Tuesday, December 1, 2009
I'm ready for the NLL season
My season tickets for the 2010 NLL Champion Buffalo Bandits have been ordered; American money has been taken out of the bank; and my jerseys are in my dresser waiting patiently for the call. I even had a bit of practice cheering as I encountered some Sabres fans last night after work on the short walk to the train. They noticed my Bandits hat so I joined them in some Let's Go Buffalo! chants and such. Now I only have forty some extremely long days to get through before the season starts and I'm sitting in the comforts of HSBC arena munching on their nachos.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Narrow minds amuse me
I realized today how much I enjoy wearing junior teams jerseys to work, especially those that resemble NHL teams. For those unfamiliar with Toronto, most Torontonians only care about professional teams and sports and can only assocaite with professional sports teams even though some amateur sports are more entertaining (there are those who enjoy the semi-pro and even amateur sports but from my experience these people are in the vast minority in Toronto).
Today I am wearing a Kitchener Rangers jersey and since they are (or at least were) very closely linked to the NHL Rangers, their jerseys are almost a spliting image of each other with the exception of the word Kitchener instead of New York on the shoulder emblems. But, man, am I getting a lot of looks today.
I love these narrow minded people in Toronto.
Today I am wearing a Kitchener Rangers jersey and since they are (or at least were) very closely linked to the NHL Rangers, their jerseys are almost a spliting image of each other with the exception of the word Kitchener instead of New York on the shoulder emblems. But, man, am I getting a lot of looks today.
I love these narrow minded people in Toronto.
2010 NLL season
Well, we are just a couple months away from the start of the NLL season and a couple weeks away from the start of training camps. Who will be the most improved? Who will fall to the bottom of the league? The end to our wait is in sight.
What's up with the Generals?
Just when I think the Oshawa Generals have come together as a team and are playing to their potential, they go and lose three in a row. Not to very good teams either. Last Friday they lost 2-1 to the Guelph Storm before getting manhandled by the Sarnia Sting Sunday night (6-2 loss) and then last night they lost 6-4 in Peterborough.
It is looking like it will be a long roller coaster type season for the Gens unless they can find a way to play a full 60 minutes every game. They do have some talented kids on the team but perhaps they are too young to be much of a threat this year. I'm just hoping they continue to improve and the entertainment level also continues to increase.
It is looking like it will be a long roller coaster type season for the Gens unless they can find a way to play a full 60 minutes every game. They do have some talented kids on the team but perhaps they are too young to be much of a threat this year. I'm just hoping they continue to improve and the entertainment level also continues to increase.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Mann Cup 2009
The matchup for the 2009 Mann Cup has been set and it will be a rematch of the 2008 cup final, except this year it will be played on the west coast. Is the addition of Shawn Williams enough for the Brampton Excelsiors to defend their title or will the exceptional goaltending of Matt Roik and Tyler Richards of the New Westminster Salmonbellies exact some revenge from last year? I like Brampton's odds although I haven't seen the 'bellies play this year so my opinion is totally meaningless. All games will be available for viewing for $9.95 per game so head on over to the WLA website on September 4 for game 1.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Bad luck traveller
After an unwanted hiatus from the lacrosse arena's I was able to get to the Bunker in Brampton to see the MSL seim-final series game last night. Similar to the last visit to the Powerade Centre, I was rooting against the home team and for the second time in a row, the visiting team failed to show up (this time almost literally).
After a late arrival into Brampton, the St Regis Indians had less than fifteen minutes to warm up. A far cry from the usual double warmups they get. When the game began it was apparent the short warmup was not enough to shake out the bus legs. Thanks to some decent saves by the Indians netminder and some even better saves by the posts behind him, the game was kept close in the first period. In the second, the Excelsiors pounced and took an 8-2 lead into the second intermission. I had to leave before it was over since my son was rather tired (it was a couple hours past his bedtime) but it didn't get much better for the visitors. 13-3 was the final score.
The previous game I ended up at the Powerade Centre for, the Peterborough Lakers' offense failed to show up and dropped their second to last regular season game 7-6. I was hoping for a Peterborough win only because that would have put a St Regis / Brooklin first round matchup a little closer to happening. That would have meant I could have seen Tavares without the hour drive. The only other game I travelled for this year was the Green Gaels ugly 4-1 loss in Newmarket.
I am beginning to think that I bring bad luck to these teams. Good thing the season is almost over then. Maybe I should just start rooting for the Excelsiors when I go there...
After a late arrival into Brampton, the St Regis Indians had less than fifteen minutes to warm up. A far cry from the usual double warmups they get. When the game began it was apparent the short warmup was not enough to shake out the bus legs. Thanks to some decent saves by the Indians netminder and some even better saves by the posts behind him, the game was kept close in the first period. In the second, the Excelsiors pounced and took an 8-2 lead into the second intermission. I had to leave before it was over since my son was rather tired (it was a couple hours past his bedtime) but it didn't get much better for the visitors. 13-3 was the final score.
The previous game I ended up at the Powerade Centre for, the Peterborough Lakers' offense failed to show up and dropped their second to last regular season game 7-6. I was hoping for a Peterborough win only because that would have put a St Regis / Brooklin first round matchup a little closer to happening. That would have meant I could have seen Tavares without the hour drive. The only other game I travelled for this year was the Green Gaels ugly 4-1 loss in Newmarket.
I am beginning to think that I bring bad luck to these teams. Good thing the season is almost over then. Maybe I should just start rooting for the Excelsiors when I go there...
NLL needs change in philosophy
With the National Lacrosse League’s third attempt at the Big Apple ending in failure, it is time for the league to come to terms with their position in the world of sports, that being a minor sports league. For those not yet in the know, the NLL announced yesterday that the Titans franchise will move from New York to Orlando, Florida for the upcoming 2010 season. This is the third announcement involving NLL franchises this off season after the Portland Lumberjax announced they were ceasing operations and the San Jose Stealth announced their relocation to Everett, WA.
Until the NLL has some franchise stability, this league will never gain the long sought after major league status. Sure it is a professional league but it is constantly compared to the Arena Football League and that league recently announced it is suspending operations indefinitely. The time has come (if it hasn’t been here for a few years already) for the NLL to focus on solidifying the current franchises and showing the media and the public that the league is sustainable. Once that happens then maybe, just maybe, ESPN2 and TSN2 (or Sportsnet) will pick up some games again. After the league gets some solid nationwide exposure throughout Canada and the US, then, and only then, should the league consider expanding. The league is currently on the path to joining the AFL in the land of invalid sports leagues and lacrosse is too good for that.
Until the NLL has some franchise stability, this league will never gain the long sought after major league status. Sure it is a professional league but it is constantly compared to the Arena Football League and that league recently announced it is suspending operations indefinitely. The time has come (if it hasn’t been here for a few years already) for the NLL to focus on solidifying the current franchises and showing the media and the public that the league is sustainable. Once that happens then maybe, just maybe, ESPN2 and TSN2 (or Sportsnet) will pick up some games again. After the league gets some solid nationwide exposure throughout Canada and the US, then, and only then, should the league consider expanding. The league is currently on the path to joining the AFL in the land of invalid sports leagues and lacrosse is too good for that.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
None too impressed!
Last Friday night I rushed home from work, skipped dinner, packed up some crackers and juice for my son, and drove an hour to Newmarket to watch the Clarington Green Gaels take on the hometown Saints.
The Gaels came out flat and scored only one goal the entire game despite getting numerous powerplays. Had it not been for the stellar goaltending of Zack Higgins, the game would have been a blowout but as it was, Newmarket had a hard time getting the ball past Higgins. Finally in the third period Newmarket pulled away with the 4-1 win. Then last night, the Gaels travelled to Markham to face the Ironheads and they scored 21 goals in a 21-5 victory. Twenty-one goals! After scoring only 1 their previous game. What the heck happened in Newmarket??? I feel cheated!
Clarington ends their regular season tomorrow night at home against Huntsville. They have already clinched first place in the Mid East Division and at 18-1, they will be the top seed in the Eastern Conference and the league for the playoffs.
The Gaels came out flat and scored only one goal the entire game despite getting numerous powerplays. Had it not been for the stellar goaltending of Zack Higgins, the game would have been a blowout but as it was, Newmarket had a hard time getting the ball past Higgins. Finally in the third period Newmarket pulled away with the 4-1 win. Then last night, the Gaels travelled to Markham to face the Ironheads and they scored 21 goals in a 21-5 victory. Twenty-one goals! After scoring only 1 their previous game. What the heck happened in Newmarket??? I feel cheated!
Clarington ends their regular season tomorrow night at home against Huntsville. They have already clinched first place in the Mid East Division and at 18-1, they will be the top seed in the Eastern Conference and the league for the playoffs.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Slow start leads to history books in Rimouski
The Windsor Spitfires started the Memorial Cup going 0-2 with a game to play against the perfect 2-0 Kelowna Rockets last Tuesday. It has been suggested that Kelowna took it easy in that game leading to a Windsor win that forced a tiebreaker game. Obviously, this will never been proven but this game gave the Spits the confidence they were in desperate need of.In the tie-breaker the OHL champion defeated the host Rimouski Oceanic 6-4 and then went on to defeat the QMJHL champion Drummondville Voltigeurs 3-2 in overtime. That led to a rematch of Kelowna versus Windsor in the final game. Windsor did not allow for any doubt as they scored on their first three shots to take a 3-0 early first period lead. They traded singles between the next two periods and the game ended 4-1 Windsor. In winning the Cup, Windsor became the first team to ever win the Memorial Cup after losing the first two games.
Despite losing some players for next year, the Spitfires could be even better. But we will let them all enjoy the win for the next couple months.
As for the tournament awards, Taylor Hall, Windsor Spitfires, was named tournament MVP, Jamie Benn, Kelowna Rockets, was the tournaments Top Scorer, Yannick Riendeau, Drummondville Voltigeurs, was the Most Sportsmanlike and Marco Cousineau, Drummondville Voltigeurs, was the Most Outstanding Goaltender. Finally, the all-star team is as follows:
Forward – Taylor Hall, Windsor Spitfires
Forward – Jamie Benn, Kelowna Rockets
Forward – Patrice Cormier, Rimouski Oceanic
Defence – Ryan Ellis, Windsor Spitfires
Defence – Tyler Myers, Kelowna Rockets
Goaltender – Marco Cousineau, Drummondville Voltigeurs
Friday, May 15, 2009
2009 Champion's Cup final
Well it is finally here, the 2009 Champion’s Cup final. The top team from the West (and the league overall) will host the top team from the East in a one game showdown. The mighty Titans from New York will make the long trek to Calgary to face off against the home town Roughnecks. Many expected to see a rematch from the 2004 Champion’s Cup but an almost flawless defensive effort by the Titans last weekend crushed the hopes of a repeat for Banditland.
Allowing just three goals against the star-studded Bandits surely has the Titans entering the game as favourite's right? They not only defeated the defending champs but embarrassed them. Lead by Casey Powell on offense and Matt Vinc on defense, with a hard working supporting cast, these Titans really live up to their team name but are still considered underdogs for tonight’s game. Do they care? Not at all. They will play a full 60 minutes and give the Roughnecks all they can handle. Will that be enough to hoist their first cup? I personally don’t think they will be able to contain all the offensive threats Calgary has.
Calgary has been the top team in the league since game one. They easily handled their two playoff opponents so far and look to do the same to the Titans. Coming in as favourites, Calgary is looking to Matt King to continue his stellar play between the pipes. Even with their many offensive threats (Sanderson, Kelusky, Toth…), the Roughnecks will also need to put in a solid 60 minutes if they plan on raising a second banner to the rafters. They will also be out to prove a point as not a single player from the Roughnecks earned any end of year hardware (except their coach) despite being the top team all year. They only had one player named to the all-pro teams and that was Josh Sanderson for the second team.
Along with Casey Powell, I think containing Brendan Mundorf and Jordan Hall will be key to Calgary’s victory. Calgary plays as a team and will come back hard if they get down early. In the end Calgary will prevail in a close game. The score at the end may not reflect how close this game will be.
Allowing just three goals against the star-studded Bandits surely has the Titans entering the game as favourite's right? They not only defeated the defending champs but embarrassed them. Lead by Casey Powell on offense and Matt Vinc on defense, with a hard working supporting cast, these Titans really live up to their team name but are still considered underdogs for tonight’s game. Do they care? Not at all. They will play a full 60 minutes and give the Roughnecks all they can handle. Will that be enough to hoist their first cup? I personally don’t think they will be able to contain all the offensive threats Calgary has.
Calgary has been the top team in the league since game one. They easily handled their two playoff opponents so far and look to do the same to the Titans. Coming in as favourites, Calgary is looking to Matt King to continue his stellar play between the pipes. Even with their many offensive threats (Sanderson, Kelusky, Toth…), the Roughnecks will also need to put in a solid 60 minutes if they plan on raising a second banner to the rafters. They will also be out to prove a point as not a single player from the Roughnecks earned any end of year hardware (except their coach) despite being the top team all year. They only had one player named to the all-pro teams and that was Josh Sanderson for the second team.
Along with Casey Powell, I think containing Brendan Mundorf and Jordan Hall will be key to Calgary’s victory. Calgary plays as a team and will come back hard if they get down early. In the end Calgary will prevail in a close game. The score at the end may not reflect how close this game will be.
Big night for sports
Not only is today a Friday before a long weekend but it is also a big day for sports. The 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup gets underway tonight in Rimouski when the Kelowna Rockets take on the host Oceanic. The 2009 season of Major League Lacrosse also begins tonight in Annapolis as the Toronto Nationals take on the Washington Bayhawks in Toronto’s first MLL game. Perhaps the biggest game of the night will be the National Lacrosse League’s Champion’s Cup final in Calgary between the Roughnecks and the visiting New York Titans. As an added bonus for those in the Durham region, Rogers TV will be broadcasting the Clarington Green Gaels at Newmarket Saints lacrosse game this evening starting at 8:00 PM.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
2009 Memorial Cup teams are set
The Calgary Hitmen got through the first three rounds of the Western Hockey League playoffs without losing a single game. Then they met up with the Kelowna Rockets in the Ed Chynoweth Cup final series and lost the first three games. The Rockets couldn’t complete the sweep in game four but finally won the series in overtime in game 6 in front of their home fans. Kelowna swept the first round before winning both the next two series four games to two.
The Ontario Hockey League was a showdown between the top team in the league, the Windsor Spitfires, and the second place team from the East division, the Brampton Battalion. It took Brampton until the second period of game two to wake up and play well but they were simply over matched in this series. Windsor won game five in overtime to win the J Ross Robertson Cup. Windsor defeated the Owen Sound Attack, Plymouth Whalers and London Knights to reach the final series while Brampton downed Peterborough, Mississauga Majors, and Belleville Bulls before losing to Windsor.
Over in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, the Drummondville Voltigeurs swept the first three series before meeting a challenge in the final series against the Shawinigan Cataractes. In game two of the finals, Drummondville suffered their first loss in the playoffs but managed to rebound and win the series and the President Cup in seven games. Drummondville will now head to the Memorial Cup just one year after finishing in last place in the league.
The 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup begins this Friday night as the Kelowna Rockets take on the host Rimouski Oceanic. The full schedule is as follows (times in EDT):
Friday, May 15 – WHL vs HOST, 7:00 pm
Saturday, May 16 – QMJHL vs OHL, 4:30 pm
Sunday, May 17 – HOST vs OHL, 4:30 pm
Monday, May 18 – QMJHL vs WHL, 7:00 pm
Tuesday, May 19 – OHL vs WHL, 7:00 pm
Wednesday, May 20 – HOST vs QMJHL, 7:00 pm
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Thursday, May 21 – Tie-breaker (if necessary), 7:00 pm
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Friday, May 22 – SEMI-FINAL, 7:00 pm
Sunday, May 24 – CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL, 4:30 pm
The Ontario Hockey League was a showdown between the top team in the league, the Windsor Spitfires, and the second place team from the East division, the Brampton Battalion. It took Brampton until the second period of game two to wake up and play well but they were simply over matched in this series. Windsor won game five in overtime to win the J Ross Robertson Cup. Windsor defeated the Owen Sound Attack, Plymouth Whalers and London Knights to reach the final series while Brampton downed Peterborough, Mississauga Majors, and Belleville Bulls before losing to Windsor.
Over in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, the Drummondville Voltigeurs swept the first three series before meeting a challenge in the final series against the Shawinigan Cataractes. In game two of the finals, Drummondville suffered their first loss in the playoffs but managed to rebound and win the series and the President Cup in seven games. Drummondville will now head to the Memorial Cup just one year after finishing in last place in the league.
The 2009 MasterCard Memorial Cup begins this Friday night as the Kelowna Rockets take on the host Rimouski Oceanic. The full schedule is as follows (times in EDT):
Friday, May 15 – WHL vs HOST, 7:00 pm
Saturday, May 16 – QMJHL vs OHL, 4:30 pm
Sunday, May 17 – HOST vs OHL, 4:30 pm
Monday, May 18 – QMJHL vs WHL, 7:00 pm
Tuesday, May 19 – OHL vs WHL, 7:00 pm
Wednesday, May 20 – HOST vs QMJHL, 7:00 pm
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Thursday, May 21 – Tie-breaker (if necessary), 7:00 pm
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Friday, May 22 – SEMI-FINAL, 7:00 pm
Sunday, May 24 – CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL, 4:30 pm
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Tonight is the season!
For any Toronto Blue Jays fan, tonight is the season for the Jays. A win tonight and the fans will think this season was a success. Tonight the Jays not only face the Yankees for the first time this season but their ace, Roy Halladay, takes to the mound against the villified A.J. Burnett. The same Burnett who left the Jays nest in the off season in search of more money. It has the making of a great game. Let's hope the idiots stay home so the real fans can enjoy this encounter.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
NLL division finals
Since I got one of my first round predictions wrong, I figure I should revise my comments on the rest of the playoffs. Well, actually, all comments are still relevant except for the one series. Rochester was unable to finish the upset and in the last five minutes allowed New York (or should I say Casey Powell) to come back to tie the game and eventually lose it in overtime.
So with Rochester loss, New York Titans advance to the East division final to host the Buffalo Bandits. Buffalo lost both meetings against New York this year, which is why the Titans get to host this game and not Buffalo, all else being equal. In my opinion, Buffalo is the better team in this game although New York has played more consistently this year. I think Buffalo is going to avenge their two regular season losses in a big way. Bandits by a few, let’s say four.
I would like to see San Jose defeat Calgary so I can attend another game live but I think Calgary will pull out the win in the West final. Still backing the Bandits in the Cup final too, in overtime. With luck the Bandits will have the East final well in hand early so I can flip to the West final at the start. Otherwise, it’s split screen for me.
So with Rochester loss, New York Titans advance to the East division final to host the Buffalo Bandits. Buffalo lost both meetings against New York this year, which is why the Titans get to host this game and not Buffalo, all else being equal. In my opinion, Buffalo is the better team in this game although New York has played more consistently this year. I think Buffalo is going to avenge their two regular season losses in a big way. Bandits by a few, let’s say four.
I would like to see San Jose defeat Calgary so I can attend another game live but I think Calgary will pull out the win in the West final. Still backing the Bandits in the Cup final too, in overtime. With luck the Bandits will have the East final well in hand early so I can flip to the West final at the start. Otherwise, it’s split screen for me.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Battalion shelled by Spitfires
The Windsor Spitfires put a licking on the Brampton Battalion in game one of the OHL Championship Series. The game started out close but then they dropped the puck. Okay so it was close for a few minutes in the first period as the game was tied 1-1 at one point. By the time the first was over, Windsor had a commanding 4-1 lead. That lead was extended to 6-1 after two and 10-1 by the end of the game.
Leading the Spitfires was Justin Shugg with a hat trick, Andrei Loktionov with two goals and an assist and both Taylor Hall and Adam Henrique with one goal and two assists. Josh Day got the lone goal for the Battalion.
Both teams head to The Bunker in Brampton on Friday night where the home tropps will look to even the series. After the shelling they took last night, I expect Friday's game to be very spirited and Brampton to come out hungry and show all they belong in this series. It should be a fun game anyhow as I will be in attendance for my first hockey game in The Bunker. You won't catch me wearing one of those ugly Battalion jerseys but I will be cheering for the home team. Bring the J Ross Robertson Cup back to the East!
Leading the Spitfires was Justin Shugg with a hat trick, Andrei Loktionov with two goals and an assist and both Taylor Hall and Adam Henrique with one goal and two assists. Josh Day got the lone goal for the Battalion.
Both teams head to The Bunker in Brampton on Friday night where the home tropps will look to even the series. After the shelling they took last night, I expect Friday's game to be very spirited and Brampton to come out hungry and show all they belong in this series. It should be a fun game anyhow as I will be in attendance for my first hockey game in The Bunker. You won't catch me wearing one of those ugly Battalion jerseys but I will be cheering for the home team. Bring the J Ross Robertson Cup back to the East!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Look quick!
The Toronto Blue Jays are the best team in Major League Baseball.
It may not last long though because the Boston Red Sox are only a game behind them and are on fire. They have just swept a nine game homestead and have won ten straight. A couple easy series coming up for the birds so they should hold onto the division lead heading into May.
It may not last long though because the Boston Red Sox are only a game behind them and are on fire. They have just swept a nine game homestead and have won ten straight. A couple easy series coming up for the birds so they should hold onto the division lead heading into May.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Ready for NLL playoffs
Well we’re a week and a half away from the NLL playoffs and I can’t wait for the drive down the QEW on May 2. The East division finished with a three way tie for first once again but due to tiebreakers, the Bandits (10-6) finished 2nd. New York (10-6) finished on top with Boston (10-6) in third and Rochester (7-9) in a distant fourth. Out West, the Roughnecks of Calgary topped the league with a 12-4 record while Portland (9-7) finished in second, San Jose (7-9) in third and Colorado (7-9) barely made the fourth spot.
Calgary, with top seed, will look to host their second Champions Cup but will have to win two games starting with the always tough Colorado team. Portland’s quest for a return trip to the finals starts with a home game against San Jose. Buffalo will seek revenge against Boston at the HSBC while their western New York rivals travel to the big city to take on the New York Titans. All eight teams have the ability to win and no team is guaranteed the win so these four games should be awesome to watch.
Starting in the East:
New York plays a consistent game, putting in sixty hard minutes every game so they could earn the respect of the league this year with a Champions Cup final appearance. Rochester finished fourth but came on strong late in the season and are still mad they missed the playoffs last year for the first time in franchise history. If the ‘time’ is right Rochester could steal the first round game from New York but I don’t think they can get by either Boston or Buffalo. Buffalo is perhaps the best team in the East but has lacked the consistency this year. They started strong, as in unbeatable, but have gone 5-6 since then with 4 of those losses to the other top teams in the East. Boston has already surpassed most people’s expectations this season. I thought they’d do okay but tied for first in the East, not a chance. If Cosmo stands on his head and the team in front of him plays like they have been, they could easily find themselves in the finals. Any team with Dan Dawson on it can’t be ruled out come playoff time.
Over in the West:
The West is Calgary’s to lose. They are solid from front to back, including both tenders. If their record gets to their heads, Colorado will be there to pull them back out of the clouds. I am not giving Colorado much chance but I am also not writing them off. Portland is looking to give their fans one more reason to get their season tickets for next year with a home victory. Not sure if the win will help but it can’t hurt. Difference in the game will be Matt Disher for the Jax and Colin Doyle for the Stealth. San Jose has a potent offence that can steal this game and Colin Doyle has the ability to take control of this game with rookie Rhys Duch as his more than able sidekick.
This is now a god time for my picks but I am hesitant to make them, anything can happen in one game. Alright, here goes but I reserve the right to change my picks for games after the first round when I get the first round wrong.
Division Semi-finals:
- Colorado at Calgary - May 3: Calgary, they are too good to lose so early in the playoffs.
- San Jose at Portland - May 1: San Jose, double D’s will lead the Stealth to victory
- Rochester at New York - May 1: Rochester, O’Toole and Williams will have great games
- Boston at Buffalo - May 2: Buffalo, they are not going to lose three games in a row, JT will ensure that.
Division Finals:
- San Jose at Calgary - Calgary, but in a close one; Sanderson and Doyle will compete for top points
- Rochester at Buffalo - Buffalo, the place will be electric giving the Bandits the extra edge (I like to think Bandit fans can actually make a difference)
Champions Cup:
- Buffalo at Calgary - Buffalo, in overtime. Payback for the loss in 2004, it’s that simple. If only I had more vacation time…and money…I’d be back in the saddle(dome) again.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
The Second Round
Well, Brian Kilrea's coaching career in the OHL is officially over. The Niagara IceDogs came back from a two goal deficit in the third period of Tuesday night's game to beat the 67's in overtime. That was the only series to make it the full seven games. Other teams to win were Brampton in four games, Belleville in six and Mississauga in five from the East and Windsor in four, London in five, Saginaw in four and Plymouth in five from the West.
With all four conference semi finals beginning tonight, it is a good time to make my predictions on them. Let's see if I can do better than the first round.
Belleville vs Niagara - Belleville's inconsistency continues to plague them as they needed six games to defeat the Sudbury Wolves. To be fair some of that could be due to the lengthy travel between the two cities. Niagara is coming off an emotional win in game seven on the road. This is an interesting match up as the teams will go from the largest ice surface in the league in Belleville to the smallest ice in Niagara. Belleville will take game one but the series will go six before the Bulls advance.
Brampton vs Mississauga - Travel is almost non existent in this series and both teams should be well rested as neither team had much trouble in the first round. Mississauga will give Brampton a good challenge but Brampton is too good and will win the series in six.
Windsor vs Plymouth - Both teams had an easy time in round one and should also be well rested. Windsor will look for another sweep but I think the Whalers will steal a game. Spitfires in five.
London vs Saginaw - This series will be a lot closer than the Knights will want it to be but will be a good test for the Conference final against Windsor. London has too many good players, several with big game experience, to lose at this point and will edge out the Spirit in a thrilling seven game series. This series will be a good lead into the remaining rounds.
With all four conference semi finals beginning tonight, it is a good time to make my predictions on them. Let's see if I can do better than the first round.
Belleville vs Niagara - Belleville's inconsistency continues to plague them as they needed six games to defeat the Sudbury Wolves. To be fair some of that could be due to the lengthy travel between the two cities. Niagara is coming off an emotional win in game seven on the road. This is an interesting match up as the teams will go from the largest ice surface in the league in Belleville to the smallest ice in Niagara. Belleville will take game one but the series will go six before the Bulls advance.
Brampton vs Mississauga - Travel is almost non existent in this series and both teams should be well rested as neither team had much trouble in the first round. Mississauga will give Brampton a good challenge but Brampton is too good and will win the series in six.
Windsor vs Plymouth - Both teams had an easy time in round one and should also be well rested. Windsor will look for another sweep but I think the Whalers will steal a game. Spitfires in five.
London vs Saginaw - This series will be a lot closer than the Knights will want it to be but will be a good test for the Conference final against Windsor. London has too many good players, several with big game experience, to lose at this point and will edge out the Spirit in a thrilling seven game series. This series will be a good lead into the remaining rounds.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Changing Gears
One week today the Rogers Centre will be full for the only time this MLB season as the Toronto Blue Jays open their 2009 schedule against their one time rival Detroit Tigers. The anticipation of a horrible season should not prevent the stadium from filling on opening day as it seemingly always does. It may take until the weekend to double the yearly attendance figures though.
Titans Steal One From The Bandits
The HSBC crowd was pumped, the announcer was pumped, the bag piper was pumped and even the anthem singer seemed to have a little extra enthusiasm prior to the New York Titans / Buffalo Bandits lacrosse game Saturday night. Unfortunately for the 18,550 in attendance, the Buffalo Bandits enthusiasm left quickly.
Despite getting off 59 shots on net, the Bandits were only able to score nine times as they lost 11-9 to the Titans. All game long the Titans defence caused the Bandits some off-ball struggles but the Bandits were still able to get several quality scoring chances on drives to the net. Those chances ended up missing the net, hitting iron or sucked into the mid-section of New York’s net minder Matt Vinc. During the first quarter Vinc added to the Bandits frustrations by turning aside several sure goals.
Coupled with the lack of emotion displayed by the Bandits was the inability of their defence to stop New York when the momentum shifted to the home side. Twice the Bandits had two goal runs that gave them momentum but each time the Titans responded by netting the next goal and killing all momentum. Some of this poor play rests at the feet of the Bandits goalie, Mike Thompson, as he let several long shots get past him (the type of shots that are meant to generate rebounds as the shot clock nears zero) and allowed some other goals that he should not have.
New York deserves some credit for the win as well. They did play hard the whole game and did not let the crowd and the momentum shifts affect their play. They did not look seem to control the ball as long as Buffalo did this game but they did enough to get the win. As mentioned earlier, Vinc made several spectacular saves in the opening quarter that kept the Titans in the game, including turning away some breakaway chances by the Bandits. The Titans played the full sixty minutes and that is the reason they won, it’s as simple as that.
Next game for Buffalo is the highly anticipated match up Saturday night against the Boston Blazers while the Titans have a home and home with Philadelphia next weekend. A sweep by New York would solidify a playoff spot for them and all but eliminate Philadelphia from the post season. A New York sweep would also give Buffalo a spot in the playoffs regardless of how they do in Boston.
Despite getting off 59 shots on net, the Bandits were only able to score nine times as they lost 11-9 to the Titans. All game long the Titans defence caused the Bandits some off-ball struggles but the Bandits were still able to get several quality scoring chances on drives to the net. Those chances ended up missing the net, hitting iron or sucked into the mid-section of New York’s net minder Matt Vinc. During the first quarter Vinc added to the Bandits frustrations by turning aside several sure goals.
Coupled with the lack of emotion displayed by the Bandits was the inability of their defence to stop New York when the momentum shifted to the home side. Twice the Bandits had two goal runs that gave them momentum but each time the Titans responded by netting the next goal and killing all momentum. Some of this poor play rests at the feet of the Bandits goalie, Mike Thompson, as he let several long shots get past him (the type of shots that are meant to generate rebounds as the shot clock nears zero) and allowed some other goals that he should not have.
New York deserves some credit for the win as well. They did play hard the whole game and did not let the crowd and the momentum shifts affect their play. They did not look seem to control the ball as long as Buffalo did this game but they did enough to get the win. As mentioned earlier, Vinc made several spectacular saves in the opening quarter that kept the Titans in the game, including turning away some breakaway chances by the Bandits. The Titans played the full sixty minutes and that is the reason they won, it’s as simple as that.
Next game for Buffalo is the highly anticipated match up Saturday night against the Boston Blazers while the Titans have a home and home with Philadelphia next weekend. A sweep by New York would solidify a playoff spot for them and all but eliminate Philadelphia from the post season. A New York sweep would also give Buffalo a spot in the playoffs regardless of how they do in Boston.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Montour Should Be Number 1 For Bandits
After a record tying performance last weekend against the Portland Lumberjax, will Ken Montour get the starting goaltender tag for the Buffalo Bandits and start this weekend’s game against the Titans?
At the beginning of the season coach Darris Kilgour stated he would use his two goalies on a rotating basis. If this is still the case after the career game, Montour will find himself watching Mike Thompson take to the field Saturday night. When given the chance, Thompson has not looked sharp and left his last two starts early in the first half. He might have been the victim of poor defence in front of him but he still hasn’t played like the Bandits need him to. Montour on the other hand has performed admirably. Montour sits atop the league in wins (tied with Anthony Cosmo of Boston), goals against average with an insane 9.04 and save percentage with .818. He has played the seventh most minutes and has allowed the fewest goals for those goalies that played over 400 minutes (8th among goalies that played more than 200 minutes).
Montour is in the running for Goalie of the Year honours and the only thing that would get in his way from achieving this honour is not getting enough minutes. Coach Kilgour needs to ensure his team is fully ready for the playoffs so that likely means giving Mikey some starts. Banditland can only hope that Thompson steps up like he can; he did backstop Buffalo to a Champion’s Cup win last year. For all I know this decision might already be made but I have not found any news of it.
At the beginning of the season coach Darris Kilgour stated he would use his two goalies on a rotating basis. If this is still the case after the career game, Montour will find himself watching Mike Thompson take to the field Saturday night. When given the chance, Thompson has not looked sharp and left his last two starts early in the first half. He might have been the victim of poor defence in front of him but he still hasn’t played like the Bandits need him to. Montour on the other hand has performed admirably. Montour sits atop the league in wins (tied with Anthony Cosmo of Boston), goals against average with an insane 9.04 and save percentage with .818. He has played the seventh most minutes and has allowed the fewest goals for those goalies that played over 400 minutes (8th among goalies that played more than 200 minutes).
Montour is in the running for Goalie of the Year honours and the only thing that would get in his way from achieving this honour is not getting enough minutes. Coach Kilgour needs to ensure his team is fully ready for the playoffs so that likely means giving Mikey some starts. Banditland can only hope that Thompson steps up like he can; he did backstop Buffalo to a Champion’s Cup win last year. For all I know this decision might already be made but I have not found any news of it.
My Thoughts On Buying Jerseys
It's Friday and I can't really get into my work so here are my thoughts on buying team jerseys.
I have recently developed an addiction for owning team jerseys but most of the jerseys I own are blanks (i.e. have no number or name on the back). Not only are blank jerseys less expensive up front than their named counterparts, they also provide a longer wear as well. With blank jerseys, one does not have to worry if their favourite player gets traded or retires. Wearing the name of a retired player on one's back just makes them look outdated and cheap, unless that player happens to be one of the games greats or had a major impact on the game or team.
So with this in mind I thought long and hard before buying the new third jersey for the Bandits. This jersey needs a name and number on the back to make it complete; it just doesn't look right left blank. I was at odds with which player I should get stitched on the back when I realized the loophole that existed. John Tavares is one of, if not the greatest lacrosse players ever and he conveniently plays for the Bandits. Although Steenhuis is more suited to the bright orange jersey, due to longevity and his great skills, Tavares' name now adorns the back of my jersey resting above his number 11. After all, it will save me from looking cheap or buying a new jersey in a few years when/if Tavares retires.
I have recently developed an addiction for owning team jerseys but most of the jerseys I own are blanks (i.e. have no number or name on the back). Not only are blank jerseys less expensive up front than their named counterparts, they also provide a longer wear as well. With blank jerseys, one does not have to worry if their favourite player gets traded or retires. Wearing the name of a retired player on one's back just makes them look outdated and cheap, unless that player happens to be one of the games greats or had a major impact on the game or team.
So with this in mind I thought long and hard before buying the new third jersey for the Bandits. This jersey needs a name and number on the back to make it complete; it just doesn't look right left blank. I was at odds with which player I should get stitched on the back when I realized the loophole that existed. John Tavares is one of, if not the greatest lacrosse players ever and he conveniently plays for the Bandits. Although Steenhuis is more suited to the bright orange jersey, due to longevity and his great skills, Tavares' name now adorns the back of my jersey resting above his number 11. After all, it will save me from looking cheap or buying a new jersey in a few years when/if Tavares retires.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Not To Get Ahead Of Ourselves, But…
There is still a lot of lacrosse to be played in this National Lacrosse League season but the two top teams are close to earning a spot in the playoffs. Calgary is leading the West division with eight wins while Buffalo is leading the East division with eight wins as well. Both teams can clinch a playoff spot with three victories and coincidentally, each team has three games remaining at home where they each team has lost just once.
Two wins coupled with a Rochester loss will put Buffalo in the playoffs. Boston needs three wins with a Rochester loss to enter the playoffs in their first season since their return to the NLL. New York has a two game lead on the basement dwellers in the East and play Philadelphia twice down the stretch so they have a chance to greatly influence the final standings. Unfortunately for them they also play Buffalo twice. Checking out the upcoming schedule, if both Boston and Buffalo win this coming weekend (March 27-29), then Buffalo can clinch a playoff spot by defeating the Blazers on April 4th, adding more fuel to an already heavily anticipated battle.
Over in the West, Calgary can clinch a playoff spot this weekend by beating Toronto at home Friday and Minnesota on the road Saturday. The rest of the teams are jammed together, however; Portland has two games in hand on those teams so they could pull ahead of the pack by winning both games. Too bad for them one of those games in hand is against the division leading Roughnecks.
The remaining games should make for some great entertainment as teams try to reach the playoffs. Will Edmonton finally click and string enough wins together? Will Rochester or Toronto return to the playoffs after their one year hiatus from postseason? Can Philadelphia battle through their injuries to make a serious run? Will Boston continue their improbable season and take first in the East? Will Portland continue to impress and make it to the finals for a second year in a row after many dismissed them before the start of the season? The most important question for this writer, will the Buffalo Bandits repeat as champions?
UPDATE: Apparently Buffalo can clinch a playoff berth this weekend too. Check out this article on NLL.com
Two wins coupled with a Rochester loss will put Buffalo in the playoffs. Boston needs three wins with a Rochester loss to enter the playoffs in their first season since their return to the NLL. New York has a two game lead on the basement dwellers in the East and play Philadelphia twice down the stretch so they have a chance to greatly influence the final standings. Unfortunately for them they also play Buffalo twice. Checking out the upcoming schedule, if both Boston and Buffalo win this coming weekend (March 27-29), then Buffalo can clinch a playoff spot by defeating the Blazers on April 4th, adding more fuel to an already heavily anticipated battle.
Over in the West, Calgary can clinch a playoff spot this weekend by beating Toronto at home Friday and Minnesota on the road Saturday. The rest of the teams are jammed together, however; Portland has two games in hand on those teams so they could pull ahead of the pack by winning both games. Too bad for them one of those games in hand is against the division leading Roughnecks.
The remaining games should make for some great entertainment as teams try to reach the playoffs. Will Edmonton finally click and string enough wins together? Will Rochester or Toronto return to the playoffs after their one year hiatus from postseason? Can Philadelphia battle through their injuries to make a serious run? Will Boston continue their improbable season and take first in the East? Will Portland continue to impress and make it to the finals for a second year in a row after many dismissed them before the start of the season? The most important question for this writer, will the Buffalo Bandits repeat as champions?
UPDATE: Apparently Buffalo can clinch a playoff berth this weekend too. Check out this article on NLL.com
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Another Dominant Win By The Bandits
On Saturday evening the Portland Lumberjax entered HSBC Arena in Buffalo looking to avenge their 14-13 loss in last years Champion’s Cup final. Portland was coming off three weeks rest (and limited playing time in the past two months) while the host Buffalo Bandits was coming off their first two game losing streak of the season. With Portland playing better than a lot of people expected of them this season and the Bandits on top in the East, this game promised to be a great one. And it didn’t disappoint, at least for the first half anyhow.
The Bandits wasted little time getting on the scoreboard as Mark Steenhuis’ first shot of the game beat Matt Disher just 13 seconds into the first quarter causing Banditland to erupt. Portland quieted the crowd just over two minutes later as Tim Campeau’s shot found it’s way past Ken Montour. The next twenty-seven and a half minutes saw some great lacrosse on display. There were a lot of big hits, mostly thrown from the Bandits, some big saves from both ends and some excellent off ball battles. Buffalo emerged from the first half with a 5-3 lead.
Quarter three was a continuation of the first half until Portland gave into their frustration and got into penalty trouble. Three straight penalties, one a five minute major, three straight powerplay goals by the Bandits and the Lumberjax were down 8-4 with just under twenty minutes to play. Portland relieved some of their frustration after Buffalo’s ninth goal as Brodie Merrill squared off with Brandon Francis and big 6-10 David Morgan danced with Billy Dee Smith. Portland gained no energy or momentum from the skirmishes and Buffalo went on to score five goals in the last quarter for a 14-4 victory.
John Tavares (4G,3A) led all scorers with seven points while teammates Mark Steenhuis (1,5) and Cory Bomberry (3,3) had six apiece. Sean Greenhalgh (2,2) and Mike Accursi (1,3) had four points and Roger Vyse scored the other two goals. Ken Montour made 34 saves in net while earning a Bandits record for fewest goals allowed in a game. For Portland, five players had two points each: Tim Campeau (1,1), Brodie Merrill (0,2), Derek Malawsky (1,1), Ryan Powell (0,2) and Cory Conway (1,1). Peter Morgan scored a single goal.
Portland has a home and home series with San Jose next weekend while Buffalo hosts New York Saturday night.
The Bandits wasted little time getting on the scoreboard as Mark Steenhuis’ first shot of the game beat Matt Disher just 13 seconds into the first quarter causing Banditland to erupt. Portland quieted the crowd just over two minutes later as Tim Campeau’s shot found it’s way past Ken Montour. The next twenty-seven and a half minutes saw some great lacrosse on display. There were a lot of big hits, mostly thrown from the Bandits, some big saves from both ends and some excellent off ball battles. Buffalo emerged from the first half with a 5-3 lead.
Quarter three was a continuation of the first half until Portland gave into their frustration and got into penalty trouble. Three straight penalties, one a five minute major, three straight powerplay goals by the Bandits and the Lumberjax were down 8-4 with just under twenty minutes to play. Portland relieved some of their frustration after Buffalo’s ninth goal as Brodie Merrill squared off with Brandon Francis and big 6-10 David Morgan danced with Billy Dee Smith. Portland gained no energy or momentum from the skirmishes and Buffalo went on to score five goals in the last quarter for a 14-4 victory.
John Tavares (4G,3A) led all scorers with seven points while teammates Mark Steenhuis (1,5) and Cory Bomberry (3,3) had six apiece. Sean Greenhalgh (2,2) and Mike Accursi (1,3) had four points and Roger Vyse scored the other two goals. Ken Montour made 34 saves in net while earning a Bandits record for fewest goals allowed in a game. For Portland, five players had two points each: Tim Campeau (1,1), Brodie Merrill (0,2), Derek Malawsky (1,1), Ryan Powell (0,2) and Cory Conway (1,1). Peter Morgan scored a single goal.
Portland has a home and home series with San Jose next weekend while Buffalo hosts New York Saturday night.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
2009 OHL Playoffs Begin Tonight
The road to Rimouski begins tonight for the Ontario Hockey League as Owen Sound travels to Windsor and Sudbury enters the large confines of the Yardmen Arena in Belleville. Since I've got nothing better to do with my time, I am going to make some predictions for the OHL playoffs.
Western Conference:
8. Owen Sound Attack vs. 1. Windsor Spitfires - Windsor in four straight. Windsor is that good and the Sound is really that bad.
7. Erie Otters vs. 2. London Knights - London in five. I think overconfidence will cost the Knights a game but coach Hunter will make sure it doesn't happen a second time.
6. Guelph Storm vs. 3. Saginaw Spirit - Saginaw in five. Guelph plays hard and that hard work will result in a win but Saginaw is the team that I feel can upset London in round two and give Windsor a tough go for the West title.
5. Sarnia Sting vs. 4. Plymouth Whalers - Plymouth in six. These teams finished close in the standings and this will be a battle but the Sting just don't have it this year.
Eastern Conference:
8. Sudbury Wolves vs. 1. Belleville Bulls - Belleville in five. Belleville knows what it takes to win and should make fairly quick work of the Wovles. The lengthy travel will cost the Bulls a game.
7. Peterborough Petes vs. 2. Brampton Battalion - Brampton in six. Brampton is good but the Petes play hard and will be a good test for Brampton.
6. Niagara Ice Dogs vs. 3. Ottawa 67's - Ottawa in seven. Although Niagara all but owned Ottawa in the regular season, Kilrea will motivate his players to a series win.
5. Barrie Colts vs. 4. Mississauga Majors - Barrie in five. If the Colts can stay out of the penalty box I think this series is theirs.
Even though I predict only one upset in round 1, there will still be lots of great hockey to see. Other than the Belleville series, I can see all the Eastern series ending in upsets but Brampton is too good to lose and Ottawa is my team so I have trouble picking them to be upset in round 1. Ottawa has a team that could surprise a lot of teams and I hope they do but I see a round 2 exit for them. The Western Conference should go t the favourites, at least in the first round.
Western Conference:
8. Owen Sound Attack vs. 1. Windsor Spitfires - Windsor in four straight. Windsor is that good and the Sound is really that bad.
7. Erie Otters vs. 2. London Knights - London in five. I think overconfidence will cost the Knights a game but coach Hunter will make sure it doesn't happen a second time.
6. Guelph Storm vs. 3. Saginaw Spirit - Saginaw in five. Guelph plays hard and that hard work will result in a win but Saginaw is the team that I feel can upset London in round two and give Windsor a tough go for the West title.
5. Sarnia Sting vs. 4. Plymouth Whalers - Plymouth in six. These teams finished close in the standings and this will be a battle but the Sting just don't have it this year.
Eastern Conference:
8. Sudbury Wolves vs. 1. Belleville Bulls - Belleville in five. Belleville knows what it takes to win and should make fairly quick work of the Wovles. The lengthy travel will cost the Bulls a game.
7. Peterborough Petes vs. 2. Brampton Battalion - Brampton in six. Brampton is good but the Petes play hard and will be a good test for Brampton.
6. Niagara Ice Dogs vs. 3. Ottawa 67's - Ottawa in seven. Although Niagara all but owned Ottawa in the regular season, Kilrea will motivate his players to a series win.
5. Barrie Colts vs. 4. Mississauga Majors - Barrie in five. If the Colts can stay out of the penalty box I think this series is theirs.
Even though I predict only one upset in round 1, there will still be lots of great hockey to see. Other than the Belleville series, I can see all the Eastern series ending in upsets but Brampton is too good to lose and Ottawa is my team so I have trouble picking them to be upset in round 1. Ottawa has a team that could surprise a lot of teams and I hope they do but I see a round 2 exit for them. The Western Conference should go t the favourites, at least in the first round.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Generals Miss Playoffs
The Oshawa Generals just missed taking part in the OHL playoffs this year. They had a chance to tie Peterborough for seventh place in the Eastern conference Friday night when they travelled to Kingston but the Frontenacs wouldn't allow that. Oshawa left Kingston with a 6-3 loss but still had a chance to enter a tie break game for the final playoff spot with a win Sunday against the second seeded Brampton Battalion.
Oshawa entered Brampton with a large task at hand, a win in the bunker, and they had to do it without their top scorer, Brett Parnham, who was sidelined with an injury. They came out strong and played a solid game but every time the Generals scored a goal, the Battalion countered shortly after. A two many men penalty late in the third by Oshawa gave Brampton a chance to tie the game and send it to overtime. A misplay by a Generals player led to Kang being left alone in front of the net where the puck found him and Kang easily tied the game. Brampton eventually dashed the hopes of the Generals in the shootout.
It was a tough end to the season for the Generals without doubt. Losing their two best players obviously hurt them but there were some bright spots for them. Brett Parnham excelled once he stepped out of Tavares' shadow and De Haan had a good rookie season, even if he slowed down some once Del Zotto left. With the younger players and the draft picks received from London, Oshawa Generals hockey shows some promise for the future.
Oshawa entered Brampton with a large task at hand, a win in the bunker, and they had to do it without their top scorer, Brett Parnham, who was sidelined with an injury. They came out strong and played a solid game but every time the Generals scored a goal, the Battalion countered shortly after. A two many men penalty late in the third by Oshawa gave Brampton a chance to tie the game and send it to overtime. A misplay by a Generals player led to Kang being left alone in front of the net where the puck found him and Kang easily tied the game. Brampton eventually dashed the hopes of the Generals in the shootout.
It was a tough end to the season for the Generals without doubt. Losing their two best players obviously hurt them but there were some bright spots for them. Brett Parnham excelled once he stepped out of Tavares' shadow and De Haan had a good rookie season, even if he slowed down some once Del Zotto left. With the younger players and the draft picks received from London, Oshawa Generals hockey shows some promise for the future.
NLL Trade Deadline
Forget the day long coverage where one can tune into a sports station and watch people discuss trades that will never come to pass. The trade deadline for the National Lacrosse League gets next to no mention in the media at all. If it wasn’t for John Tavares crediting lacrosse for his sick stick skills on the ice, TSN (Canada’s sports leader) would not even know the sport existed. Sportsnet is too busy showing poker to focus on anything sports related and The Score is busy covering CIS championships (thanks for this Score, no one else will let us see these fine events). This is about the only time that the lack of television coverage for Canada’s national sport is a good thing.
So without all the hoopla and fanfare, the NLL trade deadline will quietly pass by today at 3:00PM. Will there be anything big to report this year anyhow? There are some solid players sitting on the sidelines this year due to Chicago’s departure from the league but will any of them be called on to help a team reach the playoffs? I for one don’t think anything major will take place today but I am far from an expert. Here is my team by team analysis, it likely won’t be very accurate, but I am bored and need something to waste some time with. Please comment on the areas I went wrong or areas that need more discussion. It will be interesting to see if I get any of my predictions right.
Boston Blazers: This is a new team that is surprising a lot of the experts. I think they will finish the season with what they have, since they are the third best in the league, and will make a solid run. The game on April 4 against the Bandits should be a good test for this young team.
Buffalo Bandits: Currently number two overall they are fading somewhat from the start of the season where they looked unbeatable. Currently dealing with some injuries on the back end and their offence is not producing to their level. They have the pieces to defend their title this year but if the injuries are going to persist much longer they may look for some help in the back end. Darris will have this team playing back up to their level by this weekend.
Calgary Roughnecks: Sitting on top of the league this team is looking really sharp. They are getting great goaltending, solid defence and an offensive punch reminiscent of the 2005 Toronto Rock. Josh Sanderson leads the team in scoring (4th in the league) followed closely by team captain, Tracey Kelusky and sophomore Dane Dobbie. Calgary won’t be shopping today.
Colorado Mammoth: This team is just plain underachieving. They are a good team but just haven’t gone on a run this year. Some injuries have hurt them this year but they seem to be able to play with the top teams as they defeated Calgary on Valentine’s Day. A more consistent effort should result in better results. They might be looking for that one player to help them succeed in the playoffs.
Edmonton Rush: Their season is pretty much a wash even though they are only two games out of fourth in the west. They rebuilt almost the entire team this year and just can’t get things to go their way. If anything they may look to deal Teat or Quinlan. Lindsay Plunkett hasn’t played all year due to work commitments but perhaps he can be dealt to a team in the east to get Edmonton an extra body to use this year.
Minnesota Swarm: This team had a bit of a let down early in the season but has come back to .500 with three solid games against eastern teams. A trade with Rochester a couple weeks ago might have been the spark that was needed and the past three wins have given them their confidence back too. I think this team will stick with what they have at this point.
New York Titans: Are hurting without the services of Casey Powell but he will likely return to the lineup before too long. Having this weekend off will help. They seem to be a player or two away from the next level so if they want to make a serious push this year they may be shopping for some help.
Philadelphia Wings: This team has been hurt by injuries and inconsistent play all season. A trade may be what is needed here to shake up the team a bit. The goaltending is good but unless they play to their potential every minute of every game, the Wings won’t last long in the playoffs if they get there.
Portland Lumberjax: Another team playing surprisingly well. Not many people gave Portland a chance this year after losing Dan Dawson but they have come together as a team and performed well. I don’t see management messing with this team at this point.
Rochester Knighthawks: They are starting to play like they can and with this effort continuing the rest of the year, they may surprise a team or two in the playoffs. They already made a trade to get Craig Point and Dean Hill and both have helped immensely since coming over. They look to have all the pieces they need to compete now so they likely won't be in the market today.
San Jose: This is a very young team with several players trying to adapt to the indoor game. This year, although disappointing, is a learning year for this team. I think they will stick with what they have now and try to get their rookies as much game experience as possible so they can make a run again next year.
Toronto Rock: This team has been sinking since they traded away their true captain (Colin Doyle) a few years ago. They have hit rock bottom it seems and have made moves already to try to correct things. This team needs more consistent play from everyone including their goalie Bob Watson. They did play well in Boston last weekend so maybe they have turned a corner. They have a lot of players that could help other teams so if they get the right offer I can see them trading some offense for younger and quicker defence.
So without all the hoopla and fanfare, the NLL trade deadline will quietly pass by today at 3:00PM. Will there be anything big to report this year anyhow? There are some solid players sitting on the sidelines this year due to Chicago’s departure from the league but will any of them be called on to help a team reach the playoffs? I for one don’t think anything major will take place today but I am far from an expert. Here is my team by team analysis, it likely won’t be very accurate, but I am bored and need something to waste some time with. Please comment on the areas I went wrong or areas that need more discussion. It will be interesting to see if I get any of my predictions right.
Boston Blazers: This is a new team that is surprising a lot of the experts. I think they will finish the season with what they have, since they are the third best in the league, and will make a solid run. The game on April 4 against the Bandits should be a good test for this young team.
Buffalo Bandits: Currently number two overall they are fading somewhat from the start of the season where they looked unbeatable. Currently dealing with some injuries on the back end and their offence is not producing to their level. They have the pieces to defend their title this year but if the injuries are going to persist much longer they may look for some help in the back end. Darris will have this team playing back up to their level by this weekend.
Calgary Roughnecks: Sitting on top of the league this team is looking really sharp. They are getting great goaltending, solid defence and an offensive punch reminiscent of the 2005 Toronto Rock. Josh Sanderson leads the team in scoring (4th in the league) followed closely by team captain, Tracey Kelusky and sophomore Dane Dobbie. Calgary won’t be shopping today.
Colorado Mammoth: This team is just plain underachieving. They are a good team but just haven’t gone on a run this year. Some injuries have hurt them this year but they seem to be able to play with the top teams as they defeated Calgary on Valentine’s Day. A more consistent effort should result in better results. They might be looking for that one player to help them succeed in the playoffs.
Edmonton Rush: Their season is pretty much a wash even though they are only two games out of fourth in the west. They rebuilt almost the entire team this year and just can’t get things to go their way. If anything they may look to deal Teat or Quinlan. Lindsay Plunkett hasn’t played all year due to work commitments but perhaps he can be dealt to a team in the east to get Edmonton an extra body to use this year.
Minnesota Swarm: This team had a bit of a let down early in the season but has come back to .500 with three solid games against eastern teams. A trade with Rochester a couple weeks ago might have been the spark that was needed and the past three wins have given them their confidence back too. I think this team will stick with what they have at this point.
New York Titans: Are hurting without the services of Casey Powell but he will likely return to the lineup before too long. Having this weekend off will help. They seem to be a player or two away from the next level so if they want to make a serious push this year they may be shopping for some help.
Philadelphia Wings: This team has been hurt by injuries and inconsistent play all season. A trade may be what is needed here to shake up the team a bit. The goaltending is good but unless they play to their potential every minute of every game, the Wings won’t last long in the playoffs if they get there.
Portland Lumberjax: Another team playing surprisingly well. Not many people gave Portland a chance this year after losing Dan Dawson but they have come together as a team and performed well. I don’t see management messing with this team at this point.
Rochester Knighthawks: They are starting to play like they can and with this effort continuing the rest of the year, they may surprise a team or two in the playoffs. They already made a trade to get Craig Point and Dean Hill and both have helped immensely since coming over. They look to have all the pieces they need to compete now so they likely won't be in the market today.
San Jose: This is a very young team with several players trying to adapt to the indoor game. This year, although disappointing, is a learning year for this team. I think they will stick with what they have now and try to get their rookies as much game experience as possible so they can make a run again next year.
Toronto Rock: This team has been sinking since they traded away their true captain (Colin Doyle) a few years ago. They have hit rock bottom it seems and have made moves already to try to correct things. This team needs more consistent play from everyone including their goalie Bob Watson. They did play well in Boston last weekend so maybe they have turned a corner. They have a lot of players that could help other teams so if they get the right offer I can see them trading some offense for younger and quicker defence.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Gracious Hosts
After an opening game loss to the United States at the World Baseball Classic, Team Canada played the role of gracious hosts a little too well by handing Team Italia the win last night in game four. That loss ended Team Canada’s chances of advancing to the second round.
Before the game started the jumbotron (is this term still used?) showed video of the crowd (all 12,411 of them) before landing on the live feed of the jovial Italian dugout. The players inside were smiling and laughing, some were even out front swinging a bat to stay loose. Next the cameras found the sullen Canadian dugout. The players in this dugout looked as though they were heading out to battle not expecting to return, nary a smile was found.
The first Italian batter came up and immediately hit a one hopper to the mound (the Canadians couldn’t have scripted this any better) but the nerves of the Canadians were evident as Perkins dropped the ball allowing the batter to reach first base. Had the Canadian bats come out in the first inning perhaps the bobble would have been forgotten and Perkins would have settled down but that didn’t happen and things didn’t get much better for the Canadians. They did manage to keep the Italians to six runs though. On the offensive side, well, there was no offensive side for the Canadians aside from Justin Morneau (4 for 5) and Jason bay (2 for 2). With everyone trying for the long ball it is hard to get anything going.
The game overall was rather uninspiring. There were two highlight reel defensive plays by the Italians late in the game but otherwise the game was slow and void of life. There was more action in the stands than on the field. Two kids were removed from the game early in the night and then a few innings later another person was sent walking for inappropriate conduct towards the Italian bullpen. The real excitement of the game happened when the seventh inning stretch became the seventh inning grope. A real family affair last night it was. Gee, I wonder why Toronto hasn’t hosted a top notch international event like, say, the Olympics.
The most glaring aspect of the early exit from the tournament by Team Canada is the fact that their number one pitcher, Scott Richmond, didn’t see any action. It was decided by coaching staff to save Richmond for the game against Venezuela today once they defeated Italy. Given the fact that the next game was not guaranteed this may have been the wrong decision but when the offense, the supposed strong point of the club, only scores two runs against an Italian squad the blame for the loss lies at the feet of the hitters not the pitchers or a coaching decision. The players will be the first ones to admit that but unfortunately, the short sighted media in Toronto will lay blame on Ernie Whitt and the other coaches for their pitching decision.
Congratulations go to Team Italia for ignoring the negativity and going out and playing baseball last night. Had the Canadians done the same, I have no doubt they would be playing today instead of the Italians but as it is, the best team on the night won. Good luck seeking revenge against Venezuela tonight Italy.
Before the game started the jumbotron (is this term still used?) showed video of the crowd (all 12,411 of them) before landing on the live feed of the jovial Italian dugout. The players inside were smiling and laughing, some were even out front swinging a bat to stay loose. Next the cameras found the sullen Canadian dugout. The players in this dugout looked as though they were heading out to battle not expecting to return, nary a smile was found.
The first Italian batter came up and immediately hit a one hopper to the mound (the Canadians couldn’t have scripted this any better) but the nerves of the Canadians were evident as Perkins dropped the ball allowing the batter to reach first base. Had the Canadian bats come out in the first inning perhaps the bobble would have been forgotten and Perkins would have settled down but that didn’t happen and things didn’t get much better for the Canadians. They did manage to keep the Italians to six runs though. On the offensive side, well, there was no offensive side for the Canadians aside from Justin Morneau (4 for 5) and Jason bay (2 for 2). With everyone trying for the long ball it is hard to get anything going.
The game overall was rather uninspiring. There were two highlight reel defensive plays by the Italians late in the game but otherwise the game was slow and void of life. There was more action in the stands than on the field. Two kids were removed from the game early in the night and then a few innings later another person was sent walking for inappropriate conduct towards the Italian bullpen. The real excitement of the game happened when the seventh inning stretch became the seventh inning grope. A real family affair last night it was. Gee, I wonder why Toronto hasn’t hosted a top notch international event like, say, the Olympics.
The most glaring aspect of the early exit from the tournament by Team Canada is the fact that their number one pitcher, Scott Richmond, didn’t see any action. It was decided by coaching staff to save Richmond for the game against Venezuela today once they defeated Italy. Given the fact that the next game was not guaranteed this may have been the wrong decision but when the offense, the supposed strong point of the club, only scores two runs against an Italian squad the blame for the loss lies at the feet of the hitters not the pitchers or a coaching decision. The players will be the first ones to admit that but unfortunately, the short sighted media in Toronto will lay blame on Ernie Whitt and the other coaches for their pitching decision.
Congratulations go to Team Italia for ignoring the negativity and going out and playing baseball last night. Had the Canadians done the same, I have no doubt they would be playing today instead of the Italians but as it is, the best team on the night won. Good luck seeking revenge against Venezuela tonight Italy.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Another Tavares Sets Career Goal Mark
Not every day does a visiting player get a standing ovation for scoring a go ahead goal in a hockey game, especially in the third period, but that is exactly what happened Sunday afternoon in Windsor. John Tavares entered the WFCU in Windsor as a member of the London Knights needing two goals to surpass Peter Lee for career goals in the Ontario Hockey League. After some recent verification by the league, Peter Lee’s total goals during the 1971-1976 seasons was 213.
Tavares scored his record tying 213th goal of his career to open the scoring at 4:51 of the first period. With the game tied at two midway through the third period Tavares scored to take the lead in career goals and gave his London Knights the lead back. After Tavares’ feat was recognized by the public address announcer and a short standing ovation from the 6590 fans in attendance, Windsor was able to tie the game once more. Tavares struck again though completing the hat trick and giving the Knights a 4-3 lead with under two minutes to play.
Tavares not only scored a hat trick on the game winning goal and took the lead in career goals but he also dashed the hopes of the Windsor Spitfires to become the winningest team in OHL history. The London Knights earned 120 points in their Memorial Cup winning 2004/2005 season. Windsor came into this game against London with 113 points and four games to play (therefore needing to win all four remaining games to achieve that distinction).
Tavares scored his record tying 213th goal of his career to open the scoring at 4:51 of the first period. With the game tied at two midway through the third period Tavares scored to take the lead in career goals and gave his London Knights the lead back. After Tavares’ feat was recognized by the public address announcer and a short standing ovation from the 6590 fans in attendance, Windsor was able to tie the game once more. Tavares struck again though completing the hat trick and giving the Knights a 4-3 lead with under two minutes to play.
Tavares not only scored a hat trick on the game winning goal and took the lead in career goals but he also dashed the hopes of the Windsor Spitfires to become the winningest team in OHL history. The London Knights earned 120 points in their Memorial Cup winning 2004/2005 season. Windsor came into this game against London with 113 points and four games to play (therefore needing to win all four remaining games to achieve that distinction).
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Weekend Recap Feb 28 - Mar 1
On Saturday the 2009 Winter Universiade concluded with their closing ceremonies. Over the 11 days of competition China amassed 48 medals: 18 gold, 18 silver and 12 bronze while Russia finished second with 51 medals: 18 gold, 14 silver and 19 bronze. Canada finished in 11th place with six total medals: a gold in women’s ice hockey, silvers in men’s ice hockey, men’s short track speed skating 100M and 5000m relay, and women’s curling and a bronze in women’s short track speed skating 3000m relay.
Staying at the university level several CIS championships took place over the weekend. At the 2009 CIS Women’s Volleyball Championship, the second seed University of British Columbia Thunderbirds defeated the fourth seeded University of Calgary Dinos in five sets to claim their second straight title. Top seeded Montreal Carabins, who lost to the Calgary Dinos in their semi-final, beat their Quebec rival, Laval Rouge et Or, in five sets to settle for third. Trinity Western Spartans claimed fifth spot in a come from behind, five set victory over the York Lions. The men’s Alberta Golden Bears team was not going to be outdone and also defended their title by winning the 2009 Men’s Volleyball Championship. The Bears swept Laval Rouge et Or in the final. The Brandon Bobcats held onto third for the fourth straight year by defeating the McMaster Marauders in four sets while the Dalhousie Tigers downed the Thompson Rivers Wolf Pack in five sets for fifth spot.
After a run of ten straight national team titles, the Brock University men’s wrestling team will have to settle for second place behind Simon Fraser University at the 2009 CIS Wrestling Championship. Concordia finished two points behind Brock for third spot. The University of Calgary women gave the host crowd something to cheer about by claiming the women’s team title. Simon Fraser came second while Saskatchewan finished third and Brock came in fourth. Full details of all matches can be found on the event’s website.
Besides the university events taking place this weekend, there were two curling events of note wrapping up as well. In Victoria, BC, Team Canada defended their title at the 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts and will travel to South Korea to defend their World title at the end of the month. BC’s team skipped by Marla Mallett played well until the seventh end when they let Jennifer Jones’ team steal two and seal the win. BC lead the round robin going 8-3 while Team Canada finished 7-4 and was forced to win a tie breaker before entering the playoffs. In other curling action, Team Canada defeated Sweden in the finals of the 2009 World Wheelchair Curling Championship. Germany claimed bronze after defeating USA 6-4.
Staying at the university level several CIS championships took place over the weekend. At the 2009 CIS Women’s Volleyball Championship, the second seed University of British Columbia Thunderbirds defeated the fourth seeded University of Calgary Dinos in five sets to claim their second straight title. Top seeded Montreal Carabins, who lost to the Calgary Dinos in their semi-final, beat their Quebec rival, Laval Rouge et Or, in five sets to settle for third. Trinity Western Spartans claimed fifth spot in a come from behind, five set victory over the York Lions. The men’s Alberta Golden Bears team was not going to be outdone and also defended their title by winning the 2009 Men’s Volleyball Championship. The Bears swept Laval Rouge et Or in the final. The Brandon Bobcats held onto third for the fourth straight year by defeating the McMaster Marauders in four sets while the Dalhousie Tigers downed the Thompson Rivers Wolf Pack in five sets for fifth spot.
After a run of ten straight national team titles, the Brock University men’s wrestling team will have to settle for second place behind Simon Fraser University at the 2009 CIS Wrestling Championship. Concordia finished two points behind Brock for third spot. The University of Calgary women gave the host crowd something to cheer about by claiming the women’s team title. Simon Fraser came second while Saskatchewan finished third and Brock came in fourth. Full details of all matches can be found on the event’s website.
Besides the university events taking place this weekend, there were two curling events of note wrapping up as well. In Victoria, BC, Team Canada defended their title at the 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts and will travel to South Korea to defend their World title at the end of the month. BC’s team skipped by Marla Mallett played well until the seventh end when they let Jennifer Jones’ team steal two and seal the win. BC lead the round robin going 8-3 while Team Canada finished 7-4 and was forced to win a tie breaker before entering the playoffs. In other curling action, Team Canada defeated Sweden in the finals of the 2009 World Wheelchair Curling Championship. Germany claimed bronze after defeating USA 6-4.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Bandits Let One Get Away
Saturday night saw the Minnesota Swarm enter the HSBC looking for a weekend sweep after a big win Friday night in Toronto. Buffalo, looking to remain unbeaten at home, jumped out to a 4-2 first quarter lead. That lead was extended to 8-3 at the 11:37 mark of the second frame forcing Minnesota to switch goalies. It must have been what the Swarm needed because six seconds later Kevin Buchanan scored his first goal of the game and within two minutes Minnesota scored three more to bring the score to 8-7 heading into the half.
The break didn’t slow Minnesota’s offense at all as Aaron Wilson scored his hat trick goal followed by Kevin Buchanan’s second of the game and Sean Pollock’s second of three. Mike Accursi stopped the bleeding by netting a powerplay goal to end the Swarm’s 7 goal run. Third quarter ended 10-9 in favour of the Swarm but it appeared the Bandits had them right where they wanted them. The crowd started to get back into the game following a fight between Travis Hill and Brandon Francis midway through the third period and some stellar play by goalie Ken Montour to keep the score close.
The fourth quarter was set to be a good one and the teams didn’t disappoint. Aaron Wilson opened the scoring 44 seconds into the period to increase the Swarm’s lead to two but then Buffalo rode the crowd to a five goal run and a three goal lead with less than five minutes to play. Minnesota countered with five of their own to reclaim a two goal lead. Cory Bom-Bom-Bomberry unleashed a cannon with 44 seconds left to make it a one goal game and with the seconds ticking away unleashed a second bomb that beat the keeper but not the crossbar. Game ended in a 16-15 victory for the Swarm, much to the delight of the group of Swarm fans in attendance.
The officiating in this game was suspect at times but thankfully didn’t seem to affect the outcome too much. The Bandits seemed to ease up some when they broke out to the 8-3 lead as Tavares seemed hesitant to shoot and Steenhuis forgot how to pass during the last part of the second quarter. Ken Montour’s performance was like a roller coaster, good for the first half then great in quarter three but couldn't keep the door shut in the final frame. The most impressive part of this game (most concerning for Buffalo) was the ease with which Aaron Wilson, Sean Pollock and Chad Culp were able to command the offensive zone. At least one of those three had a hand in 15 of Minnesota’s 16 goals. Aaron Wilson ended the game with 8 points (5,3), Sean Pollock 9 points (3,6) and Chad Culp 8 (2,6).
The break didn’t slow Minnesota’s offense at all as Aaron Wilson scored his hat trick goal followed by Kevin Buchanan’s second of the game and Sean Pollock’s second of three. Mike Accursi stopped the bleeding by netting a powerplay goal to end the Swarm’s 7 goal run. Third quarter ended 10-9 in favour of the Swarm but it appeared the Bandits had them right where they wanted them. The crowd started to get back into the game following a fight between Travis Hill and Brandon Francis midway through the third period and some stellar play by goalie Ken Montour to keep the score close.
The fourth quarter was set to be a good one and the teams didn’t disappoint. Aaron Wilson opened the scoring 44 seconds into the period to increase the Swarm’s lead to two but then Buffalo rode the crowd to a five goal run and a three goal lead with less than five minutes to play. Minnesota countered with five of their own to reclaim a two goal lead. Cory Bom-Bom-Bomberry unleashed a cannon with 44 seconds left to make it a one goal game and with the seconds ticking away unleashed a second bomb that beat the keeper but not the crossbar. Game ended in a 16-15 victory for the Swarm, much to the delight of the group of Swarm fans in attendance.
The officiating in this game was suspect at times but thankfully didn’t seem to affect the outcome too much. The Bandits seemed to ease up some when they broke out to the 8-3 lead as Tavares seemed hesitant to shoot and Steenhuis forgot how to pass during the last part of the second quarter. Ken Montour’s performance was like a roller coaster, good for the first half then great in quarter three but couldn't keep the door shut in the final frame. The most impressive part of this game (most concerning for Buffalo) was the ease with which Aaron Wilson, Sean Pollock and Chad Culp were able to command the offensive zone. At least one of those three had a hand in 15 of Minnesota’s 16 goals. Aaron Wilson ended the game with 8 points (5,3), Sean Pollock 9 points (3,6) and Chad Culp 8 (2,6).
On The Outside Looking In?
It looks as though the Oshawa Generals will be on the wrong side of the standings once the OHL playoffs begin. They have 6 games left, half of which against the top two teams in the East (2 vs Brampton and 1 vs Belleville) and only 2 games against teams with a worse record than them (Kingston and Peterborough). In the past ten games Oshawa has only two wins, including a 5-4 overtime victory in Peterborough. They are 4-16 in their last 20 and 6-17 since the trade deadline.
The team chasing them, the Peterborough Petes, only have one game against Belleville remaining and only one game against a team below them in the standings (Kingston). They do face the always dangerous Ottawa ‘67’s team twice though so their last six games are not going to be easy. Peterborough is 5-5 in their last ten games, 7-13 in their last 20 and 8-13 since the trade deadline. Peterborough is currently one point behind Oshawa for the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
March 8 could be the deciding day as Peterborough travels to the GMC in Oshawa. For both teams just making the playoffs would benefit them as they would get their young kids some post season experience, even if only four games worth.
The team chasing them, the Peterborough Petes, only have one game against Belleville remaining and only one game against a team below them in the standings (Kingston). They do face the always dangerous Ottawa ‘67’s team twice though so their last six games are not going to be easy. Peterborough is 5-5 in their last ten games, 7-13 in their last 20 and 8-13 since the trade deadline. Peterborough is currently one point behind Oshawa for the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
March 8 could be the deciding day as Peterborough travels to the GMC in Oshawa. For both teams just making the playoffs would benefit them as they would get their young kids some post season experience, even if only four games worth.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Shootouts Have To Go!
A couple years ago someone (it was likely several someones) thought shootouts were a great way to decide a National Hockey League game when the game ends in a tie. That's right, a team sport, when tied after regulation and a brief five minute overtime period, will now be decided on the performance of individual players. But what was wrong with a tie in the first place? Sometimes a game is played between two evenly matched teams who give their all but neither team can get any advantage on the other. Oh that's right, our society has become one of winners and losers; the eternal quest to be better than our neighbours; bragging rights between fans, people who have very little say in how "their team" is put together or performs.
In today's society, the entertainment value is no longer part of the 60 or so minutes of regulation time and overtime but it has been reduced solely to the final outcome. We need to have a winner at any and all cost. After all, it is hard to berate the opposing team if the game ends in a tie, except in Philadelphia of course. People these days need closure and a tie game doesn't give them that. A clear cut winner does. The NHL, on the other hand, was looking for a way to add excitement and in the process, try to stop teams from "playing for a tie" late in the third period and through overtime. Not sure the shootout idea has helped in this regard quite as expected.
Let's use Saturday night's 'Battle of Alberta' as an example of why shootouts are not a good way to break ties. Out of the six shots only one found the back of the net. All three of Edmonton's skaters not only missed the net but didn't even get a shot off while Calgary's skaters were about as fun to watch as the zamboni cleaning the ice just before the shootout. In my opinion a tie in any game would be better than the pathetic display witnessed in Edmonton Saturday night.
In today's society, the entertainment value is no longer part of the 60 or so minutes of regulation time and overtime but it has been reduced solely to the final outcome. We need to have a winner at any and all cost. After all, it is hard to berate the opposing team if the game ends in a tie, except in Philadelphia of course. People these days need closure and a tie game doesn't give them that. A clear cut winner does. The NHL, on the other hand, was looking for a way to add excitement and in the process, try to stop teams from "playing for a tie" late in the third period and through overtime. Not sure the shootout idea has helped in this regard quite as expected.
Let's use Saturday night's 'Battle of Alberta' as an example of why shootouts are not a good way to break ties. Out of the six shots only one found the back of the net. All three of Edmonton's skaters not only missed the net but didn't even get a shot off while Calgary's skaters were about as fun to watch as the zamboni cleaning the ice just before the shootout. In my opinion a tie in any game would be better than the pathetic display witnessed in Edmonton Saturday night.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Canada Earns Podium Spots
Today in Harbin, China, Canada earned their first medals of the 2009 Winter Unversiade. Guillaume Bastille from the University of Quebec at Montreal won a silver medal in the Men's 1000m short track speed skating event. Canada also won a silver medal in the Men's 5000m relay (Guillaume Bastille, Alex Boisvert-Lacroix, Richard Shoebridge & Tyler Derraugh) and a bronze medal in the Women's 3000m relay Valerie Lambert, Annik Plamondon, Nita Avrith & Marie-Andree Mendes-Campeau) also on the short track.
More Records Fall In CIS Swim Finals
After several records fell on Day 1 of the 2009 CIS Swimming Championships, the next two days had a lot to live up to. And they did not disappoint. Between the last two days another 9 Canadian records fell and an insane 17 CIS championship records were surpassed for a total of 15 and 24 during the three day event. Erica Morningstar perhaps stole the show as she took part in the most record setting swims with 5 Canadian/CIS Championship records and another 2 CIS Championship only records.
New Canadian and CIS Championship Record:
- Women’s 100m Back - Katy Murdoch, Calgary, 58.67
- Women’s 200m Breast - Annamay Pierse, UBC, 2:18.59
- Women’s 4 x 200m Free Relay - Calgary, 7:55.91 (Katy Murdoch, Breanna Hendriks, Kevyn Peterson, Erica Morningstar)
- Men’s 50m Breast - Scott Dickens, UBC, 27.53
- Women’s 200m Back - Katy Murdoch, Calgary, 2:06.81
- Men’s 100m Free - Colin Russell, Toronto, 47.23
- Women’s 200m IM - Erica Morningstar, Calgary, 2:09.12
- Women’s 4 x 100m Medley Relay - Calgary, 4:04.20 (Katy Murdoch, Erica Morningstar, Orla O'Kelly, Seanna Mitchell)
- Men’s 4 x 100m Medley Relay - UBC, 3:33.04 (Callum Ng, Scott Dickens, Rory Biskupski, Tommy Gossland)
New CIS Championship Record:
- Men’s 100m Back - Callum Ng, UBC, 52.24
- Women’s 50m Fly - Jennifer Carroll, UQTR, 26.87
- Men’s 200m Breast - Mike Brown, Calgary, 2:07.58
- Women’s 50m Free - Erica Morningstar, Calgary, 25.17
- Men’s 50m Free - Colin Russell, Toronto, 22.03
- Women’s 50m Breast - Annamay Pierse, UBC, 30.71
- Women’s 100m Free - Erica Morningstar, Calgary, 54.03
- Men’s 200m IM - Keith Beavers, Waterloo, 1:55.98
For runners up and full race details, please see the championships results webpage.
Quickest Way To The Top: Buy A Champion
Hungry for a championship in Toronto, a group from Toronto (or at least basing their operations out of Toronto) bought the 2008 Major League Lacrosse champion Rochester Rattlers. During a press conference Friday, the team was renamed the Toronto Nationals to reflect the true purpose of this team: to act as a training team for the Team Canada and Team Iroquois national field lacrosse teams. The United States have dominated the field over the past several decades while the Canadians and Iroquois Nationals have found only limited success.
Not all of the members from the championship team are making the move North but will enough come to challenge for another championship? With the attendance being down for the Rock this year and all other factors considered, will this team survive in Toronto? Most importantly, will this team lead to success on the National level for Team Canada and Team Iroquois?
To find the answers to some of these questions join the team at BMO field in Toronto on the following dates:
Friday May 22 @ 7:30 PM
Friday May 29 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday June 13 @ 7:00 PM
Saturday June 27 @ 7:00 PM
Thursday July 23 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday August 8 @ 7:00 PM
For details on introductory season ticket pricing, head over to torontorock.com and click the Toronto Nationals link on the top or check the Toronto Nationals website once it has launched.
Not all of the members from the championship team are making the move North but will enough come to challenge for another championship? With the attendance being down for the Rock this year and all other factors considered, will this team survive in Toronto? Most importantly, will this team lead to success on the National level for Team Canada and Team Iroquois?
To find the answers to some of these questions join the team at BMO field in Toronto on the following dates:
Friday May 22 @ 7:30 PM
Friday May 29 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday June 13 @ 7:00 PM
Saturday June 27 @ 7:00 PM
Thursday July 23 @ 7:30 PM
Saturday August 8 @ 7:00 PM
For details on introductory season ticket pricing, head over to torontorock.com and click the Toronto Nationals link on the top or check the Toronto Nationals website once it has launched.
Friday, February 20, 2009
New CIS And Canadian Records In Swimming
After day one of the 2009 CIS Swimming Championships saw several CIS and Canadian record performances what can we expect for the rest of the tournament? The following records were set yesterday at the University of British Columbia in beautiful Vancouver, BC.
New Canadian and CIS Championship Record:
- Women's 200m Free - Erica Morningstar, Calgary, 1:56.11
- Men's 200m Free - Colin Russell, Toronto, 1:43.31
- Women's 100m Breast - Annamay Pierse, UBC, 1:05.16
- Men's 100m Breast - Scott Dickens, UBC, 59.34 (tied Canadian record)
- Women's 4x100m Free Relay - Calgary, 3:38.74 (Erica Morningstar, Katy Murdoch, Seanna Mitchell, Breanna Hendriks)
- Men's 4x100m Free Relay - UBC, 3:15.42 (Scott Dickens, Rory Biskupski, Callum Ng, Tommy Gossland)
New CIS Championship Record:
- Women's 50m Back - Hanna Kubas, Calgary, 27.48
For full details and results of Day 1 events check out the article here.
Note: I am really not into swimming, more of a land lover, but with these type of results one cannot help but to take notice...and perhaps be amazed.
Big Dog Drops Gloves For The Last Time
Announced yesterday, Dan Ladouceur of the Toronto Rock has retired from the National Lacrosse League. Most noted for his tough defending and occasional smack downs, Big Dog leaves the game with a league best 428 regular season penalty minutes. During 10 plus seasons in the NLL, Laddy scored 18 points, 5 goals and 11 assists during the regular season and 1 goal and 1 assist in playoffs. He also earned five championship rings while with the Rock (1999, 2000, 2002, 2003 & 2005).
It has been fun watching Big Dog tower over the opposing players over the years but my most vivid memory of his playing was a fight during the 2005 season. The Calgary Roughnecks came to town and the game was a rough one right from the start. The score was out of hand late in the game so frustrations boiled over. Poor Jesse Phillips had the misfortune of squaring off against Ladouceur in the third of five fights during the last minute of play. Phillips found out what it was like to be a rag doll.
Thanks for the memories Big Dog.
It has been fun watching Big Dog tower over the opposing players over the years but my most vivid memory of his playing was a fight during the 2005 season. The Calgary Roughnecks came to town and the game was a rough one right from the start. The score was out of hand late in the game so frustrations boiled over. Poor Jesse Phillips had the misfortune of squaring off against Ladouceur in the third of five fights during the last minute of play. Phillips found out what it was like to be a rag doll.
Thanks for the memories Big Dog.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
What Goes Around...
Last year on March 1, the Philadelphia Wings of the NLL entered HSBC Arena in Buffalo with a perfect 6-0 record. The Wings left that night with a 6-1 record after the Bandits destroyed them 21-12. After that first loss, Philadelphia struggled and lost three of their next four games.
In 2009, Buffalo entered the not so friendly confines of the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia with a perfect 5-0 record last weekend. Heading into the fourth quarter the Bandits held a slim one goal lead but with a strong quarter from A.J. Shannon (a former Bandits player), the Philadelphia Wings handed the Bandits their first loss of the season. Also of note, Buffalo stopped the Minnesota Swarm's perfect run at 6-0 last year as well and the Swarm dropped their next two games and their next three of four just like the Wings.
Having a home and home over the next two weekends with their rival and nemesis, the Toronto Rock, the Bandits could suffer the same let down the Wings and Swarm did one year ago. To carry that further, the Bandits also face their other rival, the Rochester Knighthawks, in Rochester in their fourth game after their first loss. If what goes around really does come around, the Bandits may find themselves fighting for a playoff spot once again when they looked untouchable in their five games to start this season.
In 2009, Buffalo entered the not so friendly confines of the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia with a perfect 5-0 record last weekend. Heading into the fourth quarter the Bandits held a slim one goal lead but with a strong quarter from A.J. Shannon (a former Bandits player), the Philadelphia Wings handed the Bandits their first loss of the season. Also of note, Buffalo stopped the Minnesota Swarm's perfect run at 6-0 last year as well and the Swarm dropped their next two games and their next three of four just like the Wings.
Having a home and home over the next two weekends with their rival and nemesis, the Toronto Rock, the Bandits could suffer the same let down the Wings and Swarm did one year ago. To carry that further, the Bandits also face their other rival, the Rochester Knighthawks, in Rochester in their fourth game after their first loss. If what goes around really does come around, the Bandits may find themselves fighting for a playoff spot once again when they looked untouchable in their five games to start this season.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Ontario Teams Went 0-2 In Curling Finals
In the M&M Meat Shops Canadian Junior Curling Championships, a team from Ontario made it to each final but in both cases lost to their opponent.
On the men's side, Dylan Johnston and his team from Northern Ontario got out to an early 3-0 lead in the first end but PEI's team skipped by Brett Gallant chipped away with two points in each the fourth and sixth ends to tie the game. A single by Johnston in the eighth gave N. Ont the lead but Gallant scored another deuce in the tenth for the 7-6 victory.
On the women's side, Ontario's Rachel Homan opened the scoring in the third end with a single before needing two points to tie the game in the ninth (their only multi-point end). Manitoba's Kaitlyn Lawes took a 3-2 lead in the seventh then stole a point in the eighth to force Ontario to get a big score in the ninth. Lawes then grabbed three points in the tenth to seal the 7-4 win and the second consecutive title for Manitoba.
Both winners will represent Canada at the World Junior Championships in Vancouver beginning on March 5.
On the men's side, Dylan Johnston and his team from Northern Ontario got out to an early 3-0 lead in the first end but PEI's team skipped by Brett Gallant chipped away with two points in each the fourth and sixth ends to tie the game. A single by Johnston in the eighth gave N. Ont the lead but Gallant scored another deuce in the tenth for the 7-6 victory.
On the women's side, Ontario's Rachel Homan opened the scoring in the third end with a single before needing two points to tie the game in the ninth (their only multi-point end). Manitoba's Kaitlyn Lawes took a 3-2 lead in the seventh then stole a point in the eighth to force Ontario to get a big score in the ninth. Lawes then grabbed three points in the tenth to seal the 7-4 win and the second consecutive title for Manitoba.
Both winners will represent Canada at the World Junior Championships in Vancouver beginning on March 5.
Friday, February 6, 2009
History Is Repeating Itself
As bad as the Kingston Frontenacs are this year, sitting dead last in the league with a mere 29 points, they have picked up their game a lot in the past week. Last Friday they defeated a strong London Knights team (2nd in the Western Conference) 3-2 at home while last night they went into Brampton (now tied for first in the Eatern Conference) and forced overtime before suffering the 4-3 loss. Last year they were only a slightly better team but were one of the best teams in the last month or so of the season and made a real surge towards the playoffs.
If only they were a better team this year they could make the playoff situation more interesting. As it is, they will only be a thorn in the side of every team they play in the last few weeks of this season. Any team that doesn't bring their 'A' game will suffer what will be considered an embarrassing defeat.
Things of note:
1. Kingston is roughly ten games away from being eliminated from the playoffs.
2. The top three teams in the Western Conference has not lost in the 5-minute overtime period at all this year.
3. Windsor is the most penalized team so far this year (1115 mins), followed by the Soo (1004 mins) and then London (1002 mins).
4. Ottawa is the least penalized team so far this year (608 mins).
5. Brampton is on another long win streak, currently at 11 games.
6. John Tavares has opened up a 7 point lead in the league scoring race with 78 points, Taylor Hall is next with 71.
7. Brampton's Evgeni Grachev is leading rookie scoring with 53 points, three ahead of London's John Carlson.
8. John Tavares is also leading in goals scored with 41 in 42 games while Mike Murphy of the Bulls is the top goalie with a 2.00 GAA and 0.943 save percentage.
If only they were a better team this year they could make the playoff situation more interesting. As it is, they will only be a thorn in the side of every team they play in the last few weeks of this season. Any team that doesn't bring their 'A' game will suffer what will be considered an embarrassing defeat.
Things of note:
1. Kingston is roughly ten games away from being eliminated from the playoffs.
2. The top three teams in the Western Conference has not lost in the 5-minute overtime period at all this year.
3. Windsor is the most penalized team so far this year (1115 mins), followed by the Soo (1004 mins) and then London (1002 mins).
4. Ottawa is the least penalized team so far this year (608 mins).
5. Brampton is on another long win streak, currently at 11 games.
6. John Tavares has opened up a 7 point lead in the league scoring race with 78 points, Taylor Hall is next with 71.
7. Brampton's Evgeni Grachev is leading rookie scoring with 53 points, three ahead of London's John Carlson.
8. John Tavares is also leading in goals scored with 41 in 42 games while Mike Murphy of the Bulls is the top goalie with a 2.00 GAA and 0.943 save percentage.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Don't Forget the Little Guys
The focus lately in the Ontario Hockey League has been on the top four teams: Windsor, London, Belleville and Brampton. The teams below them have seemed to fade into nothingness, mentioned only when they face any of the top four. Maybe that is the way they like it though. Having the attention elsewhere allows these teams like Saginaw and Guelph in the West and Ottawa and Mississauga in the East to quietly go about their business.
I am not too familiar with the West but I do know that forgetting about Ottawa in the East could be a mistake these top teams do not want to make. London came in to Ottawa on the weekend looking for an easy two points but Ottawa had a solid team effort and came out of the battle with the victory. This team will no doubt have an extra edge to them come playoff time as they look to give the legend Brian Kilrea one last championship before he deservedly gives up his coaching duties. Can they beat London or one of the other top teams in a seven game series? No one knows but they will definitely leave everything on the ice.
I am not too familiar with the West but I do know that forgetting about Ottawa in the East could be a mistake these top teams do not want to make. London came in to Ottawa on the weekend looking for an easy two points but Ottawa had a solid team effort and came out of the battle with the victory. This team will no doubt have an extra edge to them come playoff time as they look to give the legend Brian Kilrea one last championship before he deservedly gives up his coaching duties. Can they beat London or one of the other top teams in a seven game series? No one knows but they will definitely leave everything on the ice.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Buffalo What?
Well, the NLL is into it's fifth week and the defending champion Buffalo Bandits are a perfect 5-0 after defeating the Edmonton Rush 13-8 last night at Rexall Place. After dominating two of their first three games, they are looking good to repeat as champions this year. Mark Steenhuis is having a career year offensively while Chris White and the rest of the defence is shutting down opponents offense allowing more than ten goals only once so far this season.
Of course, a lot of credit goes to the goaltending duo of Ken Montour and Mike Thompson. Between the two they have earned the defensive player of the week award for the past three weeks: two for Montour while Thompson won it last week. Montour will be in the hunt for the award again this week with some stellar saves amongst the 55 shots he faced last night. He ended the game with 47 saves and his third win of the season.
Calgary (4-0) is the only other undefeated team left this year and are also looking quite impressive. If both these teams continue to play well there could be a repeat of the 2004 Champions Cup final. Calgary won that game at home 14-11 for their only Champions Cup. There is still lots of season left so get out and enjoy the action.
Of course, a lot of credit goes to the goaltending duo of Ken Montour and Mike Thompson. Between the two they have earned the defensive player of the week award for the past three weeks: two for Montour while Thompson won it last week. Montour will be in the hunt for the award again this week with some stellar saves amongst the 55 shots he faced last night. He ended the game with 47 saves and his third win of the season.
Calgary (4-0) is the only other undefeated team left this year and are also looking quite impressive. If both these teams continue to play well there could be a repeat of the 2004 Champions Cup final. Calgary won that game at home 14-11 for their only Champions Cup. There is still lots of season left so get out and enjoy the action.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Odds & Ends
- Led by the tournament MVP, John Tavares, Team Canada claimed their fifth straight title at the 2009 IIHF World U20 Hockey Championship. One week ago today, Canada dominated Sweden in the gold medal game in Ottawa, ON winning 5-1 in front of 20,000 plus at ScotiaBank Place. Canada goes for an unprecedented sixth straight title in the co-host cities of Regina and Saskatoon. For ticket or other information about next years tournament click here.
- Canada's under 22 women's hockey team won silver at the 2009 MLP Nations Cup in what was only their second loss in the tournament since it's inception back in 2003. The Canadian team didn't surrender a goal in the tournament until late in the second period of the final game. Canada opened the tournament with a 3-0 victory over Finland before beating Russia 11-0 in the other round robin game and Germany 3-0 in the semi-final.
- Canada's under 18 women's hockey team also brought Canada a silver medal in their championship tournament. After scores of 16-1 against Switzerland, 6-0 against Finland and 13-0 against the Czech Republic, Canada beat Sweden 6-1 in the semis before losing 3-2 to Team USA in the gold medal game.
- The NLL season has begun and so far the defending champion Buffalo Bandits are looking good to repeat. They dominated the Philadelphia Wings in their season and home opener January 3 and found a way to beat a much improved Toronto Rock team on Saturday (Buffalo had not beat Toronto since January 2006 and hold a losing record all-time against Toronto).
- For this NLL season, all games are being broadcast live online free of charge. Just log on to www.nll.com and click the watch live link. It is nothing like experiencing the game live but it is great for those who cannot make it to the arena...or for those on the opposite coast. I hope this experiment works because I really enjoyed watching Colin Doyle and the San Jose Stealth take on the Calgary Roughnecks Friday night.
- Canada's under 22 women's hockey team won silver at the 2009 MLP Nations Cup in what was only their second loss in the tournament since it's inception back in 2003. The Canadian team didn't surrender a goal in the tournament until late in the second period of the final game. Canada opened the tournament with a 3-0 victory over Finland before beating Russia 11-0 in the other round robin game and Germany 3-0 in the semi-final.
- Canada's under 18 women's hockey team also brought Canada a silver medal in their championship tournament. After scores of 16-1 against Switzerland, 6-0 against Finland and 13-0 against the Czech Republic, Canada beat Sweden 6-1 in the semis before losing 3-2 to Team USA in the gold medal game.
- The NLL season has begun and so far the defending champion Buffalo Bandits are looking good to repeat. They dominated the Philadelphia Wings in their season and home opener January 3 and found a way to beat a much improved Toronto Rock team on Saturday (Buffalo had not beat Toronto since January 2006 and hold a losing record all-time against Toronto).
- For this NLL season, all games are being broadcast live online free of charge. Just log on to www.nll.com and click the watch live link. It is nothing like experiencing the game live but it is great for those who cannot make it to the arena...or for those on the opposite coast. I hope this experiment works because I really enjoyed watching Colin Doyle and the San Jose Stealth take on the Calgary Roughnecks Friday night.
Monday, January 5, 2009
USA Spoils Canadian Sweep at U17
After losing a tight game 6-5 to Team Pacific in overtime Saturday night, Team USA regrouped for Sunday afternoon and went on to defeat Team West 4-2 to claim the Bronze medal in the 2009 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in Port Alberni, BC. Jacob Fallon scored a hat trick to lead the USA to their first ever bronze medal in this tournament.
Team USA jumped out to an early lead when Fallon scored the first of his three goals before the five minute mark. Fallon scored again in the last five minutes of the first to give Team USA a 2-0 lead heading into the first intermission. Team USA's lead was doubled in the second period on goals by Stuart Higgins and Fallon. The third period started well for Team West as they broke the shutout just over a minute into to the period on Quinton Howden's (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL) first goal. Just over two and a half minutes later Howden connected for his second goal of the game and it looked like the Canadian side was on their way to a comeback. Will Yanakeff had other thoughts and shut the door in net for the USA to give them the 4-2 win and prevent a medal sweep by Canada.
Team Ontario hosted Team Pacific in the gold medal game Sunday night. During the preliminary round Team Ontario defeated Team Pacific 6-3 for a perfect round robin record. The loss to Ontario was the lone loss for Team Pacific in preliminary round play.
Penalties prevented either team from building much momentum in the first period but Team Ontario was able to open the scoring in the last minute of the period on a goal by Tyler Seguin from the Plymouth Whalers of the OHL. Jeff Skinner from the Kitchener Rangers (OHL) increased Team Ontario's lead on his goal early in the second period on a wrap around that fooled everyone. The tempo picked up some after the second Ontario goal and both teams had their chances. With under a minute remaining in the second period and after some great saves by the Ontario keeper, JP Anderson (Mississauga Majors, OHL), Team Pacific gets their first goal of the game from Justin Feser of the Tri City Americans (WHL).
John McFarland (Sudbury Wolves, OHL) scored to open up the third period and restore the two goal lead for Team Ontario. After over sixteen minutes of uptempo, high intensity hockey, Team Ontario's Steve Shipley (Owen Sound Attack, OHL) pretty well put the game away with a partial breakaway goal to increase the lead to 4-1. John McFarland scored his second goal of the game on a late power play to give Team Ontario the 5-1 win and their second consecutive championship win.
Next year's tournament will be played in Timmins, Ontario where the host team will look for the three-peat.
Team USA jumped out to an early lead when Fallon scored the first of his three goals before the five minute mark. Fallon scored again in the last five minutes of the first to give Team USA a 2-0 lead heading into the first intermission. Team USA's lead was doubled in the second period on goals by Stuart Higgins and Fallon. The third period started well for Team West as they broke the shutout just over a minute into to the period on Quinton Howden's (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL) first goal. Just over two and a half minutes later Howden connected for his second goal of the game and it looked like the Canadian side was on their way to a comeback. Will Yanakeff had other thoughts and shut the door in net for the USA to give them the 4-2 win and prevent a medal sweep by Canada.
Team Ontario hosted Team Pacific in the gold medal game Sunday night. During the preliminary round Team Ontario defeated Team Pacific 6-3 for a perfect round robin record. The loss to Ontario was the lone loss for Team Pacific in preliminary round play.
Penalties prevented either team from building much momentum in the first period but Team Ontario was able to open the scoring in the last minute of the period on a goal by Tyler Seguin from the Plymouth Whalers of the OHL. Jeff Skinner from the Kitchener Rangers (OHL) increased Team Ontario's lead on his goal early in the second period on a wrap around that fooled everyone. The tempo picked up some after the second Ontario goal and both teams had their chances. With under a minute remaining in the second period and after some great saves by the Ontario keeper, JP Anderson (Mississauga Majors, OHL), Team Pacific gets their first goal of the game from Justin Feser of the Tri City Americans (WHL).
John McFarland (Sudbury Wolves, OHL) scored to open up the third period and restore the two goal lead for Team Ontario. After over sixteen minutes of uptempo, high intensity hockey, Team Ontario's Steve Shipley (Owen Sound Attack, OHL) pretty well put the game away with a partial breakaway goal to increase the lead to 4-1. John McFarland scored his second goal of the game on a late power play to give Team Ontario the 5-1 win and their second consecutive championship win.
Next year's tournament will be played in Timmins, Ontario where the host team will look for the three-peat.
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