Reasons We Love Hockey Part 17 « Interchangeable Parts

Reasons We Love Hockey Part 17

July 2, 2007 by Pookie

The 17th in our 118-part series.

True Devils

On the day following Scott Gomez and Brian Rafalski leaving for more money, we’d like to take this opportunity to praise True Devils, those special players that value the organization’s commitment to winning more than they value the fame and fortune they could get elsewhere. In a sports environment where players move from team to team to team, the Devils seem like a throwback for their emphasis on loyalty. Last year we saw two True Devils have their numbers raised to the rafters, in Scott Stevens and Ken Daneyko. One, Stevens, is the model of a True Devil’s loyalty to the team; when he eschewed an agent so he could negotiate directly with Lou to ensure he could sign for less, so strong was his belief in the champion calibre of the team The other, Daneyko, is the model of the franchise’s loyalty to the True Devil, after being supported by the team through personal difficulties that earned him a Masterton Trophy and made the NHL the shining example of how to handle the troubling issue of substance abuse. Looking on from the bench while the #4 and #3 banners were raised, were Marty Brodeur, Patrik Elias, Sergei Brlyin, Jay Pandolfo and Jamie Langenbrunner. Marty followed in Stevens’ footsteps, going agentless in January contract talks that saw him choosing to earn considerably less than market value. Marty is so much of a True Devil, his accomplishments are routinely derided for being a product of the system the team plays, and yet the system is routinely derided for being a product of Marty’s considerable talent. That Patrik Elias wept watching these retirement ceremonies should have clued us in that he would re-sign with the team, but last year’s free agent action stunned us nonetheless. Both he and Langenbrunner showed their True Devil colors by committing to NJ despite offers from other contending teams. Brian Gionta, meanwhile, was so sure he wanted to remain a Devil he actually showed up to training camp without a contract. Yesterday we saw two lifetime Devils leave for other pastures, but we have so many more Devils to celebrate; Devils who were drafted by the team and found it the perfect fit, and Devils who came from elsewhere, but embraced the organization’s commitment to winning and loyalty.

Posted in Reasons We Love Hockey | 875 Comments

875 Responses

on July 2, 2007 at 8:13 pm Mike

Those are all really good points. I’ve been to so many Devils games and it’s funny since I’ve told my friends that someone like a Jay Pandolfo can only happen on the Devils. In my eyes he wouldn’t make sense on any other team; he’s just a Devil. Period. You guys really do have those types of players that stick to the system. On the brighter side, I believe Holik set the bar appropriately for Devils who jump the river :)
on July 2, 2007 at 8:24 pm Katebits

True Sabre? Sigh.
on July 2, 2007 at 8:32 pm Schnookie

Hi Mike! You make such an encouraging point about Holik — and I can only hope (desperately) we’ll see something as magnificent as the Holik Era again at MSG!
on July 2, 2007 at 8:33 pm Schnookie

Aw, Katebits, I’m sure there’s such a thing as a True Sabre. I just don’t know the history of the team well enough to say who they are… (Help me out here, Sabres fans!)
on July 2, 2007 at 8:42 pm Sherry

Umm….how about Lindy Ruff?
on July 2, 2007 at 8:46 pm Mags

Umm….how about Lindy Ruff?

Gotta start somewhere. A coach is as good a place as any.

Nice post girls. Shed a tear :)
on July 2, 2007 at 8:51 pm Katebits

Okay. I’ll take him. Lindy Ruff: True Sabre.

You know what would look better? Crunchy: True Sabre.
on July 2, 2007 at 8:57 pm Sherry

This might not be safe for the Drury/Gomez fans here…well if there are any left.

http://hockey-madness.blogspot.com/2007/07/images-of-drurygomez-and-smythhannan.html

They just look so…uncomfortable
on July 2, 2007 at 8:57 pm WTF

Uh…isn’t this a Devils site? What’s with all the Sabre-love?
on July 2, 2007 at 9:00 pm Mags

Uh…isn’t this a Devils site? What’s with all the Sabre-love?

Is that a problem? Is it a problem that we can find it in us to be nice about other teams too?
on July 2, 2007 at 9:10 pm Schnookie

Um, thanks, Sherry for the picture of Gomer? That really… made my night? He really looked like, if he was capable of rational thought, he’d be going, “What in the hell did I just do?”

IPB is proud to be the Sabres-est Devils blog around, WTF. :P
on July 2, 2007 at 9:14 pm Sherry

I’m sorry Schnookie, I thought the expression on Chris’ face told it all like: “I’ve made a huge mistake”
on July 2, 2007 at 9:16 pm Patty

I thought the expression on Chris’ face told it all like: “I’ve made a huge mistake”

It really does! Just like GOB. :D
on July 2, 2007 at 9:20 pm Meg

Katebits, if we ignore the way Lindy Ruff left the Sabres as a player, I definitely think he counts. And he’s talked about how he regrets that, so I really think we should ignore it.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:21 pm Earl Sleek

Ah yes, it is nice to celebrate those who end their careers as Devils. But why not include guys who’ve had their careers ended by the Devils? No Mogilny love? Malakhov?
on July 2, 2007 at 9:23 pm Schnookie

But why not include guys who’ve had their careers ended by the Devils? No Mogilny love? Malakhov?

Eric Lindros?
on July 2, 2007 at 9:24 pm Katebits

I’m sorry Schnookie, I thought the expression on Chris’ face told it all like: “I’ve made a huge mistake”

Ha! Sherry, you just made my night. I sat forlornly looking at that picture, trying desperately to gather some explaination(meant only for me), in his lost Ranger eyes. Thanks to you Sherry, I now understand. He was trying to tell me, “I’ve made a huge mistake.”

YES, YOU DID S,PW! Now, you have to live with your mistake. You go think about what you’ve done, RANGER.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:28 pm Earl Sleek

Eric Lindros?

Schnookie, fantastic response. You win the award thingy.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:30 pm Meg

But why not include guys who’ve had their careers ended by the Devils? No Mogilny love? Malakhov?

Eric Lindros?

Ooooh…BURN!

And this post is awesome guys. All the loyalty that the Devils organization inspires in their players really is something to be proud of and it’s one of the things I really like about your team.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:36 pm Mags

Drury’s face is. Wow. That’s desperation.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:37 pm Earl Sleek

This might not be safe for the Drury/Gomez fans here…well if there are any left.

Are you calling Bluboo a clown?!
on July 2, 2007 at 9:40 pm Mags

Are you calling Bluboo a clown?!

I thought Andrew already did that.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:40 pm Katebits

heh. Careful not to poke the lumbering bluboo. He’s probably lurking, waiting for his chance to school us all!
on July 2, 2007 at 9:40 pm Pookie

Meg, aw, thanks for the kind words about the Devils! So, I know nothing about the Sabres history — what was the deal with Lindy? Did he demand a trade or something? Because Johnny Mac demanded a trade and then later signed with the Rangers, but he’s still sort of a True Devil. (Although we were laughing earlier that he probably goes in every year for his head coach interview with Lou. Lou says, “You’d be a great fit, but we have one question about your resume….” And then he plays video footage of Johnny Mac demanding a trade. Heh heh.)

On a somewhat related note: funny story about Johnny Mac. In the first season after 9-11, when arena security really tightened up, X was furious that she was no longer allowed to bring her giant purse into the games with her. As she was complaining about it she pointed to a guy standing a few sections over from her seat. “Hey!” she cried, “That guy gets to bring a backpack in! No fair!” Our buddy had to explain that that was Johnny Mac had he’s allowed to do whatever he wants. It was very much like the “she is Lana Turner” scene from “L.A. Confidential”.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:42 pm Patty

I really liked your post, too. Of course, selfishly, I start thinking about my own team. We have a few “true” Stars, too.

You can say what you want about Modano, but he never tried to break the team.

There was the big scare when actually went to free agency right before the lockout, but I think he just wanted to see what it was like. He knew he was never going to go, but he just wanted to try it out. In his press conference announcing that he was staying, if you looked carefully, you could see a tear well up when he said he fell in love with Dallas the minute he stepped off the plane from Minnesota.

And Lehtinen’s contract before this one caused some hand-wringing from the NHLPA, I heard, because it was such a bargain. His explanation was, “I like it here, why would I want to leave?”
on July 2, 2007 at 9:45 pm Katebits

Drury’s face is. Wow. That’s desperation.

Sadly Mags, that is the most animated expression I have ever seen on my S,PW in a non-game situation. That is his I-just-inked-a-deal-with-my-childhood-dream-team, ecstatic expression.

I hate the Rangers so much.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:46 pm Mags

Sadly Mags, that is the most animated expression I have ever seen on my S,PW in a non-game situation. That is his I-just-inked-a-deal-with-my-childhood-dream-team, ecstatic expression.

For serious? Are we sure he hasn’t has botox?
on July 2, 2007 at 9:48 pm Sherry

Are you calling Bluboo a clown?!

I thought that was quite obvious.

It was very much like the “she is Lana Turner” scene from “L.A. Confidential”.

I can just picture it perfectly in my head, too.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:50 pm Schnookie

Are you calling Bluboo a clown?!

Speaking of Bluboo, I should tell you all that we have had a name for him since May, when he wrote a hate post about us on his blog: The Gerbtard. Just thought I’d share. (After a long absence from IPB since leaving a sophomoric, gloating comment and then linking to us in said hate post, we were quite giggly when we saw the Gerbtard pop back up in our stats. Sorry you all had to suffer his presence, and thanks to you all for so valiantly not being, well, gerbtarded.)

Patty, Modano and Lehtinen are great examples of guys who are “True [Team Name Here]“s! I love that the NHLPA gnashed its teeth and pulled out its hair over all of Marty’s contracts over his career, and yeah, Marty says exactly the same thing, “I like it here.” Heh. I guess it really is rare enough for players to say (as Marty and Scottie did), “You know, even this so-called ‘lesser’ contract is still making me really, really rich…”
on July 2, 2007 at 9:53 pm Earl Sleek

Well, er, career Ducks? I recall one kid Jorgen Jonsson, brother to NHLer Kenny Jonsson, who came and played a season or so for Anaheim before retreating back to the Swedish Elite League. To my knowledge he hasn’t played for any other NHL team.

Anaheim doesn’t do marriages; it prefers ‘relationships’.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:55 pm Sherry

Anaheim doesn’t do marriages; it prefers ‘relationships’.

Maybe it needs to go into therapy so they can further assess why they are so psychologically afraid/opposed to commitment?
on July 2, 2007 at 9:56 pm Patty

Anaheim doesn’t do marriages; it prefers ‘relationships’.

That’s very Californian of it.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:56 pm Katebits

Are we sure he hasn’t has botox?

I don’t understand where the scar is from the puck he took in the face during the ECF game 5. In the days following, his face looked truly gnarled up, like he was going to have a good permanent gash on his chin.

…..we were quite giggly when we saw the Gerbtard pop back up in our stats.

I’m glad you guys were in the know about the Gerbtard. I actually got a little spooked by him. There has been a remarkable lack of genuine doucherockets here on IPB. I hadn’t really considered what it would be like to have a gerbtard in the mix all of a sudden.

See, what you did S,PW? The Gerbtard is a Rangers fan. Get used to him.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:56 pm Schnookie

Earl, I’ll add Jorgen Jonsson to the list! (And it seems this serial monogamy of Anaheim’s is working…)
on July 2, 2007 at 9:57 pm Earl Sleek

Maybe it needs to go into therapy so they can further assess why they are so psychologically afraid/opposed to commitment?

Well, it had a very Disney childhood, that’s most of the problem.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:57 pm Katebits

Anaheim doesn’t do marriages; it prefers ‘relationships’.

Don’t be silly. Ducks can’t be legally married!
on July 2, 2007 at 9:58 pm Sherry

Well, it had a very Disney childhood, that’s most of the problem.

Ah, I knew it. There’s a reason they always blame the mother.
on July 2, 2007 at 9:59 pm Schnookie

Katebits, I was stunned to hear the Gerbtard speak today, and quite taken aback. I think to call it “unwelcome” would be putting it mildly.

See, what you did S,PW? The Gerbtard is a Rangers fan. Get used to him.

And he’s one of the literate ones.

As for Drury’s chin scar, he just went back to the herpes-riddled-slag-faced-whore-robot factory and got it smoothed out. They use those dent-removal suction cups to do the bodywork.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:01 pm Meg

So, I know nothing about the Sabres history — what was the deal with Lindy? Did he demand a trade or something?

Pookie, if I’m remembering my facts right (I didn’t even know what hockey was at this time) Ruff demanded a trade after being made a healthy scratch in a game. He was the captain of the Sabres at the time. He’s said that in retrospect he handled the situation badly and wasn’t willing to acknowledge that his career was reaching an end, and that it’s one of those things where, if he could do it over, he’d approach things differently.

At least, I think I’m getting that right.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:07 pm Katebits

As for Drury’s chin scar, he just went back to the herpes-riddled-slag-faced-whore-robot factory and got it smoothed out.

Heehee. I’m in a weird place with this today. I want to defend him, but I know I can’t. I want to lovingly call him bland, but I know his blandness is not for me to love anymore. Chris Drury is The Gertard’s sexy, passionate warrior now. I have to let him go take his place in The Gerbtard’s sweaty arms.

I’m glad the hot scar has been suctioned away. A scar would be too interesting for my ex-S,PW.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:07 pm Earl Sleek

Well, recently I have had one particular Row B taunt that I’ve saved for Bertuzzi, but it had to be a particular circumstance, where Bert was coming in to hit a Duck player along the boards. Then I’d give him a good “Hey Bertuzzi. END HIS CAREER!” not so much because that was what I wanted to happen by any means, but really just to let Bertuzzi think about things later.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:09 pm Sherry

not so much because that was what I wanted to happen by any means, but really just to let Bertuzzi think about things later.

I suppose Grumpy Bear will be billing YOU for his therapy bills then.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:12 pm Schnookie

Earl, I think you and Bert are a match made in heaven!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:13 pm Katebits

Well, recently I have had one particular Row B taunt that I’ve saved for Bertuzzi….

I love how thoroughly you think through your taunts, Earl. Before and after the taunt even occurs. I appreciate this dedication to taunt excellence. I mean, you are even willing to eat your own taunts if history proves you wrong (little Teemu Sleek).
on July 2, 2007 at 10:14 pm Earl Sleek

I’ll say this, it will certainly be interesting to see how opponent fans react to having the double-duty of booing Pronger and booing Bertuzzi. I might have to try to assess that over the course of the season.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:14 pm Steph

Well hey Earl, if you would have let me keep him you might still be able to keep that dream alive!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:15 pm Mags

it will certainly be interesting to see how opponent fans react to having the double-duty of booing Pronger and booing Bertuzzi.

I predict that for the season opener, there will be 3 people who boo them. And they might be sitting next to me.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:15 pm Schnookie

I think Earl’s thoughtfulness and maturity about the Art of Taunt is something we could all learn from!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:17 pm Katebits

The Tauntric Arts really are an effective tool when used properly.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:18 pm Mags

The Tauntric Arts

Well played Kate.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:20 pm Earl Sleek

I think Earl’s thoughtfulness and maturity about the Art of Taunt is something we could all learn from!

In the next week or so (when news dies down a little), I will be putting a post up about my historic Schneider taunt (sorry, but it’s not really a story that can be told twice, and also, I don’t remember it very well). It lacked all thoughtfulness and maturity of today’s standards, but it’s really how I became a Row B star.

But yes, really, spending a little time thinking about taunts ahead of time is certainly key to any drunky success.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:21 pm Patty

Is this the chin-scar you’re talking about? Here’s a closeup .
on July 2, 2007 at 10:21 pm Sherry

But yes, really, spending a little time thinking about taunts ahead of time is certainly key to any drunky success.

I suppose the key would be to actually remember the taunts when you’re three sheets to the wind. That in itself is a whole other challenge!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:22 pm Patty

Dang it. I still got it wrong with the link. Never mind.

I swear, I’m in the development group! Unbelievable, isn’t it?
on July 2, 2007 at 10:23 pm Katebits

Patty, I want to see the chin scar!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:24 pm Schnookie

I suppose the key would be to actually remember the taunts when you’re three sheets to the wind. That in itself is a whole other challenge!

Earl, you should start a business selling Tauntric Arts flash cards so drunkies can remember the taunts when they’re at the games.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:24 pm Mags

Corrected link
on July 2, 2007 at 10:25 pm Katebits

Tauntric Arts flash cards

! Great idea!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:25 pm Heather B.

Meg, you pretty much got the Lindy story right.

I would say Lindy is a good True Sabre. I think Rob Ray is a True Sabre. I think Buffalo thinks of Pat Lafontaine as a True Sabre even though he spent as much time with the Islanders and I’m fine with that. The French Connection (Gilbert Perrault, Rick Martin, and Rene Robert) are True Sabres. They even got their own fancy nickname! Dominik Hasek should be a True Sabre but he’s an ass and left on pretty poor terms so he doesn’t qualify. Jay McKee would’ve been a True Sabre if he hadn’t abandoned me last season.

I’m hoping Crunchy will be a True Sabre (4 Life!)
on July 2, 2007 at 10:26 pm Earl Sleek

Here it is. Patty, I’m not any expert by any means, but somehow you are getting IPB’s address mixed in with your link address.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:27 pm Heather B.

Awww, Chris has a Harrison Ford scar! Oh, I mean, THAT WHORE!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:27 pm Katebits

Oh god. Thanks for the links guys, I know I asked, but now my heart is broken. That was HORRIBLE. Waaaa-aaaa!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:27 pm Patty

Thanks, Mags!

What did I do wrong? (You can email me at pattykennedy [at] yahoo [dot] com — no sense subjecting everybody else to it. )

Thanks again. *covers head with raincoat and slinks away*
on July 2, 2007 at 10:28 pm Sherry

Here it is.

Okay, that picture makes Drury look like Sid’s botoxed-up-claymation-long-lost-Robot-Father. Or at least Uncle.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:30 pm Schnookie

Okay, that chin scar is clearly fake! That herpes robot can’t fool me! And Katebits, I think you were confusing vapidity with blandness with your ex-S, PW.

I’m hoping Crunchy will be a True Sabre (4 Life!)

I should be able to talk him into that (he really listens to me, his wife, when making all his business decisions. I was the one who suggested he open the Big Ten Hipster Emporium…), barring, of course, the highly unlikely event that Marty Brodeur ever retires. (I fully expect Marty to have a stipulation in his will that his rotting corpse — and eventually bare skeleton — will be tied up in the goalposts for the Devils so no one else can ever have his job.)
on July 2, 2007 at 10:31 pm Earl Sleek

Don’t worry about it, Patty. It’s better to have good commenting skills and poor linking skills than the alternative.

“The alternative” is why Senor Spam still has a job.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:32 pm Mags

Patty, you had instead of . Too many quotation marks :)
on July 2, 2007 at 10:32 pm Patty

…somehow you are getting IPB’s address mixed in with your link address.

I noticed that when I hovered over the link. I’m not sure how it happened. I’ll figure it out. In the meantime I’ll just give directions, like: Click on Yahoo.com, Click on Sports, Click on NHL… etc. :D
on July 2, 2007 at 10:32 pm Mags

Yeah, like I suspect senor Spam doesn’t like it when Mags types raw code.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:34 pm Patty

Thanks, Earl. That does make me feel better. Although I’m sure you’re just saying that to ease my humiliation. :D
on July 2, 2007 at 10:35 pm Schnookie

Mags, I just pulled your comment out of Senor Spam’s rapacious jaws (see #67). Your comment was hanging out with a rough crowd — porn en espanol.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:35 pm Mags

I’mma try again, because my comment so got eaten. Too many quotation marks Patty. You had <a href=”"”"> instead of <a href=”">
on July 2, 2007 at 10:36 pm Mags

Merci Schnookie :) The code isn’t displaying though. WordPress why do you suddenly hate me?
on July 2, 2007 at 10:37 pm Katebits

Schnookie, that last comment made me laugh, top to bottom. I was trying to pick out the part to italicize, and I couldn’t because it was all too good.

Please do talk to Crunchy on our behalf. Since I am a new fan and my first experience with free agency has been QUITE TRAUMATIC, I have no faith that anyone will ever stay here with me. If you could start whispering sweet nothings into Crunchy’s ear about Buffalo, I’d really appreciate it.

How old is Marty, anyway?
on July 2, 2007 at 10:38 pm Patty

Mags, did I have an extra quotation mark? Or there shouldn’t be any?
on July 2, 2007 at 10:38 pm Mags

How old is Marty, anyway?

35
on July 2, 2007 at 10:38 pm Mags

Patty you had 4 instead of 2.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:39 pm Katebits

35? Really? Dang, Marty’s pretty long in the tooth!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:39 pm Patty

The code isn’t displaying though.

Oh, thank God! Because I had no idea what you were trying to tell me! :D
on July 2, 2007 at 10:40 pm Schnookie

How old is Marty, anyway?

Marty’s answer to that question is, “I am as old as the sands, and will be as old as the tides. So don’t ask, bitch!”

My answer is, “800.”

The real answer is, “35.”
on July 2, 2007 at 10:41 pm Katebits

You Devils CANNOT have Crunchy.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:41 pm Schnookie

35? Really? Dang, Marty’s pretty long in the tooth!

Oh, I don’t know about that… In the words of IPB’s Official Road Trip Muses, he’s older than he once was but younger than he’ll be.

Wow. I just blew my own mind. That’s so deep.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:41 pm Katebits

Just FORGET it.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:43 pm Mags

Schnookie, well colour me impressed.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:43 pm Schnookie

You Devils CANNOT have Crunchy.

Yeah, well, the Rangers COULD NOT have Gomer, but they took him anyway! (Heh.)

(Pookie just said, “Tell her we don’t need Crunchy — tell her we have Jordie Parise!”)
on July 2, 2007 at 10:43 pm Patty

Mags, okay… should they be single quotes, instead of full quotes?

Because in the snippet I pasted in there, I just see two quotes, but they’re full quotation marks, instead of singles. I might need to type them instead of paste them to make sure they’re the right characters.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:45 pm Pookie

(Pookie just said, “Tell her we don’t need Crunchy — tell her we have Jordie Parise!”)

Schnookie left off the part where I added, “Oh yeah, the Hockey Gods will smite me for that.”
on July 2, 2007 at 10:45 pm Mags

Patty, it should be full ones. You just had two sets of them.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:46 pm Sherry

(Pookie just said, “Tell her we don’t need Crunchy — tell her we have Jordie Parise!”)

Yeah, and you can’t have a truly Bad-Ass-Rockin’-Band without a…whatever it is Jordie plays.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:46 pm Katebits

Perhaps Marty is ageless. Like a vampire.

Yeah, well, the Rangers COULD NOT have Gomer, but they took him anyway! (Heh.)

I appreciate that you refrained from saying the name you really meant there, I really do.

Good. You guys have Jordan Parise. Stop eying Crunchy, Schnookie!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:46 pm Pookie

Hey Sherry, weren’t you going to take a driving test today? How’d it go?
on July 2, 2007 at 10:46 pm Patty

I’m going to try again. Bear with me, everybody.

picture
on July 2, 2007 at 10:47 pm Pookie

Yeah, and you can’t have a truly Bad-Ass-Rockin’-Band without a…whatever it is Jordie plays.

Jordy plays the electric keyboe.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:47 pm Sherry

Hey Sherry, weren’t you going to take a driving test today? How’d it go?

Haha, no it’s on Thursday. And I’m predicting it will go poorly, I will not pass, yet somehow manage to not run anybody over.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:47 pm Katebits

You did it Patty! And my heart broke all over again!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:47 pm Mags

YAY Patty! It worked! (I am THE WORST teacher, sorry)
on July 2, 2007 at 10:48 pm Katebits

Sherry, if you’re gonna fail, you might as well run a few people over.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:48 pm Patty

Thanks for the help, Mags…

I pasted the same code I tried before, and just replaced the quote marks by retyping them. I think the original example I had must have been affected by the typeface I copied it from.

(I had a similar problem with a craigslist post once.)

I’m okay now. Now I’m going to link like crazy. :D
on July 2, 2007 at 10:48 pm Pookie

The minute I hit “Send” on that driver’s test comment I thought, “Wait, they wouldn’t hold driver’s tests on Canada Day, Pookie, you’re so stupid!” Well, good luck on Thursday!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:49 pm Sherry

Jordy plays the electric keyboe.

Ah! Of course, he looks exactly like the electric keyboe type.

Sherry, if you’re gonna fail, you might as well run a few people over.

True. You speak wisely.

Again, am I the only one that thinks Drury looks like Sid’s long-lost Robotic Father?
on July 2, 2007 at 10:49 pm Earl Sleek

(I am THE WORST teacher, sorry)

Seriously? I’m in awe of anyone who can explain link codes without being able to show the code.

Besides, THE WORST teacher has already been awarded to my 9th-grade Spanish teacher, Mr. Bradley.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:51 pm Mags

Seriously? I’m in awe of anyone who can explain link codes without being able to show the code.

Besides, THE WORST teacher has already been awarded to my 9th-grade Spanish teacher, Mr. Bradley.

I stand corrected. I would nominate Bluboo, but we’ve never seen him teach. So I won’t judge.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:53 pm Katebits

I’m SURE that bluboo is a very patient, loving teacher. *eyeroll*
on July 2, 2007 at 10:55 pm Earl Sleek

I’m SURE that bluboo is a very patient, loving teacher. *eyeroll*

I’m not even convinced he’s real. Probably an e-character Pookie and Schnookie concocted in order to spice up the comments.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:55 pm Schnookie

I would nominate Bluboo, but we’ve never seen him teach. So I won’t judge.

Now that won a “Comment That Made Schnookie Cackle With Glee” Award. Nicely done, Mags!

(I am also humbled by Pookie’s use of the term “Keyboe”.)

Sherry, I think you’re right that Katebits’ ex-S,PW is at least somewhere in Sid’s robot family. Far away from Sid, I hope, because that herpes looks nasty and easy-to-catch.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:56 pm Patty

So sorry, Katebits! Is this better?
on July 2, 2007 at 10:57 pm Katebits

I was just a zit Schnookie! Waaa-aaa!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:57 pm Heather B.

For those in on the hockey books discussion the other day, I started reading Tropic of Hockey: My Search for the Game in Unlikely Places yesterday and y’all, I’m in love with this book. I think we need an IBP book club stat just so we can all read this sweet, cook, hysterically funny book.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:58 pm Mags

Now that won a “Comment That Made Schnookie Cackle With Glee” Award. Nicely done, Mags!

Now THAT is an award I will cherish. Cackling with glee is the best sort of place to be emotionally.

Speaking of Crunchy, I got quoted in the most Crunchy way possible in my interview (and you lot are in it! W00t!)
on July 2, 2007 at 10:58 pm Patty

Mags is such a good teacher, she may have created a monster!

Thanks again, Mags! Now, I need a little java program real quick that figures the shot quality for Philippe Boucher in day games.

Thanks!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:58 pm Katebits

Aaaaaah, much better. Nice work on the link, Patty and you know, Pommers really is a tall drink of water, isn’t he? He can be my new bimbo, arm candy boyfriend.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:59 pm Heather B.

Look at little Pommerdoodle, biting his lip in thought! “I wonder where that guy who used to wear 23 went.”
on July 2, 2007 at 10:59 pm Steph

I almost bought that book once, Heather! Then I determined that I was broke and didn’t need to buy something just because I went to a bookstore. But now I might have to go look for it again!
on July 2, 2007 at 10:59 pm Earl Sleek

(I am also humbled by Pookie’s use of the term “Keyboe”.)

“Keyboe” is indeed an inspired term, because as soon as I begin to ask what one would look like, all of a sudden I know exactly what a keyboe looks like.
on July 2, 2007 at 10:59 pm Mags

Patty, I am so proud of you :D
on July 2, 2007 at 10:59 pm Katebits

pommerdoodle has forgotten all about the captains already!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:00 pm Patty

It took me a minute to find a picture, because I forgot his name isn’t Pommerdoodle exactly.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:01 pm Meg

Ooh, just added it to my Amazon wishlist, Heather. Thanks for the recommendation. In other book news, goodness do I need to read something cheerful after the last book I read for my monthly book discussion book. So if this is lighthearted I might just skip Amazon and go searching for this at B&N.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:02 pm Earl Sleek

Sorry Kate, but even that Pommer shot was a little gloomy to me. I just couldn’t help thinking “he’s probably watching Briere score right now.”

In other news, I’m too depressing, and I tend to share too often.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:02 pm Katebits

So, I’ll bite. Is a keyboe a keyboard? Is this some sort of new Big Ten Hipster Emporium cook lingo?
on July 2, 2007 at 11:03 pm Mags

Earl, I disagree. He looks “Duuuuuuuuuuh” to me.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:03 pm Katebits

No, Earl, he’s thinking about chasing rabbits in that picture.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:04 pm Schnookie

It took me a minute to find a picture, because I forgot his name isn’t Pommerdoodle exactly.

Mission accomplished!

I’m not even convinced he’s real. Probably an e-character Pookie and Schnookie concocted in order to spice up the comments.

Not to keep harping, but this is so exciting we finally get to talk about our Gerbtard with you all. He last appeared to comment as “Mary Brodeur” on our game diary of Ranger/Sabres Game 3. We were not entirely convinced he was real either.

“Keyboe” is indeed an inspired term, because as soon as I begin to ask what one would look like, all of a sudden I know exactly what a keyboe looks like.

Not only that, but I think I have a pretty good idea now how to play one.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:04 pm Heather B.

Meg and Steph – please read it! Granted, I’m only on the fourth chapter – did I forget to mention that? – but it would have to go downhill fast in order for me to change my recommendation. It’s the perfect remedy for someone who’s depressed about salary caps and free agency.

Sherry, I bought a copy of Money Players and started reading it. It’s completely fascinating but I had to put it away for a few days because it was depressing me in light of the current events.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:05 pm Schnookie

Is a keyboe a keyboard?

Why, Katebits, a keyboe is a keyboard/oboe hybrid. Like a keytar, but more woodwindy.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:06 pm Katebits

I want that book Heather! Where can I buy it in town? I deserve a treat. A happy, non S,PW, treat.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:07 pm Katebits

Why, Katebits, a keyboe is a keyboard/oboe hybrid. Like a keytar, but more woodwindy.

Duh. I can’t believe my imagination failed me on that one! Doesn’t Crunchy feel a little threatened by Jordy’s keyboe stylings?
on July 2, 2007 at 11:08 pm Schnookie

I’m sorry — Crunchy? Threatened by Jordy? I think not. Plus he knows keyboes are SO ’80s. Electric oboes are timeless.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:09 pm Heather B.

I dunno, Kate. You can’t get it at the library though because I have the only copy. Borders in Orchard Park didn’t have it. Does that help?
on July 2, 2007 at 11:11 pm Katebits

I can just see Crunchy’s condescending head shake everytime Jordy picks up his keyboe!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:12 pm Katebits

Oh great, Heather. Just HOG all the books in the library, why don’t cha? :D
on July 2, 2007 at 11:12 pm Pookie

Heather, I read “Tropic of Hockey” and really enjoyed it. I remember reading it on Winter Break out in Arizona, sitting outside in weather that was surprisingly cold for Phoenix. For some reason, that struck me as appropriate reading conditions for that book.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:14 pm Sherry

Sherry, I bought a copy of Money Players and started reading it. It’s completely fascinating but I had to put it away for a few days because it was depressing me in light of the current events.

That is perfectly understandable. Not good timing for that book but it really is a fascinating read.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:14 pm Vinny

Wow all the hockey books.. I got a nice gift card from the public library for being a longtime volunteer…does anyone else have more suggestions for me :D so i can go and splurge on books?
on July 2, 2007 at 11:14 pm Pookie

Oh great, Heather. Just HOG all the books in the library, why don’t cha? :D

I was in such a bad place today at work that when this four year old kid begged me for candy and his grandmother said, “No silly, they don’t have candy at the library, only books”, I said, “Yup. We have figurative candy. Books are candy for your brain.” I probably just turned that kid off reading for life.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:15 pm Heather B.

Pookie, you read this and didn’t recommend it? Geez, thanks a lot! (And don’t tell me it was Schnookie who was there for that discussion because I don’t care!)
on July 2, 2007 at 11:15 pm Mags

Way to go Pookie! :P
on July 2, 2007 at 11:16 pm Earl Sleek

“Books are candy for your brain.”

No books before dinner, now!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:16 pm Pookie

Oh and Crunchy is crazy threatened by Jodry’s keyboe stylin’s. I mean, you’ve seen that picture of Jordy in the “I Might Be the Cutest Kid in the Room”. He came into that party looking totally normal. That picture was taken mere moments after a particularly bad-assed keyboe solo.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:16 pm Heather B.

Wow all the hockey books.. I got a nice gift card from the public library for being a longtime volunteer

Vinny, I sat here for about five minutes wondering why you would need a gift card for the public library. What kind of library do you people have?! But then I figured it out.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:18 pm Meg

You’ve sold me, Heather. And it’s in the library closest to my office so I’m going to check it out during my lunch hour tomorrow.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:19 pm Katebits

“Yup. We have figurative candy. Books are candy for your brain.” I probably just turned that kid off reading for life.

Pookie, my orchestra is constantly doing concert for kids in which we try to convince them that classical music is, um, cool. Sometimes I can literally see their eyes glazing over and I think “Whoops, there goes another one.” We should just stop trying to teach kids anything. :P
on July 2, 2007 at 11:19 pm Sherry

“I Might Be the Cutest Kid in the Room”. He came into that party looking totally normal. That picture was taken mere moments after a particularly bad-assed keyboe solo.

Fun fact, that’s actually the first picture that pops up when you type “Jordan Parise” into Google.

I can imagine that t-shirt does indeed gives Zach fits everytime he sees it.

What kind of library do you people have?! But then I figured it out.

We crazy Canadians make up the free health-care for making you pay to borrow books.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:20 pm Sherry

Okay, that was just a poorly constructed sentence. What I meant to say was that we make up for the free health-care by making you pay to borrow books. Hope that was clear. Maybe I should just sleep.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:20 pm Katebits

That picture was taken mere moments after a particularly bad-assed keyboe solo.

Wow! I had no idea a keyboe in the right hands was so powerful! Heehehe.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:21 pm Heather B.

Ooh, Meg now I’m all nervous that you won’t like it! This is why I never recommend books to people! If you hate it, please tell me you loved it anyway! Exclamation points everywhere!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:21 pm Pookie

Pookie, you read this and didn’t recommend it? Geez, thanks a lot!

Sorry, Heather! I read it a long time ago and sort of forgot about it. Was it Katebits who said she reads a book and then 10 minutes later can’t tell you the plot? Well, I read a book and then 10 minute later forget I read it. Gosh, you’re saying, wouldn’t that be a bit of a liability for a librarian? Yes, yes it is. When people ask me for a recommendation for what to read, I always find a way to convince them to take “The Three Musketeers”. Seriously. It’s the only book I can ever remember. I read tons and tons of historical fiction, right? Not long after I started working at the library someone asked me flat out, “Excuse me, do you know of any good historical fiction?” and I literally said, “Uh… no.” Three hours later I said to myself, “Hello, ‘Lonesome Dove’ much, Pookie?” I’m such a moron.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:22 pm Katebits

Yeah, don’t blame Pookie, Heather. She’s just stupid, like me. We’re cute, but dim. :D
on July 2, 2007 at 11:22 pm Sherry

Well, I read a book and then 10 minute later forget I read it.

I’m bad at forgetting titles. People will ask for a book recommendation and then I’ll start describing the plot and will eventually give away the whole book, which will then defeat the purpose of recommending they read it in the first place.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:22 pm Patty

I said, “Yup. We have figurative candy. Books are candy for your brain.”

Very clever! I probably would have just said, “Bite me.”

Reminds me of when I worked at Blockbuster and a lady came in looking for the movie, Treasure Island. While I was looking it up, she said, proudly, “My son has to do a book report on Treasure Island and I thought it’d be just as good if he saw the movie!”

I almost popped a vein trying not to say, NO IT ISN’T!!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:23 pm Pookie

Schnookie says, vis a vis Jordy’s keyboe solo, “And you should see the rest of the people at that party!”
on July 2, 2007 at 11:23 pm Vinny

Hee Sorry Heather :D. Hahaha so should i brush my teeth (brain? :x) after reading?

What I meant to say was that we make up for the free health-care by making you pay to borrow books.

we do :x? (orwasthatajokeijustreallystupidlydidnotget)
on July 2, 2007 at 11:24 pm Katebits

“And you should see the rest of the people at that party!”

I bet he literally BLEW the mini skirts off of the puck bunnies with his keyboe. At the end of his solo, the whole party was standing there naked and cheering.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:24 pm Vinny

“My son has to do a book report on Treasure Island and I thought it’d be just as good if he saw the movie!”

I almost popped a vein trying not to say, NO IT ISN’T!!

that’s horrible! it’s never the same woman, never! It makes it worse! The teacher’s gonna fail her son :X
on July 2, 2007 at 11:24 pm Meg

Pookie, my orchestra is constantly doing concert for kids in which we try to convince them that classical music is, um, cool.

Kate, I distinctly remember going to at least one BPO for students type concert in middle school. I actually did like classical music, though, and was decidedly not cool.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:25 pm Sherry

It was a joke, Vinny. My poor delivery probably just killed it. I really SHOULD just go to sleep.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:26 pm Mags

I really SHOULD just go to sleep.

Now there’s a plan. (not making Sherry go, but I am yet again fascinated by this lovely thing we call a sunrise. I need a new sleeping pattern)
on July 2, 2007 at 11:26 pm Katebits

Heh, Sherry….I was all, “Dude. You have to pay for book at the library in Canada?! Canada suuuuucks.” I’m glad we cleared that up!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:26 pm Pookie

I almost popped a vein trying not to say, NO IT ISN’T!!

Ha! That’s awesome. Now see, “Treasure Island” is a book I loved; one of the few I’ve read twice. So why don’t ever I ever think to recommend that? It’s even short! (A customer recently said, “I have a book report due tomorrow. Is ‘Moby Dick’ good?” I almost said, “That question is wrong on so many levels.”)
on July 2, 2007 at 11:27 pm Heather B.

I used to work at Blockbuster! That job is what convinced me that people are total morons, completely lacking in taste. “I’m looking for a movie and I can’t remember what it’s called but I think the word house is in the title? Or maybe it’s about a house? Or no, I think there’s a house on the cover? Yeah, do you have any copies of that?”

“Do you have 12 Angry Men? I mean, the other verison?”
“No, it’s checked out, but this one is great. It’s a lot better than the TV version actually.”
“Well… I kind of wanted the other one.”
“Trust me, this one is the best.”
“Yeah, but it’s in black and white? And I don’t really like black and white? I mean, isn’t this like really old?”
on July 2, 2007 at 11:27 pm Pookie

Heh, Sherry….I was all, “Dude. You have to pay for book at the library in Canada?! Canada suuuuucks.” I’m glad we cleared that up!

I was totally thinking the same thing! What little faith we have in Canada’s lending libraries!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:29 pm Pookie

“Yeah, but it’s in black and white? And I don’t really like black and white? I mean, isn’t this like really old?”

Ooooh, that always gets me. X had a hard and fast rule that she hated all movies in b/w. I finally one day said, “Yeah, I hate books with red covers.” I’m not sure she was listening, but it made me feel better.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:29 pm Earl Sleek

I was kind of digging the Canadian system. I mean, book-renting is not just a revenue source, but it also puts some sort of value on reading. Thanks for letting me down with your library ordinariness, Canada.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:29 pm Meg

I have to pay for books all the time at the public library. In fact when I go to take this one out I’m going to have to pay to unblock my card. I actually stopped going to the library because it was cheaper just to buy the books on Amazon rather than pay the inevitable late fees.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:30 pm Vinny

Hahaha yeah so I was just sure we had to pay fines. :X. I live in Canada! So Pookie it’s okay. Apparently I have less faith.

Aww Heather that really sucks… I pray no one at IPB ever has to work at Blockbuster :(
on July 2, 2007 at 11:31 pm Sherry

(not making Sherry go, but I am yet again fascinated by this lovely thing we call a sunrise. I need a new sleeping pattern)

You have more strength than I do. I have to get up early tomorrow to get back to Hamilton in time for work. I love my sleep. And my coffee.

Thanks for letting me down with your library ordinariness, Canada.

Sorry. I guess we’re kind of ordinary and disappointing in general :P
on July 2, 2007 at 11:31 pm Pookie

Thanks for letting me down with your library ordinariness, Canada.

Earl, here’s another CTMPLTH for your mantel!

And on that note, I think it’s time for me to go to bed. I beat Katamari tonight, restoring the Moon to its rightful place. I can rest easy now! I’m stuck in a meeting all morning, so no one be too funny when I’m not around to read it, okay? Good night, all!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:32 pm Patty

Ooh, I hate the, “I don’t like black and white movies” argument. I always say, yeah, when it’s not in color, I just can’t understand what they’re saying!

Another common Blockbuster question:
Do you have that movie? With that guy? And he goes to that place with that girl?

Once (I am not making this up) a girl asked me if we had “Dangerous Lesions.” And she wasn’t kidding.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:33 pm Sherry

Once (I am not making this up) a girl asked me if we had “Dangerous Lesions.” And she wasn’t kidding.

HAHA.

Maybe it was a health documentary of some sort.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:33 pm Heather B.

Meg, I’m with you. After I joked about it I realized my mom probably would’ve loved to get a gift card for the library since I had a habit of keeping books much longer than I was really supposed to. I’m better now though I almost always have some kind of balance on my card (we’re allowed to have up to $5 before we get blocked). But I wrote letters to all the local and state politicians to keep my library system open so I think we’re even for now.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:33 pm Earl Sleek

I beat Katamari tonight, restoring the Moon to its rightful place.

Oooh. Congrats.

Don’t worry about your thumbs. They’ll either recover or adapt.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:35 pm Sherry

I’m better now though I almost always have some kind of balance on my card (we’re allowed to have up to $5 before we get blocked)

In Mississauga, if you don’t use your library card for over 2 years, your account [plus all your late fees] get erased and you can get a new card free of charge :D. If I ever wanted to avoid the late fees, I just borrowed stuff off my brother/mother’s card in the interim.

And on that note, I am heading for bed myself. Kind of disappointing to leave Day 2 of free agency on an Owen Nolan signing, but oh well.

God night everyone!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:35 pm Sherry

^good. Yeah, good time to leave.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:35 pm Earl Sleek

Night, bed-goers!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:36 pm Katebits

Goodnight Pookie! I should think about hitting the hay too. My twenty four hour Poor-Katebits-with-no-sexy-passionate-warrior-a-thon, officially ends in the morning. I’ll still be sad, but it will no longer be an excuse to lounge around all day.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:36 pm Patty

Heather, when did you work for Blockbuster? Did you ever have to call computer support? That’s where I ended up. Although I’ve been gone for a while.

In fact, not to brag or anything, but I recorded all the automated phone stuff. Like, “Blockbuster Computer Support. All our technicians are currently helping other callers. Please hold for the next available technician.”

Or words to that effect.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:36 pm Heather B.

Screwed up titles are the best. I wish I could remember some of the ones I got. I also got all testy about the widescreen/fullscreen issue but I’m perfectly willing to admit that most people probably aren’t quite as passionate on that issue as I am. Yeah, Blockbuster. Don’t really miss it, I have to say.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:37 pm Mags

Goodnight everyone!

Yeah, bed here too. It’s only 1.5 hours till the construction workers come for work again. Dyou think I could make it through the day on that?
on July 2, 2007 at 11:37 pm Vinny

Good night those to bed :D

Sherry – maybe it’s not the last :D i’m hearing Hill be signed with the Wild :X
on July 2, 2007 at 11:40 pm Patty

I also got all testy about the widescreen/fullscreen issue but I’m perfectly willing to admit that most people probably aren’t quite as passionate on that issue as I am.

I am.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:43 pm Patty

G’night to everybody leaving. I’m not far behind…
on July 2, 2007 at 11:43 pm Schnookie

Ah yes. “Dangerous Lesions: The Chris Drury Story”.

And don’t worry, Heather — IPB Manor is just as nitpicky about widescreen/fullscreen. In fact, it makes us rabid with digust when people get them wrong. Grrrr…

Anyway, good night to the people going to bed. I suppose I should pack it in, too. (And maybe with Pookie in a meeting all morning tomorrow I can put in some work on Chasing Sidney while on the clock!)
on July 2, 2007 at 11:44 pm Heather B.

Patty, I haven’t been there for… oh, gosh 5 years or so. I worked myself up to Assistant Store Manager before I realized that I hated customer service. I had a really bad experience with my district manager while covering my manager’s maternity leave and was really tired of the whole thing by the time I left. It was only supposed to be a temporary thing anyway so it was probably a good thing I didn’t stick around. I did call computer support many times since we had The Printer From Hell that was regularly ate all the overnight reports. So we probably talked! :-)
on July 2, 2007 at 11:44 pm Meg

I’m for bed as well. Goodnight all.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:46 pm Heather B.

Goodnight to everyone just abandoning me here!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:48 pm Katebits

Okay. I didn’t go to bed, I just lurked long enough to read Dangerous Lesions: The Chris Drury Story.

MY SEXY, PASSIONATE WARRIOR IS GOOOOONE!
WAAAA-AAAAA. WAAAAAAAAAAA. WAA-AA-AA-AAAAA!
on July 2, 2007 at 11:49 pm Katebits

Okay. Thus ends my childish pity fest.

Thank you.

Goodnight.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:50 pm Patty

Heather, did anybody make you crawl around under the cabinets following cables?

That was me! :D

Actually, I was probably gone by then. I had some good times at BBV, and some really awful ones. :P Most of my current friends are from my BBV days.
on July 2, 2007 at 11:56 pm Heather B.

I did indeed follow a few cables in my day :-)

Actually, one of my very best friends was my manager at Blockbuster and I talk regularly to another former co-worker so I did get some good relationships out of it as well.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:38 am Jordi

No Katebits, MY SEXY PASSIONATE WARRIOR IS GONE.

Come on, Smith? Totally hit it.

Don’t worry about your thumbs. They’ll either recover or adapt.

My thumbs will never recover. The PSP version still makes me scream.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:43 am Jordi

MUTHA. FUCKING BONK.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:25 am Amy

Katebits, if you don’t want to WAAAAAAAH again about your s, p w leaving the team, don’t read the Buffalo News this morning. There’s a horribly great article about how the Sabres screwed the pooch on the Drury deal. The article makes you really want to throw people off a cliff. (Although the article with player reactions kind of makes up for it).
on July 3, 2007 at 8:28 am Mags

Jordi, all that rage. Not healthy.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:35 am Earl Sleek

Yeah Jordi, what’s the matter? Depressed because it’s Pronger Day?
on July 3, 2007 at 8:38 am Mags

Earl, I have it on good authority that she was pissed off BEFORE I told her about Pronger day.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:41 am american oil

Clearly you have all been completely crushed without my appearance here at IPB. Yeah. I can tell.

I had to get up at 3:30 this morning just so I could get through all the comments (I know better then to skip them or 2 days from now some joke will pop up and I will be like “what the fuck are they talking about).

Sunday I was busy driving across the friggin state of Washington, and contemplating if I really cared what strangers thought of me when we got stuck in stopped traffic in the middle of BFE and I had to pee. All I could see was grass about 4 inches tall, and I knew that wasn’t going to cover my ASS. (no worries, luckily I came to a tiny shithole, whoops town to find a restroom).

Yesterday I was forced to actually work (I came in and my huge U shaped desk didn’t have a space to write anywhere on it) I had to actually clean my desk and work. Damn work.

So I am now back on track to annoy you all again. As far as Black Sunday (UFA day) I have yet to fully process it. As an Oilers fan I live in a perpetual state of “Holy Fuck Lowe, did what?”. The first couple of times I felt violated. Now, it is just uncomfortable. I am, however, glad that I missed all the Sabers shit. Sorry gals, but I am just not a very good “sympathtic” person. Welcome to being a fan. Welcome to what happens to the rest of us, you just have to say “Fuck that sucks.” and then get over it. Unfortunately continual harping on how bad you have it will make the rest of us that have taken HUGE player hits in the past (repetitively) really hate Buffalo and the attitude of their fans.

Who let the fucktard it? Oh wait….Gerbtard? Whatever.

It is 5:40 in the morning and I guess I should take a shower and get functional. Glad to be back (not sure if you are glad to see me back)

Oh BTW, PP is better, she is currently at my parents for the next two weeks! You would think I would have a life since I have two weeks free…….um…..yeah……not so much.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:41 am Earl Sleek

Good work, Jordi! Being pissed off is a good way to earn your way into Bailey’s promises.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:55 am american oil

I am back……the thread is dead…….
on July 3, 2007 at 9:01 am Jordi

Baileys is kinda weak Sleek. Not a good couple of days for me.

Fuck this I have no strength to do anything anymore.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:10 am Earl Sleek

Baileys is kinda weak Sleek.

Yeah, if it were up to me I’d be paying out in Jack Daniels, but what can you do?

Not a good couple of days for me.

Hang in there, Jordi! (Damn, I’m no good at this consoling thing. Hold on a second, I’ll go call Bluboo.)
on July 3, 2007 at 9:14 am Meg

american oil, if you think we’re bad, you should see The Buffalo News. You would think that the captains leaving was worse than the bankruptcy and that the Sabres are going to transform over night into the Blackhawks. ;)
on July 3, 2007 at 9:15 am Sherry

Baileys is kinda weak Sleek

You take that back!

Anyways, I’m taking over Free Agency live-blogging duties at Bleu, Blanc et Rouge so I might not be here as much
on July 3, 2007 at 9:17 am Earl Sleek

Make sure to mention some happy memories about Brad May, Sherry!
on July 3, 2007 at 9:20 am american oil

Ok…so remember when Mags said she did that hockey article and she mentioned IPB? Well she did and it was sweet. However the BEST part of the article was at the end when she was asked if she had any closing comments. What makes this even more hysterical is that the hack job writer (and he did a hack job) thought she was being very serious and determined with her quote….however only you all will find this as completely hillarious as I did. The final comments that Mags gave him was:

“I love hockey. I would sacrifice a lot for it. But more importantly I want to be the best pro goalie I can possibly be. If I end up at the top because someone quits, I don’t care. I just want to be there.”
on July 3, 2007 at 9:22 am Sherry

Make sure to mention some happy memories about Brad May, Sherry!

Happy? Memories?
on July 3, 2007 at 9:24 am Meg

Mags, that just might be the best interview comment ever.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:27 am Mags

Thank you, I’ll be here all week.

All the credit to you guys though. I couldn’t have done it without you.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:50 am Schnookie

Mags, that interview comment was a FANTASTIC way to start my morning! Nicely done!!!
on July 3, 2007 at 9:55 am Katebits

“I love hockey. I would sacrifice a lot for it. But more importantly I want to be the best pro goalie I can possibly be. If I end up at the top because someone quits, I don’t care. I just want to be there.”

Mags you are a hero! You managed to demurely deliver one of IPB’s most beloved jokes in an actual interview without sounding like a raving lunatic! I declare today Mags Day! All hail Mags! MAgs! Mags! Mags!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:00 am Schnookie

Mags Day it is!!!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:02 am Sherry

Mags Day it is!!!

I agree :) Better than that other day…
on July 3, 2007 at 10:04 am Schnookie

Oh man, Sherry, are you ever right!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:10 am Mags

Mags Day? *stunned silence*

Are you guys using my Crunchy stylings to forget about Prongs? Hey, that’s cool.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:12 am Heather B.

Amy, I don’t know what to think about this Drury contract thing. Every reporter at the Buffalo News had this info but no one mentioned it at the press conference yesterday? I’m disinclined to believe the story is quite as simple as what they’re presenting.

Loved the article about the players though. Everyone is sad and distraught and then the money quote from Crunchy: “It’s a hard time for a lot of guys, but [Drury and Briere] better hope they didn’t teach us too much because they’re going to have to contend against us. Leadership is changing hands on our team, but the attitude still will be there. I’m going to make sure to the best of my abilities to keep them in our rear-view mirror.”

I think the quotes from him and Campbell are a good sign of who the leadership is going to be.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:12 am Sherry

Are you guys using my Crunchy stylings to forget about Prongs? Hey, that’s cool.

Personally, it doesn’t take much for me to willingly forget about Prongs.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:12 am Heather B.

Oh, and Mags. Bravo! You were absolutely the best interviewee you could be and we applaud you for it.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:13 am Mags

Aaaaand, she cut me down. Point taken Sherry, point taken.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:16 am Sherry

Aaaaand, she cut me down. Point taken Sherry, point taken.

Gah! No, Mags! that wasn’t my intention. I was merely just trying to convey my great disinterest/dislike for Prongs.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:16 am Schnookie

I’m going to make sure to the best of my abilities to keep them in our rear-view mirror.

I love that Crunchy manages to deploy a bit of the “Best [blank] I can be” in trying to sound all menacing and tough. Hee! He’s going to be the best vengeance-wreaker he can possibly be next season.

Mags, what’s all this about Prongs? (I have to say, except when he’s playing in the SCF, he is 100% off my radar.)
on July 3, 2007 at 10:18 am Katebits

Crunchy can’t wait to stop Briere in a shoot-out! Heh. Go get em’ Crunchy!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:19 am Meg

I’m disinclined to believe the story is quite as simple as what they’re presenting.

Heather, I am as well. Not that I’m ever inclined to believe Quinn, but I’m also not big on anonymous sources that say exactly what the Buffalo News wants to hear and are published in articles that have Gleason’s byline attached. I think BfloBlog has a good take on it:
http://bfloblog.com/?p=2621

Also, good news on Numminen! I know there are many others who will be less excited about this than me, but he’s easily one of my favorite Sabres, so I’ll be very happy if he signs.

Mags, Pronger or not, Mags day can only be a happy day.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:21 am Katebits

Yeah, I just wrote a big old uninformed blah-blah-blah screw Bucky comment on Bflo-blog. i should probably stop doing that, but I couldn’t resist. I just hate that guy.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:22 am Heather B.

Meg, I was glad to see Numminen will be back as well. I wouldn’t mind seeing him handle a little less ice time, but a little veteran presence never hurt anyone and I really don’t think he was as bad as some fans have presented.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:22 am Mags

And she totally went for it. Sorry Sherry :P

Schnookie, my roomie decided during the SCF that she is a big fan of Prongsie, so I am constantly reminded of him. Even after I tried, to no avail, to explain to her the extent of his douchey-ness.

HAPPY DAY! I am celebrating with donuts and diet coke. Yup, the diet of champions.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:24 am Katebits

Mags! Mags! Mags!

Let’s just be the best celebrators of Mag’s Day that we can be guys! Life can’t just be about giving straight interviews, sometimes you need to throw in a few inside jokes!

Mags! Mags! Mags!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:26 am Meg

I wouldn’t mind seeing him handle a little less ice time, but a little veteran presence never hurt anyone and I really don’t think he was as bad as some fans have presented.

Neither do I. I also don’t think Paetsch was as good as some fans have presented. And normally I’d be all, “oh, these people have been fans much longer than I have and get to see more of the games than I do,” but it’s pretty clear that Ruff agrees with me.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:27 am Sherry

And she totally went for it. Sorry Sherry :P

I think we’ve all learned from the shopping cart incident that it is tremendously easy to make me feel guilty.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:28 am Heather B.

The Buffalo News Sabres blog won’t post my comment because it thinks it’s spam! I think it just realizes I’m not automatically buying what they’re selling.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:30 am Schnookie

With regards to the Buffalo News story today… *Pained sigh* This is Edmonton v. Smyth all over again. Just… well, you all won’t listen to my recommendation to ignore it, will you? :P
on July 3, 2007 at 10:31 am Mags

I think we’ve all learned from the shopping cart incident that it is tremendously easy to make me feel guilty.

Evidently I hadn’t, because I’d already forgotten about the whole shopping cart thing. Sorry!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:32 am Schnookie

Mags, for shame! NEVER forget the shopping cart incident! Or at least the delightfully funny thing we learned from it — that Sherry has the quickest-to-guilt conscience on Earth!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:33 am Meg

No, Schnookie, it’s like a car accident–we have to look. But that doesn’t mean we’re buying what the news is selling.

And Heather, I think it’s all those porno links that you’re including that are messing up your comment. They have to keep Bucky away from those things y’know.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:34 am Mags

Schnookie, guilt does not work on me. Therapy has taught me nothing is my fault.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:35 am Amy

This is Edmonton v. Pronger all over again.

Minus the tawdry stories of who was (allegedly) schtupping who and whether there was evidence of it.

Mags, great quote in your interview. :::claps:::
on July 3, 2007 at 10:35 am Schnookie

And Heather, I think it’s all those porno links that you’re including that are messing up your comment.

Heather’s terrible about that stuff!

And I totally understand the having to watch the ridiculousness of all that crap unfolding in the Buffalo News. It’s very hard to turn away from that sort of thing! :-)
on July 3, 2007 at 10:37 am Heather B.

Schnookie, I keep saying I’m going to ignore it, but people keeping sending me links and emails and asking me what I think and for some reason, “They’re gone. They’re not coming back. Let’s move on,” isn’t what they’re looking for. As the writer of a Sabres blog I have to be informed, right?

It’s terrible because most of me is “This is stupid, I don’t care, everyone’s right, everyone’s wrong, and I’m not reading anything else.” But a little tiny part of me is all “I’m just going to take a little peek…”
on July 3, 2007 at 10:37 am Meg

Although I have to add that I think this is far less tragic than the whole Pronger mess, because good though Briere and Drury are, they’re not the difference-makers that he is. Even if they are paid more. I just think forwards, however good, don’t change the game the way a defenseman like that does.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:38 am Schnookie

This is Edmonton v. Pronger all over again.

Sorry — I meant Edmonton v. Smyth. Where it was all just about the money and “lack of respect” and two sides not being able to reach an agreement then having their respective camps run out and try to pin the bulk of the “blame” on the other side.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:41 am Meg

Ah, yes, Edmonton v. Smyth makes more sense. I think that was worse for the fans though, because of how it came after the Pronger thing. And in the midst of a bad season that was about to really fall off the cliff. And now before the Smith thing. I think Buffalo fans might be doing the most outraged whining, but there are so many other fans that have it worse.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:45 am Mags

Edmonton is swiss cheese at the moment. I’m wondering how they’re going to come out of the summer.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:47 am Earl Sleek

Mags, what’s all this about Prongs? (I have to say, except when he’s playing in the SCF, he is 100% off my radar.)

Oh, Schnookie, isn’t your calendar marked with July 3rd as Pronger Day? Anyway, now it’s been a full year of Pronger with no defections.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:47 am Schnookie

It’s terrible because most of me is “This is stupid, I don’t care, everyone’s right, everyone’s wrong, and I’m not reading anything else.” But a little tiny part of me is all “I’m just going to take a little peek…”

No, no, I totally understand! And yes, you should be keeping yourself apprised because you’re a Sabres blogger! (Meanwhile, as the responsible Devils blogger I am, I haven’t bothered reading any of the Jersey papers talking about Gomez and Rafalski. A) Because I really don’t want to hear more quotes from Gomer about how excited he is to be a Ranger, and B) because I really don’t give a fig what the Jersey columnists think about Lou. Some of them love him and will praise him for not losing his mind and giving Gomer and Raffie that kind of money, and some of them have an axe to grind with him and will always, always, always criticize whatever he does. So whether it’s letting Gomer go through free agency or firing the copy boy for making too many color copies, some writers are going to be cracking out their poison pens no matter what.)

Although I have to add that I think this is far less tragic than the whole Pronger mess, because good though Briere and Drury are, they’re not the difference-makers that he is. Even if they are paid more. I just think forwards, however good, don’t change the game the way a defenseman like that does.

And furthermore, the Sabres already had almost too much depth at forward. In the near future, if they’d signed Briere and Drury, they’d have had to start unloading some of those kids. So it’s even less of a dramatic loss to the Sabres, since, well, forward is kind of a position of strength for them as it stands. (On the flip side of that coin, the Devils can just sort of shrug off the loss of Rafalski on the blue line, but losing Gomez leaves a giant hole.)
on July 3, 2007 at 10:48 am Meg

I feel like at this point, Edmonton’s got too many holes to fill so they might as well spend another year rebuilding and hope these young players and draft picks start to pan out. And from that perspective the Smith deal does make sense.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:49 am Schnookie

Oh, Schnookie, isn’t your calendar marked with July 3rd as Pronger Day?

Ah yes, of course. How could I have forgotten how hard my world was rocked on this day last year? (Wait, Pronger… that name sounds familiar. Does he play in the Western Conference?)
on July 3, 2007 at 10:50 am Schnookie

(*In a tiny whisper* Meg, I know it’s unpopular to say that sort of thing, but I agree with you about Edmonton and the Smith trade.)
on July 3, 2007 at 10:52 am Heather B.

because I really don’t give a fig what the Jersey columnists think about Lou. Some of them love him and will praise him for not losing his mind and giving Gomer and Raffie that kind of money, and some of them have an axe to grind with him and will always, always, always criticize whatever he does.

That makes so much sense because I know exactly what every Buffalo News reporters is going to say (“We hate Darcy and think he’s stoopid”) and I read it anway which leads to even more frustration because I like Darcy and can’t understand why everyone is acting like this is the end of the world. Gah, I really need to move on.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:53 am Meg

Well what makes sense logically doesn’t always feel ok emotionally so I can totally understand why people are as upset as they are about the Smith deal. It’s easy to say that it’ll be ok as an outsider, not so easy when it’s your favorite player being traded and to a team as loathsome as the Flyers no less. So I get that.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:55 am Mags

Meg, you have a very good point there.

I haven’t been reading anything about the Devils. At this point, what’s done is done, and what are we going to do about it? Lou has a plan. I’m sure.

Besides, ONE MORE mention of how HAPPY Gomer is about where he’s at and I’m going to do something drastic.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:56 am american oil

Hey…..let me just say…..Bah.

As and oilers fan….this isn’t my first anal probe.

Rebuilding? Shit, we are always rebuilding. Keep a semi-decent team??? Ha…we scoff at that idea.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:57 am Schnookie

Meg, I agree 100% with that, too! Because when, as fans, are we ever logical? That’s not the point of being a fan! And if it were the Devils crumbling in one season from Stanley Cup Finalist to “Gutted and Rebuilding”, I’d be crushed. But I’d hope those on the outside would be able to say, “Hm, that move kind of makes sense,” because, well, it would at least be nice to know the casual observer could glean some hint of logic and reason from what I’d be seeing as madness.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:58 am Schnookie

I haven’t been reading anything about the Devils. At this point, what’s done is done, and what are we going to do about it? Lou has a plan. I’m sure.

And if he doesn’t have a plan? Well, there’s nothing I can do about that, either! (And seriously, it’s July 3. There’s a long way to go before April.)
on July 3, 2007 at 10:59 am american oil

Oh and Mags was all worried that you might not like that quote……..

Happy Mags Day!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:01 am Mags

And if he doesn’t have a plan? Well, there’s nothing I can do about that, either! (And seriously, it’s July 3. There’s a long way to go before April.)

Yup. We’ll get there. I have faith in our team. We might not win the big prize, but we’ll damn sure try.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:03 am Sherry

That’s not the point of being a fan! And if it were the Devils crumbling in one season from Stanley Cup Finalist to “Gutted and Rebuilding”, I’d be crushed

Same with me. I suppose I’m ‘lucky’ that my GM up until this point has been too gun-shy to do any ‘gutting’.

Lou has a plan. I’m sure

Of course he does, he didn’t hire that new copy boy for no reason you know! (SHAKE THE ORGANIZATION TO ITS VERY CORE!)
on July 3, 2007 at 11:07 am Mags

The copy boy thing is so shocking I’d already forgotten it happened. I see a trend. I forget something, Sherry reminds me. So nice that Sherry.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:07 am Schnookie

Yup. We’ll get there. I have faith in our team. We might not win the big prize, but we’ll damn sure try.

Exactly! And as John on ILWT pointed out yesterday, the Devils have been written off (and Lou’s mismanagement scoffed at) for the last two season. And let’s see how that turned out… Hm, Atlantic Division title, aaaand… oh yeah! A second Atlantic Division title. And there was Scott Burnside at ESPN yesterday saying the Devils will be a lottery team next season.

Pookie and I have a theory on the Devils mentality that comes into play here. See, if everyone just picks them to finish somewhere between 4th and 8th in the Eastern Conference (and no lower than 2nd in the Atlantic), that’s exactly what they’ll do. But the second they get written off these guys get huge chips on their shoulders and start doing crazy, unexpected things like winning lots of games. Looking back at the meat of their “dynasty” years (1995-2001), the years they finished first in the division (or conference) they flamed out in the playoffs. The years they finished second, and everyone picked the Flyers to beat them, they won the Cup. I keep wondering when the hockey media is going to learn to just tell the Devils they’re a very nice hockey team so they’ll go away. Crowing about how sucky they are only makes them angry. And no one wants to have to face Marty Brodeur who thinks he has something to prove.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:09 am Schnookie

That copy boy thing is going to be the difference maker. When everyone looks back at what went into building the 2007-2008 Stanley Cup Champions, they’re all going to be pointing the copy boy.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:11 am Mags

Agreed on all counts. I’ve only been around the Devils fandom for 6 years now, but even I can see that.

I suspect we’re all set for Marty Anger next year. What with his being annoyed with Gomer’s defection and the (momentary) decline of True Devil-dom.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:12 am Mags

the 2007-2008 Stanley Cup Champions

Careful what you wish for.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:14 am Schnookie

I suspect we’re all set for Marty Anger next year.

You know, I hadn’t really thought about that! I kind of thought since he finally broke the single-season wins record, he’d be a bit more relaxed next year, but you’re probably right. We can thank Gomer for giving Marty some new ammunition! (And remember what happened last time a big-money free agent left the Devils for the Rangers. Bobby Holik. In ‘02-’03.)

the 2007-2008 Stanley Cup Champions

Careful what you wish for.

I’m being a realist. It’s not going to happen this year.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:17 am american oil

All I know is the Oilers are out. Sorry Earl but I don’t see a duck-peat either.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:18 am american oil

I expect Lowe to contact PP here shortly since he seems to like to deal in Prospects instead of players……….
on July 3, 2007 at 11:20 am Mags

Schnookie, I’m just speculating. I sure hope I’m right though. And I know. It isn’t going to happen next year. Just a feeling you know?
on July 3, 2007 at 11:20 am Schnookie

a.oil, this is so your chance to cash in on all those hours of practices and driving to and fro for games… You’ll be making back all that money you’ve spent on ice time and equipment when PP hits the pros!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:20 am Heather B.

But the second they get written off these guys get huge chips on their shoulders and start doing crazy, unexpected things like winning lots of games.

I’m hoping that’s what we get this year. Not a Cup (cue Buffalo: BUT WHAT GOOD IS IT WITHOUT A CUP?!?!?!) but a scrappy, tough, big-hearted little team. I hope Crunchy is calling all his teammates right now and saying, “Can you believe this? These assholes think we suck now!”
on July 3, 2007 at 11:23 am american oil

Yes….well only after Lowe trades her as soon as she has any value……I mean really….when has he actually kept a decent player? Then the Flyers can pay her an obscene amount of money to play for them and my nightmere will be complete! Gah.

“Can you believe this? These assholes think we suck now!”

Actually we were pretty sure of that when you failed to show up and play the Sens.

Sorry.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:23 am Schnookie

It isn’t going to happen next year. Just a feeling you know?

The best part about being really confident the Devils aren’t going to win the Cup next year is that it makes me eternally hopeful. Because the only years during the dynasty (really that’s a dumb term for it, but hey, I’ll use it anyway) I was positive they weren’t winning anything were 2000 and 2003. So there you go! Good feelings can abound as they look like a lost cause this year!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:24 am american oil

Wait…I was referencing the TEAM not Crunchy…he was actually the only one that appeared.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:26 am Sherry

The best part about being really confident the Devils aren’t going to win the Cup next year is that it makes me eternally hopeful.

I hear ya’. I’m all about keeping my expectations low. When the Sens were slumping in December I was pretty certain we weren’t going to make the playoffs, let alone the Cup Finals. Of course, once we did I was so sure that it was destined, so that experience has taught me to be better cynical, pessimistic and safe than hopeful and sorry.

Actually we were pretty sure of that when you failed to show up and play the Sens.

Zing!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:28 am Heather B.

Actually we were pretty sure of that when you failed to show up and play the Sens.

Yeah, well now we’ve cut loose the dead weight of Drury and Briere! They were holding us back!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:28 am Mags

Actually we were pretty sure of that when you failed to show up and play the Sens.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Oil is in the house!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:28 am Meg

Yes….well only after Lowe trades her as soon as she has any value……I mean really….when has he actually kept a decent player?

Hemsky? No?

Actually we were pretty sure of that when you failed to show up and play the Sens.

If they get to the ECF even when they suck, I’d be willing to take that.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:29 am Mags

Yes….well only after Lowe trades her as soon as she has any value……I mean really….when has he actually kept a decent player?

Hemsky? No?

Don’t say that! Lowe might catch on and then we’ll REALLY lose Steph.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:29 am Schnookie

I’m hoping that’s what we get this year. Not a Cup (cue Buffalo: BUT WHAT GOOD IS IT WITHOUT A CUP?!?!?!) but a scrappy, tough, big-hearted little team. I hope Crunchy is calling all his teammates right now and saying, “Can you believe this? These assholes think we suck now!”

I honestly think the worst thing to happen to that particular collection of guys Buffalo was skating last year was that they felt entitled. They were so good so early in the season, and the rest of the East fell so far behind, that the entire stretch from November to April was just, like, their coronation. All anyone had to say about them was fawning praise, and “let’s annoint the Sabres!” But I think they really are a scrappy group of guys, and the fact that they’re going to be written off, to some extent, will really help them. Furthermore, how can they not take some sort of personal umbrage at the way the city has responded to losing Briere and Drury? I mean, suddenly, after a year of being told they’re ALL amazingly great, all the fans (and media) are going, “This team is just a pile of PUKE without those two guys.” Yeah, I think the Sabres are going to be a more formidably mentally tough team this time around.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:31 am Earl Sleek

Sorry Earl but I don’t see a duck-peat either.

Hey, it could happen or maybe it won’t. I’m not a strong believer in predictions, other than the fact that I’m fairly sure Pahlsson will score every time I do a gameday prediction.

Yeah, now that Selanne and Niedermayer look to be replaced by Bertuzselanne and Schneidermayer, that’s definitely a downgrade. But it’s not horrible, especially since the rest of the team stays intact.

So far, the only NHL team that’s picked up any of Anaheim’s cup rings is Boston, who got occasional fourth-liner Shawn Thornton.

I’m not calling repeat (heck, I never called for the first cup), but I’m not terrified about next year, either. As always, we’ll see how it plays out.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:32 am Schnookie

When the Sens were slumping in December I was pretty certain we weren’t going to make the playoffs, let alone the Cup Finals. Of course, once we did I was so sure that it was destined, so that experience has taught me to be better cynical, pessimistic and safe than hopeful and sorry.

I hear that! The Devils taught me a bitter, bitter lesson in 2001, when not only was I positive they were going to win that SCF, but the Devs went into G6 AT HOME up 3-2 in the series. Talk about an anal probe.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:37 am Sherry

Waffledave from BBer says that his source says Souray is close to signing with the Rangers.

Somebody tender Lundqvist! Quick!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:38 am Mags

Waffledave from BBer says that his source says Souray is close to signing with the Rangers.

No way. No fucking way.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:39 am Schnookie

Waffledave from BBer says that his source says Souray is close to signing with the Rangers.

Wait, what??? But I thought the Rangers had holes defensively. This won’t help them at all!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:39 am Heather B.

There are a lot of rumors going around about things breaking down in the lockerroom in addition to all the crazy high expectations and early season success. Granted, they are just rumors but it’s enough that I’m really curious to see how the team functions next season without Chris and Danny around.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:40 am Mags

Wait, what??? But I thought the Rangers had holes defensively. This won’t help them at all!

DON’T TELL THEM THAT! LET THEM DO IT.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:42 am Schnookie

Granted, they are just rumors but it’s enough that I’m really curious to see how the team functions next season without Chris and Danny around.

I think it will only make them stronger. I mean, imagine how Pommerdoodle is just wriggling with excitment at the thought of showing off what a great team leader he is! I can only hope the guys in Buffalo’s room do what the Devils did during the ‘02-’03 season, when, after big wins, they’d say sarcastically, “Oh man, if only we still had Bobby Holik here! We might be able to win these games!” (Have I mentioned here how much I loved that incarnation of the Devils? That team was AWESOMELY lovable.)
on July 3, 2007 at 11:43 am american oil

Really though, I am a big believer in “heart” that makes a winning team. Very few of the greats in hockey were heraled in the beginning. Each NHL player is out there because they have skill and talent (some more then others) but the ones that become great, do so because they have heart. No team is truely “down and out” (ok, so Preds, but that is because someone took their heart)…….

Just my take.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:43 am Schnookie

DON’T TELL THEM THAT! LET THEM DO IT.

Hee!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:44 am american oil

um….ok…so maybe just me…..I have to tell myself something every year to convince myself to cheer for the Oilers. :)
on July 3, 2007 at 11:44 am Sherry

It’s just a rumour though, and unfortunately I don’t think waffledave’s source has a rating system for reliability. Man, that’d be hilarious though. In a sort of ‘I have more reasons to hate the Rangers’ kind of way.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:45 am Schnookie

No team is truely “down and out”

So true, a.oil! And so hard for us all to remember when it’s July and we’re handing out championships on paper. (Although I suppose it should be pointed out most people gave the Ducks the Cup when they landed Pronger last year, so, uh… I guess sometimes those paper championships actually come true. BUT NOT THIS YEAR, DAMMIT!) I mean, think about it: there are still an awful lot of injuries Philly’s going to have to cope with before the end of next season.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:46 am Meg

I can only hope the guys in Buffalo’s room do what the Devils did during the ‘02-’03 season, when, after big wins, they’d say sarcastically, “Oh man, if only we still had Bobby Holik here! We might be able to win these games!” (Have I mentioned here how much I loved that incarnation of the Devils? That team was AWESOMELY lovable.)

That truly is awesome.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:46 am american oil

Yeah….like all the players getting hit with shit the fans throw at them……
on July 3, 2007 at 11:46 am Schnookie

Man, that’d be hilarious though. In a sort of ‘I have more reasons to hate the Rangers’ kind of way.

It would also be hilarious in a sort of “Wow, I think I actually have enough cash in my wallet right now to be able to tender Lundqvist an offer the Rangers wouldn’t be able to match” way!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:46 am Vinny

Let them sign souray :X HEHEHE my armchair GMness says that if they do so at anything more than five mil, they’re losing prucha they’re losing avery and unless shanahan signs for under 3 they’re losing shanahan too :D

SOMEONE GIVE LUNDQVIST AN OFFER SHEET :D
on July 3, 2007 at 11:48 am Heather B.

Do you think the Rangers even remember that they haven’t signed the most important player on their team yet?

I think it will only make them stronger. I mean, imagine how Pommerdoodle is just wriggling with excitment at the thought of showing off what a great team leader he is!

I agree. The guys who are left all came up together and seem very close-knit. If one of them gets a chip on his shoulder, they all will. Forget what I said eariler! Stanley Cup or Bust!!!!!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:52 am Mags

Do you think the Rangers even remember that they haven’t signed the most important player on their team yet?

Is that a rhetorical question? Because I think you know the answer to that one.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:52 am american oil

If I were a pre-Black Sunday Ranger I would be pissed at all the money going out and how long term that money is because I would know that I was fucked at being re-signed or if I was even tendered and offer to re-sign it could never be at my deserved market value. So pretty much those guys are playing with the expectation to be traded or go UFA. What is that going to do for the mentality?????
on July 3, 2007 at 11:53 am Schnookie

Do you think the Rangers even remember that they haven’t signed the most important player on their team yet?

The Rangers are probably like, “What are you talking about? We got DRURY! and GOMEZ! and would like to get SOURAY!. That’s a pretty good chunk of the big-name players. What on earth do you mean when you say there’s someone more important than them?” I mean, this is Glen Sather we’re talking about.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:54 am Vinny

Hee well. One or two of them have a NTC NMC. But I’m pretty sure all the RFAs are looking at themselves annd going ‘i’m pretty damn sure I can get more on the open market’
and will take themselves to arbitration!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:54 am american oil

Not that I am not giggling in glee watching the Rangers so completely fuck themselves. Seriously, it is like they are screwing Paris Hilton without protection.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:56 am Earl Sleek

Forget what I said eariler! Stanley Cup or Bust!!!!!

What are you going to do with your bust?
on July 3, 2007 at 11:57 am american oil

What are you going to do with your bust?

Get it reduced.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:58 am Schnookie

What are you going to do with your bust?

ZING!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:58 am Mags

Rangers are talking to Shanny and Lundy, but it appears Lundy wants a long term thing. What with the Rangers only have 13 mill left to spend on 5 players, we’ll see how this pans out.

OFFER SHEET PEOPLE! Do it or I will slap you like Shiva.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:58 am Sherry

Get it reduced.

Can’t say I have that problem.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:00 pm Heather B.

What are you going to do with your bust?

That’s for me to know and Henrik to find out during his first 2 minutes in the PPB. (Tally-ho!)
on July 3, 2007 at 12:00 pm Vinny

Heee.. esp if they want souray they have lesss :D

I mean I know the Rangers are “contending” but hehehe if Souray signs for less than 5 mil he’s either an idiot or montreal will eat him alive :D>
on July 3, 2007 at 12:01 pm Meg

Get it reduced.

Can’t say I have that problem.

Nor do I. But as I’m not the one saying “cup or bust” I figure that I don’t have to worry about that.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:01 pm Mags

Montreal is going to eat him alive anyway.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:04 pm Earl Sleek

I suppose it should be pointed out most people gave the Ducks the Cup when they landed Pronger last year, so, uh… I guess sometimes those paper championships actually come true.

Yup, though it should be noted that a certain publication still managed to look like an idiot while picking Anaheim to win it all.

Uh, if it’s not obvious from the post itself, the article talks about the Ducks forcing Edmonton to a G7 loss, when in actuality the series in question only lasted 5 mostly-painful games.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:07 pm Mags

Everyone leaves momentarily to read Earl’s post.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:08 pm Schnookie

Oh, Earl, thanks for giving me a reason today to laugh at Mike “Please For The Sake Of Hockey Don’t Let The Devils Ever Win Anything Again” Brophy. He. Makes. Me. So. MAD!!!!
on July 3, 2007 at 12:09 pm andrew

“That’s for me to know and Henrik to find out during his first 2 minutes in the PPB. (Tally-ho!)”

HIIIIYYYYYOOOOO! Good one Heather.

Catching up:

Glen Sather is an inbred mouth breather and Lundqvist should be tendered an offer. For sure.

The Sabres are a much better team when they’re playing as “the underdog”. When they have a chip on their shoulder, or something to prove, they seem to step up their game. So good luck Drury and Briere, see ya 4 times apiece next year.

And good morning to all!
on July 3, 2007 at 12:12 pm Schnookie

Good morning, andrew!
on July 3, 2007 at 12:15 pm Mags

Ok, I’m off for a while. I’ll be back in 2-3 hours! Don’t explode ok.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:17 pm andrew

How are we today Schnookie?

I read earlier that we have an Official IPB Mascot, The Gerbtard! How cook! We can put him on the roster, right next to PJ.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:17 pm Heather B.

I just really like the idea of the Rangers showing up for the season opener and THEN realizing they have no goalie. “Drury, you can play goal, right? Get in there, kid!”
on July 3, 2007 at 12:17 pm Schnookie

Mags, we’ll try to get by.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:18 pm andrew

“I just really like the idea of the Rangers showing up for the season opener and THEN realizing they have no goalie.”

Maybe they should have traded for Volchenkov.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:20 pm Heather B.

Maybe they should have traded for Volchenkov.

“Souray, you’re a defensemen, right? Get in there and defend that goal!”
on July 3, 2007 at 12:22 pm Schnookie

andrew, I think the Gerbtard is, like, the Official IPB Evil Twin Mascot. Because he’s like PJ but with a sinister goatee. Not at all cute.

And thanks for asking, we’re doing fine today! No one being too assy yet, besides me. (Although oil’s been in fine, feisty form today! Mee-ow, oil! :P)

Heather, the Rangers will get to training camp and Renney will go to Slats and say very mildly, “We’re missing a goalie.” Slats will splutter around his cigar, “What are you talking about, man? Are you INSANE? I’ve given you all the pieces! Look at this payroll! Now go out and win, dammit!” So then Renney will mince his way back to the ice and stand there with that pinched, this-isn’t-my-fault-look on his face and just wait to be fired. And maybe then Slats will bring Bryan Trottier back.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:26 pm Earl Sleek

I just really like the idea of the Rangers showing up for the season opener and THEN realizing they have no goalie. “Drury, you can play goal, right? Get in there, kid!”

Yes, they will hold an elaborate press conference and have a ceremonial puck flip to determine the goaltender-of-record for the night.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:32 pm Sherry

Maybe they should have traded for Volchenkov.

[Hisses] you ain’t getting him!
on July 3, 2007 at 12:32 pm andrew

So I thought I was okay with the losses endured by Sabres yesterday. Then I went home and had a drink. I think my subconcious hasn’t quite let go of the sadness yet, because I ended up getting loaded to gills on a bottle of cheap rum.

I was sitting at the kitchen table with the missus trying to calculate the sq. footage of the backyard, for ground cover. I could barely see straight and I found myself muttering obscenities at ‘those who will not be named’ over and over. I guess it’s just too soon.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:33 pm Schnookie

I think the Rangers have set a dangerous precedent with this ceremonial puck-flipping. Soon they’re going to have to use it to solve all kinds of problems, like “Which ECHL-caliber D-man on the roster that night is going to have to dress up as Jagr to distract the angry bookies coming to collect on his debts” and “Who has to oil Drury’s Little League glove”.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:34 pm andrew

“Maybe they should have traded for Volchenkov.”

“[Hisses] you ain’t getting him!”

But Sherry….he used to be a goalie! The Rangers are going to need him! (actually, I would love to see SJ or BUF get him. I think he’s my favorite Senator.)
on July 3, 2007 at 12:34 pm Amy

I mean, imagine how Pommerdoodle is just wriggling with excitment at the thought of showing off what a great team leader he is!

I am Pommerdoodle, hear me yip?

I have a question. Who or what is a Gerbtard?
on July 3, 2007 at 12:37 pm Sherry

We may have been wrong about the Rangers forgetting Shany and Lundqvist. Or so they say:

http://www.thefourthperiod.com/news/nyr070703.html

But Sherry….he used to be a goalie! The Rangers are going to need him!

Which is precisely why they can’t have him!
on July 3, 2007 at 12:42 pm Schnookie

Sherry, I’m heartened that Don Meehan is Lundqvist’s agent. He’s the guy Nieder had to fire back in his Devils holdout days because Meehan was being such a doofus. (Hm. Why is it that really the only contracts that ever get done in the Devils organization are the ones that don’t involve agents? Is there something wrong with Lou? :P) I’m holding out hope! And in fact, have decided Lou should sign Lundqvist, just as a “fuck you” to Gomez, then trade Hank to Tampa Bay for one of their Big Three. I’ll take any one of them, but I prefer Lecavalier. I think this could really happen. And then the Devils will travel to all their games in a unicorn-drawn carriage.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:44 pm Schnookie

I have a question. Who or what is a Gerbtard?

Oh, Amy, did you miss our assy visitor yesterday? The Gerbtard is the one person, in over 13,000 comments, who’s been a jerk. He’s a delusional Rangers fan who calls the Devils “gerbils” and once, to our utter delight, wrote a hate post on his own (little read) blog about IPB. He is as legendary in Pookie’s and my minds as Earl’s crazy “Giggy’s mask is his own and he likes it!” commentor.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:50 pm Earl Sleek

Earl’s crazy “Giggy’s mask is his own and he likes it!” commentor

Ha! That’s the kind of commenter that really makes blogging all worthwhile, isn’t it? You forgot the obligatory “Who are you to question it, moron?!” part, though. That stuff really makes my day.
on July 3, 2007 at 12:51 pm Heather B.

And in fact, have decided Lou should sign Lundqvist, just as a “fuck you” to Gomez, then trade Hank to Tampa Bay for one of their Big Three. I’ll take any one of them, but I prefer Lecavalier.

I tried to sell Margee on that exact same deal! The Islanders need help (desperately) and it would up the “squee” quotient of her team. Unfortunately I’m not sure Margee has any actual sway with the organization.

I didn’t realize Gerbtard actually wrote an anti-IBP post on his blog. That’s awesome!
on July 3, 2007 at 12:55 pm Schnookie

Man, poor, poor Margee. I realize we weren’t online during the group hugs and gifts of ice cream to her, but sakes alive does she deserve it. I really can’t imagine why the Islanders and Devils aren’t doing this right now. We’re the teams that have been “left behind” (so to speak) by the rest of the Atlantic, and we’ve got money just sitting around waiting to be spent. So what that we don’t need goaltending. Just sign Hank and shop him around. There are plenty of teams who’d be willing to trade from their forward strength to get that caliber goaltender. (Although the Islanders would probably be better off finding a way to void Pretty Ricky’s unmoveable contract, keep Hank and ship DiPietro off.)
on July 3, 2007 at 12:58 pm Earl Sleek

Also while you’re at it: sign Hasek. I’m sure Steph would be thrilled at that development.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:00 pm Schnookie

Ha! That’s the kind of commenter that really makes blogging all worthwhile, isn’t it? You forgot the obligatory “Who are you to question it, moron?!” part, though. That stuff really makes my day.

It shouldn’t be so delightful, but there you go — I guess we blogger types are easy to please.

The best part about the Gerbtard’s comments yesteday was that when Pookie and I got home we both tried to tell Boomer about it, and we had completely opposing opinions of what his point had been. Finally we just had to throw our hands up and assure Boomer, “He just rambled and really didn’t make any sense at all.”
on July 3, 2007 at 1:01 pm Sherry

Sherry, I’m heartened that Don Meehan is Lundqvist’s agent. He’s the guy Nieder had to fire back in his Devils holdout days because Meehan was being such a doofus

He’s also Smytty’s agent, although I think what happened this past season might be reason enough for him to get the boot. He’s also Redden’s agent. I may have cut my losses early with that one.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:03 pm Earl Sleek

and we had completely opposing opinions of what his point had been

To paraphrase, I thought it was something like this: “Too bad you fucktards aren’t as mature as I am. Don’t call me a clown, you dicks. Here’s a long list of reasons why your team and your fans suck.”
on July 3, 2007 at 1:05 pm Amy

I found the Gerbtard post. Wow, what a little snot.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:07 pm Heather B.

“Here’s a long list of reasons why your team and your fans suck.”

Which had to be carefull and painstakingly explained because he brought an understanding to the game that most of us will never match.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:07 pm Sherry

I found the Gerbtard post.

I was tempted to go find it but his blog seemed a little too…colourful for me.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:10 pm Schnookie

To paraphrase, I thought it was something like this: “Too bad you fucktards aren’t as mature as I am. Don’t call me a clown, you dicks. Here’s a long list of reasons why your team and your fans suck.”

Earl, you almost make him sound lucid there!

Sherry, I’m convinced Don Meehan = disaster, so yeah, maybe you should cut your losses with Wade now. (Although maybe in that case the disaster will be him not going anywhere?)
on July 3, 2007 at 1:10 pm Heather B.

I have to admit, I was halfway through his comment the other day before I figure out what Debbies and Gerbils were.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:11 pm Steph

Also while you’re at it: sign Hasek. I’m sure Steph would be thrilled at that development.

Feuding!
on July 3, 2007 at 1:12 pm Heather B.

Amy, do you remember where the post is? I want to read it, too!
on July 3, 2007 at 1:13 pm Sherry

(Although maybe in that case the disaster will be him not going anywhere?)

We’ll see after what happens next season. He’s due for another break-out season. I know it! Please?

Feuding!

What about? Asides from the obvious.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:13 pm Pookie

Hello, IPB! I’m back from my envigorating morning meeting about all the ways my job could be really awesome but because not everyone understands that none of the cook things will come to pass! Yay!

First up, Happy Mags Day!!! Mags, that interview comment cracked me up. I’m a firm believer in “No Joke Ever Gets Old. EVER”.

Secondly, Happy Pronger Day! Thanks for the explanation.

Thridly, I am so all over this signing Hank and trading him for Vinny thing. Lou, get on that.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:14 pm Schnookie

I have to admit, I was halfway through his comment the other day before I figure out what Debbies and Gerbils were.

It was only the context he used on his very first comment here (way, way back in the day — he predated most of you here!) that clued me in on what Debbies and Gerbils are. And that he commented under the name “Mary Brodeur” with a fake email address something like, “GomezEatsElias [at] SwampSucks [dot] com”. I may not be a smart man, Jenny, but I was eventually able to realize where he was going with that all… :P
on July 3, 2007 at 1:15 pm Steph

What about? Asides from the obvious.

Earl’s refusal to stop taking all of my players.

(Actually the idea that I have to feud over Hasek of all things is enough to make me question whether or not it’s really worth it, though…)
on July 3, 2007 at 1:15 pm Katebits

Hi guys! How is Mags Day going? Did I miss the parade? I brought a sixer. I’ll just go put it in the IPB fridge.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:16 pm american oil

a sixer? Shit……only old english 40 oz allowed…..
on July 3, 2007 at 1:16 pm Sherry

We have a signing! Well an extension:

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=212628&hubname=nhl

Nashville isn’t dumping ALL their salary I guess.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:18 pm Pookie

I have to admit, I was halfway through his comment the other day before I figure out what Debbies and Gerbils were.

I had that same problem. My favorite part was when he came back and said, “No, no, I’m not making fun of you. I’m making fun of Devils fans.” Riiiight. And that’s why you wrote a post about how we’re like retarded MS3K robots venting our spleens that our team (which we only chose because we hate the Rangers, not because we love the Devils) isn’t as good as his team. That’s not making fun of us at all!

Schnookie and I talked about it last night and realized that IPB has no room for making fun of or insulting other team’s fanbases. Insult the team, the players and the management all you want, but please leave the fanbases out of this (for the most part; I think everyone here is really respectful and understanding when tiny thing slip through.)
on July 3, 2007 at 1:19 pm andrew

A 40oz of O.E.?!

Oil, you are a lady of class and I love it.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:20 pm Heather B.

Gertard said he was giving up hockey in his entry during the Buffalo series. Guess it didn’t stick. (Don’t ask why I’m reading his blog, please.)
on July 3, 2007 at 1:20 pm Katebits

Schnookie and I talked about it last night and realized that IPB has no room for making fun of or insulting other team’s fanbases. Insult the team, the players and the management all you want, but please leave the fanbases out of this (for the most part; I think everyone here is really respectful and understanding when tiny thing slip through.

Honestly, this is one of my very favorite things about IPB. I jokingly call IPB a “sacred, safe space”, but it kind of is a scared, safe space.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:20 pm andrew

“Insult the team, the players and the management all you want, but please leave the fanbases out of this”

Or Lou, never insult Lou! Otherwise you will summon the wrath of Pookie! J/k Pook, it’s all love.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:21 pm Schnookie

(Heather, if you actually mean to go read the Gerbtard’s blog post about us, it was dated 5/4/07, and titled “What Goes Around Comes Around”. I only know this because he used it to link to us yesterday, by the way. I’m not, like, obsessed.)
on July 3, 2007 at 1:21 pm american oil

Thanks……I mean……someone needs to spiff up the joint. I like to wear my wifebeaters a little to tight while sitting on the porch sipping down my OE. Remember I am an Oilers fan.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:22 pm Pookie

Honestly, this is one of my very favorite things about IPB. I jokingly call IPB a “sacred, safe space”, but it kind of is a scared, safe space.

And we will do everything in our power to keep it that way. As long as we have the Hammer of Sleek on our side to cut him down, and Mags to undermine all his gusto with such a simple response (“That’s nice dear”), I think we’ll be fine. Oil, you should know that Schnookie and I both said last night, “Damn, I wish Oil had been there; she would have smacked him down but good!”
on July 3, 2007 at 1:23 pm andrew

“Remember I am an Oilers fan”

That description sounds eerily similar to a Raiders fan. Just throw in a stabbing or something and you’re all set.

By the way, 40’s are great. I love the way that they carry lots of beer.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:23 pm Schnookie

Gertard said he was giving up hockey in his entry during the Buffalo series.

Oh, he did? I didn’t read that part. I just read the stuff where he cited us as an example of the erosion of intelligent, respectful discourse in sports, then called the Devils the “Debbies”.

And yes, andrew, Lou is sacred. The only people who get to make fun of Lou are Pookie, Mags and me. And Iain and Genna if they ever come back.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:24 pm Schnookie

By the way, 40’s are great. I love the way that they carry lots of beer.

That’s exactly why I’m fond of growlers.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:25 pm andrew

Growlers in my mind mean “microbrew”, thus they are waaay too sophisticated for a slag like me.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:26 pm Steph

Remember I am an Oilers fan.

And right about now, that is what Oilers fans need.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:26 pm Pookie

Or Lou, never insult Lou! Otherwise you will summon the wrath of Pookie! J/k Pook, it’s all love.

Right. No insulting Lou. Or Staffy. Or Boxworthy. Or Sid’s caboose. Or the soul-touching beauty of a Jordy Parise keyboe solo. Or the earth-shatteringly good quality of the Burritoville Border Burrito. Hm… this list is getting long. Maybe I need to have a wiki entry for “Off-Limits Topics”. I am, by the way, officialy known as the “Arbiter of Good Taste” at IPB Manor. I think I may need to extend my jurisdiction to all of IPB. The first step in that journey, I think, is hiring a copy boy…
on July 3, 2007 at 1:27 pm Earl Sleek

By the way, 40’s are great. I love the way that they carry lots of beer.

Ha! I love it, Andrew!

Wow, I was kind of unaware that “growler” was a universally understood term. I always thought it was the word-invention of our local microbrewery. Weird.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:29 pm american oil

Ok…so I had to go read the fucktards post. I am all for opinionated people. Hey, I am opinionated, but what a fucking blowhard. I can at least determine there is a difference between my opinions and reality. I may not LIKE that there is sometimes a difference (Earl – SHUT IT), but this ass just spouts shit left right and center like he is the reigning authority on all things. Seriously.

“Damn, I wish Oil had been there; she would have smacked him down but good!”

Yes when I was reading it at 3:30 this morning I had PLENTY to say to him. But then I realized most of the words I was using were WAY TOO BIG for him to understand.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:30 pm american oil

Wow, I was kind of unaware that “growler” was a universally understood term. I always thought it was the word-invention of our local microbrewery. Weird.

Poor, Poor Sheltered Earl…….
on July 3, 2007 at 1:30 pm Schnookie

I can at least determine there is a difference between my opinions and reality.

What I like best about IPB is that we all seem to be in agreement about what the “real” reality is. You know, the one with toaster children and turtles-of-affairs.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:30 pm andrew

Beer is wonderful.

So I fancy myself an amatuer (lousy) homebrewer and I was actually thinking about switching over to growlers for bottling. But they hold a LOT of beer. I might have a hard time convincing the wife that I need to drink the whole thing in a sitting. Might be worth a shot though.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:31 pm Heather B.

Chris Drury has gone from “the garbage man, a marginal player and mediocre captain who has made a career of hitting open nets” to one of the best centers in the league overnight. Amazing! Gertard also seems to be under the impression that Buffalo smells. I get a whiff of Lucky Charms from the General Mills factory once in a while, but that’s about it.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:31 pm Patty

That makes so much sense because I know exactly what every Buffalo News reporters is going to say (”We hate Darcy and think he’s stoopid”) and I read it anway which leads to even more frustration because I like Darcy and can’t understand why everyone is acting like this is the end of the world. Gah, I really need to move on.

You’re so describing my situation. (It was a while ago, still trying to catch up.)

I’m trying not to listen to all the whining in Dallas because nothing’s happened. But I’m glad Doug’s being careful. I want to just ignore it all, but when I peek, and see all the whining, I fear that the team will do something crazy just to appease the 20 fans that are saying the same thing a thousand times. Thereby sounding like 20,000 fans.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:31 pm american oil

I know. I set myself up there. However the point is opinions are not fact. (Althought the world would be a much better place if they all just accepted me as the supreme ruler).
on July 3, 2007 at 1:32 pm Amy

Mags to undermine all his gusto with such a simple response (”That’s nice dear”)

Is that the IPB equivalent of “bless her heart?”

And when the idiot mentions Debbies, for some reason, all I can think of are snack cakes. In addition to feminizing them, is he calling the Devils soft with a creamy filling?
on July 3, 2007 at 1:32 pm Earl Sleek

(Earl – SHUT IT)

What? Is this about Giguere’s mask too?
on July 3, 2007 at 1:33 pm american oil

or just Marty is soft with a creamy filling?
on July 3, 2007 at 1:33 pm Schnookie

I did check out the Gerbtard’s post yesterday and realized he wasn’t so much talking about how good the Rangers had or had not made themselves, but was remarking more on how wonderful Rangers fans are for supporting their team. Which is sort of a trend I’ve noticed in his, uh, discourse. He seems to enjoy being a Ranger Fan more than he enjoys being a fan of the Rangers, if that makes any sense…
on July 3, 2007 at 1:34 pm american oil

Well I enjoy being a fan of Hockey….not just the logo on the front of the Jersey…….

Um….but there are certain things that God himself has told me are evil. Rangers are one of them. Really…..look it up in the Hockey Bible.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:36 pm Schnookie

or just Marty is soft with a creamy filling?

Marty’s like a barrel of cakey exterior with a vast, creamy filling.

And now I need to go clean out my brain with bleach to get rid of the thoughts that conjured…
on July 3, 2007 at 1:36 pm american oil

Yes…I am prepared to Spork my eyes out.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:37 pm Pookie

And when the idiot mentions Debbies, for some reason, all I can think of are snack cakes. In addition to feminizing them, is he calling the Devils soft with a creamy filling?

:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Amy, you just won yourself a CTMPLTH Award! *baloons fall from sky*

This, of course, reminds me of the quote from the Simpsons where Moe says the Lisa logo on the recycling plant “makes Little Debbie look like a pile of puke”. I realize that’s not relevant to anything really, but it’s one of my all-time favorite Simpsons quotes so that’s all the justification I need.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:37 pm Schnookie

Well I enjoy being a fan of Hockey….not just the logo on the front of the Jersey…….

Nah, I meant more that he likes to pat himself on the back for being so wise and pure of heart that he’s a fan of the Rangers more than he actually cares to think about the Rangers themselves.

And I was also thinking snack cakes when I first heard “Debbies”! Then I thought of my lesbian shop teacher from high school. I think that teacher could take most of the guys on the Rangers roster, though, so I think the Devils should be flattered.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:39 pm american oil

Well I hate pompus ass fans who can’t think past their own team. I am all for being a die hard fan and I am all for cheering them on and believing in them but you still have to be willing to recognize that their are other teams and players out there…and God Forbid……*gasp* Fans…….with their own thoughts an opinions.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:40 pm Heather B.

He does seem to have a weird fixation on opposing fans rather than the opposing teams. I, as a Sabres fan, am a smelly, uneducated, unknowledgeable, bandwagon fan who throws things at other fans and wouldn’t be missed if Buffalo cracked off and floated away into the ocean. Seems kind of harsh really.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:41 pm american oil

I, as a Sabres fan, am a smelly, uneducated, unknowledgeable, bandwagon fan who throws things at other fans and wouldn’t be missed if Buffalo cracked off and floated away into the ocean.

Heather, I have been meaning to talk to you about this…..
on July 3, 2007 at 1:43 pm Schnookie

Yeah, Heather, it really is time you confronted the truth about yourself and your city. (*sniff… sniff* Is that Lucky Charms I smell?)
on July 3, 2007 at 1:44 pm american oil

I would be sooooo fat if I could smell lucky charms….
on July 3, 2007 at 1:44 pm Heather B.

Ahh, somehow I knew I was setting myself up for that. It was too late though, I’d already hit “submit comment.” You guys are so predictable :P
on July 3, 2007 at 1:44 pm Earl Sleek

Awww, my green shirt craze is taking a Photoshop beating at WFS. Hilarious!
on July 3, 2007 at 1:46 pm andrew

“I would be sooooo fat if I could smell lucky charms…”

Oil! that made me laugh pretty hard. good one!
on July 3, 2007 at 1:47 pm american oil

Unfortunatly I am really only one box of Lucky Charms away from being that…. :)

Can I consider acceptable baby weight as the weight of my child now??????
on July 3, 2007 at 1:49 pm Schnookie

Earl, that photoshopped graphic really is hilarious! You’re such a superstar!
on July 3, 2007 at 1:53 pm Amy

I, as a Sabres fan, am a smelly, uneducated, unknowledgeable, bandwagon fan who throws things at other fans and wouldn’t be missed if Buffalo cracked off and floated away into the ocean. Seems kind of harsh really.

If this person (not Heather) would have looked at a map before he plotted the demise of the entire city, he would realize that we’re nowhere near the ocean. We’d probably just float along until we hit Ontario or something.

I love when the city smells like Lucky Charms. Or Cheerios. Not so much when its Milk-Bones.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:53 pm Pookie

Earl, that is too funny! And rest assured your Shcneidermayer nickname has already taken root at IPB. If we ever blog a Ducks game this season (which we will, since they’re playing in NJ this year, right?) we’ll be sure to use it (with proper credit, of course).
on July 3, 2007 at 1:54 pm Earl Sleek

You’re such a superstar!

Well, not to the point where I’m disappointing the city of Buffalo, but maybe in a few years!
on July 3, 2007 at 1:54 pm american oil

Well, not to the point where I’m disappointing the city of Buffalo, but maybe in a few years!

It unfortunatly doesn’t seem to actually take much Earl….
on July 3, 2007 at 1:55 pm andrew

You guys are all great. I really think that’s why this blog developed such a rabid fan base so quickly. No one here cares about bashing teams or whatever, but no one makes fun of other fans. It’s cook for sure.
on July 3, 2007 at 1:56 pm Schnookie

andrew, we wait until you’re gone and start ripping into people who are Sharks/Sabres fans, but that’s really the only fanbase we make fun of…
on July 3, 2007 at 1:57 pm andrew

We’re a small but loyal dual fanbase. Growing in numbers!
on July 3, 2007 at 1:58 pm american oil

I think we tease fans with pity and laughter, but that is a far sight from bashing them or making personal harsh generalizations about the fans. (ok, other than the “the sky is falling” – but that was accepted as fact, even by the fans)
on July 3, 2007 at 2:00 pm Schnookie

I also make fun of Senators fans who don’t know how to properly jeer the other team’s goalie, but how can one NOT make fun of that?
on July 3, 2007 at 2:01 pm Mags

(thank you robert for letting me borrow your pda for a second)

i come with news. ok, back to the kiddos.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:01 pm Earl Sleek

So, Pookie & Schnookie, how do you feel about Karel Rachunek? Hopefully your response is somewhere warm enough to warrant 1 year, $1.5 M.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:03 pm Mags

o, je m’excuse, c’est en francais. je suis confiant ce n’est pas un probleme :P
on July 3, 2007 at 2:03 pm Heather B.

I’m assuming that article says the Devlis have signed Rachunek?
on July 3, 2007 at 2:03 pm Sherry

I also make fun of Senators fans who don’t know how to properly jeer the other team’s goalie, but how can one NOT make fun of that?

To be fair, Buffalo started it!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:03 pm andrew

Karel Rachunek to the Debbies! uh oh, I sense a Gerbtard posting is imminent.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:06 pm Schnookie

Mags, that was not in a language I understand!

Hee hee! I got the drift.

How do I feel about Rachunek? Well, he has one of IPB Manor’s all-time favorite nicknames, and one year at $1.5M is pretty damn innocuous. Plus, with Greene, Oduya, Martin and White, our D is basically only in need of relatively serviceable bodies — no need to find a spectacular player. I’m happy.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:06 pm Pookie

I have literally no opinion on Karl Rachunek.

Yet.

Heh heh heh…
on July 3, 2007 at 2:06 pm andrew

$1.5 million? For 6 goals and 20 master keys? sounds like a pretty good deal.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:08 pm Earl Sleek

Well, he has one of IPB Manor’s all-time favorite nicknames

Too dirty to type? Not a Senor-Spam-approved nickname?
on July 3, 2007 at 2:08 pm Meg

Gertard also seems to be under the impression that Buffalo smells. I get a whiff of Lucky Charms from the General Mills factory once in a while, but that’s about it.

I’m sorry to go back to this but I’m just totally hung up on it. This guy is in New York and he’s saying that Buffalo smells? As a New Yorker who grew up in Buffalo I can assure you that New York is definitely the smellier city.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:08 pm Heather B.

To be fair, Buffalo started it!

Mooooooo-oooooooom! Sherry’s insulting my fanbase!

Rangers are making room for Souray! (To quote my husband, “They’ll be souray!”)
on July 3, 2007 at 2:10 pm Heather B.

I’m sorry to go back to this but I’m just totally hung up on it. This guy is in New York and he’s saying that Buffalo smells?

He seems to be under the impression that because buffalos probably smell bad, Buffalo must smell bad too. It’s a given!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:10 pm Pookie

To be fair, Buffalo started it!

Mooooooo-oooooooom! Sherry’s insulting my fanbase!

That’s 5 IPB demerits to Sherry for insulting a fanbase, and 3 to Heather for taking the bait. :)
on July 3, 2007 at 2:10 pm Earl Sleek

(To quote my husband, “They’ll be souray!”)

FAN tastic! Don’t throw that hubby guy off any cliffs!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:11 pm Pookie

He seems to be under the impression that because buffalos probably smell bad, Buffalo must smell bad too.

Wait, you all don’t live on top of a giant buffalo? WTF? All this time I thought…
on July 3, 2007 at 2:12 pm Heather B.

Earl, I kind of like the guy so I’ll keep him for now. But yes, “You’ll be souray!” is his favorite NHL player joke and he uses it every single chance he gets, usually while shaking a fist in the air for emphasis.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:13 pm Vinny

Rangers are making room for Souray! (To quote my husband, “They’ll be souray!”)

:^:::::

HAHA i almost want them to do it :X. And as a team have the league’s worst +/-

:0 There are IPB Demerits? It is like a kind of taking away IPBucks from the account :0
on July 3, 2007 at 2:13 pm Schnookie

Rangers are making room for Souray! (To quote my husband, “They’ll be souray!”)

Heather, you just won the “Comment That Made Schnookie Laugh Out Loud The Hardest” Award!

Earl, the nickname for Rachunek stems from a rather involved story centering on one of our cats. I had a picture of him at work from the phase in his life when he hid in drawers in a bathroom vanity. And people could never figure out what the animal in the picture was. The cat is a ragdoll, which is essentially a really fluffy siamese-style cat. People asked if he was a porcupine, a raccoon, a skunk, all kinds of things, but never a cat. So we started calling the cat a “Ragcoonskupine”. Now, this cat is named after Patrick Roy, and we like to speak for him in a French Canadian accent, and joke that he has some anger issues. As it happens, we’ve gotten into the habit of saying he calls everything either “poopy” or “motherfucker”. (Yes, this is Boomer’s cat. Our mother rocks.) Anyway, the composite animal eventually became a “Ragcoonskipoop”, and that, needless to say, is what we call Rachunek. Aren’t you glad I shared that?
on July 3, 2007 at 2:14 pm Heather B.

That’s 5 IPB demerits to Sherry for insulting a fanbase, and 3 to Heather for taking the bait. :)

What?! That is SO not fair. It’s because I’m from Buffalo, isn’t it? Everyone hates Buffalo!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:15 pm Amy

Wait, you all don’t live on top of a giant buffalo? WTF? All this time I thought…

Nope, we don’t live on a giant Buffalo. However, if you look hard enough around town, you will actually see giant buffaloes in the randomest places.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:16 pm Earl Sleek

It’s because I’m from Buffalo, isn’t it? Everyone hates Buffalo!

Sorry, Heather. But I think in this case, these IPB demerits go on top of the demerits you get for coming from Stinktown.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:17 pm Schnookie

You know, Pookie and I were in Buffalo in March, and it really seemed to me we were on top of a massive Buffalo. You can’t pull the wool over my eyes…

(And I never smelled the Lucky Charms. We’ll just have to stay longer next year. And maybe leave our hotel room once or twice, other than to stalk Devils players in the elevators.)
on July 3, 2007 at 2:19 pm Pookie

However, if you look hard enough around town, you will actually see giant buffaloes in the randomest places.

And giant metal kazoos. (On my first hockey road-trip to Buffalo, I picked up a brochure at the hotel that advertized the world’s largest metal kazoo wasn’t too far from there. I opted not to visit it.)
on July 3, 2007 at 2:20 pm Pookie

What?! That is SO not fair. It’s because I’m from Buffalo, isn’t it? Everyone hates Buffalo!

You just earned yourself some more demerits, missy, for playing the “everyone hates Buffalo” on a blog run by two dyed-in-the-wool Jerseyians! ;)
on July 3, 2007 at 2:21 pm Schnookie

these IPB demerits go on top of the demerits you get for coming from Stinktown.

Dude, I am SO calling Buffalo “Stinktown” from now on!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:24 pm Heather B.

Eden, a suburb of Buffalo, has the only original metal kazoo factory in THE WOLRD, thank YOU very much!

You really have to be fairly close to the factory to get the Lucky Charms smell but it is definitely there. I’ll never forget my first time. It was… beautiful!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:24 pm Steph

Hey we might not have giant metal kazoos here, but since I moved out here for college a few years back there has been an increasing amount of unfortuate souls forced to dress up in giant kazoo costumes (yes, they exist) and wander around in front of banks to entice people in (yes, banks).

I get that the town is Kalamazoo. But don’t you think we could have come up with something better than “OH HEY IT SOUNDS A LITTLE LIKE KAZOO WITH LESS LETTERS! Someone get on the phone with the giant inimate object suit guys! This is totally the way to get people to come in and check out our new money market accounts!”
on July 3, 2007 at 2:25 pm Katebits

You guys are all just jealous of Buffalo. It’s not our fault we’re so rad.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:25 pm Heather B.

You just earned yourself some more demerits, missy, for playing the “everyone hates Buffalo” on a blog run by two dyed-in-the-wool Jerseyians! ;)

And I thought this place was supposed to be safe and secure. You may not be able to see me but I’m storming off dramatically, believe you me!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:26 pm Steph

More letters. Grammar evades me again.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:26 pm Vinny

but since I moved out here for college a few years back there has been an increasing amount of unfortuate souls forced to dress up in giant kazoo costumes (yes, they exist) and wander around in front of banks to entice people in (yes, banks).

To that I have to say – thank god Toronto is still sane :X.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:26 pm andrew

Okay, so maybe this place isn’t all warm and fuzzy and shit.

Fuck the Flyers! Yeah!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:27 pm Katebits

There are no Flyers fans here, are there?
on July 3, 2007 at 2:27 pm Amy

Eden, a suburb of Buffalo, has the only original metal kazoo factory in THE WOLRD, thank YOU very much!

I did not know that. And here I thought Eden was good only for the corn festival.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:27 pm Sherry

Sorry, Heather. But I think in this case, these IPB demerits go on top of the demerits you get for coming from Stinktown.

I’m so glad people in the States have no idea that’s what Hamilton is often referred to. Can I say that it’s because of our proximity to Buffalo?
on July 3, 2007 at 2:28 pm andrew

nah, no Flyers fans Kate. That’s why I said it. I wanted to sound like we’re all mean here, but I didn’t want to hurt any GR feelings.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:28 pm Heather B.

Mmmmm… Corn festival.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:30 pm Earl Sleek

OH HEY IT SOUNDS A LITTLE LIKE KAZOO WITH LESS LETTERS!

This is hilarious. I am picturing a bank “new business” contest between Kalamazoo and Oberlin, and a really fierce sales strategy from the resident Kazoos and Oboes.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:30 pm Steph

There are no Flyers fans here, are there?

I just keep telling myself, don’t let Jason Smith sway you, don’t let Jason Smith sway you…
on July 3, 2007 at 2:31 pm Vinny

I just keep telling myself, don’t let Jason Smith sway you, don’t let Jason Smith sway you…

it’s okay Steph! isn’t he a UFA after this year?

HE”LL COME BACK :D
on July 3, 2007 at 2:31 pm Schnookie

You may not be able to see me but I’m storming off dramatically, believe you me!

I believe you Heather — and it was a very effective gesture!

And yes, Katebits, we’re just jealous of how rad you are. That’s the ticket!

Steph, I used to work as a bank teller. I’m telling you, the people who run promotions at banks seem to think all bank employees are just inanimate objects without human feelings (like, say, Drury). I remember one training seminar I had to take about using “tag-ons” (where my mention of our hot new CD rates will make you, the harried person trying to get your card back after the ATM ate it, stop and invest all your moneys secreted in a different bank into our CDs); they talked about their favorite sales tactic: forcing the tellers to wear something embarrassing tied to them. Like a stupid hat, or balloons fastened to both arms. So then people would have to ask why you’re dressed like an idiot, and you, the teller, would happily chirp about the great investment opportunities at the bank. I think there was something lost in translation, because my response to that situation was, “Fuck this, I quit.”
on July 3, 2007 at 2:32 pm Steph

a really fierce sales strategy from the resident Kazoos and Oboes.

So long as they don’t bring the keyboes into the mix, us kazoos have a fighting chance.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:32 pm andrew

Speaking of Stinktown, I live a few hours down the freeway from Gilroy, CA “the garlic capital of the US”. Holee jeez does that town smell. Just driving through it is rough. It’s not like it’s roasted garlic or anything pleasant, it’s nasty.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:33 pm Pookie

And I thought this place was supposed to be safe and secure. You may not be able to see me but I’m storming off dramatically, believe you me!

Come back, Heather, I didn’t mean it! Consider those last demerits removed from your permanent record.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:38 pm Vinny

So long as they don’t bring the keyboes into the mix, us kazoos have a fighting chance.

What about the Kaboes :0?
on July 3, 2007 at 2:38 pm Katebits

Steph, I used to work as a bank teller. I’m telling you, the people who run promotions at banks seem to think all bank employees are just inanimate objects without human feelings (like, say, Drury).

This reminds me of when I worked at Chili’s. They had this thing called “Chili’s Sizzle Service” which was a check list of things you were supposed to try to sell to the customer. I flat out refused to do the Sizzle Service thing. I was fresh out of Oberlin and convinced I could “stick it to the man” by refusing to “up-sell” over-priced salads to college students (I know, craaaa-zy.). Anyway, I finally got “shopped” which is when they send a secret “customer” in to spy on you and I failed the Sizzle service test. They told me I could re-train and keep my job, and that is when I had to tell them, “Fuck you Chili’s, I quit.”
on July 3, 2007 at 2:41 pm Sherry

Come back, Heather, I didn’t mean it! Consider those last demerits removed from your permanent record.

Wait, so all I have to do is be melodramatic and I’d get them removed?
on July 3, 2007 at 2:44 pm Pookie

Wait, so all I have to do is be melodramatic and I’d get them removed?

Sherry, you actually have a leg-up on the demerit removal, because all you have to do is play “Another Song for a Blue Guitar” by Red House Painters tomorrow while I’m listening to your show. It’s just that easy.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:46 pm Earl Sleek

BTW, I should publicly admit this at least once, but I am a techno-idiot. Sherry talked me through this whole “internet radio” thing and apparently, with a little less idiocy, I could have been listening this whole time.

Thanks Sherry. Hear ya tomorrow.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:46 pm Schnookie

Katebits, I am scandalized by your lack of Sizzle Service!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:48 pm Katebits

Katebits, I am scandalized by your lack of Sizzle Service!

And Schnookie, I cannot believe you didn’t want to tie balloons to your ears to move CDs.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:49 pm Schnookie

No Sherry, not “Another Song For A Blue Guitar” — play “Salvador Sanchez” by Sun Kil Moon instead!
on July 3, 2007 at 2:50 pm Schnookie

And Schnookie, I cannot believe you didn’t want to tie balloons to your ears to move CDs.

If it’s any help at all, I’m wearing balloons tied to my ears right now to try to get more readers for IPB.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:50 pm Mags

I’m glad y’all didn’t explode while I was gone. I am not, however, playing catch up. If anything big happened, well that just my loss.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:51 pm Steph

If it’s any help at all, I’m wearing balloons tied to my ears right now to try to get more readers for IPB.

It is.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:52 pm Sherry

Sherry, you actually have a leg-up on the demerit removal, because all you have to do is play “Another Song for a Blue Guitar” by Red House Painters tomorrow while I’m listening to your show. It’s just that easy.

Ah crap. Tomorrow’s the Top 30 countdown, I have to play the countdown list!

Maybe I can sneak on a bit early or stay a bit later. Can I play it on Friday instead?

with a little less idiocy, I could have been listening this whole time.

you said it not me!

No Sherry, not “Another Song For A Blue Guitar” — play “Salvador Sanchez” by Sun Kil Moon instead!

I’ll play both. On Friday.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:54 pm Heather B.

My musical tastes are clearly too pedestrian for Sherry’s radio show since I have no idea who these people you’re talking about even are.
on July 3, 2007 at 2:55 pm Schnookie

No Sherry, not “Another Song For A Blue Guitar” — play “Salvador Sanchez” by Sun Kil Moon instead!

I’ll play both. On Friday.

Aw, Sherry, you’re the best! Although that’s a lot of Mark Kozelek for one radio show, so you should just play my request, because Pookie can’t listen on Friday! (Oh, the sibling rivalry!)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:02 pm Pookie

I’ll play both. On Friday.

That’s cook. Oh wait, I just realized that I’m off of work this coming Monday! I can listen to your show then! How exciting!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:06 pm andrew

Heather, if you don’t know any of the music they’re talking about, you should definitely look some of it up. I don’t know what kind of stuff you’re into, but I will say that the -ookies and Sherry have pretty good tastes.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:08 pm Heather B.

andrew, I’m always ten years behind what everyone else is listening to. Plus I like country music which I’m guessing this stuff isn’t :-)

Hey, IBP commenters were part of my “Why I Love Hockey” post yesterday just so you know. (andrew and Earl, no offense, but this one doesn’t really apply to you.)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:10 pm Schnookie

I will say that the -ookies and Sherry have pretty good tastes.

andrew, that just made my day! (It’s great to hear that coming from you, since you are certifiably “cook”, music-wise)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:10 pm Earl Sleek

(andrew and Earl, no offense, but this one doesn’t really apply to you.)

Great. So now we’re feuding too?
on July 3, 2007 at 3:10 pm Sherry

That’s cook. Oh wait, I just realized that I’m off of work this coming Monday! I can listen to your show then! How exciting!

Whee! I’ll try extra hard not to screw up the pronunciation of your names then.

Although that’s a lot of Mark Kozelek for one radio show, so you should just play my request, because Pookie can’t listen on Friday! (Oh, the sibling rivalry!)

I’m sure my listeners won’t mind. They’re all hip like that. And plus it’s my show, I’ll play what I want, mwahaha.

My musical tastes are clearly too pedestrian for Sherry’s radio show

I’m willing to play anything really. As long as it’s not country—oh wait. CERTAIN country.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:13 pm Heather B.

Great. So now we’re feuding too?

Just temporarily.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:13 pm Meg

Great. So now we’re feuding too?

You want to be a woman now Earl?
on July 3, 2007 at 3:14 pm Earl Sleek

Zubrus? Devils? Six years?

I’ll leave this one to the Debbie experts.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:16 pm Heather B.

What?! Evil Lou stole my Zubie? Gah!!!!!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:16 pm Katebits

NOOOOOO! ZUUUUBIE!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:17 pm Schnookie

Heather, I loved your post! LOVED IT! You got me all choked up, because you’re so right! (I’d leave this in a comment on your blog, but my computer at work doesn’t let me leave comments on blogspot anymore. Because it hates me and hates that I have blog girlfriends.)

Is this Zubrus thing for reals? SERIOUSLY? Because if it is, I am immeasurably happy right now. (Um, dependent, of course, on the money…)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:17 pm american oil

Earl and Andrew…I consider you my girlfriends……I wont leave you out!!!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:18 pm Heather B.

Oh, well… He did smell of that guy who was playing rejuvanated hockey just in time to sign a shiny new contract. Not that I would ever wish a disappointing signing on the Devils…
on July 3, 2007 at 3:18 pm Gambler

Heyo, everybody! I swear I’m not just waking up… I spent all morning cleaning my house.

I’m glad to see I wasn’t the only one stunned by todays Buffalo News fodder. Color me completely confused about that. On the one hand, it’s totally within the realm of possibility that Regier and co botched a signing with Drury, but there has to be more to the story than them going “Ooops, the printer’s out of paper. Oh well, he’s not that important, is he?” (Maybe they should have sent the job out to Lou’s new copy boy.) What I really need are some answers, but I’m sure none will be forthcoming. So instead I’m just going to have to listen to Bucky Gleason harp on it all summer long. Yippee, hooray!

That article with the players’ reactions really put a smile on my face, though. I was so glad to hear Crunchy had his Cranky Pants firmly belted in place with that whole “Drury and Briere better watch their backs!” comment. Soupy’s reaction gave me lots of faith, too. The highlight, though, was when I read that Toni Lydman gave his statement from a Finnish amusement park. The mental image of him flying along in a rollercoaster with the wind whipping over his aerodynamic, shaved dome was exactly what I needed.

Did anyone watch “Sabres to Remember” last night? I TiFauxed it, but I just don’t think I can stomach watching Drury score his first career slag-faced whoretrick right now. It’s too soon.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:19 pm Vinny

Good lord :X the Atlantic Division rivalry I’m thinking, at this moment, is at heights higher than Battle of Ontario rivalries. Not that I thought that was possible.

I don’t think Lou will overpay much. Looks good :D Bad for the Sabres though… :( ish.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:19 pm andrew

Heather, there’s no reason country can’t be hip. I grew up in a country music hotbed and I’ve found (over the years, after I moved away) that there’s a lot of really good country out there. i’m sure Sherry will find something good for ya!

“andrew and Earl, no offense, but this one doesn’t really apply to you.)”

Feuds all around!

“It’s great to hear that coming from you, since you are certifiably “cook”, music-wise”

Is that because I told you guys I think the Avalanches rock?
on July 3, 2007 at 3:20 pm Sherry

Well, Zubrus is now officially on the Devils’ roster page
on July 3, 2007 at 3:20 pm Genna

This is probably the happiest I’ve felt within the last 48+ hours.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:20 pm Mags

He was a Sabre since feb 27th 2007. That ain’t a whole lot of time. You’ll get over it (if this proves to be true)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:21 pm Mags

Well, Zubrus is now officially on the Devils’ roster page

*happy dance* YES!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:21 pm Schnookie

He did smell of that guy who was playing rejuvanated hockey just in time to sign a shiny new contract. Not that I would ever wish a disappointing signing on the Devils.

Well, considering that we suffered through last season of Scott Gomez playing like a guy in the aftermath of signing a huge contract (this being, of course, in his contract year, so good luck with that, Rangers), Zubie can be nothing but an upgrade, because at least he’s hott!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:21 pm Earl Sleek

Call another press conference, Stinktown. Hee hee.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:22 pm Steph

Heather! There are many spots open over here if you decide to join the feuding fold :) I’ll hold the ones that involve big guns and explosions just for you.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:22 pm Heather B.

Gambler, I loved the Finnish amusement part mention too. Do these guys carry beepers everywhere so the Buffalo News can track them down at any time? I’ve decided I’m not wasting any more time trying to figure out what happened. They’re gone, they’re not coming back, let’s move on. (And are we really upset that we’ve been saved from giving 7 milion dollars to a guy who’s averaged 23 goals and 58 points over his career? I mean… wow, that’s a lot of dough.)

I’m pretty bummed about Zubie if true though. I liked him.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:22 pm Gambler

Damn… I really wanted Zubrus back with the co-captains gone. But Mags is right, I knew he was going all along. Take care of him for us, Devils!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:22 pm Katebits

Oh you guy, the Debbies just got SO MUCH CREAMIER. Zubrus is just…special. I’m seething with jealousy.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:22 pm Meg

Zubie can be nothing but an upgrade, because at least he’s hott!

Yes, Lou is clearly looking out for the best interests of the Devil’s female fans with this one.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:23 pm andrew

At least Sabres fans were warned on this one. They all essentially agreed a month ago the Zube was going to check out free agency.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:24 pm american oil

Yes, Lou is clearly looking out for the best interests of the Devil’s female fans with this one.

Lou DID have a plan!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:24 pm Mags

Lou DID have a plan!

I TOLD YOU
on July 3, 2007 at 3:26 pm Heather B.

Oh, don’t get me wrong, I think country music is awesome (the good stuff atleast). Most people just roll their eyes at me when I say that though.

Gambler, I didn’t watch the game last night. I think ultimately letting the captains go will work out okay but I’m not sure I could handle that right now. According to the husband, the only game we’re watching the rest of the way is the other Rangers game (I think it was the Rangers) because Chris and Danny are both out.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:26 pm Katebits

Oh, I am so jealous. I am stomping pizzas and lighting cows on fire, JEALOUS.

Take good care of Zubie, girls. They broke the mold with him.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:26 pm Sherry

Lou DID have a plan!

THAT SHOOK THE ORGANIZATION TO ITS CORE!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:27 pm Heather B.

Devils fans, do you feel SHAKEN TO THE CORE?
on July 3, 2007 at 3:28 pm american oil

Hey…I could get the Devils bandwagon if they continue with the HOT player picks…….

….what can I say….I am easily swayed.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:28 pm Schnookie

This is probably the happiest I’ve felt within the last 48+ hours.

*happy dance* YES!

Big, big, BIG happy dances! Oh man!!!!!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:29 pm Earl Sleek

Lou DID have a plan!

If only they could dress this plan up as a coach, everything would be perfect!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:30 pm Genna

I bet we traded Elias for him.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:30 pm Amy

Ladies, Zubrus has a gf and two kids with her. Look, but don’t touch. ;o)

I think any team could find female fans if they stocked the team with hotties, but then you would attract high numbers of puck and dust bunnies, and that would not be good.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:30 pm Gambler

According to the husband, the only game we’re watching the rest of the way is the other Rangers game (I think it was the Rangers) because Chris and Danny are both out.

I think that was against Toronto, actually. A ridiculous amount of players were out, and half the roster were call-ups from Rochester. Not to mention we’d just traded Novotny and Zubie (sniff) was stuck in transit, so we were playing with a short bench. And we killed the Leafs something like 6-1. Yeah. That’ll be a good one. Can we show that one like next week? I think the Chicken Littles need to be reminded of it.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:31 pm Schnookie

What is UP with people suddenly coming to me with work to do??? Don’t they realize I’ve just been SHAKEN TO MY CORE?

I’m giggling hysterically right now. Of course, then we’ll find out the contract is for $85M over 6 years, and then I’ll be less giddy. But dude.

Katebits, no need to be jealous! Just do what we do — love both teams! You’ll still be a Sabres fan first, but you can revel in the Debbies and all their creamy goodness, too!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:32 pm Meg

Lou DID have a plan!

If only they could dress this plan up as a coach, everything would be perfect!

No, because then he’d be gone in a year. This way they can look at him for 6.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:34 pm Schnookie

If only they could dress this plan up as a coach, everything would be perfect!

Silly Earl — don’t you realize Marty is our coach?
on July 3, 2007 at 3:35 pm Mags

Sorry, I’m going to make some more phone calls.

Payback is a bitch :D
on July 3, 2007 at 3:35 pm Vinny

Gambler :X. That’s a horrible game to watch (although that game slips my memory so you’re probably right and it was too horrible for me to remember).

I think any team could find female fans if they stocked the team with hotties,

You could test that theory by seeing if you could find the team with the most female fans (relative to male) and see if that team is chock-full of hotties :X
on July 3, 2007 at 3:35 pm Amy

Can we show that one like next week? I think the Chicken Littles need to be reminded of it.

Don’t forget the Ottawa brawl game, too. That had practically half of the Amerks roster playing, not to mention that two of the brawlees were young’uns Staffy and Pat Kaleta.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:36 pm Schnookie

No, because then he’d be gone in a year. This way they can look at him for 6.

Good point, Meg. Those cheekbones can’t be made expendable, Lou!

I bet we traded Elias for him.

Genna, I love that “Devils fan” always shows. We either lost Elias to make this happen, or Lou’s just elating us now to make the let-down that much harder when he announces Pat Quinn’s the new coach.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:36 pm Gambler

Just do what we do — love both teams!

I think this signing might make me do just that. I’m actually surprised that I’m going to miss Zubie this much.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:36 pm andrew

Oh man, Pat Kaleta is a freakin’ bruiser! hope he makes the cut this year. Mair can take him under his wing.

Let the Mairification begin!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:37 pm Pookie

Woo-hoo! I am so superduper excited right now! I probably should be less excited on paper, because at the mid-point of the season and Zubie is offical a bust it will hurt to come back to this comment and see how excited I was. But… oh forget, HAPPY DANCE!

This is so the wrong time for the library to get really busy. I’m like, “Hello people, Devils blogger who just gotten shaken to the core!”
on July 3, 2007 at 3:37 pm Mags

Lou’s just elating us now to make the let-down that much harder when he announces Pat Quinn’s the new coach.

Say it isn’t so!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:38 pm Sherry

Jackets signed Jiri Novotny
on July 3, 2007 at 3:39 pm Schnookie

Aw, Mags, we all know at this point that the title of “Devils Head Coach” just means “Hollow Shell That Can Be Used To Convey Lou’s Message”. Pat Quinn would just be Julien 2.0.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:39 pm american oil

I think any team could find female fans if they stocked the team with hotties, but then you would attract high numbers of puck and dust bunnies

excuse me….are you trying to insinuate something here?

(didn’t you ready I am an OE 40oz guzzler with a wifebeater, mullet and Oilers fan……I have maimed for less)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:40 pm Katebits

Katebits, no need to be jealous! Just do what we do — love both teams!

I’m not going to lie, Zubie just helped my chances of becoming a True Devils Fan (after the Sabres of course) a LOT.

When are you going to announce your four teams for next season? One the one hand, finding out that the Sabres are off the list probably wouldn’t go down so well in the wake of S,PW-gate, but on the other hand, finding out you guys still loved the Sabres enough to watch all of our games would probably help sooth my sadness immeasurably. How about this, if you keep the Sabres, I’ll get Center Ice and the Devils will officially be my second favorite team. Hee. I’m sure your dying for my Devil support.

Hmm. I don’t know if I can handle the answer. Oh hell, just tell me. Wait no! No, tell me. I know, blink twice if the Sabres are still on the list.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:40 pm Katebits

Zubie is just delicious.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:41 pm Earl Sleek

Full disclosure: I barely know anything about Zubrus the player, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t regularly call him “Hubris” just because of the name.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:42 pm Mags

Aw, Mags, we all know at this point that the title of “Devils Head Coach” just means “Hollow Shell That Can Be Used To Convey Lou’s Message”. Pat Quinn would just be Julien 2.0.

*gigglesnort* Point taken
on July 3, 2007 at 3:43 pm Patty

I always have such clever things to say about something a hundred comments ago. Then by the time I catch up, it seems so dated.

So I won’t try to wedge in a joke about having enough pieces of flair for your teller job or Chili’s job. :D

And congrats to the Devils on Zubrus. I was kind of eyeing him for us, just because I heard y’all talking about him before. Wouldn’t it be cook to have two Zubies on the same team? What are the odds of that? (Low, as it turns out.)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:43 pm Katebits

Earl, all you need know about Zubrus is that he is breathtakingly handsome. I know we go on a lot about people like Crunchy, but honestly, Zubie is a cut above.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:43 pm Steph

Jackets signed Jiri Novotny

Rebecca’s not going to make me redo my “I like the Caps because they have a (mostly useless) Czech kid” post now, right?
on July 3, 2007 at 3:44 pm Sherry

Full disclosure: I barely know anything about Zubrus the player, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t regularly call him “Hubris” just because of the name.

Yeah, can’t say that surprises me.

Here’s the link to Novotny signing with Columbus

http://bluejackets.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=327095
on July 3, 2007 at 3:46 pm Katebits

The -ookies are too deep in Google chat about Zubie to do anything else right now! Hee. You’re so lucky!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:47 pm Pookie

How about this, if you keep the Sabres, I’ll get Center Ice and the Devils will officially be my second favorite team. Hee. I’m sure your dying for my Devil support.

Katebits, it’s a deal! I secretly hoping you’ll find you love the Devils once you read the fabulous game diaries we’ll write. Oh, crap, I certainly shouldn’t have said it was a secret. Anyway, we’ll have to find some way to make sure you’re keeping your end of the bargain. like weekly Devils quizzes.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:48 pm Amy

excuse me….are you trying to insinuate something here?

Forgive me, american oil. I did not mean to offend you.

I was just trying to make a point that a hottie team would not do much to enhance the reputation of a female hockey fan, in that a disproportionate number of puck/dust bunnies would be coming out. And my language skills failed while trying to make the point.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:49 pm Meg

Well we’re being allowed out early due to the holiday, so have a nice afternoon all, I’m heading home!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:49 pm Schnookie

I always have such clever things to say about something a hundred comments ago. Then by the time I catch up, it seems so dated.

Patty, that’s why I love doing the italicized copy-paste quote bit. Because people in my office think I’m here to do WORK when I’m supposed to be IPBing about ZUBIE. Bastards. I’m falling behind here, people!!!

Katebits, fear not. The Sabres are still on the list. In fact, we basically only had one open slot, because we just don’t have another Hurricanes season left in us. So it’s the Devils, the Sabres, the Penguins and [TBA], although there have been some leaks suggesting that slot is already taken by another Southeast Division team. (e5) But you should still get Center Ice and love the Devils, because that will make our game diaries that much more enjoyable to read, right? Right?

Steph, I have no doubt Rebecca’s going to make you change that post now!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:49 pm american oil

You know I am teasing you, right?

Also, after dealing with Lowe nothing can offend me….he has made me immune to anything.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:49 pm andrew

hahaha Amy, don’t mess with Oil! Like she said, she’s a OE 40oz guzzler with a wifebeater, mullet and Oilers fan…we’re girlfriends I’ll have you know.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:50 pm Vinny

Anyway, we’ll have to find some way to make sure you’re keeping your end of the bargain. like weekly Devils quizzes.

ooh do we get prizes :D? I might actually start voluntarily watching the Devils. :P
on July 3, 2007 at 3:50 pm Schnookie

Bye Meg! Have a great afternoon celebrating the Zubie signing!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:51 pm Vinny

-ookies :D Why not consider the NE division and the Maple Leafs :D
on July 3, 2007 at 3:51 pm andrew

“ooh do we get prizes :D? I might actually start voluntarily watching the Devils.”

I still won’t watch the Devils, but if the quiz answers can be gleaned from your game diaries, I’m in!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:51 pm Earl Sleek

ooh do we get prizes :D?

Prizes include head coaching duties for the last three regular season games plus playoffs.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:52 pm Steph

Steph, I have no doubt Rebecca’s going to make you change that post now!

Crap! After that Nylander thing I don’t think I have any happy Capitals things left in me! I’m doomed!

Also, after dealing with Lowe nothing can offend me….he has made me immune to anything.

I can’t decide if the awful truth inherant in that statement should make me think that there is a bright side to this all, or just continute to stew and be even more bitter.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:52 pm Schnookie

Vinny, the Devils quizzes will have IPBRiches as prizes. Yeah, that’s right: more than IPBucks, more than IPBTreasure — we’re talking IPBRiches. Well worth watching our boys!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:53 pm Mags

Ok, I have calmed down a bit. HAPPY MAGS DAY! Ok, maybe I haven’t.

andrew, *gigglesnort*
on July 3, 2007 at 3:53 pm american oil

we’re girlfriends I’ll have you know

Damn straight….you need someone to kick all the guys asses when you piss them off………that is where I come in……You ought to see my tattoos….
on July 3, 2007 at 3:53 pm Schnookie

-ookies :D Why not consider the NE division and the Maple Leafs

Wow. Vinny just won the “Comment That Made Schnookie Laugh Out Loud The Hardest” Award, and that’s going to be a tough one to top! :P
on July 3, 2007 at 3:54 pm Mags

Prizes include head coaching duties for the last three regular season games plus playoffs.

Hahahaha :P
on July 3, 2007 at 3:54 pm andrew

see ya Meg.

I’d say IPB needs their 4th team to be a Western Conference team. Just to balance things out. That means you can choose between the Oilers, Sharks, Ducks, and Stars. Man, there’s only 4 WC fans on this blog? Am I forgetting someone?
on July 3, 2007 at 3:55 pm Mags

Andrew, there’s more, but they’re all representing those teams.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:55 pm american oil

Nope. There are other teams we all watch but as far as Die hard fans….nope…those are the three….
on July 3, 2007 at 3:55 pm Sherry

Well, it’s not quite a news conference but I suppose it’ll have to do:

http://islanders.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=327096
on July 3, 2007 at 3:55 pm american oil

(I stealthly left out the ducks….as we don’t care since they are the SC Champs)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:55 pm Patty

Don’t forget the Western Conference in your hunt for secondary teams to follow!

The Stars (and, okay, the Ducks) are good for TiVo-ing if you’re on the East Coast. The games often don’t start until 11pm. So you’ll have one to watch in the morning while you get ready for work.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:56 pm Earl Sleek

Be wary of the Ducks until they (will they ever?) fire Hayward and Ahlers. I mean, you’d better have rooting interest in the team to watch these play-by-play bozos 80-odd games a year.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:56 pm andrew

Steph! Right! forgot the Wings. Sorry!

But honestly, cheering for the Wings is like cheering for the Leafs. It’s tough.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:56 pm Steph

Either I’m getting neglected, or my two days straight of Oilers whining has distracted everyone from where my true loyalties lie.

Then again, I think I have a better chance with the Oilers than suggesting the Wings get added to that list. (I am now preparing myself for a blast of HAHAHAHAHA and some Hasek name-calling.)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:56 pm Katebits

Katebits, fear not. The Sabres are still on the list.

Woo-oooo! I’m totally getting Center Ice and I’m totally going to love the Devils. I’ll be your very best minion. You should know that finding out definitively that I can expect continued Sabreslove from IPB has considerably lessened my S,PW angst.

Drury is such a loser. I can’t believe he left such a rad team to join the Rangers. I can’t believe I ever loved that slag-faced whore.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:57 pm Genna

Prizes include head coaching duties for the last three regular season games plus playoffs.

Sign me up! We all know they just stand there and look pretty.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:57 pm Katebits

I remember you guys letting slip on the fourth team, but my sieve brain cannot recall who it was.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:58 pm Grace

Man, there’s only 4 WC fans on this blog? Am I forgetting someone?

Andrew, don’t forget about me! I’ve been lurking for the past few days, trying to catch up, but I’m so behind that it’s hopeless.

Hi, everyone!
on July 3, 2007 at 3:58 pm Patty

And the Sharks and the Wings. Don’t forget Steph’s Wings.

(I’m the one that left off the Sharks as well as the Wings. Sorry about that.)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:58 pm Mags

Kate their teams were, Devils, Pens, Sabres, Canes.
on July 3, 2007 at 3:58 pm Schnookie

Ok, I have calmed down a bit. HAPPY MAGS DAY! Ok, maybe I haven’t.

This has been the best Mags Day ever, hasn’t it?

andrew, there was some thought of adding the Ducks or the Sharks, but that 10:30 start time is brutal. When we watch the second game of the night at IPB Manor, we’re generally queueing it up at 10:00 and expect to be able to zap over commercials. If it’s running live at that time, it just runs too late. (And yes, these are the logistics you have to consider when you’re committing yourself to watching four full NHL seasons concurrently.) But the fourth team we’ve tentatively added has serious potential to be a big-time dud, so we might have to change horses mid-stream. (It would be nice to have a WC team, though, for sure.)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:59 pm Earl Sleek

We all know they just stand there and look pretty.

Ummmm, which coach looked pretty again? Lou or Claude? (or as some would phrase it: “Shrek or his donkey?”)
on July 3, 2007 at 3:59 pm american oil

We were looking for someone OTHER then Ducks, Oilers, Sharks and Stars Fans……..we know you are a Ducks fan.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:00 pm Patty

It’s going so fast here. I thought of the Wings before Steph reminded us, but not before I left it off my list.

I was really just going to schill for the Stars, but I felt bad, and then I made it worse. :D
on July 3, 2007 at 4:00 pm Gambler

Jackets signed Jiri Novotny

Wow. Is there anything more underwhelming than this?

Ookies, I’m so glad to hear the Sabres have made the cut for your teams to watch next season. My spirits needed that bolstering.

Sabres! Sign someone!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:00 pm andrew

Grace! There you are, our Ducks fan in exile!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:01 pm Steph

Annnnd I’m bein gdragged off grocery shopping. Have fun without me for a while!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:01 pm Earl Sleek

Aside from my Duck allegiance, I am also a closet Minnesota Wild fan. That shouldn’t really matter at all, but I’m proud about it (within my closet, that is).
on July 3, 2007 at 4:02 pm Vinny

Wow. Vinny just won the “Comment That Made Schnookie Laugh Out Loud The Hardest” Award, and that’s going to be a tough one to top!

I’m not sure I really want to celebrate that comment being my first CTMSLOLTH award :P

HAHAHA.

But the fourth team we’ve tentatively added has serious potential to be a big-time dud,

*tinytinywhispers*youthink:X
on July 3, 2007 at 4:02 pm Mags

Earl, come out of that closet. Unless you’re in there with someone else, in which case, let out the wildebeest in yourself.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:02 pm Patty

Be wary of the Ducks until they (will they ever?) fire Hayward and Ahlers.

It’s not just me?? That’s such a relief. I watch quite a few Ducks games every year (the division-enemy, you know) and good grief I can’t stand those guys.

The color guy is the WORST. He never stops talking. Not even for a second. Others tend to ramble, sure, but he doesn’t even stop long enough to listen to the crowd for a second after a big goal. Just goes on with his story that the goal interrupted.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:02 pm andrew

“but that 10:30 start time is brutal.”

I hear ya. But those Sharks, they’re great! Think about it!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:03 pm Katebits

Sabres! Sign someone!

Seriously……and it better be Brad Pitt if you’re gonna let Zubie walk like that.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:03 pm Earl Sleek

But the fourth team we’ve tentatively added has serious potential to be a big-time dud…

Wait, I thought you already counted the Devils in your first three!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:03 pm Grace

We were looking for someone OTHER then Ducks, Oilers, Sharks and Stars Fans……..we know you are a Ducks fan.

Thanks, Oil. I sent the comment before I saw that he meant teams, not IPB Irregs.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:03 pm Vinny

I’m a closet SoCal fan (LA) :X and a closet Caps fan.

Maybe you can replace that SE division team with the Caps ! :D
on July 3, 2007 at 4:03 pm american oil

Unless you’re in there with someone else, in which case, let out the wildebeest in yourself.

I think I puked a little in my mouth.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:03 pm Sherry

Okay, so I’ve had a fun day of furious refreshing [love Firefox, btw]

But now I must take my leave. I’ll be back in an hour or so!

Cheers
on July 3, 2007 at 4:03 pm Genna

Ummmm, which coach looked pretty again? Lou or Claude? (or as some would phrase it: “Shrek or his donkey?”)

None of the above. I was going to say that none of them are actually pretty, but it just ruins the phrase with word baggage.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:04 pm Schnookie

Be wary of the Ducks until they (will they ever?) fire Hayward and Ahlers. I mean, you’d better have rooting interest in the team to watch these play-by-play bozos 80-odd games a year.

That’s another big consideration: can we stomach the team’s broadcast pair. I’m sorry to say, Patty, but I can barely listen to one game with Daryl Reaugh, let alone 80+, so the Stars just aren’t happening. Earl, the Ducks were almost making the list on the strength of Getzlaf alone, but he was my SCF boyfriend, not my regular-season boyfriend, so I don’t think he’s enough to make me able to ignore Hayward and Ahlers. And andrew, ever since they let Drew Remenda (is that how you spell it?) go, the Sharks games have been a mere shadow of their former selves. (The Sharks guys used to be my dark-horse favorite non-NY Metropolitan area broadcast team. Someday I’ll have a moment to share with you the hilarious tale of the time X our crazy ex-roommate was let loose on those poor guys.) The Canadian teams are kind of spotty, too, because I don’t think we get all their games on Center Ice. So, uh, where does that leave us? (No Steph, NOT the Red Wings.)
on July 3, 2007 at 4:05 pm Mags

Wait, I thought you already counted the Devils in your first three!

Jerk. Go eat lunch.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:05 pm Mags

Bye Sherry!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:06 pm Katebits

Kate their teams were, Devils, Pens, Sabres, Canes

I know, but my ears perked up at some point weeks ago when one of them was all, “And that’s exactly why [Team X] is one of our new teams for next year.” They told us at some point, I just fergit what they said.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:06 pm american oil

(No Steph, NOT the Red Wings.)

I love you Steph…you are my Oilers sister and all…..but Schnookie….THANK GOD. That would be just TOO much for any of us to handle.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:06 pm Vinny

The Canadian teams are kind of spotty, too, because I don’t think we get all their games on Center Ice.

Yet another example of the alienation of the fans that rake in the NHL’s revenue. They never LEARN.

Seriously……and it better be Brad Pitt if you’re gonna let Zubie walk like that.

Huh. and I was under the impression that they wanted someone younger. :X.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:08 pm andrew

“ever since they let Drew Remenda (is that how you spell it?) go, the Sharks games have been a mere shadow of their former selves.”

Rumor has it, Remenda’s not sticking around at CBC. He was in the booth for the last 2 or 3 sharks games this year, and there’s a lot of talk that he’ll be back next season.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:09 pm Grace

“And that’s exactly why [Team X] is one of our new teams for next year.” They told us at some point, I just fergit what they said.

Why do I think it was Tampa Bay? The LecavelierLove?
on July 3, 2007 at 4:10 pm Heather B.

Sabres! Sign someone!

No! No! Don’t fall into the Buffalo trap of trying to the make the team sign someone just to sign someone! We’ll end up with Souray (and then we’ll ALL be souray at our lack of defensive defensemen although it would be nice to have someone who will occasionally shoot on the PP).
on July 3, 2007 at 4:10 pm Katebits

Yeah, Grace. I was thinking maybe them too. I wish I wasn’t so stoopid and could remember things!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:11 pm Schnookie

Wait, I thought you already counted the Devils in your first three!

Watch it, Earl. *stern look* That’s a hefty IPBDemerit for you!

andrew, if Remenda’s back next year, our new Southeast team is going to have to work pretty hard to keep my gaze from drifting…
on July 3, 2007 at 4:11 pm Earl Sleek

Andrew, what did you think about McSorley in the booth, by the way? He was sort of our “Bill Clement” (functionwise) for Ducks and Kings games the year after the lockout, and I rather liked him in that role (or is it that I hate Bill Clement with such gusto?).

I caught some Sharks telecasts and thought Marty M. was doing OK, and was especially in stitches the time that he led the Sharktank in singing happy birthday to his broadcast partner.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:11 pm Katebits

No! No! Don’t fall into the Buffalo trap of trying to the make the team sign someone just to sign someone!

But Heather, no ZUBIE! We’re bleeding hotties!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:12 pm Heather B.

The Sharks guys used to be my dark-horse favorite non-NY Metropolitan area broadcast team.

And really, who wouldn’t want to be dark-horse favorite non-NY Metropolitan area broadcast team?
on July 3, 2007 at 4:12 pm Patty

I’m sorry to say, Patty, but I can barely listen to one game with Daryl Reaugh, let alone 80+, so the Stars just aren’t happening.

No offense taken. I like him alright, but it’s probably mainly because I learned to watch hockey listening to him. I like him on the games, but his radio interviews and his blog make him sound like much more of a jerk than he does on the broadcast.

But, you can kind of keep an eye out and if their opponent’s team is calling the game, you could watch them.

I’m kind of a closet Oilers fan. I like their broadcasts. But a lot of the time the picture on the Canadian feeds is so bad I can’t read the numbers on their jerseys, let alone their names. Why is that?
on July 3, 2007 at 4:12 pm Schnookie

Why do I think it was Tampa Bay? The LecavelierLove?

Fine, I’ll fess up (since you know already it’s not the Canes, no one in their right mind would like the Panthers, and Bobby Holik’s a Thrasher): it’s the Caps. We just like Ovie (and their broadcasters) that much. That said, there’s a lot about them we don’t like, so they’d better start out really strong, or I’ll be dropping them so fast they won’t know what hit them. I am NOT afraid to bandwagon.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:13 pm Earl Sleek

*stern look* That’s a hefty IPBDemerit for you!

What? Because I’m not from Buffalo?!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:14 pm Amy

-ookies, Zubrus signed with the Devils for 6 years, 20.4 million dollars. Sounds like Lou did good.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:14 pm Mags

3.4 a year? That isn’t bad.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:15 pm Earl Sleek

I’m sorry to say, Patty, but I can barely listen to one game with Daryl Reaugh, let alone 80+, so the Stars just aren’t happening.

I will say, though, that I find Razor very tolerable as an announcer, and his blog is hilarious! Actually, maybe he’s a so-so color guy, but he reminds me of stuff I read on his blog and chuckle.

One of the very few “professionals” in hockey that I like to read regularly.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:15 pm andrew

“Andrew, what did you think about McSorley in the booth, by the way?”

I liked Marty. I thought he did a pretty good job of stepping into some really, really big shoes after Remenda left. He is suprisingly eloquent, and actually I liked the fact that he was a little less of a homer than Remenda.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:16 pm Patty

I am NOT afraid to bandwagon.

That’s the beauty of the lower-rung team on your list. You don’t have to feel guilty about your bandwagon-ism.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:16 pm Vinny

Could be better bc that’s a horrible length, but not bad :D.. see ! Lou will make it okay

THE CAPS? REALLY?

*gleeful* …yesi’maclosetCapsfan:X
on July 3, 2007 at 4:18 pm Patty

I always kind of wonder what others think of Razor. I’ve read that some put him way up on the list and others way down.

I don’t know of any other team that I’d rather switch with.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:18 pm Schnookie

And really, who wouldn’t want to be dark-horse favorite non-NY Metropolitan area broadcast team?

Hey, we’re talking about a time when the NY area teams had Doc/Chico, Sam/JD and Howie Rose/Joe Micheletti. That, people, is a golden age of broadcasting. (Of course, now that JD’s gone and Micheletti’s working the Rangers it’s like, “How did we fall so far so fast?” He’s AWFUL on the Ranger feeds. And Billy Jaffe on the Island is even worse. So dreadful. COME BACK, JD!)

Patty, I agree that the Canadian feeds on Center Ice always look like they’re filming through a dirty fish tank. I hate when we’re stuck wanting to watch more hockey on a random evening and the only thing left is, like, a Vancouver feed on CBC. And you just sit there watching, wondering what it is about this sport as televised entertainment that you thought you liked so much.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:19 pm Grace

Schnookie, I think I could really get behind your secondary teams. I am fairly opinionless about all three and am ready to be molded in to an IPB Minion (a la your secret plan).
on July 3, 2007 at 4:19 pm Earl Sleek

Ooh. The Wild sign Eric Belanger. Back when the Kings had two Belangers, Eric was clearly the more talented player. But that said, he still wasn’t enough of a threat to say that differentiating the two Belangers was even worth it.

Perfect for the anonymous Wild!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:19 pm Pookie

The -ookies are too deep in Google chat about Zubie to do anything else right now! Hee. You’re so lucky.

Full disclosure: we are chatting right now. But the transcript goes something like this:

Schnookie: Wow, the Devils got Zubrus!
Pookie: [ten minutes later] Hold on, it’s crazy busy here at work.
Schnookie: OK.
Pookie: [ten mintues later] OK, I’m back, let’s talk about Zubrus now.
Schnookie: I’m too busy right now, come back later.

Seriously, we’re both swamped at work right now. It’s driving me crazy! I’m barely keeping up here!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:20 pm andrew

That’s it Earl! How could we have been so blind? The Wild need to be the IPB 4th team! They are the Western Conference version of the Devils!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:21 pm Earl Sleek

except coachier.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:21 pm Vinny

3years for 5.2M (1.73M cap hit)
for Belanger :X

not bad ;D
on July 3, 2007 at 4:21 pm Patty

Speaking of broadcasts, does anybody ever watch games on HDNet?

Their picture is much sharper than some HD broadcasts and the framing is strictly widescreen — no invisible lines on the side to account for non-HD TVs.

One thing they do that I really like, and that I think others should try, is something they call “Sounds of the Game”. It’s where they just stop talking for about 7 or 8 minutes. It’s SO GREAT. It sounds like you’re in the arena. Even if there’s a goal during that time, they don’t say anything. They come back to it after the time is up.

I think NBC should try it.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:22 pm andrew

And with a frighteningly nasty enforcer.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:22 pm Gambler

No! No! Don’t fall into the Buffalo trap of trying to the make the team sign someone just to sign someone!

I don’t want them to sign someone just for the sake of signing someone. I just want them to sign someone so I can be entertained. I’m getting bored over here. I need some news. Even if it’s Andrew Peters news. Thomas Vanek news would be the best, though!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:24 pm Schnookie

-ookies, Zubrus signed with the Devils for 6 years, 20.4 million dollars. Sounds like Lou did good.

Are you SHITTING me? That’s AWESOME!!!! Oh my god, I am wriggling like a Pommerdoodle. Best. Day. Ever. (Okay, that last bit was some hyperbole, but suffice to say, I’m really happy about this.) And yes, it’s a long contract, but a long contract worth very little (comparably) money.

I really enjoy Wild games on Center Ice because their local commercials crack my shit up. They would probably be the next team to get a crack at our 4-spot if the Caps don’t pan out. (Anyone want to bet how long before we lose interest in the Caps? I’m calling under 20 games.)
on July 3, 2007 at 4:24 pm Katebits

That’s right, The Caps! I should have remembered that too because I’m kind of proud that I loved Ovie before I was expressly instructed to do so by IPB.

I figured out he rocks the sex eyes all by myself.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:25 pm Mags

Anyone want to bet how long before we lose interest in the Caps? I’m calling under 20 games.

12-18. That’s my bet.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:26 pm Vinny

Hee I think that depends on how much Nylander can help him, and how much Backstrom lives up to hype :D.

(Anyone want to bet how long before we lose interest in the Caps? I’m calling under 20 games.)

Can I call after I”ve seen one or two exhibition games? XD
on July 3, 2007 at 4:27 pm Heather B.

Oh, Gambler I agree. Thomas Vanek news would be wonderful. Or maybe an extension for Soupy and Crunchy. They should just panic and extend everyone right now.

Rick and Jim are the best broadcasting duo in the biz. I will brook no argument.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:28 pm Patty

Back when I aspired to be a professional photographer, I worked in photo labs for a while and it made me obsessed with the picture. I’ve been known to walk out on movies because they can’t get the whole thing focused. If even the corners are out of focus, I can’t stand it. That’s all I look at.

That said, the Oilers have the most oddly-lit rink that I know of. They’re very old-school! Each player has four shadows. And it’s generally kind of low-tech dim, compared to all the other bright, evenly-lit rinks. Has anybody ever noticed that?

Just me? Okay.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:28 pm Schnookie

except coachier.

He might be in Minnesota, but Jacques Lemaire is still coaching the Devils in Lou’s heart!

Oh, and Patty, my dislike of Daryl Reaugh is that he just sits there laughing at his own jokes all night. And he’s an arrogant prick. And he’s a moronic windbag. But other than that, I really don’t have a problem with him. (You would think, though, from the way he works the calls, that he thinks people are watching just because of him. I wonder if he’d be startled to discover Stars fans would watch even if a pineapple was doing the call.)

Marty McSorley pissed me off when the Devils were in SJ in November. The Sharks fans were booing every time a Devil player touched the puck behind the net, and during the first intermission Chico went to find out why. And he came back all pissed off and said that Marty McSorley had just explained the fans were booing because the Devils were trapping (um, because trapping is when you have the puck behind your own net, apparently), and then lectured Chico about how bad for hockey the Devils are. Fucker. He can rot in hell! (See, it just doesn’t take much to be dead to me.)
on July 3, 2007 at 4:29 pm Patty

(Anyone want to bet how long before we lose interest in the Caps? I’m calling under 20 games.)

I’m gonna take the under, too.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:31 pm Schnookie

Oh god, Patty, don’t get me started about how awful the Oilers rink always looks on TV! Actually, the Caps arena looks bad, too, so that could be another reason to doubt our willingness to stick with them for a full season.

Rick and Jim are the best broadcasting duo in the biz. I will brook no argument.

Heather, I’ll fight you to the death on this one. Doc and JD. Gone but not forgotten.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:33 pm Katebits

…or maybe an extension for Soupy and Crunchy.

Yeah! Let’s lock up Soupy and Crunchy forever and ever! Heather, if they lock Soupy up he might really make a good goofy, wily warrior.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:34 pm Heather B.

Heather, if they lock Soupy up he might really make a good goofy, wily warrior.

Yeah, G,WW is probably a better fit for Soupy than S,PW. Soupy is my hockey buddy. I just want to hang out and sing karaoke with him. We’d have a blast, I know it.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:34 pm andrew

That’s pretty funny Schnookie. I bet Marty pulled Chico’s jacket over his head and threw him a haymaker after that! No? well, it would have been better that way.

And I am fully aware that this may get me banned from IPB, but here goes: I cannot stand Doc Emerick. He drives me absolutely insane. In fact when they had him announcing during Sabres games during the playoffs, it was all could do to keep from muting the TV. Phew, I feel better getting that off my chest. Sorry, go ahead and take my IPBucks. all of ‘em.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:35 pm Earl Sleek

Rick and Jim are the best broadcasting duo in the biz. I will brook no argument.

If these two represent the Sabres duo, I dunno. I mean, I get a kick out of them whenever I see them, but if it were an every-other-day occurrence, I’d be wary.

How do you watch telecasts without imitating the exciteMENT IN THE GUY’S VOICE WHEN OH MY GOD THE PUCK IS IN THE ZONE AND HOLY SHIT IT’S NEAR THE GOALLINE! but then the goalie makes the save and you found out it was a routine play the whole time.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:36 pm Patty

I won’t try to sway you, Schnookie. That might have just been the one game you called.

One thing I do like about him and Ralph is that, while they talk about the Stars the most, and they should, they’re not too homer-ish when they do something wrong or the opponent does something right. They both have often said, “[Stars player] got away with one there.” Or, “[Opposition player] didn’t really do anything to warrant that call.”

Everybody thinks more highly of the player they watch every day than the players they seldom see or just read about. So I think they do a pretty good job of being just homer enough.

And I think Doc and Chico are good at that.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:38 pm Gambler

Rick and Jim are the best broadcasting duo in the biz. I will brook no argument.

Heather, I’ll fight you to the death on this one. Doc and JD. Gone but not forgotten.

Heather, if you’re really going to fight to the death on this one, I’ll be your second. Let’s get Boxworthy on it.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:38 pm Patty

…one game you watched, I mean. *rolls eyes*
on July 3, 2007 at 4:38 pm Heather B.

Heather, I’ll fight you to the death on this one. Doc and JD. Gone but not forgotten.

To the pain! I need to see these guys do local games evidently because I just am not a big fan of Doc and JD’s national work.

Earl, I guess I just don’t notice it anymore. But it does make game 67 of the season seem a lot more interesting than it would be otherwise. And I will admit that Rick has started to seem a little loopy at times on the air. But I don’t care, I love him.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:38 pm Grace

And I am fully aware that this may get me banned from IPB, but here goes: I cannot stand Doc Emerick. He drives me absolutely insane. In fact when they had him announcing during Sabres games during the playoffs, it was all could do to keep from muting the TV. Phew, I feel better getting that off my chest. Sorry, go ahead and take my IPBucks. all of ‘em.

I’m sorry, IPB, but I feel the same way about Doc.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:40 pm Heather B.

Also Earl, Rick imitations are one of the best things about listening to Rick. It’s a Buffalo tradition!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:40 pm Schnookie

And I am fully aware that this may get me banned from IPB, but here goes: I cannot stand Doc Emerick. He drives me absolutely insane. In fact when they had him announcing during Sabres games during the playoffs, it was all could do to keep from muting the TV. Phew, I feel better getting that off my chest. Sorry, go ahead and take my IPBucks. all of ‘em.

You wish it would be so easy as just forking over your IPBucks for that!!! OUT! OUT!!! Go sit in Senor Spam for a few days until you can reconsider what you just said and take it all back! *Collapses in tears*

Okay, I actually can’t stand how Doc is used on NBC and VS. I don’t understand why have him call games that way, where he’s supposed to be toning down the hockey content and telling more “human interest” stories about the players and shit. And he has terrible chemistry with their entire stable of color guys (although his thinly veiled disgust for Pierre McGuire is pretty funny). He is a completely different play-by-play guy on the national games than he is on FSN (and than he was back in the Fox days when he did the games with JD). When he’s allowed to just sit back and call the play, he is unparalleled. There is no other announcer in any other sport who can ratchet up the excitement level like Doc can. I just remember one Devils-Flyers game many years ago that the Devils won in OT after several minutes of wild, end-to-end action. And that night ESPN’s little highlight reel clip for the game on Sportcenter was just Doc’s call of the entire OT. It was breathtaking.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:41 pm Mags

Rick and Jim are the best broadcasting duo in the biz. I will brook no argument.

Heather, I’ll fight you to the death on this one. Doc and JD. Gone but not forgotten.

Heather, if you’re really going to fight to the death on this one, I’ll be your second. /i>

I suspect Pookie will have her back on this one, but I will take you down myself if I have to.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:41 pm andrew

Mair does a pretty good RJ imitation. They had him do it during intermission once, when he was on the IR and in the booth. Hilarious.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:41 pm Patty

Speaking of Doc and Chico, I recently found a clip on YouTube of poor Boucher getting hit in the eye by a Patrick Elias shot a couple of years ago. (I’d look it up and link it, but I’m at work so I can’t get on YouTube.)

But it was the Devils’ broadcast and I had never heard that one. Chico was SO upset. It was very sweet. He was all, “Oh, noooo! Ooohhh nooo!!!!”

Makes me all misty.

That was a terrible sight, by the way. Watching my beloved Boucher face down on the ice kicking his feet. When a hockey player is writhing, you know it’s some major pain.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:43 pm Pookie

And I am fully aware that this may get me banned from IPB, but here goes: I cannot stand Doc Emerick. He drives me absolutely insane. In fact when they had him announcing during Sabres games during the playoffs, it was all could do to keep from muting the TV. Phew, I feel better getting that off my chest. Sorry, go ahead and take my IPBucks. all of ‘em.

Andrew. Andrew. If it weren’t so busy here right now, I would have immediately upon this discussion of announcers starting, sent a comment that I need to add Doc to my list of Off Limit Topics. Since it is crazy busy, I do not have the time to properly respond, just know I’m not happy. Not happy at all! *shakes head sadly*
on July 3, 2007 at 4:43 pm Mags

Patty, what am I searching for? I’ll pull it up.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:43 pm Earl Sleek

When a hockey player is writhing, you know it’s some major pain.

Or in the case of Mike Ribiero, that he’s a major pain.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:45 pm Heather B.

You have not lived until you’ve seen a small child dressed as Rick Jeanneret for Halloween. Oh, Lordy.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:46 pm andrew

“…actually can’t stand how Doc is used on NBC and VS. I don’t understand why have him call games that way…”

That sounds like a fair deal. I have only watched a handful of games from the NJ feed, therefore I have no opinion on his PXP call there. All I know is that when the Sabres/Rangers were playing, the broadcast was completely unlistenable. Therefore, because of a mere handful of playoff games I am feuding with Doc forever!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:46 pm Patty

Mags, it’s Philippe Boucher, against the Devils, hit by puck, eye injury, things like that. I’d start with Philippe Boucher and see if it comes to the top. He’s not the highlight machine exactly.

Or in the case of Mike Ribiero, that he’s a major pain.

Yeah? Hmm. We didn’t see to much of that in Dallas. Probably because he wasn’t feeling the pressure of the Montreal fans making fun of that ridiculous hat he wears. :D
on July 3, 2007 at 4:46 pm Schnookie

Chico was SO upset. It was very sweet. He was all, “Oh, noooo! Ooohhh nooo!!!!”

Hee hee! That’s Chico! He’s so dim, but so sweet.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:47 pm Patty

Sheesh! I can’t type. I meant TOO much in Dallas.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:48 pm andrew

“You have not lived until you’ve seen a small child dressed as Rick Jeanneret for Halloween. Oh, Lordy.”

That is the greatest thing I have ever heard. holy crap, that would be funny.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:50 pm Schnookie

Therefore, because of a mere handful of playoff games I am feuding with Doc forever!

That’s the spirit, andrew! I’m feuding with Marty McSorley over much less!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:50 pm Patty

I agree about the NBC broadcasts. I don’t know how I’d feel about that Ozcyk (or however you spell it) guy, if he weren’t being told to pump up the fake tension with Pierre, but I think with just Doc and somebody else it would have been much better.

I figure there’s real tension between them, but I think it only came up in the first game or two and the rest of the season and into the playoffs they tried to falsify it.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:52 pm Patty

Also, if I weren’t at work, I could SO totally put up a link. Thanks to Mags!

(Just one L in Philippe, by the way.)
on July 3, 2007 at 4:52 pm CapsChick

Anyone want to bet how long before we lose interest in the Caps? I’m calling under 20 games.

Wow. I turn my back for one minute (okay, a week…) and you’re already backing away from my boys. I won’t let it happen, I won’t let the Wild take their spot.

Remember Ovie and his sex-eyes! Remember Chris Clark and his poor shattered mouth! Remember the HOTTNESS!

…ahem. So. How’s everyone doing? Enjoying this delightful free agency period or is it just me? :D
on July 3, 2007 at 4:53 pm Pookie

Listen, I love Rick and Jim too. I like that they’re goofy and that they spend airtime discussing the missing seat pillow. I like Rob Ray’s earnestness. I even like watching Robitaille lose his shit over everything. But Doc is the master. The master! If you want to say you don’t like him, fine, but please, for the sake of my sanity, please always add the qualifier: “… On Vs.” Because if you haven’t seen Doc in action for a Devils game on FSNY, you haven’t seen the real Doc.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:53 pm andrew

I think Edzo (that’s what Doc calls him…constantly….Edzo) did okay during the playoffs. He’s a far better color man than he is a coach.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:53 pm Earl Sleek

(Just one L in Philippe, by the way.)

One L, that should be easy enough to remember. Just like the playoff series against Ottawa!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:53 pm Heather B.

andrew, if I had a scanner and access to my brother-in-laws photos, I’d post it. My nephew, who was probably 7 or 8 at the time, dressed up as RJ complete with pants, a pillow belly, suspenders, and floured hair. It was awesome.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:54 pm CapsChick

I just realized that Caps comment was like an hour ago…forgive me, my brain is a bit fried because I had jury duty yesterday and today, so yeah. I’m just reading what I want to read.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:54 pm Mags

Patty, Bouch ain’t getting a whole lot of love. I’ll keep at it though.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:54 pm Schnookie

Oh, CC! I totally didn’t see you there… Uhh… heh heh… so, uh, how’s it going?

Yes, I have to keep remembering, I love the Ovie, and I like the broadcast team. That’s a really good start…
on July 3, 2007 at 4:54 pm Katebits

Mair does a pretty good RJ imitation. They had him do it during intermission once, when he was on the IR and in the booth. Hilarious.

Really? Hmm, very interesting. I’m writing that in my ledger.

I’m sorry I’m so unable to contribute to any sort of conversation. I have a one track mind today: Replace Hockey Boyfriend
on July 3, 2007 at 4:55 pm andrew

“My nephew, who was probably 7 or 8 at the time, dressed up as RJ complete with pants, a pillow belly, suspenders, and floured hair. It was awesome.”

I hope he didn’t forget the turtleneck!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:55 pm Vinny

Remember the HOTTNESS!

You were doing okay until there I think :P
on July 3, 2007 at 4:55 pm Schnookie

How’d the jury duty go, CC? Was it as much fun as mine was?
on July 3, 2007 at 4:55 pm Pookie

CC, there’s no expirary date on comments here at IPB! If there was, I’d not be allowed to comment at all today. I think I’m about 300 comments behind.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:56 pm Earl Sleek

Oilers sign Garon! Problems are solved!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:56 pm Meg

How do you watch telecasts without imitating the exciteMENT IN THE GUY’S VOICE WHEN OH MY GOD THE PUCK IS IN THE ZONE AND HOLY SHIT IT’S NEAR THE GOALLINE! but then the goalie makes the save and you found out it was a routine play the whole time.

As someone who has had cause to listen lots of games on the radio, I can tell you that he’s pretty much the best broadcaster to listen to if you can’t see the picture, even if he does scare my cats. While he is a bit overly e
xcitable, and his goal calls don’t need to be that long, he really turns the game into a story and makes it easy to follow without visuals. Also he’s an institution. You can’t knock that.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:56 pm Patty

Hey, CapsChick! I changed my mind on the over/under. I’ll take over. In honor of you.

I have a question for you, too. Am I crazy, or is Jeff Halpern pretty hot? I really like him, and being the defense-lover I am, I really like the way he plays. I just wonder what the opinion is of someone that’s watched him for a few years? Is there something I should know?
on July 3, 2007 at 4:58 pm Sherry

Allrighty, I’m back for another furious round of refreshing. I really hope the Internet upstairs works.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:58 pm Schnookie

I always thought Halpern was hot, but partly because he went to Princeton.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:59 pm Pookie

Also he’s an institution. You can’t knock that.

And Doc isn’t? ;)

Patty, I’ve always thought Halpern was cute. It’s the Princeton thing, I think.

And on that note, I’m finally getting to go home. No early exit for me just because it’s a holiday. I’ve myself a nice nap. When I wake up and come back, I expect you all to be keeping this Doc hate under wraps!
on July 3, 2007 at 4:59 pm CapsChick

It was a laugh riot, lady. I went in yesterday and of course – OF COURSE – I get picked for a trial. So I had to go back today and decide some poor kid’s fate.

Actually, it wasn’t so bad. Kind of interesting, really. Inside the legal system of Washington, DC – it doesn’t get much more thrilling than that!

Vinny, my team is hott. The sooner you realize that the sooner the world will be a better place. I’m not talking about Ovie, because I realize I’m probably the only one who finds him cute – some of the others though? Go do a google search for Ben Clymer. Matt Pettinger. Brooks Laich. Boyd Gordon. Even Chris Clark is pretty cute.

Puck bunny moment complete. :D
on July 3, 2007 at 4:59 pm Patty

I think Edzo (that’s what Doc calls him…constantly….Edzo) did okay during the playoffs.

That’s why I didn’t want to say I didn’t like him. But I didn’t like his “banter” with Pierre. Might be because of my loathing of Pierre.
on July 3, 2007 at 4:59 pm Katebits

Halpern=hot. I just looked him up. He’s in the ledger.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:01 pm Schnookie

I’m off to the grocery store now, and then, because it’s Mini Friday, I think I’ll enjoy a nice little nap, too. I’m exhausted after all this elation today!

Sorry to be leaving just when you got back, Sherry! I swear it’s just a coincidence!
on July 3, 2007 at 5:01 pm CapsChick

Am I crazy, or is Jeff Halpern pretty hot?

Jeff Halpern is VERY hot…whether or not you’re crazy, that’s a different issue ;)

Jeffy-poo was my favorite player when he was here – and yes, I called him Jeffy-poo…although not to complete strangers, which I realized I just did, so yeah. He’s the man.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:02 pm Genna

“I knew that the decision [to sign with the Devils] would be a hockey decision.” Zubrus said via conference call. “I want to win and that’s why I wanted to come here. I believe in this team and the success they’ve had.”

Loving today. I want to see plenty of hip-checking action
on July 3, 2007 at 5:03 pm andrew

Kate, keeping a ledger is key. I can imagine you furiously scribbling down names as you get pics, player facts, etc.

Patty, I think just about everyone loathes Pierre. Unlike some other broadcast guys *cough*Doc*cough* you don’t have to hide it around here!
on July 3, 2007 at 5:03 pm Meg

Also he’s an institution. You can’t knock that.

And Doc isn’t? ;)

Pookie, I wasn’t the one bashing Doc. But that said, Rick has been doing the Sabres broadcasts since well before the Devils existed. In Kansas City.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:04 pm Patty

Schnookie: I always thought Halpern was hot, but partly because he went to Princeton.

Pookie: Patty, I’ve always thought Halpern was cute. It’s the Princeton thing, I think..

Are y’all like, twins er sumthin’?

Not only Princeton, but also Economics. Rawr! And also naturally blonde.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:05 pm Schnookie

It was a laugh riot, lady. I went in yesterday and of course – OF COURSE – I get picked for a trial. So I had to go back today and decide some poor kid’s fate.

I was really hoping I’d get picked to sit on a trial when I got called last year. I got as far as juror screening (for a really big-time murder trial, actually, or as big-time as any murder trial in Trenton gets), but ended up getting pulled off the jury by the prosecutor. I guess they didn’t want any young, single women on the jury since the victim of the murder had been a young, single woman. It almost makes sense, that thought process… But anyway, I thought it would have been really interesting to get to be involved in it, and the judge before the jury selection gave us all a rah-rah speech about the American justice system and how this is our chance, as citizens, to make the system work. Very stirring.

And yes, I should add, in the interest of full disclosure, that the Caps are smoking hott, and that’s another reason we’ve added them to our list.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:07 pm Vinny

But CC I like your team! Doesn’t it make it even better that I like your team a lot even though I don’t think they’re all smoking hot (like ah, i’m hearing now?)
on July 3, 2007 at 5:07 pm Patty

although not to complete strangers, which I realized I just did, so yeah

There aren’t any strangers in here. Unless that Gerbtard guy is lurking.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:13 pm Patty

Bouch ain’t getting a whole lot of love. I’ll keep at it though.

Mags, don’t go to too much trouble. I’ll find it when I get home and post it here later on.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:15 pm Mags

Naw, I’m on a mission now.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:15 pm CapsChick

the judge before the jury selection gave us all a rah-rah speech about the American justice system and how this is our chance, as citizens, to make the system work. Very stirring

Ha! We got the same speech, although she also kept thanking us for serving. I was sitting there thinking, yes. I chose to serve instead of pay a fine and/or go to jail – tough choice. But no, it was actually pretty cool.

that the Caps are smoking hott, and that’s another reason we’ve added them to our list

Damn right!

even though I don’t think they’re all smoking hot
BUT THEY ARE! You’ll see. I’ll show you the light.

Patty: Clearly I have to go back and look up this Gerbtard thing, find out what that’s all about! But yes, true, I’ve discussed more embarrassing things with y’all than “Jeffy-Poo”…
on July 3, 2007 at 5:15 pm Sherry

Not only Princeton, but also Economics. Rawr!

Okay, why do all the good-looking Economics majors go to all the schools that’s not MINE?
on July 3, 2007 at 5:19 pm Earl Sleek

There aren’t any strangers in here. Unless that Gerbtard guy is lurking.

Gerbtard knows us better than we know ourselves.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:20 pm Patty

Okay, why do all the good-looking Economics majors go to all the schools that’s not MINE?

Well, there’s just the one, so far. :P
on July 3, 2007 at 5:22 pm Patty

CC, don’t trouble yourself to look him up. He’s a just a meanie that popped in to be mean.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:23 pm Sherry

Well, there’s just the one, so far. :P

And Preissing, I guess.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:23 pm Earl Sleek

And Sleek.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:25 pm Sherry

And Sleek.

Really you were an econ major? Or do you just have no idea what we’re actually talking about :P
on July 3, 2007 at 5:25 pm Patty

You’re a hot Economics major, Sleek?

I stand corrected!
on July 3, 2007 at 5:27 pm Mags

I think only Oil and I get to say whether Earl is hot or not. But whatever answer I give, I’m going to get punched. So, hehehehe, myyyysteryyyyy.

Patty, I went through everything I could think of. Nothing. Boo YouTube!
on July 3, 2007 at 5:27 pm Patty

Are you and Econ major, Sherry?

I have a useless degree. But I’m a fan of the study of economics. On my list of things I should have gotten a degree in.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:29 pm Earl Sleek

Really you were an econ major? Or do you just have no idea what we’re actually talking about :P

Both!
on July 3, 2007 at 5:29 pm Patty

Stupid YouTube! Hopefully I have a bookmark somewhere. I would have said it might have been Google videos, but I think that’s YouTube now.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:31 pm Patty

I should clarify. My degree isn’t useless, per se. I’ve just made poor use of it. I got a degree in one field, then never even set foot in that field.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:32 pm Sherry

Are you and Econ major, Sherry?

Heh, no. I’m a Commerce major but I have to take a butt-load of Econ courses. And no, none of them were Halpern-hot or Preissing-cute. Sadly.

Wild sign Nolan Schaefer.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:33 pm Mags

My degree isn’t useless, per se. I’ve just made poor use of it. I got a degree in one field, then never even set foot in that field.

Which is you know, totally the way to go :P

CC! If you’re still around, DAMN YOU! WHY IS OVIE SO CUTESY?! I swore to God I was never going to like him because he’s such a good scorer and I hate good scorers but HOT DAMN.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:35 pm CapsChick

Wild sign Nolan Schaefer

Is it just me or do we seem to be getting to the gritty end of the UFA frenzy? Leaving…hmmm…Souray. HA! Love it.

Speaking of useless degrees, I was a history major and a sociology minor. I think the only thing that tops that is being a psych major, unless you actually become a psychologist.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:35 pm Steph

I go away for an hour. ONE. HOUR.

And the Oilers make me hate them more. I swear. I’m not sure I’m getting through this season.

Back to the Wings I suppose.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:35 pm andrew

CC, I always root for the Caps! (when they’re not playing the Sabres.) My favorite was a few years back, ‘02-’03 I think. Adam Foote picked a fight with Brian Sutherby, who was only like 19 or 20 at the time, and got his ass handed to him. It was pretty funny.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:38 pm andrew

and ‘ll jump into the useless degree fray. Political Science major with a Sociology minor. yeah, gonna use that one a lot.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:38 pm Jordi

I was about to scream that I had a friend who goes to Princeton but he didn’t play hockey and he was not-hot.

But yes, true, I’ve discussed more embarrassing things with y’all than “Jeffy-Poo”…

Even though I’m not sure about the context I can happily say that she left the cinema at one time because she was scared of Jurassic Park.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:38 pm CapsChick

DAMN YOU! WHY IS OVIE SO CUTESY?! I swore to God I was never going to like him because he’s such a good scorer and I hate good scorers but HOT DAMN.

Heeeeee…I know! You really can’t fight it, he’s just too damn cute. I’m hoping these rumors I’m hearing about a loooooong contract extension (think 9 years!) are true…speaking of which, here’s what he said today:

“Have you started talking to the Capitals about an extension?: ‘It’s a little bit secret.’”

Seriously, so cute.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:41 pm Jordi

ARTS DEGREE *slams head*. Even my mum reminds me everyday that it will only lead me to pain and suffering.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:42 pm Mags

Oh, and speaking of degrees. I decided a long time ago that I wanted to be an oro-facial surgeon. study dentistry and added extra surgery courses. Lots of dissecting human heads. (do you see why I very rarely eat meat?)
on July 3, 2007 at 5:43 pm Mags

You really can’t fight it

You can’t make me. Nu-uh. You can’t make a goalie love a guy with that sort of gift. Nu-uh. No way.

“It’s a little bit secret.”

Damn. Nail in my coffin.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:43 pm Steph

CREATIVE WRITING.

Never. Getting. A job. (As proven this summer, I don’t even have to be trying to use that degree for these effects to kick in.)
on July 3, 2007 at 5:43 pm Earl Sleek

(do you see why I very rarely eat meat?)

Of course! To be the best oro-facial surgeon you can possibly be!

(Have you considered performing oboe-facial surgery, by the way? That’s where the future’s at!)
on July 3, 2007 at 5:44 pm CapsChick

Oh, good. Jordi is here to bring that up AGAIN. Thanks, hon.

Andrew, Sutsy is 25 and still gets his ass handed to him when he fights, so that’s not surprising…he’s one of my faves, though, too. Funny guy.

OH! Add Sutsy to the hot register! Forgot about him.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:46 pm Patty

I’m picturing Ovie (can I call him that? I don’t follow him that much yet) in the mall, being followed by his agent.

He’s flicking hangers and occasionally holding something up. His agent is saying, “Seriously! Don’t tell anybody!”

Ovie: “How about this shirt?”
Agent: “If a reporter asks you, don’t tell him anything!!”
Ovie: “I won’t. Ooh! How about this shirt?”
Agent: “I’m telling you! It’s a secret! Don’t tell anybody!”
Ovie: (rolling eyes) “I got it! It’s secret! Sheesh!”
on July 3, 2007 at 5:47 pm Jordi

Oh, good. Jordi is here to bring that up AGAIN. Thanks, hon.

I thought I was sharing around the love! :(
on July 3, 2007 at 5:47 pm Sherry

Seriously, so cute.

I don’t know if I can find somebody who insists on beat-boxing through keytar solos cute though.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:48 pm Jordi

Patty, those shirts better be glittery or with holes in them! It’s Eurotrash or trash!
on July 3, 2007 at 5:48 pm andrew

no no! He beat up Foote! That’s why it was awesome! Adam Foote is a jerk!

So if it was in ‘02-’03 that would have made him around 20 or 21. He was just a tyke. I think he played in the Young Stars game that year, with Crunchy in goal!
on July 3, 2007 at 5:51 pm Patty

My degree is Advertising/PR. Actually a smart pick when you’re picking degrees. Ad people make lots of money, right? I was kind of over it before I got out. Thought I’d be a professional photographer instead. Then found out that you have to take a lot of lame pictures of oil tools to make a living. Instead of byoo-tee-ful landscapes that sell for thousands each.

I think I really wanted to be a photographic artist. Where I take a picture and you either buy it or you don’t. You don’t tell me what you need a picture of and then send me off to get it. Too stressful. Then, I realized that there’s just as much criticism aimed at you if you already took the picture. :D

So, off to be a psuedo-developer.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:51 pm CapsChick

no no! He beat up Foote!

Wait, he won? That’s my little scrapper! Yeah, he played (and, ahem, scored twice and was the MVP) in the YoungStars game. :D

Patty, everyone can call him Ovie. It’s okay. He likes it, I promise!

I don’t know if I can find somebody who insists on beat-boxing through keytar solos cute though.

Sherry, that’s going to need an explanation. Or a YouTube link.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:53 pm Patty

It’s Eurotrash or trash!

Haha! Of course! It’s a very exclusive euro-trash mall.
Lots of Dolce and Gabbana.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:54 pm andrew

“I don’t know if I can find somebody who insists on beat-boxing through keytar solos cute though.’

Good luck explaining that one Sherry. Do CC a favor and leave out the part with Briere spearing Ovie, it’s just gonna be upsetting.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:55 pm Sherry

My degree is Advertising/PR

That’s what I wanted to go into. Mostly PR as I don’t think I’m creative enough for advertising haha.

My dream job is to be a writer but since I don’t have the patience/talent to do that, it would be hockey photographer but since I don’t have the talent/resources to do that I’m stuck not having any clue what I should do with the rest of my life.

Sherry, that’s going to need an explanation.

Oh! Right, you weren’t here for our discovery of Ovie and Crunchy’s band ‘The Cheekbones’. Somebody else will have to explain. I have to cook dinner, haha.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:56 pm CapsChick

Steph, I have no doubt Rebecca’s going to make you change that post now!

Crap! After that Nylander thing I don’t think I have any happy Capitals things left in me! I’m doomed!

Tell you what, Steph – you say something nice about the Caps right here, right now, and we’ll call it even. We’ll even let the rest of the IPBers vote to see if it should pass as “nice”. Sound good? (Hell, I’m just happy anyone wrote their pro-Caps post…the list is tiny…)
on July 3, 2007 at 5:56 pm Jordi

I’ve been telling everyone since I was 12 that my dream job was Trophy Wife. Still no luck.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:56 pm CapsChick

leave out the part with Briere spearing Ovie

GRRRRRRRR…………………………………………….
on July 3, 2007 at 5:57 pm Jordi

FUCK YOU ALL WHO HAS TO GO TO WORK WHILE YOU ALL BRAID EACH OTHER’S HAIR AND SHIT!?

Sleep didn’t diffuse my anger… I think I have a problem.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:57 pm Mags

Somebody else will have to explain

You just know that’s going to be me in the end. I am helpless to resist a good clarification session.
on July 3, 2007 at 5:59 pm Steph

you say something nice about the Caps right here, right now, and we’ll call it even.

Ahem.

The Caps, unlike the Oilers, have a chance next season.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:00 pm andrew

Anyone looking for clarification on the Gerbtard, check comment 76 from the “The End of the Rafalski/Gomez Era” thread. All questions will be answered there.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:01 pm CapsChick

YAY! Steph, consider your debt paid…although every time I get excited about this season I just have to keep in the back of my mind the following words:

2003-04 Season

Come on, Mags – CLARIFY!
on July 3, 2007 at 6:01 pm Patty

Man, if I’d known of the awsomeness that must be the life of hockey team’s PR department, I’d have run with it.

I leaned more toward the Advertising, though. And also, I had only barely heard of hockey. So I way missed out. I’m thinking of applying for the job, though, and just showing them my degree. I’m sure I could do it once I got in the door.

Hockey photography would be so great. You know, they get to use the wireless flash trigger thingie at the arenas. So if you have that access, you get the house lighting. I wonder if that can be hacked. And just a regular girl could use it…
on July 3, 2007 at 6:04 pm andrew

He also makes an appearance again on comment 204.

And CC, the ‘cheekbones’ thing with Ovie and Crunchy started yesterday in the same thread around comment 387. It spun out of control fast.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:04 pm Patty

Mags, I think if you do a find on “babymaker”, it should take you right to it. :P
on July 3, 2007 at 6:06 pm Mags

Patty, I do hockey photography in my spare time (I’m amazed I can actually say this, I didn’t think I had so much free time) and it is THE BEST FUN. If you have the stamina to sort through hundreds of shots to find the perfect one.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:09 pm Patty

If you have the stamina to sort through hundreds of shots to find the perfect one.

That’s the first skill I learned in photography classes! I way over-shoot. It’s much cheaper to do that now.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:16 pm CapsChick

:^:::::::::::::::::::::

Crunchy and the Ovie-tones?? You guys are insane and I love it (and yes, I’m a slow reader…shut up).

Although I choose to ignore the mic-stand-to-Ovie’s-babymaker insertion simply because it will start what I predict to be a very ugly argument between me and any Sabres fans around here :P
on July 3, 2007 at 6:16 pm american oil

The Caps, unlike the Oilers, have a chance next season.

No the Caps just LIKE the Oilers have no chance next season.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:16 pm Sherry

Hockey photography would be so great. You know, they get to use the wireless flash trigger thingie at the arenas. So if you have that access, you get the house lighting. I wonder if that can be hacked. And just a regular girl could use it…

Oh GOODNESS. i Would be in HEAVEN if I could get the house lighting.

I love doing hockey photography in my spare time and it’s the best when you go to junior games when nobody cares if you’re up against the glass. I don’t have that great of a camera so everytime I shoot games, the lighting compensation isn’t enough and I’m dead-set against using the auto-flash.

That’s the first skill I learned in photography classes! I way over-shoot. It’s much cheaper to do that now.

Oh gosh, I WAY over-shoot than is healthy. Most of my friends think I’m strange/obsessive but I love just capturing everything because you never know which one’s the perfect moment.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:16 pm Mags

CC, can I just send you an email? This explanation is WAY long.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:17 pm CapsChick

Um, a.oil…OUCH! Bitter much? ;)
on July 3, 2007 at 6:18 pm CapsChick

Oh, Mags – I think I got it, Andrew pointed me in the right direction…but you can still send me an e-mail: capsfan82 (at) hotmail (dot) com – I love getting mail! :D

(It’s on my blog so I feel pretty secure publishing it here with you loons…)
on July 3, 2007 at 6:19 pm Mags

I don’t have that great of a camera

Make googley eyes at your parents. That’s how I got my DSLR. (and telling your parent’s friends you take sports pictures may net you the best lens known to man)
on July 3, 2007 at 6:20 pm Mags

CC, phew, I am saved. Trying to explain was driving me more insane than I already am.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:24 pm american oil

Um, a.oil…OUCH! Bitter much? ;)

Nope…….just accepting facts as they are…… :)
on July 3, 2007 at 6:25 pm andrew

Sorry CC, but I felt the mic-stand-nut-shot added a sense of depth and realism to the overall storyline.

And you can probably take a shot or two at Danny without fear of retribution, he’s a Flyer now, and probably dead to most of Irregulars at this point.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:28 pm Sherry

Make googley eyes at your parents. That’s how I got my DSLR. (and telling your parent’s friends you take sports pictures may net you the best lens known to man)

yeah, that just doesn’t work on my mom anymore. Nor has it ever, come to think of it.

Actually, if I told them I take sports pictures she’d be worrying about why I take so many sports pictures and why I’m not into…girlier things? Yes, she did grow up in the ’50s.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:30 pm Heather B.

And you can probably take a shot or two at Danny without fear of retribution, he’s a Flyer now, and probably dead to most of Irregulars at this point.

Kick his little hobbity ass!
on July 3, 2007 at 6:31 pm CapsChick

BRIERE IS A WHINY LITTLE HOBBIT!

Whew. I feel better, thanks Andrew :D

And on that note, I’m off to get some All-American pre-4th of July sushi. I’ll swing by later to read all the mean things you say about me, Ovie and my boys…so keep it clean.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:32 pm Gambler

it will start what I predict to be a very ugly argument between me and any Sabres fans around here

Have at, CC. We’ve been throwing Briere off cliffs left and right, so we can’t really blame Ovie for trying to break his neck. Make sure to finish the job next time, Alex! Okay… maybe that’s a little too far.

Actually… I just realized that not having Briere on my team anymore means I can give in to my Ovie love unhindered. Yay silver lining!
on July 3, 2007 at 6:33 pm american oil

Hey..>News Flash….

Fed Ex guy just delievered PP’s Devils hockey socks…….Oh yeah…..
on July 3, 2007 at 6:36 pm andrew

I have to admit, I still do harbor a teensy bit of ill will towards Ovie.

Any of you guys remember last season when the Caps were playing the Sabres and Ovie took a run at Biron when he was playing the puck? I thought that was a little low, but no big deal. It was funny because he got, like six fists to the dome immediately afterwards, and the look on his face was totally: “what the hell did I do?”
on July 3, 2007 at 6:44 pm Heather B.

Yeah, Ovie’s cheapshot was still well, cheap. And I do feel a little badly for Danny right now since yesterday’s press conference was basically 30 minutes of, “We didn’t want Danny but boy, are we sorry we lost Chris!”
on July 3, 2007 at 6:45 pm Sherry

“We didn’t want Danny but boy, are we sorry we lost Chris!”

I’m sure Danny will feel comforted by the pools of money he has waiting at home :P
on July 3, 2007 at 6:46 pm andrew

meh, i know the presser was bad, but both of those guys got paid waaaaaay too much.

And something I realized today…With his new contract, Scott Gomez is now getting paid more than Joe Thornton. That blew my freaking mind. Makes me sooooo glad I’m not a Ranger fan.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:48 pm andrew

And May just signed on for 2 more with the Ducks. Not to fear Earl! Bert and May? Suckerpunches galore!
on July 3, 2007 at 6:49 pm Heather B.

andrew, definitely both overpaid and I’m still not convinced the team sucks now but I’m feeling very lonely in that feeling.

Sherry, yeah, Danny did all right for himself. Still… for some reason I think he was sincere about wanting to stay here so it’s too bad the team didn’t really want him to stay. That said, have fun dealing with Philly, sucker!
on July 3, 2007 at 6:50 pm Katebits

.And I do feel a little badly for Danny right now since yesterday’s press conference was basically 30 minutes of, “We didn’t want Danny but boy, are we sorry we lost Chris!”

Totally. I don’t think Buffalo really helped at all with the old “5′9″ chip on Danny’s shoulder. You’d think he was chopped liver or something they way we’ve dismissed his leaving. Heh. My ex-S,PW seriously overshadowed the hobbit. I’m glad they’re gone. What a couple of tools.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:50 pm Katebits

I don’t think they suck either Heather! They’re punchy now!
on July 3, 2007 at 6:52 pm Gambler

I have to admit, I still do harbor a teensy bit of ill will towards Ovie.

Well, okay, maybe my love is not completely unhindered. No amount of Briere being a slag-faced hobbit whore will take the fun out of watching Goose punch Ovie right in the face. That was just way too enjoyable.

It’s just nice not to feel obligated to hate him, solely on the “you tried to kill my captain” principle.

Chris Niel is still a douchenozzle, though.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:52 pm Katebits

Wait. Who were you talking about?
on July 3, 2007 at 6:53 pm Heather B.

Well, Kate, you’re a given. That’s why we’re going to be partying with on the bench the boys on opening night while the rest of the whiners and bandwagoners are buring their tickets.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:54 pm Heather B.

Or “burning” even!
on July 3, 2007 at 6:56 pm Mags

I didn’t know whether you were going for burning, buying or burying there Heather. So many possibilities!
on July 3, 2007 at 6:56 pm Katebits

You know, Heather. I’m coming around. I think in the end, my ex-S,PW came off as a little bit petty today. I mean, what are you, twelve? You couldn’t wait a few days for your 23 million dollar contract? Shut up, S,PW. You’re lame.

OPening night is going to ROCK! I’m going to start making “WE BELIEVE IN YOU!” signs tonight.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:57 pm Heather B.

What?
on July 3, 2007 at 6:57 pm andrew

I don’t think the Sabres suck at all now! then again I was still watching all 82 games when they were in BK and clinging to the bottom of the EC standings. So I might not be the best person to judge on that one.
on July 3, 2007 at 6:58 pm Sherry

Somethin’ rotten is going down in Oiler land!

http://oilers.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=327124
on July 3, 2007 at 7:01 pm american oil

WOw…..um…not looking good for CC. Lowe is just enough of an asshole to make sure he doesn’t go to the Caps if he feels slighted.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:01 pm Gambler

for some reason I think he was sincere about wanting to stay here so it’s too bad the team didn’t really want him to stay.

I feel sort of bad about this, too. But, you know, not too bad because the 10 million he’s making next year will make him forget how much he loved us, I’m sure.

And I don’t think they suck, either! If I had tickets to burn, I totally wouldn’t.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:01 pm Mags

Hoh shtick. That could get bad.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:02 pm Heather B.

andrew, this is what I’m saying! We’re not going to be that team next year! Why is everyone panicking? Okay, you come opening night too but only Kate and I get to sit on the bench with the boys, okay?

Kate, my husband called me and literally the first thing he said to me was, “His agent can’t call and say, ‘Hey, how’s it going with that contract? Do you need a copy of Chris’s birth certificate or what?’ That’s bullshit!” And I think Crunchy’s quote in this morning’s paper has pushed him toward getting a Miller jersey. “Yeah, fuck them!”
on July 3, 2007 at 7:03 pm Katebits

Wow. That looks fugly.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:05 pm Heather B.

Yeah, that does not seem like it can end well.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:06 pm Gambler

“His agent can’t call and say, ‘Hey, how’s it going with that contract? Do you need a copy of Chris’s birth certificate or what?’ That’s bullshit!”

Hah! That husband of yours, Heather. He’s a keeper.

I’m convinced there’s more to this story, which is why it’s ridiculous that the Buffalo News is trying to pass it off as the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Also, Kate, Drury’s “I think they could have showed a little more urgency” quote was totally petty. He doesn’t deserve you.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:07 pm Katebits

Kate, my husband called me and literally the first thing he said to me was, “His agent can’t call and say, ‘Hey, how’s it going with that contract? Do you need a copy of Chris’s birth certificate or what?’

Totally, Heather’s husband!

This isn’t 4th grade, Chris Drury. I think he’s dead to me Heather! He is a little baby. PLUS, to make matters even more fabulous, Crunchy was a little bit of SEXY, PASSIONATE WARRIOR in the paper this morning! Thems fighting words Crunchy! I love it!

I listened to sports radio this afternoon and it made me happy. Weird.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:08 pm Mags

Oil is right though. Lowe is such a slimy jerk, and I bet he doesn’t like to be out-slimed. If they really go for legal action and have more than half a foot to stand on that could really sting.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:09 pm Heather B.

Also, Kate, Drury’s “I think they could have showed a little more urgency” quote was totally petty. He doesn’t deserve you.

I can’t always tell when we’re kind of joking about Drury or being totally serious but really this whole “I didn’t know if they really wanted me” angle is crap. They brought you here, put a C on your chest, and announced that they were going to build the team around you. They got rid of players you didn’t think would work (bye, Satan!) and brought in player you thought would (hello, Grier!). And you’re not sure they want you back? Good lord.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:09 pm andrew

“Okay, you come opening night too but only Kate and I get to sit on the bench with the boys, okay?”

Had they made it to the SCF this year I totally would have been there! I told my wife that we were going to fly out to B-Lo and go to a game if they made it that far.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:10 pm Amy

Sounds like Nylander double-crossed Ottawa and his agent at the same time.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:10 pm Amy

Gah, not Ottawa, Edmonton.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:11 pm Steph

My hatred for Lowe is so strong that I even have a hard time feeling sorry for the Oilers.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:12 pm Vinny

even though I don’t think they’re all smoking hot
BUT THEY ARE! You’ll see. I’ll show you the light.

I’ll be waiting :0

Oh but it does suck to be GMGM right now… I’m hoping they did everything proper so that Edmonton can’t do anything about it :X.

heather, what was Crunchy’s quote 0.0?
on July 3, 2007 at 7:12 pm Katebits

Well, if you want to come to Buffalo for opening night andrew you should. People are talking about boycotting! We’ll be the only people there. Heather and I are going to sit on the bench with the players (they’re gonna love us because, well, we’ll be the only people there.)
on July 3, 2007 at 7:12 pm american oil

Um…I can’t imagine Lowe going public unless he has a pretty good leg to stand on…which mean, Nylanders AGENT IS FUCKED. (By proxy Nylander as well…but he will blame it on the agent).
on July 3, 2007 at 7:13 pm Katebits

Poor everyone involved with that mess. Dang.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:14 pm andrew

“People are talking about boycotting!”

People are stupid, aren’t they?
on July 3, 2007 at 7:16 pm Vinny

People are definitely stupid.

I’ll drive all the way down from Kingston to be there if that’s true :D class be damned.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:17 pm Heather B.

andrew, yes they really are. Hey, Buffalo, you do understand that we don’t have to take the roster we have RIGHT NOW into the playoffs? And that the roster we have RIGHT NOW is a pretty good start?

Crunchy’s quote: “It’s a hard time for a lot of guys, but [Drury and Briere] better hope they didn’t teach us too much because they’re going to have to contend against us. Leadership is changing hands on our team, but the attitude still will be there. I’m going to make sure to the best of my abilities to keep them in our rear-view mirror.”
on July 3, 2007 at 7:18 pm american oil

Hey…is this a new Sabers Blog?????? I am confused……
on July 3, 2007 at 7:20 pm andrew

It is today, Oil.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:22 pm Mags

I’m out of here. Catch me on IM if you need me.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:24 pm american oil

I am with Mags. Chat with you in the next couple of days after Black Sunday has worn off you all!

Have a great 4th of July.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:27 pm andrew

I gotta bounce too. Off work! I’m outta here!

You guys all have a safe 4th! Get drunk and sunburned and have some fun!
on July 3, 2007 at 7:27 pm Heather B.

Happy 4th!

Geez, is it just me or did we just chase all the non-Sabres fans out of the room?
on July 3, 2007 at 7:29 pm Katebits

Oil, seems to hate the Sabres talk. I would happily talk about the oilers, but I don’t know shit about them. Do they have any animals-of-affairs? Large cabooses? Cranky goalies?

I hate to go too, but I have to head down to the baseball field and play Stars and Stripes for a bunch of people who just want the fireworks to start. Heh.

Drury sucks Heather! We’re better off without his whiny butt!
on July 3, 2007 at 7:29 pm Katebits

Bye everybody!
on July 3, 2007 at 7:30 pm Heather B.

That’s right!

Have fun, Kate! Don’t hit any bad notes!
on July 3, 2007 at 7:31 pm Steph

I’m still here…but all I have to say re: Sabres is TY CONKLIN STILL NOT SIGNED.

So maybe it’s better I go too :b
on July 3, 2007 at 7:31 pm Mags

Oil ain’t the only one.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:36 pm Gambler

*shuts up about the Sabres*

Damn… This Nylander deal is looking ugly. But the dude was a Ranger, so what do you expect? They’re all doublecrossers.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:38 pm Amy

Kate, watch for Buster making his way through the orchestra during the show!

Hockeybuzz says the Islanders are close to making a major deal. Do they have anyone left to trade other than DiPietro and the contract that ate Long Island?
on July 3, 2007 at 7:39 pm Genna

Oh no, it appears that we just lost Lukowich. Link
on July 3, 2007 at 7:40 pm Earl Sleek

The Islanders? Don’t forget about Chris Simon, who might be eligible to play sometime in December or something.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:42 pm Sherry

There was something up on Spector that said Brendan Morrison was listed as an Islander but when I went to check it was fixed and he was a Canuck once more. Might have just been a false alarm :P
on July 3, 2007 at 7:46 pm Earl Sleek

Probably a prank from some of Brendan Morrison’s nerdy friends. “Dude, you’re an Islander, check it out,” but then they tell him the truth before he can pull the trigger.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:52 pm Sherry

Probably a prank from some of Brendan Morrison’s nerdy friends. “Dude, you’re an Islander, check it out,” but then they tell him the truth before he can pull the trigger.

Those are some awful awful friends. There are pranks and then there’s trauma.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:53 pm Earl Sleek

OK: the Oilers can have Nylander Mondays through Thursdays, but the Caps get him Fridays and weekends. In the event of an Oilers-Capitals game, Chris Drury will flip a golden puck to decide not only Nylander’s team, but the final score as well.
on July 3, 2007 at 7:54 pm Sherry

Stuart’s a King!

http://tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=212663&hubname=nhl
on July 3, 2007 at 7:56 pm Earl Sleek

Damn. Blake, Johnson, Visnovsky, Stuart, Preissing, Modry?

You going to just sit there and retire now, Scotty?
on July 3, 2007 at 7:59 pm Vinny

Wow :X LA’s looking preeeeeetty damn good right now :0 I have to say I’m not sad. at all :D yay LA.

OK: the Oilers can have Nylander Mondays through Thursdays, but the Caps get him Fridays and weekends. In the event of an Oilers-Capitals game, Chris Drury will flip a golden puck to decide not only Nylander’s team, but the final score as well.

That inter-conference game wouldn’t happen in what, ah..two years? three? XD. Thanks Gary.

But it’s looking pretty messy :X esp if the Caps knew…that’s tampering :x
on July 3, 2007 at 8:00 pm Vinny

The Oilers resign Torres though, which is good :)
on July 3, 2007 at 8:04 pm Sherry

Damn. Blake, Johnson, Visnovsky, Stuart, Preissing, Modry?

You going to just sit there and retire now, Scotty?

Well, of course. I guess he mind as well now!

Has the Kings actually resigned Vishnovsky yet though?
on July 3, 2007 at 8:07 pm Earl Sleek

I think Visnovsky’s already signed for next year. Incidentally, so is Oleg Tverdovsky, but I don’t know what his plans are.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:12 pm Sherry

but I don’t know what his plans are.

You don’t? Way to drop the ball!

[Yeah, I might be a little bored...you think BBeR will be mad at me if I decide to go play Guitar Hero instead?]
on July 3, 2007 at 8:15 pm Pookie

Oh no, it appears that we just lost Lukowich.

Aw, I liked Chocosnitch. Oh well, I wish him luck in Tampa. He did good for us this year, and I appreciate that.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:20 pm Gambler

[Yeah, I might be a little bored…you think BBeR will be mad at me if I decide to go play Guitar Hero instead?]

Listen, Sherry, IPB freely supports (some say requires) ditching doing work to hang out in these comment threads all day, but shirking your hockey duties? That kind of insolence is not tolerated. Now drop and give me twenty hits of that refresh button!
on July 3, 2007 at 8:22 pm Pookie

Wow, this Oilers stuff outta be interesting. There’s no way that turns out well for anyone. It’s already been worth what trouble is causes though for Earl’s comment about joint custody! :^:::::::::::::;
on July 3, 2007 at 8:25 pm Pookie

Returning to the conversation from about 150 comments ago vis a vis useless degrees, I like Steph might take the prize. I dread applying for jobs because my undergrad degree is a BFA in Technical Theater. I might as well have a giant header saying “UNHIREABLE” across the top.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:29 pm Sherry

That kind of insolence is not tolerated. Now drop and give me twenty hits of that refresh button!

[hangs head] Yes ma’am.

I dread applying for jobs because my undergrad degree is a BFA in Technical Theater. I might as well have a giant header saying “UNHIREABLE” across the top.

Don’t say that! My friend is a rather generic “Theatre and Film” major and I’m sure she would prefer to be employed!
on July 3, 2007 at 8:30 pm Patty

Naw, I’m on a mission now.

Sorry, Mags. I finally found the link to the video I was talking about WAY earlier, and it’s been removed from YouTube. I thought the NHL was okay with them. Maybe it belonged to the Devils. I bet Lou’s not okay with them.

I hope you’re not still looking for it, Mags. Maybe it’ll pop up somewhere soon.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:31 pm Patty

“Dude, you’re an Islander, check it out,” but then they tell him the truth before he can pull the trigger.

I don’t have access to the awards, Sleek, but I laughed out loud.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:32 pm Mags

Patty, that’s what I was afraid off. Stupid YouTube.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:33 pm Sherry

I bet Lou’s not okay with them.

I bet Lou fired whoever it was that posted them. Even if he wasn’t employed by him.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:34 pm Earl Sleek

In the event of an Oilers-Capitals game, Chris Drury will flip a golden puck to decide not only Nylander’s team, but the final score as well.

I forgot to mention that obviously right afterwards Mark Messier will give his leadership award to Drury for being such a gamebreaker. Well, actually he’ll mostly just get the award for being such a Ranger, but this will be mentioned if there’s time.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:35 pm Patty

Oh no, it appears that we just lost Lukowich.

Nice kid. Was one of my first hockey boyfriends. But when he was traded (on his wedding day, as I recall), the screen door hadn’t slammed shut before I pretty much forgot about him. I was fickle in my hockey-fan youth.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:38 pm Patty

Man, that Oiler thing really could get nasty. That is pretty souray of them to sign with somebody else while the fax is still spitting out the contracts that Lowe sent them.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:47 pm Sherry

That is pretty souray of them to sign with somebody else while the fax is still spitting out the contracts that Lowe sent them.

Maybe Nylander’s agent thought it WAS the Lowe contract and failed to see check the letterhead before asking Nylander to sign it. Always check the Letterhead people! This never would have happened with Lou’s new copy boy!

This is completely unrelated but the boy in my house was checking to see if the mustard had expired…by squeezing the bottle which caused mustard to get all over his face. And shirt. Man, I wish I had a picture of the moment. Laundry time will be painful though, I’m sure.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:48 pm Vinny

Apparently it’s not really all that big of deal? Because it depends on what the “in writing” all means. I don’t quite remember the CBA but I think only certain written agreements are labelled as ah..source documents? or something that can be legally used against. Letter of Intents aren’t.

Plus Edmonton said they never had a firm deal with Nylander in one of the interviews prior to the Nylander signing (damnit i can’t find the quote). I doubt if the media (team something or other) hadn’t leaked out the possible nylander to edmonton-ness the Oilers wouldn’t have made such a big fuss.

I mean honestly :X if you were Nylander would you play with Hemsky (sorry Steph :X) or would you play with Ovechkin?
on July 3, 2007 at 8:51 pm Steph

I mean honestly :X if you were Nylander would you play with Hemsky (sorry Steph :X) or would you play with Ovechkin?

Hey now :(
on July 3, 2007 at 8:52 pm Patty

This never would have happened with Lou’s new copy boy!

So true! People pooh-pooh the importance of a good copy boy, but we now see what can happen.
on July 3, 2007 at 8:53 pm Pookie

I wish I was artistically inclined enough to write the graphic novel: “D.avid Conte, SuperCopyBoy”
on July 3, 2007 at 8:54 pm Earl Sleek

I mean honestly :X if you were Nylander would you play with Hemsky (sorry Steph :X) or would you play with Ovechkin?

Well, being a Tuesday, probably Hemsky, but later this week I might change my mind!
on July 3, 2007 at 8:56 pm Vinny

Well, being a Tuesday, probably Hemsky, but later this week I might change my mind!

:^:::::::::::;;;

Earl I think you should flip your earlier comment around XD
on July 3, 2007 at 8:56 pm Mags

Earl, is that a blatant attempt at sucking up to Steph, all in the hope that she will let go of the feud? Or am I seeing things :P
on July 3, 2007 at 9:06 pm Mags

DINGDING! Threaddeath!
on July 3, 2007 at 9:07 pm Sherry

Sorry Mags. I’m still attempting to live-blog at BBeR but it’s been a generally slow day. I’ve taken to entertain myself with a guitar rather than a plastic video game one though.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:07 pm Mags

LaBarbera re-signed I see. Interesting.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:08 pm Vinny

TSN says Kozlov is close to signing with Dallas though right? and somethingmumblejumble about Shanahan.

I’m still so anxious (? anticipating?) where souray is gonna go XD
on July 3, 2007 at 9:09 pm Sherry

Yeah there’s a sports station that says Kozlov is close too. Shanny is still keen on staying in New York I think (evil).
on July 3, 2007 at 9:10 pm Mags

Yeah Shanny is getting one of those “I’m over 35, sign me for little money and gimme incentives instead” contracts.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:16 pm Earl Sleek

Mags, those are known as Selanne contracts now. :P
on July 3, 2007 at 9:18 pm Mags

Earl, thank you for the hockey contract naming lesson :P
on July 3, 2007 at 9:32 pm Gambler

Returning to the conversation from about 150 comments ago vis a vis useless degrees, I like Steph might take the prize. I dread applying for jobs because my undergrad degree is a BFA in Technical Theater.

Aw, Pookie, don’t worry. I’m in the midst of getting a double degree in Theater (acting) and German. The glassy, confused looks people give me when I tell them that combination of majors is priceless. But tech theater people are some of the cookest people I know! Well, by my cook standards, at least.

Shanny is still keen on staying in New York I think (evil).

What? Does he not read IPB? Has he no sense of impending doom?
on July 3, 2007 at 9:32 pm Mags

She done it once, she done it twice.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:33 pm Vinny

Hahaha even if Shanahan settled for incentive base, he’s not getting less than 2.5 :X

not if people like Handzeus and Bertuzzi et al are commanding 4 :X

I might want Kozlov to come play on Sundin’s other wing :X. But uhh that would be if we traded some D and some of our over-numbered extra third/fourth liner forwards :X
on July 3, 2007 at 9:34 pm Vinny

Shanny is still keen on staying in New York I think (evil).

What? Does he not read IPB? Has he no sense of impending doom?

NOOO Gambler he has to! :D to further feed the over-ego-ed NYR locker room :D Plus he has to, to kick up the NYR cap another notch and make way for the Lundy offer sheet :D
on July 3, 2007 at 9:35 pm Patty

Hey, EC people, what’s Slava Kozlov like? Is he somebody worth having? He’s older than I thought. Did he overly benefit from playing with Hossa? Or would he be a good pickup for us?

While I have watched a few Thrashers games, I wasn’t paying much attention to him.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:39 pm Vinny

Patty – he’s good at shootouts, you can definitely benefit from Hossa, but he’s a quality winger, and I’d pay him 4 mil per 3 years. If he wants longer I would go for less, and on market value I’d say he could probably push his price closer to 4.5 :X

He’d be a good first line winger with a great center, or a really good second line winger :).
on July 3, 2007 at 9:39 pm Sherry

I don’t know much about him and I’m biased and loathe to say anybody benefits from playing with Hossa [which is obviously not true]. All I know is that he had the Senators’ number. And I therefore wouldn’t mind having him :D
on July 3, 2007 at 9:42 pm Gambler

NOOO Gambler he has to! :D to further feed the over-ego-ed NYR locker room :D Plus he has to, to kick up the NYR cap another notch and make way for the Lundy offer sheet :D

Oh, I see. He cannot flee from impending doom, because he’s a part of the impending doom. Stay where you are, Shanny!

What’s the deal with Souray? I thought he would have been snatched up long before this.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:43 pm Sherry

What’s the deal with Souray? I thought he would have been snatched up long before this.

He strikes me as the type of guy who would think long and hard, make pros and cons lists and do extensive research about which city had the hottest women before he committed to a place.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:46 pm Patty

If Dallas is about to sign him, I guess it’s okay. I trust my fellow IPBers.

Modano’s a pretty good center. And I like Ribeiro, but I’ve only seen him for one season. I understand he was not liked in Montreal. But those two need somebody that can finish. They dipsy-doodle all over the ice and make fantastic plays and deke guys to the ground, and then they pass it to their winger and he’s over there picking his seat and not paying attention. :D

So we need a finisher for Modano.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:46 pm Mags

Souray’s +/- is freaking people out. I know it freaks me out.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:47 pm Mags

Also, as Vinny rather cleverly remarked on IM, Souray really wants to go to NYC, so that Mrs Souray can act on Broaday.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:50 pm Patty

Souray really wants to go to NYC, so that Mrs Souray can act on Broaday.

Oh, man. That doesn’t sound very promising.
Although… another overpriced FA signing with the Rangers? Good comedy.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:52 pm american oil

Why I do I feel there is going to be WAY TOO many cooks (as in COOKS not “cook”) in the kitchen in NY’s dressing room?
on July 3, 2007 at 9:54 pm Mags

Because it’s true. And I like it that way.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:55 pm Sherry

Why I do I feel there is going to be WAY TOO many cooks (as in COOKS not “cook”) in the kitchen in NY’s dressing room?

Because Jagr likes his chicken cooked a certain way and he’ll be damned if Gomez doesn’t learn how to season it like Nylander did.
on July 3, 2007 at 9:58 pm Earl Sleek

Seriously, why all the negativity from the media? So one lousy free agent gets signed by two teams, and that becomes a big deal.

C’mon, there’s hundreds of players who get signed by exactly one NHL team at a time, but does the media report about that? Noooo. I guess that doesn’t sell enough papers. “Player XXX still with only one team” isn’t good enough for the front page?! Bah!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:01 pm Vinny

:^::::::::::

But those two need somebody that can finish.

Keep waiting Patty. It’s painful. Watching Sundin try to do everything on his own with mediocre dorks on his line … EEE THANK YOU JASON BLAKE.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:05 pm Mags

Way to put it in perspective Earl.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:05 pm Gambler

Although… another overpriced FA signing with the Rangers? Good comedy.

Of course Souray will end up in NYC. Sather wants the be the Pokémaster of 2007 UFAs. Gotta catch ‘em all, Glen!
on July 3, 2007 at 10:26 pm Gambler

Pokémon killed the thread.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:27 pm Mags

I had a pokemans joke, but it’s WAY obscure for those who don’t spend way too much time on icanhascheezburger…
on July 3, 2007 at 10:27 pm american oil

Exhaustion killed the thread Gambler, I though Pokemaster was brilliant.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:27 pm american oil

thought*
on July 3, 2007 at 10:34 pm Vinny

me too Gambler :D I was just trying to fix my computer :D
on July 3, 2007 at 10:45 pm Pookie

Gambler, that’s awesome that you’re a theater person, too! (Well, not that I can really call myself that anymore; I haven’t been remotely theater-y in 7 years.) Theater folks are definitely a cook lot. I was training to be the best professional stage manager I could be until I hit 2 directors in a row who had me in a perpetual state of hysterical crying. So, be kind to your SMs! They mean seem like stick in the mud jerks, but listen to them! They know best. (I also realized about 2 1/2 years into the 4 year BFA program “heeeey, if I go into theater for a living, I’ll never see a hockey game in real time again!” So I quit. True story. [OK, there were other factors as well, but the time I got someone to cover an important rehearsal for me so I could watch opening day of the NFL at a sports bar I decided it might be time to consider where my priorities lay.]).
on July 3, 2007 at 10:52 pm Sherry

Sorry, I was a little pre-occupied being a guitar hero.
on July 3, 2007 at 10:59 pm Vinny

Sherry have I asked you what platform you play with? :X I’m still undecided (although at this point i’m pretty sure I’m going with the Wii)

:D

btw Luongo has a new backup (that doesn’t have to play) in Sanford, at 600K per.

and the Wild resigned Walz.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:01 pm Gambler

Pookie, even though some of them go on serious unwarranted power-trips, SMs always have my deepest respect. I could never do what they do.

“heeeey, if I go into theater for a living, I’ll never see a hockey game in real time again!”

My high school theater teacher was in a play here in Buffalo back when the Sabres were in the playoffs, and she told me that the cast had sort of a system worked out so they could find out the outcomes of the games while they were still on stage. There was one girl who didn’t have to be on stage most of the time, but she had an entrance near the end of the play. So she would spend all her time backstage refreshing the internet on her cell phone to get the score, and then when she went on she would send the rest of the cast a message through the ribbon in her hair. If it was tied neatly in a bow, they won. If it was just sort of in a knot and not pretty, they lost. If it went into overtime, she took the ribbon out. I’m really interested to know how this affected the last ten minutes of the performance.

Also, when I went to see this play it was in the midst of the shit-show that was the ECF (though not on a game night, I’m not dumb). The play was about a psychic who brings spirits back from the dead and at one point someone says “At this rate, she’ll materialize a hockey team!” The laughter after that line was a brilliant mixture of “I can’t believe she just said that,” and “Please, dear Lord, bring our hockey team back from the dead!”
on July 3, 2007 at 11:03 pm Katebits

Nylander needs to fire his agent and get a turtle-of-affairs.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:07 pm Sherry

Sherry have I asked you what platform you play with?

PS2! I’m loyal to the Playstation although I admit the Xbox 360 version of GH2 has better songs on it..

Also, my friend’s a stage manager haha. You should hear the things she rants about…mostly about the actors. But then again, she’s not easy to tick off. Nice girl though!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:07 pm Pookie

Katebits, that is true of so many players. Although Zach probably blamed Boxworthy for the way his stock plummeted on his draft day… “I say, man, did you remember to show up at all the team interviews with my stats?” Boxworthy’s thinking, “I say, sir, I believe you were the one who was supposed to do that.”
on July 3, 2007 at 11:07 pm Sherry

Err…I meant not HARD to tick off. That makes more sense.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:08 pm Schnookie

You should hear the things she rants about…mostly about the actors.

Pookie still rants about actors and it’s been 8 years since she last stage managed a show.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:11 pm Katebits

Although Zach probably blamed Boxworthy for the way his stock plummeted on his draft day…

It’s not Boxworthy’s fault Lou told everyone Zach was transgendered. Geez.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:25 pm Pookie

Pookie still rants about actors and it’s been 8 years since she last stage managed a show.

I still have steam coming out of my ears from an incident in 1998 when an ass-stupid actor called me out of the entire cast, the director, and the entire production crew from making one honest mistake during a rehearsal. Since my goal was to be the best professional stage manager I could be so I didn’t snap back, “Hey, fuckwad, when you can get through a whole rehearsal without forgetting your fucking lines, then you can try to humiliate me in front of everyone!” Now that I now I’m not going to be any kind of SM, professional or no, I wish I could go back in time to say that.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:30 pm Patty

Now that I now I’m not going to be any kind of SM, professional or no, I wish I could go back in time to say that.

Oh, Pookie, I know what you mean!

There have been many times when I would have told my manager to bite me, had I known what fresh hell the next promotion would bring me.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:39 pm Vinny

:X Sherry – who are Matt Carkner and Danny Bois?

eep. Pookie I’m glad you’re not going to… that career path doesn’t seem very fulfilling.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:42 pm Schnookie

It’s not Boxworthy’s fault Lou told everyone Zach was transgendered. Geez.

Well, Boxworthy never publicly refuted it either. It’s not his job to look inside Zach’s shell, you know!
on July 3, 2007 at 11:42 pm Sherry

who are Matt Carkner and Danny Bois?

Prospects, mailny, haha. Carkner used to be with the Penguins I think and Danny Bois has been playing in Binghamton.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:47 pm Sherry

^mainly…sigh

I think it’s bed time. I’ll see you lot tomorrow :P
on July 3, 2007 at 11:47 pm Vinny

oh okay :D You think one of them will replace Preissing?

Poor Boxworthy. His job entails so many extra duties :X or such implications of extra duties.
on July 3, 2007 at 11:54 pm Schnookie

Night, Sherry!