Part of what makes playoff hockey so exciting is the stories that end up coming out of the games. For proof, just watch a game and see one of the cycle of "history will happen" commercials being aired. They've served as a nice reminder of the unexpected taking place, or the expected being put on a grander stage. This year's playoffs will definitely have their own fair share of history, along with some unexpected results as the remaining eight teams move ahead to the second round.
Eastern Conference
Who would have expected that, after the first round, none of the division winners would still be playing? And yet, in the Eastern Conference, that's exactly what happened, with only Pittsburgh avoiding an upset, dispatching the #5 seeded Ottawa Senators. The shake-up in the East means that the early favorite to win it all is now out of the way, and it could make things more interesting.
#4 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. #8 Montreal Canadiens
The Penguins did exactly what everyone expected they would do. True, Ottawa took a couple games away from them on their home ice, but the Penguins showed why they're the defending champs, and their star power shined brightly in the first round. Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were huge on the ice for the Penguins, and Marc-Andre Fleury held his team in when he needed to. Ultimately, it was Pittsburgh's offense that drove them on to the second round, where they remain the highest seed remaining in the East.
Their reward? They get to face the Montreal Canadiens. That may not be much of a reward overall, though, as the Canadiens became the first #8 seed to win a series after being down 3-1 after four games. Montreal may not have done much in their 100th season, but they're looking to get the next hundred years off to a good start. They may have gotten the benefit of a couple calls, including a no-goal call in Game 7, but they simply shut down the top team in the NHL, starting with game five. Looking for a reason why Montreal moved on, look no further than Jaroslav Halak. Unremarkable in the beginning of the series, he was pulled in favor of Carey Price, returned in Game 5, and just closed the door on Washington the rest of the way. Halak was absolutely brilliant in net, including a 53-save performance in Game 6 before turning aside 40+ shots in Game 7. The Canadiens will be looking to their defense to stop the high-powered Penguins offense, but Pittsburgh comes in a little more rested. Cinderella's shoe might fit right now, but it will need a new home after Pittsburgh wins in 6 games.
#6 Boston Bruins vs #7 Philadelphia Flyers
Boston may have had some scary moments while facing the Buffalo Sabres, but, in the end, they did to Buffalo exactly what they did all season, and that's make the bigger plays when it counts. None may have been bigger than the plays made by Miroslav Satan, a former Sabre and a winner of the Stanley Cup last season with Pittsburgh. Satan was left floating as a free agent until January, when the Bruins snapped him up to fill in for some injured players. He's only turned around to be a consistent scoring threat. Boston is also about to get a boost when Marc Savard returns to play, having recovered from the concussion that kept him off the ice for the first round. Meanwhile, Milan Lucic and Zdeno Chara should be getting ready for a physical series, because the Bruins drew a classic battle for the second round.
That classic battle will be against the Philadelphia Flyers. The last team to make it into the playoffs, and only because of a last minute win, the Flyers became the first team to advance to the second round when they stunned Martin Brodeur and the New Jersey Devils. The Flyers are a rough-and-tumble team, but they have offensive prowess. They also showed a sturdy penalty kill, which is good for Philadelphia, as they have a tendency to march to the penalty box. Brian Boucher needs to continue playing the great hockey he has, and the Flyers need Scott Hartnell to find his game. At the end of this rough series, though, the Bruins will be advancing, winning in 7 games.
Western Conference
Over in the West, it could be argued that there wasn't a single upset. True, the number four team didn't advance, but it's hard to call the Detroit Red Wings an underdog, especially with their success over the years and the way they played in the tail part of the season. Still, the West made its own history, and that should continue with an exciting second round.
#1 San Jose Sharks vs #5 Detroit Red Wings
In the beginning of their series against the Colorado Avalanche, it looked like the San Jose Sharks were on their way to another postseason collapse. After three games, they were staring down a 2-1 deficit, and had actually scored an own goal to dig themselves into that hole. All they did after that was rattle off three impressive wins, led by Joe Pavelski, Devin Setoguchi, and Ryan Clowe. Evgeni Nabokov also stood tall, putting together an amazing GAA despite a huge Colorado Game 2. The Sharks look to be serious contenders this year, but they desperately need their "Big Three" of Heatley, Thornton, and Marleau to step up their level of play.
Meanwhile, the Detroit Red Wings were taken to a seventh game by the upstart Phoenix Coyotes, but all Detroit did was allow their stars to take over. Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg stepped up at the exact right times, and the Detroit defense was able to keep Phoenix from playing too much of their own style. In the final game of the series, the Red Wings punched their ticket to the second round with an exclamation point, decimating the Coyotes to the tune of 6-1. That should continue for the Red Wings, as Detroit will knock off San Jose in 7.
#2 Chicago Blackhawks vs #3 Vancouver Canucks
The Chicago Blackhawks survived a bit of a scare from the Nashville Predators, falling behind 2-1 after three games. Then Nashville gave away Game 5, and it was history. The Blackhawks survived a 5-minute major penalty in that game, and it was the player who spent time in the box, and who has come in second the last two years, who scored the game winner that ultimately put the series out of Nashville's reach. Will this be the year that Marian Hossa finally gets to lift the Cup himself? With help from Jonathon Toews, Patrick Kane, Duncan Keith and Antti Niemi, he's certainly hoping so.
Standing in Chicago's way is the team that they faced last year at this same time, and a team that they ushered out the door in six games. The Vancouver Canucks aren't much different from the team that lost to Chicago last season, but they are an improved team. The Sedin twins are playing big-time hockey now, shaking off criticisms that they couldn't bring their talent into the playoffs with them. Meanwhile, Mikael Samuelsson helped add offense to a Vancouver team that already had plenty. The big concerns for the Canucks will have to be on the penalty kill, as they were awful at slowing down the Los Angeles Kings power play, and whether or not Roberto Luongo can shake the demons of past performances. If Luongo can be the stud goaltender that the Canucks are hoping he can be, they can look to playing in the conference finals. Ultimately, though, this year's result won't be any different from last year, as the Blackhawks advance in 6 games.
Showing posts with label Vancouver Canucks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vancouver Canucks. Show all posts
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
2009-10 Playoff Previews: Western Quarterfinals
With half of the hockey world looked at yesterday, it's time to turn the attention to the West. Teams in the Western Conference may not have quite the star power of their Eastern counterparts, but that doesn't make them lesser teams. Quite the opposite, in fact, as many of the teams in the West are often viewed as being stronger, more physical, and better rounded. Of course, the West also currently houses the team that has become known more for its playoff collapses than for their in-season success.
#1 San Jose Sharks vs. #8 Colorado Avalanche
The San Jose Sharks spent the early part of the season looking like they were going to do exactly what Washington did in the East. However, instead of running away with the conference, the Sharks had to fend off some late pressure in the form of the Chicago Blackhawks. The Sharks are a team that has some fantastic forwards (Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Dany Heatley), solid goaltender (Evgeni Nabokov), and consistent defense. Because the Sharks had a challenge to keep the top spot, they should be a little better prepared than in year's past.
The Colorado Avalanche, on the other hand, didn't know if they would be in the playoffs until an impressive shoot-out win capped an unbelievable season for them. Matt Duchesne, a rookie who is getting serious Calder Trophy consideration, has helped to power the Avalance to an over-achieving season. Too bad for Colorado that they won't be able to survive against the San Jose onslaught, as the Sharks will dispatch the Avalanche in 5.
#2 Chicago Blackhawks vs. #7 Nashville Predators
Chicago has to hope that this year is the year they take home the heavy hardware, because, with the salary cap, a number of players are going to be wearing different jerseys next season. The Blackhawks spent, and it allowed them to put together a very strong team. Obviously, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews are expected to shoulder a lot of Chicago's offense, and Marian Hossa is hungry for his first championship, after coming in second two years in a row. The question for Chicago remains how their goaltending will hold up, as it's been the most suspect position for them on the ice.
The Nashville Predators, on the other hand, have just quietly gone about their business, and put together a nice season. In the East, they might even be looking at home-ice advantage, but the West is the tougher conference, and the Predators know it. However, Nashville has yet to win a playoff game on the road. They should pull one out this season, but don't be surprised to see the Blackhawks send the Predators home in 6.
#3 Vancouver Canucks vs. #6 Los Angeles Kings
The Vancouver Canucks have the NHL's top scorer, his twin brother, and solid defense and goaltending. They also have a player who might be on the NHL's own hitlist, especially given the way that Alex Burrows called out NHL officiating earlier this season (admittedly, with more than a fair reason). The Canucks will have to avoid getting into penalty trouble, which could be tough for them. Meanwhile, Roberto Luongo needs to be stellar in net, and he has a tendency to become merely human in high-pressure games.
The Los Angeles Kings, much like the Chicago Blackhawks, are one of those teams full of youth, size, and speed. They play a style of hockey that fits more closely with that played in the Eastern Conference, and they can pepper the net with shots. The Kings will need to take advantage of the Canucks early, and give themselves chances right away, otherwise Vancouver will lock the game down with their defensive play. All told, though, the Kings should prove triumphant, defeating Vancouver in 7.
#4 Phoenix Coyotes vs #5 Detroit Red Wings
The Phoenix Coyotes come into the playoffs the NHL's most-improved team. After dismal showings in past seasons, Dave Tippett and his coaching staff turned the team around, and molded them into a strong playoff contender. Unfortunately, everything good that has come to the Coyotes has been tinged by wonderings about how much the league has affected the outcome of games for the team that they own. If Phoenix wasn't owned by the NHL, their achievements wouldn't even be suspect. As it is, the Coyotes are definitely coming into the playoffs much better than anyone gave them reason to expect.
Too bad that their running into the Detroit Red Wings. Earlier this season, the Red Wings looked like a team that wasn't going to even make the playoffs, or might sneak in with the #8 spot. Then injured players returned, the team allowed Jimmy Howard to become a star goaltender, and Detroit rattled off a fantastic close to the season. They enter the playoffs the NHL's hottest team, and they aren't looking to go home in the first round after coming in second last year, and winning it all the year before. Expect that Detroit will handle Phoenix in 5 games.
#1 San Jose Sharks vs. #8 Colorado Avalanche
The San Jose Sharks spent the early part of the season looking like they were going to do exactly what Washington did in the East. However, instead of running away with the conference, the Sharks had to fend off some late pressure in the form of the Chicago Blackhawks. The Sharks are a team that has some fantastic forwards (Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau, Dany Heatley), solid goaltender (Evgeni Nabokov), and consistent defense. Because the Sharks had a challenge to keep the top spot, they should be a little better prepared than in year's past.
The Colorado Avalanche, on the other hand, didn't know if they would be in the playoffs until an impressive shoot-out win capped an unbelievable season for them. Matt Duchesne, a rookie who is getting serious Calder Trophy consideration, has helped to power the Avalance to an over-achieving season. Too bad for Colorado that they won't be able to survive against the San Jose onslaught, as the Sharks will dispatch the Avalanche in 5.
#2 Chicago Blackhawks vs. #7 Nashville Predators
Chicago has to hope that this year is the year they take home the heavy hardware, because, with the salary cap, a number of players are going to be wearing different jerseys next season. The Blackhawks spent, and it allowed them to put together a very strong team. Obviously, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews are expected to shoulder a lot of Chicago's offense, and Marian Hossa is hungry for his first championship, after coming in second two years in a row. The question for Chicago remains how their goaltending will hold up, as it's been the most suspect position for them on the ice.
The Nashville Predators, on the other hand, have just quietly gone about their business, and put together a nice season. In the East, they might even be looking at home-ice advantage, but the West is the tougher conference, and the Predators know it. However, Nashville has yet to win a playoff game on the road. They should pull one out this season, but don't be surprised to see the Blackhawks send the Predators home in 6.
#3 Vancouver Canucks vs. #6 Los Angeles Kings
The Vancouver Canucks have the NHL's top scorer, his twin brother, and solid defense and goaltending. They also have a player who might be on the NHL's own hitlist, especially given the way that Alex Burrows called out NHL officiating earlier this season (admittedly, with more than a fair reason). The Canucks will have to avoid getting into penalty trouble, which could be tough for them. Meanwhile, Roberto Luongo needs to be stellar in net, and he has a tendency to become merely human in high-pressure games.
The Los Angeles Kings, much like the Chicago Blackhawks, are one of those teams full of youth, size, and speed. They play a style of hockey that fits more closely with that played in the Eastern Conference, and they can pepper the net with shots. The Kings will need to take advantage of the Canucks early, and give themselves chances right away, otherwise Vancouver will lock the game down with their defensive play. All told, though, the Kings should prove triumphant, defeating Vancouver in 7.
#4 Phoenix Coyotes vs #5 Detroit Red Wings
The Phoenix Coyotes come into the playoffs the NHL's most-improved team. After dismal showings in past seasons, Dave Tippett and his coaching staff turned the team around, and molded them into a strong playoff contender. Unfortunately, everything good that has come to the Coyotes has been tinged by wonderings about how much the league has affected the outcome of games for the team that they own. If Phoenix wasn't owned by the NHL, their achievements wouldn't even be suspect. As it is, the Coyotes are definitely coming into the playoffs much better than anyone gave them reason to expect.
Too bad that their running into the Detroit Red Wings. Earlier this season, the Red Wings looked like a team that wasn't going to even make the playoffs, or might sneak in with the #8 spot. Then injured players returned, the team allowed Jimmy Howard to become a star goaltender, and Detroit rattled off a fantastic close to the season. They enter the playoffs the NHL's hottest team, and they aren't looking to go home in the first round after coming in second last year, and winning it all the year before. Expect that Detroit will handle Phoenix in 5 games.
Monday, April 5, 2010
2009-10 Game Seventy-Nine: Wild 3, Canucks 4 (OT)
In their first game officially out of the playoff race, the Minnesota Wild looked like a team that was on the brink of depression. At least, they did for the first forty minutes, where they just couldn't muster much in the way of offense, team spirit, or even a willingness to take to the ice. This was most notable in the lackluster response given when members of the Vancouver Canucks bowled over goaltender Niklas Backstrom. The Wild just didn't have a response, and, even though the power play was given chance after chance, nothing was happening.
That is, until the final period of the game. In those last twenty minutes, the Wild played some tough hockey, and capped it with a thrilling final minute of play, to push the Canucks into overtime. In the end, it wasn't enough, as the Wild fell yet again, but the last minute heroics may have set the stage for some things Wild fans might want to get used to next season.
Game pluses:
- Niklas Backstrom. It takes a tough goaltender to get run over all night long, and still keep his team in the game. Backstrom was the only reason that the Wild were within reach of Vancouver all night long, and he almost helped his team steal the game, even when being knocked flat onto the ice.
- Cody Almond. The Wild rookie notched his first NHL goal, scoring off of a pretty pass from fellow rookie, Casey Wellman. It helped create the last-minute heroics.
- No quit. The Wild haven't played the entire season like they had nothing to lose, but they managed to put together a thrilling twenty minutes based on pride and hard work. If it hadn't been for a questionable call in the overtime, Minnesota might have been the team skating away with two points.
Game minuses:
- Power play. No doubt about it, the Wild power play has struggled all season, and again came up empty with an extended 5-on-3. They also coughed up their NHL-leading 12th shorthanded goal, looking foolish while doing so.
- Penalties. Both teams got thrown into the box numerous times all night long, and that might mean a short postseason for Vancouver. However, some of the penalties (namely, the high sticking against Greg Zanon in the overtime, and the hooking against James Sheppard to give Vancouver a 5-on-3 advantage) really seemed like calls that shouldn't have been made, and dramatically changed the tone of the game.
- Playing for team. The Wild didn't have much of a team mentality through the beginning of the game. They allowed their goaltender to get pushed around, and, while interference penalties were called, Minnesota didn't do anything on their own to deter Vancouver from continuing to play that style.
Next up: The Wild skate into Edmonton, to finish their season series against the Oilers.
That is, until the final period of the game. In those last twenty minutes, the Wild played some tough hockey, and capped it with a thrilling final minute of play, to push the Canucks into overtime. In the end, it wasn't enough, as the Wild fell yet again, but the last minute heroics may have set the stage for some things Wild fans might want to get used to next season.
Game pluses:
- Niklas Backstrom. It takes a tough goaltender to get run over all night long, and still keep his team in the game. Backstrom was the only reason that the Wild were within reach of Vancouver all night long, and he almost helped his team steal the game, even when being knocked flat onto the ice.
- Cody Almond. The Wild rookie notched his first NHL goal, scoring off of a pretty pass from fellow rookie, Casey Wellman. It helped create the last-minute heroics.
- No quit. The Wild haven't played the entire season like they had nothing to lose, but they managed to put together a thrilling twenty minutes based on pride and hard work. If it hadn't been for a questionable call in the overtime, Minnesota might have been the team skating away with two points.
Game minuses:
- Power play. No doubt about it, the Wild power play has struggled all season, and again came up empty with an extended 5-on-3. They also coughed up their NHL-leading 12th shorthanded goal, looking foolish while doing so.
- Penalties. Both teams got thrown into the box numerous times all night long, and that might mean a short postseason for Vancouver. However, some of the penalties (namely, the high sticking against Greg Zanon in the overtime, and the hooking against James Sheppard to give Vancouver a 5-on-3 advantage) really seemed like calls that shouldn't have been made, and dramatically changed the tone of the game.
- Playing for team. The Wild didn't have much of a team mentality through the beginning of the game. They allowed their goaltender to get pushed around, and, while interference penalties were called, Minnesota didn't do anything on their own to deter Vancouver from continuing to play that style.
Next up: The Wild skate into Edmonton, to finish their season series against the Oilers.
2009-10 Game Seventy-Eight: Wild 2, Sharks 3
After the way the Wild played against the Chicago Blackhawks, they had to find something within themselves to get ready and return to the ice. It might have been even more important during their game against the San Jose Sharks, thanks to needing a win to stay mathematically in the playoff chase, and because it was their Fan Appreciation Night. The Wild have always had a strong connection to their fans, and that made Friday night's game something special for the team of 18,000.
It's just too bad that all of this happened against a Sharks team looking ready to steamroll through the early part of the playoffs. The Wild fought hard, and played with good intensity, but ended up coming up just short against the Western Conference leaders. The loss also confirmed what many have known for weeks; the Minnesota Wild will be watching this season's playoffs on television, instead of participating in them. Still, for a team that wasn't expected to make much noise in the conference, to last this far into the season before being officially out of the chase is an impressive feat.
Game pluses:
- Cal Clutterbuck. Clutterbuck tied his own personal record with ten hits. He also got things rolling for Minnesota, thanks to being in the right place at the right time, as his goal bounced off of his chest.
- Antti Miettinen. Yes, Miettinen can score goals, and he did so on the power play to bring the game back to even.
- James Sheppard. Much maligned, Sheppard has started to find his game, and almost put Minnesota in front, thanks to a penalty shot opportunity. He still has a lot of growing to do, however, and it may not be done in Minnesota.
Game minuses:
- Short bench. The Wild played a very physical game, and did so with only 11 forwards. With a team as offensively talented as San Jose, missing even one forward can definitely turn the game.
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild's goaltender has been somewhat exposed by the system, but a couple of fluky goals snuck past him, allowing San Jose to sweep the season series.
- Season. The season hasn't come to a complete close for the Wild, but there has to be a sense of sadness over officially ending their playoff chances. Not that there should have been much expectation for Minnesota to perform well in the playoffs, but knowing that it's time to look ahead to next season is always sobering.
Next up: The Wild finished up their season series against the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday.
It's just too bad that all of this happened against a Sharks team looking ready to steamroll through the early part of the playoffs. The Wild fought hard, and played with good intensity, but ended up coming up just short against the Western Conference leaders. The loss also confirmed what many have known for weeks; the Minnesota Wild will be watching this season's playoffs on television, instead of participating in them. Still, for a team that wasn't expected to make much noise in the conference, to last this far into the season before being officially out of the chase is an impressive feat.
Game pluses:
- Cal Clutterbuck. Clutterbuck tied his own personal record with ten hits. He also got things rolling for Minnesota, thanks to being in the right place at the right time, as his goal bounced off of his chest.
- Antti Miettinen. Yes, Miettinen can score goals, and he did so on the power play to bring the game back to even.
- James Sheppard. Much maligned, Sheppard has started to find his game, and almost put Minnesota in front, thanks to a penalty shot opportunity. He still has a lot of growing to do, however, and it may not be done in Minnesota.
Game minuses:
- Short bench. The Wild played a very physical game, and did so with only 11 forwards. With a team as offensively talented as San Jose, missing even one forward can definitely turn the game.
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild's goaltender has been somewhat exposed by the system, but a couple of fluky goals snuck past him, allowing San Jose to sweep the season series.
- Season. The season hasn't come to a complete close for the Wild, but there has to be a sense of sadness over officially ending their playoff chances. Not that there should have been much expectation for Minnesota to perform well in the playoffs, but knowing that it's time to look ahead to next season is always sobering.
Next up: The Wild finished up their season series against the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
2009-10 Game Sixty-Two: Wild 4, Flames 0
Now that the Olympics are a memory, the NHL was able to return to its business this week. The Minnesota Wild, with three freshly-minted bronze medal winners, had a little extra rest before they headed to Calgary, to take on a Flames team that has historically knocked the Wild around. There were definitely questions as to how the Wild would play. Would this be the same time that soundly defeated the Vancouver Canucks on Valentine's Day? Or would this be the team that struggled through so many points of this season? Only one thing was crystal clear, and was made so during the team's morning skate. This would not be a team including Eric Belanger any more.
Mere hours after trading the player who has been their best face-off man this season, the Wild dominated that stat against the Flames almost 2-to-1, and used that, along with some very well-placed shots, to derail the Flames, and climb to within four points of the final playoff spot. The Wild know that the road ahead of them is a tough one, but the team is obviously not willing to give up, and, for the first time in franchise history, the Wild have beaten the Flames four times in a row. They have a chance to make it five this weekend, but first, they'll be travelling to Edmonton.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain didn't even meet the team until they arrived in Calgary, but that didn't stop him from being all over the ice. Koivu was a dominant force, and he contributed offensively (two points) and defensively (bailing out his goaltender on a couple of rebound chances).
-Owen Nolan. A player that many felt may have been set up to move at the trade deadline instead chose to stay with Minnesota, and his career has given him the respect to do that. He responded with a big game, helping create the Wild's first goal, and providing the veteran grit that the Wild will need down the road.
- Niklas Backstrom. Sure, the start of the game looked a little shaky, and the Wild had to bail out their goaltender, but then Backstrom settled down and made some huge saves on the way to his second shutout of the season.
Game minuses:
- Officiating. Maybe the officials were still on an Olympic break. Absolutely no penalties called until Greg Zanon played the puck with a broken stick? The only other penalty coming on a retaliatory crosscheck? True, the game was fairly clean, but for only two penalties to be called all game long means that the officials weren't quite watching the same contest.
- Shots. The Wild won the game 4-0 with some good offense, so why complain about the shots? Because they didn't take enough of them as the game wore on. In fact, for parts of the second period, they looked like they were Team USA skating against Team Finland. The difference was that Team USA had amassed a six-goal lead, and Team Wild was clinging to a one-goal edge.
- Shane Hnidy. With so much of the Wild defense playing so incredibly well against Calgary, any one making more than a few puck-handling miscues got notice. That one against the Flames was Hnidy, who just couldn't seem to get a handle on the puck through much of the game.
Next up: The Wild look to see if they can keep their roll going against their divisional opponents Friday night, as they take on the Edmonton Oilers.
Mere hours after trading the player who has been their best face-off man this season, the Wild dominated that stat against the Flames almost 2-to-1, and used that, along with some very well-placed shots, to derail the Flames, and climb to within four points of the final playoff spot. The Wild know that the road ahead of them is a tough one, but the team is obviously not willing to give up, and, for the first time in franchise history, the Wild have beaten the Flames four times in a row. They have a chance to make it five this weekend, but first, they'll be travelling to Edmonton.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain didn't even meet the team until they arrived in Calgary, but that didn't stop him from being all over the ice. Koivu was a dominant force, and he contributed offensively (two points) and defensively (bailing out his goaltender on a couple of rebound chances).
-Owen Nolan. A player that many felt may have been set up to move at the trade deadline instead chose to stay with Minnesota, and his career has given him the respect to do that. He responded with a big game, helping create the Wild's first goal, and providing the veteran grit that the Wild will need down the road.
- Niklas Backstrom. Sure, the start of the game looked a little shaky, and the Wild had to bail out their goaltender, but then Backstrom settled down and made some huge saves on the way to his second shutout of the season.
Game minuses:
- Officiating. Maybe the officials were still on an Olympic break. Absolutely no penalties called until Greg Zanon played the puck with a broken stick? The only other penalty coming on a retaliatory crosscheck? True, the game was fairly clean, but for only two penalties to be called all game long means that the officials weren't quite watching the same contest.
- Shots. The Wild won the game 4-0 with some good offense, so why complain about the shots? Because they didn't take enough of them as the game wore on. In fact, for parts of the second period, they looked like they were Team USA skating against Team Finland. The difference was that Team USA had amassed a six-goal lead, and Team Wild was clinging to a one-goal edge.
- Shane Hnidy. With so much of the Wild defense playing so incredibly well against Calgary, any one making more than a few puck-handling miscues got notice. That one against the Flames was Hnidy, who just couldn't seem to get a handle on the puck through much of the game.
Next up: The Wild look to see if they can keep their roll going against their divisional opponents Friday night, as they take on the Edmonton Oilers.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
2009-10 Game Sixty-One: Wild 6, Canucks 2
It felt like it took a long time to reach the Olympic break, but that's just because NHL teams were playing at such a rapid clip. And, while the next two weeks are all about international play, after the Olympics are over, the league will return to its frantic pace. Of course, the Minnesota Wild had to feel like it took them even longer to reach the break, after the stoppage-filled debacle against Atlanta to start the weekend. The Wild desperately needed something to get them going again, and all it took was a home game against their most-hated rival to spur the team to playing as a unit.
How fitting that they would play so well just before having to play against their regular teammates for a couple of weeks? And how fitting was it that the Wild would end up going into a long break with possibly the biggest swing in momentum they've experienced yet this season? Minnesota still has an outside chance of making the playoffs, but, for the next two weeks, no questions will be answered. With twenty-one games left to play, the Wild sit five points back, and there's a pile of teams ahead of them in the standings. Still, beating Vancouver, and beating them soundly, had to feel good for a team that suffered through a couple of games that they should have won earlier in the week.
Game pluses:
- Kyle Brodziak. It must be something about playing the Canucks. Brodziak has put together very impressive games against Vancouver, notching three points this time around.
- Greg Zanon. While the score was huge in Minnesota's favor, a lot of the defensive play was looked over. Zanon acted as a secondary goaltender a few times, helping keep the puck out of the net when Niklas Backstrom found himself out of position.
- Cam Barker. The newest member of the Minnesota Wild played a strong game, keeping it simple in his first appearance. He stood tall defensively, and blasted his first Wild goal into the net. The goal may have been meaningless for the score, but it spoke volumes for Barker.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. He wasn't stellar in net, but, thankfully, didn't have to be, thanks to some help from Zanon, Barker, and a huge outpouring of goals from his teammates.
- Eric Belanger. Not that he played a bad game, per se, but Belanger is one of the players who should feel a little pressure after the Kim Johnsson trade, and he looked fairly lackluster on the ice.
- Darcy Hordichuk. As the season wears on, it's easier to find opposing players that get under a team's skin. Hordichuk has definitely succeeded in doing that. The last time Vancouver and Minnesota played, Hordichuk claimed that he was sent by his coach to fight, and then backed off of the comment. This time, he was a textbook example of a third man in a fight, and he did so by tossing Derek Boogaard to the ice from behind, with something resembling a horse collar tackle. Given that it would have been a penalty in the NFL, it wasn't surprising to see Hordichuk get hit with a 2-5-10 (instigation/fighting/misconduct) penalty.
Next up: The Wild don't return to the ice until March 3, when they face the Calgary Flames. The catch? March 3 is also the trade deadline. How different might the Wild look at that point? In the meantime, Olympic hockey should help keep you sated.
How fitting that they would play so well just before having to play against their regular teammates for a couple of weeks? And how fitting was it that the Wild would end up going into a long break with possibly the biggest swing in momentum they've experienced yet this season? Minnesota still has an outside chance of making the playoffs, but, for the next two weeks, no questions will be answered. With twenty-one games left to play, the Wild sit five points back, and there's a pile of teams ahead of them in the standings. Still, beating Vancouver, and beating them soundly, had to feel good for a team that suffered through a couple of games that they should have won earlier in the week.
Game pluses:
- Kyle Brodziak. It must be something about playing the Canucks. Brodziak has put together very impressive games against Vancouver, notching three points this time around.
- Greg Zanon. While the score was huge in Minnesota's favor, a lot of the defensive play was looked over. Zanon acted as a secondary goaltender a few times, helping keep the puck out of the net when Niklas Backstrom found himself out of position.
- Cam Barker. The newest member of the Minnesota Wild played a strong game, keeping it simple in his first appearance. He stood tall defensively, and blasted his first Wild goal into the net. The goal may have been meaningless for the score, but it spoke volumes for Barker.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. He wasn't stellar in net, but, thankfully, didn't have to be, thanks to some help from Zanon, Barker, and a huge outpouring of goals from his teammates.
- Eric Belanger. Not that he played a bad game, per se, but Belanger is one of the players who should feel a little pressure after the Kim Johnsson trade, and he looked fairly lackluster on the ice.
- Darcy Hordichuk. As the season wears on, it's easier to find opposing players that get under a team's skin. Hordichuk has definitely succeeded in doing that. The last time Vancouver and Minnesota played, Hordichuk claimed that he was sent by his coach to fight, and then backed off of the comment. This time, he was a textbook example of a third man in a fight, and he did so by tossing Derek Boogaard to the ice from behind, with something resembling a horse collar tackle. Given that it would have been a penalty in the NFL, it wasn't surprising to see Hordichuk get hit with a 2-5-10 (instigation/fighting/misconduct) penalty.
Next up: The Wild don't return to the ice until March 3, when they face the Calgary Flames. The catch? March 3 is also the trade deadline. How different might the Wild look at that point? In the meantime, Olympic hockey should help keep you sated.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
2009-10 Game Sixty: Wild 2, Thrashers 3
That sound you hear may just be the Wild's post-season hopes slipping away completely. In a game that the team felt they needed to win, against a team that they'd never lost to in regulation, the Wild did everything in their power to keep themselves out of the game. They just kept marching to the penalty box all night long, giving Atlanta a couple of different 5-on-3 situations, and at least one 4-on-3 situation.
Needless to say, the game was a whistle-fest, as neither team could really get anything moving. There was an average of one stoppage in play for every minute (probably more, actually), and that took any sort of momentum away for the most part. The few glimpses of sustained pressure came from an Atlanta team that has been cleaning house, obviously looking to set themselves up for next season, considering this one to be long gone.
And now the Wild have that decision looming ahead of them. The Minnesota front office felt that they needed to pull at least eight points out of this homestand to seriously fight for a playoff spot. Well, they now need to beat Vancouver on Sunday to do so, and that might be a big challenge, the way that they've played the last 5 periods. While the Wild didn't shy away from taking shots, like they did the previous game, they've got to relearn discipline.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain set up both Wild goals, and was competitive and buzzing all night long. He just needs someone else who can finish.
- Cal Clutterbuck. Consider him something of a battery. Not only did he work hard to help the Wild's second goal, but he kept trying to spark his team to do something.
- Greg Zanon. With the Wild trading their minutes leader, members of the defense needed to step up, and Zanon performed admirably, clocking in with 25 minutes of ice time.
Game minuses:
- Discipline. Admittedly, some of the penalties called, and some that weren't, were truly mind-boggling, but that doesn't make up for the fact that the Wild couldn't stay out of the penalty box. The most glaring example was after being handed a 4-minute power play, the Wild took two quick penalties to give Atlanta the man advantage.
- Derek Boogaard. Boogaard only had a minute of ice time. He was in the penalty box for longer than that. Boogaard has done well this season to not make himself a liability on the ice, but that wasn't the case against Atlanta.
- Pace. The pace to the game was awful. Earlier this season, the Wild played a game where they actually eliminated one of the television time-outs, due to a lack of whistles and play stoppages. In this game, they could have included another two or three to make up for the one missed.
Next up: The Wild desperately need a win, and they'll get to stay at home, with the same officiating crew, to find it. Newly acquired defenseman Cam Barker might be on the ice as Minnesota welcomes the Vancouver Canucks in the final game before the Olympic break.
Needless to say, the game was a whistle-fest, as neither team could really get anything moving. There was an average of one stoppage in play for every minute (probably more, actually), and that took any sort of momentum away for the most part. The few glimpses of sustained pressure came from an Atlanta team that has been cleaning house, obviously looking to set themselves up for next season, considering this one to be long gone.
And now the Wild have that decision looming ahead of them. The Minnesota front office felt that they needed to pull at least eight points out of this homestand to seriously fight for a playoff spot. Well, they now need to beat Vancouver on Sunday to do so, and that might be a big challenge, the way that they've played the last 5 periods. While the Wild didn't shy away from taking shots, like they did the previous game, they've got to relearn discipline.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. The Wild's captain set up both Wild goals, and was competitive and buzzing all night long. He just needs someone else who can finish.
- Cal Clutterbuck. Consider him something of a battery. Not only did he work hard to help the Wild's second goal, but he kept trying to spark his team to do something.
- Greg Zanon. With the Wild trading their minutes leader, members of the defense needed to step up, and Zanon performed admirably, clocking in with 25 minutes of ice time.
Game minuses:
- Discipline. Admittedly, some of the penalties called, and some that weren't, were truly mind-boggling, but that doesn't make up for the fact that the Wild couldn't stay out of the penalty box. The most glaring example was after being handed a 4-minute power play, the Wild took two quick penalties to give Atlanta the man advantage.
- Derek Boogaard. Boogaard only had a minute of ice time. He was in the penalty box for longer than that. Boogaard has done well this season to not make himself a liability on the ice, but that wasn't the case against Atlanta.
- Pace. The pace to the game was awful. Earlier this season, the Wild played a game where they actually eliminated one of the television time-outs, due to a lack of whistles and play stoppages. In this game, they could have included another two or three to make up for the one missed.
Next up: The Wild desperately need a win, and they'll get to stay at home, with the same officiating crew, to find it. Newly acquired defenseman Cam Barker might be on the ice as Minnesota welcomes the Vancouver Canucks in the final game before the Olympic break.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
2009-10 Game Forty-Seven: Wild 5, Canucks 2
What a tumultuous couple of days for both the Minnesota Wild and the Vancouver Canucks. Both teams found themselves embroiled in controversies that could seriously damage the reputation of the league, or at least Colin Campbell, who's regularly shown a glaring lack of consistency with regards to discipline. For Vancouver, there was the whole Alex Burrows/Stephane Auger issue, with Burrows accusing referee Auger of showing a definite bias, and costing Vancouver a game. The league responded by fining Burrows, but the fine was ridiculously small, especially for a professional athlete, so it lends some credence to the notion that maybe, just maybe, Burrows had a legitimate gripe. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild's Cal Clutterbuck was waiting to see what the NHL would do to Pittsburgh's Sergei Gonchar after Gonchar's illegal hit. This was a hit where Gonchar left his feet, specifically went for the head, and admitted to it being a payback hit, in a league that's supposedly trying to crack down on those exact types of plays. And yet, apparently Gonchar sitting in the penalty box was punishment enough for trying to take another player completely out of the game.
But none of that mattered Wednesday night, as the Wild and the Canucks squared off against each other. Minnesota jumped out to a fast start, scoring on their first two shots of the game, but then they faltered, allowing Vancouver to get back into the game. With the game tied at 2 entering the third period, Minnesota once again took control, and completed an improbable sweep over the Canucks. To add insult to injury, Vancouver tried to get something going on their end after the Wild had jumped out to a 5-2 lead, and they did it by starting fights. The problem? Nobody on Vancouver really matches up with the Wild heavyweights, and Minnesota won those battles handily, as well.
Game pluses:
- Niklas Backstrom. During a spotty second period for the Wild defense, Backstrom stood tall, holding the Wild in the game. He set a new mark for wins by a Wild goaltender by defeating the Canucks.
- Antti Miettinen. A game ago, it looked like Miettinen might need to find new linemates. Apparently, he felt the pressure, because he turned around and put two pucks in the net, including the game winner, and a late insurance marker.
- Owen Nolan. The grizzled veteran scored on a weird shot, but, more importantly, he had very good puck awareness, throwing his stick and body in the way of Vancouver shots, in one of his more impressive defensive showings.
Game minuses:
- Eric Belanger. Belanger didn't look like he had any speed in his skates against Vancouver, with the exception of one rush. To make matters worse, especially during the poor second period, Belanger didn't use much physical play, either, instead skating around without much energy.
- Robbie Earl. The kid has a lot of energy, so, in many ways, he played the exact opposite of Eric Belanger. The trouble with Earl right now is that he seems like he's trying to think too much on the ice, instead of just doing. He needs to start using his shot more, to be more than just a speedy skater on the ice.
- Fights. Yes, the Wild won all three fights pretty handily. But the reason that this ends up as a minus is this simple question, "Why was Vancouver fighting in the first place?". They didn't match up well, especially against Derek Boogaard and John Scott, and they ultimately paid the price. If Boogaard's assertion that the Canucks were "ordered" to fight by their coach is true, then it casts even more of a pall on the situation.
Next up: The Wild pulled themselves within two points of a playoff position with an improbable four-game winning streak, throttling some of the best teams in the league by a 19-11 score during that time. Can they keep their foot on the gas when they take on the St. Louis Blues, or will they suffer from a letdown that many feel has been coming since the come-from-behind victory over Chicago?
But none of that mattered Wednesday night, as the Wild and the Canucks squared off against each other. Minnesota jumped out to a fast start, scoring on their first two shots of the game, but then they faltered, allowing Vancouver to get back into the game. With the game tied at 2 entering the third period, Minnesota once again took control, and completed an improbable sweep over the Canucks. To add insult to injury, Vancouver tried to get something going on their end after the Wild had jumped out to a 5-2 lead, and they did it by starting fights. The problem? Nobody on Vancouver really matches up with the Wild heavyweights, and Minnesota won those battles handily, as well.
Game pluses:
- Niklas Backstrom. During a spotty second period for the Wild defense, Backstrom stood tall, holding the Wild in the game. He set a new mark for wins by a Wild goaltender by defeating the Canucks.
- Antti Miettinen. A game ago, it looked like Miettinen might need to find new linemates. Apparently, he felt the pressure, because he turned around and put two pucks in the net, including the game winner, and a late insurance marker.
- Owen Nolan. The grizzled veteran scored on a weird shot, but, more importantly, he had very good puck awareness, throwing his stick and body in the way of Vancouver shots, in one of his more impressive defensive showings.
Game minuses:
- Eric Belanger. Belanger didn't look like he had any speed in his skates against Vancouver, with the exception of one rush. To make matters worse, especially during the poor second period, Belanger didn't use much physical play, either, instead skating around without much energy.
- Robbie Earl. The kid has a lot of energy, so, in many ways, he played the exact opposite of Eric Belanger. The trouble with Earl right now is that he seems like he's trying to think too much on the ice, instead of just doing. He needs to start using his shot more, to be more than just a speedy skater on the ice.
- Fights. Yes, the Wild won all three fights pretty handily. But the reason that this ends up as a minus is this simple question, "Why was Vancouver fighting in the first place?". They didn't match up well, especially against Derek Boogaard and John Scott, and they ultimately paid the price. If Boogaard's assertion that the Canucks were "ordered" to fight by their coach is true, then it casts even more of a pall on the situation.
Next up: The Wild pulled themselves within two points of a playoff position with an improbable four-game winning streak, throttling some of the best teams in the league by a 19-11 score during that time. Can they keep their foot on the gas when they take on the St. Louis Blues, or will they suffer from a letdown that many feel has been coming since the come-from-behind victory over Chicago?
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
2009-10 Game Forty-Six: Wild 4, Penguins 3
The Minnesota Wild and the Pittsburgh Penguins played dueling forwards in Saint Paul. Lining up in that role for Pittsburgh was Sidney Crosby, the type of player that the league doesn't see that often. His counterpart for the Minnesota Wild was someone who wasn't even part of the team at the beginning of the season, but is quickly becoming proof that the Wild front office have an eye for talent that will fit. And who could have guessed that Guillaume Latendresse would end up coming up on the better side of things than "Sid the Kid"?
In all honesty, the Wild just outplayed the Penguins, and they kept their composure better. It seemed like all of the extracurriculars were started by guys in white jerseys, obviously frustrated that, even though they dumped almost forty shots on net, they were getting beat by a team that had barely put together twenty shots themselves. That, and Pittsburgh had to be feeling pressure, not wanting to fall to the Wild like Chicago did. At the end of the day, they took their own route to defeat, as the Wild pulled off another come-from-behind victory, and won their NHL-leading 17th one-goal game this season.
Game pluses:
- Guillaume Latendresse. Latendresse had the biggest night of his career, and he electrified the Xcel Energy Center crowd. One game after capping the Wild's huge comeback with the tying goal against the Blackhawks, Latendresse played a part in all four Minnesota goals, scoring the game winner.
- Martin Havlat. Latendresse may have found his home, but he apparently brought Marty Havlat's game with him. Havlat scored a goal of his own, and now has an eight-game point streak. His give-and-go with Latendresse was fantastic to watch.
- Niklas Backstrom. Sure, he gave up three goals. But he stopped far more chances than he had any right to, including a brilliant glove save that may have sealed the game for the Wild. Not a surprise, as Backstrom has a habit of bouncing back strong after getting pulled from a game.
Game minuses:
- Antti Miettinen. Right now, he's something of a non-presence on the ice, unless you're looking for someone to shoot the puck wide. Something needs to be shaken up on the Wild's top line, and Miettinen might be the odd man out.
- Power play. As it turns out, the Wild didn't need to score with the extra man, but they had a beautiful opportunity to do so during a five-minute major. However, as so many Wild power plays have gone this season, the puck was cycled without any real threat in the offensive zone. Something has to click.
- Sergei Gonchar. Normally, events for the Wild are focused on here. But it's hard to ignore what Sergei Gonchar did to Cal Clutterbuck in retaliation for a clean hit. Gonchar may face suspension for his hit, since it certainly looked like there was an intent to cause injury. He also got lucky to not get tossed out of the game for misconduct. Clutterbuck may antagonize other players, but it's largely because he's physical and plays a clean game. There was no excuse for what Gonchar did, and he deserves to sit for a while because of it.
Next up: The Wild started this current winning streak by beating a divisional opponent. Can they keep it going by taking their first victory of the season from the Vancouver Canucks?
In all honesty, the Wild just outplayed the Penguins, and they kept their composure better. It seemed like all of the extracurriculars were started by guys in white jerseys, obviously frustrated that, even though they dumped almost forty shots on net, they were getting beat by a team that had barely put together twenty shots themselves. That, and Pittsburgh had to be feeling pressure, not wanting to fall to the Wild like Chicago did. At the end of the day, they took their own route to defeat, as the Wild pulled off another come-from-behind victory, and won their NHL-leading 17th one-goal game this season.
Game pluses:
- Guillaume Latendresse. Latendresse had the biggest night of his career, and he electrified the Xcel Energy Center crowd. One game after capping the Wild's huge comeback with the tying goal against the Blackhawks, Latendresse played a part in all four Minnesota goals, scoring the game winner.
- Martin Havlat. Latendresse may have found his home, but he apparently brought Marty Havlat's game with him. Havlat scored a goal of his own, and now has an eight-game point streak. His give-and-go with Latendresse was fantastic to watch.
- Niklas Backstrom. Sure, he gave up three goals. But he stopped far more chances than he had any right to, including a brilliant glove save that may have sealed the game for the Wild. Not a surprise, as Backstrom has a habit of bouncing back strong after getting pulled from a game.
Game minuses:
- Antti Miettinen. Right now, he's something of a non-presence on the ice, unless you're looking for someone to shoot the puck wide. Something needs to be shaken up on the Wild's top line, and Miettinen might be the odd man out.
- Power play. As it turns out, the Wild didn't need to score with the extra man, but they had a beautiful opportunity to do so during a five-minute major. However, as so many Wild power plays have gone this season, the puck was cycled without any real threat in the offensive zone. Something has to click.
- Sergei Gonchar. Normally, events for the Wild are focused on here. But it's hard to ignore what Sergei Gonchar did to Cal Clutterbuck in retaliation for a clean hit. Gonchar may face suspension for his hit, since it certainly looked like there was an intent to cause injury. He also got lucky to not get tossed out of the game for misconduct. Clutterbuck may antagonize other players, but it's largely because he's physical and plays a clean game. There was no excuse for what Gonchar did, and he deserves to sit for a while because of it.
Next up: The Wild started this current winning streak by beating a divisional opponent. Can they keep it going by taking their first victory of the season from the Vancouver Canucks?
Monday, December 14, 2009
2009-10 Game Thirty-Two: Wild 3, Canucks 4
The end of an extended road trip. The sixth game in eight days. Fresh off of an unlikely, but energetic win. It wouldn't surprise anyone if the Minnesota Wild had come out flat against the Vancouver Canucks, and skated quietly into the night. Instead, the Wild showed life, and, if it hadn't been for some very questionable officiating, the Wild might have finished their time away from Saint Paul with a 4-1 road mark.
However, regardless of the penalty status, the Wild did start off a bit slow, and that allowed the Canucks to get a quick jump. When given that opportunity, few take it as quickly or as efficiently as the Sedin twins, who put up huge nights against Minnesota. It certainly didn't help that the Wild penalty kill was as strong as wet paper, and that Josh Harding played one of his worst games in awhile. Still, the Wild didn't shut down, and made a game of it, continually fighting to get back into it. This is drastically different from the team that began this season.
Game pluses:
- Martin Havlat. Havlat definitely looks like he's found his game. After playing a part in both Wild goals against Calgary, he followed up by notching a goal and two assists. The last two games, Havlat has been the catalyst for the offense, and this can only help the team.
- Faceoffs. The Wild won over 70% of the faceoffs against the Canucks, and that number helped create an exciting end to the game. Unfortunately, Minnesota didn't do enough to capitalize on that puck possession advantage.
- Surprising contributions. Who would have guessed that, before Havlat, the Wild goal scorers would be Greg Zanon and Shane Hnidy? Both defensemen scooped up fantastic feeds from Martin Havlat, and put terrific shots into the net.
Game minuses:
- Game ownership. The Wild had the advantage in faceoffs, in shots, and, in many ways, in control of the game when playing it five-on-five. And yet they stopped moving the puck, instead relying on the method of shooting pucks straight into the goaltender's body. The Wild need to get better about getting the opposing goalie moving, or getting shots on net that are likely to create rebounds.
- Josh Harding. True, Harding played the game while battling an illness, and that may have contributed to his poor showing. He also didn't secure the posts, and dropped into his butterfly far too quickly. Vancouver knew it, and they showed it by putting shots up and towards the corners.
- Special teams. The Wild got victimized by questionable penalties, but didn't do enough to kill off Vancouver power plays. When they got their chance with the man advantage, including a full four minutes, they retreated to the old system of making too many passes, and not getting enough shots on net. Now that the rest of the game seems to be clicking, it might be time for the Wild to look seriously at their special teams, and figure out what needs to be done to make them work again.
Next up: The Wild return home for one game, facing off against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday night.
However, regardless of the penalty status, the Wild did start off a bit slow, and that allowed the Canucks to get a quick jump. When given that opportunity, few take it as quickly or as efficiently as the Sedin twins, who put up huge nights against Minnesota. It certainly didn't help that the Wild penalty kill was as strong as wet paper, and that Josh Harding played one of his worst games in awhile. Still, the Wild didn't shut down, and made a game of it, continually fighting to get back into it. This is drastically different from the team that began this season.
Game pluses:
- Martin Havlat. Havlat definitely looks like he's found his game. After playing a part in both Wild goals against Calgary, he followed up by notching a goal and two assists. The last two games, Havlat has been the catalyst for the offense, and this can only help the team.
- Faceoffs. The Wild won over 70% of the faceoffs against the Canucks, and that number helped create an exciting end to the game. Unfortunately, Minnesota didn't do enough to capitalize on that puck possession advantage.
- Surprising contributions. Who would have guessed that, before Havlat, the Wild goal scorers would be Greg Zanon and Shane Hnidy? Both defensemen scooped up fantastic feeds from Martin Havlat, and put terrific shots into the net.
Game minuses:
- Game ownership. The Wild had the advantage in faceoffs, in shots, and, in many ways, in control of the game when playing it five-on-five. And yet they stopped moving the puck, instead relying on the method of shooting pucks straight into the goaltender's body. The Wild need to get better about getting the opposing goalie moving, or getting shots on net that are likely to create rebounds.
- Josh Harding. True, Harding played the game while battling an illness, and that may have contributed to his poor showing. He also didn't secure the posts, and dropped into his butterfly far too quickly. Vancouver knew it, and they showed it by putting shots up and towards the corners.
- Special teams. The Wild got victimized by questionable penalties, but didn't do enough to kill off Vancouver power plays. When they got their chance with the man advantage, including a full four minutes, they retreated to the old system of making too many passes, and not getting enough shots on net. Now that the rest of the game seems to be clicking, it might be time for the Wild to look seriously at their special teams, and figure out what needs to be done to make them work again.
Next up: The Wild return home for one game, facing off against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday night.
Friday, November 6, 2009
2009-10 Game Fifteen: Wild 2, Canucks 5
Let the excuses roll in. The Wild didn't take an injury-riddled Canucks team seriously. Too much time between games caused them to lose their skating legs. The team still hasn't adjusted to the time change.
Unfortunately, the truth of the matter is that the basement-dwelling Minnesota Wild played one of their least-inspired games of the season, and, after stealing games from the New York Rangers and the Pittsburgh Penguins, collapsed hard, letting Vancouver take the game from them with ease. The Wild couldn't skate, couldn't pass, and couldn't shoot. Just as soon as they looked like they were able to start turning the tide, Vancouver would give the Wild a power play, and any sense of momentum was destroyed. To make matters worse, the Wild lost leading scorer Eric Belanger in the second period with an unspecified upper body injury, which explained the mixing and matching being done with his linemates.
Game pluses:
- Kyle Brodziak. Brodziak became the first Wild player to score two goals in one game this season, and scored both by picking up the trash and gathering in rebounds.
- Cal Clutterbuck. The Wild's hit leader assisted on Brodziak's first goal, and generated some chances on his own.
- Chuck Kobasew. Rounding out the only Wild line that looked like it wanted to win, Kobasew helped Brodziak and Clutterbuck create opportunities, and applied some good hits to shake Canucks loose from the puck.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. After being the biggest reason the Wild defeated New York and Pittsburgh, Backstrom became their biggest liability. He wasn't sharp, and none of the four goals he gave up were highlight reel shots.
- James Sheppard. Sheppard has looked lost all season, and still hasn't put together even an assist, now through fifteen games. Sheppard also coughed up the puck early, leading directly to Darcy Hordichuk's goal that set a slow-moving Wild team into reverse.
- Derek Boogaard. Not that there weren't other players who made serious mistakes, but taking an undisciplined penalty at the end of a period, and then making it worse by turning it into a double-minor, all while your team is down by a goal? Not smart, and the Canucks converted the power play for a 2-0 lead that they never looked back from.
Next up: The Wild will get better than this, and they'll develop consistency, but the question remains as to when that will all happen. Perhaps the game Saturday against the visiting Dallas Stars will give the team some life.
Unfortunately, the truth of the matter is that the basement-dwelling Minnesota Wild played one of their least-inspired games of the season, and, after stealing games from the New York Rangers and the Pittsburgh Penguins, collapsed hard, letting Vancouver take the game from them with ease. The Wild couldn't skate, couldn't pass, and couldn't shoot. Just as soon as they looked like they were able to start turning the tide, Vancouver would give the Wild a power play, and any sense of momentum was destroyed. To make matters worse, the Wild lost leading scorer Eric Belanger in the second period with an unspecified upper body injury, which explained the mixing and matching being done with his linemates.
Game pluses:
- Kyle Brodziak. Brodziak became the first Wild player to score two goals in one game this season, and scored both by picking up the trash and gathering in rebounds.
- Cal Clutterbuck. The Wild's hit leader assisted on Brodziak's first goal, and generated some chances on his own.
- Chuck Kobasew. Rounding out the only Wild line that looked like it wanted to win, Kobasew helped Brodziak and Clutterbuck create opportunities, and applied some good hits to shake Canucks loose from the puck.
Game minuses:
- Niklas Backstrom. After being the biggest reason the Wild defeated New York and Pittsburgh, Backstrom became their biggest liability. He wasn't sharp, and none of the four goals he gave up were highlight reel shots.
- James Sheppard. Sheppard has looked lost all season, and still hasn't put together even an assist, now through fifteen games. Sheppard also coughed up the puck early, leading directly to Darcy Hordichuk's goal that set a slow-moving Wild team into reverse.
- Derek Boogaard. Not that there weren't other players who made serious mistakes, but taking an undisciplined penalty at the end of a period, and then making it worse by turning it into a double-minor, all while your team is down by a goal? Not smart, and the Canucks converted the power play for a 2-0 lead that they never looked back from.
Next up: The Wild will get better than this, and they'll develop consistency, but the question remains as to when that will all happen. Perhaps the game Saturday against the visiting Dallas Stars will give the team some life.
Monday, November 2, 2009
2009-10 Game Fourteen: Wild 2, Penguins 1
Less than twenty-four hours after the Minnesota Wild earned their first regulation home win for the season, they faced a daunting task. That task? Head to the home of the Stanley Cup champions, and try to avoid extending their winless streak on the road. Who would have predicted that they would do just that, handing the Penguins one of very few losses?
Even more interesting, the Wild were actually outplayed in a lot of areas of the game. In a lot of ways, it was very similar to the way that the Wild played against the Edmonton Oilers a few weeks back, where the team that was better throughout the game ran into a hot goaltender and some stellar defense.
Game pluses:
- Eric Belanger. He paid a price late in the game, taking a stick across his nose. But his goal with 0.6 seconds remaining in the first stood up as the game winner, and it helped ease the pain.
- Niklas Backstrom. One again, Backstrom stood tall in net, keeping the Wild in the game. The difference this time is that he got a lot of help when he coughed up the few rebounds he did. Most of the time, however, it was one shot and an immediate whistle.
- Marek Zidlicky. Arguably, the best play made by the Wild all game was when Zidlicky goaded Sidney Crosby into a fight to end the second period.
Game minuses:
- Defensive zone possession. The Wild couldn't get the puck on their sticks in their own zone. Even worse, they couldn't seem to get the puck out without giving up a scoring chance.
- Opportunism. Aside from Kyle Brodziak's goal from the side of the net, and Belanger's quick release, the Wild just didn't seem like they could put themselves in the right place much of the game.
- Officiating. Both teams committed penalties that didn't get called, but Pittsburgh seemed to get a bit more benefit. While not every penalty can, or should, be called, sometimes games can get out of hand if the players are allowed to skate too freely.
Next up: The Wild have some time off, which might be the last thing they want with their current momentum. They'll face the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night.
Even more interesting, the Wild were actually outplayed in a lot of areas of the game. In a lot of ways, it was very similar to the way that the Wild played against the Edmonton Oilers a few weeks back, where the team that was better throughout the game ran into a hot goaltender and some stellar defense.
Game pluses:
- Eric Belanger. He paid a price late in the game, taking a stick across his nose. But his goal with 0.6 seconds remaining in the first stood up as the game winner, and it helped ease the pain.
- Niklas Backstrom. One again, Backstrom stood tall in net, keeping the Wild in the game. The difference this time is that he got a lot of help when he coughed up the few rebounds he did. Most of the time, however, it was one shot and an immediate whistle.
- Marek Zidlicky. Arguably, the best play made by the Wild all game was when Zidlicky goaded Sidney Crosby into a fight to end the second period.
Game minuses:
- Defensive zone possession. The Wild couldn't get the puck on their sticks in their own zone. Even worse, they couldn't seem to get the puck out without giving up a scoring chance.
- Opportunism. Aside from Kyle Brodziak's goal from the side of the net, and Belanger's quick release, the Wild just didn't seem like they could put themselves in the right place much of the game.
- Officiating. Both teams committed penalties that didn't get called, but Pittsburgh seemed to get a bit more benefit. While not every penalty can, or should, be called, sometimes games can get out of hand if the players are allowed to skate too freely.
Next up: The Wild have some time off, which might be the last thing they want with their current momentum. They'll face the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night.
Monday, October 19, 2009
2009-10 Game Seven: Wild 1, Canucks 2
After playing well and still getting beaten badly, nobody would have been surprised if the Wild completely collapsed, just hoping for a long trip back to St. Paul to tend to their wounds for a bit before their next game. That wasn't in the cards for Minnesota, as they played another tough game, this time against the Vancouver Canucks.
Part of the reason that the Wild didn't collapse completely is that the Canucks are in the middle of a slow start to their season, as well. It didn't help Vancouver that they had to play the game without one of the Sedin twins, and they had to face a Minnesota team scrapping for every inch they could get. When the Wild ended the first period with the lead, there was a hint of something positive happening to a team that desperately needs some good news. Unfortunately, the long road trip and too much time playing from behind took the wind out of Minnesota's sails, and the Canucks ended up overtaking an exhausted Wild team, sending them packing with a miserable 0-5 road record to start the season.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. Koivu's goal may not have been intended to be a shot, but it ended up in the back of the net either way. Koivu's intensity and fire have been bright spots for the Wild this season, and he needs to keep making the steps he has.
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild wouldn't have even been in the game if it hadn't been for Backstrom. He survived almost 40 shots, and kept giving the Wild chances to get back moving forward.
- Benoit Pouliot. Pouliot may have finally found the fire that was missing in previous stints in the NHL. He continued playing in front of the net, and even helped clear some of the Canucks out of Backstrom's way.
Game minuses:
- James Sheppard. Sheppard, like Pouliot, tried clearing Canucks out of the crease. Sheppard, like Pouliot, took a penalty for it. Sheppard, unlike Pouliot, chose an awful time and a foolish penalty to take. The ensuing power play gave Vancouver the game winner.
- Power play. Maybe it was exhaustion from too much time losing, but the Wild power play just couldn't get things moving.
- Energy. The Wild just didn't have any, and it caused them to forget what they were doing. By the end of the game, the Wild just didn't have enough gas to put together a legitimate threat to tie the game.
Next up: Things may get better for the Wild as they return home, and, hopefully, see the returns of Martin Havlat and Petr Sykora. The Wild are also met in St. Paul by new acquisition Chuck Kobasew, as they prepare to wear their third jerseys for the first time Wednesday night in a game against the Colorado Avalanche.
Part of the reason that the Wild didn't collapse completely is that the Canucks are in the middle of a slow start to their season, as well. It didn't help Vancouver that they had to play the game without one of the Sedin twins, and they had to face a Minnesota team scrapping for every inch they could get. When the Wild ended the first period with the lead, there was a hint of something positive happening to a team that desperately needs some good news. Unfortunately, the long road trip and too much time playing from behind took the wind out of Minnesota's sails, and the Canucks ended up overtaking an exhausted Wild team, sending them packing with a miserable 0-5 road record to start the season.
Game pluses:
- Mikko Koivu. Koivu's goal may not have been intended to be a shot, but it ended up in the back of the net either way. Koivu's intensity and fire have been bright spots for the Wild this season, and he needs to keep making the steps he has.
- Niklas Backstrom. The Wild wouldn't have even been in the game if it hadn't been for Backstrom. He survived almost 40 shots, and kept giving the Wild chances to get back moving forward.
- Benoit Pouliot. Pouliot may have finally found the fire that was missing in previous stints in the NHL. He continued playing in front of the net, and even helped clear some of the Canucks out of Backstrom's way.
Game minuses:
- James Sheppard. Sheppard, like Pouliot, tried clearing Canucks out of the crease. Sheppard, like Pouliot, took a penalty for it. Sheppard, unlike Pouliot, chose an awful time and a foolish penalty to take. The ensuing power play gave Vancouver the game winner.
- Power play. Maybe it was exhaustion from too much time losing, but the Wild power play just couldn't get things moving.
- Energy. The Wild just didn't have any, and it caused them to forget what they were doing. By the end of the game, the Wild just didn't have enough gas to put together a legitimate threat to tie the game.
Next up: Things may get better for the Wild as they return home, and, hopefully, see the returns of Martin Havlat and Petr Sykora. The Wild are also met in St. Paul by new acquisition Chuck Kobasew, as they prepare to wear their third jerseys for the first time Wednesday night in a game against the Colorado Avalanche.
2009-10 Game Six: Wild 2, Oilers 5
On the first night of back-to-back games, the Minnesota Wild skated hard, fought for the puck, and, even though they were missing some of their top players, they ultimately outplayed the Edmonton Oilers in most areas of the ice. Unfortunately for the Wild, even a great effort can fall apart, as the Wild's mistakes almost invariably created scoring chances for the Oilers, and Edmonton made their chances count.
The Wild fought hard through the game, and looked like they might have been able to take their first road win of the season during portions of the game. By the time the third period started, however, Minnesota had obviously spent too much of their time on the road trailing their opponents, and they came out relatively flat-footed. It didn't help matters that the Wild power play continues to showcase stunning displays of ineptitude, interpersed with a few sparkling plays. The effort put forth by Minnesota should have landed the team a win, but, without finishers like Martin Havlat and Petr Sykora, the Wild just couldn't get the puck into the net.
Game pluses:
- Benoit Pouliot. When Havlat and Sykora went down, the Wild challenged a few players to step up. One who has done so is Pouliot, who is starting to show a physical side, as he gets to the front of the net.
- Andrew Brunette. The veteran continued his points streak, scoring at least once per game for the Wild since the first puck drop. That quiet leadership is needed for a team in danger of falling apart.
- Kyle Brodziak. The former Oiler put together an impressive game against his old team, fighting for the puck all game long and shaking it free from more than a few Oiler sticks.
Game minuses:
- Josh Harding. Harding has designs on being a starting goaltender in the league. His last two starts showed a goaltender who might have a place in the league, but that league might be the AHL. His delay of game penalty early in the game was completely inexcusable, as was the way he dropped the puck, practically handing Edmonton their third goal.
- Second chances. The Wild took a ton of shots. They just couldn't get there for the rebound most of the time. They need to get better in front of the opposing net if they want to make something of the perimeter shots they're being given.
- James Sheppard. While one of the players asked to step up did so, another stood in the same place, if not taking a step backward. Sheppard is showing why development in the AHL can be so important, as he still hasn't developed into the player he was expected to be.
Next up: The Wild traveled from Edmonton to Vancouver, hoping to finish the road trip on an up note against the Canucks.
The Wild fought hard through the game, and looked like they might have been able to take their first road win of the season during portions of the game. By the time the third period started, however, Minnesota had obviously spent too much of their time on the road trailing their opponents, and they came out relatively flat-footed. It didn't help matters that the Wild power play continues to showcase stunning displays of ineptitude, interpersed with a few sparkling plays. The effort put forth by Minnesota should have landed the team a win, but, without finishers like Martin Havlat and Petr Sykora, the Wild just couldn't get the puck into the net.
Game pluses:
- Benoit Pouliot. When Havlat and Sykora went down, the Wild challenged a few players to step up. One who has done so is Pouliot, who is starting to show a physical side, as he gets to the front of the net.
- Andrew Brunette. The veteran continued his points streak, scoring at least once per game for the Wild since the first puck drop. That quiet leadership is needed for a team in danger of falling apart.
- Kyle Brodziak. The former Oiler put together an impressive game against his old team, fighting for the puck all game long and shaking it free from more than a few Oiler sticks.
Game minuses:
- Josh Harding. Harding has designs on being a starting goaltender in the league. His last two starts showed a goaltender who might have a place in the league, but that league might be the AHL. His delay of game penalty early in the game was completely inexcusable, as was the way he dropped the puck, practically handing Edmonton their third goal.
- Second chances. The Wild took a ton of shots. They just couldn't get there for the rebound most of the time. They need to get better in front of the opposing net if they want to make something of the perimeter shots they're being given.
- James Sheppard. While one of the players asked to step up did so, another stood in the same place, if not taking a step backward. Sheppard is showing why development in the AHL can be so important, as he still hasn't developed into the player he was expected to be.
Next up: The Wild traveled from Edmonton to Vancouver, hoping to finish the road trip on an up note against the Canucks.
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