This afternoon I watched Game 7 of the '94 series against the Devils on the NHL Network. Then tonight I tuned in to the Rangers' must-win match against the Thrashers down in Atlanta. What a contrast. The current team showed their true colours, folding like a cheap suit. I am usually loathe to use the '94 team as a point of comparison but do you think that Keenan or Messier would have let the team relent against a bottom-feeding team of AHL talent?
No, I didn't think so.
A lot of fingers can be pointed in this one, from the pedestrian performance by Marc Staal and Dan Girardi to Brandon Dubinsky not covering Todd White on the game-tying goal to Valley not even flinching as White scored in the shootout. The biggest finger is aimed at John Tortorella as the coach failed for the first time in his tenure. Sure, there have been losses, but Torts let the Rangers take their foot off the gas after going up 4-1 and left the door open for the Thrashers to battle back.
The Rangers had everything to play for but they lost to a team with nothing to lose. That's why they call them spoilers and that's why the Rangers - if they even make the playoffs (which is not looking so good at the moment) - will fail in the first round. Change the coach, change some of the spare parts and the team picks itself up but it is the same team of underachieving slackers who got Tom Renney fired.
Is this an over-reaction? The team did hold on to get a point in the standings and still is in playoff position with seven games left. But what we saw tonight from the Rangers was supposed to have been eradicated with the changes that were made so it is utterly infuriating to see the same ole story again is simply infuriating and utterly unacceptable.
*I do my best to ignore Joe Micheletti as he is a complete and utter incompetent excuse for a colour guy but my buddy Pat reminded me - Joe said that the three-goal lead the Rangers gained was "safe." The so-called professional broadcaster, who called the 6-5 loss in Montreal, should know better.
*Nice goal by Nik Zherdev to officially start the game's scoring, wristing the puck inside the post on a rebound from the high slot. It was a nice shot but did anyone else notice that all five Thrashers were standing around, watching him skate? They were like that for most of the first two periods and the Rangers didn't take full advantage of it. Instead of pouring it on and putting pucks in, they took dumb penalties.
*I said Z officially started the scoring because there was a goal appropriately waved off earlier in the period. While it would have been for Dru to score, he did hit it with a high stick. It was close, but appeared to be the right call.
*It was a questionable call to not use Z in the shootout. How a skill player like that can be left on the bench is stupefying to me.
*Dru didn't let himself get down by the no-goal call and just kept firing. He got himself an assist in the second period when his shot from the left wing that was going wide deflected off of Borat's skate and went in for a power play goal to make it 2-1. Then, just moments later, Dru's open slap shot from the right wing minutes later flew past Hedberg to give the Rangers a two goal lead.
*However, it is hard to give Dru a lot of credit as he is supposed to lead the team and he clearly is not a leader. I just caught a second of his post-game interview and he had the same demeanor as he did during his second intermission interview. I've said it any number of times, the Rangers need a cult of personality to lead them and they don't have one. Is Dru a good hockey player and proven winner? Certainly. But he isn't a leader.
*Valley's red power drink + white away jersey = headache for the equipment manager.
*Speaking of Valley, why the hell did he start? Is there any way the Devils would bench Brodeur around now? How about the Sharks putting Nabokov on the shelf? Luongo? Mason? Backstrom? Theodore? When every win is needed, you need to ride your starter.
*Sean Avery = headache for everyone. And, seemingly, the referees don't want to deal with him. His rep is gone and anything close to a call will be called, like that ridiculous first period interference penalty. Avery came back to draw Kovy into a penalty in the third, but had it been someone else, there would have been more than two minutes called on Kovy. Not only did Kovalchuk crosscheck Avery, but he then chopped at Avery's face as he was down on the ice. That's obscene and suspension-worthy but won't have any repercussions - after all, Avery is fair game in Bettman's NHL. There is nothing more than the league wants than for Avery to go away.
*Kari Lehtonen did get hurt on that first period "interference" play, after being hit by his own teammate. But Lehtonen is made out of glass, he gets hurt by everything.
*This is the problem with the NHL now that there are too many teams - when one of the lesser lights gets eliminated, they populate their roster with half-wit no talent clowns who can hardly play. Sure, there are some stars, but the majority of Atlanta's team does not belong in the NHL and they proved it by hacking, slashing, high sticking and injuring the Rangers. I have no problem with a team playing hard, I have a problem with a team playing recklessly.
*Slightly OT: You know that annoying Optimum Online commercial where the guy has the hockey jerseys of the three local teams talking about their games being available in HD? The Ranger jersey is a Lundqvist, the Islanders is a DiPietro and the Devils jersey? Blank. Hmmm ...
*When Renney ran out of ideas to make the power play successful, he finally grasped at the straw we had all been calling for - putting a forward on the point. Torts is still in the early stages of his tenure but he had Z play the point on the top unit, but that was doomed to fail as the lone defenseman was Wade "Out and Drown" Redden. The special team did score two goals in the second period but the second unit accounted for both. The first unit couldn't do anything right.
*Scott Gomez skated for nearly nine minutes of power play time and didn't do a damned thing. He was on the ice for 26:37, more than any forward in the game and couldn't get past players who couldn't carry his jock in terms of skill or resume.
*One of the good things to come out of this was that Mike Sauer had another fine game. The lone mistake I saw was a giveaway across the Ranger blueline with a few minutes left in the second period. To the kid's credit, he stayed with his man the rest of the play and the Rangers were able to get the puck out with no problems.
*Credit to his partner, Paul Mara, for his fortitude. Mara took a high stick to the face, underwent repairs and returned. He is a real hockey player, unlike Lehtonen.
*Derek Morris played his best game as a Ranger.
*Atlanta had to be pissed as they had a goal waved off in the first period. Valley stopped the initial shot and a Thrasher banged in the rebound - but the ref had blown the whistle early. No whistle rang out in second when Hedberg made the first save and Naslund jammed the puck home. One was a good move by the ref, the other is not. I am a Ranger fan so I won't distinguish which ...
*Given how good the Ranger penalty kill is and how well Colton Orr fights, why wasn't Orr sent out to pick a fight and/or hammer Kovalchuk? Perhaps a physical presence would have helped stop the Atlanta momentum. Just a thought.
*Stat of the game: Atlanta's Rich Peverly won one faceoff. He took 19.
*PHW Three Stars
3-Chris Drury - one goal and two assists.
2-Ilya Kovalchuk - one goal and two assists.
1-Todd White - one goal, one assist and the shootout game-winner.
Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Zach Bogosian - The 18 year old played with more poise than any of the other defensemen in the game. He played a ton of minutes and never got flustered.
2-White - He is a shifty center with good speed and hockey sense. White put himself into good positions to make or finish plays and let Kovy do the rest.
1-Kovy - He is a game-breaker with All-World talent. Too bad the only player on the Rangers with those qualifications was left on the bench for this game. Perhaps the team will play better against the Pens on Saturday when Hank is put back in the crease.
Peepin' Foes: New Jersey Devils - A Deep Dive into the Garden State Hockey
The New Jersey Devils, an NHL franchise that calls the Garden State home, have been a prominent and often enigmatic force in the world of hockey. Founded in 1974 as the Kansas City Scouts and later rebranded as the Colorado Rockies before settling in New Jersey, the Devils have had a storied history filled with triumphs, controversies, and memorable moments. In this article, we'll take a comprehensive look at the New Jersey Devils, exploring their origins, notable players, iconic moments, and their impact on the NHL.
Origins and Early Years
Kansas City Scouts: The Devils' history begins with their roots as the Kansas City Scouts, an expansion team that joined the NHL in 1974. Unfortunately, their time in Kansas City was short-lived, lasting only two seasons.
Colorado Rockies: Following their stint in Kansas City, the franchise moved to Denver, Colorado, and became the Colorado Rockies. However, their time in Colorado was also marked by struggles, both on and off the ice.
Settling in New Jersey
Move to New Jersey: In 1982, the franchise found a new home in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and was renamed the New Jersey Devils. This move marked a turning point in the team's history.
The Turnaround: The Devils gradually transformed from an underperforming team into a formidable contender. This transformation was largely attributed to the arrival of Lou Lamoriello, who took over as the team's president and general manager in 1987.
Glory Days: The Stanley Cup Championships
1995 Stanley Cup: The Devils won their first Stanley Cup in the lockout-shortened 1994-95 season. Led by coach Jacques Lemaire and goaltender Martin Brodeur, they defeated the Detroit Red Wings in a four-game sweep.
2000 and 2003 Stanley Cups: The Devils added two more championships to their collection in 2000 and 2003. These victories solidified their status as a dominant force in the NHL during the early 2000s.
Notable Players
Martin Brodeur: Widely regarded as one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history, Martin Brodeur spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Devils. His impressive records, including most career wins, are a testament to his skill and consistency.
Scott Stevens: Known for his bone-crushing hits and physical play, Scott Stevens was the heart and soul of the Devils' defense during their championship years. He also served as the team's captain.
Patrik Elias: Patrik Elias is the franchise's all-time leading scorer and a key contributor during the Devils' successful years. His offensive prowess and leadership made him a fan favorite.
Controversy and Innovation
The Trap: The Devils gained notoriety for their use of the neutral zone trap, a defensive strategy that stifled opponents' offenses. While effective, it was often criticized for slowing down the pace of the game.
Salary Cap Troubles: In the early 2000s, the Devils faced salary cap issues that led to the departure of some key players. Despite these challenges, they remained competitive.
Post-Championship Era
Move to Newark: In 2007, the Devils moved to the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, leaving behind their longtime home at the Continental Airlines Arena.
Recent Years: The Devils have faced a period of rebuilding and roster changes in recent years. While they haven't captured another Stanley Cup, they remain a team with potential and promise.
FAQs About the New Jersey Devils
Why are they called the Devils?
The team is named after the Jersey Devil, a mythical creature from New Jersey folklore. The name was chosen in a fan contest in 1982 when the franchise relocated to New Jersey.
Who is the most iconic Devil in franchise history?
Martin Brodeur is often considered the most iconic Devil. His goaltending records and championship victories are unmatched.
What is the state of the team today?
The Devils are in a rebuilding phase, focusing on developing young talent and building for the future. The team's fortunes can change rapidly in the competitive NHL.
The New Jersey Devils, once a struggling expansion team, evolved into a powerhouse during the late 1990s and early 2000s, capturing the hearts of their fans and earning respect throughout the league. While they may not currently dominate the NHL landscape, the Devils' legacy is a testament to the transformative power of dedicated ownership, strong leadership, and a commitment to excellence. As they continue their journey in the NHL, the Devils remain a captivating chapter in the rich tapestry of professional hockey.
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Please write article unique and informative about 39-28-9: House Of Horrors (now with pictures!) with minimum 1000 words and the Faq's
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Title: 39-28-9: A Journey through the House of Horrors - Now with Pictures!
Introduction
For hockey fans, the journey through an NHL season is filled with excitement, anticipation, and the occasional feeling of dread. As a fan of the New Jersey Devils, the 2009-2010 NHL season was no different. In this article, we will delve into the memorable moments, the challenges faced, and the rollercoaster ride of emotions that defined the Devils' 2009-2010 season, captured through a unique lens - pictures.
A Promising Start
The 2009-2010 season began with high hopes. The Devils, led by head coach Jacques Lemaire and the legendary Martin Brodeur between the pipes, were determined to make their mark once again. As the season kicked off, fans filled the Prudential Center with optimism.
Image 1: Devils Fans Filled with Optimism
Record-Breaking Milestone
One of the most memorable moments early in the season was Martin Brodeur's historic achievement. On December 21, 2009, Brodeur became the NHL's all-time leader in regular-season wins for a goaltender, surpassing Patrick Roy's record.
Image 2: Martin Brodeur's Record-Breaking Moment
A Midseason Slump
Despite the early successes, the Devils hit a midseason slump that left fans concerned. The team struggled to maintain consistency, leading to a string of losses that raised questions about their playoff aspirations.
Image 3: Frustration Amidst the Slump
Trade Deadline Drama
The trade deadline in any NHL season can bring excitement and uncertainty. In 2010, the Devils made a significant move by acquiring Ilya Kovalchuk, a star forward, from the Atlanta Thrashers. The move was aimed at bolstering the team's offensive firepower.
Image 4: Kovalchuk Joins the Devils
Playoff Push and Redemption
As the regular season neared its end, the Devils found their stride. The team, buoyed by the addition of Kovalchuk, embarked on a winning streak that revitalized their playoff hopes. Fans once again filled the arena with enthusiasm.
Image 5: Fans Celebrate Playoff Hope
A Disappointing End
Despite their late-season surge, the Devils' playoff run was short-lived. They were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Philadelphia Flyers, marking the end of a rollercoaster season.
Image 6: Defeat in the Playoffs
FAQs About the 2009-2010 Devils Season
What went wrong during the midseason slump?
The midseason slump was attributed to a combination of factors, including injuries to key players and a lack of consistent scoring. Defensive lapses also played a role.
What impact did the acquisition of Ilya Kovalchuk have?
Kovalchuk's arrival brought a dynamic offensive presence to the team, but it also raised questions about chemistry and team dynamics. While he contributed significantly, it wasn't enough to secure a deep playoff run.
How did fans react to the season's ups and downs?
Devils fans remained passionate throughout the season, showing unwavering support even during challenging times. The Prudential Center remained a lively and spirited arena.
Conclusion
The 2009-2010 NHL season for the New Jersey Devils was a whirlwind of emotions, from the jubilation of Martin Brodeur's historic milestone to the disappointment of a first-round playoff exit. Through the lens of pictures, we've captured the essence of that season - the highs, the lows, and the unwavering dedication of Devils fans. It serves as a reminder that in the world of professional hockey, every season is a unique journey with its own set of challenges and triumphs, and for the Devils faithful, it was a season they will never forget.
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Please write article unique and informative about 39-27-9: True Colours Shine Through with minimum 1000 words and the Faq's
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Title: 39-27-9: True Colors Shine Through - A Season of Resilience
Introduction
The 2009-2010 NHL season was a rollercoaster ride for the New York Rangers, filled with ups and downs, injuries, and moments of brilliance. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the Rangers' journey that season, exploring their resilience and highlighting the key moments that defined their campaign.
A Slow Start
The Rangers began the season with high expectations but struggled out of the gate. Injuries to key players and difficulty finding consistency in their play left them with a losing record early on. Fans were left wondering if this would be a season to forget.
Image 1: Rangers Struggling Early
Lundqvist's Brilliance
Throughout the season, one constant for the Rangers was the outstanding play of their star goaltender, Henrik Lundqvist. "King Henrik" displayed his brilliance night after night, keeping the team in many games they had no business winning.
Image 2: Henrik Lundqvist's Heroics
Injury Woes
Injuries plagued the Rangers throughout the season. Key players like Marian Gaborik, Chris Drury, and Ryan Callahan missed significant time, putting additional pressure on the team's depth players. Despite the setbacks, the Rangers continued to fight.
Image 3: Rangers Battling Through Injuries
A Late-Season Surge
As the season progressed, the Rangers found their stride. A late-season surge led by Gaborik's scoring prowess and Lundqvist's remarkable goaltending propelled them into playoff contention. Fans began to believe that a postseason run was possible.
Image 4: Gaborik Leads the Charge
Playoff Push
The Rangers' playoff push came down to the wire. In a must-win situation on the final day of the regular season, they faced the Philadelphia Flyers. The tension in Madison Square Garden was palpable as the team fought for their postseason lives.
Image 5: Tension in the Final Game
FAQs About the 2009-2010 Rangers Season
What was the turning point in the Rangers' season?
The turning point was the late-season surge, fueled by Marian Gaborik's goal-scoring and Henrik Lundqvist's stellar goaltending. This surge propelled them back into playoff contention.
How did the Rangers cope with injuries to key players?
The Rangers relied on their depth and the leadership of players like Brandon Dubinsky and Vinny Prospal to fill the gaps left by injured stars. It was a true team effort.
Did the Rangers make the playoffs that season?
Yes, the Rangers secured a playoff spot with their dramatic win over the Flyers on the final day of the regular season. It was a testament to their resilience.
Conclusion
The 2009-2010 NHL season was a test of resilience for the New York Rangers. Despite a slow start and numerous injuries to key players, they managed to claw their way back into playoff contention. The season showcased the brilliance of Henrik Lundqvist and the never-give-up attitude that defines the Rangers' identity.
It serves as a reminder that in hockey, as in life, setbacks are a part of the journey. What matters most is how a team responds to adversity, and the Rangers' response that season was nothing short of inspiring. It was a season when their true colors shone through, and fans will forever remember the heart and determination displayed by the Blueshirts.
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