Happy win-aversary Canada! It was two years ago today that millions of Canadians gathered around televisions all over the world to watch the gold medal matchup against the United States on our home soil in the 2010 Olympic games. Those who watched were fortunate enough to witness Chris Cuthbert's iconic call of Sidney Crosby's "golden goal". It's hard not to get goosebumps when re-watching that, isn't it?
Speculation in sports is one of my favourite games, so in light of that let me present to you Keon to Dion's projected lineup (in alphabetical order, and by position) for the Team Canada roster at the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia!
A hockey blog exploring the stories of the Toronto Maple Leafs, and the rest of the NHL.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
It's time to move on from Ron
I might as well cut to the chase: it's time for the Toronto Maple Leafs to cut ties with Ron Wilson.
Since his hiring in 2008, fans and members of the media have made calls for his head in every season that he's coached. Up until this point however, I've been in Wilson's corner. When it comes to any team sport, I maintain the philosophy that "you can't build a house without any tools". It's true. You can't. In past years the Leafs have not had the "tools" to build the hypothetical house, which of course would be making the playoffs and eventually becoming a Stanley Cup contender. In past seasons, Ron Wilson has been handed substandard players at all three positions, and when coupled with the unrealistic expectations of unrealistic fans, it's difficult to make positive strides.
However, that was then and this is now. The Leafs team that Wilson has in his hands now is by far the most competent and competitive roster since the beginning of his time in Toronto and they are good enough to make the playoffs. Yet the Leafs sit in tenth in the East, mere hours after the trade deadline. They are 2-7-1 in their past ten games, and have struggled for goals and effective defence over that period. This team was never expected to be an Eastern Conference juggernaut, but by no means were they supposed to be this bad either. Any realistic person would have had them penciled in to finish anywhere between 7th place and 10th place at the beginning of the season, so an outsider may not say that the position that they find themselves in is that surprising. However, this stretch of futility is unacceptable. Things were never supposed to go this poorly, for this long, this season. Yes, they are only three points away from a playoff spot, but they're only seven points out of the Eastern Conference basement. There are still many wins up for grabs, but it's hard to ignore the downward trajectory that they're experiencing right now; they're going ice cold at the most important point of the season.
This futility was demonstrated in its entirety on Saturday night against the Washington Capitals as they went down by two goals early and never had a chance of getting back in the game. It was awful. The most awful part however, occurred during Ron Wilson's post-game press conference. It was at this point when Wilson preceded to blame James Reimer for the loss on Saturday night saying that the two early goals were "stoppable" and musing that his performance was the reason that his team had few offensive answers for a tired Capitals squad. Through his entire tenure with the club, Ron Wilson has been equally game to assess blame, as he has been to accept praise. When things are going poorly, Wilson points fingers, and when things are going well he is happy to accept praise. He is quick to move between the "them" and "us" mentality as it is convenient for him. That is not OK.
The Maple Leafs organization will tell anyone who will listen that they are the youngest team in hockey, which is a great thing. But young hockey players have different needs than veteran hockey players, especially in this age. Ron Wilson may have a fantastic career coaching record, but he's never coached a team like this and he's not dealing with them in the proper way. Young hockey players need to be built up and they need to hear a vote of confidence from their coaches and managers from time to time. When was the last time Wilson did either of these things? When was the last time Ron Wilson gave a vote of confidence to James Reimer even after a shaky start? When was the last time the masses were told that Luke Schenn was a valuable member of the Maple Leafs? Constantly being surrounded by negativity is not the way to grow a competent professional. Wilson's wonky decision making for goaltender starts has caused many to shake their heads this year, and many believe that he does not care for Luke Schenn at all. The "win and you're in" philosophy may be effective for a team with two confident, veteran goalies but it doesn't work when both of your puck-stoppers have fewer than 100 career games under their belts. How are they supposed to develop as professionals when every goal allowed makes them wonder if they'll even get to start the next game? Consistency leads to growth, and neither James Reimer nor Jonas Gustavsson have received any sort of consistency this season. How is Luke Schenn supposed to live up to expectations when he knows every small mistake will only result in ridicule from his coach and the media? If Brian Burke (who is loyal to a fault) does not remove Ron Wilson from behind the Leafs bench he will ruin the progress that has been made towards becoming a legitimate playoff contender.
It would be difficult to pick what exactly the Leafs' Achilles heel has been in Wilson's time with the club as the power play, penalty kill, and defence have all brought about their headaches, but this season in particular the PK and defence have been horrendous. At other points in his tenure, personnel could be blamed as names like Jeff Finger and Garnet Exelby were never the answer, but personnel cannot be blamed now. Leafs fans are notorious for overvaluing their own players, but it's difficult to formulate an argument against the potential of a defence core that includes Dion Phaneuf, Luke Schenn, Cody Franson, and John-Michael Liles. This core does not only look good on paper. If coached properly these young men, along with Carl Gunnarsson and Jake Gardiner would definitely form one of the most effective top-six in the league. There wouldn't be many other teams who could match what they have. Yet, the Leafs are positioned at 29th on the PK and 28th in goals against. Could it be possible that a different coaching staff with different philosophies and systems would make a difference with this team? My vote is yes.
Unfortunately, one of the more popular solutions to some of the above issues with many armchair GMs is to trade Luke Schenn. Many have already given up on the former fifth overall draft pick and say that the only way for him to flourish would be to move on and find a "change of scenery", this, once again brings us back to Ron Wilson. Wouldn't it be worth seeing how Luke Schenn responds to a different coach and different system before making a drastic move? When drafted he was supposed to be a major building block for the franchise, and he can still live up to this. One of the more disturbing things about this entire situation is that Leafs management have yet to make a move to squash rumours that Schenn was on the trading block. At 22 years of age, Luke Schenn was allowed to think that he was disposable every night that he stepped on the ice for weeks now. He is still learning to be a professional and shouldn't be expected to get through these mind games on his own yet. These rumours are almost inescapable in Toronto, it's just how things are, but at no point did his coach step forward and give him a vote of confidence to the media. Young men learning to be professionals require this kind of nurturing to excel, and he is not receiving it. Trading someone of Luke Schenn's potential at his age would be ludicrous and would definitely be something that Brian Burke would live to regret.
Somebody needs to tell Luke that.
Fortunately, the trade deadline passed with no casualties to the current roster. This should help create a more relaxed culture around the team for the stretch run and it is time for the team to prove its mettle. With Ron Wilson getting his ridiculous Christmas Day contract extension in December, there's no chance of him losing his jobuntil unless the Leafs miss the playoffs. That's the best time for the move anyway, then Brian Burke can do a legitimate search and interview process for a head coach.
For now though, it's time for the Maple Leafs to go out and do whatever they can do to try and sneak into the playoffs, because at some point the futility has to stop. One thing is for certain though: in order for this team to be successful next season, Ron Wilson cannot be behind the bench; it's time to move on.
- @BradMac91
- @KeontoDion
This futility was demonstrated in its entirety on Saturday night against the Washington Capitals as they went down by two goals early and never had a chance of getting back in the game. It was awful. The most awful part however, occurred during Ron Wilson's post-game press conference. It was at this point when Wilson preceded to blame James Reimer for the loss on Saturday night saying that the two early goals were "stoppable" and musing that his performance was the reason that his team had few offensive answers for a tired Capitals squad. Through his entire tenure with the club, Ron Wilson has been equally game to assess blame, as he has been to accept praise. When things are going poorly, Wilson points fingers, and when things are going well he is happy to accept praise. He is quick to move between the "them" and "us" mentality as it is convenient for him. That is not OK.
The Maple Leafs organization will tell anyone who will listen that they are the youngest team in hockey, which is a great thing. But young hockey players have different needs than veteran hockey players, especially in this age. Ron Wilson may have a fantastic career coaching record, but he's never coached a team like this and he's not dealing with them in the proper way. Young hockey players need to be built up and they need to hear a vote of confidence from their coaches and managers from time to time. When was the last time Wilson did either of these things? When was the last time Ron Wilson gave a vote of confidence to James Reimer even after a shaky start? When was the last time the masses were told that Luke Schenn was a valuable member of the Maple Leafs? Constantly being surrounded by negativity is not the way to grow a competent professional. Wilson's wonky decision making for goaltender starts has caused many to shake their heads this year, and many believe that he does not care for Luke Schenn at all. The "win and you're in" philosophy may be effective for a team with two confident, veteran goalies but it doesn't work when both of your puck-stoppers have fewer than 100 career games under their belts. How are they supposed to develop as professionals when every goal allowed makes them wonder if they'll even get to start the next game? Consistency leads to growth, and neither James Reimer nor Jonas Gustavsson have received any sort of consistency this season. How is Luke Schenn supposed to live up to expectations when he knows every small mistake will only result in ridicule from his coach and the media? If Brian Burke (who is loyal to a fault) does not remove Ron Wilson from behind the Leafs bench he will ruin the progress that has been made towards becoming a legitimate playoff contender.
It would be difficult to pick what exactly the Leafs' Achilles heel has been in Wilson's time with the club as the power play, penalty kill, and defence have all brought about their headaches, but this season in particular the PK and defence have been horrendous. At other points in his tenure, personnel could be blamed as names like Jeff Finger and Garnet Exelby were never the answer, but personnel cannot be blamed now. Leafs fans are notorious for overvaluing their own players, but it's difficult to formulate an argument against the potential of a defence core that includes Dion Phaneuf, Luke Schenn, Cody Franson, and John-Michael Liles. This core does not only look good on paper. If coached properly these young men, along with Carl Gunnarsson and Jake Gardiner would definitely form one of the most effective top-six in the league. There wouldn't be many other teams who could match what they have. Yet, the Leafs are positioned at 29th on the PK and 28th in goals against. Could it be possible that a different coaching staff with different philosophies and systems would make a difference with this team? My vote is yes.
Unfortunately, one of the more popular solutions to some of the above issues with many armchair GMs is to trade Luke Schenn. Many have already given up on the former fifth overall draft pick and say that the only way for him to flourish would be to move on and find a "change of scenery", this, once again brings us back to Ron Wilson. Wouldn't it be worth seeing how Luke Schenn responds to a different coach and different system before making a drastic move? When drafted he was supposed to be a major building block for the franchise, and he can still live up to this. One of the more disturbing things about this entire situation is that Leafs management have yet to make a move to squash rumours that Schenn was on the trading block. At 22 years of age, Luke Schenn was allowed to think that he was disposable every night that he stepped on the ice for weeks now. He is still learning to be a professional and shouldn't be expected to get through these mind games on his own yet. These rumours are almost inescapable in Toronto, it's just how things are, but at no point did his coach step forward and give him a vote of confidence to the media. Young men learning to be professionals require this kind of nurturing to excel, and he is not receiving it. Trading someone of Luke Schenn's potential at his age would be ludicrous and would definitely be something that Brian Burke would live to regret.
Somebody needs to tell Luke that.
Fortunately, the trade deadline passed with no casualties to the current roster. This should help create a more relaxed culture around the team for the stretch run and it is time for the team to prove its mettle. With Ron Wilson getting his ridiculous Christmas Day contract extension in December, there's no chance of him losing his job
For now though, it's time for the Maple Leafs to go out and do whatever they can do to try and sneak into the playoffs, because at some point the futility has to stop. One thing is for certain though: in order for this team to be successful next season, Ron Wilson cannot be behind the bench; it's time to move on.
- @BradMac91
- @KeontoDion
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Carter and Richards: reunited
In case you hadn't already heard, the NHL's trade season was kicked into full-gear on Thursday night with the trade of Jeff Carter from the Columbus Blue Jackets to the Los Angeles Kings. The trade was necessary for both teams, as the Carter experiment was not working out in Columbus and the Kings have had well-documented offensive struggles this year. However, as is the case in many trades at this time of year, the move is accompanied by some very intriguing story lines.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Buyer beware
The NHL trade deadline rarely goes by without rumours swirling regarding the one or two big fish that are said to be available each year. This year, that fish seems to be the Columbus Blue Jackets captain; Rick Nash. Rick Nash has spent his entire nine-year career with the Blue Jackets, and is one of the few players of note that the franchise has ever had. He's a fantastic player, and has been very patient with the franchise's nearly constant inability to be a playoff contender, but finally it seems that he's had enough. Nash is ready to waive his no trade clause to part ways from the only NHL team he's ever played for, and there's a good chance that he will be traded away to a "contender" by the February 27th deadline. Of course, he will be pursued by any team that can offer Columbus an appealing package; a player of his calibre does not become available very often. Any team looking to beef up for a shot at the Cup will make an offer, but this makes me wonder-- should they?
As it goes when any big name is up for grabs, the New York Rangers are rumoured to be heavily involved in acquiring Nash. If the Rangers were to be successful in their pursuit, their top-six forwards would include: Nash, Marian Gaborik, Ryan Callahan, and Brad Richards. That's downright scary. However, one would wonder if this is this a move that is in the Rangers' best interest at this time? No, it is not. Nor is it for any other genuine Stanley Cup contender.
A trade for Rick Nash would not be like a trade for any other NHL regular. You cannot simply make up a package willy-nilly and cut a deal. Nash is an impact player, and moving him would demand impact players in return. Do the Rangers really want to make that kind of move at this point of the season? Their 3-0 defeat of the Boston Bruins earlier this week proved that they are the class of the Eastern Conference, and perhaps even the class of the NHL. The Rangers have passed every test that they have encountered this year in defeating the other contenders, plus they have a fantastic coaching staff, and their roster from top to bottom is one that is structured for a shot at Stanley.
So why would it make sense to mess with a winning formula? Rumours suggest that in order to acquire Nash, the Rangers would have to part ways with forwards Artem Anisimov, and Brandon Dubinsky, as well as some prospects and draft picks. Although Anisimov and Dubinsky are by no means the club's marquee players, they are still important parts of the team. A Stanley Cup contending team isn't all goal scorers, and a star goalie. The best teams are ones that have diversity within, and diversity of personalities is imperative to team success. The reason that other teams hate playing against the Rangers isn't only because of having to solve Henrik Lundqvist; Anisimov and Dubinsky both are both fantastic teammates and they make games against the Rangers difficult. A change of this magnitude in the dressing room at this point of the season would not be a move to win the Stanley Cup this year. The entire team focus and dynamic would change and they may be hard-pressed to quickly re-discover their identity. It's just how teams work. They need time to gel after big moves, and the playoff stretch-run is not the time for this to happen. Moves like this are what the summer is for. If the Rangers, or any other contender (believe me, Nash will only agree to go to a team that he views as a contender) for that matter want his services, they would be best off to wait until the the NHL Entry Draft in Pittsburgh to make a move happen. Recent history has proven it. How did the Sharks fare when they traded for Brian Campbell? Did the Penguins win the Cup when they traded for Marian Hossa? What about when the Devils got Ilya Kovalchuk?
Don't get me wrong, Rick Nash will be a tremendous addition for whatever team picks him up, but that move would be suited best for the off-season, when there's plenty of time to get a winning formula in place. A team that wants him now could very well win the Cup this spring, and again with him next spring. However risking what is working right now, isn't worth missing out on the Cup. The Rangers and others can win without him.
-@BradMac91
-@KeontoDion #K2D
As it goes when any big name is up for grabs, the New York Rangers are rumoured to be heavily involved in acquiring Nash. If the Rangers were to be successful in their pursuit, their top-six forwards would include: Nash, Marian Gaborik, Ryan Callahan, and Brad Richards. That's downright scary. However, one would wonder if this is this a move that is in the Rangers' best interest at this time? No, it is not. Nor is it for any other genuine Stanley Cup contender.
A trade for Rick Nash would not be like a trade for any other NHL regular. You cannot simply make up a package willy-nilly and cut a deal. Nash is an impact player, and moving him would demand impact players in return. Do the Rangers really want to make that kind of move at this point of the season? Their 3-0 defeat of the Boston Bruins earlier this week proved that they are the class of the Eastern Conference, and perhaps even the class of the NHL. The Rangers have passed every test that they have encountered this year in defeating the other contenders, plus they have a fantastic coaching staff, and their roster from top to bottom is one that is structured for a shot at Stanley.
So why would it make sense to mess with a winning formula? Rumours suggest that in order to acquire Nash, the Rangers would have to part ways with forwards Artem Anisimov, and Brandon Dubinsky, as well as some prospects and draft picks. Although Anisimov and Dubinsky are by no means the club's marquee players, they are still important parts of the team. A Stanley Cup contending team isn't all goal scorers, and a star goalie. The best teams are ones that have diversity within, and diversity of personalities is imperative to team success. The reason that other teams hate playing against the Rangers isn't only because of having to solve Henrik Lundqvist; Anisimov and Dubinsky both are both fantastic teammates and they make games against the Rangers difficult. A change of this magnitude in the dressing room at this point of the season would not be a move to win the Stanley Cup this year. The entire team focus and dynamic would change and they may be hard-pressed to quickly re-discover their identity. It's just how teams work. They need time to gel after big moves, and the playoff stretch-run is not the time for this to happen. Moves like this are what the summer is for. If the Rangers, or any other contender (believe me, Nash will only agree to go to a team that he views as a contender) for that matter want his services, they would be best off to wait until the the NHL Entry Draft in Pittsburgh to make a move happen. Recent history has proven it. How did the Sharks fare when they traded for Brian Campbell? Did the Penguins win the Cup when they traded for Marian Hossa? What about when the Devils got Ilya Kovalchuk?
Don't get me wrong, Rick Nash will be a tremendous addition for whatever team picks him up, but that move would be suited best for the off-season, when there's plenty of time to get a winning formula in place. A team that wants him now could very well win the Cup this spring, and again with him next spring. However risking what is working right now, isn't worth missing out on the Cup. The Rangers and others can win without him.
-@BradMac91
-@KeontoDion #K2D
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
The importance of quick starts
In post-lockout hockey, not many things have gone right for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Examples of this can be found here, here, and here. The entire franchise has been a great big revolving door for the past six years in almost every aspect. Things are looking up now, however there are still some big hills to climb, and one of the biggest will take place over the next two weeks.
One of the many things that the Leafs have not done well over this period of time is giving themselves good starts to work with. The amount of times over the past six seasons that the Leafs have had slow starts to games, and entire seasons are countless. Saturday night was a classic example of this. The Leafs had chances early that were ultimately squandered. They embarrassed themselves in front of a legend, at home, to their biggest rival. This is not Kosher for this team, at this point in the season. It is critical that this habit does not rear its ugly head over the next eight games which take us to the end of the month. If it does, then you might as well stick a fork in them.
Tonight, the Leafs begin a three game western Canadian swing through Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver. At face value, two of these three games look very winnable, and one will be a tough one. I'll let you sort out which is which. However, although their teams are subpar, Calgary and Edmonton have incredible home records with 15-8-2 and 15-8-3 respectively so it may be hard for the Leafs to squeeze those important points out of the hostile Albertan environment. Then, there's Vancouver. What can we really expect from a game in Vancouver? It is very conceivable that the Leafs could return from this trip with no wins, and no points. It wouldn't be the first time they've done this, and unfortunately it may not be the last.
After the western swing the Leafs meet with the Devils, Sharks, Capitals, Panthers, and Blackhawks, and then that's February. This is the time of year that separates the contenders from the pretenders, and with that in mind, the Leafs need to win at least six of these next eight games. Doing poorly on this trip will likely drop them out of the playoff picture, and losses to the Devils, Caps, or Panthers could keep them out. It is no longer time for these 2-3 game strings of wins, followed by 2-3 game strings of losses. It's time to put up, or shut up. There is very little room for error, and playing catchup is a dangerous game in March.
This all brings me back to the importance of quick starts. Teams from the east sometimes have the tendency to have a slow start in a wonky timezone. This absolutely cannot happen in western Canada. The rabid home fans out there will take over, and eat them alive. The Leafs need to show up early, and let it show on the scoreboard. This will give them the opportunity to set the tone for the game, and give them a chance to win. If the Leafs do this, then there's a better chance that they can glean 4 or 5 points from this trip; victories in Calgary and Edmonton are possible, but in Vancouver it's a roll of the dice. If they return home after the weekend with those points, then things will be looking pretty rosy, if not then the playoffs will begin to look more and more like a dream.
The time for losses they can "hang their hats on" and having "bad luck" are gone. The Leafs have been getting help from other teams losing as well, that also needs to go out the window. Good teams make their own luck, and control their own fate. It's what separates the men from the boys, and the good from the bad.
These next two weeks will define the season, and a good start tonight will go a long way.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Sorry Don, you're irrelevant
Disclaimer: The following views are definitely the views of Keon to Dion and it's editor. You may be offended, get mad at me, or compare me to Benedict Arnold in some sort of twisted way. Frankly, I don't care. Thank you.
Despite all of the goings on in the world over the past week, the Toronto Sun ran what was close to a week-long feature on a feud between Brian Burke and Donald S. Cherry. The details of the dispute can be viewed here but the details are not what is important today, it's Mr. Cherry and his ever-tiring actions that are my point of interest.
Close to every Saturday night the man in the ugly suit pulls out his normal bullying tactics and huffs and puffs tirelessly against whoever he's decided to have a problem with on the particular day. Whether it's former fighters who are concerned about player safety or somebody not rhythmically striking their palms together for the Canadian troops, no crime is small enough in the eyes of our great coach!
Of course, that statement is oozing with sarcasm, and why shouldn't it be? The man and his act are getting pretty old. In the words of Mike Rupp, Don Cherry is darn near irrelevant (sorry about the salty language).
To the ordinary armchair athlete slurping back his Keystone Light in Moose Jaw, Timmins, or Yellowknife, Don Cherry may be a real stand-up guy and perhaps even our "Greatest" Canadian. But to those that matter today in the hockey world the man, and his message have become nothing but a punchline. If you listen to or read any major hockey source in Canada on a regular basis, you will know what I'm talking about.
His beliefs and the things that he glorifies are just not meant for our modern game. Are frightening, life-altering hits and staged fights really something that hockey needs these days? It's well-documented that we're mired in a concussion epidemic, but it should also be mentioned that we're witnessing some of the greatest offensive stars of a generation, finally starting to blossom. Guys like Giroux, Eberle, Kessel, and Tavares are finally joining the ranks of Malkin, Crosby, and Stamkos. Yet Grapes is trying to revive the dying age of the enforcer. All I want to ask is: why? Why are violent hits and passionless fights so necessary in what could be a golden age for hockey?
Don't get me wrong, Cherry's influence still exists. People still tune in to his program, and clearly even his critics still have plenty to say. He will continue to be lauded by some, and loathed by others until his final sign-off from Coaches Corner.
This is when the real change will happen. CBC only holds a contract to those Saturday night games through the 2013-2014 season, and once that contract is up, expect CTV and TSN to run a full-court press towards that agreement. The publically-owned CBC has not been able to hold rights to the Grey Cup, Olympics, or even their own hockey theme in the recent past, so naturally one cannot help but wonder about CBC's future with the NHL. Once the inevitable happens, the good pieces (I'm looking at you Elliotte Friedman) will be acquired by CTV-Globemedia, and the rest will be left for the hounds. Cherry will be left on the outside looking in. TSN already has its own format that works for hockey, and they won't divert from that. They've already tried the controversial figure in Matthew Barnaby, and that failed miserably. They will stay the course in the future.
Don Cherry may still have the ear of the public, but he doesn't have any more than that. At least he may have a future in music.
I'm cheeky, I know!
@BradMac91
@KeontoDion
Despite all of the goings on in the world over the past week, the Toronto Sun ran what was close to a week-long feature on a feud between Brian Burke and Donald S. Cherry. The details of the dispute can be viewed here but the details are not what is important today, it's Mr. Cherry and his ever-tiring actions that are my point of interest.
Close to every Saturday night the man in the ugly suit pulls out his normal bullying tactics and huffs and puffs tirelessly against whoever he's decided to have a problem with on the particular day. Whether it's former fighters who are concerned about player safety or somebody not rhythmically striking their palms together for the Canadian troops, no crime is small enough in the eyes of our great coach!
Of course, that statement is oozing with sarcasm, and why shouldn't it be? The man and his act are getting pretty old. In the words of Mike Rupp, Don Cherry is darn near irrelevant (sorry about the salty language).
To the ordinary armchair athlete slurping back his Keystone Light in Moose Jaw, Timmins, or Yellowknife, Don Cherry may be a real stand-up guy and perhaps even our "Greatest" Canadian. But to those that matter today in the hockey world the man, and his message have become nothing but a punchline. If you listen to or read any major hockey source in Canada on a regular basis, you will know what I'm talking about.
His beliefs and the things that he glorifies are just not meant for our modern game. Are frightening, life-altering hits and staged fights really something that hockey needs these days? It's well-documented that we're mired in a concussion epidemic, but it should also be mentioned that we're witnessing some of the greatest offensive stars of a generation, finally starting to blossom. Guys like Giroux, Eberle, Kessel, and Tavares are finally joining the ranks of Malkin, Crosby, and Stamkos. Yet Grapes is trying to revive the dying age of the enforcer. All I want to ask is: why? Why are violent hits and passionless fights so necessary in what could be a golden age for hockey?
Don't get me wrong, Cherry's influence still exists. People still tune in to his program, and clearly even his critics still have plenty to say. He will continue to be lauded by some, and loathed by others until his final sign-off from Coaches Corner.
This is when the real change will happen. CBC only holds a contract to those Saturday night games through the 2013-2014 season, and once that contract is up, expect CTV and TSN to run a full-court press towards that agreement. The publically-owned CBC has not been able to hold rights to the Grey Cup, Olympics, or even their own hockey theme in the recent past, so naturally one cannot help but wonder about CBC's future with the NHL. Once the inevitable happens, the good pieces (I'm looking at you Elliotte Friedman) will be acquired by CTV-Globemedia, and the rest will be left for the hounds. Cherry will be left on the outside looking in. TSN already has its own format that works for hockey, and they won't divert from that. They've already tried the controversial figure in Matthew Barnaby, and that failed miserably. They will stay the course in the future.
Don Cherry may still have the ear of the public, but he doesn't have any more than that. At least he may have a future in music.
I'm cheeky, I know!
@BradMac91
@KeontoDion
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Fans have less to cheer for with the NHL's "All-Star" game
Editors note: Hey friends! Due to personal commitments, I haven't been able to blog as much as I've wished to off the start. This will be changing soon. In the meantime, my good buddy Dillon (@hi_dillon) has written a freelance piece for KD2 about the modern day issues with the NHL All-Star game. Enjoy!
The NHL has a serious problem with its “All-Star” game. Note the quotation marks, because it isn’t much of a showcase for the league’s top talent these days. Players like superstar Alexander Ovechkin, captain serious Jonathan Toews and Hall of Fame bound Niklas Lidstrom have chosen to opt out of the game and relax for a few days. What kind of message is the league sending allowing these players to do this? Remember: this game is supposed to be for the fans.
The players have an obligation to the fans, who each and every night go out and pay good money to watch them play. The least they could do is attend one weekend mid-season to celebrate the game they love and salute the fans. Apparently, this is easier said than done.
But can you really blame the players? With the game having no real meaning, why would they not take the opportunity to vacation with their families or recover from nagging injuries? Other leagues such as the NBA and NFL have no issues with their crème de la crop players opting out and their games have no influence on the rest of the season. The NFL entices players with their Pro Bowl with a trip to beautiful Hawaii... something tells me that’s a little more appealing than a visit to the cold surroundings of our nation’s capital. Perhaps the All-Star game should have some implication on the rest of the season like MLB has? The winner of their all-star game receives the prestigious home-field advantage in the World Series in October. If the NHL did this, perhaps the leagues all-stars would be more inclined to attend the game. Maybe they would do even more than just attend but maybe actually play? Hockey’s all-star game has to be the dullest of the big four sport’s leagues. With high scores and no body checking, adding some significance to the game would change this. Maybe we would see Battle of Ontario rivals Alfredsson and Kessel on a line setting each other up for a chance to win home-ice advantage in the Stanley Cup Finals. With both teams in the playoff hunt, they would be thirsty for that opportunity.
The idea of combining the All-Star game with the Winter Classic has also been conjured up. It would be a unique experience for the players and the fans but it would really limit where the game could be held. Definitely something the NHL would not go for. The league has higher drop out rates than Rick DiPietro injuries. Something must be done so your move next, NHL.
- Dillon (hi_dillon)
The NHL has a serious problem with its “All-Star” game. Note the quotation marks, because it isn’t much of a showcase for the league’s top talent these days. Players like superstar Alexander Ovechkin, captain serious Jonathan Toews and Hall of Fame bound Niklas Lidstrom have chosen to opt out of the game and relax for a few days. What kind of message is the league sending allowing these players to do this? Remember: this game is supposed to be for the fans.
The players have an obligation to the fans, who each and every night go out and pay good money to watch them play. The least they could do is attend one weekend mid-season to celebrate the game they love and salute the fans. Apparently, this is easier said than done.
But can you really blame the players? With the game having no real meaning, why would they not take the opportunity to vacation with their families or recover from nagging injuries? Other leagues such as the NBA and NFL have no issues with their crème de la crop players opting out and their games have no influence on the rest of the season. The NFL entices players with their Pro Bowl with a trip to beautiful Hawaii... something tells me that’s a little more appealing than a visit to the cold surroundings of our nation’s capital. Perhaps the All-Star game should have some implication on the rest of the season like MLB has? The winner of their all-star game receives the prestigious home-field advantage in the World Series in October. If the NHL did this, perhaps the leagues all-stars would be more inclined to attend the game. Maybe they would do even more than just attend but maybe actually play? Hockey’s all-star game has to be the dullest of the big four sport’s leagues. With high scores and no body checking, adding some significance to the game would change this. Maybe we would see Battle of Ontario rivals Alfredsson and Kessel on a line setting each other up for a chance to win home-ice advantage in the Stanley Cup Finals. With both teams in the playoff hunt, they would be thirsty for that opportunity.
The idea of combining the All-Star game with the Winter Classic has also been conjured up. It would be a unique experience for the players and the fans but it would really limit where the game could be held. Definitely something the NHL would not go for. The league has higher drop out rates than Rick DiPietro injuries. Something must be done so your move next, NHL.
- Dillon (hi_dillon)
Monday, January 9, 2012
The Big 5: Weekend in Review and Plus/Minus
That was one crazy weekend in the NHL. Highlighted by injuries, pancakes, milestones and (pending) Shanabans, our first full weekend of 2012 had it all! Here are the five things that you probably shouldn't have missed out on from the weekend that was:
- Saturday afternoon in Boston was the stage for Game 8 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Final. The two best teams in the league entered the game with an entire series' worth of trash-talk and it has not stopped since. The game wasn't five minutes old when the two rivals engaged in a melee that saw Milan Lucic get thrown out of the game and lead the way for 11 (this is not a typo) Vancouver power plays. The game ended with angry coaches, a suspended Brad Marchand, hurt feelings, and an injured Sami Salo. But really, who's surprised about that one?
- It's difficult to feel sympathy for the Pittsburgh Penguins considering the wealth of talent they've had access to over the past few seasons, however it's getting to the point where us in the hockey community should probably start feeling sympathy...or just drop our jaws. This season the Pens have missed significant time from stars; Evgeni Malkin, Zbynek Michalek, Kris Letang, and in case you haven't heard: Sidney Crosby. Yet they've maintained a playoff spot all season and until a recent four-game skid they were near the top of the East. Unfortunately, their fortunes didn't improve on Sunday as they lost both James Neal and Jordan Staal to significant injuries. This will make for an interesting stretch-run for Disco Dan's boys. Count on them to pick up a top-6 forward at the trade deadline.
- Jarome Iginla added another credential to his Hall of Fame career on Saturday night by scoring his 500th career goal, all of which in a Calgary Flames uniform. A big Keon to Dion #K2D (start using this tag people, it's gonna be big!!!) congratulations to Jarome. Ever since Theo Fleury was traded 1998/1999 season, Jarome has been the face of the franchise and the only consistent star that they have had. Not that I want him to skip town on his team, but wouldn't it be great to see this man with a big fat Stanley Cup ring on his finger? Don't pull a Sundin, Jarome.
- The Ottawa All-Stars visited the City of Brotherly Love on Saturday afternoon and despite all odds, the home team won. Danny Briere got in a fight and scored a hat-trick, including the game-winner with six seconds left in OT because he's amazing. Why oh why hasn't the Little Man from Gatineau ever been considered for Team Canada? He plays a much bigger game than his 5'10", 170 lb stature would suggest.
- OH MY GOD THEY'RE HAVING A FIRE...SALE! Depending on who you talk to, the Anaheim Ducks have hauled almost everyone onto the front lawn of the Honda Center to go home with whoever makes the best offer. Rumours include Corey Perry to Vancouver (please God no), Ryan Getzlaf to Toronto (please God, do it) and Bobby Ryan to *insert whatever team is being speculated about this week here*. GM Bob Murray still maintains that the Ducks intend to compete to a playoff spot, which will likely require these three fellas. If Murray intends on making the playoffs, he'd better alert the team pretty soon.
- It was a weekend of milestones: Jarome's 500th goal, Ollie Jokinen's 1000th career game, John Tavares' 200th game (156 career points...UN-DER-RATED), and Sami Salo's 3000th career injury.
I can't wait to see what next weekend brings.
PLUS/MINUS
The plus of the weekend obviously goes to Jarome Iginla and his goal-scoring milestone. Something that can't be forgotten though is that Shane Doan scored his first career hat-trick in dramatic fashion. These accomplishments couldn't have been earned by two greater dudes.
Minus of the weekend: Dustin Penner. The man has been criticized over his career for being slow and out of shape, and for being wildly injury prone. It seems that he's managed to combine the two with his most recent pancake related injury. Dustin Penner threw out his back while eating pancakes. The man creates his own punchlines doesn't he? Your move Kyle Wellwood!
Cheers,
@BradMac91
@KeontoDion #K2D
- Saturday afternoon in Boston was the stage for Game 8 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Final. The two best teams in the league entered the game with an entire series' worth of trash-talk and it has not stopped since. The game wasn't five minutes old when the two rivals engaged in a melee that saw Milan Lucic get thrown out of the game and lead the way for 11 (this is not a typo) Vancouver power plays. The game ended with angry coaches, a suspended Brad Marchand, hurt feelings, and an injured Sami Salo. But really, who's surprised about that one?
- It's difficult to feel sympathy for the Pittsburgh Penguins considering the wealth of talent they've had access to over the past few seasons, however it's getting to the point where us in the hockey community should probably start feeling sympathy...or just drop our jaws. This season the Pens have missed significant time from stars; Evgeni Malkin, Zbynek Michalek, Kris Letang, and in case you haven't heard: Sidney Crosby. Yet they've maintained a playoff spot all season and until a recent four-game skid they were near the top of the East. Unfortunately, their fortunes didn't improve on Sunday as they lost both James Neal and Jordan Staal to significant injuries. This will make for an interesting stretch-run for Disco Dan's boys. Count on them to pick up a top-6 forward at the trade deadline.
- Jarome Iginla added another credential to his Hall of Fame career on Saturday night by scoring his 500th career goal, all of which in a Calgary Flames uniform. A big Keon to Dion #K2D (start using this tag people, it's gonna be big!!!) congratulations to Jarome. Ever since Theo Fleury was traded 1998/1999 season, Jarome has been the face of the franchise and the only consistent star that they have had. Not that I want him to skip town on his team, but wouldn't it be great to see this man with a big fat Stanley Cup ring on his finger? Don't pull a Sundin, Jarome.
- The Ottawa All-Stars visited the City of Brotherly Love on Saturday afternoon and despite all odds, the home team won. Danny Briere got in a fight and scored a hat-trick, including the game-winner with six seconds left in OT because he's amazing. Why oh why hasn't the Little Man from Gatineau ever been considered for Team Canada? He plays a much bigger game than his 5'10", 170 lb stature would suggest.
- OH MY GOD THEY'RE HAVING A FIRE...SALE! Depending on who you talk to, the Anaheim Ducks have hauled almost everyone onto the front lawn of the Honda Center to go home with whoever makes the best offer. Rumours include Corey Perry to Vancouver (please God no), Ryan Getzlaf to Toronto (please God, do it) and Bobby Ryan to *insert whatever team is being speculated about this week here*. GM Bob Murray still maintains that the Ducks intend to compete to a playoff spot, which will likely require these three fellas. If Murray intends on making the playoffs, he'd better alert the team pretty soon.
- It was a weekend of milestones: Jarome's 500th goal, Ollie Jokinen's 1000th career game, John Tavares' 200th game (156 career points...UN-DER-RATED), and Sami Salo's 3000th career injury.
I can't wait to see what next weekend brings.
PLUS/MINUS
The plus of the weekend obviously goes to Jarome Iginla and his goal-scoring milestone. Something that can't be forgotten though is that Shane Doan scored his first career hat-trick in dramatic fashion. These accomplishments couldn't have been earned by two greater dudes.
Minus of the weekend: Dustin Penner. The man has been criticized over his career for being slow and out of shape, and for being wildly injury prone. It seems that he's managed to combine the two with his most recent pancake related injury. Dustin Penner threw out his back while eating pancakes. The man creates his own punchlines doesn't he? Your move Kyle Wellwood!
Cheers,
@BradMac91
@KeontoDion #K2D
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Sticking it to the man in the Northeast
The rival cities of Montreal and Toronto have had their share of stories swirling around and being blown up by their respective media bodies this season, and their most memorable ones have occurred over the past two weeks.
In mid-December, the Montreal Canadiens fired their Francophone head coach Jacques Martin in favour in the INTERIM English-speaking, Randy Cunneyworth. Cunneyworth seems to be the equivalent of an "Untouchable" in the Indian caste system to most Quebeckers. Fans were so outraged that their dismal bunch of garden gnomes (and Hal Gill) being coached by an English-speaker, that it seemed appropriate for their owner Geoff Molson to come forward and apologize to the masses in case they were offended by the move, and make it clear that Cunneyworth's job came with an INTERIM tag. Talk about a vote of confidence eh?
This saga has continued into 2012, with Montreal fans organizing an anti-Cunneyworth protest which occurred on Saturday night prior to the Canadiens home matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
A few hours after the protest, the Canadiens skated away with a solid 3-1 victory. Big statement achieved I'd say.
Earlier this week several hours west in Toronto, Brian Burke lamented the loss of Colton Orr and the demise of the "enforcer-era". Yet on Saturday night in Toronto, in the final moments of their matchup with the ageless wonder Detroit Red Wings the Leafs were clinging to a 4-3 lead. The men charged with taking a face-off in their own end, and protecting that lead were the men of the Leafs fourth line: Mike Brown, Darryl Boyce, and Joey Crabb. These men effectively handled the final minute to seal the victory for the home team, with no goons in sight. Good on the useful fourth-liners for closing one out.
The words from the fans and powers that be can keep flying, but these stories prove that the naysayers and pundits can often be the best motivators. Good on both teams for getting the job done.
In mid-December, the Montreal Canadiens fired their Francophone head coach Jacques Martin in favour in the INTERIM English-speaking, Randy Cunneyworth. Cunneyworth seems to be the equivalent of an "Untouchable" in the Indian caste system to most Quebeckers. Fans were so outraged that their dismal bunch of garden gnomes (and Hal Gill) being coached by an English-speaker, that it seemed appropriate for their owner Geoff Molson to come forward and apologize to the masses in case they were offended by the move, and make it clear that Cunneyworth's job came with an INTERIM tag. Talk about a vote of confidence eh?
This saga has continued into 2012, with Montreal fans organizing an anti-Cunneyworth protest which occurred on Saturday night prior to the Canadiens home matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
A few hours after the protest, the Canadiens skated away with a solid 3-1 victory. Big statement achieved I'd say.
Earlier this week several hours west in Toronto, Brian Burke lamented the loss of Colton Orr and the demise of the "enforcer-era". Yet on Saturday night in Toronto, in the final moments of their matchup with the ageless wonder Detroit Red Wings the Leafs were clinging to a 4-3 lead. The men charged with taking a face-off in their own end, and protecting that lead were the men of the Leafs fourth line: Mike Brown, Darryl Boyce, and Joey Crabb. These men effectively handled the final minute to seal the victory for the home team, with no goons in sight. Good on the useful fourth-liners for closing one out.
The words from the fans and powers that be can keep flying, but these stories prove that the naysayers and pundits can often be the best motivators. Good on both teams for getting the job done.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
NHL "Rat Infestation" Can Be Solved
The always truculent Brian Burke, stepped up to the podium late yesterday morning with a burr in his saddle. Having watched the equally truculent Colton Orr be passed over by 29 other teams on the waiver-wire, the happy Irishman decided it was time for him to express his opinions on the state of the league.
Burke feels that the only way to deal with the "rats" in the NHL today, is to have "non-skilled" guys who only match up against each other, take 5-minute shifts, and tune each other up in the process. I'm not really sure how this solves the problem, because I'm pretty sure in the fighter's "code" a Colton Orr, isn't allowed to go after a Max Lapierre.
Of course rats like Raffi Torres, Steve Downie, and Dan Carcillo are still running around and making the NHL a dangerous place, however some truly sensible Shanabans really could fix this situation. 5 game, and 7 game suspensions aren't enough. Torres and company have been given too much rope in the past, and Brendan Shanahan needs to take a stand. If you want to make these guys start to listen, slap them with 20+ game suspensions. Those sorts of suspensions will not only get the perpetrators thinking, it will get the guys signing their pay cheques thinking too. Does Stan Bowman really want to be shelling out hundreds of thousands of dollars for a dude who's not allowed to play? I don't think so. The NHL's "rat problem" can be solved with a solid extermination effort by Shanahan.
An elimination of rat-like behaviour would eliminate the need for goons like Colton Orr (who I'm sure really is a swell guy) and make way for a safer and more skilled NHL.
Burke feels that the only way to deal with the "rats" in the NHL today, is to have "non-skilled" guys who only match up against each other, take 5-minute shifts, and tune each other up in the process. I'm not really sure how this solves the problem, because I'm pretty sure in the fighter's "code" a Colton Orr, isn't allowed to go after a Max Lapierre.
Of course rats like Raffi Torres, Steve Downie, and Dan Carcillo are still running around and making the NHL a dangerous place, however some truly sensible Shanabans really could fix this situation. 5 game, and 7 game suspensions aren't enough. Torres and company have been given too much rope in the past, and Brendan Shanahan needs to take a stand. If you want to make these guys start to listen, slap them with 20+ game suspensions. Those sorts of suspensions will not only get the perpetrators thinking, it will get the guys signing their pay cheques thinking too. Does Stan Bowman really want to be shelling out hundreds of thousands of dollars for a dude who's not allowed to play? I don't think so. The NHL's "rat problem" can be solved with a solid extermination effort by Shanahan.
An elimination of rat-like behaviour would eliminate the need for goons like Colton Orr (who I'm sure really is a swell guy) and make way for a safer and more skilled NHL.