I like Ron Wilson. He's high tech, smart and seems to be a nice guy. Nevertheless, he's had his turn here in San Jose-Bye Ronny it's been nice knowing you.
Why does RW deserve to be fired?
The Sharks breakout scheme is absolutely the worst in the league. Pass the puck back. Keep on retreating and give the forecheckers time to chase you down. Lets go behind the net to set up instead of making the quick outlet pass. Always pass along the board to get it picked off. Couple this with a mostly inexperienced and immobile D corp against a transtion/trapping team and you have a disaster.
Eliminated in the 2nd round for 3 years in a row is not going to win many believers. The way they lost those series stings having gone up each time. And this year is just the icing on the cake.
Offseason wish list.
A new coach with a different scheme
An instigator
At least 2 defensemen can shoot the puck from the point and can skate
Bye everyone. It's been fun knowing you all. Go Penguins!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
Disappointed
I am thoroughly disappointed in the Sharks right now.
I took the game 1 loss pretty well. They played hard. They played well. They played with heart. So the OT loss wasn't THAT bad, and it was ok to swallow. Life went on.
Last night, was a different story. They had the 2-1 lead after 2nd, and they completely imploded in the 3rd. It might have been the worst period I've ever watched...ever.
TURNOVERS! TURNOVERS! TURNOVERS! absolutely killed us. All the 4 goals were over turnovers. All 4 goals were because the defense couldn't make that first pass to clear the zone and proceeded to turn over the puck. Well, no. I take that back. The one goal Modano scored out of the penality box was cause Vlasic was out of position. For at least 10 seconds, I kept yelling that Pickles was out of position for the entire shift. I knew he was going to get burned...and I was correct.
Our defense sucks. Campbell, Erhoff, Rivet, Carle, Vlasic all made horrible mistakes, and they couldn't clear the puck! Gosh. They played like a bunch of wusses.
The only good thing about the game was that Section 220, Row 15 has to be the best section in the arena. It's a bunch of hardcore season ticket fans, that get so into the game and are so passionate.
Best line from the game (after a defenseman just happened to pass the puck to an open area on the ice): "Ok guys. Now is not the time to pass the puck to your imaginary friends on the ice."
I took the game 1 loss pretty well. They played hard. They played well. They played with heart. So the OT loss wasn't THAT bad, and it was ok to swallow. Life went on.
Last night, was a different story. They had the 2-1 lead after 2nd, and they completely imploded in the 3rd. It might have been the worst period I've ever watched...ever.
TURNOVERS! TURNOVERS! TURNOVERS! absolutely killed us. All the 4 goals were over turnovers. All 4 goals were because the defense couldn't make that first pass to clear the zone and proceeded to turn over the puck. Well, no. I take that back. The one goal Modano scored out of the penality box was cause Vlasic was out of position. For at least 10 seconds, I kept yelling that Pickles was out of position for the entire shift. I knew he was going to get burned...and I was correct.
Our defense sucks. Campbell, Erhoff, Rivet, Carle, Vlasic all made horrible mistakes, and they couldn't clear the puck! Gosh. They played like a bunch of wusses.
The only good thing about the game was that Section 220, Row 15 has to be the best section in the arena. It's a bunch of hardcore season ticket fans, that get so into the game and are so passionate.
Best line from the game (after a defenseman just happened to pass the puck to an open area on the ice): "Ok guys. Now is not the time to pass the puck to your imaginary friends on the ice."
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Shot blocking
The art of shot blocking is not glamorous. Hardly anyone gets noticed, but like RW said, its the details of the game. Shot blocking requires both timing and courage. The timing part comes when you lay down to block a shot and a guy fakes it, he can skate by you. And courage? Well lets just say its not instinctive to stand in the way of a 90 plus mph slap shot and have it hit you. The Sharks need guys willing to block shots to win the Cup.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Marleau Hop
Anybody have any thoughts on the Patrick Marleau hop on Modano's power play goal? It's generated some heated discussion from fans coaches announcers alike. Looking at the replay, I would have to agree that Marleau SHOULD NOT HAVE JUMPED. Even if he stood there that puck hits his skate probably. Sorry Captain, we need you to show up, sacrifice the body, whatever it takes. Our team goes where you go.
Sharks System
Our supposed puck possession system will not be around longer (which of course means RW and his coaching staff are gone) if the Sharks dont get at least to the WCF.
Sometimes when the Sharks do a D to D pass behind the net to avoid the forecheckers, they are just standing there. This gives the forecheckers time to put pressure on your D and eventually the Sharks D men cough it up, get hemmed in their own zone and the puck ends up in their own net. I don't know if Ron Wilson is trying to have puck possession like Detroit, but Detroit's defensemen are lot more skilled than ours. When you have Rafalski and Lidstrom you can play catch all day if you wanted to. Does anyone want to see any of the Sharks defensemen play catch too long in their own zone? I think not.
To summarize, it's better to make one quick pass out of our own zone than making multiple passes to avoid the forecheckers. Both options have there risks, but at least with the quick pass you have the potential to catch the other team off guard.
Sometimes when the Sharks do a D to D pass behind the net to avoid the forecheckers, they are just standing there. This gives the forecheckers time to put pressure on your D and eventually the Sharks D men cough it up, get hemmed in their own zone and the puck ends up in their own net. I don't know if Ron Wilson is trying to have puck possession like Detroit, but Detroit's defensemen are lot more skilled than ours. When you have Rafalski and Lidstrom you can play catch all day if you wanted to. Does anyone want to see any of the Sharks defensemen play catch too long in their own zone? I think not.
To summarize, it's better to make one quick pass out of our own zone than making multiple passes to avoid the forecheckers. Both options have there risks, but at least with the quick pass you have the potential to catch the other team off guard.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
2nd Round Preview
Dallas vs. San Jose
This 2nd round promises to be another long series between two old rivals.
Here are some things to look for on the Sharks
Sharks PK vs Dallas PP
The Sharks vaunted #1 PK in the regular season was absolutely atrocious against the Flames and ranked dead last out of the 16 playoff teams after the first round. Mike Grier took a horrible angle on the Adrian Acouin shot from the point for Calgary's first goal in game 7 and has not been very good along with Mitchell in getting pucks out the whole series. Simply put, our pk guys are not getting to loose pucks and need to work harder. Dallas has more skilled guys and watch out for Modano on the point as well as Robidas who had a tremendous series against Anahiem.
Sharks 3rd line performance
The normally reliable 3rd line of Mitchell, Grier and Rismiller during the regular season managed a combined 2 pts total that whole series (2 assists). While not expected to score a bunch of goals, they need to get better defensively. Rismiller was scratched a couple games and RW put Michalek on that line for a bit as well. This line got hemmed in its own zone way too long for a checking line.
Milan and Brian
Milan looked better in game 7 and had some chances and played well defensively. He needs to chip in some goals to take the pressure of Cheechoo on that 1st line. Campbell looked lost out their at times with Murray giving up at least 2-3 breakaways that series. Calgary's relentless forecheck gave BC little space to skate or operate. Expect Dallas to try the same to make him a nonfactor. The playoffs are about adjustments. Brian needs to lead the offense, especially on the power play. Oh, and please beware of Mike Modano when on the pp on the point. I do not want to seem him going alone on Nabby. He has killed us shorthanded multiple occasions during the regular season.
Things to look for on Dallas
Sergei Zubov
Word on the street is that Sergei is practicing again and is day to day. If he comes back in this series an already lethal Dallas PP (2nd ranked in postseason) will certainly get even better.
Dallas defensemen
The injury to Boucher and Zubov has put the young Dallas defensemen right into the playoff fire. Niskanen, Fistric, and Grossman will have to deal with a much better group of forwards than Anahiem. Look for the Sharks to try to exploit these inexperienced D.
Steve Ott
The Calgary Flames never had an agitator in the truest sense. Fans hated Phanuf, but Dion was a superstar defensemen. An agitator doesn't need to score to get under your skin. Steve Ott fits that description. Think Sean Avery of the NYR. Will the Sharks remained disciplined when Ott tries to goad them into taking penalties? If not, this could be a very short series.
Niklas Hagman
Like Milan Michalek this guy posted goose eggs in the 1st round. Having scored 27 goals in the regular season, if he can't produce and the Sharks remained disciplined, Dallas will have a tough time getting secondary scoring aside from the Modanos, Riberos and Richards.
This 2nd round promises to be another long series between two old rivals.
Here are some things to look for on the Sharks
Sharks PK vs Dallas PP
The Sharks vaunted #1 PK in the regular season was absolutely atrocious against the Flames and ranked dead last out of the 16 playoff teams after the first round. Mike Grier took a horrible angle on the Adrian Acouin shot from the point for Calgary's first goal in game 7 and has not been very good along with Mitchell in getting pucks out the whole series. Simply put, our pk guys are not getting to loose pucks and need to work harder. Dallas has more skilled guys and watch out for Modano on the point as well as Robidas who had a tremendous series against Anahiem.
Sharks 3rd line performance
The normally reliable 3rd line of Mitchell, Grier and Rismiller during the regular season managed a combined 2 pts total that whole series (2 assists). While not expected to score a bunch of goals, they need to get better defensively. Rismiller was scratched a couple games and RW put Michalek on that line for a bit as well. This line got hemmed in its own zone way too long for a checking line.
Milan and Brian
Milan looked better in game 7 and had some chances and played well defensively. He needs to chip in some goals to take the pressure of Cheechoo on that 1st line. Campbell looked lost out their at times with Murray giving up at least 2-3 breakaways that series. Calgary's relentless forecheck gave BC little space to skate or operate. Expect Dallas to try the same to make him a nonfactor. The playoffs are about adjustments. Brian needs to lead the offense, especially on the power play. Oh, and please beware of Mike Modano when on the pp on the point. I do not want to seem him going alone on Nabby. He has killed us shorthanded multiple occasions during the regular season.
Things to look for on Dallas
Sergei Zubov
Word on the street is that Sergei is practicing again and is day to day. If he comes back in this series an already lethal Dallas PP (2nd ranked in postseason) will certainly get even better.
Dallas defensemen
The injury to Boucher and Zubov has put the young Dallas defensemen right into the playoff fire. Niskanen, Fistric, and Grossman will have to deal with a much better group of forwards than Anahiem. Look for the Sharks to try to exploit these inexperienced D.
Steve Ott
The Calgary Flames never had an agitator in the truest sense. Fans hated Phanuf, but Dion was a superstar defensemen. An agitator doesn't need to score to get under your skin. Steve Ott fits that description. Think Sean Avery of the NYR. Will the Sharks remained disciplined when Ott tries to goad them into taking penalties? If not, this could be a very short series.
Niklas Hagman
Like Milan Michalek this guy posted goose eggs in the 1st round. Having scored 27 goals in the regular season, if he can't produce and the Sharks remained disciplined, Dallas will have a tough time getting secondary scoring aside from the Modanos, Riberos and Richards.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Cry babies
Lol. That post by John really gave me a good chuckle. Guys do get emotional...just with their sports teams =P
Here are some quotes from this series (I will leave you to guess who actually said them=) Enjoy!
"..is pissed beyond belief"
"The Sharks touched me tonight"
"now is not a good time to talk to me"
"the handshake got me emotional"
"The Sharks and I are not on speaking terms again"
"I'm speechless"
"I'm so ticked"
"I was moved"
Here are some quotes from this series (I will leave you to guess who actually said them=) Enjoy!
"..is pissed beyond belief"
"The Sharks touched me tonight"
"now is not a good time to talk to me"
"the handshake got me emotional"
"The Sharks and I are not on speaking terms again"
"I'm speechless"
"I'm so ticked"
"I was moved"
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
A love affair
My boy JR was benched for game 6 and came through when it mattered the most. I love you JR!!!
You knew the moment and came through.
The great traditional hockey handshake at the end of the series moved me. Owen Nolan, a fierce competitor and the ex Shark who carried/captained this team in the past played his heart out. He would embrace JR and then Nabby for what seemed an eternity. I feel for that man. It's too bad he's not on our side this year and I'm sure Doug Wilson wouldn't have minded having him on the Sharks after his performance this year. That man, like JR was built for the postseason.
What can you say about this team? Their depth of scoring came through. They had plenty of learning experiences this series. Thank you Flames for participating in the Sharks growth. Tip your hat off to Calgary. They were tough as nails, physical, and played in your face hockey. They also scared the crap out of me (and I'm sure a lot of other fans).
Just looking ahead at the remaining teams in the playoffs, with both Calgary and Anahiem eliminated, the Sharks are probably the best forechecking team left. They faced probably the most physical team of the postseason and came through. The critics should be silenced, at least in terms of their grit. The next series, our penalty killing must get better or Dallas will rip us apart. Go get em boys!!!!
Alicia Keys' song "Falling" best summarized the relationship with my Sharks during this 7 game nail biter. =)
I keep on fallin'... in--- love with you
Sometimes I love ya, sometimes you make me blue
Sometimes I feel good, At times I feel used
Lovin' you darlin', makes me so confused
How do you give me so much pleasure,
cause me so much pain,
'Cause when I
think I'm taking
more than would a fool I start
fallin' back in love with you.
You knew the moment and came through.
The great traditional hockey handshake at the end of the series moved me. Owen Nolan, a fierce competitor and the ex Shark who carried/captained this team in the past played his heart out. He would embrace JR and then Nabby for what seemed an eternity. I feel for that man. It's too bad he's not on our side this year and I'm sure Doug Wilson wouldn't have minded having him on the Sharks after his performance this year. That man, like JR was built for the postseason.
What can you say about this team? Their depth of scoring came through. They had plenty of learning experiences this series. Thank you Flames for participating in the Sharks growth. Tip your hat off to Calgary. They were tough as nails, physical, and played in your face hockey. They also scared the crap out of me (and I'm sure a lot of other fans).
Just looking ahead at the remaining teams in the playoffs, with both Calgary and Anahiem eliminated, the Sharks are probably the best forechecking team left. They faced probably the most physical team of the postseason and came through. The critics should be silenced, at least in terms of their grit. The next series, our penalty killing must get better or Dallas will rip us apart. Go get em boys!!!!
Alicia Keys' song "Falling" best summarized the relationship with my Sharks during this 7 game nail biter. =)
I keep on fallin'... in--- love with you
Sometimes I love ya, sometimes you make me blue
Sometimes I feel good, At times I feel used
Lovin' you darlin', makes me so confused
How do you give me so much pleasure,
cause me so much pain,
'Cause when I
think I'm taking
more than would a fool I start
fallin' back in love with you.
Guys are Emotional
Im still getting over the game, so Im not going to post anything about it tonight...maybe tomorrow. but AMAZING!!!
But here's a conversation that Chris and I had tonight...
Jonathan:
WOW
hhahaah
im so drinaed
in the middle of the 3rd
i just sat in my seat
not doing anything
cause ting and i got so into it in the first 2 periods
but omg
what a GREAT game
im so proud of them
i almost started crying
hahaha
Chris:
haha
when??
Jonathan:
after the 5th goal
Chris:
hahaha
Jonathan:
tears of joy that is :)
Chris:
nice
Jonathan:
JR
what a game
what a class act
and nolan
i love that guy
Chris:
yeah
the handshaking got me pretty emotional
haha
at the end
Jonathan:
i know
me too
Chris:
nolan giving nabby and JR hugs
Jonathan:
HAHAHA
yeaaaah
Chris:
man, we are girls
GO SHARKS!!! BRING ON DALLAS!!!
But here's a conversation that Chris and I had tonight...
Jonathan:
WOW
hhahaah
im so drinaed
in the middle of the 3rd
i just sat in my seat
not doing anything
cause ting and i got so into it in the first 2 periods
but omg
what a GREAT game
im so proud of them
i almost started crying
hahaha
Chris:
haha
when??
Jonathan:
after the 5th goal
Chris:
hahaha
Jonathan:
tears of joy that is :)
Chris:
nice
Jonathan:
JR
what a game
what a class act
and nolan
i love that guy
Chris:
yeah
the handshaking got me pretty emotional
haha
at the end
Jonathan:
i know
me too
Chris:
nolan giving nabby and JR hugs
Jonathan:
HAHAHA
yeaaaah
Chris:
man, we are girls
GO SHARKS!!! BRING ON DALLAS!!!
Bye Bye Flames... Hello Stars
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to go to today's game or watch it on TV. So... I will leave the in-depth analysis for those that watched.
I just wanted to be the first one on here to say congrats to the Sharks on moving to round 2 and congrats to the fans for surviving round 1.
Be prepared for many more near-heart attacks. Good ones of course. *wink*
I just wanted to be the first one on here to say congrats to the Sharks on moving to round 2 and congrats to the fans for surviving round 1.
Be prepared for many more near-heart attacks. Good ones of course. *wink*
Monday, April 21, 2008
Play or Die Hard
No matter what the result tomorrow, we (John and I are going to game 7) are going to be part of history. If the Sharks lose, the makeup of this franchise will be shaken. This maybe the end of the Joe and Patty Era. It's a shame because Marleau has been tremendous, but this is a results business. Ron and even Doug maybe gone. Players will be dealt, traded, or signed.
On the flip side, if Sharks win, they can take plenty of learning experience to the further rounds and will be better off due this Calgary's series.
First ever game 7 in Stanely Cup playoffs in San Jose, CA. 83 percent of home teams have won game 7's.
Keys to tomorrow's game.
Get a quick start and the first goal. Our 1st periods have been atrocious. A bad start in this game will be a disaster.
Play hard for 60 minutes.
Get key saves from Nabby. (He let in a few soft goals these last 2 games)
On the flip side, if Sharks win, they can take plenty of learning experience to the further rounds and will be better off due this Calgary's series.
First ever game 7 in Stanely Cup playoffs in San Jose, CA. 83 percent of home teams have won game 7's.
Keys to tomorrow's game.
Get a quick start and the first goal. Our 1st periods have been atrocious. A bad start in this game will be a disaster.
Play hard for 60 minutes.
Get key saves from Nabby. (He let in a few soft goals these last 2 games)
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Phase 3
The Sharks have been tested twice this series. Game 2 was a test to see if they could bounce back. Game 4 was a test to save the season and the future makeup of the franchise. And now we move on to game 6 and critical test #3. Nobody wants to see a game 7 because anything can happen. Can our team smell blood?
Just how important was last night's win? According to Randy Hahn, 22 out of 25 teams that won Game 5, went on to win the series.
Just how important was last night's win? According to Randy Hahn, 22 out of 25 teams that won Game 5, went on to win the series.
Depth
As Grace pointed out, the Sharks depth of scoring finally came through last night. Calgary is essentially led by two or three guys on offense. If they dont get secondary scoring from Tanguay, Huselius (Useless) or other sources, this series will conclude on Sunday.
How sweet is it for Patty to come through with that goal last night? His quick release and accurate shot was a thing of beauty. I've gotta try that @ the rink sometime.
How sweet is it for Patty to come through with that goal last night? His quick release and accurate shot was a thing of beauty. I've gotta try that @ the rink sometime.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Statistics
Before I get into this, I will prelude with - due to lack of time (writing this at work) and overall laziness in wanting to go too deep, I have decided to do a quick 'analysis' based on some stats. I am very aware (and had made the conscious decision) that I did not explore every possible variable. This is just a quick and dirty analysis... just don't show this to my old stats professors, they may yell at me. =)
I was looking at our player stats this morning, and compared them with the rest of the league. Here are some things I took note of:
TOTAL POINTS
Team
7: Clowe
5: Thornton
4: Marleau, Pavelski
League
8: Crosby (PIT)
7: Clowe (SJS), Malkin (PIT), Ribeiro (DAL)
GOALS
Team
4: Clowe
1: Pavelski, Marleau, Cheechoo, Thornton, Murray, Mitchell
League
4: Clowe (SJS), Brier (PHI), Koivu (MIN)
3: Datsyuk (DET), Elias (NJD), Morrow (DAL), Phaneuf (CGY), Green (WSH), Avery (NYR), Sykora (PIT)
ASSISTS
Team
4: Thornton
3: Marleau, Clowe, Pavelski
League
6: Crosby (PIT), Ribeiro (DAL)
5: Malkin (PIT)
4: Prospal (PHI), Gomez (NYR), Iginla (CGY), Thornton (SJS), Jagr (NYR), Hossa (PIT), Robidas (DAL)
POWER PLAY GOALS
Team
2: Clowe
1: Mitchell
League
3: Morrow (DAL)
2: Green (WSH), Pronger (ANA), Elias (NJD), Hejduk (COL), Clowe (SJS), Lehtinen (DAL), Briere (PHI)
Naturally, no one's surprised to see Joe leading the team in assists, but who would've thought a month ago that Clowe would represent the Sharks (within the team and in the league) in points, goals and power play goals? However, we can't solely depend on the consistency of Clowe to carry us to the finals. If you look closely at the league stats, several teams have multiple players appearing high up in the stats lists. I'd like to see that happen for the Sharks within the next few games.
Now I know you're probably thinking: even though our top scorers haven't scored much, they've still been contributing a lot to the game (hitting, shots, etc.). Don't get me wrong, I think it's great and extremely important that those responsibilities have been picked up by more players. I would just like to see the same thing (eventually) happen in the area of scoring.
An additional thought, we really need to step it up in the area of special teams. Both our power plays and penalty kills have been on the lower end:
POWER PLAY
Series
23.1%: Calgary
14.3%: San Jose
League
40.0%: Dallas
26.1%: Pittsburgh
23.1%: Anaheim, Calgary
PENALTY KILL
Series
85.7%: Calgary
76.9%: San Jose
League
94.1%: Montreal
92.3%: Pittsburgh
90.5%: Boston
88.2%: Detroit, Colorado
I was looking at our player stats this morning, and compared them with the rest of the league. Here are some things I took note of:
TOTAL POINTS
Team
7: Clowe
5: Thornton
4: Marleau, Pavelski
League
8: Crosby (PIT)
7: Clowe (SJS), Malkin (PIT), Ribeiro (DAL)
GOALS
Team
4: Clowe
1: Pavelski, Marleau, Cheechoo, Thornton, Murray, Mitchell
League
4: Clowe (SJS), Brier (PHI), Koivu (MIN)
3: Datsyuk (DET), Elias (NJD), Morrow (DAL), Phaneuf (CGY), Green (WSH), Avery (NYR), Sykora (PIT)
ASSISTS
Team
4: Thornton
3: Marleau, Clowe, Pavelski
League
6: Crosby (PIT), Ribeiro (DAL)
5: Malkin (PIT)
4: Prospal (PHI), Gomez (NYR), Iginla (CGY), Thornton (SJS), Jagr (NYR), Hossa (PIT), Robidas (DAL)
POWER PLAY GOALS
Team
2: Clowe
1: Mitchell
League
3: Morrow (DAL)
2: Green (WSH), Pronger (ANA), Elias (NJD), Hejduk (COL), Clowe (SJS), Lehtinen (DAL), Briere (PHI)
Naturally, no one's surprised to see Joe leading the team in assists, but who would've thought a month ago that Clowe would represent the Sharks (within the team and in the league) in points, goals and power play goals? However, we can't solely depend on the consistency of Clowe to carry us to the finals. If you look closely at the league stats, several teams have multiple players appearing high up in the stats lists. I'd like to see that happen for the Sharks within the next few games.
Now I know you're probably thinking: even though our top scorers haven't scored much, they've still been contributing a lot to the game (hitting, shots, etc.). Don't get me wrong, I think it's great and extremely important that those responsibilities have been picked up by more players. I would just like to see the same thing (eventually) happen in the area of scoring.
An additional thought, we really need to step it up in the area of special teams. Both our power plays and penalty kills have been on the lower end:
POWER PLAY
Series
23.1%: Calgary
14.3%: San Jose
League
40.0%: Dallas
26.1%: Pittsburgh
23.1%: Anaheim, Calgary
PENALTY KILL
Series
85.7%: Calgary
76.9%: San Jose
League
94.1%: Montreal
92.3%: Pittsburgh
90.5%: Boston
88.2%: Detroit, Colorado
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Sean Avery - the punk
This is kind of off-topic, but did you guys see Sean Avery the other night in front of Marty Brodeur??
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ec_2oKWe2Gw
It resulted in "The Avery Rule"
"An unsportsmanlike conduct minor penalty (Rule 75) will be interpreted and applied, effective immediately, to a situation when an offensive player positions himself facing the opposition goaltender and engages in actions such as waving his arms or stick in front of the goaltender's face, for the purpose of improperly interfering with and/or distracting the goaltender as opposed to positioning himself to try to make a play."
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2008/news/story?id=3346729
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ec_2oKWe2Gw
It resulted in "The Avery Rule"
"An unsportsmanlike conduct minor penalty (Rule 75) will be interpreted and applied, effective immediately, to a situation when an offensive player positions himself facing the opposition goaltender and engages in actions such as waving his arms or stick in front of the goaltender's face, for the purpose of improperly interfering with and/or distracting the goaltender as opposed to positioning himself to try to make a play."
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2008/news/story?id=3346729
Quote from ESPN
Here's a breakdown of the series by John Buccigross...though I think this was written before Game 4...
"Every time the Sharks suck you in with their promise and potential, they pull what they pulled in Game 3, when they inexplicably lost to Calgary. They simply don't know how to manage a game like that, and frankly, I thought Brian Campbell's effort on the Owen Nolan goal was weak. He should have done everything he could to block that shot. Even though San Jose lost Game 1, I felt good about its chances. The Sharks appeared to be the better team. Then they went out and proved it in Game 2 and early in Game 3. The Stanley Cup playoffs are about hunger and togetherness. That's it! The Sharks need to make that commitment to each other right now. I expect them to bounce back strong, but they need someone with presence to stand up and say, "Don't disappoint me!" Part of being a leader is convincing people that if you let THEM down, they might never talk to you again and might lose all respect for you. Who wanted Steve Yzerman to lose even a little respect for them as a result of not giving everything they had to the cause?"
Thank you Marleau. Thank you.
"Every time the Sharks suck you in with their promise and potential, they pull what they pulled in Game 3, when they inexplicably lost to Calgary. They simply don't know how to manage a game like that, and frankly, I thought Brian Campbell's effort on the Owen Nolan goal was weak. He should have done everything he could to block that shot. Even though San Jose lost Game 1, I felt good about its chances. The Sharks appeared to be the better team. Then they went out and proved it in Game 2 and early in Game 3. The Stanley Cup playoffs are about hunger and togetherness. That's it! The Sharks need to make that commitment to each other right now. I expect them to bounce back strong, but they need someone with presence to stand up and say, "Don't disappoint me!" Part of being a leader is convincing people that if you let THEM down, they might never talk to you again and might lose all respect for you. Who wanted Steve Yzerman to lose even a little respect for them as a result of not giving everything they had to the cause?"
Thank you Marleau. Thank you.
No guts, no glory...and living on a prayer
That was a gutsy effort. For those who watched the game and read the boxscores, one would think the Sharks dominated this game. And they did. Problem is they were down by one goal with 5 minutes left in the (dare I say season?). This victory took everything the Sharks had: Mental toughness, heart, blood, sweat, tears, hard work, guts, guts, guts..... I am so proud of this team. NO matter what happens the rest of the series or season, the Sharks have inspired me tonight. I am touched. With all the history this team had with chokes in the playoffs and the recent loss of game 3, this team passed another critical test. These boys are growing up to become men. Their resiliency was unequivocally displayed tonight before everyone's eyes.
Before the game and during the third period I prayed. I don't think there's any thing wrong with asking God. Nowhere in the Bible says you can't ask. The worst thing that could happen is that he won't give it to you. Anyways, here was my prayer: (he answered part of it)
Before the game and during the third period I prayed. I don't think there's any thing wrong with asking God. Nowhere in the Bible says you can't ask. The worst thing that could happen is that he won't give it to you. Anyways, here was my prayer: (he answered part of it)
Lord,
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Game 4 Recap
I dont recall a more insane ending in a Shark's game. WOW. WHAT A GAME!!!
Mad props to Chris for taking the positive route these past couple days, unlike me :) But yeah, they have been playing really well, just bad breaks here and there, and even though they were down a majority of the game today, they outplayed the Flames most of the game. They just had a couple breaks against them (11 shots against or something), so it was only a matter of time that things started going there way.
Captain Patrick Marleau. I have to admit, I really wanted the Sharks to trade him this season. He was such an under-performer. But wow. I think this is his official breakout series. The turning point in the game was when Mitchell went to the box for an unintentional high stick...and with our best penalty killer in the box, Ron Wilson sent Marleau out. And then there was a play when he forechecked, forced a slight turnover, and he didnt give up. He kept poking and poking at the puck, which turned into a great shorthanded scoring chance. With his play, I think Marleau definitely motivated the Sharks. Oh captain...our captain. He's scoring, passing, playing physical, and just leading by example. What a great series.
Jonathan Cheechoo. Joe Thorton. The great players in any sports come through in the clutch. When the game, the series, the season, people's jobs are on the line, they come through...and boy did Cheech and Joe come through. Wow...im still speechless.
Im still nervous about our defense. Everyone mishandled the puck and couldn't keep the puck in. I have a feeling its going to bite us in the rear in the end...but again, I'll let Ting talk about the D.
But wow. What a game. The Sharks are back in it.
See you at the Tank on Thursday night.
GO SHARKS!!!
Mad props to Chris for taking the positive route these past couple days, unlike me :) But yeah, they have been playing really well, just bad breaks here and there, and even though they were down a majority of the game today, they outplayed the Flames most of the game. They just had a couple breaks against them (11 shots against or something), so it was only a matter of time that things started going there way.
Captain Patrick Marleau. I have to admit, I really wanted the Sharks to trade him this season. He was such an under-performer. But wow. I think this is his official breakout series. The turning point in the game was when Mitchell went to the box for an unintentional high stick...and with our best penalty killer in the box, Ron Wilson sent Marleau out. And then there was a play when he forechecked, forced a slight turnover, and he didnt give up. He kept poking and poking at the puck, which turned into a great shorthanded scoring chance. With his play, I think Marleau definitely motivated the Sharks. Oh captain...our captain. He's scoring, passing, playing physical, and just leading by example. What a great series.
Jonathan Cheechoo. Joe Thorton. The great players in any sports come through in the clutch. When the game, the series, the season, people's jobs are on the line, they come through...and boy did Cheech and Joe come through. Wow...im still speechless.
Im still nervous about our defense. Everyone mishandled the puck and couldn't keep the puck in. I have a feeling its going to bite us in the rear in the end...but again, I'll let Ting talk about the D.
But wow. What a game. The Sharks are back in it.
See you at the Tank on Thursday night.
GO SHARKS!!!
In perspective
As bad and painful this loss was for Sharks fans, there have been far worst chokes in sports history. The Red Sox down 3-0 series comeback against the Yanks has to be most memorable one in recent history and perhaps all. Twice teams have come back 3-0 in NHL series. But the most recent one I recall in a single game in playoff series would have to be the "Stunner at Staples". LA was down 3-0 with 6:07 remaining and stunned the Red Wings to even and eventually win that 1st round series. The Sharks were only up one goal by the end of the second, so the choke doesn't sound all that bad.
Nightmare on Sharks Street
I don't know how many of you guys actually dream about the team, but I did last night. It was weird, I dreamed that we were down 7-0 and trying to mount a comeback. Somehow we made it close but lost eventually. Anyways....
Wow. Nice post Chris. Clearly you are the bright spot on this blog with an optimistic outlook. Thanks for keeping us balanced.
In the past two years the tests have come in the 2nd round. This year the playoff tests have come one round early. The Sharks showed up for game 2 and now need to show up for game 4 once again, or dare I say the season is over. I would also like to add that if we don't get out of the first round, I'm guessing the coaching staff will not be back next year. (I like RW, but this is a results business)
As far as the defensmen are concerned, I think we need one more legitimate puck moving/shooting defensemen. Brian Campbell is not enough. Every top team has at least 2 guys who are top tier defensemen. We all know that half of our D can be caught flat footed.
Quotable Quotes
"It takes men to play this sport, not a bunch of boys," the Sharks goalie said Sunday night. "And we looked like a bunch of boys out there, and they looked like a bunch of men.
(Note to Nabby, While I love this quote and would say it myself, the Sharks do have some boys, Pickles, Carle and Mitchell)
Wow. Nice post Chris. Clearly you are the bright spot on this blog with an optimistic outlook. Thanks for keeping us balanced.
In the past two years the tests have come in the 2nd round. This year the playoff tests have come one round early. The Sharks showed up for game 2 and now need to show up for game 4 once again, or dare I say the season is over. I would also like to add that if we don't get out of the first round, I'm guessing the coaching staff will not be back next year. (I like RW, but this is a results business)
As far as the defensmen are concerned, I think we need one more legitimate puck moving/shooting defensemen. Brian Campbell is not enough. Every top team has at least 2 guys who are top tier defensemen. We all know that half of our D can be caught flat footed.
Quotable Quotes
"It takes men to play this sport, not a bunch of boys," the Sharks goalie said Sunday night. "And we looked like a bunch of boys out there, and they looked like a bunch of men.
(Note to Nabby, While I love this quote and would say it myself, the Sharks do have some boys, Pickles, Carle and Mitchell)
Game 4 - Pregame thoughts
As ugly as Game 3 was, I still think we have a good chance to advance this round. After winning tonight's game (yes, we are winning tonight), it's basically just a best of 3 series with 2 games at home. We have more talent than them - we just need a few breaks and a few calls and we should win it.
The only remarks I'll make about Game 3 are positive. I mentioned it in a comment on one of Jon's earlier posts, but especially after last game, Patrick Marleau has been the Sharks' best player so far this series. Not just because of the statistics he's put up, but because I get a good feeling every time he's on the ice now. That honor used to belong only to Joe Thornton, but now he has company. Patty's been creating plays with his speed, forechecking and pressuring the puck, finishing his checks, and just going all out every shift. And after taking those 2 huge hits in the first period and getting right back into the game, I don't think anyone can question his heart.
Where the heck has our first line been? I understand that teams might pressure or hold you more in the playoffs, but it's not like teams don't try to stop you in the regular season. Aside from a couple plays all series, I haven't noticed our top line at all. Joe hasn't had time and space to get set up like he normally does and therefore Cheech and Milan aren't getting the puck in position to score. The Flames are almost always sending two guys at Joe and their forwards are collapsing towards the goal to take away the quick centering pass from behind the net. I think this line needs to try something different to counter. Either not relying on Joe setting up behind the net, or maybe getting the defensemen involved from the point and getting some people in front of the net. I think Clowe would fit well on this line because he could create a lot of traffic up front.
Aside from our top line problems, I think the rest of our forwards have been playing pretty well. If you add one or two goals per game from our top line, we either win or tie every game. Guys like Grier, JR, Pavelski, Mitchell and gang have been playing hard and doing what they're supposed to do.
Now the defense is another topic, but I think Ting has a special place in his heart for D-men, so I'll leave that post to him...
The only remarks I'll make about Game 3 are positive. I mentioned it in a comment on one of Jon's earlier posts, but especially after last game, Patrick Marleau has been the Sharks' best player so far this series. Not just because of the statistics he's put up, but because I get a good feeling every time he's on the ice now. That honor used to belong only to Joe Thornton, but now he has company. Patty's been creating plays with his speed, forechecking and pressuring the puck, finishing his checks, and just going all out every shift. And after taking those 2 huge hits in the first period and getting right back into the game, I don't think anyone can question his heart.
Where the heck has our first line been? I understand that teams might pressure or hold you more in the playoffs, but it's not like teams don't try to stop you in the regular season. Aside from a couple plays all series, I haven't noticed our top line at all. Joe hasn't had time and space to get set up like he normally does and therefore Cheech and Milan aren't getting the puck in position to score. The Flames are almost always sending two guys at Joe and their forwards are collapsing towards the goal to take away the quick centering pass from behind the net. I think this line needs to try something different to counter. Either not relying on Joe setting up behind the net, or maybe getting the defensemen involved from the point and getting some people in front of the net. I think Clowe would fit well on this line because he could create a lot of traffic up front.
Aside from our top line problems, I think the rest of our forwards have been playing pretty well. If you add one or two goals per game from our top line, we either win or tie every game. Guys like Grier, JR, Pavelski, Mitchell and gang have been playing hard and doing what they're supposed to do.
Now the defense is another topic, but I think Ting has a special place in his heart for D-men, so I'll leave that post to him...
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Scoring in the postseason
I read an interesting stat a few days ago that the Sharks have the lowest goal differential compared to any of the past Stanley Cup winners. The bright side is that the Sharks can win close games, the bad is that they have a hard time putting opponents away.
Speaking of scoring, Ryan Clowe and his 6-2 225 Ibs body has been doing the job by going to the front of the net. The same cannot be said for Jonathan Cheechoo or Milan Michalek who have been absent in the scoring department the first two games. While Clowe, Pavs, and Patty's line have been clicking, the #1 line needs to step it up for the Sharks to be successful. The double teaming of Thornton means that Cheech and Milan need to find the open space or create space for themselves (in Milan's case with his speed).
Speaking of scoring, Ryan Clowe and his 6-2 225 Ibs body has been doing the job by going to the front of the net. The same cannot be said for Jonathan Cheechoo or Milan Michalek who have been absent in the scoring department the first two games. While Clowe, Pavs, and Patty's line have been clicking, the #1 line needs to step it up for the Sharks to be successful. The double teaming of Thornton means that Cheech and Milan need to find the open space or create space for themselves (in Milan's case with his speed).
Media in Calgary
If you want to read what the media is saying up in Calgary, here's a link to the front page of the Calgary Herald's coverage of the playoffs.
Calgary Herald
Supposedly the Flames are still ticked off about the officiating from game 2.
Flames still burn over officiating
Calgary Herald
Supposedly the Flames are still ticked off about the officiating from game 2.
Flames still burn over officiating
Friday, April 11, 2008
Game 2
Nabokov's performance tonight is the kind of play that is needed to win the Cup. While his 3rd period save on Nolan was jaw dropping, his two key saves (a backdoor play and another a 2 on 1 ) in the first period kept the Sharks in it. I had expected the Sharks to come out with some fire after game 1, but they still looked shaky being outshot and outplayed in the first few minutes.
I know a certain contributor on this site loves to rip 'his boy', but the Sharks really are missing Christian Ehrhoff. While renown for his inability to hit the net consistently, he has improved tremendously this year (along with Murray) especially in his own zone. Next to Campbell, he is one of the better skaters on the Sharks blueline. Ehrhoff has that ability to skate it out of his own zone when all the passing lanes are covered.
In the meantime, my 'boy' Kyle Mac was more physical and played better-albeit his patented hip check didn't stop anyone tonight. Matt Carle is an upgrade from Semenov and made a great play to swat the puck away from Nolan to prevent a breakaway. Of course, that was followed by a boneheaded pass to nobody on the point. The Sharks D still makes me cringe as they can be caught flat footed and make very poor break out passes.
Sunday's game against Calgary should be fun at the Saddledome. The best road team in the NHL should be focused and ready to go. No more first game jitters. This series is on.
(*We would like to thank the Golden State Warriors for participating in the 2007-2008 regular season. Warrior fans may commiserate at their local sports bars and pick up souvenirs
at the gift shops. Fans interested in following a real team with any potential, should switch over to the men on ice.)
I know a certain contributor on this site loves to rip 'his boy', but the Sharks really are missing Christian Ehrhoff. While renown for his inability to hit the net consistently, he has improved tremendously this year (along with Murray) especially in his own zone. Next to Campbell, he is one of the better skaters on the Sharks blueline. Ehrhoff has that ability to skate it out of his own zone when all the passing lanes are covered.
In the meantime, my 'boy' Kyle Mac was more physical and played better-albeit his patented hip check didn't stop anyone tonight. Matt Carle is an upgrade from Semenov and made a great play to swat the puck away from Nolan to prevent a breakaway. Of course, that was followed by a boneheaded pass to nobody on the point. The Sharks D still makes me cringe as they can be caught flat footed and make very poor break out passes.
Sunday's game against Calgary should be fun at the Saddledome. The best road team in the NHL should be focused and ready to go. No more first game jitters. This series is on.
(*We would like to thank the Golden State Warriors for participating in the 2007-2008 regular season. Warrior fans may commiserate at their local sports bars and pick up souvenirs
at the gift shops. Fans interested in following a real team with any potential, should switch over to the men on ice.)
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Round 1 Game 2
the game was all about Nabby. He kept us in the entire game. He has one of the quickest gloves in the league, as can be seen when he robbed Owen Nolan point blank with 5 minutes remaining to preserve a 2 goal lead.
If we're going to win the cup, I saw we should just give him the Conn Smthe Trophy right now. He played amazingly.
Chris was kind of right...for some reason, the fans didn't seem that into it this game. Granted the arena was really loud at the player introductions and at the end when we gave Nabby a standing ovation...but other than that, it was really quiet, and really disappointing.
maybe the fans are pretty tentative too?
our big guns (thorton, marleau, and cheechoo) havent been producing these past two games, but its good that other players are stepping up. hopeflly they'll show up when we absoutely need them most.
If we're going to win the cup, I saw we should just give him the Conn Smthe Trophy right now. He played amazingly.
Chris was kind of right...for some reason, the fans didn't seem that into it this game. Granted the arena was really loud at the player introductions and at the end when we gave Nabby a standing ovation...but other than that, it was really quiet, and really disappointing.
maybe the fans are pretty tentative too?
our big guns (thorton, marleau, and cheechoo) havent been producing these past two games, but its good that other players are stepping up. hopeflly they'll show up when we absoutely need them most.
Comedy Cast
For those of you interested. Here's a link to a more heated "discussion" of what happened with Comcast last night. http://www.mercextra.com/blogs/buzz/2008/04/10/sharks-comcast-solve-tv-problem-tonight-maybe-at-giants-expense/
And here's my favorite comment from a fan by Tadpole
"So…I see everyone upset at Comcast Sport Net. Good. I gave DishNetwork a call when I could not get to the game…and gave them an earful too. Their comment to me was that Comcast had done a blackout of a home game. The lady I talked to said, “What sport is that, sir?” and I said, “Your daddy didn’t raise you right, did he?” I asked for the supervisor. I gave him an earful. He said he was a Pittsburgh Penguins fan. I said that explained it then. The game came on after a while. What a bone-headed play on their part."
WOW. "Your daddy didn't raise you right"...ROFL
And here's my favorite comment from a fan by Tadpole
"So…I see everyone upset at Comcast Sport Net. Good. I gave DishNetwork a call when I could not get to the game…and gave them an earful too. Their comment to me was that Comcast had done a blackout of a home game. The lady I talked to said, “What sport is that, sir?” and I said, “Your daddy didn’t raise you right, did he?” I asked for the supervisor. I gave him an earful. He said he was a Pittsburgh Penguins fan. I said that explained it then. The game came on after a while. What a bone-headed play on their part."
WOW. "Your daddy didn't raise you right"...ROFL
A look back @ Game 1 and Thoughts for tonights Game
The Sharks best players (Joe, Brian, and Nabby) were out played by Calgary's best players (Jarome, Dion, and Mikka) . That's as simple as I could put it. Unfortunately, I can't give much assessment/analysis due to Crapcast's showing of the Oakland A's and the Toronto BlueJays game instead of the opening minutes of the Sharks game. Missing the first 3 goals is not what anyone expected. And believe me, I "expressed myself" to Comcast via email after that blunder.
As far as the playoffs are concerned, I still believe our potential achillies heal will be our D Corp. Big Mac came back from knee surgery so that would explain some why he is slow. That still doesn't excuse his terrible passing. He and the rest of the D, as Drew pointed out last night need to make quicker passes and better decisions with the puck.
Tonight should be the first real test for the Sharks in overcoming adversity in the playoffs. Being down 2-0 is not the end of the world, but it would be a lot harder hill to climb. Every team that has won the Cup has endured through adversity (Whether down in the game or down in the series, teams had to fight back). Can this team, that is so used to playing with the lead, fight back? Part of the answer will come tonight.
Go Sharks!!!
As far as the playoffs are concerned, I still believe our potential achillies heal will be our D Corp. Big Mac came back from knee surgery so that would explain some why he is slow. That still doesn't excuse his terrible passing. He and the rest of the D, as Drew pointed out last night need to make quicker passes and better decisions with the puck.
Tonight should be the first real test for the Sharks in overcoming adversity in the playoffs. Being down 2-0 is not the end of the world, but it would be a lot harder hill to climb. Every team that has won the Cup has endured through adversity (Whether down in the game or down in the series, teams had to fight back). Can this team, that is so used to playing with the lead, fight back? Part of the answer will come tonight.
Go Sharks!!!
Round 1, Game 2 Preview
From Mark Purdy, San Jose Mercury News
"Opportunism: The Sharks should be glad that the second game in the series is tonight, if only to quickly demonstrate that they believe what they were saying after Wednesday's result. That this was only one game and the next one can be different with some adjustments.
Correct enough. Still, one game is hardly meaningless. The numbers show that since 1919 in the NHL, the team that wins Game 1 of a best-of-seven series has advanced 69 percent of the time. But the team that wins both Game 1 and Game 2 has advanced 87 percent of the time.
The obvious advice for our beloved Los Tiburones this evening: Don't put yourself on the wrong side of that 87 percent."
man. i feel our dreams of bringing home the cup all depends on the outcome of tonight's game.
Playoff Intensity
Players - Even though the Sharks were credited with more hits (41-36), I felt like they lacked the intensity needed to win a playoff series. The Flames seemed to come out flying and threw their weight around in the first few minutes, contributing to an early 2-0 lead. It's inexcusable that a team comes out flat in the opening game of the playoffs. The Flames also seemed to work harder to get to pucks and to win battles along the boards. Maybe it has to do with the coaching. "Iron" Mike Keenan is known as a motivator and got his team ready to play, but I can't imagine Ron Wilson yelling and getting his team jacked up before the game.
Fans - Was it just me or was it not very loud in the building? I remember playoff games being so much louder than regular season games. Yesterday, the playoff atmosphere was almost non-existent. Maybe it was because the Flames took the fans out of the game early or maybe there are just too many corporate/bandwagon fans. In any case, I expect the fans at the Tank to step it up a notch.. and so does Barry Melrose.
"5. Which arena will have the most electricity in the first round?
Melrose: The Shark Tank. It's the loudest building in the NHL. All of the first-round arenas will be great; Washington will be unbelievable. But with all of the optimism and the team's strong finish to the regular season, San Jose will be rockin'." (ESPN.com)
Fans - Was it just me or was it not very loud in the building? I remember playoff games being so much louder than regular season games. Yesterday, the playoff atmosphere was almost non-existent. Maybe it was because the Flames took the fans out of the game early or maybe there are just too many corporate/bandwagon fans. In any case, I expect the fans at the Tank to step it up a notch.. and so does Barry Melrose.
"5. Which arena will have the most electricity in the first round?
Melrose: The Shark Tank. It's the loudest building in the NHL. All of the first-round arenas will be great; Washington will be unbelievable. But with all of the optimism and the team's strong finish to the regular season, San Jose will be rockin'." (ESPN.com)
Round 1, Game 1
The Good: Clowe, 39 SOG
The Bad: 4 & 21
The Ugly: 2 Flames goals in the first 5 minutes, 17 seconds
The Funny: Sitting in section 220 with big, loud men... my dad screaming just as loud as them... in Chinese
Moral: " Opportunism: The Sharks have a chance to do much better tonight. They'd best seize it." - Mark Purdy, SJ Mercury News
The Bad: 4 & 21
The Ugly: 2 Flames goals in the first 5 minutes, 17 seconds
The Funny: Sitting in section 220 with big, loud men... my dad screaming just as loud as them... in Chinese
Moral: " Opportunism: The Sharks have a chance to do much better tonight. They'd best seize it." - Mark Purdy, SJ Mercury News
Intro
So my idea is to have a central place where we can post ideas, thoughts, game recaps, articles, etc...
place where we can gripe and etc :)
place where we can gripe and etc :)
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