I think I must be some sort of shootout magnet. Three out of four of the games I have managed to watch this season have gone to a shootout - I suppose I must apologize to those who dislike the practice, expect December and January to have a lot of shootouts if current trends continue.
But let's rewind to Wednesday, when the Canes made a trade. They acquired Ian White and Brett Sutter from Calgary for Tom Kostopoulos and Anton Babchuk, Sutter being waived the next day to be sent to Albany. (For those wondering, Sutter is current Cane Brandon Sutter's cousin). Having seen him in action, I can say that White is a smallish defenseman who looks to be pretty solid in the defensive zone - he stepped in pretty well in a pairing with Joni Pitkanen both Friday and Saturday.
I'd say, from this early vantage point, that it's a good trade for the Canes. White seems like a good defenseman, who would certainly be an upgrade from Anton Babchuk's flightiness (I'm not too sad to see him and his seasons in Russia go, although his slapshot might be missed.) Kostopoulos is a good character guy, but not a core part of the Canes team. And I won't miss struggling to spell his name while blogging.
Also on Wednesday the Canes won 7-1 over the Ottawa Senators. Generally a win of this goal differential would be something I'd celebrate, but it doesn't seem right to be cheerful, as the Senators had attended the funeral of the assistant coach's daughter earlier that day.
So let's move on to the two games I was able to view, one on the television, and one in person. The former was a 5-4 shootout loss to the Penguins. I thought the Canes played extremely well in this game, constantly battling back from being down a goal. They really played up to the Penguins level, which I was certainly not expecting, having seen the boxscores from the previous week. They also got a point in the standings, in spite of the refs (and the War Room in Toronto), who showed that they could use a new contact and hearing aid prescription. A goal in the third period was allowed for the Pens where the whistle was clearly blown before the puck crossed the goal line. Luckily, the Canes were able to come back once again so that the call didn't cost them the entire game.
The next shootout loss was last night against the Predators. Where the Pittsburgh game was offensively powered and fun to watch, the Nashville one was defensively driven and kind of a snoozefest.
Interestingly, the same three shooters were chosen for both shootouts - Jeff Skinner, Jussi Jokinen, and Patrick O'Sullivan. Skinner and Jokinen I understand, but I just do not understand the choice of O'Sullivan. Granted, he didn't get to show his stuff in the shootout against Pittsburgh, but I wasn't impressed last night. I somehow get the feeling that Paul Maurice keeps writing down "8" thinking Matt Cullen's on the bench, and then is somewhat disappointed when he realizes it's a different guy in the jersey.
Anyways... a more successful week for the Canes than the previous, I'd say. I was very impressed with the play against Pittsburgh - definitely gives me hope for playing well in other close games this season. Currently the Canes are 9th in the East and 4th in the Southeast with 20 points - movin' on up. Up next for the Canes are the C[r]aptials on Wednesday and the Bruins on Friday - not easy matchups in any sense. Hopefully they can play like they did this past Friday and maybe get a win out of one of them.
And my final thought for this post: Make sure you're voting for the All-Star Game! I'm officially on the Paul Bissonnette bandwagon!
Erik Cole stats (Wednesday): 1 assist
On the season: 4 goals, 6 assists
Chad LaRose stats (Wednesday): 2 goals, 2 assists
On the season: 6 goals, 6 assists
Showing posts with label Anton Babchuk. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Anton Babchuk. Show all posts
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Friday, July 02, 2010
Well, that was anticlimactic
Well, the opening of free agency has passed, and really, it doesn't seem like the blockbuster year some were making it out to be. Of course, my view is slightly skewed as the Canes did next to nothing, so perhaps that's why it seems so boring.
However, the Canes didn't do nothing, they signed Anton Babchuk to a one year $1.4 million deal. It seems like a little much money-wise to me for a guy who has left the team twice to go to Russia and at times is streaky. But, I suppose it's based on his potential, which hopefully he'll live up to. (I'm not sad that he's bringing his slapshot back to the US, that's for sure).
The other news with the Canes is who has left the fold. Matt Cullen (although he wasn't playing with the team at the end of the season) signed with the Wild for a 3-year $10.5 million deal. Ray Whitney, to no surprise, left as well, Phoenix signing him to a 2-year deal that should pay about $3 million dollars per. Both are slightly overpriced in my opinon, Cullen because he doesn't seem like he would produce the numbers for that sort of money and Whitney because, while he has had some excellent seasons recently, is getting up there in age. (For reference, his 58 point season last season was the lowest for him since '05-'06.)
Around the league the story was a high asking price for goaltenders and defensemen. My favorite laughable contract of the day was Derek Boogaard's 4 year deal with the Rangers that will pay him $1.65 million per. This is a guy whose last goal was in the '05-'06 season. Hey, I guess from that point of view, Anton Babchuk is a steal!
However, the Canes didn't do nothing, they signed Anton Babchuk to a one year $1.4 million deal. It seems like a little much money-wise to me for a guy who has left the team twice to go to Russia and at times is streaky. But, I suppose it's based on his potential, which hopefully he'll live up to. (I'm not sad that he's bringing his slapshot back to the US, that's for sure).
The other news with the Canes is who has left the fold. Matt Cullen (although he wasn't playing with the team at the end of the season) signed with the Wild for a 3-year $10.5 million deal. Ray Whitney, to no surprise, left as well, Phoenix signing him to a 2-year deal that should pay about $3 million dollars per. Both are slightly overpriced in my opinon, Cullen because he doesn't seem like he would produce the numbers for that sort of money and Whitney because, while he has had some excellent seasons recently, is getting up there in age. (For reference, his 58 point season last season was the lowest for him since '05-'06.)
Around the league the story was a high asking price for goaltenders and defensemen. My favorite laughable contract of the day was Derek Boogaard's 4 year deal with the Rangers that will pay him $1.65 million per. This is a guy whose last goal was in the '05-'06 season. Hey, I guess from that point of view, Anton Babchuk is a steal!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Thoughts after Two
So both of the Conference Finals have played two games, and there are two 2-0 leads.
First up, the East. It looks like the Canadiens' Cinderella run may have come to an end. The Flyers have completely dominated them in both games, winning 6-0 in the first game, and then 3-0 in Game 2.
Hm... having a Cinderella run after being a low seed abruptly end in the Conference Finals... I'm sure us Caniacs have no idea how that feels...
Granted, the series isn't over yet, and if the Flyers of last round have taught us anything, it's that the near-impossible can happen in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. And the Canadiens have come back in a series already this playoff season against the C[r]apitals - but they're going to have to play significantly better in their next games if they want to accomplish the feat again.
The Western Finals have produced games that are definitely more interesting, although still with the same lopsided series result. The first game came down to the last minute, the Sharks receiving a powerplay and could have tied the game, but Antti Niemi came up strong and the Blackhawks won 2-1.
Game 2 didn't come down to the wire in the same way, but it was certainly closer than the Eastern Conference game that was aired before it. Ex-Cane Andrew Ladd had a very nice goal to open up scoring for the Hawks. The Blackhawks went on to score two more and the Sharks couldn't recover and lost the game 4-2.
And, just a question, but one that's been bothering me for a while. Dustin Byfuglien. Apparently, his last name is pronounced "Buff-lin". WHERE DOES THE 'G' GO?! Seriously, who looked at that last name and came up with that pronunciation? Although, it makes me curious to see how Chuck Kaiton would say it on the radio...
Finally, I've been a little lax in Canes news of late, so let me get you caught up. Last Thursday the Canes traded a 5th round pick to Phoenix for Jared Staal, Eric's youngest brother. Then on Friday they signed him to an entry-level contract. Apparently Jared is not the instant NHL sensation that his other forward brothers were, expected to stay in the minors for a bit longer. But I can't see an issue with having another Staal in the system, when the others have turned out so well.
Recent news is that Anton Babchuk may be back on his way to the States, Rutherford sounding confident that he'll be back this season. Our blueline has definitely missed his slapshot in his absence, but I can't help but remember how he completely disappeared in the 2009 playoffs. He has extreme amounts of potential... but potential that has only seemed to have shown in spurts throughout his career with the Canes. Although, I suppose the worst that could happen with his return is that he sits in the press box.
Well, that's all I've got for today! Playoff games resume on Thursday with Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final.
First up, the East. It looks like the Canadiens' Cinderella run may have come to an end. The Flyers have completely dominated them in both games, winning 6-0 in the first game, and then 3-0 in Game 2.
Hm... having a Cinderella run after being a low seed abruptly end in the Conference Finals... I'm sure us Caniacs have no idea how that feels...
Granted, the series isn't over yet, and if the Flyers of last round have taught us anything, it's that the near-impossible can happen in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. And the Canadiens have come back in a series already this playoff season against the C[r]apitals - but they're going to have to play significantly better in their next games if they want to accomplish the feat again.
The Western Finals have produced games that are definitely more interesting, although still with the same lopsided series result. The first game came down to the last minute, the Sharks receiving a powerplay and could have tied the game, but Antti Niemi came up strong and the Blackhawks won 2-1.
Game 2 didn't come down to the wire in the same way, but it was certainly closer than the Eastern Conference game that was aired before it. Ex-Cane Andrew Ladd had a very nice goal to open up scoring for the Hawks. The Blackhawks went on to score two more and the Sharks couldn't recover and lost the game 4-2.
And, just a question, but one that's been bothering me for a while. Dustin Byfuglien. Apparently, his last name is pronounced "Buff-lin". WHERE DOES THE 'G' GO?! Seriously, who looked at that last name and came up with that pronunciation? Although, it makes me curious to see how Chuck Kaiton would say it on the radio...
Finally, I've been a little lax in Canes news of late, so let me get you caught up. Last Thursday the Canes traded a 5th round pick to Phoenix for Jared Staal, Eric's youngest brother. Then on Friday they signed him to an entry-level contract. Apparently Jared is not the instant NHL sensation that his other forward brothers were, expected to stay in the minors for a bit longer. But I can't see an issue with having another Staal in the system, when the others have turned out so well.
Recent news is that Anton Babchuk may be back on his way to the States, Rutherford sounding confident that he'll be back this season. Our blueline has definitely missed his slapshot in his absence, but I can't help but remember how he completely disappeared in the 2009 playoffs. He has extreme amounts of potential... but potential that has only seemed to have shown in spurts throughout his career with the Canes. Although, I suppose the worst that could happen with his return is that he sits in the press box.
Well, that's all I've got for today! Playoff games resume on Thursday with Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Preseason update
Well, we're right in the swing of the preseason now. On Monday the Canes dropped a game to Atlanta 4-2, with Brandon Sutter and Bryan Rodney notching scores. Considering I wasn't able to listen to the game and the recap is all of four paragraphs, I'm going to assume nothing exciting happened.
The goal by Rodney couldn't keep him in the big leagues, as he along with four others got sent to Albany on Tuesday.
Not reporting to Albany this year will be Anton Babchuk, who has supposedly signed in Russia for this season. Essentially the news of this was greeted by a *shrug* and a whatever from Jim Rutherford because that means Babchuk still doesn't have arbitration rights. So I'm thinking the Canes sit on his rights until a trade comes along or Babchuk wants to play under the contract the Canes give him. Either way the Canes have the upper hand and seem content to wait it out (especially because it looks like we might have a defense this year!).
Aaannndddd... that's all for now, folks! Canes play Atlanta again tomorrow at the RBC Center!
The goal by Rodney couldn't keep him in the big leagues, as he along with four others got sent to Albany on Tuesday.
Not reporting to Albany this year will be Anton Babchuk, who has supposedly signed in Russia for this season. Essentially the news of this was greeted by a *shrug* and a whatever from Jim Rutherford because that means Babchuk still doesn't have arbitration rights. So I'm thinking the Canes sit on his rights until a trade comes along or Babchuk wants to play under the contract the Canes give him. Either way the Canes have the upper hand and seem content to wait it out (especially because it looks like we might have a defense this year!).
Aaannndddd... that's all for now, folks! Canes play Atlanta again tomorrow at the RBC Center!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Canes sign d-man
Proving that I really should check Twitter before I push the "publish" button, the Canes just signed Andrew Alberts, a 28 year-old defenseman, to a two-year/~1mil contract.
And, what I think is the best news, the dude is 6'5". And he led the Flyers in hits last season. Finally (F-I-N-A-L-L-Y-!), the Canes are signing big physical players!
I'm not entirely sure what this could signify in Seidenberg or Babchuk's situations, but at this point I don't care too much. I mean, seriously, the Canes have signed two physical players in two days. When was the last time that happened?
Maybe tomorrow the signing of Ruutu would make it a hat trick...
And, what I think is the best news, the dude is 6'5". And he led the Flyers in hits last season. Finally (F-I-N-A-L-L-Y-!), the Canes are signing big physical players!
I'm not entirely sure what this could signify in Seidenberg or Babchuk's situations, but at this point I don't care too much. I mean, seriously, the Canes have signed two physical players in two days. When was the last time that happened?
Maybe tomorrow the signing of Ruutu would make it a hat trick...
Friday, July 10, 2009
News from the offseason
News from the offseason (complete with stilted sentences because coherent thinking is totally not made for when school is out):
Signs that the next season is getting closer (but still dreadfully far away) were seen in the past few days. The Canes released their preseason schedule, which consists of four games with the Predators and Thrashers being the opponents. The full regular season schedule will be released on the 15th (Wednesday!), which coincidentally is the start of the prospect conditioning camp.
The Canes are continuing to try and solidify the ranks for the next season, signing Jay Harrison to a two-way contract. There is also talk of buying out Frank Kaberle to help save the team some money. If the Canes would manage to sign someone good I wouldn't be against such a move - as of now I really don't see that our defensive depth has improved since the last season (especially with Anton Babchuk looking to take his wicked slapshot back to Russia), so currently I don't think Kaberle being on or off the team really makes a difference.
You may have seen that the Canes made the 1st-of-the-NHL, 2nd-overall position in ESPN the Magazine's Ultimate Team Rankings. Rutherford has some nice things to say about us fans in an open letter about the rankings.
All I have to say is finally - FINALLY! - the Canes are getting some respect from a national source. We Caniacs have known all along how awesome hockey in the Triangle is - it's nice to see other people wising up to that fact as well.
Signs that the next season is getting closer (but still dreadfully far away) were seen in the past few days. The Canes released their preseason schedule, which consists of four games with the Predators and Thrashers being the opponents. The full regular season schedule will be released on the 15th (Wednesday!), which coincidentally is the start of the prospect conditioning camp.
The Canes are continuing to try and solidify the ranks for the next season, signing Jay Harrison to a two-way contract. There is also talk of buying out Frank Kaberle to help save the team some money. If the Canes would manage to sign someone good I wouldn't be against such a move - as of now I really don't see that our defensive depth has improved since the last season (especially with Anton Babchuk looking to take his wicked slapshot back to Russia), so currently I don't think Kaberle being on or off the team really makes a difference.
You may have seen that the Canes made the 1st-of-the-NHL, 2nd-overall position in ESPN the Magazine's Ultimate Team Rankings. Rutherford has some nice things to say about us fans in an open letter about the rankings.
All I have to say is finally - FINALLY! - the Canes are getting some respect from a national source. We Caniacs have known all along how awesome hockey in the Triangle is - it's nice to see other people wising up to that fact as well.
Monday, June 01, 2009
Free agency as I see it
Well, the season's over for the Canes (if the Red Wings keep at it, it'll be the end of the season for everyone in about two more games...), and now it's time to turn away from that painful last series to look to... the future!
(That sentence is a lot cooler if you imagine cymbals crashing and sparks flying as "the future" is spoken in one of those movie trailer voices. Seriously, read it again and try it.)
Yes, now is the time to focus on the upcoming season, and more importantly the upcoming free agency period. The Canes have seven players up for some kind of free agency and the topics range from performance to salary cap.
But the topic I'm going to cover is the most important of all:
Do I really want to watch you play in a Canes uniform next season?
In order of importance:
Leaving is not an option
Chad LaRose
Explanation: Chad LaRose is the heart and soul of this team. You can't just let the heart and soul walk away from the team. Us Caniacs would be left with a pathetic, soul-less team - a zombie team destined to wander the ice rinks hopelessly searching for a spark of life. And I think we've had enough of that nonsense.
I like you a lot. Please stay!
Jussi Jokinen
Explanation: Our playoff hero. Do we really want him to go? Heck no! I know that he wasn't the most significant player in the regular season, but he certainly made up for that in the playoffs, pulling the Canes' butts through several games (and to think that Tampa wanted to waive him?). Not to mention his shootout prowess doesn't hurt either.
Tuomo Ruutu
Explanation: Take away Tuomo, take away our physical presence. It's as simple as that. He didn't score as much in the playoffs as he did in the regular season, but I think he made up for it in the fact that he often went through people to go after the puck. Not to mention - we just can't lose a guy with a name as awesome as that.
Erik Cole
Explanation: Yeah, okay, I probably have Cole ranked a little higher than he should be - but I don't think I can stand losing my favorite player again. He didn't do that great in the playoffs, but the Canes started to turn around their season when he was added to the team. Coincidence? I beg to differ.
Sure, come back. Whatever.
Ryan Bayda
Explanation: He filled in on the lower lines when he was needed. Not the greatest, not too shabby though. He's been with the Canes organization for a while (finally cracked the big leagues!), so sure he can come back.
I'm not sold on this whole "You playing for us again" thing. Why don't you run it by me again?
Dennis Seidenberg
Explanation: I said to my dad before the beginning of Game 4 that "We have a plethora of useless defensemen." I wouldn't say that Seidenberg is useless (it's called hyperbole), but he just seems to be a part of a nameless defensive corps the Canes put on the ice every year. Not that bad, although the mistakes can be miserable to watch.
Anton Babchuk
Explanation: Unlike Seidenberg, Babchuk certainly has made a name for himself. His killer slapshot makes him nothing like a cookie cutter player. But (and maybe this is a case of "what have you done for me lately?") he completely tanked in the playoffs. It was like he was a traffic cone that the opposing team skated circles around - and we saw absolutely none of his miraculous slapshot. I mean, seriously, the guy was replaced with Frank Kaberle. That's pretty bad.
So, there you go. My analysis of the Canes' upcoming free agents (quite possibly the longest thing I've ever written for this blog). And probably the only Canes stuff that we'll be talking about for a long time.
(That sentence is a lot cooler if you imagine cymbals crashing and sparks flying as "the future" is spoken in one of those movie trailer voices. Seriously, read it again and try it.)
Yes, now is the time to focus on the upcoming season, and more importantly the upcoming free agency period. The Canes have seven players up for some kind of free agency and the topics range from performance to salary cap.
But the topic I'm going to cover is the most important of all:
Do I really want to watch you play in a Canes uniform next season?
In order of importance:
Leaving is not an option
Chad LaRose
Explanation: Chad LaRose is the heart and soul of this team. You can't just let the heart and soul walk away from the team. Us Caniacs would be left with a pathetic, soul-less team - a zombie team destined to wander the ice rinks hopelessly searching for a spark of life. And I think we've had enough of that nonsense.
I like you a lot. Please stay!
Jussi Jokinen
Explanation: Our playoff hero. Do we really want him to go? Heck no! I know that he wasn't the most significant player in the regular season, but he certainly made up for that in the playoffs, pulling the Canes' butts through several games (and to think that Tampa wanted to waive him?). Not to mention his shootout prowess doesn't hurt either.
Tuomo Ruutu
Explanation: Take away Tuomo, take away our physical presence. It's as simple as that. He didn't score as much in the playoffs as he did in the regular season, but I think he made up for it in the fact that he often went through people to go after the puck. Not to mention - we just can't lose a guy with a name as awesome as that.
Erik Cole
Explanation: Yeah, okay, I probably have Cole ranked a little higher than he should be - but I don't think I can stand losing my favorite player again. He didn't do that great in the playoffs, but the Canes started to turn around their season when he was added to the team. Coincidence? I beg to differ.
Sure, come back. Whatever.
Ryan Bayda
Explanation: He filled in on the lower lines when he was needed. Not the greatest, not too shabby though. He's been with the Canes organization for a while (finally cracked the big leagues!), so sure he can come back.
I'm not sold on this whole "You playing for us again" thing. Why don't you run it by me again?
Dennis Seidenberg
Explanation: I said to my dad before the beginning of Game 4 that "We have a plethora of useless defensemen." I wouldn't say that Seidenberg is useless (it's called hyperbole), but he just seems to be a part of a nameless defensive corps the Canes put on the ice every year. Not that bad, although the mistakes can be miserable to watch.
Anton Babchuk
Explanation: Unlike Seidenberg, Babchuk certainly has made a name for himself. His killer slapshot makes him nothing like a cookie cutter player. But (and maybe this is a case of "what have you done for me lately?") he completely tanked in the playoffs. It was like he was a traffic cone that the opposing team skated circles around - and we saw absolutely none of his miraculous slapshot. I mean, seriously, the guy was replaced with Frank Kaberle. That's pretty bad.
So, there you go. My analysis of the Canes' upcoming free agents (quite possibly the longest thing I've ever written for this blog). And probably the only Canes stuff that we'll be talking about for a long time.
Monday, April 13, 2009
And so it begins...
It just ain't the playoffs until the Canes play the Devils.
Series starts Wednesday and is every other day after that, meaning the first game at the RBC Center is on Sunday (tailgating weather as of right now is 72 and "chance showers").
I feel pretty confident about this series, actually. The Canes have been playing very well recently, and have played New Jersey well all season (Bonus stat: Anton Babchuk has four goals and an assist in four games against the Devils). As long as Cam Ward outplays Martin Brodeur (certainly possible - just check 2006) I think the Canes will win.
Although, nothing is certain, especially with this team's ability to tank at inappropriate times...
As for the rest of the playoff series... meh, whatever. Predicting these things is so overrated (read: I suck at predicting playoff series). Pretty much any other non-Canes hockey we will see is going to involve Ovechkin or Crosby thanks to the national media man-crushes on them.
But, I guess that's good, as I won't have to deal with the stupid in-game reporters reporting stupidly during Canes games. I can handle John and Tripp for a playoff series.
Anyways, my "Hockey Orphan" post is up at Cycle Like the Sedins. And I even have a cool little icon too! See:
Huh. Well, it's not that "little" when I upload it, but whatever... Anyways, check it out - the post actually has an endgame/conclusion, unlike most of the posts around here (including this one).
Series starts Wednesday and is every other day after that, meaning the first game at the RBC Center is on Sunday (tailgating weather as of right now is 72 and "chance showers").
I feel pretty confident about this series, actually. The Canes have been playing very well recently, and have played New Jersey well all season (Bonus stat: Anton Babchuk has four goals and an assist in four games against the Devils). As long as Cam Ward outplays Martin Brodeur (certainly possible - just check 2006) I think the Canes will win.
Although, nothing is certain, especially with this team's ability to tank at inappropriate times...
As for the rest of the playoff series... meh, whatever. Predicting these things is so overrated (read: I suck at predicting playoff series). Pretty much any other non-Canes hockey we will see is going to involve Ovechkin or Crosby thanks to the national media man-crushes on them.
But, I guess that's good, as I won't have to deal with the stupid in-game reporters reporting stupidly during Canes games. I can handle John and Tripp for a playoff series.
Anyways, my "Hockey Orphan" post is up at Cycle Like the Sedins. And I even have a cool little icon too! See:
Huh. Well, it's not that "little" when I upload it, but whatever... Anyways, check it out - the post actually has an endgame/conclusion, unlike most of the posts around here (including this one).Wednesday, April 08, 2009
A Beatdown in Raleigh
Canes stomped all over the Islanders last night, winning 9-0.
The Islanders just didn't show up for this game. They only ended up putting 12 shots on Cam Ward (versus the Canes' record 57).
I mean, I understand the Islanders being last in the league and everything... but couldn't they just try a little? Not to take away from the Canes performance in this game - they were spectactular - but the Islanders were just pathetic.
Eric Staal got a hat trick (fourth of the season) while Erik Cole and Anton Babchuk both picked up four assists. Points ahoy!
The Canes still remained tied with Philly for fourth - Philly has a game in hand for the opportunity of home-ice advantage for the second round.
Tomorrow's game is against Buffalo - I highly doubt it will as much of a rout as this one was. But I wouldn't complain if it was...
Erik Cole stats: 4 assists
With the Canes: 2 goals, 13 assists
On the season: 18 goals, 24 assists
The Islanders just didn't show up for this game. They only ended up putting 12 shots on Cam Ward (versus the Canes' record 57).
I mean, I understand the Islanders being last in the league and everything... but couldn't they just try a little? Not to take away from the Canes performance in this game - they were spectactular - but the Islanders were just pathetic.
Eric Staal got a hat trick (fourth of the season) while Erik Cole and Anton Babchuk both picked up four assists. Points ahoy!
The Canes still remained tied with Philly for fourth - Philly has a game in hand for the opportunity of home-ice advantage for the second round.
Tomorrow's game is against Buffalo - I highly doubt it will as much of a rout as this one was. But I wouldn't complain if it was...
Erik Cole stats: 4 assists
With the Canes: 2 goals, 13 assists
On the season: 18 goals, 24 assists
Sunday, April 05, 2009
We're in!!!!
The Canes clinched a playoff spot with an overtime win over the Penguins last night!
Unlike other recent games, the Canes didn't look as well put together in this one, relying heavily on Cam Ward to bail them out. Luckily, Ward was up to the task, blocking 35 shots (including an Evgeni Malkin penalty shot that shouldn't have been called because he got a shot off on the powerplay - but whatever) and just generally looking spectactular.
Chad LaRose notched another one, and Anton Babchuk blasted one in overtime to win the game and the playoff berth.
YaY! It's been far too long in Carolina without a postseason - I am so looking forward to it!
Oh, and video proof that Sean Avery is a punk (if you needed it, that is). Respect for Tim Thomas just went up about five notches after that.
Next game is Tuesday against the Islanders.
Erik Cole stats: 1 assist
With the Canes: 2 goals, 9 assists
On the season: 18 goals, 20 assists
Chad LaRose stats: 1 goal
On the season: 19 goals, 12 assists
Unlike other recent games, the Canes didn't look as well put together in this one, relying heavily on Cam Ward to bail them out. Luckily, Ward was up to the task, blocking 35 shots (including an Evgeni Malkin penalty shot that shouldn't have been called because he got a shot off on the powerplay - but whatever) and just generally looking spectactular.
Chad LaRose notched another one, and Anton Babchuk blasted one in overtime to win the game and the playoff berth.
YaY! It's been far too long in Carolina without a postseason - I am so looking forward to it!
Oh, and video proof that Sean Avery is a punk (if you needed it, that is). Respect for Tim Thomas just went up about five notches after that.
Next game is Tuesday against the Islanders.
Erik Cole stats: 1 assist
With the Canes: 2 goals, 9 assists
On the season: 18 goals, 20 assists
Chad LaRose stats: 1 goal
On the season: 19 goals, 12 assists
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Canes win two, get into 6th place
The Canes won both back-to-back games this weekend at home, putting them into 6th place in the standings.
The first game was a 5-4 win over the Islanders Friday. I did not see this game, but apparently the Canes gave up four consecutive goals to the Islanders in the second period. Yep, four goals to the worst team in the league. Good thing I wasn't watching. Luckily, they pulled it out, which I suppose is all that matters at this point in the season.
Then came the 4-1 win over the C[r]apitals last night, which was a very well-played game. Washington came out hitting, but the Canes were able to withstand the storm and score in the second period. Then they just took over in the third period, scoring three to put the game out of reach.
Might I say that Anton Babchuk is looking spectacular as of late? Not only has he scored with his excellent slapshot, he also has had a few right down in front of the net, like his in this game. I almost can't believe how good he's looked recently (I mean, seriously, a good defenseman playing consistently for the Canes? Doesn't that sound weird to you?).
The bad news, as it has been for the last few days, is that pretty much everyone around the Canes has two games in hand. But, if everyone wins out (which they won't, but hypothetically), the Canes would still be in eighth place even with the two less games - certainly some good news, as it means the Canes are in a much better place than they had been.
The next game is tomorrow against Florida - a big game for sure.
Erik Cole stats (Friday): 1 assist
With the Canes: 2 goals, 8 assists
On the season: 18 goals, 19 assists
Chad LaRose stats (Friday): 2 goals
(Saturday): 1 assist
On the season: 16 goals, 12 assists
The first game was a 5-4 win over the Islanders Friday. I did not see this game, but apparently the Canes gave up four consecutive goals to the Islanders in the second period. Yep, four goals to the worst team in the league. Good thing I wasn't watching. Luckily, they pulled it out, which I suppose is all that matters at this point in the season.
Then came the 4-1 win over the C[r]apitals last night, which was a very well-played game. Washington came out hitting, but the Canes were able to withstand the storm and score in the second period. Then they just took over in the third period, scoring three to put the game out of reach.
Might I say that Anton Babchuk is looking spectacular as of late? Not only has he scored with his excellent slapshot, he also has had a few right down in front of the net, like his in this game. I almost can't believe how good he's looked recently (I mean, seriously, a good defenseman playing consistently for the Canes? Doesn't that sound weird to you?).
The bad news, as it has been for the last few days, is that pretty much everyone around the Canes has two games in hand. But, if everyone wins out (which they won't, but hypothetically), the Canes would still be in eighth place even with the two less games - certainly some good news, as it means the Canes are in a much better place than they had been.
The next game is tomorrow against Florida - a big game for sure.
Erik Cole stats (Friday): 1 assist
With the Canes: 2 goals, 8 assists
On the season: 18 goals, 19 assists
Chad LaRose stats (Friday): 2 goals
(Saturday): 1 assist
On the season: 16 goals, 12 assists
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Anton Babchuk Strikes!
Canes were victorious over the Devils last night, winning 4-2.
Really, I think they were somewhat lucky in the win, with Martin Brodeur having gotten the all-time wins record the night before, and Kevin Weekes getting the spot in goal.
Not that the Canes wouldn't have won againt Brodeur - I just think it would have been a lot harder (for example, I don't think Brodeur would have gone in on the crappy pokecheck on Samsonov's goal).
The powerplay looked absolutely spectactular, going 3-for-5 on the night, two of the goals coming from Anton Babchuk.
The good news is that the Canes are still in eighth spot - tied for seventh with Montreal at 81 points. Most of the teams around them still have games in hand, though.
Canes play twice this weekend - back to back at home, first against the Islanders (which I won't see) and then against the C[r]apitals (which I might see). Hopefully they can get four points out of them, which would put the Canes in an even better spot for the playoffs.
Erik Cole stats: 1 assist
With the Canes: 2 goals, 7 assists
On the season: 18 goals, 18 assists
Really, I think they were somewhat lucky in the win, with Martin Brodeur having gotten the all-time wins record the night before, and Kevin Weekes getting the spot in goal.
Not that the Canes wouldn't have won againt Brodeur - I just think it would have been a lot harder (for example, I don't think Brodeur would have gone in on the crappy pokecheck on Samsonov's goal).
The powerplay looked absolutely spectactular, going 3-for-5 on the night, two of the goals coming from Anton Babchuk.
The good news is that the Canes are still in eighth spot - tied for seventh with Montreal at 81 points. Most of the teams around them still have games in hand, though.
Canes play twice this weekend - back to back at home, first against the Islanders (which I won't see) and then against the C[r]apitals (which I might see). Hopefully they can get four points out of them, which would put the Canes in an even better spot for the playoffs.
Erik Cole stats: 1 assist
With the Canes: 2 goals, 7 assists
On the season: 18 goals, 18 assists
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Canes beat Devils
Don't look now - we's got us a winning streak!
Canes won last night against the Devils 3-2. That makes four in a row! *knock on wood*
The game was okay. It was a defensively played game - after the Canes' first goal, neither team was making much offense. I think the Devils must only win their games if they score first, with that sort of mentality.
The Devils also did a very weird thing in the third period. Down by three midway through the period on a powerplay they pulled their goalie to make the PP a 6-on-4. It worked out for them on their first goal - but I couldn't help but wonder if they do it very often and if so, how many times has it backfired on them? I guess it makes sense if you're not scoring goals and there's nothing else to lose in the game... but I know that I would prefer that the Canes not do that strategy (particularly with their track record this season on the two man advantage...)
Babchuk is doing pretty well recently. He's scored points in four of the last five games, and he's certainly putting to use that wicked shot of his. Although, in this game, he had an excellent cross-ice pass to Tuomo Ruutu for the Canes third goal.
Next Canes game is tomorrow against Florida. Maybe we can keep the streak going?
Canes won last night against the Devils 3-2. That makes four in a row! *knock on wood*
The game was okay. It was a defensively played game - after the Canes' first goal, neither team was making much offense. I think the Devils must only win their games if they score first, with that sort of mentality.
The Devils also did a very weird thing in the third period. Down by three midway through the period on a powerplay they pulled their goalie to make the PP a 6-on-4. It worked out for them on their first goal - but I couldn't help but wonder if they do it very often and if so, how many times has it backfired on them? I guess it makes sense if you're not scoring goals and there's nothing else to lose in the game... but I know that I would prefer that the Canes not do that strategy (particularly with their track record this season on the two man advantage...)
Babchuk is doing pretty well recently. He's scored points in four of the last five games, and he's certainly putting to use that wicked shot of his. Although, in this game, he had an excellent cross-ice pass to Tuomo Ruutu for the Canes third goal.
Next Canes game is tomorrow against Florida. Maybe we can keep the streak going?
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Canes play well, but lose...
Canes lost their game against the Bruins last night 4-2.
I didn't think that the Canes played that bad, really. I thought they had a pretty good pace for most of the game - they just didn't capitalize on the chances they had and they ended up losing.
The first goal was a Matt Cullen tip-in of an awesome Chad LaRose shot - maybe this is the beginning of another streak for my man LaRose? Hopefully.
The second Canes goal was a wicked shot by Anton Babchuk. He's another one I want to go on a scoring spree - he definitely still has his slapshot.
And, Tuomo Ruutu was a hitting machine last night - pretty much, if it had a Boston Bruins jersey on, he wasn't skating around it, but through it. I get more and more impressed with this guy as the season goes on - how could Chicago give up on him?
Hopfully the Canes good play will transfer into more wins against the big teams like Boston soon.
Next game is New Year's Eve against the Thrashers.
Chad LaRose: 1 assist
On the season: 8 goals, 3 assists
I didn't think that the Canes played that bad, really. I thought they had a pretty good pace for most of the game - they just didn't capitalize on the chances they had and they ended up losing.
The first goal was a Matt Cullen tip-in of an awesome Chad LaRose shot - maybe this is the beginning of another streak for my man LaRose? Hopefully.
The second Canes goal was a wicked shot by Anton Babchuk. He's another one I want to go on a scoring spree - he definitely still has his slapshot.
And, Tuomo Ruutu was a hitting machine last night - pretty much, if it had a Boston Bruins jersey on, he wasn't skating around it, but through it. I get more and more impressed with this guy as the season goes on - how could Chicago give up on him?
Hopfully the Canes good play will transfer into more wins against the big teams like Boston soon.
Next game is New Year's Eve against the Thrashers.
Chad LaRose: 1 assist
On the season: 8 goals, 3 assists
Monday, December 08, 2008
A win!
Canes got their first win under Paul Maurice (well, at least the second time around) with a 3-1 win over the C[r]apitals yesterday. (3-2 in the 3rd jerseys!)
Canes played pretty well, I thought. They scored first for the first time in... 13 games, I think. Ray Whitney notched two goals and Eric Staal got a goal, something that hasn't happened in a while either.
The bad news is that Anton Babchuk is probably out with some sort of elbow/arm injury. Yes, yet another defenseman went down. But, according to this article, we should be getting Seidenberg back for Thursday, so I don't think the Canes will have to call up any more people from Albany.
Thursday's game is against the Flyers - fourth game in three weeks against them. What is up with that?
Canes played pretty well, I thought. They scored first for the first time in... 13 games, I think. Ray Whitney notched two goals and Eric Staal got a goal, something that hasn't happened in a while either.
The bad news is that Anton Babchuk is probably out with some sort of elbow/arm injury. Yes, yet another defenseman went down. But, according to this article, we should be getting Seidenberg back for Thursday, so I don't think the Canes will have to call up any more people from Albany.
Thursday's game is against the Flyers - fourth game in three weeks against them. What is up with that?
Monday, July 07, 2008
Seidenberg signed
Canes locked up another defenseman today, with Dennis Seidenberg signing a one-year, $1.2 mil contract.
This is in addition to Joni Pitakenen (*mumbles something about Cole*), Anton Babchuk, and Josef Melichar.
Now, the Babchuk thing really surprised me when I first heard about it. I didn't expect him to be coming back to play for the Canes if he ever came back - and I didn't think we'd give him a million dollars to do so.
But, looking at some of the other defensive contracts given out this year, I guess a million dollars is pretty cheap.
I wish I would get a job where a million dollars was a low salary. But I digress.
Anyways... Chad LaRose filed for arbitration. I hope whatever wrinkle they hit in those contract negotiations will be ironed out by the arbitrator. I can barely imagine a team without Cole, but without Cole AND LaRose? That would just be too cruel.
This is in addition to Joni Pitakenen (*mumbles something about Cole*), Anton Babchuk, and Josef Melichar.
Now, the Babchuk thing really surprised me when I first heard about it. I didn't expect him to be coming back to play for the Canes if he ever came back - and I didn't think we'd give him a million dollars to do so.
But, looking at some of the other defensive contracts given out this year, I guess a million dollars is pretty cheap.
I wish I would get a job where a million dollars was a low salary. But I digress.
Anyways... Chad LaRose filed for arbitration. I hope whatever wrinkle they hit in those contract negotiations will be ironed out by the arbitrator. I can barely imagine a team without Cole, but without Cole AND LaRose? That would just be too cruel.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Meh...
Well, the Canes don't play until Friday.
Which means it is a week with very little news for us Caniacs. We have fallen out of the Top 8 in the East, but other than that and Babchuk being recalled from Albany, there really isn't that much to talk about.
So I'm just going to end this post here.
Which means it is a week with very little news for us Caniacs. We have fallen out of the Top 8 in the East, but other than that and Babchuk being recalled from Albany, there really isn't that much to talk about.
So I'm just going to end this post here.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Suspension lifted
The only news in Canes-land today is that the Hurricanes lifted their suspension on Anton Babchuk. Babchuk will report to Albany right away.
That is all.
That is all.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Yes! Kaberle is back with a vengance!
Canes won 2-1 last night against the Montreal Canadiens.
I was not able to listen to the game, as I was too busy, so I can't really comment on the actual play of the players.
Except that: The Canes won! Finally!
And that: Wow. Frank Kaberle scores the game-winning goal in his first game back with the Canes. Hopefully, this is a sign of a significant turn around for the team.
Also that: Andrew Ladd fought with Craig Rivet. I heard from my alternate-viewpoint Caniac, who happened to see some highlights, that Ladd won, but just barely.
Although the news of Kaberle's comeback is good news for the Caniac Nation, it is bad news for Anton Babchuk. Especially after he refused to be sent to Albany, so the Canes had to suspend him.
I'm not quite sure what exactly happens when a player is suspended. I assume that said player gets no pay... but is there anything else that happens?
Anyways... on a purely non-hockey note: Carolina plays Dook tonight, 9 PM. You can guarantee that I, plus everyone who cares about ACC basketball and/or those who live within a 50-mile radius of either school, will be watching it.
I was not able to listen to the game, as I was too busy, so I can't really comment on the actual play of the players.
Except that: The Canes won! Finally!
And that: Wow. Frank Kaberle scores the game-winning goal in his first game back with the Canes. Hopefully, this is a sign of a significant turn around for the team.
Also that: Andrew Ladd fought with Craig Rivet. I heard from my alternate-viewpoint Caniac, who happened to see some highlights, that Ladd won, but just barely.
Although the news of Kaberle's comeback is good news for the Caniac Nation, it is bad news for Anton Babchuk. Especially after he refused to be sent to Albany, so the Canes had to suspend him.
I'm not quite sure what exactly happens when a player is suspended. I assume that said player gets no pay... but is there anything else that happens?
Anyways... on a purely non-hockey note: Carolina plays Dook tonight, 9 PM. You can guarantee that I, plus everyone who cares about ACC basketball and/or those who live within a 50-mile radius of either school, will be watching it.
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