Wisconsin here I come!!

I am very pleased to announce that I will (along with my two best friends, Megan and PiosAvsFan) will be visiting the great state of Wisconsin from November 10-12!! We booked our flight yesterday (thanks JB!!!) and now we are looking for a good hotel to stay in...we've been told that the Doubletree is a good place as it's very close to the Kohl Center...Any help from my Wisconsin readers would be most appreciated!!

I honestly don't think I've ever been more excited about a trip...it's going to be amazing what with spending time with my two favorite people and some good hockey...oh is it November yet??

A Very Sad Day at DU

Yesterday afternoon, we here on the beautiful campus of the University of Denver received the news that Paul Stastny has signed with the Colorado Avalanche and will forgo his remaining two years at DU. Many of my colleagues feel pained and could barely work today. I’ve seen grown men tear up at the thought of the loss. It’s been a very sad day indeed.

The feeling around the nets represents two very different ends of the feelings spectrum…naturally; Avs fans are thrilled to see a signing at long last. They feel hopeful that Stastny will knock everyone’s socks off at training camp and assume his rightful place with the team. There are a few nay-sayers who believe he doesn’t stand a snowflake’s chance in hell of making the team and will spend the next year in Albany with the AHL’s River Rats, but only time will tell…

The DU fans feel quite differently about the situation. They express their best wishes to Paul in the future, but also feel disappointed and shocked, some even betrayed, by his very sudden departure.

Personally, I am always happy for players when they get one step closer to their dreams of playing in the NHL. I only feel saddened for the team to have lost a teammate. I hope that Paul is able to play with the Avalanche in the coming season and that he finds success very soon.

Now we all must look to future of both teams and see the light at the end of this tunnel. The Avalanche was able to save some cap space as Stastny signed an entry level contract that will pay $450,000 should he make the team. They also add greatly to the offensive depth they can pull from throughout the season.

The Pioneers will be able to afford opportunities to other, very talented players throughout this year that will enhance the team for the years to come and make them stronger competitors as a group.

Ask and Ye Shall Receive

One of my most loyal readers (PiosAvsFan I’m talking about you!) asked that Mike Modano’s head be replaced by someone more attractive. So I pulled together a few rather comical looking renditions of that unfortunate picture…


I like to call this Wade Modano. I have yet to extol on my great love for the Senator’s number one d-man on this blog, but I’m sure when the Avs play Ottawa October 19th, I will bore you all with tales of his daring deeds and rakishly good looks…


As I know how PiosAvsFan feels about the one, the only, Marek Svatos, I made Mike Svatos or Marek Modano, whichever you prefer…


Lastly, because he has such great hair, I thought Propecia Joe deserved a good looking body too, rather than that rail thin and non-muscular frame he calls a body…

It's the middle of summer, I'm hot and not motivated...

So, I am obsessed with Hockey Player Hair…mullets, shaved, Mohawks, I love it all. Hockey Player Hair falls into two categories, Good and Evil. It’s a black and white issue really…Let’s start with Evil…


Joe Thornton…what can I say? The bleached blonde might be the issue, or the general shagginess. Hard to say really, but this is evil.


Michael Handzus. Did something die on your head? Is that a wig? I’m not really sure. Definitely evil, however, it looks pretty stellar blowing around while he skates.


Jaromir Jagr. I like to call this do the Jagrlet. It’s part mullet, part Jaromir Jagr genius. He just hasn’t been the same with out. I think he may have lost some of his ability when he cut the Jagrlet. Bring it back!!! Still evil though…


Chris Simon. We actually let this guy suit up in an Avalanche sweater? I’m completely grossed out…


Radek Bonk. As if his name wasn’t bad enough, he has evil hair…this guy just can’t win.


Barry Melrose. This is post hockey playing days, but I couldn’t resist. Not only is he rocking the baby mullet, but I love the obscene facial hair. Just say no…


Mike Modano. The mother of all evil hair. No man should have hair as pretty as Mike Modano. It’s just not right…nice body though… (Ps, I’m not entirely sure that this is actually his body. In fact, I’m pretty certain that his head and the beautiful hair that goes with it, was super-imposed on a hot body…that’s the only plausible explanation)

And moving on to the Good...

Joe Thornton. The previously evil haired Thornton not only got a new start in San Jose, but a new totally hot hair do. All around a great trade for him.


Ryan Smyth. Generally, mullets would go in the evil category (see the Jagrlet) but I just can’t get enough of this one…


Jose Theodore. By far, THE BEST hockey hair around. It’s not pretty like Mike Modano’s but it does add to the general splendor. The propecia is obviously doing him some good. Look at that hair. It’s hot.


I love this model picture of when he played for Djurgardens in Sweden last year. Great looking hair.

Insert Witty Title here...

Well, hockey season is over. No more games...however, there is still the Awards Banquet and the Draft. Not to mention various moves a Free Agents and more college defections. So here are a few words...

NHL:
-the Carolina Hurricanes won the Stanley Cup. I was very disappointed with the play of Edmonton in game 7. I was really pulling for them to win it. Out of the whole Carolina squad, there are only three players that are decent: Cam Ward, Mike Commodore, and Bret Hedican. So congrats to those three! Also, way to go Cam Ward with winning the Conn Smythe. He's like 4 months older than me and he is just amazing....
-Joe Sakic signed a one year contract with the Avalanche worth $5.75 Million. A steal if you ask me. He could definitley get more somewhere else, but he is good enough to stay with the only franchise he has ever played for in the NHL. Thanks Joe!
-The NHL Draft takes place this Saturday June 24th in Vancouver. The Avalanche are set to pick 18th in round one. I think they will be looking for the best available Defensemen as the system is deep with fowards.
-The Awards for the 2005-2006 season will be given out tomorrow June 22nd (which just happens to be my 22nd birthday. sorry, i had to put it out there) and can be seen on OLN at 6pm MST.

DU:
-DU released it 2006-2007 schedule. It looks mostly good for DU, however, the Non-conference teams are weak so the team can't afford to lose to them. As you can see, I have added a countdown to the new season...can't wait...
-DU has added a training camp special from CSTV to its website. I highly suggest checking it out. My good friend PiosAvsFan was kind enough to let me watch it at her house as she subcribes to CSTV so I know it's really great.

Various:
-Avalanche goalie and all around hottie Jose Theodore was seen "canoodling" with Paris Hilton at a club in Toronto after the Much Music Awards last weekend. Now, I'm a little confused. Last I heard, he and girlfriend Stephanie Cloutier were basking in the glow of parenthood and love...Now, while my beloved Propecia Joe and that Hitlon girl were seen going in to her hotel at the end of the evening, I don't think he slept with her...My best friend's response to that was priceless "Yeah Catie, cuz hot guys hang out with Paris Hitlon for her intellect..." I'll throw in a picture so you can decide for yourself...

The Evolution of Chris Pronger

In honor of the Oiler's amazing OT win over the Carolina hurricanes Wednesday night, rather than write a boring piece on how amazing Chris Pronger and Fernando Pisani are, I thought I would instead focus on one of my favorite topics...Hair. As a few of my loyal readers (and friends) know, I am rather obsessed with hair...Today, I'd like to talk about Chris Pronger and his hair...

Probably his first NHL team picture. It is just okay...not great not terrible. 6 out of 10.

This pic was from way back in the day when Chris played for the Hartford Whalers (who ps are now the Carolina Hurricanes, small world). This is the evil child of the 50's buzz cut...2 out of 10.

I'm not sure where this pic comes from, most likely a team pic. But the point is, this is the absolute WORST do Prongs has ever sported! Whoever told him this look good, should be shot immediately....Absolutely heinous, 1 out of 10...

This is a picture of Chris, his brother Sean (who is definitely not as talented as his famous brother) and a fan while Chris was playing for St. Louis. I'm going to have to give this do (which is pretty close to his present day coif)a 9 out of 10 as this is probably his best look...

The lighting takes away from this pic. It looks like Angels are lighting Chris' way though doesn't it? I give this a 5 out of 10 as it's not terribly flattering...

I love this coif. Probably the best he has ever had! It's the perfect length for him...totally hot. 10 out of 10!

This is a picture from one of his many All-Star game appearances. I give it a 8 out of 10. I like the general style, but it's a bit too long.

Chris' current team picture. 8 out of 10 go to this one, but only because the picture reminds me of Beaker from the Muppets...I think they may have been separated at birth!

All the news that's fit to print (and some that's probably not...)

I’m afraid I have been neglecting my blogging duties as of late and for that I am sorry….

College Hockey News:
-DU has named their new Assistant Coach as former Ferris State assistant coach Derek Lalonde. He will have many of the same responsiblilites that Seth Appert had. Read about it here
-Incoming DU recruit Rhett Rakhshani was invited to the 2006 National Junior Evaluation Camp for the USA. He spent last year with the NTDP Under-18 team that won the gold medal at the IIHF under-18 Championships. Read about it here
-Colorado College Sophmore Chad Rau and incoming recruit Bill Sweatt were also selected for the Evaluation Camp. To see the full list of those invited click here
-Matt Carle was named the USA Hockey College Player of the Year. I thought he had won every award possible, but I was wrong. Read about it here

Pro Hockey News:
-The Colorado Avalanche named their new GM, Francois Giguere, former assistant GM for the Dallas Stars, will follow in the footsteps of Pierre Lacroix. Read about it here
-The Avs have acquired the rights to Michael Vernance, a former teammate of Wojtek Wolski. I think he will be a good fit with the other prospects the Avs have coming through the pipeline, like Paul Stastny and TJ Hensick. Read about it here
-The Carolina Hurricanes lead the Stanley Cup Finals 3 games to 1 against the Edmonton Oilers. The series heads back to Raleigh on Wednesday June 14, for game 5 where the Canes will have the opportunity to win the Stanley Cup for the first time in franchise history.

Other News:
-I am just too excited that I can’t not write about this…today, I secured my 2006-2007 season tickets to the DU Pioneers!! I will have the same seats as last year, but I might upgrade if possible through the select-a-seat process. I am so happy that I was able to get season tickets for next season as I was worried I might not be able to afford them. I am looking for ward to the 23 home games.
-A very good friend of mine, known throughout the internet hockey world as PiosAvsFan, and I are thinking about traveling to a couple of away games. We would really like to go to (in order): North Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Any helpful hints in making these trips as fun and cost effective as possible would be greatly appreciated!

A blown Lead, a heartbreaking end, and they can’t catch a break …

-The Edmonton Oilers dominated the first two periods of the Stanley Cup finals. They had a 3-1 lead on goals from Pisani, Pronger (one of the sweetest penalty shots I have EVER seen!), and Moreau going in to the third period of game one and completely blew it! In the third period, Roloson allowed an even strength, a power play and a short handed goal to give the Hurricanes a 4-3 lead. Ales Hemsky tied it up with about 8 minutes left in the game, but then disaster struck.
-Carolina's Andrew Ladd carried the puck into the Edmonton zone, cut across in the front of the net and was met there by Bergeron, who unloaded a big hit from behind that drove Ladd into Roloson and knocked the net off its moorings. The goalie remained on the ice for several minutes, then skated slowly to the locker room with an injured right knee.
-Ty Conklin, who played on 18 games during the regular season, took over for the injured Roloson. The extent of Roloson’s injury was at that time unknown.
-The back breaker for Edmonton came on a goalie miscue with 37 seconds left in the game. Conklin went behind the net to play the puck, Captain Jason Smith came up behind him to take a pass and Rod Brind’Amour came from the front to apply pressure. However, Conklin held the puck too long, Smith was too close behind Conklin to accept the pass, and Brind’Amour was in perfect position to grab the puck that Smith missed and bury it in the essentially empty net as Conklin was still behind the net. Conklin got a lot of bad press for this play, but everything would have worked out okay if Smith hadn’t been right on top of him and if the defensemen had done their job and kept Brind’Amour from getting behind the net like that.
-Carolina won 5-4 to take the series lead at 1-0.
-After the game, Coach Craig MacTavish straight up said Roloson was done for the rest of the series. I think this is a truly heartbreaking end to what had turned out to be a great trade for Roloson, he had finally found a team that believed in him and he, along with the Oilers had a great chance of winning the Stanley Cup.
-In game two of the series, Edmonton couldn’t catch a break. They put puck after puck on net and couldn’t get past Cam Ward, who is admittedly playing absolutely amazingly! The Hurricanes and Ward earned a shutout victory of 5-0 over Edmonton to take the series lead at 2-0.
-Jussi Markkanen was the man in net for Edmonton. He played an okay game, but obviously wasn’t able to steal the game for the Oilers.
-What really killed the Oilers in game two was the amount of penalties they took. Three of the five goals allowed occurred on Carolina Power Plays. Edmonton took 11 penalties, 1 in the first period, 4 in the second and 6 in the third. There is no way they are going to generate the offense they need if they are busy trying to kill penalties.
-Edmonton also needs to convert on their power play chances. They had 7 chances on the man advantage and couldn’t capitalize on one.
-An interesting twist to the series is the accusations that Rod Brind’Amour, Carolina’s Captain and the league's top face-off man this season, is cheating on face-offs. TSN’s Bob McKensie has a wonderful recap of the situation: Oilers centre Shawn Horcoff wasn't shy about saying that at all. Brind'Amour fared better than 80 percent on the draw, compared to about 30 percent for Horcoff. The Oilers argue this was made worse by the fact that Brind'Amour's a veteran who gets benefits from the linesmen. Horcoff, who had a running battle all night with the linesmen and referees, said that Brind'Amour did get tossed out of the circle on a few occasions. But it was only because they complained so much that the referees started making the calls instead of the linesmen. Horcoff had a real nasty exchange with one of the linesmen in Game 1, and some video will be put together for the NHL and its officials on what they believe to be Brind'Amour's 'cheating.' The Oilers' argument will be that he does not line up straight at the circle and comes in on an angle. They'll also point out that he benefits from putting his stick down and lifting it up again.

Dora Strikes again...

After mentioning that the Dora the Explorer show could interfere with the Stanley Cup Finals, I found the Instigator by Charlie Teljuer on CBC Sports. Every week he pens a cartoon that usually pokes fun at an NHL happening. Click here to see Charlie's amazing work...

Carolina wins the East...

Buffalo/Carolina
-Despite a strong game by the depleted (and mostly rookie) d-corps, Buffalo lost game 7 of the Western Conference Finals.
-After leading 1-0 after the first period on a fluky goal by the fro-sporting, robe wearing, North Dakota product Mike Commodore, the Canes allowed two goals in the second period; The first, another fluky goal by Doug Janik, the second a beautifully screened shot by Jochen Hecht.
-The go-ahead goal for Carolina came from none other than captain Rod Brind’Amour. After a delay-of-game penalty taken by one of the two healthy veteran defensemen for Buffalo, Brian Campbell, when he cleared the puck and accidentally hit it over the glass, Brind’Amour jumped on a loose puck that seemed to sit in front of Ryan Miller for an eternity and took it top shelf to score the game winner.
-Buffalo should be proud of how far they got considering how desperate their situation on defense had become. They fought hard throughout the series and pushed Carolina to the brink.
-Carolina now faces the much rested Edmonton Oilers.

Stanley Cup Final Schedule (all times are EST)

Edmonton (41-28-13, 95 pts) vs.
Carolina (52-22-8, 112 pts)

Monday, June 5, 8:00 p.m. Edmonton at Carolina, OLN, CBC, RDS
Wednesday, June 7, 8:00 p.m. Edmonton at Carolina, OLN, CBC, RDS
Saturday, June 10, 8:00 p.m. Carolina at Edmonton, NBC, CBC, RDS
Monday, June 12, 8:00 p.m. Carolina at Edmonton, NBC, CBC, RDS
Wednesday, June 14, 8:00 p.m. Edmonton at Carolina, NBC, CBC, RDS
Saturday, June 17, 8:00 p.m. Carolina at Edmonton, NBC, CBC, RDS
Monday, June 19, 8:00 p.m. Edmonton at Carolina, NBC, CBC, RDS

A thriller, an Exodus, and Dora the Explorer?

Buffalo/Carolina
-The Buffalo Sabres staved off elimination on Tuesday night with an inspiring 2-1 OT win over the Carolina Hurricanes, forcing a game 7 which takes place tonight in Raleigh. JP Dumont tallied for the Sabres 4:56 into the first period, beating Rookie Cam Ward on a rebound from Daniel Briere.
-Ryan Miller, Buffalo’s phenomenal rookie goal tender looked solid all night, keeping the score at 1-0 for Buffalo until the 16:07 mark of the third period when he was beat from the left circle by Carolina Defenseman (and husband to Kristy Yamaguchi) Bret Hedican.
-Cam Ward turned in another solid performance and to his credit, the game winning goal was fluky. The goal came on a Buffalo power play after Doug Weight got 2 minutes for Boarding. From NHL.com: After failing to generate much in the first 1:40 of the power play, the Sabres had one final rush and got a break when Carolina's Justin Williams stumbled inside his own blue line. Buffalo's Derek Roy got to the loose puck and fed Rory Fitzpatrick at the right point, who quickly passed across to Briere at the top of the left circle. Briere patiently waited for an opening before snapping a shot that fluttered in. "It went off my glove and shoulder and kind of popped in the air," Ward said. "I had no idea where it went after it hit me. Unfortunately, it was too late when I looked back."
-It was the complete opposite to what happened in the previous game when JP Dumont was in the box when Cory Stillman scored the game winning goal in OT.
-This series has been anything but boring. Even though there were only 3 goals scored in the game, it was end-to-end action throughout and both goalies played spectacularly!
-The series ends tonight in the RBC Center at 5:30 MST and can be seen on OLN.

In Edmonton news:
-The Oilers have left Edmonton to both acclimate themselves to the east coast (time zone change and warmer weather) and to escape the distractions of Alberta’s capital city.
-They have taken refuge in Greenburgh, NY which houses the practice facility for the New York Rangers.
-The Stanley Cup Finals begin Monday June 5, 2006. In an interesting scheduling conflict reported by CBC Sports: The Oilers' quest of a sixth Stanley Cup title could put them in direct conflict with the Dora the Explorer stage show set for Rexall Place June 17. The NHL, however, has scheduled Game 6 of the final that night should the series go that far. Northlands Park was aware of the potential problem when the NHL released its schedule Tuesday. Northlands Park runs Rexall Place, the arena the Oilers play in. Spokeswoman Bonni Clark said the NHL, Rexall Place and organizers for the Dora show are working to find a solution for all parties involved. This is the second time the Dora stage show has affected the NHL's playoff scheduling. During the second round, the Ottawa Senators were forced delay Game 2 against the Buffalo Sabres because the popular show was scheduled for Scotiabank Place on May 6 and 7. I knew Dora was popular, but honestly, letting it interfere with the Stanley Cup playoffs? I never knew Dora had that much power!

Edmonton Wins the West! Now they just have to wait...

Edmonton/Anaheim
-The Western Conference Final was one of the most boring series’ of hockey I have ever seen. In game 5 it got a little more interesting. On the brink of elimination for the second time in the series, the Anaheim Mighty Ducks put up a fight and scored first, their only tally in the game on a shot from the point by rookie (and I use the term loosely) Francoise Beauchemin with assists from Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne at 7:30 in the first period on the power play. Ethan Moreau of the Oilers scored next at 3:42 in the second period to tie it up. Raffi Torres, who had spent several games out with the flu, scored about 5 minutes later for the game winner. The third period may have been the most exciting period of the whole series.
-The Oilers racked up four penalties in the third period; including a delay of game penalty to veteran Defenseman and penalty killer extraordinaire Chris Pronger at 17:42 of the third after his clearing attempt ricocheted off the glass and into the crowd. It was a very intense end of the period for all fans watching.
-In the end, Edmonton prevailed and is now headed to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time since 1990. But first, they get some much-needed rest while they await the winner of the Carolina/Buffalo series.
-Teemu Selanne’s ego never ceases to amaze me…after losing he had this to say: “I don't think the better team beat us. We beat ourselves.” Oh really? I would say that is pretty hard to comprehend considering the Ducks out shot the Oilers in EVERY game of the series. If the better team didn’t win, I’ll shave my head and move under one of the bridges over the Platte River…

Buffalo/Carolina
-After Peter Laviolette decided Martin Gerber was the go-to guy for the Hurricanes, he changed his mind 1:55 into the second period after Buffalo scored its second goal. The gamble paid off however as the Canes beat the Sabres 4-3 in OT to lead the series 3-2 going back to Buffalo.
-In the press conference Canes captain Rod Brind’Amour said that he felt the game “was one of our worst games of the series.” Amazing considering you won! I realize they need to be hard on themselves, but that comment is completely demeaning to the Sabres, who played amazingly and lost on a freak deflection while Carolina was on a power play in the first OT.
-Fun fact for the day: Carolina’s Eric Staal has seven goals and 13 assists during his 15 game point streak, the NHL's longest in the postseason since Pavel Bure went 16 straight games for Vancouver in 1994. Staal is four short of the record set by New York Islanders forward Bryan Trottier in 1981.
-The series returns to Buffalo Tuesday night at 5:30 MST.

And the Captaincy goes to...

Last Thursday, May 25, Coach George Gwozdecky announced the Captian for the 2006-2007 season. Senior Defensemen Adrian Veideman of Sicamous, British Columbia, will lead the Pioneers in the 2006-2007 campaign. The alternate captains were also announced, Senior JD Corbin, Junior Paul Stastny, and Junior Andrew Thomas were all named as alternate captains. This is the 7th year in a row that a defensemen has been named as Captain. Veideman is the most versatile player on the Pioneer roster as he is capable of playing both defense and forward. Coach Gwozdecky spoke about all the captains in the release.

"Adrian has earned the respect of his teammates on-and-off the ice," Gwozdecky said. "He has played on two NCAA National Championship teams and knows what kind of leadership is necessary for our team to be successful. His selfless play, toughness and willingness to play both offense and defense have been immeasurable."

"J.D. is another in a long line of Colorado natives who have played important leadership roles within the Pioneer hockey program," Gwozdecky said. "He is one of the fastest players in the WCHA and throughout his career has proven to be one of the top penalty killers in college hockey. J.D. is a hard worker who leads by example and we anticipate a strong senior season from him."

"Paul is one of the top forwards in college hockey and one of the most-liked players on the team," Gwozdecky said. "His confidence and personality are contagious and his teammates are ready to follow his lead."

"Andy brings a strong physical presence to our blueline," Gwozdecky said. "He learned a lot from playing alongside Matt Carle for two seasons and we expect him to continue mentoring our young blueliners."

Read the full release here: Veideman to Lead Pioneers as Captain of 2006-07 Hockey Team

Time to play catch-up

Edmonton/Anaheim Game 3
-This game was so boring until the third period. After the last two games ended in 3-1 wins for Edmonton, this game looked to be a similar kind of game. Rookie Toby Petersen, formerly of Colorado College, scored in the first for his first career playoff goal and that stood until the third. Each team scored four goals…not kidding. You should check out the highlights and read the recap (http://www.nhl.com/scores/recaps/323_3_recap.html). It was totally killer. The Oilers now lead the series 3-0 and can put the Ducks away in Edmonton on Thursday.
-I love the way Craig MacTavish says the word Calgary. No seriously, it sounds something like cal-GARY…absolutely hilarious…great coach though.
-Hometown boy Fernando Pisani scored the game-winning goal in this one.
-What I thought were just facial ticks from Dwayne Roloson, turned out to be him talking to himself and the posts…not kidding…he talks to the goal posts, almost constantly. I absolutely love the quirky things that goalies do…
-Randy Carlyle, Anaheim’s Head Coach, might just have the best hair of any NHL coach. I like to call his coif “the Peacock.”

Buffalo/Carolina Game 3
-This series could not be more different from the Edmonton/Anaheim series. It is so fast paced and exciting throughout 60 minutes.
-Daniel Briere has become one of my favorite players. He has style and is a great leader. Though he struggled throughout the season with and abdominal injury, he has definitely found his stride.
-Chris Drury, the other Buffalo captain and former Av, continues to show his worth and the Avalanche fan base just exactly what we lost.
-Rookie goal tender Cam Ward was pulled from the game in favor of veteran Martin Gerber after allowing 4 goals. Gerber played an amazing game for the Hurricanes and didn’t allow any goals.
-Buffalo was able to win this one 4-3 and now leads the series 2-1.

Edmonton/Anaheim Game 4
-Another obnoxiously boring game, with a few surprises.
-Randy “the Peacock” Carlyle decided to start John-Sebastian Giguere in goal rather than rookie phenom Ilya Bryzgalov. This might be the most genius idea of the playoffs and it paid off for the Ducks.
-The Ducks won this one 5-3 with very little trouble from the Oilers, who are suffering from the Flu, or so they say.
-The series moves back to Anaheim, where again the Oilers have the chance to eliminate the Ducks.
-Brett Skinner was a healthy scratch for the third night. Since being called up from the Manitoba Moose on May 19, he has not seen any ice time which is not really surprising at all. But it makes me hopeful that he will see time with the Ducks next season. Why else would they call him up unless they wanted him to get acquainted with the team? I have full faith in Randy Carlyle that he will do well for Skinner.

Buffalo/Carolina Game 4
-In a semi-surprising move, Peter Laviolette started Martin Gerber in goal rather than Cam Ward. Gerber hasn’t played in nearly a month since losing the job to Ward.
-Something I noticed about Gerber is he is so large he just seems to fill the entire net…
-Buffalo had a terribly lackluster performance and didn’t deserve to win this game. They lost 4-0 and the series is now tied at 2 games a piece. They return to Carolina for game 5 tomorrow night.

Presenting the Amazing Roli the Goalie...

It’s Sunday which means homework day. So while I am procrastinating on writing a 25 page research paper (that the minimum by the way) I thought I should post something….

-The Western conference finals kicked off last Friday when Edmonton faced Anaheim at the Arrowhead Pond in California. After nearly being bored to tears for 18 longs minutes in the first period, there was an absolutely amazing goal by Mike Peca. It’s so amazing, you have to see it for yourself…
-This video shows a long bit where the Anaheim coach discusses the short handed goal, then the best part, where Dwayne Roloson celebrates… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BT61SrBmNfQ&search=edmonton%20goal
-Edmonton won the game 3-1 with one shorthanded, one powerplay and one empty net goal. Overall, it seemed that both teams were playing too tentatively. Hopefully tonight’s game will be more exciting.
-The Buffalo Sabres/Carolina Hurricanes game was a complete opposite to the Edmonton Anaheim game, it was exciting end-to-end hockey. The Sabres won 3-2, but towards the end, the Canes played the best hockey of the game. I think this series will definitely go to 7 games and will remain as exciting as the first game.
-Former DU All-America and would be Captain, Brett Skinner was called up to Anaheim from the Manitoba Moose. After being traded at the dealine from Vancouver to Anaheim, Skinner spent the remainder of his season with the Moose who were recently eliminated from the Calder Cup Playoffs of the AHL. Skinner had four goals and 21 assists in 65 games with the Moose in the regular season and four assists in 13 playoff games before they were eliminated. It’s assumed that he will only practice with the team, but it will be interesting to see if he suits up tonight.

Ryan “the Mullet” Smyth Picture of the Day

One step closer to the Edge...

Been terribly busy at work…some quick thoughts for today…

-Unfortunately San Jose is out of the playoffs. They lost on Wednesday 2-0 on Edmonton’s home ice. Great win for Edmonton though and their “Cinderella” story continues. I always found it interesting that the term Cinderella story was applied to sports teams...
-Edmonton faces Anaheim tonight at 7pm MST. I will be rooting for Edmonton. It’s Ryan Smyth’s mullet really that swayed my allegiance. It’s just so beautiful…but also my utter disdain for Teemu Selanne had a big part too. It’s heartening to know that he lost his team while playing the US in the Olympics…
-The Buffalo Sabres and the Carolina Hurricanes meet tomorrow at 12pm MST in the Eastern Conference Finals. I’m gonna have to go with Buffalo on this one. I have already expounded greatly on all the attributes of Ryan Miller. Not to mention former Av Chris Drury is just plain getting it done for Buffalo. I also love Daniel Briere…
-In other news, Matt Carle was named the Male Student-Athlete of the Year at DU. Another nice award for him to wrap up his college career.

Ryan “the Mullet” Smyth Picture of the Day

It's like the Oscars for DU...

At the 50th Annual Hockey Awards Banquet last Saturday, the following awards were presented:

Bill Masterton Memorial Award (MVP): Matt Carle
Keith Magnuson Memorial Award (Best Defensive Player): Matt Carle
Player's Bench "Star of the Year" Award: Gabe Gauthier
Dr. Ralph Verploeg Award as Most Inspirational Player: Gabe Gauthier
Bob Martin Award for Community Service: Gabe Gauthier
Barry Sharp Memorial Award (Rookie of the Year): Chris Butler
Murray Armstrong Award (Most Improved Player): Ryan Dingle
Dr. Ken Bredesen Award for Sportsmanship: J.D. Corbin
Dr. Art Mason Award as Denver's Top Student-Athletes: J.D. Corbin and Danny King
Leading Scorer Award: Paul Stastny

Also, Dr. Nancy Sampson recognized DU's 12 All-WCHA Academic honorees, as all earned a 3.0 GPA or better this season.
Zach Blom
Matt Carle
Steven Cook
J.D. Corbin
Glenn Fisher
Ryan Helgason
Jon James
Danny King
Brock McMorris,
Ted O'Leary
Paul Stastny
Andrew Thomas

In addition, Blom, Cook, Corbin, King, McMorris and O'Leary were recognized for winning WCHA Scholar-Athlete Awards for GPA's above 3.5.

Another one bites the dust...

Uugghh…I am almost too depressed to write. Yet here I sit in my office, listening to Anna Nalick and the sound of my boss droning on and on about meaningless nothings. Thoughts for today…


-I still can’t get over the sweetest mullet on the planet, way to go Ryan Smyth. It haunts my dreams. I almost want to root for it, but my allegiance to Matt Carle, one of my all-time favorite former DU stars, wins out. I really hope that San Jose can pull out the win over Edmonton tonight. A scary thought that, as the Oilers seem to be doing so well on home ice.
-In other Ryan Smyth news, he took a nasty hit to the mouth in the second period on a clearing attempt from Chris Pronger. His teammate said it best: "Not that he was pretty before, but he is not going to look good come game-time," said Oilers left-winger Ethan Moreau, who believes Smyth will be stitched up and ready for Game 4 Friday. Smyth lost 3 teeth and made a trip to the dentist yesterday. It’s really gotta suck when your own teammate tries to take you out…I think Pronger was mesmerized by the epic mullet and got distracted. Smyth came back into the game and assisted on the 3rdOT game winning goal. Now that’s what hockey is all about!
-What is going on with Martin Brodeur and the Devils? After their epic 15 game win streak ended, they haven’t put together a decent game. I almost feel sorry for them…almost…
-I think I may have taken for granted that my loyal readers follow the Avalanche, but it is possible that not everyone has heard about the Massacre of ’06. I nearly cried when the Ducks scored that empty net goal last night in their 4-1 win over the Avs. We can’t blame Pierre Turgeon for this one, since he didn’t even play. However, we can blame Patrice Brisebois. But I should be charitable and blame the whole team, as that would probably be closer to the truth. It should be interesting this summer as the Avs have 13 players who will be free agents this summer, most notably, Joe Sakic, Rob Blake, Dan Hinote, Alex Tanguay, Karlis Skrastins, and Marek Svatos.
-How cool would it be if the Western Conference Finals came down to San Jose and Anaheim? It would be amazing! I also think it would be great for hockey in California. In the recent past, some stellar players have come from California, Gabe Gauthier of DU, Brett Sterling of CC (I really didn’t want to, but I have to respect that he is amazing player, just not against DU), Brian Salcido (see previous statement), Robbie Earl (not stellar but well known for his amazing accomplishment of All-American Diving team).
-In the Eastern Conference, I think I am going to have to go with Buffalo. Former Av Chris Drury is having an amazing post season, not to mention Ryan Miller is the future of USA hockey goaltending.

Attack of the hair...

Thoughts on some recent games

-Ryan Smyth of the Edmonton Oilers has the coolest Mullet I have EVER seen!! Watching him during the warm-up was amazing, he’s like a mullet god…His little bangs wisp around in the wind as he skates while his manly mane waves like a flag for white trash around the world! It is truly amazing…props also go to OLN commentator Brian Engblom for his epic mullet; second only to Ryan Smyth’s of course.
-Ryan Miller of the Buffalo Sabres definitely redeemed himself in a 43 save night in Ottawa. Including an amazing save sprawled on his stomach where only his calves’ kept the puck from going into the net…
-After a stellar performance in round 1, Ray Emery of the Ottawa Senators seems to be finally feeling the pressure of the playoffs. While his game was much improved in the last game, he still couldn’t steal the game for the Sens. It doesn’t help that Ryan Miller seems to have found his stride.
-Patrick Marleau might just be the most underrated player in the NHL. As Jonathan Cheechoo and Joe Thornton struggle to find a way to score while being defended by Chris Pronger, the best the Oilers’ have to offer, Marleau is stealing the show and proving why he remains the Sharks’ captain.
-Tom Preissing, former Colorado College standout defenseman, got his first playoff goal on a sweet shot through traffic.
-Mick McGeough should really wear a helmet. I think all the hits to his head from loose pucks have seriously affected his ability to make calls. Either that, or he went to Bob’s Basement Referee College and majored in BS Calls (props to Megan for coming up with that one…) or he is actually the WCHA’s most hated ref, Todd Anderson, in disguise.
-Dwayne Roloson has some amazing facial ticks. It never fails, whenever play is stopped, he just ticks away. He also might be one of the funniest looking goalies around, excepting Manny Legacy of course and the way his hair sticks out of the back of his helmet…
-Jose Theodore played so amazingly well last night, but the Avs’ loss overshadowed it. He robbed Teemu Selanne not once, but three times.
-Pierre Turgeon should really just retire. He needs to face the fact that he is too slow for the new NHL. He took three selfish penalties last night and allowed some costly turnovers.
-Patrice Brisebois is the biggest liability on the team. Yes, he makes some great outlet passes, but he allowed the turnover that led to the game-winning goal for Anaheim. I think JQ should put Bob Boughner in his place and bench Breeze-by for the next game. But what do I know?
-Where’s Joey? I see someone skating around who looks like Joe Sakic, but he sure doesn’t play like Joe Sakic…
-The playoff beards just keep getting better and better. By far Scott Niedermayer of Anaheim has the very best. Not only is it full and mountainmanish, but also graying a bit. The funniest might be Dan Hinote’s. It’s patchy and uneven but totally killer….

Parting is such sweet sorrow...

Time for some round 2 updates….it was quite a depressing weekend for Avalanche fans. Read on and learn of our sorrow…

Western Conference
4 San Jose vs. 8 Edmonton, series at 1-0: in a 2-1 win over the Edmonton Oilers at the Shark Tank, the San Jose Sharks took the first game of the best of seven series. The lone Edmonton goal came on the power play after former DU standout Matt Carle took a careless hooking penalty 55 seconds into the game. San Jose tied it up just 5 minutes later on a goal by Sharks’ captain Patrick Marleau. Christian Ehrhoff scored the game winner 3:14 into the second stanza. The Sharks managed to catch up to the speedy Oilers and only allowed them 2 shots on goal in the second period and only 16 during the entire game. Dwayne Roloson turned in another great performance for the Oilers making 28 saves on 30 shots. The series continues tonight at 8:30 MST and can be seen on OLN.

5 Anaheim vs. 7 Colorado, series at 2-0: yes that’s right; the Avs lost the first two games in the series while playing at the Pond. That’s not even the worst part about it. Both losses were shutouts. 25 year old Ilya Bryzgalov, former back-up for J.S. Giguere on the Ducks’ squad, actually set an NHL rookie record set in 1945 for the longest amount of shutout time for the post season. He hasn’t allowed a goal in 229 minutes and 42 seconds, which happens to be not only first among rookies, but 4th overall for any goalie, and he set a franchise record recently held by Giguere (217:54 set in 2003). The only thing that can be said about the play of the Avalanche is that it was atrocious. Absolutely terrible…the first game was lost by a score of 5-0, the second by a score of 3-0. The only possible explanation is that they had too much time off (5 days, while Anaheim had only 2 days). This could be to the Avs’ advantage is the Ducks tire as the series goes. But one thing is for sure, they CANNOT afford to lose a game in Colorado. The series moves to Colorado for game 3 on Tuesday at 6pm MST and can be seen on OLN, TSN, and RDS.

Eastern Conference
1 Ottawa vs. 4 Buffalo, series at 0-1: In the only game where the home team lost, the Buffalo Sabres beat the Ottawa Senators by a score of 7-6 in OT. Former Av Chris Drury netted the game winning goal 18 seconds into 1 OT on a sloppy attempt to clear the puck by Ottawa. At 5 different times of the game, Buffalo was down and 5 times they came back. Here’s the kicker though, Buffalo’s Ryan Miller allowed 6 goals on 33 shots, while Ottawa’s Ray Emery allowed 7 on just 23 shots. I think that definitely points to the sloppiness of both teams in this first game. The series continues tonight in Ottawa at 5pm MST.

2 Carolina vs. 3 New Jersey, series at 1-0: If there is one team that actually played worse than the Avs, it’s New Jersey. This team hadn’t lost since March 26, that’s 15 games, 11 in the regular season and 4 in the post season. On what turned out to be a terrible 34th birthday for Martin Brodeur, the Devils lost 6-0. Brodeur was pulled late the third after allowing 6 goals on 35 shots. Carolina counterpart rookie Cam Ward, on the other hand made 21 saves on 21 shots for his first career playoff shutout. This series continues tonight at 5:30pm MST and can be seen on OLN.

Interesting fact:
Let’s take a look at the ages of the goaltenders and how they have done in the 2nd round:
Western Conference
5 San Jose-Vesa Toskala, 29 won
6 Anaheim-Ilya Bryzgalov, 25 won, won
7 Colorado-Jose Theodore, 29 lost, lost
8 Edmonton-Dwayne Roloson, 37 lost

Easter Conference
1 Ottawa-Ray Emery, 24 lost
2 Carolina-Cam Ward, 22 won

4 Buffalo- Ryan Miller, 25 won

Winning Goaltenders
2 Carolina-Cam Ward, 22 won
4 Buffalo- Ryan Miller, 25 won
5 San Jose-Vesa Toskala, 29 won
6 Anaheim-Ilya Bryzgalov, 25 won, won

Losing Goaltenders
1 Ottawa-Ray Emery, 24 lost
3 New Jersey-Martin Brodeur, 34 lost
7 Colorado-Jose Theodore, 29 lost, lost
8 Edmonton-Dwayne Roloson, 37 lost

It appears that age and experience are not on the side of goaltenders in the new NHL.