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.
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