Wednesday, December 14, 2011

17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over


When the most emotional moment of the night is a bad call by the referee that didn't result in a fight or a goal, you know that it was a boring affair. The Rangers lost 1-0 to the Dallas Stars in a snoozer at the Garden on Tuesday night, a game that had about as much emotion as a cardboard box.

After exploding for six against the Panthers the Blueshirts couldn't even manage a decent shot - much less a goal - against an AHL goaltender. Somehow the official scorer credited Bachman with 34 saves but it is unclear which game he was watching. Having watched the game in person and again on television I still can't recall a single stop that the kid collected. What a dreadfully dull display.

Just a few Late Hits:

*That bad call by Ian Walsh was stupefying. Bachman did his best impression of a NFL kicker to jump into contact to draw a penalty. Walsh's partner was Don Van Massenhoven - you'd expect him to make an inexplicable call of two but this one was all Walsh, who was just feet away when Bachman raced out of his crease to play the puck and initiate contact with one of his own teammates and Young Carl. Thankfully Hank and Prust had little problem killing off the ensuing Dallas power play.

*Del Zaster quarterbacked a Ranger power play that went 0-4 and had nary an actual opportunity to score. Step, Richard$, Cally and Arty are definitely also culpable but it was Del Zaster who led the team with 6:44 of ice time with the man advantage. They collectively had seven shots in eight minutes of power play time. Atrocious.

*Erik Christensens skated for 9:11, went 1-7 in the faceoff circle, had one shot and no pulse. Sean Avery certainly would have added more excitement to the night, that is for sure.

*Can Brian Boyle play a softer game? He plays like someone half his size.

*May be mistaken but Brandon Prust appeared to fight Jake Dowell just to stay awake. It was a staged bout that featured few good punches and was blissfully over quick. Fights like that, for the lack of justification just fuel the pathetic pacifists like THN's Adam Proteau and the various guys at the New York Times who suddenly have it out for hockey.

*Soft goal given up by Hank with five minutes to go but what can you do? As per always the Rangers gifted the opposition the blueline and collapsed all the way down to the goalmouth, allowing Daley to come in and slide the puck through Lundqvist's five hole. Jeff Woywitka was worthless on the play, but that is no surprise.

*Every time I see Trevor Daley I am reminded of John Vanbiesbrouck's stupidity. What the hell was he thinking?

*Walked out of the arena past Bobby Nystrom and managed not to say anything. The former Islander still looked spry enough to kick my ass anyway.

*For as much of a flatline as this game was, Sheldon Souray's shot nearly induced coronaries around the Garden when it hit Hank. Thought for sure that it broke his collarbone or something but luckily the King shook it off and remained in the game.

*Remember when Brandon Dubinsky was relevant? Seems so long ago ...

*What a lifeless Garden crowd. A friend of the blog warned me tonight to expect more of these with the NHL's realignment next season. The only solution we could come up with was variable pricing but could you imagine Dolan doing that? I can't.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Trevor Daley - one goal.
2-Henrik Lundqvist - 27 saves.
1-Richard Bachman - 34 saves.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Bachman - Showed no intimidation playing in MSG. But, as mentioned above, the building was largely asleep and not intimidating in the least. Still, no softies.
2-Hank - Anyone who can stand in front of a Souray slap shot and survive should be recognized.
1-Daley - He scored a goal! No one else did ...



 17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over - A Closer Look at a Hockey Game



In the world of sports, every game tells a story. Some are tales of triumph, while others are narratives of struggle and resilience. The game with the scoreline "17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over" captured the essence of a challenging and perhaps frustrating moment in the world of hockey. In this article, we'll dissect the context, key moments, and potential lessons from this game, while also addressing frequently asked questions (FAQs) about such games and their implications.

Table of Contents

Setting the Stage: The Context of the Game
Key Moments and Turning Points
Offensive Struggles
Defensive Challenges
Goaltending Dynamics
Team Resilience and Moving Forward
Overcoming Adversity
Strategies for Improvement
Fan Reactions and the Passion for Hockey
FAQs - Understanding Hockey Games and Their Impact
1. Setting the Stage: The Context of the Game

Every game in a hockey season has its own unique context. In the case of "17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over," the scoreline reflects a game that may not have gone as planned for one of the teams involved.

The respective records of the teams—17 wins, 7 losses, and 4 ties—indicate that both were competitive and likely had high expectations for the matchup. Fans eagerly anticipated the game, hoping for an exciting contest.

2. Key Moments and Turning Points

Hockey games are often defined by pivotal moments and turning points that determine the outcome. "17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over" was no exception, with several factors contributing to the final result:

Offensive Struggles: Scoring goals can be a challenge in hockey, particularly when facing a strong defensive opponent. Offensive struggles can stem from a variety of factors, including effective opponent strategies, missed opportunities, or a lack of execution.

Defensive Challenges: Defensive lapses can lead to scoring opportunities for the opposing team. Mistakes in coverage, turnovers, or breakdowns in the defensive zone can be costly.

Goaltending Dynamics: Goaltending is a critical aspect of hockey, and the performance of goaltenders can sway the outcome of a game. A goaltender's ability to make critical saves, particularly in high-pressure situations, can be a deciding factor.

3. Team Resilience and Moving Forward

After a game like "17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over," teams often engage in self-reflection and analysis. They consider how to bounce back and improve their performance in the face of adversity.

Overcoming Adversity: Resilience is a hallmark of successful teams. While losses can be disheartening, they also offer valuable learning opportunities. Teams use setbacks as motivation to improve and develop strategies for success.

Strategies for Improvement: Coaches and players analyze game footage to identify areas for improvement. Tactical adjustments, changes in line combinations, and a focus on specific aspects of the game can lead to better outcomes in future contests.

4. Fan Reactions and the Passion for Hockey

Hockey fans are known for their unwavering passion and support for their teams. In the wake of a game like "17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over," fan reactions can vary widely. Some fans may express frustration or disappointment, while others continue to rally behind their team with optimism.

The passion of hockey fans is evident in their engagement with the sport, from attending games and cheering on their teams to discussing strategies and sharing their perspectives on social media and fan forums.

5. FAQs - Understanding Hockey Games and Their Impact

Let's address some frequently asked questions about hockey games and their implications:

Q1: How do teams recover from a challenging game like "Wake Me Up When It's Over"?

Teams recover by analyzing their performance, making necessary adjustments, and maintaining a positive mindset. They use such games as opportunities to learn and grow.

Q2: Are offensive struggles common in hockey, even for highly skilled teams?

Yes, offensive struggles can affect even the most skilled teams. Effective defensive strategies and the performance of opposing goaltenders can create challenges for scoring goals.

Q3: How do fans continue to support their teams after a tough loss?

Fans continue to support their teams by showing up to games, wearing team merchandise, and engaging in discussions about strategies and improvements. Their unwavering support plays a crucial role in motivating teams.



"17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over" encapsulates the unpredictable and emotional journey of a hockey season. While some games may not end as desired, they serve as chapters in a larger narrative of competition, resilience, and the enduring passion of fans. In the world of hockey, every game is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and come back stronger. It's a reminder that success is often born from challenges, and the journey is as important as the destination.







 17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over - Understanding the Ebb and Flow of Collegiate Hockey



Collegiate hockey is a thrilling and unpredictable sport, where teams experience a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the season. The record 17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over encapsulates the highs and lows that define the journey of collegiate hockey. In this article, we will delve into the nuances of this record, explore the factors that contribute to its significance, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the captivating nature of the sport.

Deciphering the Record: 17-7-4

The record 17-7-4 represents a team's performance in a collegiate hockey season, specifically:

17 wins achieved during the season.
7 losses incurred in games.
4 ties or draws in which the outcome was undecided.
"Wake Me Up When It's Over" suggests a sense of anticipation, perhaps during a challenging stretch of the season. This record serves as a snapshot of a team's journey, capturing moments of triumph and moments of reflection.

The Unpredictable Nature of Collegiate Hockey

Collegiate hockey is renowned for its unpredictability, where the outcome of a game can change in an instant. Several factors contribute to the thrilling and often surprising nature of the sport:

Competitive Balance: Collegiate hockey features a competitive balance, with teams of varying strengths. Upsets are common, and underdog teams can defeat higher-ranked opponents.

Rivalries: Rivalry matchups add an extra layer of intensity and unpredictability. Emotions run high, and the outcome is often uncertain.

Goaltending: Goaltenders play a pivotal role in determining game outcomes. A standout performance from a goaltender can lead to victory, while a shaky one can result in defeat.

Special Teams: Power plays and penalty kills can sway the momentum of a game. Effective special teams play is crucial for success.

Injuries and Lineup Changes: Injuries can disrupt a team's roster and force adjustments in lineups, which can affect performance.

FAQs About Collegiate Hockey Records

What is the significance of ties or draws in collegiate hockey?
Ties or draws, while less common in modern collegiate hockey due to overtime and shootout rules, still contribute to a team's overall record and can impact playoff standings.

How do teams rebound from challenging stretches during the season?
Teams analyze their performance, identify areas for improvement, and work on strategies to bounce back in upcoming games. Difficult stretches serve as learning opportunities.

Is collegiate hockey similar to professional hockey in terms of competitiveness?
Collegiate hockey is highly competitive and serves as a pathway to professional leagues, including the NHL. The competitive balance makes each game exciting and unpredictable.

What role do statistics play in evaluating collegiate hockey teams?
Statistics such as goals scored, goals against, power play efficiency, and penalty kill effectiveness are important indicators of a team's performance and can inform coaching decisions.

How does the NCAA tournament work in collegiate hockey?
The NCAA tournament is a single-elimination playoff format involving the top collegiate hockey teams. It culminates in the Frozen Four, where a national champion is crowned.



The record 17-7-4: Wake Me Up When It's Over epitomizes the exhilarating and unpredictable nature of collegiate hockey. It is a testament to the passion, determination, and resilience of players, coaches, and fans who navigate the twists and turns of the sport. Collegiate hockey is a journey filled with highs and lows, but it is the unwavering support and dedication of all involved that make each season a memorable and rewarding experience.

As teams continue to pursue excellence on the ice, they contribute to the rich tapestry of collegiate hockey, where every record tells a story of perseverance, camaraderie, and the pursuit of victory.




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