7:04 PM You know what we don’t care about? This might surprise you, Gentle Reader, but what we don’t care about is “Brendan Shanahan facing off against his former team”. (Wait, we’re playing the Blues tonight? The Whalers? The Wings? Oh, right. The Rangers. He played with them, too, didn’t he?) Now, we don’t fancy ourselves anything more than just fans (which is why we have no interest in ever being credentialed), so we don’t feel at all idiotic when we say we’ve finally figured out why Shanny’s presence on the Devils roster is pissing us off so much: we feel like the Devils are to Shanny as community college is to an unmotivated-but-bright high school graduate. That high school graduate doesn’t have a lot of appealing options right off the bat, so he unhappily drags himself to community college classes until his emotional and social maturity catch up with his intelligence, at which point he transfers to a much better four-year program, then gets a graduate degree from an Ivy. Later in life, looking back at his accomplishments, that student will never talk up his community college years, but they were necessary at the time because he had no other choice. Likewise, when the book is finally shut on Shanahan’s career, his late-in-life return to New Jersey will just be a spot where he was able to keep afloat as a professional hockey player. Sure, that might not actually be the case, but that’s how we feel about it, and nothing he says or does will change it. We feel used and unloved, and Pando never acted like that. So there. Hmph.
FIRST PERIOD
7:11 PM Clemmer goes to handle the puck behind the net with the Devils on the PK and nothing bad happens. That doesn’t stop us from screaming, “GOD! Marty can’t come back soon enough!” Just as the negativity is about to completely overwhelm all of stately IPB Manor, Paulie draws a hooking penalty while killing time drifting into the Rangers zone. Thanks, Paulie. That feels better.
7:13 PM If Doc is required by Versus and NBC to call the trap “a 1-2-2 defensive scheme” one more time about “sexy” teams that don’t play sexily anymore (see: Penguins, Rangers, anyone whose name doesn’t rhyme with “Blevils”), we’re going to scream. We’ve been seeing a lot of commercials for Invent Help, and Pookie wants to invent a device that will make everyone’s televisions say loudly over “1-2-2 defensive scheme” “TRAP!”
7:15 PM Pookie: “I suspect Shanahan’s entire motivation in this game is to impress the Rangers so they’ll sign him again. He’s like, ‘Oh my god! There are Rangers scouts in the building! I better play well!’”
7:20 PM Versus finally gives us a replay of a penalty to show us Zach running over The Prawn, and we are saving that highlight for the next time Rangers fans accuse Marty of being a flopper.
7:23 PM Doc is talking up Shanahan’s proclivity for leaving his feet to block shots. He clearly doesn’t read IPB, or, if he does, isn’t trying very hard to sell us on Shanny. Honestly, we get Pando taken out of the lineup for a penalty killer who eagerly topples over at every opportunity in our single least favorite play in hockey? Fan-fucking-tastic.
7:28 PM Schnookie declares her concern for the outcome of this game, as the Rangers are getting the better of play in what is traditionally the Devils’ best period. “If we’re getting outplayed in the first, this isn’t going to go well.” Just then, the Devils put on a great bit of pressure during which Madden gets fired for not being able to put the puck into an open net. Because the Devils are nothing if not contrary.
7:35 PM Eddie floats the notion that when Marty comes back, he’s going to have to sit periodically to keep Clemmer in the lineup, especially if his first game back is the start of a back-to-back situation. Boomer cracks up. “Eddie,” she cackles, “When was the last time you coached Marty Brodeur and told him to take a seat?”
7:38 PM We get a teaser for the intermission show, and the studio host guy tells us we are not going to want to miss Paul Kelly talking about the role of fighting in the game. Pookie: “I’d rather hear Paul Kelly talk about the Lindros firing.” Schnookie, miming holding a clipboard and pen: “Before we get to your salary review, NHLPA employee, one question – Paul Kelly. Great NHLPA head or greatest NHLPA head?”
7:40 PM Clarkson and Reitz (really? There’s a Ranger named Reitz? And he’s serving as Mara’s bodyguard?) fight. Yawn.
When it ends, Pookie says, “Well, I’ll give Clarkson this – he has a good sense of balance.” (Doc points out ominously several times over the course of the fight and afterwards, that both guys took off their helmets, and Eddie goes on a rant about how fighters should leave their helmets on, but “if you play that role [of fighter], you shouldn’t be allowed to wear a visor.” Schnookie: “Eddie, that is asinine.”)
7:45 PM The big, slow, dumb fourth line gets a shift, and big, slow, dumb Rupper takes an interference penalty, which is something like the 700th penalty by the Devils this period. It might be time for Sutter to take a page out of the Larry handbook and throw a garbage can at the head of the next guy to take a penalty, then staple his sorry ass permanently to the bench for the rest of the night.
SECOND PERIOD
8:07 PM The period starts the way all second periods in Newark do – with missed chances by the Devils, and glorious opportunities for the opposition. After Zherdev rings a shot loudly off the goalpost, Schnookie crankily says, “I’m calling this period ends with the Rangers up at least 3-0.”
8:10 PM Rupp and Orr fight.
After the Clarkson/Reitz fight in the first, Eddie gave the old “all the fans are on their feet, so it must have been entertaining” line that drives us so batty when it’s used to justify the shootout. As we watch the current combatants go to the box, Pookie speaks for all of us when she says, “I don’t think I’ve ever stood for a fight.”
8:12 PM Look, the Devils’ inability to get penalties called on the opposition is starting to drive us completely bonkers. Gomez infracts badly enough in the Rangers zone that Eddie starts shouting about how he’s gotten away with a couple of hooks, and then at the other end of the ice, Zubrus gets called for boarding. Sigh. Gomez does go after Zubrus to take a retaliation penalty, though. So it all evens out in the end?
8:15 PM We sit in stunned silence as Clemmer gloves a high shot with a box of Devils standing all around him, then, when it seems he is going to hold on for a whistle, he instead drops the puck into his unaware d-man’s feet to turn a nothing play into a turnover deep in the Devils zone. The seethe-o-meter in our living room is rocketing off the charts.
8:17 PM WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! Patty gets an assist! Yeah, Holik gets a goal and Shanny gets the other assist, so we have to cling to what we can here. Keep our eyes on the prize: it’s 1-0 Devils (that’s AWESOME!), there was some laughably awful defense by the Blueshirts on that play (that’s DELICIOUS!), and we only hate two of the guys involved in the scoring (that’s MAKING OUR LIVES DIFFICULT!). (Are we cutting off our noses to spite our faces here? Probably, but go back to the opening thought of this post – we don’t claim to be rational. We’re fans. We follow our hearts. Heh.)
8:22 PM WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!! There’s one we can really cheer for! Travis and Zach team up for some great work in front on the PP, and Zach is able to punch the puck into the net, and it’s 2-0 Devils. Renney tries to pull a Mt. St. Sutter slow-burn eruption on the Rangers bench, but he just doesn’t have quite as lethal a glower.
8:29 PM Versus informs us the shootout is the brainchild of the famous Shanahan Coffee Klatch That Saved Hockey. Why don’t you just kick our dog while you’re here, Shanny?
8:31 PM Zach falls over when Gomez skates near him, and the officials, taking mercy on us, call it tripping. On Gomez. We’ll stop complaining now about the penalties.
8:37 PM Versus is trying to horn its way into PaulieMartinNation, as the entire broadcast grinds to a halt so we can all revel in the mad b-ball skillz that allowed Paulie to keep the puck on the PP that led to Zach’s goal. We’re not complaining about that, either, but we’re not granting Versus citizenship. Maybe, like, a 12-month visa, and we can see how things go.
7:41 PM The lights go half out at The Rawk, but for some reason the officials are not willing to take Zach up on his offer of lighting up the arena just with his smile for the remaining two minutes of the period. DING!
THIRD PERIOD
9:05 PM Rupp gets a mini-break. He doesn’t score. We’re stunned. (Actually, he surprises us a little by beating The Prawn, but he rings the shot off the crossbar.)
9:10 PM We feel a glimmer of sympathy for Rangers fans as Doc and Eddie are spending the better part of this period so far trying to figure out why Renney isn’t sticking with the line shake-ups he tried earlier in the game. We’ve been there. It’s not fun. Of course, it is the Rangers, and this means Rangers fans are miserable, so we’re not, like, sorry for them. Just sympathetic. While also laughing with maniacal glee.
9:16 PM Ah, so the Devils are going to take the second part last tonight. If they are counting on Clemmer holding the fort in the final frame here, they should take a long, hard look at how well he’s held shutouts in third periods so far this season.
9:20 PM The Devils are on the PK, and while watching the play unfold, Schnookie calls it: “Zach and Redden in a race down the length of the rink for a loose puck, Zach shorthanded and Redden with the angle. Advantage? Zach.” On the next sequence, Redden takes a hooking penalty against Shanahan. Sweet.
9:21 PM Sjostrom hits Madden from behind with the puck nowhere nearby, and the Devils go up two men.
9:23 PM The 5-on-3 is not as impressive as the Devils PK that preceded it.
9:27 PM The Devils draw a well-earned roar of approval from the surprisingly Devils-fan-heavy crowd for a series of shifts that involve Zach besting three Rangers with typical dogged play behind The Prawn’s net, and then a whole lot of standing fast by the rest of the guys in the defensive zone at the other end. It almost looks like the Devils are trying to issue a statement here.
9:35 PM WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Holy shit! Renney finally quiets Eddie by pulling Prawn with two minutes remaining, and just as we start to think, “Aw fuck, the Devils suck when facing an extra attacker,” the Devils retrieve the puck on a defensive zone draw won by Gomez, Zach skates it up the far wing, and then makes no mistake in putting it into the empty net. 3-0 Devils!
9:37 PM Look at us! We’re happy! For a Clemmensen shutout with a Holik gamewinner! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I just got back from the future and have the following report: Clemmensen gives up 5 goals in a 5-4 Devils OT loss. 3 of the Rangers goals will be very poor, including 2 by Gomez. Elias will club Clemmensen over the head for his poor performance but Clemmensen will still start the next game, with Sutter insisting Weekes may get to start the next game but Weekes doesn’t start before Brodeur’s return. Also, Holik took a stupid penalty in tonight’s game.
Mike, I’d laugh, but… that sounds entirely too credible! Especially the Holik part. :P
Mike, I’m so glad I don’t have to pay attention any more! I mean, there is no other way this game could play out! :D
Awe little Zachy looks astounded for his penalty.
This should have been two-and-two!
Is it just me or does Zach look awfully slow tonight? Compared to his normal speed anyway.
I always go through an “I hate hockey” phase in February. I don’t think a Rangers game on Versus is the cure.
No, mcguffers, probably not.
KG, Zach’s saving up his blazing speed for the 3rd period. Or, um, something.
I always go through an “I hate hockey” phase in February. I don’t think a Rangers game on Versus is the cure.
Ah yes, the February swoon. This is the time of year when we normally find ourselves desperately casting about for fresh blood, which is why we’ve coined the term “February hottie”. For that player who’s not ACTUALLY hott, but who is hott enough to distract us during these dog days. That said, I can’t really recommend Devils/Rangers on Versus as your cure, either. Most of the Devils are too hott to be FebHos, and the Rangers are just vile. :P
Come on, Devils. Do the Sabres a solid and beat the Rangers. You can do it!
If this continues, I’m going to throw a bench on the ice.
Look, why is that not a hook on the Ranger on the sequence right before the hold gets called on Zubrus? WHY????
Oooh Pookie throw the bench at Clemmer.
Pookie, please throw the bench at Shanahan. Just for closure with Pando, you know?
Sure thing, Schnookie! Then I’ll send Holik out to pick it up. Maybe he’d then sign with Detroit this summer.
KG, :^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: I love that we are both quick with people for Pookie to be throwing the bench at! Gotta love this team this year, right? :P
Is Pando still benched?
I can throw a couple benches, that’s no problem!
Amy, yes, Pando is still a healthy scratch in favor of Brendan “Stupid Penalty” Shanahan. Schnookie’s handling it very admirably.
Actually, I was thinking about focusing all my negative energy in rooting for one team to suck REALLY hard. That way, I can say, “Well, all the Sabres might be injured, and I might need a new roster check every time I watch a game, but hey, we’re not the Penguins. They Reallly blow!!” Or, “Well, the Habs may have disintegrated with my new fandom, but at least they’re not the Senators! They really suck!!”
I think channeling your negative energy to the Penguins is a fantastic idea!
Then I’ll send Holik out to pick it up. Maybe he’d then sign with Detroit this summer.
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Here’s hoping!
mcguffers, I think that’s a FANTASTIC approach! (I tried it last year. With the Caps. It… um… didn’t work.)
Is Pando still benched?
*Long, awkward silence* Is it obvious that I’m fighting back tears?
Is Pando still benched?
Hopefully he’s not sitting on one of the benches getting chucked onto the ice.
The benching of Pando has been so abrupt and wrong! You’ve been heroically stoic in the face of this outrage, Schnookie.
Thanks, Katebits. I appreciate hearing it. Every now and again I wonder what I’m gaining by not still railing at the storm, because, well, letting it go hasn’t made me feel any better either. I mean, it’s not like the Devils have sent me a fruit basket or anything for being a good soldier. I guess they don’t like that I’m still snarking at Shanahan anyway. :P
Hopefully he’s not sitting on one of the benches getting chucked onto the ice.
:^::::::::::::::::::::::: But that would be so poetic considering the original bench-throwing incident!
There goes another bench!
Schnookie, maybe after this game, Shanny will get confused and leave with the Rangers.
Of course that plan would work better if NJ and NY weren’t 35 seconds away from each other and Shanny could be easily returned.
Well, maybe you should let it rip, Schnookie! Really freak out for a few days. Did you ever really let yourself go? Was there a freak out behind the scenes at IPB Manor?
Shanny could be easily returned.
Just pin a note to his sweater saying free to a good home. No one ever turns down free stuff.
But that would be so poetic considering the original bench-throwing incident!
:^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: I totally forgot about Pando’s “involvement”
Of course that plan would work better if NJ and NY weren’t 35 seconds away from each other and Shanny could be easily returned.
I KNOW! There was some snotty, stupid-assed comment in one of the papers recently about how it was tricky for Shanahan to figure out his reverse Manhattan-to-Newark commuting schedule at first. To which I’m like, “Well fine! Take your snobby ‘I’m too good to work somewhere other than New York City’ attitude and go crawling back to Sather if you hate it so much!’” I might be reading too much into it, though. :P
Did you ever really let yourself go? Was there a freak out behind the scenes at IPB Manor?
I’m not going to say I didn’t cry about it. More than once. At work.
Aw, poor Schnookie! We should have sent you flowers! I admit, I didn’t think it was that serious when he first got benched. I just can’t believe that one day he was benched for the first time in his career and that he hasn’t been back since. That’s SO LAME. Brendan Shanahan is NOT a Devil, he’s Lucifer. (Isn’t that kind of deep. :P)
Brendan Shanahan is NOT a Devil, he’s Lucifer. (Isn’t that kind of deep. :P)
Oooh, that’s REALLY deep! :P (I knew as soon as we signed Shanahan that Pando would be the odd-man-out. Everyone was saying Rupp, but Rupp was playing well and contributing, while Pando wasn’t. Sutter’s never liked Pando, either. So it was a double-whammy for the soon-to-be TravisNation. Sigh. It’s not been a season of joyful Devils fandom for me, that’s for sure.)
Brendan Shanahan is NOT a Devil, he’s Lucifer.
If anyone out there even thinks of making a Miro Satan joke — yup, that’s another bench! :P
Pookie, :^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: What? Have you heard my super awesome Devils/Lucifer joke before?! I’m stunned, frankly. :P
Katebits, :^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Nope, never heard it before! It’s toooootally new to me! It came so out of the blue, it cold-cocked me.
Perhaps you’ve been previously cock blocked from that joke. Or something.
Hm. Could be. Or something. If only I could call a locksmith to unlock that joke for me.
BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!
The game, not the comments. BTW- worst fight ever.
All this talk of cocks! Please! We don’t want to further offend the delicate sensibilities of the Saskatoon Airport’s wi-fi!
Rupp should be benched for the absolute lameness of that fight.
That was supposed to say boring, but it got all eaten up.
This game is cranky.
Paulie was pretty foxy right there.
Cock cock cock.
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
Finally!
I don’t have “woooo”s in me for Holik. So I’m saying WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!! for Patty’s assist. :D
Erin, I figured it was a never-ending “Booooo!” which is also appropriate.
Kate, Pauile’s been super foxy tonight. It’s the only thing that’s kept me from soldering my brain stem.
Also, WOOOOOOOO!!! (For Patty’s assist. Heh.)
Holik scoring is kind of funny. Even funnier is a close up of Shanny and Holik on the bench together. That should be blown up and framed at IPB Manor
By the way, I meant a picture of Holik and Shanny should be blown up, not the bench should be blown up. I know how Devils/Devils fans are slightly abusive to benches.
Yay!!! I’m cheering for the standings, and the Sabres possibly moving up. Is that okay?
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! I loved EVERYTHING about that goal!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! Zach looks a little ramped up, no?
Hey, Erin, I’m sorry I haven’t mailed your DVD yet! I’ll get around to it this week, I SWEAR!
By the way, I meant a picture of Holik and Shanny should be blown up, not the bench should be blown up. I know how Devils/Devils fans are slightly abusive to benches.
:^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Blowing up benches is a pretty good thought, too. If I could go back in time, I’d have Ftorek blow up a bench, and then make Rafalski pick up all the little shrapnel pieces.
Zach looked incredibly ramped up. Like, he was about to bite the head off a turtle. Boxworthy should look out.
Awww! Zach scoring is much prettier and more satisfying.
Katebits,
No sweat. Actually I forgot all about it. Will you be at the game on Wednesday? Maybe we could just meet up and save you the postage.
I am going on Wednesday, actually! That would be great!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yay! Zach!!!
We’ve been half watching while making/eating dinner. I just checked the box score. Enough penalties?
Zach looked incredibly ramped up. Like, he was about to bite the head off a turtle. Boxworthy should look out.
Zach is very good about never biting the head off anything wearing a butler’s outfit.
FUCK ME! DID VERSUS JUST SAY THAT SHANNY FUCKING INVENTED THE FUCKING SHOOTOUT?????????? Oh, it is ON.
Kate,
That’s rad. Let’s meet up! I’ll email you later.
God I hate the Rangers.
The Kid is watching the Dog Show. They just had an Otter hound. And his hair was the same color as our Otter. Just needed to share that.
If I could go back in time, I’d have Ftorek blow up a bench, and then make Rafalski pick up all the little shrapnel pieces.
:^::::::::::::::
I’m sorry, I know it was probably said about 10000 times, but I loved the joke about how the Devils legitimately got a “bench minor” and how it was a very apropos penalty
I saw that Zach had scored his 31st and I was like “Oh no he’s only one behind Van- WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!”
Vanek will remain stagnant at 32 goals and it shall kill me to watch. Can the rest of the Devils and Flyers just start scoring and keep Zach and Jeff Carter out of this? I’m not saying I don’t want the Devils to win, I just don’t want Zach to score for the next 9-12 games… please?
I have this great mental image of a ramped-up Zach trying to bite the head of Boxworthy, who just keeps pulling his head into his shell. Poor Zach would be so confused.
I loved the joke about how the Devils legitimately got a “bench minor” and how it was a very apropos penalty
If ever there was a bench minor, that was it. :D (And don’t ever apologize for repeating something that’s been said 10000 times about that incident. It’s only the most hilarious, perfect, legendary moment from the entirety of my Devils fandom. It can’t be rehashed often enough.)
I have this great mental image of a ramped-up Zach trying to bite the head of Boxworthy, who just keeps pulling his head into his shell. Poor Zach would be so confused.
:^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
I wonder how long Zach could stay ramped up enough to keep trying to bite off Boxworthy’s head?
I loved the joke about how the Devils legitimately got a “bench minor”
:^:::::::::::::::::::::: (I hadn’t actually heard that one before.)
Myra, we TiVo’ed the dog show to watch after this, so I’ll keep my eyes peeled for the otter hound!
Yeah, shoot me an email tomorrow, Erin!
I have this great mental image of a ramped-up Zach trying to bite the head of Boxworthy, who just keeps pulling his head into his shell.
Poor Zach! He’d immediately be like, “Oh my god. I did it. I bit off a turtle’s head. Oh shit! It was Boxworthy! NOOOOOOO!!!! I’ll never forgive myself!” And as he goes on and on, Boxworthy wonders if he should poke his head back out to give Zach a measure of relief, or wait and see if his lamentations will include vowing that, if only he could have his trusted turtle-of-affairs back, he’d be sure to give him full benefits and at least one week of paid vacation.
Myra, I’m totally guessing the Otter hound was by far the coolest dog there. Much cooler than, say, a COCKer spaniel. (Sorry, Schnookie, couldn’t resist :P)
But then when Boxworthy does poke his head back out, Zach would go, “ARRRRRRGHHH!” and try to bite it off again.
Schnookie, :^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Maybe Zach would think forevermore that Boxworthy was a ghost- a ghost haunting him, and that only Zach can see.
COCKer spaniel
Heh, nice one!
COCKer spaniel.
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: I’ve never been so disgusted in my life.
Maybe Zach would think forevermore that Boxworthy was a ghost- a ghost haunting him, and that only Zach can see.
Yup! He’d hear that damn turtle’s beating heart following him around everywhere.
COCKer spaniel.
Heh. Was he cockeyed?
Zach would have nightmares about being chased across a covered bridge by a headless turtle throwing flaming mini-pumpkins.
mcguffers, me thinks that one was a little too easy. Ha!
Poor confused Zach.
I predict that there will be a bench clearing brawl before this one is over with.
Pookie, :^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pookie, :^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
This is exactly the advantage over Zach that Boxworthy needs!
Was he cockeyed?
Yes, but he was adorable when he cocked his head to the side
Myra, I know, I’m disgusted with myself :)
Was he cockeyed?
Yes, but he was adorable when he cocked his head to the side
*Clutches pearls* This is all cockamamie!
Much cooler than, say, a COCKer spaniel.
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Finally, some of the heat is off me for sullying the comment thread the other day. :P
And :^::::::::::::::::::::::::::: to all the Zach biting off Boxworthy’s head stuff.
Myra, the Otterhound was especially adorable. (I’ve given up on hockey and am watching the dogs. Dogs are stress-free).
At the game the other night, I cracked up Myra when I told her you can always tell which one’s Gomez because he skates with his hands dragging on the ice.
I cracked up Myra when I told her you can always tell which one’s Gomez because he skates with his hands dragging on the ice.
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Of course, that can be said for a lot of Rangers…
Of course, that can be said for a lot of Rangers
And it will only be even more true when/if Avery joins the squad.
Finally, some of the heat is off me for sullying the comment thread the other day. :P
Oh, you’re not getting off that easy for those vacuum shenanigans!
Also, :^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: to the Gomez thing!
Of course, that can be said for a lot of Rangers…
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::
Why are we still talking about the Thornton trade again? I was sure this was the anniversary or something. Sheesh.
Oh, you’re not getting off that easy for those vacuum shenanigans!
At least I didn’t say show me your cock!
Oops. Dammit!
Why are we still talking about the Thornton trade again?
Seriously! It’s not even like Thornton hasn’t been back to Boston since then, either! (Although I think it’s interesting that the line’s been, for the last two years, “What a terrible deal! San Jose got Thornton and the Bruins got MARCO STURM.” And now that Boston’s good, we’re examining what they got when they traded the other pieces from that deal, and then what they spent their cap money on, and blah blah blah. Whatever, Versus. :P)
I cracked up Myra when I told her you can always tell which one’s Gomez because he skates with his hands dragging on the ice.
I think I went into full snort-laughing on that one, as I recall.
At least I didn’t say show me your cock!
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
And I’m pretty sure those same people were expecting Thornton to have brought the Cup to San Jose by now. But they seem to have forgotten that part. They act like it was at the last trade deadline.
At least I didn’t say show me your cock!
Oops. Dammit!
For Schnookie’s sake, we should really put a cock in it. Ooops! CORK, I meant CORK!!
At least I didn’t say show me your cock!
Oops. Dammit!
For Schnookie’s sake, we should really put a cock in it. Ooops! CORK, I meant CORK!!
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
But they seem to have forgotten that part. They act like it was at the last trade deadline.
Yeah, but they’re in first place in the West right now. That equals a Cup, right? :P
Have I mentioned that the small town in the Vegas commercials is the next little town over from my hometown? Watch those commercials closely and you will see why I don’t still live there. :P
Yeah, but they’re in first place in the West right now. That equals a Cup, right? :P
Not if the Sabres have anything to do with it! *choke choke cough snort* Sorry, I couldn’t do that with any conviction.
There is a 41 point difference in the Northeast.
Hub: Did you see that Rupp almost had a breakaway?
Myra: No, it’s not possible for Rupp to breakaway.
but they’re in first place in the West right now. That equals a Cup, right?
Right. They’re totally the cock of the walk right now.
Watch those commercials closely and you will see why I don’t still live there.
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: That’s priceless!
Myra: No, it’s not possible for Rupp to breakaway.
The Rangers D: “No, it’s very possible.” :P
WOW! Ottawa is LAST in the league in goals scored?! What the HELL happened to them? I knew their defense was bad, but I didn’t realize they couldn’t score either.
Have I mentioned that the small town in the Vegas commercials is the next little town over from my hometown?
No way! I didn’t realize it was even in Texas!
The Rangers D: “No, it’s very possible.” :P
Actually, you have a point there.
They have a whole series of videos on the Vegas tourism sight. But I’ve only been able to watch one. Too many flashbacks.
The Rangers D: “No, it’s very possible.” :P
Prawn: “Yup. That’s my defense. Making anything possible. Cocks.”
What the HELL happened to them? I knew their defense was bad, but I didn’t realize they couldn’t score either.
Bryan Murray’s like, “Don’t look at me! It’th Emery’th fault!” And Eugene Melnyk’s like, “Don’t look at me, hockey media and Sens fans! It’s YOUR fault!”
Marty is looking very svelte in that suit.
Awwwww!!! Marty! He’s so dreamy. He looked so, so, so bored!
Prawn: “Yup. That’s my defense. Making anything possible. Cocks.”
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: I can’t believe The Prawn is trying to push us even further up the Saskatoon Airport’s shit list! :P
And Jason Spezza’s like, “Hey, mugwump, quit looking at me. And leave my typewriter alone.”
I feel like Marty’s been wasting away! He’s HALF his playing size!
And Jason Spezza’s like, “Hey, mugwump, quit looking at me. And leave my typewriter alone.”
:^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
I didn’t see him! I was screwing around with my stupid locking-up laptop.
I am so not liking the looks of this period.
I made my husband rewind the game so I could look at Marty again. Why do I have it so bad for goaltenders?!?
I feel like Marty’s been wasting away! He’s HALF his playing size!
I’m afraid for Vanek. In a month he’s gonna be calling Crunchy a fatass.
I feel like Vanek could stand to lose a few pounds. Eating though a straw might be good for him. :P
mcguffers,
That’s a good point! And then Crunchy is going to start purging and pinching flesh in front of the mirror.
And Jason Spezza’s like, “Hey, mugwump, quit looking at me. And leave my typewriter alone.”
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Schnookie, the Saskatoon Airport is getting rid of WiFi just because of this ridiculous poppycock.
Poor Vanek. I can’t imagine having my jaw wired shut. Hub on the other hand, probably dreams of the day. :)
Woohoo! Yeah Habs! Now at least when you lose this one, it won’t be a shutout!! (I’m working on my positivity)
POPPYCOCK! Good one, mcguffers! I’m totally not keeping up with this cock game. You guys are way better at it than me. At this point I’m like, “Um….cock. Just cock.” That’s all I’ve got.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Poppycock! Man, I am so impressed. I’m with Katebits, in that I’m just like, “Cock cock cock cock cock.”
Katebits and Schnookie, :^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
My goal is to have this blog be the number one google search result for “(insert name of Devil)’s cock”
Yeah, I shot my wad (heh) on TWC when this all started. All I’ve got left is cock-a-doodle-doo.
My goal is to have this blog be the number one google search result for “(insert name of Devil)’s cock”
It would be a real improvement over our recent most-popular search term: “Meatiest pussy of all time”. No joke. I haven’t bothered googling it to see why it finds us.
Yeah, I blew my wad (heh) on TWC when this all started. All I’ve got left is cock-a-doodle-doo.
:^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: You’ve been rendered impotent.
You guys are way better at it than me.
Oh, please! What a cock-and-bull story!
Yeah, I blew my wad (heh) on TWC when this all started. All I’ve got left is cock-a-doodle-doo.
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hey Habs, it’s okay! You were able to keep that one goal lead for almost, like 4 whole minutes! Nice job!
You’ve been rendered impotent.
Oh, please! What a cock-and-bull story!
AAAAAAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
Zach has common sense? Since when?
It would be a real improvement over our recent most-popular search term: “Meatiest pussy of all time”. No joke. I haven’t bothered googling it to see why it finds us.
Holik’s mom forgot his email address again apparently
Holik’s mom forgot his email address again apparently
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::*gasp*::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Wooooooo!!! Zach the Paddler!
It would be a real improvement over our recent most-popular search term: “Meatiest pussy of all time”. No joke. I haven’t bothered googling it to see why it finds us.
Holik’s mom forgot his email address again apparently
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Also, WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
32 goals!! WOOO ZACH!
Holik’s mom forgot his email address again apparently
I don’t have enough time to add enough :^: for that! Genius.
Also? WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!
mcguffers, you’re a genius!
Wow. I can’t believe the Rangers followed up the 10-2 loss by getting shutout. They SUCK SO HARD! WOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
HOLY SHIT! I was NOT expecting that! WOOOOOO!!!
That should have been Weekes’ shutout.
Now I’m embarrassed! The Stars let them score two goals!
That was AWESOME! I am SO impressed! I don’t even mind that Clemmer got a shutout!
DAY-UM! LISTEN to Jonesy here! That was DELIGHTFUL!
mcguffers, you’re a genius!
Agreed!
And Congratulations Devils!!!
WOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!
“Rangers appear like a team that is in trouble.”
Uh. Ya think?
mcguffers, you’re a genius!
I don’t want to get too cocky, but yes, yes I am. (see what I did there?)
Congrats Devils fans! Zach almost got a hat trick! And don’t feel bad, Patty! Not every team has Clemmer to get them a shut out! heh.
And you KNOW I had to check: Meatiest is from “IPB’s Meatiest Post Ever”. Pussy is from “I’d even call him a fat pussy toad.” and Of all time is “Andy Roddick is one of the goofiest looking ‘hot’ athletes of all time”
Interestingly enough, you guys don’t come up on the first page with “fat pussy toad” search.
I don’t want to get too cocky, but yes, yes I am.
Stop it! My sides hurt!
Thanks for looking that up, mcguffers; I figured it had to be the Sid’s balls post. Heh.
OK, Zach had two goals and Clemmer had a shutout — why are they talking to Brankahan? At the end of this game, the story isn’t him facing off against one of his many old teams. They owe me a Zach interview!
Hey, did y’all notice that the “Matchup” stats on Yahoo Fantasy are immediate? I don’t know if it’s live, but you don’t have to wait until tomorrow.
OK,
:^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: *GASP*:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
to this whole fucking thread! It’s a cockamany!
And yes, the Saskatoon airport is collectively clutching their pearls.
Second chance schmecond chance.
Interestingly enough, you guys don’t come up on the first page with “fat pussy toad” search.
Well, we’re not a Yankees blog, so I’m not surprised. :D
And yeah! Versus TOTALLY owes me a Zach interview!
Cocksucking motherfucker! I forgot to play Zachie poo tonight.
Patty, I did notice that about the Matchup stats in Yahoo! It had me very excited.
Look at us! We’re happy! For a Clemmensen shutout with a Holik gamewinner! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
Damn right! I was really hoping that Weekes got a shutout first, but fuck it, if Clemmer was going to get it first, at least he got it against the Rangers! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
I was really hoping that Weekes got a shutout first, but fuck it, if Clemmer was going to get it first, at least he got it against the Rangers!
Yeah, I’m not going to spite my face that much — this was DELICIOUS tonight! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! I love that this was the Rangers’ response to losing 10-2. LOVE IT!
That Zednik goal is pretty amazing, but the little poke past the defender he made to get into the zone for it was pretty underrated.
And you KNOW I had to check: Meatiest is from “IPB’s Meatiest Post Ever”. Pussy is from “I’d even call him a fat pussy toad.” and Of all time is “Andy Roddick is one of the goofiest looking ‘hot’ athletes of all time”
That makes so much sense.
My top search right now is “Alex Burrows male escort” and “Carey Price alcohol”
Well…yes Burr is pretty enough to be a male escort, but I think he’s doing just fine with his hockey pay cheque even if it is league minimum. And yes I would like to pour alcohol all over Carey Price and lick it off. Thank you.
alix, you’re not helping us with the Saskatoon Airport at all.
Well, we’re not a Yankees blog, so I’m not surprised. :D
Hahahahahaha, it’s funny cause it’s true! They are fat pussy toads! Especially if fat pussy toads have ever taken performance enhancing drugs that they don’t know the name of and have ended their marriage for Madonna. Stupid fat pussy toads!
I love that this was the Rangers’ response to losing 10-2. LOVE IT!
I know!!! Oh, and are you basking in the glory that is disgruntled Rangers fans bemoaning the fact they are stuck with Gomez and his “untradeable contract”?
Sorry, Schnookie! :P
Hahahahahaha, it’s funny cause it’s true! They are fat pussy toads!
To be fair, we only use the phrase because of Steinbrenner calling Irabu one. But it’s still applicable to many Yankees today. :D
Oh, and are you basking in the glory that is disgruntled Rangers fans bemoaning the fact they are stuck with Gomez and his “untradeable contract”?
AAAAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Yeah, psst, Rangers fans — there’s a reason none of us were upset that he didn’t re-sign with the Devils. We were just upset that he didn’t head West. Now I’m not so sorry about that. :P
Oh, and are you basking in the glory that is disgruntled Rangers fans bemoaning the fact they are stuck with Gomez and his “untradeable contract”?
Even I’m basking in that glory, and I’m unrelated to either team. :D
I just love untradeable contracts that go so predictably bad, so soon.
Oh, and are you basking in the glory that is disgruntled Rangers fans bemoaning the fact they are stuck with Gomez and his “untradeable contract”?
It’s music to my ears. Sweet, sweet music.
My top search right now is “Alex Burrows male escort” and “Carey Price alcohol”
I would love to know what the hell those people were actually looking for
alix, did you happen to see Weekend Update on Saturday Night Live this week?
My top search right now is “Alex Burrows male escort” and “Carey Price alcohol”
I would love to know what the hell those people were actually looking for
alix, did you happen to see Weekend Update on Saturday Night Live this week?
My top search right now is “Alex Burrows male escort” and “Carey Price alcohol”
I would love to know what the hell those people were actually looking for
alix, did you happen to see Weekend Update on Saturday Night Live this week?
mcguffers, we heard you the first time! :P (Just kidding.)
Sorry, I probably shouldn’t have gone there, but after the Ranger trolls hit our blogs last year with the “you can’t beat us, thanks for Gomez” crap, I can’t help but laugh now.
the hell?? My computer got stuck and I honestly thought the Saskatoon Airport was blocking me :D
Frisby, don’t ever apologize for reminding us of how much Rangers fans are hating Gomez right now. NEVER! :D
mcguffers, the Saskatoon Airport isn’t that obvious. It’s much more sneaky, got much more of a long-term plan. No, it’ll get you back when you least expect it.
Schnookie, the Habs announcer was saying “They just can’t get Komisarek off” so I said (aloud to myself) “Oh I could get Komisarek off!” then my computer froze. It just seemed like a comment the Saskatoon Airport would be making me suffer for.
so I said (aloud to myself) “Oh I could get Komisarek off!” then my computer froze.
:^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: I suppose you had it coming, then. :P (That’s what she said.)
I’m glad I’m not the only one that says stuff like that aloud to myself. :D
mcguffers, I missed weekend update. *Tear* I heart it so. Was it good?
Oh that’s what she said. It never gets old.
I suppose you had it coming, then. :P (That’s what she said.)
:^:::::::::::::::::::::
alix, Seth Meyers did his “Really?!?” segment on Michael Phelps and totally used your argument for how dumb it is that Kelloggs is pulling out of their deal with him. My favorite was, “You’ve got Snap, Crackle, and Pop. I know three guys named Snap, Crackle, and Pop. They’re drug dealers.”
Nice job, Habs. You kill off 102 penalties, then allow the Flames to score short handed. Oh, and again. Way to be. Jerks. You’re not even Cocks.
It never gets old.
That’s what she said.
AHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! That’s awesome!
Not so awesome is the FHabs losing to the Flames. Stupid fucking Flames.
This is it:
I don’t think this clip will ever be not funny.
EEEEEE!! Thanks, mcguffers! Going to watch it now!
Ok, :^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: That was SOOOO funny! Oh my god. I totes agree with everything he said.
Okay, we just turned on the Habs game. Ouch.
If I stay awake for this puss eating game, and the Habs continue to allow the Flames to make them their bitch, I am flying to Calgary and kicking every single one of them in the teeth. I may need a chair for Komisarek and O’Byrne, but i’ll fucking do it.
I know, alix! I haven’t been watching SNL the past few seasons, but I HAVE to watch update with Seth. I love the slam to US Swimming too. “Now he won’t be able to compete for you in the ‘Not Olympics races.’”
That was hilarious, mcguffers! I also loved, “Parents if your kid asks why can’t I smoke pot. Michael Phelps does it, just tell them sure they can when they win 12 gold medals!”
I’m so using that if I ever have kids :D
I should watch it one more time before the third period starts. Even a Mike Komisarek interview is not cheering me up.
I’m sorely disappointed in the way this Habs/Flames game is going.
I’m sorely disappointed in the way this Habs season is going.
I’m so sorry, mcguffers. There’s still time!
Good morning.
I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY I HATE HOCKEY.
I can’t believe the way the habs are playing. I’ve never believed in the “100 years should automatically bring an 25th cup” myth, but this season was REALLY promising. It started really well, but now…
What worries me the most is that I begin to seriously feel like I’m a Senators fan in 2007-08. Ugh.
Good morning!
toads have ever taken performance enhancing drugs that they don’t know the name of and have ended their marriage for Madonna.
I do not feel sorry for him in the least. How in sam hill do you become a professional athlete and not know what the heck someone is injecting into your body? Not to mention throwing away a marriage and two adorable children for Madonna of all people. The stupidity is just too rampant here for me to even comprehend.
Aw, Grrrreg, I’m sorry! There’s nothing worse than feeling like a Sens fan! (Sorry, Sherry. :P)
Good morning, everyone! Did you hear? The Devils shut out the Rangers! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
Awww, Grrrreg, I’m really sorry! I don’t even know what to say.
And BWUAHAHAHA, Rangers. That is all.
Awww, Grrrreg, that’s just awful! I’m so sorry! On the bright side, though, you’ve got to know that management will be forced to do something to right the Habs ship, which is more than the Sens tried last year. (Oh, wait, they fired coaches who never should have been hired in the first place…)
And good morning, everyone! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! about the Devils/Rangers game! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! I was saying to Pookie last night that it was a very reassuring win because, while Holik and Clemmer and Shanahan were key cogs, I was still TOTALLY psyched by it, which suggests I might be able to get over those guys after all, should any kind of postseason success come our way. :P
Nice game for the Devs! Way to keep the trade value up Clemmer! A couple of thoughts:
Colin White is more important to our D than anyone cares to admit. His numbers don’t do his presence justice.
If Rupp is just going to get smoked by the other team’s best fighters, we might as well put Pando in for him now. I mean Pando can ring breakaway shots off the crossbar with the best of them.
Morgan, you’re so right about Whitey, and this is the point Pookie’s hanging her hockey genius cred on. Every time I complain about the Devils’ dreadful home record, she points out that seemingly all their home losses have been with Whitey out of the lineup. He’s like our Sean Avery. Without him, we have, like, a .080 winning percentage, and with him, we never lose.
I’d make some crack about Rupp/Pando, but I’m crying too hard right now to think of anything. :P
My time travel mission was successful, originally the Devils were going to lose this game as described in the first post but I slipped some coffee into Clemmensen’s pre-game vodka so he maintained a state of semi-alertness during the game instead of the general panic to which we are all accustomed. Sure, this sounds like a ridiculous story but how else do you explain a Clemmensen shutout?
Mike, :^::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Clearly, we all have to stay diligent around Clemmer, especially here in what we’re all hoping is the final stretch run of his reign of terror. :P (Trade value… still high… must not complain too much…)
Sure, this sounds like a ridiculous story but how else do you explain a Clemmensen shutout?
Even a blind pig finds a nut sometimes.
You know, if you all continue to bash Clemmensen in spite of all the good things he does, I might actually start to like him. Where does this all come from, really? Does he say bad things in his interviews? Did he grew up rooting for the rangers?
Where does this all come from, really?
Is it ok to say I just really, really don’t like him? Him and his zillion $ teeth, and the fact that he wrote a stupid article about how hard it is to back up Marty Brodeur. And his annoying interviews (although admittedly, if it were anyone else saying the things he says in interviews, I wouldn’t really mind. I just want to hate Clemmer). Those are my reasons anyway, don’t know about anyone else.
Did he grew up rooting for the rangers?
:^:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Heh. No, my dislike of him comes from his little essay in The Sporting News at the end of his first go-round with the Devils, where he whined that his life was so difficult because Marty Brodeur was stealing his ice time. He groused that, as an undrafted, little-known nobody, he’d been done a great disservice by the Devils when he wasn’t given a chance to play more. Then he signed with the Leafs and couldn’t win the starting job for the Marlies. And then he comes along this year, snatches the job away from fan-favorite Weekes, and then his success prompts people outside the realm of regular Devils observers to crow that this is proof that Marty’s career success is overrated and all a product of “the system” (despite the fact that the Devils openly abandoned “the system” to modify how they play in front of a non-Marty goalie). GAH! In short, he rubs me the wrong way; hey — I never claim to be rational! :P
Why I hate Clemmensen:
1. I don’t think he is a good goalie. He looks shaky to me on a lot of routine plays and saves, he lets in a lot of bad goals and frequently tries to give back huge leads. Never mind the few times per game he miscommunicates with defensemen and either leaves the puck sitting behind the net for no reason or makes a bad play with it. I think he feels he has to play the puck since Brodeur does but he really shouldn’t.
2. Continuing from 1, I don’t think he deserves the playing time he gets over Weekes. It is inexplicable to me (except for the trade bait theory) as to why he gets so many starts. I think Weekes is a much better team player (see 3).
3. He has given obnoxious interviews referring to Devils defenseman as “his defenseman” and saying things like the team needs to buckle down more in games like the Rangers 8-5 game where his bad goals let the Rangers back into the game. I can’t remember the details but I remember hearing of an interview where he was critical of the team for not playing him much a couple of years ago. Note how we don’t hear this from Weekes where it would be much more justified.
4. He is getting a lot of praise that I think is undeserved (see 1). I think the Devils have a good team system and a good team this year and like Detroit, they can (and do) win with an average goalie. I hate when people get undeserved praise.
That’s all I can think of for now, anyone else have other reasons?
Hmmm, I didn’t know about this interview. That’s a totally legitimate reason to dislike him. But hey, we’re talking about sports, so I wasn’t asking for any rational reasons anyway!
(although admittedly, if it were anyone else saying the things he says in interviews, I wouldn’t really mind. I just want to hate Clemmer)
Exactly! When Marty calls the D “his defensemen”, we’re all like, “He’s so charming!” but when Clemmer does it, it’s like, “What have YOU done to deserve that?” Of course, part of my problem is that I’m also like, “Watch it, buster. Those are Marty’s d-men you’re talking about.” (Meanwhile, Marty thanked only his forwards — and only Madden and Pando, at that — when he accepted the Vezina last year, so Clemmer’s probably thinking, “I really can’t win, can I?”)
I never claim to be rational!
That actually was a really rational explanation for the Clemmer hate. I can’t believe he seriously expected the Devils to sit Marty more so he could play. Is Clemmer new? Does he not realize that Marty’s won a Vezina or two and is Marty Fucking Brodeur? Even I know that you let Marty be Marty and my Devils knowledge is limited to what I’ve learned here.
And apparently the Sabres are playing the “Sen’s” tomorrow night. I may have to hurt the Sabres web dude for that one.
I can’t believe he seriously expected the Devils to sit Marty more so he could play.
Yeah, it was so bizarre at the time. I mean, I don’t think he honestly expected to be getting a crack at the starting job over Marty, but the fact is that he was an 8th-round pick. It’s not like there were a million other pro teams knocking down his door, and he was just unlucky enough to get stuck behind Marty. I get the whole “I could do more if I was given a chance to play more” thing, and rationally, I understand exactly what he was saying in that essay. But it just came off sounding so assy, especially considering how terribly he played on the rare occasions where he did get a chance to start. Ugh. I just hate him. And his $30,000 teeth. :P
So you guys are playing the Sen’s, eh? I suppose that copy editor can go hang out with the one who approved the sign at The Rawk for the Devil’s Dressing Room. :D
Colin White is more important to our D than anyone cares to admit. His numbers don’t do his presence justice.
yeah, and it seems like only yesterday that some folks wanted to send him packing to anyone who would assume the payments along with a bag of pucks…lol
don, you’re so right. Whitey’s absences this season have made me understand the constant grumbling that we need at least one more solid d-man. The drop-off from him to Jay Leach is fairly large. :D
(And for the record, I’ve always liked Whitey! Okay, maybe not when he was getting benched by Larry in that Toronto series, but at least since he had the eye injury and we all had to confront our fears of a Whiteyless existence…)
Whitey’s the straw the stirs the drink! We saw it last year when he and Langer were out, and again each time he’s been out this time. It’s shocking, because he doesn’t seem to ever do anything on the ice, but the numbers in the W-L columns don’t lie!
Also, Mike, you’re so right about Clemmer’s communication issues. I couldn’t put my finger on it until Schnookie mentioned it during a game a few days ago, but there really are a lot of moments where he and “his” D don’t seem like they’re on the same page.
Hey, does anyone here have Google Analytics? I decided it sounded like fun, and signed up for it, but now I have NO.IDEA. where to put my code. I’m…very blonde.
I had been told that WordPress and Google Analytics don’t really play well together, but that was almost two years ago. I have no idea if it works better now. Sorry! I’m pretty blonde, too, I guess. :D
Oh I hadn’t heard that, Schnookie. Thanks! Darn. Maybe the first time I want to be on blogger…
I thnk yer on to something with the communication issue. Last night when he left the puck for Andy “Lazarus” Greene (no relation to Mike Green) and Lazarus turned to slow down whatever MSG employee was on rushing, I yelled at the telly for the lads to start talking to each other out there. This seems to happen a couple times a game, where it doesn’t for Marty or Weekes-y. That said, I don’t hate Clemmer, but I also don’t think our system changed just for him. I think Sutter’s system is blossoming right now and Clemmer just happens to be the most conspicuous inheritor of that change (followed by Zubes and even Gio with his penchant for jumping into passing lanes to break up some offensive rushes). If Marty were on the ice, I believe his numbers would be ridonkulous. As for why Weekes doesn’t get more time, that is a mystery. But it is telling that his starting opportunities have been few and far between since his Hurricane days.
Yup, after running through the forums it sounds like it’s a no go. Oh well. I did fine without it until now.
Last night when he left the puck for Andy “Lazarus” Greene (no relation to Mike Green) and Lazarus turned to slow down whatever MSG employee was on rushing, I yelled at the telly for the lads to start talking to each other out there.
Hey, me too! In fact, I very nearly threw a clot over that play. Heh.
As for the system changing for Clemmer alone, I’ll admit that it’s very simplistic for me to say that. I think Marty getting hurt was the best thing to happen for Sutter as far as being able to hasten change among a rather notoriously mule-headed group of players. As soon as Number 30′s not in the net behind them, our beloved gang of coach-killers had to turn to Plan B, which meant listening to Sutter and putting out a little more effort than they did last year. Just a little. Heh. Anyway, if they can keep this up after Marty gets back, it should be a wondrous sight to behold.
Those plays by Clemmer are unconscionable and stand out in stark contrast to his other top ten stats. He may be a 20 (or 30!) game winner this season but he will never out play his busher status with those gaffes.
And now to engage in a little schaden fruede: the new marquee coach-killers have to be the SensBOLTS! The sound of “sucking down the drain” is almost deafening from the Ottawa right now.
As for the system changing for Clemmer alone, I’ll admit that it’s very simplistic for me to say that.
But your main thesis that the system the Devils are playing in front of Clemmer is not the system the Devils played in front of Marty holds true. Ergo, anyone saying Clemmer’s stats prove Marty isn’t as good as Devils fans want to say he is, is a jerkfaced meany.
alix, WordPress already uses Google Analytics, apparently, and that’s why you can’t get more statbitty goodness from it. If you don’t have Sitemeter already, that’s a fun one to play around with that does work on WordPress.
And now to engage in a little schaden fruede: the new marquee coach-killers have to be the SensBOLTS!
Oh man, are they ever! The SensBOLTS! put the Gomez-era Devils to shame with their mad coach-killing skillz! It’s DELICIOUS!
Thanks, Pookie! I’ll give that a whirl. Who knew a year and four months ago, I would become obssessed with blog stats. Hee.
Pookie, I agree with that, too. Without Marty’s injury, Sutter’s forecheck-for-the-heckuvit style might never have been embraced in the way it is now.
The boys have been chippier this season, too. Engblom made a comment about their fighting and/ or fighting penalties being top ten as well. Although Rupper went down like a sack of doorknobs when Orr wound up and throttled him. I can’t believe he didn’t see that wallop coming, b/c I had time to utter “Yipes- here it comes!” before it landed.
Meanwhile, Marty thanked only his forwards — and only Madden and Pando, at that — when he accepted the Vezina last year, so Clemmer’s probably thinking, “I really can’t win, can I?”/
On top of that, Marty did what no player has ever done with that speech, told Lou in a public forum that the team needed to be improved. Admittedly, the speech was off-the-cuff, he had no notes, it was obvious he never expected to win (no kids, no – at the time – fiancee with him, only his Dad was there with him – Lou attends anyway).
And we do think this stuff is charming coming from him. Whether Lou thought it was charming is another matter entirely.
But the back-up goalie whining that he’s not playing because of the 3-time Cup winner/multiple Vezina award winner – not charming. And being possessive about the players in front of him – not charming.
The boys have been chippier this season, too.
It constantly amazes me that we have so many fights this year, but I don’t feel like the lineup is dragged down by knuckle-dragging fight-goons. (Now, if Holik ever fought, that would be a different story…) I mean, I’m not a huge fan of fighting in hockey, but I really can’t complain about the contributions Clarkson and Rupper have made this year (especially since I don’t blame Rupp for Pando being benched). All in all, this Devils team is — dare I say it? — highly entertaining. ::Shudder:: I never thought I’d see the day. :P
But the back-up goalie whining that he’s not playing because of the 3-time Cup winner/multiple Vezina award winner – not charming. And being possessive about the players in front of him – not charming.
Word!
it was obvious he never expected to win
Heh. I dunno. The way he swaggered up to the stage (he was just his sweaty pads and a bottle of champagne away from finding Paul Kariya and snotting, “You had a good season” :P), he looked like a guy who knew he was winning, but was perfectly happy to be off-the-cuff and unaccompanied. :D
Heh. I dunno. The way he swaggered up to the stage (he was just his sweaty pads and a bottle of champagne away from finding Paul Kariya and snotting, “You had a good season” :P), he looked like a guy who knew he was winning, but was perfectly happy to be off-the-cuff and unaccompanied. :D/
Maybe he could have said that to Lundqvist except they don’t speak to each other. Thinking about that, and the whining Clemmensen article – are we sure these guys are men? The Diva behavior…well, they are professional athletes. But they were supposed to be hockey players.
are we sure these guys are men?
I ask myself that every time I see a photo of Derek Roy.
If Marty and Prawn want to be Divos, they’ve earned it, in my opinion. They can talk the talk and walk the walk. Clemmer’s had one solid chunk of a season. That’s hardly enough for him to think he’s the second coming of Marty.
Hee, you’re right on both counts, Amy — about Roy-Z and diva goalies. And really, as Boomer loves to sigh about pro hockey players, they are all just little boys with sticks. :D
Amy, :^:::::::::::::::::::
on February 10, 2009 at 2:12 pm Schnookie
And now to engage in a little schaden fruede: the new marquee coach-killers have to be the SensBOLTS!
i guess they are, but at the same time management has to look to themselves as a large part of the problem..in a league with a very hard salary cap (and my hindsight being a perfect 20/20) i’d have to think that whoever thought they should led zdeno chara walk and keep wade redden must have some serious ‘splainin’ to do…