Peepin' Foes Preview Edition: Washington Capitals

Well, well, well. Washington. Last but not least. My pal Poti. Yep. PotiPotiPotiPoti. PeanutButtaPotiTime. The man who "has the grit the team needs" was just rewarded with a two-year contract extension worth nearly three mil per season.

Yeah.

Tom Frickin' Poti.

Oh, and they have that Ovechkin guy too.

Familiar Foes: Captain Caveman is joined by Nick Backstrom, Alex Semin and Mike Green in Washington's packed arsenal of talent. Former Ranger Mike Knuble is still working in the trenches and the rest of DC's second stringers remain unchanged in Brooks Laich, Eric Fehr and Tomas Fleischmann. It is expected that Semyon Varlamov will take over the starting goaltender position as the Caps let Three-Or-More walk. If you've forgotten, Varlamov is the kid who helped Washington bounce back and beat us in Tortorella's Folly (the first round of the playoffs two years back).

N00bz: Seeing as Washington blew a 3-1 series lead to Montreal due to the red-hot goaltending of Halak, the Caps went out and added a goon in DJ King. Yeah, that makes sense. Whatever. In that playoff series All-American Hero John Carlson turned a lot of heads and is expected to make the defense full time, as should another youngster - Karl Alzner.

Last Year: Thursday, October 8th 4-3 Ranger win; Tuesday, November 17th 4-2 Capital win; Thursday, February 4th 6-5 Capital win; and Saturday, March 6th 2-0 Capital win.

This Year: Tuesday, November 9th at MSG; Sunday, December 12th at MSG; Monday, January 24th in DC; and Friday, February 25th in DC.

What They Mean To Blue: POOOOTTTTTIIIIIIIII. And a bunch of losses. All four games last season were interesting affairs that were quite close but Washington rightly took three of four last season. They could very well replicate that feat again this season as long as Varly isn't atrocious. And if he is, his two backups Michal Neuvirth and Braden Holtby both have big NHL futures ahead of them.

 Peepin' Foes Preview Edition: Washington Capitals

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The Washington Capitals, a perennial powerhouse in the NHL's Metropolitan Division, have consistently posed a significant challenge for the New York Rangers. With a roster full of star power, a history of playoff success, and an intense rivalry, matchups against the Capitals are always must-see events. In this "Peepin' Foes Preview Edition," we'll take a deep dive into what makes the Washington Capitals a formidable adversary and what Rangers fans can expect in the upcoming clashes.

Team Overview:

The Washington Capitals, founded in 1974, are one of the league's older franchises. They've enjoyed sustained success in recent years, thanks in large part to the presence of Alexander Ovechkin, one of the greatest goal scorers in NHL history. The team's identity is built around a mix of high-scoring offense, solid defense, and elite goaltending.

Key Players:

Alexander Ovechkin: "The Great Eight" is the face of the franchise. Ovechkin is known for his incredible shot and goal-scoring ability. He consistently leads the league in goals, earning numerous Rocket Richard Trophies.

Nicklas Backstrom: A longtime Capital, Backstrom is Ovechkin's setup man. His playmaking ability and on-ice vision make him a threat every time he touches the puck.

John Carlson: One of the league's top offensive defensemen, Carlson quarterback's Washington's power play and contributes significantly in both ends of the ice.

Braden Holtby (Former): Holtby, a key part of the Capitals' 2018 Stanley Cup run, has since departed. But Ilya Samsonov is ready to take the reins in the crease.

Rivalry: Rangers vs. Capitals

The Rangers-Capitals rivalry is rooted in history, with numerous playoff meetings intensifying the feud. One of the most iconic moments came in the 2015 playoffs when the Rangers' Derek Stepan scored the series-winning goal in overtime, breaking the hearts of Capitals fans.

These matchups are known for their physicality, dramatic overtime goals, and star power on both sides. The rivalry continues to be a highlight of the NHL season, with each game carrying playoff-like intensity.

What to Watch For:

Offensive Firepower: The Capitals' offense, led by Ovechkin, can strike at any moment. Rangers' defensemen must be vigilant, especially on the penalty kill.

Physical Play: Expect big hits and hard-nosed hockey. Rivalries like this one often lead to scrums and confrontations after the whistle.

Goaltending Duel: If Igor Shesterkin is in net for the Rangers and Ilya Samsonov for the Capitals, it's a battle of young Russian goaltending talents.

Special Teams: Both teams boast potent power plays. Special teams could play a crucial role in the outcome of games.

Recent History:

In recent seasons, the Capitals have been a formidable opponent for the Rangers. With consistent playoff appearances and a Stanley Cup win in 2018, they have been a measuring stick for the Blueshirts. However, the Rangers have had their moments, including critical regular-season victories.

Fan Engagement:

Rangers fans, along with fans of the Capitals, can engage with this "Peepin' Foes Preview Edition" in various ways:

Share Your Rivalry Stories: Share your favorite moments, goals, or memories from Rangers-Capitals matchups.

Predict the Outcomes: Engage in discussions about how you think the games will play out and who the key contributors will be.

Key Matchups: Analyze and debate the key head-to-head matchups on the ice.

Historical Trivia: Test your knowledge with historical trivia questions about the rivalry.

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As the Rangers prepare to face off against the Washington Capitals, there's a sense of excitement and anticipation. These matchups are more than just games; they're battles filled with history, rivalries, and a passion for hockey. In the "Peepin' Foes Preview Edition," we've explored what makes the Capitals a formidable adversary and what fans can look forward to in the upcoming clashes. Get ready for another chapter in the thrilling Rangers vs. Capitals saga!

11-9-1: My Kingdom For Some Shots

You kind of expected the Washington Capitals to defeat the New York Rangers tonight, what with Ovechkin coming back and the Rangers being so bad, but as they are apt to do, the Blueshirts tempted and teased before ultimately falling apart. Washington won 4-2 as Ovie made a triumphant return to the ice.

As good as he is - and he clearly didn't lose a step during his absence - the Rangers still could have won before a (surprise, surprise) Wade Redden defensive lapse allowed Matt Bradley to score what would be the game-winner. You can talk about scoring woes and reluctance to shoot as much as you want (and I will, don't worry) but sloppy defense lost the game.

And Wade had made a great defensive stop in the second period too ... what a shame. For eight million bucks this season, you would think we could at least get Tom Poti-esque level of play or even something on the degree of Igor Ulanov ineptitude but not Marek Malik-ish embarrassment. What a scale of suckitude we can build from our blueline this century. It's shameful. Everyone knows the cliche, defense wins championships and this franchise isn't winning anything with Redden - or Rozsival for that matter - wearing the colours.

Just got into the house and read the AP wire report over at Yahoo where John Tortorella had the nerve to blame the Bradley goal on Matt Gilroy not being able to catch up to Bradley from behind? Are you kidding me? What does Redden have to do to get a lashing? Sleep with Sather's wife? Keep blaming the kids Torts, they will still be here when you get rightfully fired at the end of the year.

*Discussing the match with Mr. X from the Blue Seats after the game, we agreed that the Rangers played a good 20 minutes - the first 10 and the last 10 before the Bradley goal. They skated hard, worked the puck to the net and battled for position in the offensive zone. It was just the over 40 minutes where they looked lost, bored and all-around awful.

*The Blueshirts were stuck on 11 shots for what seemed like an hour, even though there was a post hit inside that span of time. They let the Caps fill the middle of the ice and remained out on the perimeter, looking an awful lot like the Renney Rangers.

*Speaking of them, another friend of the blog (Eric) made the good call that Perry Pearn must have been back in charge of the power play. They made one pass too many too many times, allowing the Caps to close all of the lanes. Semyon Varlamov rarely had to make a good save while Hank was under siege much of the evening.

*You can talk about the penalty troubles - and Ovechkin's return on a national tv night certainly helps lend to a conspiracy theory - but the simple fact was that the Rangers didn't play smart hockey. Rozsival shouldn't be chasing a player around the defensive zone, because he can't keep up and will do something dumb.

*At the same time, an allowance should be made for the Sean Avery Rules as Aves was called for a soft penalty and spent half of his night getting knocked around. He still drew a penalty but if the Rangers pulled half of what the Caps did to, say, Ovie then there would have been several more penalties called.

*Avery played his most spirited match since the playoff benching but it still didn't get him anywhere. He would draw the defense, of course, but linemates never got the puck to the net and Avery never got through the coverage to slide into the slot and get one of his inyourface! goals. At least we saw Cally step up and defend Avery in a scrum in the first period; it is about time these guys stood up for each other.

*Lord knows Donald Brashear won't be the one to do it. The Neanderthal was useless as always and Jon Tortorella inexplicably put him out on the ice right after Washington scored to tie the game. Brash seems to get on the ice, circle a few times while watching the play before remembering where the bench is and taking his rightful seat upon it. It was comical to see him watching Voros fight Bradley, then go over to the penalty box when Voros sat down. What was the conversation like? 'Hey Aaron, you fight good.' 'Yeah Donald, I didn't stop too many punches with my face this time!' 'Me like fights.' 'I don't, but at least I can say I did something tonight - change things up a little.' 'You make him bleed. Blood gooooood. Fire baaaaaad.'

*Following a Frankenstein reference, where was Arty Anisimov? The kid has the amazing capacity to be invisible despite being over six feet tall. It is remarkable. You remember when he scored those two goals? Me too, too bad they were in preseason.

*To take a break from the badmouthing, Marian Gaborik is good. Very, very good. Unfortunately, as in Minnesota, he can score but he can't carry a team singlehandedly to victory. Damn shame right there, because we need him to.

*Let's get back to the bashing because it is so easy and so appropriate after yet another home loss. Ales Kotalik? Thanks for nothing tonight. Cally and Chris Higgins couldn't score either but at least they battled hard out on the ice. And, honestly, I think the Higgins-at-center experiment is working well as he has stepped up his game and playing smarter hockey. Let Drury stay away as long as he has to ... longer even so we can get his salary off the cap and get someone who can score onto the team.

*I like P.A. Parenteau and think he put in a good effort but, correct me if I'm wrong, he didn't take a single shot all night. For an AHL scoring ace, you would think he would understand that you have to shoot to score.

*Can you imagine what the final result would have been if Mike Knuble and/or Alex Semin had played? I was so thankful to see Semin scratched and figured that would be a big boost for the Blueshirts. I was wrong.

*But on that same note, when will Brooks Laich get some recognition outside of Washington? This nobody is racking up the points this year and making the big Caps injuries not hurt nearly as much as they should. Watching him just enhances the hurt that tis he Rangers secondary scoring or lack thereof.

*The Garden brass made the massive mistake of going to Dancing Grandma during the regular Dancing Larry television timeout. Not only did she get booed and have the fans chant for Larry, but the Caps came out of the break and scored. The next stoppage Larry was allowed to do his thing but by then it was too late. Redden's disgrace had taken the air out of the building and nothing outside of Gabby completing his hat trick could have put it back.

*Redden and Rozy may be doing their best to disappoint night after night but I still hate you Poti!!!

*PHW Three Stars
3-Matt Bradley - one goal.
2-Marian Gaborik - two goals.
1-Alex Ovechkin - one goal.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Hank - Gabby's two goals were big but Hank held his ground as the Rangers let the Caps come at the crease in waves. Sure he gave up three goals but he gave the team a chance to win the game, something they certainly didn't deserve. Eleven shots in a period and a half against a team with Tom Poti on defense. Pathetic.
2-Ovie - Is there anything he can't do? I love that he is finally getting booed every time he touches the puck, shows his level of stardom.
1-Matt Bradley - As depressing as it was for us Ranger fans, it was just impressive that this guy skated off the ice bleeding after getting his ass kicked in the first period and came back to score the game-winning goal.

My New Fav Photo?

Maybe not tops, but definitely up there:

 My New Fav Photo? - The Art and Impact of Photography

In an era where smartphones have made everyone a potential photographer, the phrase "My New Fav Photo?" encapsulates the excitement and enthusiasm that accompanies the discovery of a captivating image. Photography is a powerful medium that can evoke emotions, tell stories, and capture moments in time. In this article, we will explore the world of photography, its impact on our lives, and address frequently asked questions (FAQs) that shed light on this fascinating art form.

Photography: An Art of Light and Shadow

A Moment in Time

Photography has the unique ability to freeze a moment in time, preserving it for eternity. Whether it's a candid shot of a child's laughter, a breathtaking landscape, or a powerful portrait, photographs are windows into the past.

Visual Storytelling

Photography is a language of its own. It can convey complex narratives, emotions, and experiences without the need for words. A single photograph can tell a story, spark curiosity, or ignite empathy.

The Impact of Photography

Capturing History

Photography has played a crucial role in documenting historical events, from the horrors of war to the triumphs of social movements. Iconic images like "Tank Man" in Tiananmen Square or the raising of the American flag at Iwo Jima have become symbols of historical significance.

Personal Memories

Photographs are cherished keepsakes of personal memories. They help us relive moments with loved ones, celebrate milestones, and remember those who are no longer with us.

Artistic Expression

Photography is a form of artistic expression. Professional photographers, amateur enthusiasts, and even casual smartphone users can create visually stunning images that challenge our perceptions and expand our horizons.

FAQs: Exploring the World of Photography

As photography continues to evolve and shape our world, questions often arise about its techniques, history, and impact. Here are some FAQs that provide insights into the realm of photography:

1. What makes a photograph memorable?

A memorable photograph often combines elements like composition, lighting, emotion, and storytelling. It can capture a unique moment, evoke strong emotions, or showcase exceptional technical skill.

2. How has digital photography changed the art form?

Digital photography has democratized the medium, allowing more people to access and experiment with photography. It has also simplified the editing process and made sharing images easier.

3. What role does photography play in social media and modern communication?

Photography is at the heart of social media and modern communication. Platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook rely heavily on visual content to engage users and convey messages.

4. What are some iconic photographs that have shaped history?

Iconic photographs like "Migrant Mother" by Dorothea Lange, "Afghan Girl" by Steve McCurry, and "The Burning Monk" by Malcolm Browne have left indelible marks on history and our collective consciousness.

5. How can individuals improve their photography skills?

Improving photography skills involves learning the basics of composition, lighting, and camera settings. Practice, experimentation, and studying the work of other photographers are also valuable steps.

Photography is more than just capturing images; it's a powerful medium that can move, inspire, and connect us. "My New Fav Photo?" is a reminder of the ongoing discovery and appreciation of this art form, where each image holds the potential to stir emotions and provoke thought.

In a world saturated with visual stimuli, photography continues to be a medium through which we can share our unique perspectives, document our lives, and create lasting memories. It bridges the gap between the personal and the universal, reminding us of the beauty, complexity, and wonder of the world around us. So, the next time you encounter a photograph that makes you exclaim, "My New Fav Photo?" take a moment to appreciate the artistry and magic of photography.

For Sale

Over at Classicauctions.net:

Matched set of blue and white Vintage-style New York Rangers uniforms worn by talented blueliner (hahahahahahahahahahahaha) Tom Poti during the 2003-04 campaign. The white CCM is tagged in the collar in size 5g and displays the NHL's Vintage program crest on the upper chest. This Set 1 gamer was worn on January 19, 2004 against the Bruins at the Fleet Center and shows decent game wear with a number of black stick marks and some staining on both lower arms. The nearly identical blue example was worn against the Canadiens on January 17th, 2004 and shows light wear with a few marks. Both shirts come with MeiGray inventory tags and matching letters of authenticity detailing the games in which they were worn.

That there are three bids already - putting the price over $300 - troubles me.

 The Business of NHL Teams: Exploring Franchise Sales in Professional Hockey

The world of professional sports is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, where the ownership of teams can change hands as often as the players on the ice. This article delves into the intriguing and sometimes complex process of selling an NHL franchise. We explore the factors that drive these sales, the impact on teams and fans, and the frequently asked questions surrounding this aspect of the business.

Section 1: The Factors Driving Franchise Sales

Explain the various reasons why NHL franchise owners might consider selling their teams. These could include financial considerations, changes in ownership structure, or personal motivations.

Section 2: The Sale Process

Describe the steps involved in selling an NHL team, from initial interest to closing the deal. Highlight the key players involved, such as prospective buyers, current ownership, and the NHL itself.

Section 3: Historical Sales in the NHL

Provide examples of notable NHL franchise sales in recent history, including any record-breaking transactions. Analyze the impact of these sales on the league's landscape.

Section 4: The Impact on the Team

Discuss how a change in ownership can affect the day-to-day operations of an NHL franchise. Explore the potential positive and negative consequences for players, coaching staff, and management.

Section 5: The Impact on Fans

Examine the emotional attachment fans have to their teams and how a sale can impact their loyalty. Share stories of fan reactions to past sales, both positive and negative.

Section 6: The NHL's Role

Explain the NHL's role in approving franchise sales, including its criteria and considerations when evaluating potential buyers. Discuss the league's commitment to maintaining the stability and integrity of the sport.

FAQs

1. How much does an NHL franchise typically sell for?

Discuss the wide range of sale prices for NHL teams, with factors such as market size, team success, and arena revenue playing a significant role.

2. Are there restrictions on who can buy an NHL team?

Explain the NHL's vetting process for potential buyers, which includes financial stability and a commitment to the league's values.

3. Can a new owner relocate a franchise to another city?

Discuss the NHL's stance on franchise relocation, emphasizing the league's preference for maintaining teams in their current markets.

The sale of an NHL franchise is a multifaceted process that involves a multitude of stakeholders, from prospective buyers to loyal fans. It's a reminder that, while the game on the ice is the heart and soul of the sport, the business side of professional hockey is equally vital. As fans watch their teams change ownership, they can take solace in the fact that the NHL is committed to ensuring the long-term success and stability of its franchises, preserving the legacy and traditions that make hockey a beloved and enduring sport.