The CFL season kicks off tonight in Montreal as the two time defending Grey Cup Champs (I hate writing that by the way) host the B.C. Lions, who in my mind will be the most improved team in the entire CFL this year. Not that losing in double OT in the play - off's is anything to be ashamed of, but given their start last year
(0 - 7, the momentum they gained over the last half of the season and into the post season served them very well. Here we go, in no particular order with my picks for the week, my picks for the season, as well as my genereal thoughts.
Week One
B.C. @ Montreal:
Montreal 33; BC 29
Winnipeg @ Hamilton:
Hamilton 27; Winnipeg 13
Toronto @ Calgary:
Calgary 24; Toronto 21
Edmonton @ Saskatchewan:
Saskatchewan 34; Edmonton 24
The Predicted Standings at Season's End
EAST
1. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes are still the Alouettes. Despite the loss of Ben Cahoon, the CFL's all time leading reciever, the Als return 75% of the starters from last seasons Grey Cup victory in Edmonton. When you still have the likes of Jamel Richardson (who I am sure still gives Omarr Morgan nightmares) and S.J. Green, they are still very dangerous with their passsing attack; especially when you have the league's best triggerman firing the bullets. The run game will be the X factor with this team. Avon Cobourne split for the Steel City, leaving a three dog race for the starting job which was earned by Brandon Whitaker. While we haven't heard a whole lot from Whitaker, Jim Popp knows talent and I am sure this kid will be fine.
Defensively they improved their secondary with the addition of Dwight Anderson (biggest jackass in the league) and didn't lose much, if anything in this area. Shea Emry and Chip Cox are two of the most underrated players in the league I believe.
As said earlier, the Als are the Als and they will be right there at the end again as they look for the trifecta.
2. Hamilton Tiger - Cats
The days of the Als running away with the East are over. Not because they are slipping, but because Hamilton is catching up. The Tiger Cats will go tooth and nail with the Als all year. Kevin Glenn had a fantastic season last year, and many of the key cogs from last years offense remain. Throw in the addition of Avon Cobourne and they are more dangerous than they have been in a few years.
Defensively, they have the best linebacking corps in the league. Knowlton, Johnson and newly acquired Rey Williams will be huge for the Cats. They will need to be as the secondary is young and largely inexperienced. The ability to pressure the QB on a regular basis will also aid with the secondary.
They won't win the East title during the regular season, but in a one game showdown in November, they could easily be in Vancouver at season's end.
3. Toronto Argonauts.
I struggle to see why so many peoplpe are enamored with the Argos. They still have Cleo Lemon at QB, no significant improvements were made to their recieving corps, and short of Cory Boyd, they don't scare me at all. Offensively, Boyd will carry the ball a lot. They will need to mix Chad Owens into the equation on offense more regularly to scare teams.
Defensively, you scan expect them to be solid again. However, I don't think they are going to be able to shut teams downs all year, meaning eventually Lemon and what I consider the lack of an offense will be the achilles heel of this team.
You know the Flyin Hawaiian will leave his mark as a returner which will be the most exciting aspect of this club.
They make the play - off's but only because Winnipeg is still too young to make a lot of noise. They are the lesser of the two weakest teams in the league. On a side note, Jim Barker is a loud mouth who looks like he should be selling used cars rather than being the Head Coach of a pro football team. Look at that guy's physique; it oozes sprinkles and whipped cream.
4. Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The future is bright in Winnipeg. They have sold a record 21, 000 season tickets this year, they are one year away from a new stadium, and they are on the rise. Unfortunately they continue to climb this year before they reach the peack.
Offensively, a ton of potential exists at the Wide Reciever positions to go with the already proven Terrence Edwards. Fred Reid is a premier running back. The biggest question for the Bombers if Buck Pierce. He has never played an entire season because of injury, and this year their back - ups are more or less raw rookies who have hardly seen the field. If Pierce stays healthy, they are competitive. If not, its a long season in Winnipeg, but look on the bright side, the Jets are back.
Defensively, they will again be a team who puts a ton of pressure on opposing QB's. Jovon Johnson is as dangerous as anyone at returning the football.
This team will be relevant again, just not this year. Paul Lapolice is a good coach, and I can only hope they reward him for continuing to improve this football team.
WEST
1. Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Yeah, I know...homer pick, right? Not really. Yes they lost Fantuz, but aside from him, who left that was a factor in last year's run to the Grey Cup? All of the questions at receiver I don't see the problem. You still have Dressler, Getzlaf is only getting better, Koch was great when he played and I am eager to see what he can do for an entire year, Clermont is only going to see more action, and the new guys...well let's see. I liked what I saw of Wheelwright, Nunn caught everything in B.C. and we haven't seen him go deep yet. Darian is the second best QB in the league. I fully expect to see him clean up the interceptions and just continue his development into the premier signal caller in the league.
Defensively the obvious question is up front with the D - line. Montez Murphy played pretty well in the pre - season, Luc Mullinder has shown the ability to pressure the QB in the past, and I think Dario Romero up the middle is a significant improvement over Chunky. The linebackers will be strong again led by veteran Barrin Simpson, and if Freeman plays for 18 games the way he did in the play - off's last season you are looking at one of the best in the league. Minor concerns in the secondary but I am sure Richie will work things out, and we do have the best safety in the league in James Patrick.
2. B.C. Lions
Last year I thought Travis Lulay was going to soil his pants at Mosaic in the play - offs. What did he do? He played like a ten year veteran and nearly moved the Lions onto the West Final. Lulay only gets better this year in my mind, and he still has formidable targets to throw to in Geroy Simon, Paris Jackson and the newly acquired Kamau Peterson. Jamel Robertson continues to impress despite his age.
Defensively, they have a veteran secondary, but one still more than capable of getting the job done Solomon Eliminian is one hell of a football player.
They go back and forth with the Riders all year. The fact the Riders host BC twice and only travel to the west coast once, will in my opinion be the difference because the last few years neither team wins on the road.
3. Calgary Stampeders
Offensively, they can still score. Henry Burris is still got it, his recieving corps is one of the best in the league, and what a backfield with Joffrey Reynolds and Jon Cornish. So if they have such a good offense, why will they finsih third?
Well for starters the Riders and Lions are just better all around football teams. I don't think they are aware of how much losing Browner and Anderson from that secondary is going to hurt. I see them as having gone from the best secondary in the league, to the worst. Lot's of yards available through the air when the Stamps are the opponent.
They are easily a .500 team or better, but those two huge losses in the defensive backfield really hurt.
On a side note, since I clearly think the Stamps are not in the equation to be there in the end, why not allow Canadian Brad Sinopli to back up Hank? Bringing in Michael Bishop is a mind boggling decision. He is a bum...flat out...a bum I say. Oh well, just another reason to hate the Stamps. I can't wait till HEEEEEENNNNNNRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYYYY comes to town in August.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
I do not envy Kavis Reed one bit as he premiers as a Head Coach in the CFL. They will be better than last year, but in the competitive west, I still don't see them as a factor. I heard a stat last night, something to the effect that they have six raw Canadian rookies, and like 50% of their lineup is new to the organization. Eric Tillman is making moves for the future, but the future is not now in Edmonton.
Ricky Ray is still a proven QB and Fred Stamps is a very talented slotback. Although, I could do without his self profession of being the best in the league. Daniel Porter ran rough shot the last few weeks of last season and I expect him to continue in his development. However, Ray has one target only..and god forbid Ray should get hurt because that means Kerry Joseph, the guy who in my mind has made the greatest plunge in the history of this league from Grey Cup champ to completely irrelevant.
Hey, it's the Eskimos...we love to hate them too so watching them struggle for another year will be an enjoyment.
What do you think????
Out.....
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
You have got to be kidding me.....
Remember this guy? The guy with a million dollar arm and a ten cent brain (to steal a line from my dad) is back in the CFL. Michael Bishop was a star in college at Kansas State, and that about ends the good that I can say about his football career. Well, apparently the Calgary Stampeders can't find a better emergency replacement than this guy. Following a shoulder injury to back up Drew Tate on Friday, the Stamps are bringing Bishop in to fill the void in Tate's absence. Is the talent pool of unemployed quarterback's really this low? I mean, I am pretty sure that anyone would be better than Bishop....and I do mean anyone. Hello...Todd Dillon......Jeff Bentrim.......Joe Paopao.....are you out there?
The NHL off season is in full swing and for some reason the Vancouver Canucks deem Max Lapierre worth two million dollars over the next two years. I mean if that is the going rate is for a guy with marginal skill at best, who likes to mouth off but lacks the manhood to ever finish what he started, Chaps you are in the wrong business.
Brooks Laich signed a new deal with Washington...good for him but I was hoping the Oil would take a run at him. Oh well, guess we'll see who they can lure to Oil Country come July 1 and beyond.
Beleive it or not, the house will be rocking in t - minus 5 days. Yes, Sunday afternoon, 5:00 the season starts at the madhouse that is Mosaic when the Riders welcome the Edmonton Eskimos to town. I always enjoy the season openers, particularly when it involves kicking the evil empire to the curb.
Not much else kicking in the world of sports......
Out....
Friday, June 24, 2011
Where to Start?
First off, two days late but the Riders stunk out the joint in Vancouver on Wednesday. Let's not panic as you need to remember this is a meaningless game aside from the fact that a majority of the guys on both sides were fighting for a job. Secondly, many important cogs in the Rider wheel were not in the line up..Dressler, Hawkins, Romero, Patrick, et al. These guys will be in the line - up on July 3rd.
After the final decisions are made no later than tomorrow, this team will have seven full days to work together to knock off the rust, improve on timing and positioning, and just to generally prepare for the home opener on July 3rd against Edmonton.
As for the game on Wednesday night, Darian got better as the game went on, and if not for some dropped passes, well too many dropped passes, this team would have scored much more than the six measly points they mustered.
The kicking was awful...either Johnson or Milo need to start delivering with consistency or a new body needs to be brought in for some stability until Luca returns, hopefully sometime around Labour Day.
It looks like Wes Cates not only hangs around for the year; he is still our starter. Based on the fact Hugh Charles didn't get a carry and minimal opportunities in the return game, I am led to believe he has lost the battle to Brandon West who has earned the back up position which means Charles is moreless done as a Rider. He gets scooped if we put him on the PR, so let's work out a deal I guess. If you ask me, Wes Cates needs to be the odd man out. Both Charles and West are in my opinion just as good as he is, presumably better by virtue of their speed plus both are more valuable in the sense that they are capable return men. Wes Cates will not rush for 1, 0000 yards this year. He may lead the league in TD's again but lots of guys can plunge in from a yard out. Just my thoughts.
Others who impressed me....
Gavin Newman, AKA Sunshine.....if we can find a spot for this kid, I think he has demonstrated that he belongs on a CFL field...he will not supplant James Patrick anytime soon but he provides us with a proven non - import backup, as well as somebody I think can be useful on the teams as a gunner on the cover teams.
Terrence Nunn and Ernie Wheelwright in my opinion have earned spots as recievers. I expect to see Nunn start on the wide side with Wheelwright coming in to spell Nunn and Getzlaf as well as provide a capable set of hands when we spread the field with six recievers.
D - Line is anybody's guess. Man I would love to see what Brent Hawkins could do for an entire year if he were healthy.
No matter what happens, I am glad I am not the one making the decisions. However, I am glad that our scouting and front offence has done such a good job of bringing in talent that they are faced with these difficult decisions. This all adds up to another great season of Rider football in 2011....we WILL be there in the end.
The NHL draft goes tonight in Minnesota, but already the Philadelphia Flyers are making the most noise. Yesterday they shipped out Mike Richards (to LA for Wayne Simmonds, Brayden Schenn and a 2012 2nd rounder) and Jeff Carter (to Columbus for Jakub Voracek, the eight pick tonight and a 3rd rounder. I had heard rumors of Carter going to Columbus but the Richards deal shocks me. How do you trade the heart and soul of your team who is at the prime of his career. And then to turn around and give Ilya Bryzgalov nine years and more than $50 million? Bryzgalov is as sure a thing as ice in the summer. He hasn't won anything...EVER and brings a shitty attitude to boot. I realize goaltending has long been an issue in Philly...why not give him a two year deal, allow him to prove who he really is, and then either give him an extension or let him walk. I guess that's why I am not an NHL GM...but if this doesn't work out...neither will Paul Holmgren be an NHL GM.
Draft tonight and the Oilers have the top pick for the second year in a row. The sexy pick if Ryan Nugent Hopkins but I am not sold on this kid. I don't think the Oil need another stud up front...the back end is in need of improvement and I really like Adam Larsson out of Sweden. Is he a number one pick? Maybe they trade down to take him where he is most likely to go...like #3 and the team that owns that pick, Florida....is apparently hot on Steve Tambellini's trail in their efforts to attain the top pick to get their hands on Ryan NH. Only time will tell.
I really think the team who walks away with Gabriel Landeskog tonight will be the winner of the draft. I see him as being the gem of the draft; the forward most likely to have a long, productive career. He has the skill of a Swede coupled with the toughness and heart of a Canadian....does it get much better?
On the flip side, I don't think Jonathan Huberdeau will amount to what people are saying. I heard very little of him prior to the Memorial Cup; was he even invited to the World Junior Camp...? I see him as being a little too frail to be able to bank with men for eighty two games, and lets face it, the space and time he had in the QMJHL is going to disappear quickly. Here's hoping the Oil don't take him.
Out....
After the final decisions are made no later than tomorrow, this team will have seven full days to work together to knock off the rust, improve on timing and positioning, and just to generally prepare for the home opener on July 3rd against Edmonton.
As for the game on Wednesday night, Darian got better as the game went on, and if not for some dropped passes, well too many dropped passes, this team would have scored much more than the six measly points they mustered.
The kicking was awful...either Johnson or Milo need to start delivering with consistency or a new body needs to be brought in for some stability until Luca returns, hopefully sometime around Labour Day.
It looks like Wes Cates not only hangs around for the year; he is still our starter. Based on the fact Hugh Charles didn't get a carry and minimal opportunities in the return game, I am led to believe he has lost the battle to Brandon West who has earned the back up position which means Charles is moreless done as a Rider. He gets scooped if we put him on the PR, so let's work out a deal I guess. If you ask me, Wes Cates needs to be the odd man out. Both Charles and West are in my opinion just as good as he is, presumably better by virtue of their speed plus both are more valuable in the sense that they are capable return men. Wes Cates will not rush for 1, 0000 yards this year. He may lead the league in TD's again but lots of guys can plunge in from a yard out. Just my thoughts.
Others who impressed me....
Gavin Newman, AKA Sunshine.....if we can find a spot for this kid, I think he has demonstrated that he belongs on a CFL field...he will not supplant James Patrick anytime soon but he provides us with a proven non - import backup, as well as somebody I think can be useful on the teams as a gunner on the cover teams.
Terrence Nunn and Ernie Wheelwright in my opinion have earned spots as recievers. I expect to see Nunn start on the wide side with Wheelwright coming in to spell Nunn and Getzlaf as well as provide a capable set of hands when we spread the field with six recievers.
D - Line is anybody's guess. Man I would love to see what Brent Hawkins could do for an entire year if he were healthy.
No matter what happens, I am glad I am not the one making the decisions. However, I am glad that our scouting and front offence has done such a good job of bringing in talent that they are faced with these difficult decisions. This all adds up to another great season of Rider football in 2011....we WILL be there in the end.
The NHL draft goes tonight in Minnesota, but already the Philadelphia Flyers are making the most noise. Yesterday they shipped out Mike Richards (to LA for Wayne Simmonds, Brayden Schenn and a 2012 2nd rounder) and Jeff Carter (to Columbus for Jakub Voracek, the eight pick tonight and a 3rd rounder. I had heard rumors of Carter going to Columbus but the Richards deal shocks me. How do you trade the heart and soul of your team who is at the prime of his career. And then to turn around and give Ilya Bryzgalov nine years and more than $50 million? Bryzgalov is as sure a thing as ice in the summer. He hasn't won anything...EVER and brings a shitty attitude to boot. I realize goaltending has long been an issue in Philly...why not give him a two year deal, allow him to prove who he really is, and then either give him an extension or let him walk. I guess that's why I am not an NHL GM...but if this doesn't work out...neither will Paul Holmgren be an NHL GM.
Draft tonight and the Oilers have the top pick for the second year in a row. The sexy pick if Ryan Nugent Hopkins but I am not sold on this kid. I don't think the Oil need another stud up front...the back end is in need of improvement and I really like Adam Larsson out of Sweden. Is he a number one pick? Maybe they trade down to take him where he is most likely to go...like #3 and the team that owns that pick, Florida....is apparently hot on Steve Tambellini's trail in their efforts to attain the top pick to get their hands on Ryan NH. Only time will tell.
I really think the team who walks away with Gabriel Landeskog tonight will be the winner of the draft. I see him as being the gem of the draft; the forward most likely to have a long, productive career. He has the skill of a Swede coupled with the toughness and heart of a Canadian....does it get much better?
On the flip side, I don't think Jonathan Huberdeau will amount to what people are saying. I heard very little of him prior to the Memorial Cup; was he even invited to the World Junior Camp...? I see him as being a little too frail to be able to bank with men for eighty two games, and lets face it, the space and time he had in the QMJHL is going to disappear quickly. Here's hoping the Oil don't take him.
Out....
Monday, June 20, 2011
Another New Week...
We start off the week with Rider talk, Rory McIlroy and already NHL off season discussions.
The story of the weekend has to be Rory McIlroy. At the age of 22, the young man from Northern Ireland not only won the US Open at Congressional; he set six new records in the process, including the scoring record. Never before had anyone reached - 13 in the history of this tournament. Not only did McIlroy get there, he finished at - 16.
Several players would have walked away thinking they could do nothing more to win the Open. Generally speaking anywhere close to even par will win you this tournament. Numerous guys were not only on that number, but well ahead of it. On any given year, the likes of Jason Day, Y.E. Yang, and Fredrick Jacobson to name a few would have run away with this thing. That just shows how well McIlroy played from start to finish in winning his first, and presumablu far from last Major Championship.
What I don't want to continue is the comparison of McIlroy to Tiger. I like Rory McIlroy and if the media and others make this comparison and it gets to the point that all we see is McIlroy, despite where he may be in that tournament, my fondness, as well as that of countless other golf fans will quickly dissipate.
A little Canadiana for ya...the only birdie on the eighteenth hole yesterday came courtesy of our own Adam Hadwin. Is it just me or is Northern Ireland the new hotbed of golf? McDowell last year, McIlroy this year....will Darren Clarke continue the run next year?
Off to the Riders, and while I wasn't in the crowd at Mosaic on Friday, I did watch at home and here are my observations and thoughts as we enter the second week od pre - season, and are now only 13 days from the season opener.
First off, my controversial thought....we have all thought it and I am going to say it. The Riders should cut ties with Wes Cates. Hugh Charles and Brandon West are faster, smoother, and generally speaking, a lot more dangerous than Cates. Yes, Wes had sixteen touchdowns last year but a no less than a dozen of these were from two yards or less. Sure, he has done a lot for this organization but every player's time comes to an end. Keeping Cates at the risk of losing one of these two would be, in my opinion, ridiculous.
All I heard for the last two weeks was Terrence Nunn, Terrence Nunn. A whopping total of one ball was thrown his way on Friday. While I am certain the weather conditions took away his ability to go deep, you would think they would look his way a little more often. I would expect to see a more involved Terrence Nunn on Wednesday in Vancouver. The reciever who did impress me was Ernie Wheelwright; good hands, good speed, a lot to like there.
Chris Graham made an impression; two sacks and a fumble recovery will certainly earn him a serious look this week, and possibly a spot on the season opening roster. This will be more likely if Brent Hawkins continues to be plagued by his shoulder injury. That to me, is the one area where a whole lot of questions remain, the D Line. Too many guys, nobody jumping out....a long hard look will need to take place along that front on Wednesday.
And last but not least, barring a miracle it most certainly appears that Chris Leak will be the odd man out at the QB position. Durant is clearly the guy, and Dinwiddie and Bergquist were just flat out better than Leak. I really liked what I saw from Bergquist; strong arm, good presence in the pocket, stays calm as he checks down until he finds a guy. I could honestly see him as the backup over Dinwiddie. Again though, Wednesday will go a long way in finalizing this roster.
And less than a week after the Stanley Cup was awarded, already a lot of talk regarding off season moves, and plenty of it involving the Oilers. First off, apparently GM Steve Tambellini is entertaining offers for the Oilers second first round pick, along with other picks and/or players to earn two picks in the Top Five in the Entry Draft on Friday in Minnesota. In the event that the right picks and players are involved, I like the fact that they remain committed to the re - build. However, that being said, if picks are going the other way, lets make sure that we improve as I would hate to see early picks slip through our grasp if that is the case.
And one more rumour regarding the Oilers is the potential return of Captain Canada, Ryan Smyth. According to TSN, Smyth has told the Kings (his current employer) that if they decide to move him, Edmonton is his preference. While I like the theory of bringing in his leadership, his best days are behind him, he still brings a cap hit of around $4 million, and given the way it ended the first time, I think the Oilers need to avoid this. I realize that veteran leadership is something we lack, but let's explore other avenues. Yes, he was great and he bled blue and orange but if he wanted to come back so badly, he could have come as a free agent rather than signing on with Colorado a few years ago. In summation, bringing him back is just not the right thing to do...not like he can bring more fans to a rink that is already full?
More tomorrow....
The story of the weekend has to be Rory McIlroy. At the age of 22, the young man from Northern Ireland not only won the US Open at Congressional; he set six new records in the process, including the scoring record. Never before had anyone reached - 13 in the history of this tournament. Not only did McIlroy get there, he finished at - 16.
Several players would have walked away thinking they could do nothing more to win the Open. Generally speaking anywhere close to even par will win you this tournament. Numerous guys were not only on that number, but well ahead of it. On any given year, the likes of Jason Day, Y.E. Yang, and Fredrick Jacobson to name a few would have run away with this thing. That just shows how well McIlroy played from start to finish in winning his first, and presumablu far from last Major Championship.
What I don't want to continue is the comparison of McIlroy to Tiger. I like Rory McIlroy and if the media and others make this comparison and it gets to the point that all we see is McIlroy, despite where he may be in that tournament, my fondness, as well as that of countless other golf fans will quickly dissipate.
A little Canadiana for ya...the only birdie on the eighteenth hole yesterday came courtesy of our own Adam Hadwin. Is it just me or is Northern Ireland the new hotbed of golf? McDowell last year, McIlroy this year....will Darren Clarke continue the run next year?
Off to the Riders, and while I wasn't in the crowd at Mosaic on Friday, I did watch at home and here are my observations and thoughts as we enter the second week od pre - season, and are now only 13 days from the season opener.
First off, my controversial thought....we have all thought it and I am going to say it. The Riders should cut ties with Wes Cates. Hugh Charles and Brandon West are faster, smoother, and generally speaking, a lot more dangerous than Cates. Yes, Wes had sixteen touchdowns last year but a no less than a dozen of these were from two yards or less. Sure, he has done a lot for this organization but every player's time comes to an end. Keeping Cates at the risk of losing one of these two would be, in my opinion, ridiculous.
All I heard for the last two weeks was Terrence Nunn, Terrence Nunn. A whopping total of one ball was thrown his way on Friday. While I am certain the weather conditions took away his ability to go deep, you would think they would look his way a little more often. I would expect to see a more involved Terrence Nunn on Wednesday in Vancouver. The reciever who did impress me was Ernie Wheelwright; good hands, good speed, a lot to like there.
Chris Graham made an impression; two sacks and a fumble recovery will certainly earn him a serious look this week, and possibly a spot on the season opening roster. This will be more likely if Brent Hawkins continues to be plagued by his shoulder injury. That to me, is the one area where a whole lot of questions remain, the D Line. Too many guys, nobody jumping out....a long hard look will need to take place along that front on Wednesday.
And last but not least, barring a miracle it most certainly appears that Chris Leak will be the odd man out at the QB position. Durant is clearly the guy, and Dinwiddie and Bergquist were just flat out better than Leak. I really liked what I saw from Bergquist; strong arm, good presence in the pocket, stays calm as he checks down until he finds a guy. I could honestly see him as the backup over Dinwiddie. Again though, Wednesday will go a long way in finalizing this roster.
And less than a week after the Stanley Cup was awarded, already a lot of talk regarding off season moves, and plenty of it involving the Oilers. First off, apparently GM Steve Tambellini is entertaining offers for the Oilers second first round pick, along with other picks and/or players to earn two picks in the Top Five in the Entry Draft on Friday in Minnesota. In the event that the right picks and players are involved, I like the fact that they remain committed to the re - build. However, that being said, if picks are going the other way, lets make sure that we improve as I would hate to see early picks slip through our grasp if that is the case.
And one more rumour regarding the Oilers is the potential return of Captain Canada, Ryan Smyth. According to TSN, Smyth has told the Kings (his current employer) that if they decide to move him, Edmonton is his preference. While I like the theory of bringing in his leadership, his best days are behind him, he still brings a cap hit of around $4 million, and given the way it ended the first time, I think the Oilers need to avoid this. I realize that veteran leadership is something we lack, but let's explore other avenues. Yes, he was great and he bled blue and orange but if he wanted to come back so badly, he could have come as a free agent rather than signing on with Colorado a few years ago. In summation, bringing him back is just not the right thing to do...not like he can bring more fans to a rink that is already full?
More tomorrow....
Thursday, June 16, 2011
With Every New End Comes a New Beginning
What is there to say that hasn't already been said in regards to last night's episode in Vancouver? First off....the game. In my mind Vancouver was just outclassed last night in nearly every aspect of the game. Sure the shots were 37 - 20 in favor of the 'Nucks but I truly feel the Bruins carried the game.
While I don't have any sort of fondness for Roberto Luongo, I guess the human in me is glad he wasn't the reason the Canucks lost last night, although his comments sure must have fired up Tim Thomas who was once again exceptional, and the rightful recipient of the Conn Smythe Trophy.
Too many errors, and what appeared to be a lack of jump (save for Ryan Kesler) hurt Vancouver. The first goal of the game is not the result of anything other than the Bruins outhustling and outworking Vancouver. On that play the Canucks won the draw only to have Brad Marchand beat them all to the puck. He then played keepaway from Christian Ehrhoff, leaving two Bruins, including Patric Bergeron in front, to be defended by one Canucks...1 - 0.
The second goal, just an example of the Canucks running around in their own end, and Marchand being quicker around the net than Luongo and/or his defense.
Goal # 3, great play be Bergeron, Ehrhoff has to take him down and fortunately/unfortunately (depending on what side you were rooting for) the puck goes in the net. Game Over, Boston wins a series that they were clearly the better team in.
And then the 'shit' show. I don't understand why fans, victorious or in defeat feel the need to destory their city. Yes, it is all right to party in the city as was the case with the Red Mile (Calgary in 2004) and White Avenue (Edmonton in 2006) but to do what the idiots of Vancouver did is disgusting, shameful and an embarrasement to all the real sports fans who watched, hoped and were disappointed with the result. The people that did that were NOT true sports fans, they are thugs and hooligans looking for any excuse to cause trouble. I hope they catch each and every one of them and lay the bricks to them good.
BUT.....as the title says, with the end of the NHL season comes a new beginning...CFL football and more importantly in these parts, a six month celebration of the greatest team on earth, the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Speaking of the CFL, how well do you think TSN2's coverage of last night's Stamps/Lions game drew?
Anyway, the guys in green take to Mosaic tomorrow night when Eric Tillman and the Evil Empire roll into town. Darian Durant will dress but not play from what I hear, along with Weston Dressler. I am not attending tomorrow night. Really all I want to see is how good Terrence Nunn really is, but I am sure that by the reports I read, if he is as good as advertised, he will be out there July 3rd when the Riders kick off season #101.
Not a whole lot today; the situation in Vancouver obviously something that is disappointing to the people in that city but look on the bright side, the Lions won.
Later....
While I don't have any sort of fondness for Roberto Luongo, I guess the human in me is glad he wasn't the reason the Canucks lost last night, although his comments sure must have fired up Tim Thomas who was once again exceptional, and the rightful recipient of the Conn Smythe Trophy.
Too many errors, and what appeared to be a lack of jump (save for Ryan Kesler) hurt Vancouver. The first goal of the game is not the result of anything other than the Bruins outhustling and outworking Vancouver. On that play the Canucks won the draw only to have Brad Marchand beat them all to the puck. He then played keepaway from Christian Ehrhoff, leaving two Bruins, including Patric Bergeron in front, to be defended by one Canucks...1 - 0.
The second goal, just an example of the Canucks running around in their own end, and Marchand being quicker around the net than Luongo and/or his defense.
Goal # 3, great play be Bergeron, Ehrhoff has to take him down and fortunately/unfortunately (depending on what side you were rooting for) the puck goes in the net. Game Over, Boston wins a series that they were clearly the better team in.
And then the 'shit' show. I don't understand why fans, victorious or in defeat feel the need to destory their city. Yes, it is all right to party in the city as was the case with the Red Mile (Calgary in 2004) and White Avenue (Edmonton in 2006) but to do what the idiots of Vancouver did is disgusting, shameful and an embarrasement to all the real sports fans who watched, hoped and were disappointed with the result. The people that did that were NOT true sports fans, they are thugs and hooligans looking for any excuse to cause trouble. I hope they catch each and every one of them and lay the bricks to them good.
BUT.....as the title says, with the end of the NHL season comes a new beginning...CFL football and more importantly in these parts, a six month celebration of the greatest team on earth, the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Speaking of the CFL, how well do you think TSN2's coverage of last night's Stamps/Lions game drew?
Anyway, the guys in green take to Mosaic tomorrow night when Eric Tillman and the Evil Empire roll into town. Darian Durant will dress but not play from what I hear, along with Weston Dressler. I am not attending tomorrow night. Really all I want to see is how good Terrence Nunn really is, but I am sure that by the reports I read, if he is as good as advertised, he will be out there July 3rd when the Riders kick off season #101.
Not a whole lot today; the situation in Vancouver obviously something that is disappointing to the people in that city but look on the bright side, the Lions won.
Later....
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Shut Up Already....
Meet Daniel Sedin, the latest in a string of loudmouths who play on the left coast. After losing Game Six in Boston, this guy told the Vancouver Sun that they (the Canucks) would win Game Seven at home. His rationale was that they had won the first three games at home and were thus essentially assured of victory. Here are my thoughts on this in no particular order:
(1) Are you seriously this stupid? Do you not remember Saturday when Roberto Luongo more or less said he was better than Tim Thomas after Thomas let in a lucky one in Game Five? Well in case you forgot, after those comments the Canucks tender looked more like Swiss cheese than a world class goalie in allowing three goals in less than eight minutes; all of which Tim Thomas would have saved.
(2) The Canucks have been beaten soundly in Boston three times. The Bruins meanwhile have been right in the middle of all three games in Vancouver. If not for a bounce here, and a bounce there, the Bruins could easily have won one, two, even all three games played in Vancouver.
(3) If the Canucks do win, Daniel Sedin will not be in the discussion of why they won the first Stanley Cup in their history. He has what....?....three points in this series. The leading scored in the league has disappeared.
The Vancouver Canucks need to shut up. They have either complained, or made idiotic comments from the moment this series started. This makes the thought of Vancouver hoisting the Cup tonight a tough pill for me to swallow. In addition, the Canucks have been outscored 19 - 8 in the series. I am not saying that they are going to win but the Bruins sure deserve to win the Cup a lot more than the Canucks.
A Biggie...
Game Seven goes tonight, and I am going to reserve my judgement. Everytime I open my mouth, something goes wrong and my prediction, which is usually what I want to happen, doesn't.
A mind blowing quote from TSN's Ray Ferraro about the big game tonight, and don't get me wrong I think pretty highly of Ferraro but he said this:
"It will be hard to imagine the Canucks winning if they don't score."
NO, REALLY?
A mind blowing quote from TSN's Ray Ferraro about the big game tonight, and don't get me wrong I think pretty highly of Ferraro but he said this:
"It will be hard to imagine the Canucks winning if they don't score."
NO, REALLY?
Monday, June 13, 2011
Love It.
I love this picture...not so much because it is a grown man crying but rather because last August, this guy along with Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh declared themselves a dynasty before they had even played a single game together. They spoke of all the championships they would win. Well, they are still looking after losing 105 - 95 last night at home to the Dallas Mavericks. Lebron is now 0 - 2 in NBA Finals, and still can't make change for a dollar as he never has more than three quarters on him at anytime. Here's hoping these clowns NEVER win a title!
It is even more enjoyable to know that the team who didn't talk, didn't boast, didn't make fun on their opponent just shut up and won. Good for the Maverick's; I remember back in the early 90's when they were an awful team. They paid their dues and good on them.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Huge Game Tonight....
A game of gignatic proportions goes down tonight in Vancouver. The Canucks, reeling from two beat downs in Beantown are set to host the Bruins. The Stanley Cup Final is squared at two and it is not beyond the realm of possiblity that tonight's winner will go on to hoist Lord Stanley.
Personally, I can't help but think the Bruins are in complete control of this series. Not only did they beat the Canucks on the scoreboard; they abused them physically and have forced the Canucks into playing a style of hockey that they are NOT capable of playing. I think we also need to remember that Boston lost Game One on a very late goal and lost Game two in OT. A couple of bounces here or there last week in Vancouver and this thing is already over. Regardless the teams go back at it tonight, and while I expect to see a different Vancouver team, unless they make drastic changes to their style of play, they do not win tonight.
On a related, but unrelated not, I have heard so many people say that they don't like the beaking and physicality of this series. Honestly, I LOVE it. These two teams despise one another and want so desperately to beat the other; that is what the Stanley Cup Play - off's are all about.
Bob Mackenzie of TSN was very vocal about his displeasure for the actions of Brad Marchand in the two games in Boston. For starters Bob, you are supposed to be neutral. If you are going to throw guys under the bus for being agitators, include Burrows, Kesler and Lapierre to your list. These three clowns have been just as annoying, if not worse than Marchand. On top of that, short of Tim Thomas, has there been a better player for the Bruins in this series of late other than Marchand. In my mind, he at least has earned the right to be a little cocky, Burrows, Lapierre and Kesler...not so much. In his attempts to be the tough guy he never has been and never will be, Kesler has completely disappeared in this series. Remember when he told the world 'I can play better' about his play in the Nashville series when he was unbelieveable. What you were selling, I ain't buying Kesler.
Talk today about who the Canucks should start. That is ludicrous...Roberto Luongo is the guy that got you there, and let's face it..his defense was atrocious in Game Four. Can't blame the guy when the likes of Keith Ballard and Andrew Alberts are playing with all the talent of a Junior B defenceman.
You know how I feel, I hate the Canucks, always have, always will. Go Bruins!!!!
Great to see Weyburn native Graham Delaet back out there swinging it with the big boys on the PGA Tour. A little hiccup yesterday may hurt his chances of making the cut at this week's St. Jude Classic but trust me, this kid has the most talent of any Canadian golfer out there. Good luck to you this week, and the rest of the season Graham!
FORE!!!!! See ya Monday
Personally, I can't help but think the Bruins are in complete control of this series. Not only did they beat the Canucks on the scoreboard; they abused them physically and have forced the Canucks into playing a style of hockey that they are NOT capable of playing. I think we also need to remember that Boston lost Game One on a very late goal and lost Game two in OT. A couple of bounces here or there last week in Vancouver and this thing is already over. Regardless the teams go back at it tonight, and while I expect to see a different Vancouver team, unless they make drastic changes to their style of play, they do not win tonight.
On a related, but unrelated not, I have heard so many people say that they don't like the beaking and physicality of this series. Honestly, I LOVE it. These two teams despise one another and want so desperately to beat the other; that is what the Stanley Cup Play - off's are all about.
Bob Mackenzie of TSN was very vocal about his displeasure for the actions of Brad Marchand in the two games in Boston. For starters Bob, you are supposed to be neutral. If you are going to throw guys under the bus for being agitators, include Burrows, Kesler and Lapierre to your list. These three clowns have been just as annoying, if not worse than Marchand. On top of that, short of Tim Thomas, has there been a better player for the Bruins in this series of late other than Marchand. In my mind, he at least has earned the right to be a little cocky, Burrows, Lapierre and Kesler...not so much. In his attempts to be the tough guy he never has been and never will be, Kesler has completely disappeared in this series. Remember when he told the world 'I can play better' about his play in the Nashville series when he was unbelieveable. What you were selling, I ain't buying Kesler.
Talk today about who the Canucks should start. That is ludicrous...Roberto Luongo is the guy that got you there, and let's face it..his defense was atrocious in Game Four. Can't blame the guy when the likes of Keith Ballard and Andrew Alberts are playing with all the talent of a Junior B defenceman.
You know how I feel, I hate the Canucks, always have, always will. Go Bruins!!!!
Great to see Weyburn native Graham Delaet back out there swinging it with the big boys on the PGA Tour. A little hiccup yesterday may hurt his chances of making the cut at this week's St. Jude Classic but trust me, this kid has the most talent of any Canadian golfer out there. Good luck to you this week, and the rest of the season Graham!
FORE!!!!! See ya Monday
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
The NHL has spoken....
Most talk around the water cooler is not about last night's 8 - 1 drubbing the Bruins laid on the Canucks, but rather 'the hit' and what, if any supplementary discipline should be levied. The NHL has spoken, and Aaron Rome has been suspended for four games for his hit on Nathan Horton last night. I have heard everything from he deserves a game, to three or more, to no suspension required. To those advocating no suspension, wake up! These are the hits that the NHL is desperately trying to crack down on.
A lot of Canuck fans have been open on message boards that there was nothing wrong with the hit and Horton should have his head up. Two things: (1) Since when do you need to worry about skating with your head up when you don't have the puck, and haven't had it for a couple of seconds? (2) Put the shoe on the other foot and say that was Johnny Boychuk laying out Daniel or Henrik? Still nothing? I didn't think so.
I agree with what the NHL has done. This is Rome's second game misconduct of the play - off's, third of the season and thus can be seen as a repeat offender.
Last night's final was amongst the 20 most lop - sided scores in the history of the Stanley Cup Play - off's. There has only been game that had a greater margin of victory (8; by Pittsburgh vs. Minnesota in 1991). This is also only the second seven goal margin of victory in history. Interestingly enough, from those twenty games, the winner of 19 of these lop - sided affairs have gone on to win the series. That is a good omen for Boston, but let's face it the Canucks will be a much better team in Game Four on Wednesday night.
I have to question what Alain Vigneault was thinking last night by leaving Roberto Luongo in for all eight goals against. I can see him starting the third because if the Canucks score a couple of quick ones, they are right back in the game again. However, following Dan Paille's shorty to make it 5 - 0, I personally would have taken Luongo out for the remainder.
I know a lot has been said, even some from B's Head Coach Claude Julien about the Bruins players sticking their fingers in the direction of Alex Burrows. (An obvious dig at his finger biting incident from Game One). Say what you want about it not being classy...was Burrows biting Bergeron classy in the first place? Is Burrows well known around the league as being the epitome of class? One of last night's finger pointers was Mark Recchi, and I can honestly say that Recchi has more class in his big toe than Alex Burrows EVER will.
Everything about last night's game (minus the Horton/Rome incident) was everything I love about play - off hockey. These two teams despise one another, things are getting chippy and tensions are on the rise. It should make for a great conclusion to the series.
My only reservation is that perhaps the 'behind the shed' beating it became is presumably more beneficial to the Canucks than the Bruins. I can only pray the B's don't think they can take a night off. They will have to play equally hard, if not harded in Game Four as you know it will be a much different Canucks team that takes the ice at TD Garden Centre on Wedneday.
Talk to ya soon....
A lot of Canuck fans have been open on message boards that there was nothing wrong with the hit and Horton should have his head up. Two things: (1) Since when do you need to worry about skating with your head up when you don't have the puck, and haven't had it for a couple of seconds? (2) Put the shoe on the other foot and say that was Johnny Boychuk laying out Daniel or Henrik? Still nothing? I didn't think so.
I agree with what the NHL has done. This is Rome's second game misconduct of the play - off's, third of the season and thus can be seen as a repeat offender.
Last night's final was amongst the 20 most lop - sided scores in the history of the Stanley Cup Play - off's. There has only been game that had a greater margin of victory (8; by Pittsburgh vs. Minnesota in 1991). This is also only the second seven goal margin of victory in history. Interestingly enough, from those twenty games, the winner of 19 of these lop - sided affairs have gone on to win the series. That is a good omen for Boston, but let's face it the Canucks will be a much better team in Game Four on Wednesday night.
I have to question what Alain Vigneault was thinking last night by leaving Roberto Luongo in for all eight goals against. I can see him starting the third because if the Canucks score a couple of quick ones, they are right back in the game again. However, following Dan Paille's shorty to make it 5 - 0, I personally would have taken Luongo out for the remainder.
I know a lot has been said, even some from B's Head Coach Claude Julien about the Bruins players sticking their fingers in the direction of Alex Burrows. (An obvious dig at his finger biting incident from Game One). Say what you want about it not being classy...was Burrows biting Bergeron classy in the first place? Is Burrows well known around the league as being the epitome of class? One of last night's finger pointers was Mark Recchi, and I can honestly say that Recchi has more class in his big toe than Alex Burrows EVER will.
Everything about last night's game (minus the Horton/Rome incident) was everything I love about play - off hockey. These two teams despise one another, things are getting chippy and tensions are on the rise. It should make for a great conclusion to the series.
My only reservation is that perhaps the 'behind the shed' beating it became is presumably more beneficial to the Canucks than the Bruins. I can only pray the B's don't think they can take a night off. They will have to play equally hard, if not harded in Game Four as you know it will be a much different Canucks team that takes the ice at TD Garden Centre on Wedneday.
Talk to ya soon....
More Later....but I Love This...
Do you think the Bruins forgot that Alex Burrows has a hunger for the fingers of opposing players??? Milan Lucic...you are a gem!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
The Boys Are Back in Town.....
To steal a line from eveyone's favorite 80's band, Thin Lizzy, "the boys are back in town..." They may not have returned in bright white sports cars, but fifteen years after leaving, NHL hockey has returned to Manitoba. In case you live under a rock, True North Sports yesterday announced that they had purchased the Atlanta Thrashers and would be re - locating the team to Winnipeg in time for the 2011 season. As a Canadian, and a Canadian hockey fan, how can one not love the fact that another team will know call the birthplace of hockey home. However, this announcement is still tainted to me by the words and actions of others. I know that those with an education in this matter have a right to speak to this, but what really sparks my inner rage is the common joe idiots with all their negative theories as to why NHL hockey won't work in Winnipeg. For those of you who think you have a theory on why NHL hockey won't work in Winnipeg, shut up and listen as I am only saying this once.
Point A: It is 2011. The economic situation is drastically different now than it was in 1996 when the Jets flew south on a one way trip.
Point B: A salary cap is now in place in the NHL which means that there is a more equitable playing grounds for all NHL teams, unlike 1996.
Point C: Their owner is one of the richest men in the world, not Canada but the WORLD, and he will do all he can to make it work.
Point D: They WILL sell tickets, not only to those in Winnipeg, but also the surrounding area namely Manitoba and eastern Saskatchewan. You must rememeber they are not getting an expansion team and starting from scratch, they are getting a team that is stocked with young talent, and was without a slide in the last month of last season, potentially a play - off team.
Point E: Shut your mouths and give it a chance. If you are against this, you are not a fan of hockey in Canada. Move to the United States and enjoy watching games with the other 217 people showing up to watch games in Atlanta where they don't annoucne the attendance, they introduce all the fans by name.
In case you missed my point, I am all for the return of hockey to Winnipeg. I not only hope they can make it work, I believe they can make it work. And lastly, I hope like hell the 'Jets' name once again flies proudly in the Manitoba capital.
Sticking with the ice, the Stanley Cup Finals, usually the biggest event of the year in Canada, was forced to take a back seat to yesterday's news. Nonetheless, Game One of the Finals goes tonight at Rogers Centre as the Canucks host the Boston Bruins. As I have said from day one of the post season, my greatest desire is to see someone other than the Canucks win the Cup. Having said that, Boston is my last hope. While I think they can beat the Canucks, I am going to refuse to make a prediction out of the realization that I suck at prognosticating. Jimmy the Greek has nothing to fear when it comes to my predictions.
However, what needs to happen for Boston to be successful is Zdeno Chara MUST play like a man of his size and do all he can to make the Sedin's hurt....not injure them but just generally inflict pain. Is it just me or has Chara's hard nosed approach to the game become somewhat softened in the wake of the Max Pacioretty incident?
Off to football, and believe it or not, Rider's rookie camp starts today at Mosaic Stadium. It is hard to believe that is has been over six months since I was staring aimlessly at the floor trying to come to grips with the fact that we once again found a way to lose a Grey Cup. Oh well, every season comes with renewed optimism and 2011 is no exception.
Big news out of Riderville today concerning a couple of high profile Canadians. First off, 14 year Rider Chris Szarka has been released. While Szarka did a ton for this organization, his shelf life was nearing that expiration date, and with three other quality, younger fullbacks coming to camp, the writing was on the wall here.
Secondly, and a little more surprising was word that Rob Bagg injured his knee last week, was forced to have surgery and will start the season on the 9 Game Injury List. There are rumors flying that it is more than a simply knee injury, but rather that it is a complete ACL tear, and he could be out of football for up to a year. I love Rob Bagg, think he has the biggest set of manhood in the league and obviously we are a better football team without him. However, we are very fortunate in Riderville knowing that this loss does not impact nearly as much as it would in other centres. Our cookie jar is stuffed with recievers who can play this game. Here's to hoping Bagg is back as soon as possible, but thank god we have done a tremendous job of acquiring and bringing in the level of talent we have at the reciever position.
Off to College football south of the border, and the ongoing scandal surrounding the Ohio State Buckeyes. As a lifelong Michigan fan, I hate Ohio State; always have and always will. Having said that, reading the stories of what is going on down there only makes me smile. For those of you unfamiliar to the situation, over the last few months, several players on the Buckeyes football team have been suspended for receiving gifts and cash, both of which are direct contradictions to the rules of NCAA football. As the investigation goes on, it now looks as if this has been going on for years. What is more sickening is the fact that their Head Coach for the last ten years, Jim Tressel, not only knew about it, but swept it all under the rug. Jim's failure to vacuum up the mess ultimately cost him his job as he resigned earlier this week but I really don't think the folks at OSU were begging him to stick around. This is not the last you will hear of this story; expect some sanctions on this program by the NCAA in the weeks and months to come. Perhaps another SMU on our hands? SMU, or Southern Methodist University is the only program in the NCAA to have their program completely shut down for a period of time for similar problems.
As for Tressel, add his name to a long list of well respected men in sports whose diarrahetic decision making has done nothing more than ruined a once highly respected reputation. SEE: Pete Rose, Joe Jackson, et al.
You want the worst gig in NHL hockey? Kevin Dineed must. It is reportd that Dineen has agreed to become the next Head Coach of the Florida Panthers. Seriously this job is like a death sentence; nobody supports you, the management team does a terrible job with the talent on the ice, and they have been irrelevant for their entire existence short of their shocking run to the finals in 1996. Honestly, why would anyone want this job? The only positive with this position is nobody cares about hockey enough in Florida to even get upset when they suck year after year.
Lastly, I spent some time this weekend watching baseball. The Blue Jays were hosting the White Sox, and in watching this I realized there are two things I love about the Chicago White Sox:
(A) Manager Ozzie Guillen. This guy is a card; he says what he thinks and does not hold back any punches. Often times he goes too far, but I respect anyone who doesn't worry about what others think; they just say what they think.
(B) Their broadcast crew on WGN television out of Chicago. I can't think of their names right now, but if you ever get a chance to watch the White Sox play on WGN, tune in. These guys LOVE their team. While I normally despise 'Homers', these guys somehow make it fun to listen to......"Put it on the board........YES!" or "Get foul!" are just a tinkering of how they make watching baseball a little more enjoyable. Perhaps they could teach a course that helps to make broadcasters much more enjoyable to listen to. If that day should come, I nominate Rob Black as the first one who should enroll. Seriously, why does this guy still have a job. He is terrible; the only sport he is any good at broadcasting is figure skating and let's face it...figure skating, really?
Who was in charge of picking the tournament All - Stars at last weeks Memorial Cup? Have they ever watched hockey before? My issue is with their choice of tournament All - Star at the goaltender position. Jordan Bannington of the Owen Sound Attack was their choice in the end. While I have nothing against this young man; how do you not give this to Jacob Deserres of the champion Saint John Sea Dogs. The kid was fantastic all week, and was literally the best player on the ice in Sunday's final. In addition, how can you give this to a kid who didn't even have the confidence of his own coach to play their tie - breaker game against Kootenay. BRUTAL!!!!
I honestly can't think of anything else.....Later
Point A: It is 2011. The economic situation is drastically different now than it was in 1996 when the Jets flew south on a one way trip.
Point B: A salary cap is now in place in the NHL which means that there is a more equitable playing grounds for all NHL teams, unlike 1996.
Point C: Their owner is one of the richest men in the world, not Canada but the WORLD, and he will do all he can to make it work.
Point D: They WILL sell tickets, not only to those in Winnipeg, but also the surrounding area namely Manitoba and eastern Saskatchewan. You must rememeber they are not getting an expansion team and starting from scratch, they are getting a team that is stocked with young talent, and was without a slide in the last month of last season, potentially a play - off team.
Point E: Shut your mouths and give it a chance. If you are against this, you are not a fan of hockey in Canada. Move to the United States and enjoy watching games with the other 217 people showing up to watch games in Atlanta where they don't annoucne the attendance, they introduce all the fans by name.
In case you missed my point, I am all for the return of hockey to Winnipeg. I not only hope they can make it work, I believe they can make it work. And lastly, I hope like hell the 'Jets' name once again flies proudly in the Manitoba capital.
Sticking with the ice, the Stanley Cup Finals, usually the biggest event of the year in Canada, was forced to take a back seat to yesterday's news. Nonetheless, Game One of the Finals goes tonight at Rogers Centre as the Canucks host the Boston Bruins. As I have said from day one of the post season, my greatest desire is to see someone other than the Canucks win the Cup. Having said that, Boston is my last hope. While I think they can beat the Canucks, I am going to refuse to make a prediction out of the realization that I suck at prognosticating. Jimmy the Greek has nothing to fear when it comes to my predictions.
However, what needs to happen for Boston to be successful is Zdeno Chara MUST play like a man of his size and do all he can to make the Sedin's hurt....not injure them but just generally inflict pain. Is it just me or has Chara's hard nosed approach to the game become somewhat softened in the wake of the Max Pacioretty incident?
Off to football, and believe it or not, Rider's rookie camp starts today at Mosaic Stadium. It is hard to believe that is has been over six months since I was staring aimlessly at the floor trying to come to grips with the fact that we once again found a way to lose a Grey Cup. Oh well, every season comes with renewed optimism and 2011 is no exception.
Big news out of Riderville today concerning a couple of high profile Canadians. First off, 14 year Rider Chris Szarka has been released. While Szarka did a ton for this organization, his shelf life was nearing that expiration date, and with three other quality, younger fullbacks coming to camp, the writing was on the wall here.
Secondly, and a little more surprising was word that Rob Bagg injured his knee last week, was forced to have surgery and will start the season on the 9 Game Injury List. There are rumors flying that it is more than a simply knee injury, but rather that it is a complete ACL tear, and he could be out of football for up to a year. I love Rob Bagg, think he has the biggest set of manhood in the league and obviously we are a better football team without him. However, we are very fortunate in Riderville knowing that this loss does not impact nearly as much as it would in other centres. Our cookie jar is stuffed with recievers who can play this game. Here's to hoping Bagg is back as soon as possible, but thank god we have done a tremendous job of acquiring and bringing in the level of talent we have at the reciever position.
Off to College football south of the border, and the ongoing scandal surrounding the Ohio State Buckeyes. As a lifelong Michigan fan, I hate Ohio State; always have and always will. Having said that, reading the stories of what is going on down there only makes me smile. For those of you unfamiliar to the situation, over the last few months, several players on the Buckeyes football team have been suspended for receiving gifts and cash, both of which are direct contradictions to the rules of NCAA football. As the investigation goes on, it now looks as if this has been going on for years. What is more sickening is the fact that their Head Coach for the last ten years, Jim Tressel, not only knew about it, but swept it all under the rug. Jim's failure to vacuum up the mess ultimately cost him his job as he resigned earlier this week but I really don't think the folks at OSU were begging him to stick around. This is not the last you will hear of this story; expect some sanctions on this program by the NCAA in the weeks and months to come. Perhaps another SMU on our hands? SMU, or Southern Methodist University is the only program in the NCAA to have their program completely shut down for a period of time for similar problems.
As for Tressel, add his name to a long list of well respected men in sports whose diarrahetic decision making has done nothing more than ruined a once highly respected reputation. SEE: Pete Rose, Joe Jackson, et al.
You want the worst gig in NHL hockey? Kevin Dineed must. It is reportd that Dineen has agreed to become the next Head Coach of the Florida Panthers. Seriously this job is like a death sentence; nobody supports you, the management team does a terrible job with the talent on the ice, and they have been irrelevant for their entire existence short of their shocking run to the finals in 1996. Honestly, why would anyone want this job? The only positive with this position is nobody cares about hockey enough in Florida to even get upset when they suck year after year.
Lastly, I spent some time this weekend watching baseball. The Blue Jays were hosting the White Sox, and in watching this I realized there are two things I love about the Chicago White Sox:
(A) Manager Ozzie Guillen. This guy is a card; he says what he thinks and does not hold back any punches. Often times he goes too far, but I respect anyone who doesn't worry about what others think; they just say what they think.
(B) Their broadcast crew on WGN television out of Chicago. I can't think of their names right now, but if you ever get a chance to watch the White Sox play on WGN, tune in. These guys LOVE their team. While I normally despise 'Homers', these guys somehow make it fun to listen to......"Put it on the board........YES!" or "Get foul!" are just a tinkering of how they make watching baseball a little more enjoyable. Perhaps they could teach a course that helps to make broadcasters much more enjoyable to listen to. If that day should come, I nominate Rob Black as the first one who should enroll. Seriously, why does this guy still have a job. He is terrible; the only sport he is any good at broadcasting is figure skating and let's face it...figure skating, really?
Who was in charge of picking the tournament All - Stars at last weeks Memorial Cup? Have they ever watched hockey before? My issue is with their choice of tournament All - Star at the goaltender position. Jordan Bannington of the Owen Sound Attack was their choice in the end. While I have nothing against this young man; how do you not give this to Jacob Deserres of the champion Saint John Sea Dogs. The kid was fantastic all week, and was literally the best player on the ice in Sunday's final. In addition, how can you give this to a kid who didn't even have the confidence of his own coach to play their tie - breaker game against Kootenay. BRUTAL!!!!
I honestly can't think of anything else.....Later
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