Hockey is finally here, which is great because it means the start of a brand new season, where fans all across the league can forget about the past and look forward to the future and a clean slate.
Or, if you're a Canes fan, you can be horribly reminded of exactly what kept you out of the playoffs last season. Namely the Tampa Bay Lightning beating the snot out of us in our own building.
Yep, it was the same old same old in Raleigh on Friday night, when the Canes lost 5-1 to the Lightning.
The good things:
- Tailgating is amazing, and Friday provided a great day for it. Warm temperatures, sunny skies, and absolutely delicious food on the grill. It was definitely nice to be back and tailgating before the game.
- Jeff Skinner is so awesome. He pretty much created the entire scoring play of the game by himself. He is the shining light among darkness when I think about this game and our chances for the season.
The bad things:
- Eric Staal played like crap. He didn't seem to really be pressing for the puck at all, ever.
- Jussi Jokinen took a stupid penalty that gave Tampa a goal. Unsportsmanlike conduct is always stupid, but shooting the puck at the ref is several kinds of stupid.
- The Canes appeared to give up after Tampa got their third goal. Actually, overall, this game did not have the effort I'd have liked to see from a team that was supposedly still fuming about being knocked out of the playoffs.
Luckily (I suppose), the Opening Night game was not the only one that the Canes played this weekend. They also played last night against the C[r]apitals, losing in overtime 4-3.
The Canes looked a lot better in this one, showing a lot of fire in parts. Eric Staal, for one, picked up his game significantly, scoring the first two goals for the Canes. I'm really glad the Canes were able to play so closely with Washington, as Washington is supposed to be one of the better teams in the East this year. That being said, stupid penalties did the Canes in again, the game winner coming off of a power play goal.
So what do I think of these new 2011-2012 Canes? They look a lot like last year's Canes. Which isn't ideal. During the Washington broadcast I caught Tripp Tracy saying something along the lines of "that's the Cardiac Canes again". And honestly, I don't think that's a good thing. Is a little bit of consistency too much to ask? Apparently so.
So, yeah, I guess Opening Night didn't really put me in an optimistic mood for the Canes this season. But that's to be expected, when the first hockey you see of a team is the same kind of hockey that was a let down last season.
Showing posts with label Jussi Jokinen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jussi Jokinen. Show all posts
Sunday, October 09, 2011
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Surprises!
Two big surprises to report today.
First of all, the Canes beat the C[r]apitals 6-3 on Monday night. Yes, you read that right. Our pathetic, last place team beat the top of the league team. And not just beat, but laid out an ultimate smackdown - the Canes were up 3-0 after the first!
And let me strike from the record the comments I had about Eric Staal playing wing in the last post. Eric Staal can play defense for all I care, if he puts up five points while doing so.
Seriously, I am absolutely floored that this team was able to beat Washington like this. I believe this was their first lost in the Southeast Division - can you believe it?
Another thing that really surprised me was the Olympic team selections that came out today. The Canadian Olympic Committee must have been watching this past game, as Eric Staal made the team. The Finnish Olympic Committe mustn't have watched any Canes games as Jussi Jokinen was not selected to the Finnish team with his counterparts Ruutu and Pitkanen.
I feel really bad for Jokinen because I feel that he has had an excellent season (especially for being on this team) and I think he should have been credited with a spot on the team.
Tomorrow is New Year's Eve and the Canes have their traditional game at the RBC Center. This year it's against the Rangers. Maybe the Canes will have some momentum going into it?
First of all, the Canes beat the C[r]apitals 6-3 on Monday night. Yes, you read that right. Our pathetic, last place team beat the top of the league team. And not just beat, but laid out an ultimate smackdown - the Canes were up 3-0 after the first!
And let me strike from the record the comments I had about Eric Staal playing wing in the last post. Eric Staal can play defense for all I care, if he puts up five points while doing so.
Seriously, I am absolutely floored that this team was able to beat Washington like this. I believe this was their first lost in the Southeast Division - can you believe it?
Another thing that really surprised me was the Olympic team selections that came out today. The Canadian Olympic Committee must have been watching this past game, as Eric Staal made the team. The Finnish Olympic Committe mustn't have watched any Canes games as Jussi Jokinen was not selected to the Finnish team with his counterparts Ruutu and Pitkanen.
I feel really bad for Jokinen because I feel that he has had an excellent season (especially for being on this team) and I think he should have been credited with a spot on the team.
Tomorrow is New Year's Eve and the Canes have their traditional game at the RBC Center. This year it's against the Rangers. Maybe the Canes will have some momentum going into it?
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Canes win!
So, I attended my second game of the season this year, and the Canes won their second game in regulation. The last game I went to was the 7-2 romp over Florida... coincidence? I think not.
Anyways, the Canes beat the Lightning 3-1 in this one.
Some random observations in list form because paragraphs are too complicated during Thanksgiving Break:
- Yes, I do have thoughts concerning the shootout loss to the Canadiens and the shootout win against the Leafs. I also have thoughts about the current cap issue with the Canes and a few curse words concerning the injury bug this team had. No, you're not going to get them because who wants to talk semi-depressing stuff when you have a legitimate win on your hands?
- That being said, Canes have gotten points in their last five games. Infinitely better than their bazillion game losing streak. Is this the turnaround point for the team?
- Ruutu and Jokinen are awesome.
- Chad LaRose got his first goal and an assist in tonight's game. The goal was a result of him powering up the side of the ice, and it has been a long time overdue for one of my favorite forwards.
- Manny Legace made most of the stops tonight, but I didn't think he looked that great while stopping them. Cam Ward, please get healthy soon.
- Jussi Jokinen's goal was the result of what I called a "changeup". The puck, instead of coming off of Joe Corvo's stick at lightning speed, came off at an extremely slow rate and I think that's what fooled Mike Smith in net for the Lightning.
- The Canes had their ups and downs, but I actually think that they didn't play that bad. If we can sustain this current positive trend, I can't help but be optimistic for our final position. There's still three-quarters left in the season.
Just remember to tell me that if we begin to lose again.
The next game is Monday against the Stars.
Erik Cole stats (Tues): 1 assist
(Thurs): 1 goal
On the season: 2 goals, 1 assist
Chad LaRose stats (Thurs): 1 assist
(Sat): 1 goal, 1 assist
On the season: 1 goal, 5 assists
Anyways, the Canes beat the Lightning 3-1 in this one.
Some random observations in list form because paragraphs are too complicated during Thanksgiving Break:
- Yes, I do have thoughts concerning the shootout loss to the Canadiens and the shootout win against the Leafs. I also have thoughts about the current cap issue with the Canes and a few curse words concerning the injury bug this team had. No, you're not going to get them because who wants to talk semi-depressing stuff when you have a legitimate win on your hands?
- That being said, Canes have gotten points in their last five games. Infinitely better than their bazillion game losing streak. Is this the turnaround point for the team?
- Ruutu and Jokinen are awesome.
- Chad LaRose got his first goal and an assist in tonight's game. The goal was a result of him powering up the side of the ice, and it has been a long time overdue for one of my favorite forwards.
- Manny Legace made most of the stops tonight, but I didn't think he looked that great while stopping them. Cam Ward, please get healthy soon.
- Jussi Jokinen's goal was the result of what I called a "changeup". The puck, instead of coming off of Joe Corvo's stick at lightning speed, came off at an extremely slow rate and I think that's what fooled Mike Smith in net for the Lightning.
- The Canes had their ups and downs, but I actually think that they didn't play that bad. If we can sustain this current positive trend, I can't help but be optimistic for our final position. There's still three-quarters left in the season.
Just remember to tell me that if we begin to lose again.
The next game is Monday against the Stars.
Erik Cole stats (Tues): 1 assist
(Thurs): 1 goal
On the season: 2 goals, 1 assist
Chad LaRose stats (Thurs): 1 assist
(Sat): 1 goal, 1 assist
On the season: 1 goal, 5 assists
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Canes storm all over the Panthers.
Canes beat the crap out of Florida 7-2 last night at the RBC Center.
This was the first game I went to in person this season and it was somewhat unfortunate that such a beatdown went on in front of such a paltry crowd... but, then again, Florida wouldn't have been my top choice to view either.
The score is not so much a result of how great the Canes played, but how bad Florida played. There were tons of turnovers by the Panthers - specifically Jussi Jokinen's goal off of a poorly played puck behind the net.
The good thing for the Canes was the fact that all seven goals were scored by seven different people - definitely a variety of contributors from several lines, with Tom Kostopoulos getting his first Canes goal (a shorthanded steal) and Jay Harrison getting his first goal as well.
The two goals scored by Florida came far too late to actually make a difference in the score, and weren't really Ward's fault at all. Cam played very well in net the few times he was challenged.
I feel actually sort of bad for the Florida fans. Essentially the only players on their team are Nathan Horton, David Booth, and Cory Stillman. That's it. That's their depth. Pretty pathetic, actually.
Canes play again tonight against Tampa. Hopefully their success against Florida-based teams will continue.
This was the first game I went to in person this season and it was somewhat unfortunate that such a beatdown went on in front of such a paltry crowd... but, then again, Florida wouldn't have been my top choice to view either.
The score is not so much a result of how great the Canes played, but how bad Florida played. There were tons of turnovers by the Panthers - specifically Jussi Jokinen's goal off of a poorly played puck behind the net.
The good thing for the Canes was the fact that all seven goals were scored by seven different people - definitely a variety of contributors from several lines, with Tom Kostopoulos getting his first Canes goal (a shorthanded steal) and Jay Harrison getting his first goal as well.
The two goals scored by Florida came far too late to actually make a difference in the score, and weren't really Ward's fault at all. Cam played very well in net the few times he was challenged.
I feel actually sort of bad for the Florida fans. Essentially the only players on their team are Nathan Horton, David Booth, and Cory Stillman. That's it. That's their depth. Pretty pathetic, actually.
Canes play again tonight against Tampa. Hopefully their success against Florida-based teams will continue.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
It's the most wonderful time of the offseason
Let's see, what all has happened with the Canes since Friday afternoon?
On Friday, the Canes selected Philippe Paradis with their first round pick. Apparently there were something like twelve players ranked above him that were still on the board when he was picked. I guess the Canes' scouts must've had some really solid material on him - you can only hope so...
The Canes also picked five others in this year's draft, three defenseman and two wingers.
Then on Monday came some good news from the re-signing front. Jussi Jokinen signed a two year deal, gets $1.5 mil this year and $1.9 the next. I think a very good deal, especially if Jussi can carry his playoff voodoo into the regular season.
Of course, today is the beginning of free agency, which means a huge amount of deals to sift through. The most important for the Canes (and my sanity)? Erik Cole signed a two-year deal for about three mil a year. Probably would've been better for the Canes cap situation if he got a bit less - but I'm not complaining! No exile in Edmonton this year for my man Cole, thank goodness.
Also in Canes-land, no news (as of 9:03pm EST) about Chad LaRose. Is no news good news? As long as he ends up signing with the Canes, then yes.
Elsewhere around the NHL, both of the Sedins resigned with Vancouver for 5yrs/$6.1per. Marian Hossa got a crazy contract with the Blackhawks - 12 years for $5mil per. Marian Gaborik signed with the Rangers for 5yrs/$7.5per (how the heck do they still have cap room for these kind of contracts?). Going back to draft day, the Flyers shipped out their entire future for Chris Pronger.
Y'know, it's almost a good thing that the Canes are stingy with their money - that way I don't have to bother trying to justify some of these outrageous contracts.
As always, updates whenever I get them. I can't tell you how good it feels to have an internet connection and access to hockey news again.
On Friday, the Canes selected Philippe Paradis with their first round pick. Apparently there were something like twelve players ranked above him that were still on the board when he was picked. I guess the Canes' scouts must've had some really solid material on him - you can only hope so...
The Canes also picked five others in this year's draft, three defenseman and two wingers.
Then on Monday came some good news from the re-signing front. Jussi Jokinen signed a two year deal, gets $1.5 mil this year and $1.9 the next. I think a very good deal, especially if Jussi can carry his playoff voodoo into the regular season.
Of course, today is the beginning of free agency, which means a huge amount of deals to sift through. The most important for the Canes (and my sanity)? Erik Cole signed a two-year deal for about three mil a year. Probably would've been better for the Canes cap situation if he got a bit less - but I'm not complaining! No exile in Edmonton this year for my man Cole, thank goodness.
Also in Canes-land, no news (as of 9:03pm EST) about Chad LaRose. Is no news good news? As long as he ends up signing with the Canes, then yes.
Elsewhere around the NHL, both of the Sedins resigned with Vancouver for 5yrs/$6.1per. Marian Hossa got a crazy contract with the Blackhawks - 12 years for $5mil per. Marian Gaborik signed with the Rangers for 5yrs/$7.5per (how the heck do they still have cap room for these kind of contracts?). Going back to draft day, the Flyers shipped out their entire future for Chris Pronger.
Y'know, it's almost a good thing that the Canes are stingy with their money - that way I don't have to bother trying to justify some of these outrageous contracts.
As always, updates whenever I get them. I can't tell you how good it feels to have an internet connection and access to hockey news again.
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.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
That could have gone better
Well, crap.
Canes are down 2-0 in the series after losing 7-4 in Game 2. Definitely territory we haven't been in this playoff season. (However, for you optimists out there, don't forget Round 1 against Montreal in 2006).
The first period was a good one. I think. I didn't actually see it due to an awards ceremony running 40 minutes over. But the score was 3-2 in favor of the Canes (5 goals in a period! Of course I miss the most offense intensive period of the whole playoffs) with goals by LaRose, Jokinen, and Seidenberg.
Then came the second period, where the Canes didn't play as well. They looked to be going in the third with only a tied game, but they allowed the Pens to score with only eight seconds left in the period.
The third period just went downhill from there. Evgeni Malkin got a hat trick (Memo to Versus - nobody actually cares about his parents celebrating. Just FYI.) and the Canes let the game get away from them with sloppy play. The interesting part of the period was what happened with less than two minutes left. There was a huge scrum at the end boards, Bayda got a match penalty for high-sticking (I think?) and then was consequently fined $2,500. I don't really know what happened - I don't think Versus really went over it and if they did I didn't listen because I was just ready for the stupid game to be over.
The Canes certainly need to put out a better quality of game if they hope to beat the Penguins. The Pens driving offense (along with poor defense and effort on the Canes part) killed us in this game. We need to take it back to Raleigh and set the pace in our own building.
The Canes can do this. It'll be tough, but it can be just another comeback for them.
Chad LaRose stats: 1 goal
Playoffs: 4 goals, 7 assists
Canes are down 2-0 in the series after losing 7-4 in Game 2. Definitely territory we haven't been in this playoff season. (However, for you optimists out there, don't forget Round 1 against Montreal in 2006).
The first period was a good one. I think. I didn't actually see it due to an awards ceremony running 40 minutes over. But the score was 3-2 in favor of the Canes (5 goals in a period! Of course I miss the most offense intensive period of the whole playoffs) with goals by LaRose, Jokinen, and Seidenberg.
Then came the second period, where the Canes didn't play as well. They looked to be going in the third with only a tied game, but they allowed the Pens to score with only eight seconds left in the period.
The third period just went downhill from there. Evgeni Malkin got a hat trick (Memo to Versus - nobody actually cares about his parents celebrating. Just FYI.) and the Canes let the game get away from them with sloppy play. The interesting part of the period was what happened with less than two minutes left. There was a huge scrum at the end boards, Bayda got a match penalty for high-sticking (I think?) and then was consequently fined $2,500. I don't really know what happened - I don't think Versus really went over it and if they did I didn't listen because I was just ready for the stupid game to be over.
The Canes certainly need to put out a better quality of game if they hope to beat the Penguins. The Pens driving offense (along with poor defense and effort on the Canes part) killed us in this game. We need to take it back to Raleigh and set the pace in our own building.
The Canes can do this. It'll be tough, but it can be just another comeback for them.
Chad LaRose stats: 1 goal
Playoffs: 4 goals, 7 assists
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Canes win Game 4
Canes won 4-1 in Game 4 on Friday night.
Attempts at writing full coherent paragraphs are not working out today, so here's what I remember:
- Eric Staal played very good. At times he seemed like the only player truly trying out on the ice. His second goal of the night really drove the nail in the coffin for the Bruins.
- Jussi Jokinen scored again. Perhaps not as momentus as his other postseason goals, but it did break a 1-1 tie.
- Rod Brind'Amour finally got a point in the playoffs - assisting on the Jussi Jokinen goal with an excellent pass through the crease.
And, yeah, that's all that I can remember (give me a break, prom was last night and I'm working on four hours of sleep). Oh well. Game 5 is tonight in Boston - Canes can win the series!
Erik Cole stats: 1 assist
Playoffs: 2 assists
Attempts at writing full coherent paragraphs are not working out today, so here's what I remember:
- Eric Staal played very good. At times he seemed like the only player truly trying out on the ice. His second goal of the night really drove the nail in the coffin for the Bruins.
- Jussi Jokinen scored again. Perhaps not as momentus as his other postseason goals, but it did break a 1-1 tie.
- Rod Brind'Amour finally got a point in the playoffs - assisting on the Jussi Jokinen goal with an excellent pass through the crease.
And, yeah, that's all that I can remember (give me a break, prom was last night and I'm working on four hours of sleep). Oh well. Game 5 is tonight in Boston - Canes can win the series!
Erik Cole stats: 1 assist
Playoffs: 2 assists
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Jussi Jokinen, I think I love you
Canes win Game 3 in overtime 3-2.
Jussi Jokinen is proving that he is the clutch-est player around. Yes, of course he got the key OT winner - with the way his playoffs are going, who else would it be?
And I'm trying to think of what to say for the rest of this post, but my mind just keeps turning back to Jokinen and how completely awesome he's been. A game-winner in .2 left in regulation, a game-tie-er in Game 7, and now another game-winner in OT. Dang, this guy is clutch.
As for the rest of the team, they played pretty well last night. The first period and some of the second was a little sloppy - they let Boston get out to a 1-0 lead. But the Canes came on in the late second, scoring two goals in less than a minute to get the lead. (Sergei Samsonov got his first playoff goal on a nice shot).
Oh, and by the way, the refs were absolutely horrible in this game. Couldn't call an obstruction penalty if their life depended on it. Look, I understand that you don't want to slow the game down unnecessarily with marginal penalties - but that doesn't mean you shouldn't call the blatant stuff!
The Canes then played pretty good in the third, but still let in a Bruin goal for them to tie it up. The game went to overtime, but luckily the Canes were able to stick to the overtime-is-only-for-winning rule.
Jussi Jokinen - just wow. Rutherford is looking like a genius for picking this guy up.
Game 4 is tomorrow at the RBC Center. Hopefully the Canes can win it - it would be nice to go back to Boston with a 3-1 series lead!
Jussi Jokinen is proving that he is the clutch-est player around. Yes, of course he got the key OT winner - with the way his playoffs are going, who else would it be?
And I'm trying to think of what to say for the rest of this post, but my mind just keeps turning back to Jokinen and how completely awesome he's been. A game-winner in .2 left in regulation, a game-tie-er in Game 7, and now another game-winner in OT. Dang, this guy is clutch.
As for the rest of the team, they played pretty well last night. The first period and some of the second was a little sloppy - they let Boston get out to a 1-0 lead. But the Canes came on in the late second, scoring two goals in less than a minute to get the lead. (Sergei Samsonov got his first playoff goal on a nice shot).
Oh, and by the way, the refs were absolutely horrible in this game. Couldn't call an obstruction penalty if their life depended on it. Look, I understand that you don't want to slow the game down unnecessarily with marginal penalties - but that doesn't mean you shouldn't call the blatant stuff!
The Canes then played pretty good in the third, but still let in a Bruin goal for them to tie it up. The game went to overtime, but luckily the Canes were able to stick to the overtime-is-only-for-winning rule.
Jussi Jokinen - just wow. Rutherford is looking like a genius for picking this guy up.
Game 4 is tomorrow at the RBC Center. Hopefully the Canes can win it - it would be nice to go back to Boston with a 3-1 series lead!
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Canes drop first game.
Right now I'm "studying for Statistics", so I'll make this post short, okay?
Canes lost 4-1 to the Bruins last night, which, oddly enough, is the exact same score they lost in Game 1 against the Devils last series.
Unlike the first Game 1, the second wasn't anywhere near the level of lameness. The Canes played okay last night - a few good chances, but a few poor plays as well, specifically the Tuomo Ruutu intercepted pass across the middle that led to the Bruins' third goal.
The bright spot of the night was Jussi Jokinen's goal in the first period. This guy is on fire of late. If only some of his other teammates would step up as well... *cough*ErikCole*cough*
To win Game 2, I think the Canes need to, well, play better. Playing merely okay will not win them a game against this Bruins team. They need to play some of their best hockey - and maintain it!
Game 2 is tomorrow on Versus, so that means that we finally can get coverage outside of our own market.
Canes lost 4-1 to the Bruins last night, which, oddly enough, is the exact same score they lost in Game 1 against the Devils last series.
Unlike the first Game 1, the second wasn't anywhere near the level of lameness. The Canes played okay last night - a few good chances, but a few poor plays as well, specifically the Tuomo Ruutu intercepted pass across the middle that led to the Bruins' third goal.
The bright spot of the night was Jussi Jokinen's goal in the first period. This guy is on fire of late. If only some of his other teammates would step up as well... *cough*ErikCole*cough*
To win Game 2, I think the Canes need to, well, play better. Playing merely okay will not win them a game against this Bruins team. They need to play some of their best hockey - and maintain it!
Game 2 is tomorrow on Versus, so that means that we finally can get coverage outside of our own market.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
So long New Jersey...
...and hello Boston!
Last night the Canes defeated the Devils in a thrilling 4-3 Game 7 win that they totally pulled out of their butt at the last minute.
Seriously, there was less than a minute and a half remaining and the Canes were down 3-2. Then BAM!, Jussi Jokinen and Eric Staal strike and the Canes are advancing to the second round.
The game started out on an excellent note, with Tuomo Ruutu notching his first point of the postseason at the 1:02 mark of the first period. Of course, I was enthralled by this goal because that meant the Canes were coming out fast and taking the Jersey fans out of the game early.
Then, of course, the Devils score a minute and a half later, thereby getting the crowd back into it.
Throughout the game I didn't think the Canes were playing well enough for them to win. Like so many other games in this series, they weren't playing bad, they just weren't playing hard enough to win a elimination game. Cam Ward kept them in the game in the third period, preventing Jersey from going up two goals instead of just one.
Then came the last rush, and Jussi Jokinen cemented his status as my bestest friend evah by scoring yet another needed goal in regulation:
Jokinen is like the Secret Weapon of Regulation - how he somehow is scoring these goals at just the right time is unknown to me - but whatever he's doing, he needs to keep it up!
So the game was tied. Then less than a minute later Eric Staal just gains the zone and shoots - flat out beating Martin Brodeur. I don't think Brodeur looked that bad on a goal the entire season. Granted, it was tipped or something, but still.
I just can't believe we won the game. Seriously, just thinking about it now just blows my mind. Why the heck wasn't scoring goals as easy as that the entire series?
And I must commend the New Jersey Devils. They played the toughest first round I've ever seen. These teams were so even, the series came down to a couple of bounces and tips here and there.
But now we must say goodbye to Jersey and face the upcoming second round opponent - The Boston Bruins. I'll leave the preview for another post (maybe? hopefully?) - just know that Game 1 starts this Friday.
Chad LaRose stats: 2 assists
Playoffs: 2 goals, 5 assists
Last night the Canes defeated the Devils in a thrilling 4-3 Game 7 win that they totally pulled out of their butt at the last minute.
Seriously, there was less than a minute and a half remaining and the Canes were down 3-2. Then BAM!, Jussi Jokinen and Eric Staal strike and the Canes are advancing to the second round.
The game started out on an excellent note, with Tuomo Ruutu notching his first point of the postseason at the 1:02 mark of the first period. Of course, I was enthralled by this goal because that meant the Canes were coming out fast and taking the Jersey fans out of the game early.
Then, of course, the Devils score a minute and a half later, thereby getting the crowd back into it.
Throughout the game I didn't think the Canes were playing well enough for them to win. Like so many other games in this series, they weren't playing bad, they just weren't playing hard enough to win a elimination game. Cam Ward kept them in the game in the third period, preventing Jersey from going up two goals instead of just one.
Then came the last rush, and Jussi Jokinen cemented his status as my bestest friend evah by scoring yet another needed goal in regulation:
Jokinen is like the Secret Weapon of Regulation - how he somehow is scoring these goals at just the right time is unknown to me - but whatever he's doing, he needs to keep it up!
So the game was tied. Then less than a minute later Eric Staal just gains the zone and shoots - flat out beating Martin Brodeur. I don't think Brodeur looked that bad on a goal the entire season. Granted, it was tipped or something, but still.
I just can't believe we won the game. Seriously, just thinking about it now just blows my mind. Why the heck wasn't scoring goals as easy as that the entire series?
And I must commend the New Jersey Devils. They played the toughest first round I've ever seen. These teams were so even, the series came down to a couple of bounces and tips here and there.
But now we must say goodbye to Jersey and face the upcoming second round opponent - The Boston Bruins. I'll leave the preview for another post (maybe? hopefully?) - just know that Game 1 starts this Friday.
Chad LaRose stats: 2 assists
Playoffs: 2 goals, 5 assists
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Jussi Jokinen is my new best friend
I don't think there are any words to describe the exhiliration felt after that goal.
Jussi Jokinen tips it in with 00.2 left on the clock.
Wow.
I think everyone in the RBC Center had that game going into overtime. I certainly did. Then - the puck goes in, but 00.0 is what the clock reads. After a brief conference, the referees deem it a goal - Martin Brodeur flips out about it, but whatever, he can just deal.
This sets an NHL record for the latest goal scored in regulation. I mean, it doesn't get much closer than that, does it?
Although, despite the AMAZING ending, the Canes really should have never been in that position anyway. They came out skating and got out to an early 2-0 lead in the first period. It was 3-0 for most of the second, but then Jersey scored three consecutive goals to tie it up.
Three consecutive goals. Certainly not cool, and certainly something the Canes don't want to let happen again in the series. But as lame as the Canes performance late in the game was, the end was just too awesome for me to complain too much.
Momentum for Game 5, anyone?
(As an aside, props go to Chad LaRose and Ryan Bayda - both are making the most of their playoff minutes, both notching another goal in last night's game.)
(And as another aside, I just found the NHL Situation Room blog, and I think it is excellent - a perfect way to get the exact ruling on any certain reviewed play.)
Chad LaRose stats: 1 goal
Playoffs: 2 goals, 1 assist
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Late recap. Whatever.
Canes won 7-2 over the Coyotes last Saturday.
(Yeah, it's a late recap. So what?)
Let's see what I remember... Hm... Not much. The Canes were tied 2-2 when I went to bed, so I missed the goal-tacular third period. I believe the win vaulted them into 8th place at the time, but we've currently slipped back into ninth place since then.
Jussi Jokinen got the his first assist as a Cane in the game as well. Interesting how his and Ruutu's debuts seem eerily similar (and yet so far apart...)
Next game is tomorrow against the Florida Panthers, who currently hold the coveted eighth position in the standings. Huge game, anyone?
(Oh yeah, please vote on the poll to the right. It's easy and only takes two clicks!)
Chad LaRose stats: 1 goal, 1 assist
On the season: 12 goals, 6 assists
(Yeah, it's a late recap. So what?)
Let's see what I remember... Hm... Not much. The Canes were tied 2-2 when I went to bed, so I missed the goal-tacular third period. I believe the win vaulted them into 8th place at the time, but we've currently slipped back into ninth place since then.
Jussi Jokinen got the his first assist as a Cane in the game as well. Interesting how his and Ruutu's debuts seem eerily similar (and yet so far apart...)
Next game is tomorrow against the Florida Panthers, who currently hold the coveted eighth position in the standings. Huge game, anyone?
(Oh yeah, please vote on the poll to the right. It's easy and only takes two clicks!)
Chad LaRose stats: 1 goal, 1 assist
On the season: 12 goals, 6 assists
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Not Brookbank!
The Canes have traded Wade Brookbank, Josef Melichar, and a 4th round pick for Jussi Jokinen of the Tampa Bay Lightning.
I'm not sure what to make of this. I don't really know much about Jokinen, despite him playing for the Lightning this year. Checking his career stats, it looks like he's having a little bit of a down year compared with his other seasons in the NHL. According to Rutherford:
But I'm definitely going to miss Brookbank. He was essentially the only person who would fight on our team. Oh well...
Game is tonight at nine against Phoenix.
I'm not sure what to make of this. I don't really know much about Jokinen, despite him playing for the Lightning this year. Checking his career stats, it looks like he's having a little bit of a down year compared with his other seasons in the NHL. According to Rutherford:
“Jussi is a skilled, two-positional player that can be used in all situations,” said Rutherford. “He will add depth to our team at an important time of the season.”In reality, the Canes didn't give up too much for him - Brookbank hadn't played in a game since December, and Melichar's been down in the minors for most of the year.
But I'm definitely going to miss Brookbank. He was essentially the only person who would fight on our team. Oh well...
Game is tonight at nine against Phoenix.
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