Oil Country.....all the time!

Return of Oilers Hockey

2011-09-21T14:54:00.001-06:00

We are all excited that the 2011-12 season is almost under way. Even Mark is excited. Although I am not sure exactly how excited he is....as small as that towel is, it covers just enough (too bad)!

Training camp is under way and the first preseason game was last night in Edmonton and Saskatoon. Split squads played the Hawks in Saskatoon and the Wild in Edmonton. Toonville saw the Nuge, Smyth and Eberle while Edmonton was treated to the Swedish line and Hall. I was at the Edmonton game so I cannot say how well the other split squad played but they nevertheless won the game 4-2. By all accounts, Dubnyk played quite well.

At least one of our goalies had a good game last night because it was a dreadful 30 minutes of action for the one and only, Mr. Nikolai Khabibulin. Three goals on seven shots in the first period. We can give him a pass on the first goal that deflected off one of the defenders (Marincin I believe) but the other two were ugly.

Some quick thoughts from the game:

Musil and Marincin struggled along with most of the defense. Try-out kid Tupulov had some shaky moments but you can see there is talent there but wow is it raw. I would like to see the Oilers sign him to Oklahoma and see if they can work out the rawness.
Taylor Hall picked up where he left off last season. He had several first rate chances and easily could have scored a hatty. Bad penalty late in the game led to the winning goal by the Wild. D'oh!!
The Swedish meatballs line played very good together. Lander, Paajarvi and Omark obviously have chemistry and it'll be interesting to see if they play on a line together.
Will Lander make the team? With that game, yes. However, it is more dependent on whether Nugent-Hopkins makes the team out of training camp and stays up. Lander will at the very least be one of the first call-ups and should play half the year with the Oilers.
Hordichuk? I thought he knew how to fight.
Belanger can win faceoffs, except the one that led to the winning goal (oopsie)!

It's only one preseason game but you can see where the strengths and weaknesses of this team lie; weak defense and goaltending but getting stronger up front. Hopefully Edmonton gets to see the Nuge at the next preseason game along with a few more of the regulars.

Go Oilers!

The Return of a Team I Never Cheered For!

2011-06-01T10:56:00.000-06:00

This picture is from April 4, 1990, game one of the divisional semifinals between the glorious Edmonton Oilers and the perennial loser Winnipeg Jets. Winnipeg would win this game 7-5 and end up taking a commanding 3 games to 1 lead in the series. However, Edmonton would not go down without a fight and they came back to win the next three games and win the series in seven games. This is the last time the two teams met in the NHL playoffs and I was there for games three, four and six in Winnipeg.

Two car loads of family drove from Minnedosa to Winnipeg with our CBC sign (Crazy Boyd Clan + Bruce), a two hour journey to watch hockey. With my dad, brother, uncle, and cousins all cheering for Winnipeg, I was the lone Oiler fan and in my opinion, the voice of reason. I refused to dress in white, would not participate in the charge of the white brigade but happily accepted my white pompoms and cheered mightily for my Oilers. As my cousin recently told me last month, I was the annoying Oiler fan on the trip and irritated him immensely during these games. Mission accomplished.

Winnipeg won games three and four, with one going into overtime. I was devastated but my boys refused to die, winning game five and coming back to Winnipeg for game six and seven. I was elated and very annoying to my Jets crew. I took pride in how many people I could annoy. I went to many Oilers games in Winnipeg and was sad when the Jets left town in 1996.

Fast forward a few years and I'm living in Winnipeg getting my Master of Arts in history. The Jets left several years before in 1996 and the only hockey I got was the occasional pre-season game (usually the Oilers) and a trip to Edmonton in 2000 for some playoff hockey. Yes my Oilers lost again to Dallas but it was a close game.

I finally moved to Edmonton in 2003 and during the first year, I was lucky to gets tickets for Grant Fuhr's retirement (front row baby), the Heritage Classic (finally seeing Gretzky in an Oilers uniform) and several years later, I was able to buy season tickets just in time for their run to the Stanley Cup final.

Fast forward six years, the Oilers are in a rebuild and hockey has returned to Winnipeg. While I can never abandon my Oilers, I think I can cheer for Winnipeg as my second team. In any case, I'm escatic that hockey has returned to my home province. I go home two to three times a year so I am thrilled my family will be able to hit up hockey games once again. I am debating about being there for Winnipeg's home opener and have told my family I will actually cheer for them (unless they play my Oilers). It will bring back a lot of good memories.

One final thought, let's hope they are named the Jets. I know it is not the same team returning and continuity will take a hit but Ottawa got their Senators name back (yes a longer break between teams) so why not the Jets? People will still buy the merchandise even though they have Jets stuff. But most importantly, a majority of the fans in Manitoba want the Jets so if you want them to ante up for tickets, you'd better keep a bit happy. Also, I have not liked any of the other possibilities floating around: Falcons, Polar Bears, Moose. They do not work.

Welcome back to Winnipeg! Hockey rules!!

Anyone but Vancouver

2011-05-10T20:07:00.001-06:00

So our Oilers are getting another first round draft pick. Yeah this happened a month ago but I've been busy. I am watching the NHL playoffs but let's face it, if my Oil aren't involved, I'm not as involved. However, I am watching even though all the teams I cheered for in the first round are out (Montreal, Pittsburgh and Chicago). I am now cheering for Tampa Bay and whoever Vancouver plays. I just do not want those diving cheating Canucks winning anything. I hate divers.

I am watching the Sharks-Wings game right now before I head off to System of a Down concert. Wings are getting so many chances but can't bury them or Niemi is holding the Sharks in this game. It is an elimination game for the Wings so they better start burying their chances soon.

I am planning a trip to Rome and Athens in October. I have been crazy busy researching my trip. I hope to book it soon. I wish miss the first three weeks of the Oilers season which makes me sad. I missed the first three weeks when I went to Germany in 2008 but I did keep up with the scores for part of the trip. I hope they have a better October this year than in 2008. They started 4-0 but lost the next 5. So let's not repeat that, okay?

Did the Wings score finally? Crap, it was the Sharks.

Anyway, with another first round pick which I think the Oilers will select Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (read some of the head scout's interviews, seems like this is the guy) even though I was hoping for Larsson. But these guys are the experts and all I want is for them to take the best player available. My only concern with Hopkins is quite a few of his points are scored on the powerplay. I hope he is not a PP specialist. But lots of praise coming out for the kid so this could be the guy.

Oilers do not have to make the playoffs next year BUT BUT BUT they have to be in the mix. They cannot be out of the race by December. Just compete harder, put up some more points and maybe keep Khabby out of the goal more often. Give the fans something to cheer for.....

GOILERS!!!

Down go the Habs!

2011-02-18T09:25:00.000-07:00

Twice a year, the Leafs and Habs visit Rexall Place. Both of these team's fans are annoying as hell. They infiltrate the arena, infecting it with their douchiness, and out cheer the home team. However, last night, the home team got the last laugh and the biggest cheers when the game was over. The Edmonton Oilers, who are currently sitting in 30th in the NHL, yes that is dead last, beat the Habs, a playoff team.

It was a delightful night of hockey. Oilers fans have not had a lot to celebrate this year yet they continue to show up to games and support their team. Last week, the Oilers played their worst hockey of the year. It was so uninspired, it was probably the most pissed off I've been after a game. It seemed like they didn't care. Yes this team is not built to win but for fuck sakes, show up and give a damn. Where is your pride?

They finally showed up against Dallas and Montreal this week. This is the Oilers team I expected to see occasionally this year. We have not seen them often enough, especially the last couple of months. Finishing in a lottery position is not in doubt. Finishing dead least is now in doubt especially with Ottawa finally blowing up their team after a dreadful run this year. The Devils and Islanders are winning and moving out of the bottom two so it is now a two horse race.

Last week I wanted the Oilers to finish dead last and get the best chance for the first overall pick. Today? I do not give a damn about the first overall pick. I want wins. I want excitement. I want Oilers hockey. So finishing second last is fine with me. As I write that, I do realize that is a very funny comment. This is a rebuild, so you got to go with the flow!

We are also coming up on trade deadline so rumors are floating around like crazy. Many involve our very own Penner and Hemsky. In fact, the Hemsky rumors are growing by day and are making me damn nervous. I wrote a lengthy article for The Fourth Period regarding both Ales and Dustin at the end of December. I still feel the same way. Keep Hemsky and Penner, get them signed to extensions and continue the rebuild. If they do not want to sign extensions, trade away. But if they do, you must do everything in your power to NOT be swayed away by sexy prospects or another first round draft pick.

In Hemsky, you're getting almost a point per game player, is in the top five for even strength points and is very exciting. Penner brings power, a big body on a small team and drives to the net. Trading these players will only set back the team and the rebuild. It does not help to trade away your best players for magic beans. This team needs NHL players. It's that simple.

My latest article for The Fourth Period is up here....was posted a few weeks ago.

As Taylor Hall said last night, "One win is a fluke, two is a streak." Let's continue the streak!!!!

GOILERS!

Battle for the Basement

2011-01-18T10:00:00.002-07:00

It has been a bitch of a January so far in Edmonton. We've had a lot of snow; roughly 45-50 cm in the past two weeks. It's snowmageddon around here.

However, we can always count on our Edmonton Oilers to perk up our spirits. What? They have won only 2 games in their last 8? Yikes. They also haven't scored on the PP in 11 games going 0/37 during that stretch. There have been some hard games to watch but in the same breath, there has been some exciting hockey.

Exciting last place hockey? The Oilers are fighting for last place with the Devils and Islanders. Who will win? I have no problem with our Oilers finishing last one more time. This team was only six points out of a playoff spot in early December but are now solidly in the bottom three. There have been injuries (Whitney, Horcoff, Eberle), inconsistency, poor goaltending (Khabibulin who is winless in his last eight) and an anemic powerplay.

The games against the Ducks on Sunday is a prime example of the problems of this team: failure to show up until the second period, getting down early in a game (3-0), mounting a big comeback (2 quick goals), exciting hockey, and failure to score on the powerplay (which included a 6-3 in the final minute).

This is typical of a rebuilding team. I do not want to excuse this team for their poor play at times but this is going to happen over the next year or two. Tambellini needs to provide a better supporting cast. He did a good job this past summer but never found his third line center who can win faceoffs and kill penalties. He did not find a good shutdown defenseman. What will happen with the goalie situation? Is Dubnyk the man? He needs to play more games at the very least so the coaching staff can get a better idea of the future possibility.

Fans are very supportive of this rebuild. They understand it cannot happen overnight but are seeing small steps forward already.

Here is my latest article for The Fourth Period which I submitted before xmas. Time to get going on the next one.

Do not trade Hemsky or Penner. I really want Tambellini to make sure he does not cock this up. They are only traded IF IF IF IF they do not sign an extension this summer. I will keep advocating for both these players as I feel they are necessary to this rebuild.

p.s. Happy Birthday Mark Messier.....my favorite hockey player! I adore thee!

Playoffs or a Lottery Pick?

2010-12-17T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Western Conference once again is tight with only six points separating eighth place from last. Our Edmonton Oilers are sitting in last place but are in contention for a playoff spot. Of course there are six other teams on the outside fighting to get into that eighth spot which includes the defending champions Chicago. I'm not surprised to see Chicago in this position since they had to gut their team last year due to salary cap issues and let their goalie go and sign Turco instead.

While sitting six points out of a playoff spot, the Oilers are also in a lottery position (5th) today. The players are not thinking of the lottery nor the future. They want to win. They are competitive athletes and you want to see this passion and desire to win from them. However, this team is not a contender. They have major holes in their lineup (hello defense) and have to find better grinders or plugs. But it is nice to see the team compete albeit inconstantly.

The management put this team together not to win right now. This is a team destined for a lottery pick but they are developing a bit quicker than anyone thought. Hall and Eberle are leading the charge while Hemsky and Horcoff are out with injury. Linus Omark (pictured above) got the call up when Hemsky went out and he is certainly making the most of it. His spectacular shootout goal was all about confidence. Not the sexiest move but to try that in his first NHL game was ballsy!

Omark has played four games and has four points. He got his first NHL goal last night against Columbus to go along with his two assists. It was a very good performance. While he is a smaller guy, he does not play like one. He protects the puck surprisingly well and does not get pushed around too much. He is very good on the powerplay, coming off the half board and generating chances. I think playing in the AHL for two months was very important to his development. He got to know the North American game, struggled early on until he found his game and built up his confidence.

I have been following Omark for several years, hoping he would finally make his way over to the Oilers and would not be a disappointment. While it has been just four games, he is living up to expectations. He is not just a shootout specialist. If he continues this play, the Oilers will have to find room for him when Hemsky returns. No way this kid goes back to the AHL. Where does this leave other bubble players? You do not want to shuttle him to the fourth line. This kid needs to play in the top 9 at the minimum so players like Brule and Cogliano are now expendable.

Hemsky is supposed to be out for one month so that takes us to the first week in January. Who stays and who goes?? If you move Cogliano, Brule could move over to center. Or do you waive Jacques or MacIntyre who are basically useless and move Brule to the fourth line? There will be some decisions needed when Hemsky returns.

The Oilers have lacked depth in recent years so this is a nice problem. So does this team have a real chance to get into the playoffs? It's not a completely crazy notion but I suspect they will fall short. The Oilers give up way too many shots on net and scoring chances. Last night, they gave up 23 shots in the first period alone and came out with a 2-1 lead simply because Columbus does not have a strong goalie. Against the Detroits or Vancouvers, I doubt that would be the case.

So let's enjoy the ride. This team will probably end up in the bottom ten and possibly bottom five, but they are a very fun team to watch.

Oilers vs Canucks - Another Shootout Please!

2010-12-12T15:13:00.001-07:00

The Oilers are 7-2-1 in their last ten games. They are no longer in the last place but are sitting just outside a lottery draft pick position (6th). With Horcoff and Hemsky out for extended periods, this team may still end up in a lottery position but damn they are making it exciting. With Hemsky out, Linus Omark finally got the call and made the most in his first NHL game. He had a tough start to the game, failing to clear the puck out of the zone which resulted in a goal. His line, which included fellow callup Ryan O'Marra and recently hot Ryan Jones, were out chanced badly in the game. However, Omark did get some powerplay time and made a nice move on the half boards, drove the net for a shot and Gilbert jumped on the rebound. One assist in his first game would have been a decent start BUT Omark brought the sizzle when the game went into the shootout. Mr. Youtube did it again. After Eberle scored a beautiful goal and Hall missed, it was left to Omark to clinch and win the game. In his first NHL game, he brought his balls with him.

Tampa Bay claimed this goal was disrespectful. The players whined and bitched after the game. It was embarrassing. The shootout was added to the game for a reason; excitement!! As Don Cherry said on coaches corner, "This is a gimmick within a gimmick." When Don Cherry does not admonish a European player for this ballsy move, then Tampa Bay really needs to shut the hell up. Man up. It was not against the rules. If you do not like it, too god damn bad. You could have done the move. Or maybe here is something shocking for Dan Ellis, STOP THE PUCK!

It was an exciting start for Linus Omark. I despise the shootout. I hate it with a passion but if we must have it in the game, I want more goals scored like this. Rexall Place went crazy, twitter went nuts....Omark was trending not only in Canada but worldwide. The hockey and non-hockey world was talking about this rookie kid and the goal. This is good for the game. Was it the most spectacular goal? Of course not but since this was his first NHL game, you have to give the kids kudos for bringing it and having the balls to try something like that in his first NHL game and shootout attempt.

The Canucks are in town tonight. Anyone else want another shootout? Hell yes! I do want Omark to play a bit better at even strength and beef up his defensive play. The Oilers were outshot 17-1 in the third period but came out like gangbusters in the overtime so come on Oilers, a little more consistency please. The team as a whole has been playing quite well over the last ten games with our rookies leading the way. Our aging goalie is bringing it as well. Dubnyk will get the start tonight which is necessary. Let's not tire out Khabibulin too much and give the other rookie a chance to make his mark and continue his development.

Let's go Oilers. I want another win and possibly another shootout!

Living up to the Hype!

2010-10-08T10:17:00.001-06:00

What an amazing season opener for the Edmonton Oilers. The Oilers laid a smackdown on the Calgary Flames, winning in decisive fashion 4-0. Jordan Eberle had the goal of the night and will be mentioned at the end of the season as one of the best. It was also his first NHL goal and that will be considered one of the best first NHL goals ever as well. Oh did I mentioned it was a short-handed goal too? Taylor Hall did not hit the scoresheet but had 4 shots on goal and some very nice chances in the game.

I honestly can't say any Oiler had a bad game. Hemsky was dangling and scored a slapshot goal. Penner was using his body to create chances. Brule scored a nice powerplay goal. There were numerous fights by Fraser, Jones and Smacintryre!!

The Oilers had a tough second period where they gave up lots of chances and were back on their heels. However, they buckled down and came out on fire in the third period. This was a great game.

What is in store for game two??

Preseason hoopla!

2010-09-23T14:13:00.003-06:00

The big 3 (Hall, Eberle, Paajarvi) are in training camp right now, trying to make the team. I believe all three will make the Oilers and start the regular season in Edmonton. The Oilers beat the Canucks last night in the first pre-season game in which the Oilers left most of their starters at home except Horcoff and Eberle who played well together. Tonight is the first home pre-season game and first Taylor Hall game. The town is excited and ready to cheer for Hall and the entire team. Myself? I love me some Hemsky. He is the best player on the team and he needs to rebound from shoulder surgery last year. He is very important to the team. Hemsky is now a veteran and needs to lead this team.

The lineup for tonight:

Hemsky - Gagner - Hall
Penner - Cogliano - Paajarvi
Reddox - Fraser- Brule
MacIntyre - Pitlick - Omark

Smid/Foster
Belle/Plante
Petiot/Gilbert

Dubnyk/Deslauriers

Khabibulin will not play quite yet. Maybe on Sunday? They're going to have to get him in for three or four games. He needs the work. He hasn't played since last November. He was convicted of extreme DUI last month and sentenced to 30 days in jail. He is appealing his sentence and therefore is in camp and ready to play. We don't know how long the appeal process will take or if he will play the entire season. So the Oilers are in limbo and can only hope he can return to form and play the entire season, and if necessary, serve his jail time in the off-season. We wait.

It's almost hockey time. It's been a looooooooooooong five months.

As a side note, I've been asked to write a weekly blog/article for The Fourth Period on the Oilers. I'm honored to be asked and look forward to continue writing for this blog, contributing occasionally to Oilers Jambalaya and now to The Fourth Period. My first article went up a couple weeks ago on the Oilers off-season.

Boozy Bulin is going to jail but for how long?

2010-08-31T13:41:00.000-06:00

Nikolai Khabibulin is going to jail. He won't be walking the red carpet, he'll be walking into a jail cell. We will find out for how long at 4 pm today. Nik was convicted of three charges last week (DUI over 0.08, extreme DUI and excessive speeding). The minimum sentence is 30 days jail for extreme DUI. I'm sure his lawyer will try to get some of that time in an alcohol treatment facilty but I'm not sure that is possible. In any case, he will spend some time in jail and will miss the Oilers training camp at the very least. He could miss more time since he should have problems entering Canada (DUI's are considered felonies in Canada) and may be suspended by the NHL.

I doubt the Oilers will try to void his contract since this is his first offence, he didn't hit anything or anybody and they would face one helleva fight from the players' association.

So in a few hours we'll find out his sentence and then Tambellini will be available to comment. Will he stand by his man? Probably.

Is it October yet?

2010-07-22T11:21:00.005-06:00

I want some hockey. Look at this poor dog, he wants some Oilers hockey too!!! So our Oilers have been quite busy in the off-season from drafting Taylor Hall first overall, signing third and fourth liners for the Oilers and bulking up their AHL team. Check out all the signings at the Oilers website here. Tambellini is not done yet as he still has several restricted free agents to sign with the two most important being Sam Gagner and Andrew Cogliano. I'm surprised they didn't sign Gagner right away but I'm not sure which side is dragging their heels on this. I'm sure it'll get done but would prefer this sooner rather than later.

Next up is our goalie situation. Deslauriers has elected for arbitration but the Oilers rarely go this route and will likely resign him before his hearing as they did with Brule. I'm surprised JDD thinks arbitration is a good idea. Did you really have a good year? You went 16-28-4 with a save percentage of .901. Yeah sit the fuck down.

So with Deslauriers going to arbitration and Dubnyk signed, we're left with Nikolai Khabibulin or as I like to refer to him now as Boozy Bulin. After trying to worm his way out of the charge (my back hurts) and the jury trial postponed several times, Boozy is going to a judge trial at the end of August. So at least we'll know what is going on before training camp starts but what happens if he is convicted? The maximum penalty is 6 months in jail (minimum is 30 days). We are left with the unknown at this point. If convicted, when will he be sentenced? Will he have to do much time? Will he miss training camp? Can he even enter Canada? Can we void his contract? The only thing going for Boozy is this is his first offense so maybe he can wrangle a plea bargain for a lesser charge (Arizona is very tough on DUI's so that is unlikely).

I searched online and found this regarding conviction of extreme dui:

In Arizona there are specific laws and penalties for people who fall under the category of "Extreme DUI". A person is said to be an Extreme DUI if their blood alcohol concentration is 0.15 or higher within two hours of driving or being in actual control of a vehicle. A person convicted of Extreme DUI is convicted of a criminal misdemeanor.

However this site says Canada views misdemeanor DUI convictions as felonies so he would have to apply for a waiver or something to enter Canada but that will take time and he will likely miss part of the season. So if you don't show up for training camp, does that void your contract or something? A few months back I thought a plea bargain was likely but that probably would have happened by now, non? It's possible. We'll have to wait and see.

So while we wait for news on Boozy, July is almost over and August will be here and closer to the hockey season. I need hockey sooooooooooooooo badly.

Moose and the Kid!

2010-07-03T15:05:00.005-06:00

I forgot to post after the hockey celebration at Commonwealth last month. Most of the gold medal winners from the men and women's Olympic hockey teams were in town (although a certain Devil, aka Pronger, did not have the balls to show up). They showed highlights from the gold medal games (did I tell you that I was in Vancouver at both games? Oh yes, I saw Canada win gold in hockey) and they chatted with some of the players too! Anyway, here are a couple pics my friend took of the Kid and the Moose.

Taylor vs Tyler

2010-06-25T13:24:00.003-06:00

2010 NHL draft is only a few hours away and the debate still rages. Are you Team Taylor or Team Tyler? The winger or the center? The beauty or the beast?

The Oilers will pick first for the first time in their history. Yes that's what happens when you finish 30th. After moving Quinn upstairs, Renney is the man. He will coach a very different team this fall. The team has already traded for Colin Fraser (Hawks) who is the elusive third/fourth rugged centerman who can take draws and kill penalties. There will be more moves before the puck drops in October. In fact, there could be many moves made today and tomorrow. Moreau and Souray are locks to be moved (Moreau will be bought out if he can't be moved) along with scary rumors of moving Hemsky.

DO NOT TRADE HEMSKY.

Hemsky is signed for two more years. You don't trade someone who is your best player, is on a cheap contract and has two years to go. Next summer is the only time you entertain this thought if he refused to sign an extension. Then trade away. Hemsky should not be traded for prospects or draft picks. It's not necessary and you don't know what you'd be getting in return.

Anyways, I'm heading to the draft party at Rexall very soon.

Taylor vs Tyler. I have no clue who is the better player or who will be. Hall seems to be better right now but Seguin may end up being better. I'm confused. Just make the pick and we'll debate this for another ten years. I hope they pick the right one!

GO OILERS!!

2010 Stanley Cup Final

2010-05-29T16:33:00.002-06:00

Philadelphia vs Chicago - The final has the Flyers vs the Blackhawks and this is a surprise. The Flyers clinched a playoff spot with an shootout win over the Rangers on the last day of the regular season. They've had about twenty goalies this year so they've been crazy inconsistent. I picked the Hawks at the start of the playoffs so I'm sticking with it. I think Niemi will out-play Leighton and the Hawk forwards will use their speed and take over this series. I don't think this is going to be the close and hard hitting series some are predicting. Hawks are going to control the series and not even Chris F'in Pronger can do anything to stop them.

Chicago in FIVE!!

More predictions

2010-05-16T13:26:00.003-06:00

My second round predictions were not on the mark but most predictions were not on the money. I went 1 for4. Yikes. So along with round one, I am 6-4 so far. Not bad.

Chicago vs San Jose - I hate SJ. I don't want them to win. Heatley is a punk. Sure Thornton showed up a bit in round two but you can't count on him. It's the other Joe that has saved the playoffs for them. But I like the Hawks young guns better. The biggest question mark is Niemi who has been up and down during the playoffs. Hawks win only if he plays well. He has to. I think he does. I want him to play well. Hawks in six.

Philadelphia vs Montreal - thanks Boston for CHOKING. Thanks for blowing a 3-0 games series lead. Thanks for blowing a 3-0 lead in game seven. Thanks. I now have to cheer for the Habs. I hope Philly crashes and burns. I hope Pronger actually burns. The devil is someone I cannot cheer for and Philly itself is someone I've never liked. Their history is filled with dirty players and just plain douches. Yeah Bobby Clarke. You too Ron Hextall. No way he should have won the Conn Smythe in '87. I do not believe a player from the losing team should win the Conn. Anyways, this series. Halak is channeling Roy and Dryden, and I think we're watching something really special. It'll be a tight series. Habs in seven again.

So I'm calling for a Hawks - Habs final. I think Hawks go all the way. I was picking them at the start of the playoffs so I'll keep with it.

And it continues

2010-04-29T18:54:00.003-06:00

Here are my picks for round two. I did okay in round one, went 5-3 (stupid west).

Boston vs Philadelphia: Philly lost Gagne, Lapierre, Carter and and that should do it. That is a lot of lost fire power and Boston will get Savard back for round two. Boston in five.

Pittsburgh vs Montreal: Halak played amazing in round one so can he do it again? I think the Pens are getting their game together again after a lackluster regular season. Crosby the golden child takes this team to the conference final again. Pens in six.

San Jose vs Detroit: I think San Jose chokes again. Thornton is Mr. Invisible again and they just don't have it. Detroit had a tough close first round and didn't play great until game seven. I think Detroit will take San Jose. Wings in seven.

Chicago vs Vancouver: rematch from last year, Hawks took out the Canucks last year so can they do it again? Once again, this depends on which Luongo shows up. Who shows up? I will go Hawks in seven but this is an iffy call.

Let's get ready to rumble!

2010-04-14T18:37:00.004-06:00

Here are my quick predictions for this year's 2009-2010 NHL playoffs. The first round has started and these will be my picks.

Pittsburgh vs Ottawa - Pens in seven but Ottawa has a good chance to upset the defending champions. Pens has not looked sharp lately and their goalie has been a pile!

New Jersey vs Philadelphia - Devils in five. Philly has underachieved all year and they will continue to do so. Major issues in goal too.

Washington vs Montreal - Caps in six. Halak will have to channel Roy to even have a chance in this series. He has to steal a couple games outright and hope the defense helps him keep the Caps out of the game. I do not think this happens.

Boston vs Buffalo - Sabres in five. Boston couldn't score goals to save their lives this year and with Miller having a good year, they will continue to struggle to light it up. Boston has no chance in this series and this is the guarantee bet of first round.

San Jose vs Colorado - Sharks in five. While the Avs have game, they are too young and inexperienced to put up much of a fight against the juggernaut that is San Jose and there will be no early round exit for them.

Chicago vs Nashville - Hawks in five. Preds do not have enough of anything to really put up much of a fight in this series. Hawks will dominate even with their young and inexperienced team. They will not be going home early in these playoffs.

Detroit vs Phoenix - Wings in six. Detroit has been on fire since the Olympic break and will continue to dominate in the first round. Yotes have surprised everyone this year but there will be no upset. They may win a couple games because of their MVP Bryzgalov, but won't pull it out.

LA vs Vancouver - toughest series to call simply because we do not know which Luongo shows up. He was great in leading Canada to Olympic gold but since the break, he has been straight up horrible. Luongo has yet to lead his team to any playoff success so the pressure is on him. I'll go out on a limb and say he finds his game just enough to help his team. Canucks in seven.

Stanley Cup - Hawks. Why? I have no idea but if their goaltending holds up, this is the team to beat. SJ should choke again, Pens struggled down the stretch and Caps won't get to the next step yet because goal is an issue along with secondary scoring.

Oilers go for first!!

2010-04-13T13:39:00.005-06:00

The NHL draft lottery takes place tonight at 6 pm (Mtn) and all Oiler fans will be tuned in! The Oilers have a 25% chance of winning the lottery and a 48.2% chance of retaining the first overall position. Lottery odds for all the teams are here. The 30th place team has retained the first overall pick 3 times in the past 4 years.

After a horrible year and finishing 12 points from the 29th team, the Oilers are hoping for a lottery win. If any team deserves a lottery win, it really is this team. They had 530 man games lost to injury (I can't find a list of all team's injury count but this is very very high) and after the loss of our goalie early on, the two backups could not keep the team afloat.

Anyways, there are two very good players in this draft and they're rankings by scouts have flipped between first and second all year. TSN put up their ranking chart and has Hall sitting in first, but Sequin is listed first by Central Scouting.

I'm off to Hudson's for the Oilers draft lottery party and let's hope the Oilers finally win something this year. In any case, the Oilers will draft higher than ever before.

Also, here are my thoughts on Souray and his temper tantrum the other day. I still do not like the public thrashing he does of the Oilers, but if management did pressure him to return from injury early, clean house. But the responsibility should remain with the player....if you're not ready to return, do not. A gun was not held to your head.

GOILERS!!

Vancouver bound!

2010-02-22T21:08:00.003-07:00

I am heading to Vancouver tomorrow morning for the last six days of the 2010 Olympics. So far, the Canadian team has been under-performing and gold medal contenders aren't even hitting the podium. And there is the loss by the Canadian men's hockey team last night to the evil empire of America which drops them into a game with Germany and then a quarter-final matchup with the Russians. Wow they have a very hard road just to get to the gold medal game. The team hasn't played horrible, and in fact carried the play last night in every position except goal. Brodeur is out and now Luongo is in. Aside from the annoying Luooooo chant, I think this is the right choice. Brodeur was not getting the job done and now it's up to the Canuck to show he can finally lead a team to a championship.

The women's hockey team has made the final against the US (no surprise) so they have a very good chance for gold. Curlers are looking good at this point as well. So there are some chances for medals (tonight our ice dancers are going for gold) but this Olympics has seen more disappointments than expected. Maybe more than the last couple Olympics combined.

In any case, I'm off to Vancouver and am hoping to see Canadian gold medals live!! Let's party Vancouver!!!

GO CANADA!!!

Hockey and the Olympics

2010-02-16T17:07:00.005-07:00

With the NHL on an Olympic break, this Oilers blog will now switch over to Olympic coverage with a focus on hockey of course. I will be attending the Olympics during the last six days. I have tickets to the gold medal games for the men and women in hockey. Yes I am lucky and hoping for double gold.

Hockey starts today at the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver. The Americans beat the Swiss this afternoon 3-1 but the game most people are interested in is the Canada vs Norway game. Can the Canadian live up to the hype and pressure to bring home gold?

With a short tournament like this, it's hard to make predictions. Every single person in Canada is hoping and praying (even us atheists) for Olympic gold. The pressure on Team Canada will be the greatest they will ever experience in their life so it will not be easy. I do believe the team has enough experience and are prepared to take this the distance.

In my mind, it is Russia vs Canada but there are other teams that could play a factor. They are the Swedes, Czechs and Finns. I do not believe the Americans are a medal contender nor a dark horse. Ryan Miller will have to channel Roy, Hasek and Plante to stand a chance at a medal. After Canada and Russia, the team with the next best chance is Sweden. I'm not going into deep analysis for each team but based on the play of the top players in the NHL, this is a competition between Canada, Russia and Sweden. I think Canada is the deeper team on defense and in goal. Russia is all offense with no checking forwards or solid stay at home defense. I believe Canada can win because of that. But like we all say, a short tournament can see a goalie ride a hot streak to victory.

I predict Canada gold, Russia wins silver and Sweden beats the Finns for bronze. I have a ticket to semi-final 1 and the gold medal game. I want Canada and Russia in that game; best two teams fighting for gold will be amazing.

Go Canada.

A Christmas Miracle (late)

2010-01-25T09:45:00.004-07:00

With Carolina defeating Boston yesterday, the Oilers are now the worst team in the NHL. We're number one, we're number one! Yes, the best of the worst. So the dive for five is still on and looking very good. The Oilers are winless in 2010, having won only ONE game in their last 18 games, so the only thing left is to look to the future.

Several weeks ago, Big Sexy offered to waive his no-trade clause if necessary and just gave the Oilers a list of the teams he would consider. Rumblings also have the Oilers finally realizing how much they cocked things up and plan to blow it up! So a shopping list of players has been made and GM's across the league have been notified. Six big names are Souray, Visnovsky, Horcoff, Nilsson, Moreau and Staios.

So, are you on board with a rebuild? I certainly am but only if done properly. Some media people are saying a rebuild takes seven years but that's crap. If the new era of cap hockey, it can be done a bit quicker than that. The Oilers have some nice building blocks already in Hemsky and Gagner up front, Gilbert, Grebeshkov and Smid on the back end. Sure they all could play better but it's a good basis to start from. There are some very nice prospects in the system with Eberle, Magnus, Lander, Peckham and Nash. And let's face it, they're going to get a very high draft pick this year. So that all bodes well for the team. So, dump all your horrible contracts, get lots of young players, prospects, draft picks and rebuild properly. The fans will be there for you if you do it properly. No more going gangbusters during free agency, lose out on the top guy and then settle, ie: overpay, for a second rate player. Players will want to sign with the team once you prove you have the pieces in place to be contenders. Don't worry about free agents at this point.

Let's go Oilers. I'm still with you!

Dive for Five?

2010-01-12T08:51:00.003-07:00

Who else misses Hemsky?

Oilers are sitting in 29th place, Hemsky and Khabibulin are out with injuries, pp and pk suck, backup goalie can't stop a beach ball, Souray is open to waiving his no-trade clause if asked and I have half a season worth of Oilers games to attend. I'm so excited.

Nashville is in town tonight. Yawn.

Crosby comes to town on Thursday. Awesome, at least the crowd can cheer for something. And no I won't be cheering for him. I'm still an Oilers fan and will never cheer against them. But they're making it hard to be one these days. Let's hope their mini-camp from the past weekend helps their play. I'm tired of watching mediocre hockey. Play with some emotion, some passion and for god's sake, STOP THE PUCK JDD!!!

Go Oilers!

The Devil Returns, 2.0

2009-11-27T10:06:00.004-07:00

Tonight, the Devil 2.0 makes a visit to Edmonton finally. It only took almost five months to get him here. After letting the Oilers get all hot and bothered for a month, Heater refused to put out. He's a dirty tease, letting the Oilers think he was actually considering coming here. We all know the truth. He used the Oilers to gain leverage with Ottawa. He tried to drive up his own market value because he didn't like his options. Yes, options options options. I believe he repeated that ad nauseum this summer. Heatley believed he was entitled to more options, like he was a king sitting on a throne.

Let's not dwell on the past. Tonight the douche comes to Edmonton and yes, he's playing well. He does have Thornton on his wing so he'd better play well. This is why Edmonton went after him so hard; he can score. But the other players involved in the non-trade are having decent years themselves. Penner has transformed his game and is finally the power forward I knew he could be; Smid has developed into a very nice physical defenseman; and Cogliano, if he ever gets better linemates (Moreau? No one can score with the penalty machine on your line), he will be fine too.

However, the Sharks are coming into Edmonton when the Oil are not at their best. They are 2-6-1 in their last eight games. They've gone through a never ending stream of injuries and battled the flu for a month. They just keep mounting. Two important players will not play tonight: Khabibulin and Hemsky. Hemsky is awaiting results from an MRI. Let's all hope it is not serious. If he's out the season, lottery pick. No doubts. This team needs him more than any other player.

I have a good feeling tonight. I think the Oilers will play a hard game and could sneak out a win if Deslauriers continues his decent play. It's possible.

Update: unofficial from Oilersnation but Hemmer may need surgery and is out season. Let's all say it together, FUCK!!

The Rise of Dustin Penner

2009-10-23T10:38:00.002-06:00

Dustin Penner has finally arrived. After a 2 goal, 3 assist game last night vs Columbus, fans are all a flutter in Edmonton over the play of Penner so far this season. Putting together Hemsky, Penner and Gagner last night, they put together one of the greatest performances in over 20 years. Penner and Hemsky had 5 point nights with Gagner putting up 3 pts. The last time Edmonton had two players with 5 points in one game each was back in 1988 (Carson and Anderson).

Okay, we should step back and be cautiously optimistic. It was one game. Let's say that again: it was one game.

It's no fun being cautious.

The play of Penner has been a lovely surprise. I did feel and was quite vocal over the past two years that Penner had great potential and was being majorly mismanaged last year. Some of it was his fault, no doubt about that. The mismanagement from last year has contributed to his play this year. He was shamed into getting into better shape, a new coaching staff wiped the slate clean and he has silenced all his critics. We saw glimpses of this Penner in the past where he'd drive the net, skate hard to the puck and use his size. He never did it consistently but I felt if he ever did, this was the potential.

Cautious, be cautious.

A big weekend for the flu-ridden team with back-to-back games on the road against Calgary and Vancouver.

Oilers hockey appears to be back. Damn I've missed it.

Hot Oil

2009-10-09T13:02:00.003-06:00

Thank you ESPN and the parents of Sheldon Souray, Andrew Cogliano and Ethan Moreau for creating lovely specimens.

You can check out some other bodies here (note Chara of the Bruins is pic 4) but please, I'm quite content with the Oilers picture.

Moreau = hot OFF the ice

I still love Souray.

Little Cogliano....wow.

Oh yes, there was an Oilers game last night. Another shitty ending with the Lames tying up the game with 1.5 seconds to go. Moreau is wearing the goat horns (horrible pass) but The Wall could have had the tying goal. It was deflected but he was square to the shooter, but didn't flop nor squeezed the five hole. Come on Russian, you had a decent game up to that point.

There are good signs even with the loss. This is not the same team that was pushed around last year. They fight, they hit, they forecheck and play hard. I'm so happy to see the forecheck back. It feels like 2006. It's only been 3 games but I'm happy with the play of most of the team so far.

Defense....you need some work. I mean the entire team defense. They are giving up way too many chances in their zone. Close that up, and chances to tie up a game won't be there.

Now, let's look at that photo again.

2009-2010 Season Opener vs Celine's Calgary Lames

2009-10-03T16:58:00.003-06:00

2009-2010 season finally starts for our Oilers tonight against the Calgary Flames. After a few off-season moves which include a new goalie (Nikolai Khabibulin - left), a new coaching staff, and the return of Mike Comrie, the Oilers are looking to rebound after underachieving last year.

The big issue is a 36 year old goalie coming off a very good year for Chicago but can he dublicate that performance? If the Bulin Wall can, this team should make the playoffs. Of course, you need the forwards to score some goals. Quinn has already put his stamp on this team with JF Jacques starting on the top line, Ryan Stone on the second line with Comrie and O'Sullivan and Gagner starting on the fourth line with Moreau and Stortini. Quinn has brought the crust, but is there any jam?

Many predictions out there are calling for the Oilers to miss the playoffs here, here and here. They're not getting any respect. Most are predicting them to finish 11th in the West (a couple bloggers at Oilersnation pick them 8th). That is wrong. I still think this is a playoff team: defense is strong, forwards are pretty good and as long as the goalie continues his strong play from last year, this should be a playoff team.

Let's take a look back at one of my favorite moments from last year, when Souray moved Moreau out of his way in a fight. Souray is important, the defense is not very physical so his body is needed.

The Duff Man Returns to Edmonton

2009-09-10T15:03:00.003-06:00

After not being able to find a team willing to sign him, little Comrie ends up signing in Edmonton. What?? After the big bust up in 2003, did anyone ever think this would happen? No.

I won't get into a lot of heavy details about why little Comrie demanded a trade but he couldn't handle the pressure of playing in his hometown, couldn't handle any criticism from his coach/GM and yes, he was dicking around with Tommy Salo's wife and yes, Jason Smith kicked his ass. Other media refute this strongly, but it's true. My insider is legit and this is a true story. If not, Jason Smith should not go around telling the story!

Back to the signing, rumor is that it's for 1-1.3 mill and it's a one year deal. The amount is fine, the term is great but the player being signed is not. Although, one could look at his stats and make a case in favor of this signing. Is he better than Pouliot, Nilsson, Brule, and so on? Stats say yes. But the problem is he's a tiny little fella and this team has many of those already. So much for Tambellini's indict of getting bigger and stronger in the off-season.

Pat Quinn, you'd better coach your ass off this year......

So little 89 is an Oiler once again....oh wait, he is not 89 anymore. Our little Sammy Gagner wears number 89. I wonder which one Comrie will take? 666?

Not quite the end to the off-season we all expected, non?

Devil Speaks....

2009-08-21T09:56:00.002-06:00

Well today Dany Heatley (aka The Douchebag or The Devil) will finally speak out. The funniest part of the whole thing is that he will not tell us anything we want to know.

His agent said, "However, out of respect to the Ottawa Senators and all involved, Dany is not getting into specifics...that will remain confidential."

So his part in all this gets to remain confidential, but not the names of those involved? Poor Penner, Smid and Cogliano didn't get confidentiality, did they? No, their names happened to get released. Why? It was leverage. Trade leverage to get him to New York.

So what's the point of this presser? Oh yes, he's working on his image. He has to appear contrite, sorry and spit out all the hockey cliches.

He's still a douchebag. He used Edmonton to drum up more trade talk. I despise hockey players like this. Man up!!

Anyways, just a few weeks until Oilers training camp. I am excited, especially since Heatley will not be an Oiler.

The sun is shining......

2009-07-31T18:03:00.002-06:00

THE INMATES ARE NO LONGER RUNNING THE ASYLUM. Maybe.

The Oilers officially declared themselves out of the Heatley trade mess via a late Friday conference call. Nice timing Tambellini. An announcement late on Friday before a long weekend.

In any event, they can now focus on improving the team. Wait a minute? You are happy with the team and might not make any other moves? You think this is a playoff team? Oh my, it wasn't last year and the team is almost identical (switch a goalie, minus a couple nobodies).

You need at least one more centre......someone who can win a freakin' draw. Without Brodziak, you only have Horcoff. Gags and Cogs can't win many draws yet.

I am happy that Cogliano will be staying, and maybe new coaching will improve the team but there are changes to be made. How about that all elusive shooter you're looking for to play with Hemmer? Yeah you forgot? I'm not surprised.

In any event, good riddance Dany boy.

Give it up? They rarely do!

2009-07-24T10:31:00.003-06:00

One bit of good news for Oiler fans this week: Denis Grebeshkov signs a one year deal worth $3.15 million and avoids arbitration. I don't mind this deal, but would have preferred a 2-3 deal deal instead. A one year deal is good news for Grebs as if he has another good year, he'll get a raise next year (again). Not so good for the Oilers. So far, he has progressed significantly each year and could get a big contract next year.

But let's enjoy the return of our favorite Russian. Sorry Bulin Wall, Grebs is the fave!!!

Well, I almost don't want to talk about this because it's freakin' embarrassing. The Oilers sent some videos to Heatley showcasing the benefits of being an Oiler. Aside from some Hemsky and Gagner magical plays, maybe some shower shots of Souray? That'd entice anyone, straight or not. Right?

Anyways, this whole fiasco is getting out of control. We're now over three weeks and it is apparent he's using the Oilers. He's a cock tease. All you guys know what I'm talking about, right? You've all dated someone like this: she keeps going out with you but won't give it up. She throws a few kisses your way and maybe a little over-the-sweater action, but the clothes stay on and the knees stay closed. She won't give it up.

Heatley is that girl who won't give it up. He needs to sleep on it, he won't reject the Oilers out-right, his agent says he's misunderstood, NHLPA chief says he would seriously consider the Oilers, and so on. He has the Oilers all hot and bothered, and they hope they can get to the promised land if they just stay persistent. If they keep on him, he's going to finally give it up and let them see him naked.

Really, does the cock tease ever give in? Rare.

Walk away Edmonton before you end up with blue balls. Heatley is just a tease.

It's clobbering time!

2009-07-15T14:47:00.004-06:00

The NHL released it's 2009-2010 schedule and it's not bad for our Oilers. No two months on the road to start the season, few back to backs, no huge road trips (6 is the longest) and home and home series with all the Canadian teams. I'm quite okay with the schedule. One problem: only 4 home games on a Saturday and none after December. That's odd. Lots of Tues/Thurs again which is okay but I'd like to know why the Oilers never seem to get a ton of weekend home games. As a season ticket holder, I'd love to have some more weekend games.

I'll make due with another year of Sheldon Souray (got that Tamby?)!!

A douche to rival the douchery of Pronger? Thy name is Heatley

2009-07-02T10:04:00.006-06:00

Dany Heatley demands a trade, then vetoes it. Make a decision. You've spent two days on the decision. You wanted more options. You think Ottawa didn't try hard enough to get a trade. You're blindsided that a deal with Edmonton is in front of you even though the Oilers have stated for a month they are interested and you claimed you would be interested in coming here. You think Ottawa should try harder. You you you you!!!

Walk away Edmonton. Two days ago, I was giddy as a schoolgirl about the prospect of bringing Heatley to Edmonton, but now his true colors are showing. He's a selfish, arrogant prick who thinks of no one but himself. He doesn't get why people are angry with him. He thinks he's being portrayed inaccurately, he's being crucified in the media....blah shut up!

Make a decision!

Say no to the douche!!

Draft Day 2009 - Rock on Oilers!

2009-06-26T10:41:00.003-06:00

This is the Oilers first round draft pick from last year, World Junior Championship hero Jordan Eberle. This year the Oilers will pick 10th barring any trades up or down. The scoop is they are trying to trade up into the top 8. There are also rumors they are trying to trade for Ottawa's Dany Heatley (or Jason Spezza) and they are having discussions with Minnesota over goalie Josh Harding.

They still need to either sign or cut loose Roloson and Kotalik. If Roloson won't take a one year deal, he's outta here. Even a one year deal is not that appealing to me. He played well but Roli is old and is going to break down sooner rather than later. I would prefer the Oilers to find a nice young goalie of the future (JDD is not that guy yet). That's why I liked hearing discussions had started over Harding. I like him a lot.

Anyways, there could be a couple big blockbuster trades today or in the upcoming days. Heatley, Lecavilier, Kessel, Kaberle, etc.

Hockeybuzz is staying the Oilers are closing in on moving up to #4 pick. They're usually full of shit, but you never know.

Another rumor of Souray to LA for pick 5 and others. I love rumors!

Anyways, check out some of the draft day blogs and mock drafts out there. Some interesting stuff. Big story: who goes number 1? Tavares or Hedman? If New York is smart, they take Tavares. He's a bona fide scoring machine. Don't be dumb!!!

GOILERS!

Game Seven - Let's get ready to rumbleeeeeeeeeee!!

2009-06-12T10:30:00.002-06:00

Puck in net.

Pens win.

Wings can suck it.

One more night of hockey.

Good.

Bring on the Oilers.

I'm tired of the crap playoffs

Finals have been boring.

Oilers go all the way in 2010!!

Butch and Sundance!

2009-05-27T09:33:00.007-06:00

Please welcome your new Edmonton Oilers head coach, Pat Quinn, and his associate coach, Tom Renney.

I have to admit all of us in the Oilogosphere were taken a bit by surprise with this announcement yesterday. The Oilers kept this signing under wraps big time. They are very good secret-keepers (KGB-like). I believe most of us expected the announcement to come after the playoffs had finished; interview a few more people maybe?

This is a fairly safe hire. He went with experience. What makes this more interesting is he went with two experienced head coaches. That is going outside the box a bit, but staying safe. The more I think about it, the more I like it. Quinn is the motivator while Renney is the technician. Taking the safe path does not mean it's wrong.

What I do not like about this is the retention of Kelly Buchburger over Billy Moores and Charlie Huddy. In particular, I'm upset about the loss of Huddy. He has worked wonders with the defence and I think he's got a lot of skill. Keeping Kelly may work out though. He's a young coach; always been a hard worker and willing to learn. He's being mentored here!

Along with two new coaches, there will be some player changes as well this off-season. It shall be an interesting couple of months. The draft and free agency is about a month off. Get to work boys!

And did anyone see the Flames presser yesterday? Daryl Sutter sure thinks highly of himself. It was hilarious. Apparently, he's the fourth best coach in the league.

"All the best coaches in the league are under contract and I think there are three guys that are excellent... and then I'm fourth."

Wow what an ego. And he's sooooooo wrong, it's sad! But hilarious! Thanks Shames for being so damn funny!

Oh and someone told me the playoffs are still going. Whatever......hockey sucks without the Oilers!!!

They sucketh ass!

2009-05-06T14:32:00.003-06:00

What a great playoffs it has been for the Calgary Flamers, aka Lames, aka Shames.

I completely forgot to make fun of the Calgary Flames for sucking ass this playoff season. Thank you very much Calgary. I was busy celebrating your dismissal from the playoffs to post.

Goodbye Celine!!! Have a nice off-season!!!

Swwwweeeeepppp!!!

2009-04-23T08:39:00.002-06:00

With no Oilers hockey to watch these days, I've been watching a bit of the playoffs. The game is on in the background, I couldn't care less about most of the teams. There are several things I want: Calgary, Montreal and Washington out in the first round. After that, I want everyone to lose. Yes, I am cheering against everyone.

Montreal got swept....I'm happy.

Craig MacTavish is out!

2009-04-15T13:23:00.002-06:00

Craig MacTavish has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the Edmonton Oilers. This was the right decision. It's time for a change for both sides and I wish MacT all the best. He couldn't get any more out of these players, was erratic all year long in his decision-making and did not have the respect of his team. Sure, the players are still just as culpable for the end result but you can't fire the entire team. Someone needs to be help accountable and today it is MacT. The team is better than their record this year and MacT just couldn't get them to play for him any longer.

You will be remembered for 2006!!

Fear and Loathing in Edmonton

2009-04-08T10:56:00.005-06:00

Mactavish has two games left in the season and his Oilers coaching career comes to an end. He will find work elsewhere and that is fine. He is a good coach, not great, but good! His time in Edmonton is simply over, he made too many critical mistakes this year and did not handle his bench very well.

Back in October, MacT declared this team was good enough to compete for the division title. I think they were too but MacT put the pressure on this team and they were too scared all season long. The team was scared to make mistakes, scared from the drop of the puck and man did they grip their sticks tight all year long. This is on Craig's head.....he put too much pressure on this team. When a player had a bad game, he was in the pressbox (Nilsson and Penner in particular). When they played badly or maybe more accurately, when he perceived them to have played badly, he called them out publicly. The team was full of fear all year long.

It didn't help matters when it appeared certain players were off-limits to criticism. Moreau, Horcoff and Staios come to mind instantly. Other players were hammered for poor play, bad penalties, no intensity but MacT had his favorites and rarely, if ever, did he criticize their play. How do you explain to the rest of the team why Reddox or Moreau is playing with Hemsky? How is Strudwick on the ice in overtime or in the last minute of a game? You can't tell me this didn't cause a disconnect between some of the players and the coach. You can't treat the players with an uneven hand all year and have it not affect you. You can't coach a team that doesn't respect you!

The best example: MacT explains to the media several weeks ago that he has no explanation why the team won't shoot more. They go over it in practice all the time and in particular, they went over it that very morning. That night, they continue to not shoot when opportunities arise. A disconnect!

Another example is when Hemsky starts complaining about being made a checker, you know you're putting too much emphasis on the defensive side of the game. This is a player that never speaks out, so you know there are problems. During their last three games, MacT changed his game plan and started focusing more on the offensive part. Gagner, following the Vancouver game, gave a great interview to CBC where he explains the new system, how much he likes the new aggressive approach and how it's working better. It took MacT until game 78 to bring the system out. Oilers hockey has always been an aggressive, forechecking, skating hard type of system.....he forgot that this year.

MacT, you will always be remembered for 2006 but time is up! Good luck and good bye!

You have to stay!!

2009-04-03T09:33:00.001-06:00

Craig's reaction after Katz's text message that he is not going anywhere.

Coming to the end of the road....

2009-04-02T09:18:00.006-06:00

Do the Oil still have a chance? The fan in me hopes they do, and they do if they run the table on their remaining 5 games. But....will they? Can they?

Maybe MacT should try ask for a measurement on Thorton's stick tonight?

Anyways, check out this interesting article by John Mackinnon at the Journal regarding Mactavish's future and why firing him is not in the best interests of the Oilers. My favorite part of it:

"MacTavish is a first-class coach; the list of his betters is a short one, indeed."

He has 299 wins in 651 games (299-249-47-56 record, w-l-t-otl). He's made the playoffs in 3 of 8 (soon 9?) years and the only playoff rounds that were won were in 2006.

First class indeed! Not that many have better winning percentages, right?

No mention of any of his missteps this year, no mention of playing players out of position, no mention of stubborn treatment of certain players, no mention of mismanaging his goalies, no mention of certain veteran players that MacT played ad nauseum even though they were ineffective, no mention of any of that yet he brings up Penner specifically.

Enough! Penner is not the problem. He is more the solution than the problem. Put him back on the top line. The top line gets results when he plays there!

While I do think MacT is a smart hockey coach, he is certainly not one of the best out there and you can say he didn't have the bodies this year all you want but he thought he did at the start of the year. MacT stated they would compete for the division title. He believed the team was good enough. Sure, we'd all prefer that Lowe/Tambellini had provided another face-off man, signed only 2 goalies and had found a better shut down defenseman rather than Strudwick. But MacT had his voice in the decision-making. He played a big part of the past two years; make no mistake!

Back to tonight's game: to stand a chance, they need to kill some penalties (they went 25% against Anaheim, ouch) and score on the powerplay. AND, try not to be the dead walking in the second period. A full 60 minutes please!!

Last Chance

2009-03-31T15:59:00.002-06:00

JUST DO IT.

WIN!

Денис Гребешков

2009-03-26T10:16:00.003-06:00

Denis Grebeshkov and the Oilers are in Phoenix for another big game tonight. After shitting the bed against Detroit in the third period, they should rebound tonight in the desert. The Oilers played a fairly solid game against Detroit but once again, they got outshot terribly and tried to defend a 1-0 lead for the whole game. They upped their forecheck and put pressure on the Wings at times, but they will need more of that in the next two weeks.

Anaheim is one point up on the Oilers and they play tomorrow night. The next four games are crucial for the Oilers: Phoenix, Anaheim, Minnesota, and Anaheim. Ideally, win all four and then you don't need to run the table against teams like SJ, Calgary or Vancouver to finish the season. Win at least 3 of those games, then you only need a few points to finish the season. Make it easy on yourselves boys!!

One of the most important Oilers right now is Grebeshkov. He has been the best defenseman during the past few weeks (along with Souray). His mobility on the blue line is impressive, moving the puck quickly and cleanly. I really hope he is resigned next year and remains an Oiler. I think one of Souray, Visnovsky, Gilbert or Grebs gets moved this summer....of course that depends on Grebeshkov's contract. If they can bring him in a bit cheaper, they could all stay. If not, it's either Grebs or Gilbert that is gone. I'd prefer Grebeshkov over Gilbert simply for his puck movement and mobility.

Oilers vs Phoenix tonight.....must win and by many goals. I expect a blowout. Deliver boys!!!

Wing It

2009-03-24T09:40:00.003-06:00

Wings are in Edmonton tonight, a potential first round playoff match-up. With 10 games remaining in the regular season, the Oilers are quite firmly in 7th place, 3 pts behind 6th place and a possible Battle of Alberta playoff series. So from here on out, I am cheering for Calgary to keep winning and stay ahead of Vancouver, and for Columbus to lose. We want 6th place so get the hell out of the way! Assholes!

The race is still tight and if the Oilers falter, there is still a decent chance they will miss the playoffs. However, they seem to be getting their game together lately, not withstanding the Minnesota game, and tonight will be a good test for the team. A bonus, most of the teams behind Edmonton are stumbling down the stretch so that is helping.

Roli will get the start again, his 29th consecutive start, and will need to be sharper than his last few games. Roli will be rode more than a lady of the night is during this stretch, at least until a playoff spot is locked up. Only at that point will he get a night off.

I'm calling for an Oilers win tonight. I have a good feeling about the Oilers rebounding from the Minnesota game. Oilers win 3-1.

Update: Interesting story about Hemsky and how he feels he's being under-utilized. Coach wants him to play more defensively, which is fine, but Hemsky feels this at the expense of his offensive play. He also wants more ice-time, wants to carry the load down the stretch and play a more important role. I like that Hemsky is speaking out and he wants more responsibility. Not all players must play defensively. Hemsky is giving up lots of turnovers recently. Is that because the coach is harping on him, making him self-conscious and affecting his play? Let Hemsky be Hemsky....you can't turn every player into a defensive-first player. Give him the freedom to dangle!!!

Oilers vs Avalanche

2009-03-19T13:37:00.002-06:00

Oilers are in Colorado tonight, a 7th place team against the 15th. This should be a slam dunk for our Oilers but after blowing the game on Saturday against this very team, this game will be closer than it should. The Oilers lost three straight games in overtime and gave everyone some nervous moments in Tuesday's game vs St. Louis. They almost blew it in overtime again but held on and made it to the shootout. Beauty of a goal by Kotalik....more players should go high back hand!

Roli starts his 26th game in a row. He kept the boys in the game during the overtime session vs St. Louis so he'll need to be sharp again. Oilers played pretty good against St. Louis, a team on a 7-3 run. So I'm hoping this means they are finally turning it around. I think JDD gets the Chicago game, or it makes sense to give him a start. Roli, while sharp in the St. Louis game, has given up many questionable goals during the past few games. I think at least one stinker a game. He needs a night off, truly!!

I predict Hemsky will break out soon. He's due for a big game and I just feel he's getting close again. He has been flying all over the ice the past few games and with newbie O'Sullivan on his line finally, the first line will break out tonight!!

GO OILERS!

Downfall

2009-03-17T11:03:00.001-06:00

This basically sums it ALL up!

Deadline Madness

2009-03-03T11:38:00.003-07:00

Deadline madness begins now with 24 hours of craziness!! But what do our beloved Oilers do in the next 24 hours??

Who is traded? Cole is my bet and I'd be shocked if he was not gone. Why? He's an unrestricted at the end of the year, he is not resigning here and has been a bust. Sure he's played somewhat better over the past month but it's not enough. I say get rid of him for someone who can win faceoffs, kill penalties or a shut-down defenseman. He won't get you that winger for Hemsky.

Several big name players were put on waivers today including one Miroslav Satan, a former Oiler from the mid-1990s. He has 17 goals for the Pens so he might be a nice temporary fix for our top line. He's unrestricted after this year and his salary is $3.5 million so that might be about a $1.3 million hit for the Oilers. Doable especially if they unload Cole (or even not). According to nhlnumbers.com, Oilers have $2.1 million in cap space. Soooooo, maybe this works or is at least an option if you can't get anything else going?

I don't see the Oilers making a big splash at the deadline. They're not mortgaging the future in order to make the playoffs. If they can get a couple small deals, they're probably okay. They need some help in killing penalties. They're getting slaughtered out there. Satan would probably help the powerplay too, and they need help with that too!!

Who else might be leaving in smaller deals? Pouliot or Nilsson are two players that come to mind, but I'm not sure if they're going to cut them loose after all the time they're put into them. But it's possible.

A busy 24 hours are coming up. But how busy?

Big game for the Oilers tonight as they are in Nashville, trying to distance themselves from the pack which includes the Preds, who are only one point behind. This is a hard game to judge since the Preds are coming off an 8-0 victory over Detroit. They have also only won once in the last 11 games against the Preds so another mountain to climb!

Good news for captain Ethan Moreau as he won't require surgery to repair the damage to his eye. Even better news, Moreau is out for at least a week so we can be free of his awesome penalties for at least a few games. Glad you're okay dude, but also extremely elated that you are out of the lineup for a few games.

GO OILERS!!

Update: Apparently, the Oilers are not interesting in Miroslav. That's too bad; at the very least, his name would fit in nicely with this team and their Ladislav and Lubomir!!!

Fernando - The Return

2009-02-26T13:54:00.003-07:00

Oilers welcome Columbus to Rexall tonight and Fernando Pisani makes his return to the ice after sitting out for 14 weeks with a broken ankle. Pisani will be playing with Cogliano and Moreau on the third line.

Will he be effective after such a long lay-off? I'm sure they'll manage his ice-time carefully tonight and he won't play big minutes. It would be nice to see a strong return and someone who can help with the power kill which still remains near the bottom at 28th spot (did I see that right on nhl.com? Detroit is 27th on the PK? Gives me hope if that's correct).

The Oilers need some scoring, even strength AND powerplay (20th is not good enough) to get the team into the playoffs. A big game tonight (they are all big from now on) as a win jumps them over Columbus into possibly 6th place.

Make this easy boys.....WIN!!

Battle of Alberta

2009-02-21T13:51:00.005-07:00

This picture basically expresses my sentiments clearly, non?

One thing needs to be said: STOP TAKING PENALTIES MOREAU!! You are a moron!!!! Try being the leader of this team, instead of putting them a man down several times a game. I'm going to suggest something radical....be the captain!! Shocking eh?

Oilers have won 2 of the 3 games so far with the Flamers so far, let's make it 3 of 4.

Down one d-man

2009-02-10T10:31:00.005-07:00

When Lubo came off the ice, we all knew it was bad. It has been confirmed that Visnovsky needs surgery on his injured shoulder and is done for the season. That is really too bad. He was having a very nice season. The only good news is that we have three other offensive and puck-moving defensemen on the team. I don't think the Oilers can move any of them now. If Lubo was not hurt, I think one of them was going to be moved for either a left winger or a center.

Montreal is in town tomorrow night and they are floundering right now, losing 8 of 10. They held a players-only meeting following their loss to Calgary last night (6-2) so the Oilers need to show up in the first period and play the whole 60 minutes. They are tied for 8th place after going 2-4-1 since the All-Star break. Miraculously they are still in the hunt but they need to be better.

I've just renewed my season ticket for next year and signed up for playoff tickets. Now, get to the promised land boys!!!! Edmonton needs playoff hockey....

UPDATE: Jagr as an Oiler?? Rumor is out there that he is close to signing a deal. His stats for far for Omsk is 51 points in 48 games (25 goals, 26 assists). Not bad. Have we finally found someone to play with Hemsky? Don't tease us Oilers, don't tease us!!!

UPDATE: Yeah not happening this year at least. Jagr remains in Russia.

Oilers vs Bluejackets

2009-01-20T11:17:00.006-07:00

The Bluejackets are in town tonight in a big game before the all-star break. The Oilers are tied for the 8th playoff spot with Minnesota but a win tonight could vault them into a tie for 5th with Anaheim and Vancouver. Yes, the west (as usual) is that frickin' tight so this is such a big game. A loss does not mean they are out of it but we'd sure like to see them make things a bit easier on themselves. Like everyone else, I'm tired of the Oilers taking the bumpier road. Get on the paved road boys!!!!

Hemsky returned on Sunday in the game against Phoenix. First, what a great night for Glenn Anderson and his sweater retirement ceremony. It took way too long for that man to get into the Hall of Fame. I believe many of the Oilers were sporting cheesy 'staches in honor of him. They were some of the ugliest 'staches in the history of the 'stache! It was awesome!

Back to Hemsky, he made his return on Sunday and damn, what a game from our star player. He scored 2 goals, one was another highlight reel goal. Moreau got a hat trick (no, that is not an error)....first of his career. But it was Hemsky who was the game-breaker. Everytime he was on the ice, he made something happen. He rejuvenated his linemates, and Penner had one of his best games in weeks, maybe months. He was tough on the boards, fighting for the puck and actually skating to keep up to the play. Wow, I wish he'd play like that every game.

This team is all about Hemsky. So watch out for Torres who returns to Edmonton for the first time tonight. We don't want to see a high hit that takes Hemmer out for another 10 game spell. He's too important!

Sabourin has been waived and will probably end up in the AHL.

Oilers vs Capitals

2009-01-13T09:21:00.005-07:00

Edmonton travels to Washington to play the Caps tonight. Edmonton just finished a home stretch where they went 3-2. They didn't play great but got a few wins out of it. They now head into a town where they have not win since 1997. The only good news is that Hemsky is traveling and skating with the team. That is good news and maybe this means he could play on the road trip. That 'mild' concussion has kept Hemmer out since Dec 28th. The team has not looked good during that period so his return will be very welcome!

With such a mediocre stretch of hockey, the Oilers are only TWO points out of the 8th playoff spot. The Oilers play two teams they are either tied with or ahead of them in the standings on their three game road trip. After Washington, they head to Minnesota and Colorado. While we expect the Oilers to be in tough for a win against the Caps, they have a good chance against the Wild and Avs. These are two games they MUST win.

It'll be a tough game tonight, especially since they haven't won there in over a decade. Plus, they have the Ovechkin factor. If I were to ever like anyone else (I'm an Oiler-only fan), this is the guy I would go for. He's physical, gritty and wow he's got skill. But is anyone else getting annoyed with his goal celebrations yet? Celebrate great goals, yes. Celebrate game-tying or winning goals, yes. But going crazy for the 5th goal in a 5-1 win is ridiculous and not even borderline disrespectful. He's being an ass. Stop. You're getting into Crosby territory (with his fake-dying). If you do that again, I want Souray to one-punch you unconscious!

Since the Oilers haven't won in Washington since '97, let's go out on a limb and say they win. They almost got the W last year. Remember when it went into a shootout. I can't remember how long it went, but it was something like 10 players each?? Crazy.

GOILERS!

Update: Horcoff is fighting the flu and will be a game-time decision!

The sharks are circling....

2009-01-09T10:12:00.000-07:00

Let us remember the good old days!

A Christmas Miracle?

2008-12-22T10:59:00.002-07:00

Okay, the Oilers host Phoenix tonight and this should be an easy victory but nothing has come easy this year.

After the loss to the Ducks in the shootout on Friday, MacT threw another player under the bus, Robert Nilsson, and then drove over him again and again. Nilsson got a chance to play on the top line but was benched midway throught he second period since he was a "non-competor" according to the coach.

I must disagree with the coach on this one. Sure, Nilsson floats at times but this is bullshit. He called out a player that has been pulling a decent amount of his weight this year, and certainly when compared to others (hello Gagner). Sure, we'd prefer to see more than 10 points but I think that low point total is in direct correlation to the many different line combinations we've seen this year. We all know MacT has his favorites and Nilsson has NEVER been one of them. Gagner has received a FREE pass all season long while Penner and Nilsson get thrown under the pass, called out publicly and bashed. I don't mind players getting called out but do it fairly. Gagner has not been benched nor scratched once this year. I'm tired of his non-competing too so let's call him out too. Why not? Oh yes, he's young and we're scared to damage him. Bullshit. If Nilsson is benched, Gagner should follow suit. He's been a dead-weight all year long (he seemed to wake up last game playing with Cole).

I personally like Nilsson and think he has a lot of talent. Sure, he could be playing with more passion BUT that's the job of the coach to get that out of him. According to MacT, he's talked with Nilsson many times but I get the sense that Nilsson either had no idea or it wasn't pressed upon him heavily enough. It's too bad he's probably sitting out tonight. I hate seeing players getting fucked over while others get a free pass. Bash them all Craig, or don't bash any!!!!!

Anyways, Oilers need to come out strong tonight and win. I don't want to go out again in -30 celcius weather to see them lose. I'm tired of it. Maybe Santa shows up and gives them the gift of victory? I'm willing to go with it.

2008-12-16T09:56:00.004-07:00

The Oilers are hosting the Chicago Blackhawks tonight and I'm curious which team will show up. The one who was physical and competed quite well against Vancouver or the other team who forgets to forecheck, gets few shots on net, can't kill a penalty and has no passion (we've seen that team much too often).

The Oilers have won 4 of their last 5 games so that is a positive start. But let's face it, Roli and Hemsky have been carrying this team. I'd like to see more contribution from some other players. Visnovsky and Souray have been excellent thus far this season, and I think both are getting better. I love the way Lubo carries the puck and I'd like to see the coaching staff encourage him to carry the puck into the offensive zone more often. He is so smooth and exciting.

So I think the Oilers might win tonight as long as Hemsky and Roli carry the ship.

Update: Garon gets the start tonight. Good, I hope they get him back in there on a regular rotation. You need to find out if this is your goalie of the future. It's nice that Roloson is playing well, but we all know this is his last year in Edmonton and will be gone by the trade deadline. Give Garon a real chance if possible....let's find out what he can do!

All you get is 4 games!

2008-12-15T16:45:00.003-07:00

Yes, Rob Schremp has been sent back to the AHL after playing four games (scratched in one game). He played quite well in three of the four games, had three assists and aside from the San Jose game where he didn't play well (then again, that was a long list), he was improving. Of course, until MacT nailed his ass to the bench against Florida late in the game. Gagner didn't even spend a whole game on the fourth line and was moved up when Rob was benched.

I think this was what we expected from the Oilers: give him an adequate chance until Gagner was back from his concussion. But it didn't take long for Gagner to get back on his line....let's be honest, he didn't play his way back up as I thought he should have. I was hoping for some tough love for Gagner. He's been given lots of chances so far this season and he is so lost out there. He is dead weight right now. Sure he's "trying" or it'll come.

One more thing: why is Reddox still up and Schremp down? Oh yes, we need "energy" fourth liners. Of course. *bullshit* It's funny that I'm depending him since I was never a big fan due to all the hype but I hate to see players screwed over. He has earned a spot in the line-up.

Anyways, I think Schremp played well that he'll get another call-up down the road this season. This was a very good stepping stone and maybe this facilitates a trade??

I'm off for an Oilers focus group (from a group of season ticket holders). I have no idea what we're discussing but I'm excited. I love to give my opinion!!

Schremp - 3 games, 3 points, +2

2008-12-08T15:03:00.005-07:00

So Schremp finally got a call-up last week from the Oilers. He has so far played in three games and has 3 points including a wicked pass to Pouliot in his first game against Dallas. While he didn't play well against San Jose (that is a long list and not exclusive to Rob), his other two games were fantastic. He looked nervous in the first period against Dallas but got his footing and had 2 assists. It's nice to see the Oilers give him a legitimate chance, not shoving him on the fourth line and playing five minutes. He actually has NHL linemates and getting second line minutes (13-14 mins). His call-up time depends on the injuries to Nilsson and Gagner but I think most Oiler fans have liked what they've seen so far. We want to see more and if this can be sustained.

The Oilers are riding a three game winning streak, their first since starting the season 4-0. Yes it's been a long time coming but it hasn't been the best hockey. They blew a 3-0 lead against LA but won in the shootout. They were outshot dramatically against San Jose (43-17) but Roloson stole the game for them and they won in overtime. So now the Oilers have several days off before starting a stretch of 12 home games in 15 so this is the time to gain some momentum. If they can't, talk of MacT's demise will surface again and should be taken very seriously. If they aren't, this team is not in it to win and I find that disgusting. I pay big bucks for my season tickets and two losing seasons is enough. If MacT is not the man, find one who is. Enough already!

This is the stretch they've been telling fans to be patient for....here it is! 12 of 15 games at home so bring it!! Many of the games are against teams they should be able to beat: 3 games against the Luongo-less Canucks, Panthers, Coyotes, Preds, Isles, Blues, etc. They should win at least 10 of the games easily but nothing has come easy for this team this season. Prepare for anything folks.

One more thing: Sean Avery. I'm not sure how everyone is feeling about this but I'm thinking he got a raw deal. Anyone else? Yes, what he said was stupid, inappropriate, disgusting, etc. But seriously, he gets 6 games for comments off the ice while certain players (ahem Celine) get nothing for blatant head shots. And of course Dallas has been throwing Avery under the bus, blaming him for their season woes and he's the perfect scapegoat, isn't he? The whole team, even the coach, are sticking him with their problems. Well, I don't think Avery plays goal does he? He's not your sniper? You have more problems and can't blame it all on Avery. Now Dallas needs to decide what to do. I think they should let him play. He's a decent hockey player, so suck it up Dallas. Otherwise, whatever. I hate seeing even assholes like Avery getting a raw deal. He's an ass, no doubt about that, but he's gotten screwed over in this situation.

Oilers play Florida on Thursday. This is a game they should win.

Vote of Confidence or Not?

2008-11-28T12:54:00.003-07:00

After another dismal showing by the Oilers against the LA Kings which was their 5 loss in 6 games, it appears the wagons are circling for the Silver Fox or are they?

Yesterday, Spector reported that

"A high ranking source within the organization said Thursday that the Oilers will make a trade to try to shake up their lineup before firing their head coach..."

A veteran Oilers player, who requested anonymity added: "Maybe a trade, then the coach. After this long, a change might be good."

So if you believe this, a trade is coming in hopes of shaking up the team. If that doesn't work, the coach is out. There has been talk about who this unnamed player is. I have no idea but I like the idea that someone is finally speaking out. The media has been very easy with MacT this year. I haven't heard anyone call him out for some of his weird moves and why I think he should be canned and soon (Pisani to center, Cole to the wrong wing, Garon sitting, Smid as a forward, bringing up non-offensive players from the AHL, etc). It's nice to see something happening.

Although, MacT did get a vote of confidence today from Tambellini. He has confidence the team will turn it around. Although I did think it wasn't a ringing endorsement of MacT but he did put it out there he has confidence in the team. My favorite part was that the team practiced really hard leading up to their disastrous loss to the LA Kings. I like hearing how our team only plays hard when it doesn't count. Great stuff!!

Anyways, a trade is up first (if you believe the source). Who goes? Who do they get? Hell, who can they get at this point?

I think Roloson is the tradebait or he should be. Maybe Garon will get back in net (check this other story out about one of the reasons he could be sitting....damn interesting if they are indeed not letting him use his goalie coach from last year when he played awesome)!!!

Oilers are in St. Louis tomorrow at noon then Dallas on Sunday. Yes, another back-to-back game on the road. Will the team wake from their coma in time??

A desperate move?

2008-11-20T11:01:00.002-07:00

Guess who will be playing on the wing tonight against Detroit? Ladislav Smid. Yes he is a defenseman. Yes this is weird. Yes this might be desperation. MacT mentioned this a few days ago that Smid might be a good option up front since he was a big body. Yes, that might be true but putting in someone who isn't a forward against the best team in the league is very dangerous. This can't be a good idea.

In any case, he'll be playing with Pouliot and Brodziak while Stortini and Boulerice get some time in the pressbox while MacT keeps the other three lines in tact from the surprisingly easy win against Columbus 7-2.

I'm not sure what to expect, this team is all over the place. Their powerplay was killer against Columbus, due to better puck movement. As in my previous blog, I mentioned that passing the puck quickly will give Souray a better chance to get his shot away instead of standing stationary. It worked.

I think this game will be closer than the previous game versus Detroit with a chance to win for the Oilers.

Are the credits rolling yet?

2008-11-18T10:40:00.006-07:00

I think this photo says it all. Is he responding to the game last night or questions about his future in Edmonton?

Another disaster loss for the Oilers last night where Conklin earns a shutout. One word: embarrassing. Where was this prowess when we needed it Conks?? And Pisani is out 6-8 weeks with a broken ankle. That sums up their play last night: broken! They had their chances (again) but couldn't convert. How often do you get a 2-1 on the powerkill and not hit the net? All the time if you are the Oilers. If you're the Oilers, you get another 2-1 seconds later and get off a weak shot. Roli played well, made 37 saves but needs some help. I'm thinking we should let him carry the puck and see how he does on the powerplay.

Souray played his worst game last night. He took a dumb penalty when already down a man and just can't adapt on the powerplay. When you are stationary, the shot from the point is easy to block (as we saw last night) and you end up losing control of the puck. When they moved the puck from point to point, with crisp passes, the shot from the point gets through and a decent chance is had.

So are the wagons circling? Is the writing on the all? Are the final credits rolling? I don't think MacT's days are numbered today, but if this continues for another week, it can't be far off. You don't want to wait too long. They're still within striking distance. I think he is an intelligent coach and he has done some nice things for the Oilers. Until this year, the team was usually solid defensively and had a killer powerkill. He developed the fringe players into solid NHL'ers.

But if you look at his record closely, it really isn't outstanding after 7 years in Edmonton. 4 years the team missed the playoffs, they lost in the first round twice and of course the 2006 year run to the finals. That run to the finals saved his job and gave him some breathing room for the past two seasons. It can't all be placed on his head: injuries and holes in the team are part of the problem for the past two years. However, the team is healthy this year and the cast of characters is excellent and probably one of the better Oilers teams since the early 1990s (or has the potential to be).

While people might whine about the job Lowe has done in the past two years (I don't agree with that assessment completely but that's another post), Lowe stepped up to the plate this summer, hit a grand slam and gave his coach the best team he's ever had. It's now up to the coach to put the pieces together and quit trying to put a square peg in a round hole (Penner is not a third line defensive player, Moreau is not a powerplay option nor a first liner, Gagner should be put back to the wing and reunited with his kid line, and no more PK, fix the three-headed goalie monster and give Garon a start).

The Oilers are in Columbus (another back-to-back game, thanks NHL scheduling) and we'll see what the team and coach is made of tonight. Is anyone hopeful?

Losers since 1967!

2008-11-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

Yeah you are. Losers. All day and everyday!

Okay, the game last night was a big bag of suck. And that is putting it mildly. The Oilers had a great first period, but coupled with shit refereeing and just plain bad play, they got their asses kicked in the remaining two periods.

I missed most of October's games while I was in Germany but since I've been back, I have not been impressed with this Oilers' team at all. This team has so many issues and I'm not sure if they can fix it all this season. So instead of fighting for the division and conference lead, this team at the moment will resort to tradition and fighting for the 8th playoff spot.

Okay, what are the good parts of this team? One word: Hemsky. He has been unbelievable during the past couple weeks and in every game, he has been dangerous. Sure he'll give up a bit defensively but that's nothing compared to the good he does when he is on the ice. And people, that goal was not completely his fault last night. Sure he turned over the puck at the blueline, leading to a 2-1 and a goal. But he was out-manned 2-1 on the boards, and where was the other defenseman and how about the goalie? He sure wasn't great or even good last night.

Another good on this team is Souray. All this talk about his defensive failings might have been blown out of proportion because all I see is a very solid defenseman. I really like his game. He's been so calm when under pressure.

As for the rest of the defense, it is a mixed bag. Smid was having a nice stretch when concussion-city hit. That's too bad since he had turned a corner. Gilbert is playing okay, but definitely not as well as last year. Is this contract stress?? I'm not sure what to say about Visnovsky. His stats look okay but something is missing in his game and I'm not sure what it is (check out shooting percentages....interesting to see why some of our players do not have many points and are struggling, they aren't converting: Gilbert, Gagner and Pouliot are good examples). Staios has not been bad but Strudwick is a weird case. He is almost holding his own considering he skates like I did when I was five. It is ugly folks. He can barely skate backwards.

The bad on this team is too numerous to list so let's pick out the most obvious:

-Horcoff: he's been invisible. He is dead weight at this point. Even his normally trusty defensive game has disappeared. He was dead when playing with Hemsky and is dead without him. I'm sure he'll turn it around but we're a fifth of the way through the season so he'd better pick it up soon.

-Pisani and Penner: Pisani is having problems defensively as well. Penner is not clicking with Cogliano. Cogs has speed and skill, and just does not fit with Penner. I won't get into this right now, but maybe this is coaching?? But with Penner, he does not skate. He's two steps away from the puck, but he won't skate to it. He tries to reach it with his stick instead of taking that step. Is it conditioning?

-Goalies: Way too many clunkers. Sure, they could use some defensive help but one of them needs to step up and take the starting position. JDD had a couple good games followed by the clunker last night. I think Garon starts on Saturday, or he should. He hasn't played since Nov 6th so it's time to get him back in there.

-Cole: I don't like this guy at all. I'm not sure why everyone was getting off on him when he was acquired. This might be another situation where he doesn't fit in with anyone (hello Penner).

Anyways, how much does coaching play into this? I think a lot. First up: line combinations. I missed the first month of the season so I'm going by the last two and a half weeks but damn, I've never seen the blender used so much. Hemsky has found his grove while everyone else is struggling. No combination seems to be getting much traction. Another problem is weird coaching decisions: Moreau on the powerplay (with 3 mins left in the game), reluctance to adapt and try new things, too much blender.....the list goes on.

How about the disastrous power kill? It's running at 74% and is 28th in the league (the top 10 teams are over 83%). The Leaves went 3 for 3 last night. Yet MacT stays with the same line combinations for the PK (and the PP but more about that later). They're getting killed out there. The forwards are weak on the boards and lose every battle. The d-men are the same. Souray seems to be the best option. He does seem to battle better than the rest. And Staios, how about changing things up and stop ringing it around the boards? Is it working for you yet? No no no!

Oh the powerplay is not the problem it was last year but 18% is not great considering the top teams are over 25%. Last night was the perfect example as to why the PP sucks. They run the same play night-in and night-out. Souray is on the first unit, and they pass it until they get it to him. He shoots, and is either blocked or misses the net. It's not working people and the opposition knows what you're doing. Last night, they had Souray on the second unit once and the first unit got some nice chances. But guess what? Souray got back on the first unit on the very next PP. Mix it up MacT. Give the puck to Hemsky and let him go with it until he scores. Seriously, he is your only option at this point.

I haven't said anything about Gagner but he did score his first goal last night. Easy one, but maybe this opens the flood gates? I still think the Kid Line should be put back together. Cogs needs better linemates and so does Nilsson. These two kids are getting screwed.

Colorado is up tomorrow night. Reddox has been recalled. Does he play? What about Boulerice? He probably takes Stortini's place (who is lost without Glencross. Any spark he had last year is gone. You're down 5-2 with 6 minutes to go last night, and when you hit the ice, you don't hit anyone? Dude, juice up if you need to but damn, hit someone).

I think the Oilers rebound tomorrow night. They couldn't play any worse, right? And something needs to happen to this team. Maybe the road woes are the problem? Having 12 of your first 15 games on the road is tough and we should cut them some slack. They are in 8th spot, and only 2 points behind the division lead and 5 teams. But this team could end up in serious problems if they can't get it together, especially the PK.

Season Preview from Deutschland

2008-10-08T08:04:00.003-06:00

Greetings my fellow Oilers' fans, I'm in Germany right so my post will be brief. I won't be home until after the start of the new season, will be missing quite a few games, so I'll be updating from Germany.

Souray is our new alternate captain, which I like. Okay, I just like all things related to Souray and people, get off his back. He hasn't pulled a Moreau yet so back off. If he misses two seasons, then you can get on him. I liked what I saw in the pre-season, Souray looked really good so I'm expecting good things for him this season.

It looks like neither Shremp nor Brule will make this team since they claimed some unknown tough guy from Florida. I've never heard of this guy so I'm not sure what to make of it. I think Shremp has finally earned his chance and he'll play quite a few games this year. Someone will get injured and he gets the first call, as long as he plays well in the AHL.

Hemmer is going to light it up with Cole and Horcoff. This line is going to fly along with the Kid Line, if MacT leaves them alone. It should be great years for both, and there will not be the sophmore jinx.

There are goalie issues. We have three of 'em kicking around. Garon is our number one and I think he continues his play from last year (sorry Garon haters, he is not sucking this year). Roli will get traded by February probably.....but he might end up playout out the year. I think the Oilers will be fighting for the division lead and Roli may stick with the team if that is the case.

So yes, Oilers will be fighting for the division lead with Minnesota, Calgary finishes third, and possibly out of the the playoffs, depending on the rest of the West. Oilers definitely make the playoffs, win at least one round and set themselves up for a great couple of years!!!

Book it!

RIP Reggie

2008-09-27T13:40:00.002-06:00

Paul Newman is known to hockey fans from Slapshot. I was always shocked that a major movie star would actually be in a hockey movie. I never understood why he did it but I'm sure glad he did. While most people think of the Hanson brothers, Paul Newman rocks this movie!!!!

If you haven't seen his other filmes, I strongly suggest checking out Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.....Newman killed in that film. I always think of that role when Newman comes to mind!

RIP Paul Newman!

And let there be hockey!

2008-09-21T14:44:00.003-06:00

The Oilers training camp started on Friday with medicals and yesterday with scrimmages. The Joey Moss Cup is being played right now with team Blue leading the Whites (Penner and Nilsson for Blue and Cole for White). This is a very exciting time for us Oiler fans. We've been without hockey for ~171 days. That is a loooong time! I guarantee we won't have that much time between hockey next year. This team makes the playoffs: no doubt about it!

I think this will be a breakout year for the team, and they'll fight for the division title with a very good chance of winning it. The other teams in the division did not improve their teams over the summer, and you could even say some of them are worse off this year. Calgary is one team that comes to mind: trading Tanguay and signing Bertuzzi were the two big moves. Neither one improves the team and the team could possibly miss the playoffs if Kipper plays like he did last year. One can only hope.......

Back to our Oilers: with new players Visnovsky, Cole, Brule, Potulny coming to town and with some other prospects (Schremp)....the team has some nice depth. This should be Hemsky's breakout year. Looks like Cole will be tried out on his wing but knowing MacT and his blender, don't get used to seeing that as things will change and change. And change.....

The first pre-season game is tomorrow and I shall be sitting in my season seat ready to cheer loud for my Oil. 171 days between hockey games.......bring on the Oil.

GOILERS!

Joining the Boys on the Bus.....

2008-08-13T11:14:00.005-06:00

Glenn Anderson, who was finally selected to the Hockey Hall of Fame this year, will be getting his night at Rexall Place! Glenn will join fellow Oilers in the rafters on January 18th! Yes I'm excited. This will be my fourth retirement ceremony: Fuhr, Coffey, Messier and now Anderson.

Even though Messier and Fuhr were (and are) my favorite players, Anderson was the most exciting player to watch and my playoff-favorite. He was fearless; driving and crashing the net with abandon.

I was slightly worried this ceremony night would take place in October, when I was in Germany. But whew, it's not until January when the Coyotes (and Gretzky) are in town. It'll be a special night for sure. Maybe the boys will actually win a ceremony night?

In any case, the excitement for the upcoming season, which I thought couldn't get any higher, is making it hard to concentrate at work. I think all of Edmonton has such high expectations for this team and they are not unfounded. This team is young, exciting and will only get better. Even though I'll miss the first month of the season since I'll be in Europe, I can't wait for the season to start. I'll get to catch the pre-season games before I take off and the good news is that I'll only miss 3 games while I'm gone. I was nervous I'd be missing out on 7 or 8 games but three cheers for the road trip!!!

GOILERS!

New Hockey Operations Structure

2008-07-31T11:50:00.004-06:00

I just got an email update from the Oilers with that tag line and it s on TSN's website now.

Kevin Lowe is now the President of the Edmonton Oilers. Gone is Laforge (I guess) since there is no mention of him in the announcement.

VP Kevin Prendergast is now the Assistant Manager.

We have a new GM folks: Steve Tambellini is now the man. He's been in the Canucks organization for years according to the email. I really don't know anything about him (didn't he do some work with Team Canada?).

I'm not sure what to think of this move. I really liked Lowe's moves this summer. He really redeemed himself after the past couple years of questionably deals. So just when I was enjoying his skillful moves this summer, he gets bumped upstairs and we have a new GM in town.

July 1 - Canada Day and Le Free Agent Frenzy

2008-07-01T09:32:00.008-06:00

Happy Canada Day and happy free agent frenzy day as well. There has been a trade already involving our Oilers, even before the frenzy has begun.

Raffi Torres has been traded to Columbus for Gilbert Brule. This looks like a salary dump or they're clearing the decks for some free agent signings. According to Dan Barnes at the Journal, the Oilers plan to get into the Hossa sweepstakes big time and offer at least 9 million dollars a year. I'm torn on this since I truly believe Hossa is the type of player our Ales Hemsky needs to play with. But 9 million? I don't like that at all.

But with the trades of Stoll, Torres, Greene and of course Pitkanen will be gone soon, there might be cap room for a move like that. The bigger issue is does Hossa even want to come here? Even during Visnovsky's conference call yesterday, he mentioned the cold and winter of Edmonton. Maybe we should tell everyone that we're in a major heat wave right now?

Anyways, let the frenzy begin!!!

Update: Pitkanen is off to Carolina for winger Erik Cole (4 million cap hit who has one year left on his deal. I hope there is an extension coming too. One year of Cole against several of Pitkanen is NOT a good deal).

Welcome Lubomir...

2008-06-29T22:09:00.003-06:00

I was just talking about the Oilers today and the possible trades they would make on Canada Day! Well they beat me to it but I thought Stoll and Greene would be gone.

And poof, they are outta here.

In return, the Oilers get Lubomir Visnovsky from the LA Kings. According to TSN, the Oilers also will be taking on his five-year, US$28-million contract extension he signed in July 2007.

I originally thought he was a Czech but nope, he's Slovakian. Cool, we have some Czechs and a Slovak now....Czechoslovakia baby!!!

I think this means Pitkanen is going to be gone on Canada Day. I can't see them signing him for the 5 million he wants if they just got Visnovsky. Pitkanen can snag the Oilers a top 6 forward. So that should be good news!!!

I'm thrilled that Greene is gone. Finally, I've been championing his departure for several years now. All I have to say: dreams do come true.

I feel bad for Stoll. I like him as a player, well not last year. He was a piece of crap. I thought he might bounce back this year, but that was a big maybe. He needed a change of scenery and plus, he's closer to his cougar-girlfriend Rachel Hunter. So it all works out for the best!

Welcome to Edmonton Lubomir Visnovsky!

Is it finally his time? (YES IT IS)!

2008-06-17T09:23:00.007-06:00

Is it finally time for Glenn Anderson to enter the Hockey Hall of Fame? It damn well better be.....he's been eligible since 1999. 9 years of waiting is too long especially when he's been passed over for lesser players. Yes lesser players were chosen over Anderson. They include Neely, Lafontaine, Francis, MacInnis, Duff, Murphy, Gillies, Federko, Langway, Hawerchuk, Gartner, and the list goes on. All these players have made the Hall in years that Anderson was eligible. Anderson's numbers were superior to all of them, and more importantly, his pressense in the playoffs was off the charts.

Why he is not in the Hall? There are many reasons listed as a possiblity: he benefitted from a skilled Oilers team, he wasn't friendly with the media, he's a deadbeat dad, etc. I'm still confused why any of these reasons would ever be brought up. You don't need to be a good father to get into the Hall. It's based on your hockey career (or should be entirely) but people keep bringing up all these factors. His numbers alone should have gotten him into the Hall.

I can't see him being denied another year. His numbers along with his Stanley and Canada Cups should be enough to get him in. Check the list of eligible players and their stats. Anderson should get over the hump due to his Cups.

My favorite memories of Glenn was when he was flying down the ice, cutting into the middle, splitting the defense, crashing the net and shooting the puck into the net. I grew up in Manitoba where we didn't hear the rumours and information about his personal life. All I knew growing up was that he was a helleva hockey player. That is how he should be judged today.

Announcement will come at 3:30 (et) and his eight year wait should be over.

UPDATE: Welcome to the Hall of Fame Glenn Anderson!

ABOUT F'IN TIME!

CTV: A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing

2008-06-09T22:18:00.009-06:00

Just in, TSN/CTV has 'saved' the Hockey Theme Song. First, I didn't know the song needed saving. Second, this accounts for flat out thievery. The song didn't need to be saved. There was ongoing negotiations (or extortion) with the jingle writer Claman and CBC for the use of the song which has been in rotation for 40 years at the CBC. So with the extortion not going according to plan, Claman turns to CTV/TSN and extorts them.

CTV, big bad billionaire company, steals this song from public broadcaster CBC. Yes it's as bad as it sounds. I know CTV/TSN wants to pretend this was done to ensure the survival of the song but there wasn't much doubt that a deal would have occurred with the CBC. They would never let the song die but they sneak in, do a back-door deal and poof, it's been stolen.

According to CBC and how there was double-dealing going on:

We offered arbitration, mediation — we offered to meet their price. On Friday, when it came right down to it, we never got a response from them on our latest offer and find out, in the meantime, they appeared to be negotiating with CTV.....If that is the price CTV wants to pay, it won't be the first time nor will it be the last time, probably, that they outbid us for something. They have a lot more profits than we do...

I've become more disillusioned and disappointed with TSN over the past couple years, particularly when they started broadcasting NHL games. They've become big, fat, loud and obnoxious. They're shit as broadcasters now who depend on gossip instead of storytelling. They spend more time shelling out the rumour-de-jour instead of actually commenting on real stories. Ten years ago when I moved out on my own and got cable for the first time, I was most excited to get TSN. A sports network that was dedicated to good sports broadcasting. It simply is not anymore. Maybe because I still believe NHL hockey belongs on CBC and they put on a better broadcast. TSN is filled with loud and idiotic broadcasters (Pierre Maguire anyone?) who prefer the sound of their own voice to sport. They are not The Sports Network, they are The Toronto Network....it's all about the Leaves even when they don't make the playoffs. They are THE first story on Sportscentre and are discussed at the exclusion of everyone else. The broadcasters make Don Cherry look unbiased.

After the story broke earlier today, there were quite a few comments on TSN's website under the story and the majority of them were NOT supportive of this move. Well I just checked and many of those negative comments are no longer there. Mmm interesting TSN.

TSN/CTV should be ashamed of this underhanded and sneaky ploy. I still prefer my sports from CBC and I was heartbroken when CTV/TSN won the 2010 Olympics. They do a shit job at the Olympics. A plague on your house CTV/TSN. This was not saving the song, it was theft from the big bad rich company over a public broadcaster.

So go ahead, buy a song synonomous with the CBC. It will not reduce CBC's hockey viewership, not their better sports broadcasts. You basically will give them free advertising since this song will be associated with CBC forever. You can't destroy history. I tune into CBC for the hockey, not a song.

2008 Stanley Cup Final - zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

2008-05-24T17:10:00.003-06:00

The playoffs of 2008 will go down as one of the most boring in recent years. I can't wait for it to be over. Don't worry folks, it will be over soon. This will not be a long series nor a good one. Sure, the NHL is loving having two "big" hockey markets in the final and happy that Canada has been shutout for the first time in three playoff years. They don't want any Canadian teams in the finals since they're still half-heartedly trying to woo the American market.

One question: why the hell did we have to wait 5 days before the finals started?? Last game of the third round was on Monday. The finals start Saturday. I still can't imagine what the reasoning behind this can possibly be. There is still a chance to have a Stanley Cup winner crowned in May (if the series goes only 4 games) but the NHL really didn't do themselves any favors by waiting so long. They could have hyped the finals big time; a guaranteed winner in May. How awesome would that have been?

Anyways, I am 9-5 thus far in the playoffs....

Detroit Red Wings vs Pittsburgh (Whiney Sid's) Penguins

Like I said before, this is going to be a very short and one-sided series. Everyone seems to be jumping on the Pens bandwagon and on their knees for Sid. It ain't happenin' folks. Wings will take it to the Penguins and this will be over quickly. Pens have no chance. They'll be lucky to win one game. Detroit will use their skill to overpower the young and mediocre defense of Pittsburgh all while shutting down the Pens quasi-big guns. This series is over before it starts. Pens got to the finals not by playing awesome but by playing teams who shot themselves in the foot again and again. Osgood has been very solid and he'll outplay Fleury easily. Wings in 5, falling short of winning the Cup in May.

It'll be over soon Oiler fans....it'll be draft time and free agency soon. Plus, voting for the Hall of Fame takes place very soon. Glenn Anderson will not be denied anymore and he'll finally get into the Hall this year. I can't see him being snubbed again. Lesser players have been chosen the past couple years ahead of him, won't happen again.

GOILERS!!!

Canada vs Russia

2008-05-18T08:50:00.005-06:00

Surprisingly, this is the first time that Canada and Russia will face off in the World Championship gold medal game in 50 years. Yes, not since 1958 has there been a Canada-Russia final at the worlds (psst, Canada won that game and it wasn't exactly the gold medal game. It was the last game of the round robin). This is quite surprising but Russia has really sucked and hasn't won the worlds since 1993. So they will be super motivated for today's final. So will Canada, as they try to become the first team since 1986 to win the big game at home. This is going to be a killer game.

Russia is our hockey nemesis. Sorry US, it's not you. So this is the final everyone wanted to see. Too bad it's starting in the morning instead of being shown prime-time. They didn't want to compete with the Stanley Cup playoffs but you could at least put the gold medal game at a later time. It's one game. It's not like they're going head-to-head with the Stanley Cup Finals. The idiots at the IIHL need to get their heads examined for this decision. All of Canada's games during the tournament were also played during the afternoon. I guess they don't realize many of us have jobs and can't watch it. Good thing the final is on Sunday.

Anyways, this final will probably be one of the best ones in recent years. I'm excited!

Prediction: CANADA WINS of course by a score of 5-3. 2 goals from Heatley, 1 from Nash, 1 from Spezza and an empty netter for Getzlaf.

UPDATE: Dirty cheatin' Russians win. They score in OT on a penalty (bullshit call). Oh and our goalie sucked ass. Cam Ward: YOU SUCK! Seriously, Canada was up 4-2 heading into the third and he lets in 2 shit goals. Oh and Jovanovski....you also are full of suck.

Round 3

2008-05-08T11:16:00.004-06:00

Is anyone still watching the playoffs? Yeah I agree. It's become quite boring. Round two killed my record. I started off at 7-1 and now I'm at 8-4. I blame the Rangers, Sharks and Habs for cocking it up. The Habs in particular dominated most of the games and yet lose. Some bad goal-tending and defensive play knocks them out when they really dominated the games. Too bad.
Round three predictions....even Fred and Barney are bored with this. But hey, we'll still watch (kinda) but these teams are bloody boring.

Pittsburgh Penguins vs Philadelphia Flyers

Neither team has impressed me that much. They're in the third round mostly due to the incompetence of their opponents. Maybe the Oilers will catch that kind of luck in next year's playoffs? That'd be sweet! Anyways, back to this year. Philly will finally give Sid the Whiney Kid and his Penguins a real challenge. Philly is tougher, grittier and more physical. Sid will need a pacifier when this series is done. Flyers in 6.

Detroit Red Wings vs Dallas Stars

Dallas is lucky to have made it this far. They barely got out of that San Jose series (even though being up 3-0 and were one shot from going to a 7th game) and let's face it, Detroit is rolling. They're going to roll over the Stars. Turco is only 2-10-5 against Detroit and has never won at the Joe. This will continue. Wings in 5.

There it is folks: Detroit vs Philadelphia in the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals. It hath been written!

2007-2008 Playoffs Round 2

2008-04-24T16:52:00.006-06:00

Round Two starts tonight....anyone still care? Not really but since I went 7-1 in round one, let's give round two a go for predictions. I still don't like any of these teams (Ottawa was my number two team) but I'm vaguely cheering for the Habs. Why? Maybe because everyone thought they'd finish 13th or maybe because I'm still a big fan of Kovalev. I do enjoy those Russians. They're very unlike their European counterparts; they play a gritty and skilled game. Me likes!!!

Montreal Canadiens vs Philadelphia Flyers

The Habs almost crapped themselves in round one, letting the Bruins trap their way to a game seven. Their powerplay was anemic and Price was shakey for two games. However, I think this team rebounds nicely in round two, their powerplay comes alive and Price continues his performance from game seven. Habs in 6.

Pittsburgh Penguins vs New York Rangers

Whiney Sid will get an early exit this year. The first round against Ottawa was a cake-walk so they're coming into this series with too much rest and not enough game action. Henrik will out-play wee Fleury who will have a huge meltdown. Unfortunately, Avery will get into the third round. Damn. Rangers in 5.

San Jose Sharks vs Dallas Stars

San Jose got a huge wake-up call in the first round so I expect them to continue their good play and will take it to the Stars big time. We would all like to thank Dallas for bouncing Anaheim (thank you very much) but you're time is over. Texas rules but not this time. Dallas the TV show rocked but not the hockey team. See y'all. Sharks in 5.

Detroit Red Wings vs Colorado Avalanche

Colorado played a good series against the Wild (my only loss in the first round) and could continue their good play. They'll need a healthy Forsberg to stand a chance (update: not playing tonight due to his groin) and they might get the leg up on the Wings. Wings, similar to the Pens, had an easy series in round one and they sleep-walked through it. I don't think I saw one hit. Avs could take advantage but I still think the Wings prevail. Wings in 6.

Classy

2008-04-19T11:08:00.002-06:00

"Everyone talks about how much class I don't have," Avery said after breaking a series-long silence. "Well it's the end of the series and men go to war against each other. I guess he forgot to shake my hand. I don't know if anyone saw that. Of course I was going to shake his hand."

Okay but you lost us at Fatso...

"Fatso there forgot to shake my hand"

Yes Avery, you still do not have class.

Signed for 6 (and 3)

2008-04-11T11:27:00.007-06:00

Tom Gilbert has just been signed to a contract for six years. According to TSN, it is worth $4 million a year for 6 years. I like the deal. It sounds quite reasonable especially considering he was the Oilers best defenseman all year and he was a rookie. Yes, impressive!

I would think Lowe goes after Pitkanen next (although I heard he had started negotiations with three people prior to today's signing. Probably is Stoll and Pitkanen left and maybe Glencross who is our big UFA). Of course, there is still possibly Reasoner.

Anyways, I'm happy. I adore Gilbert. He's a very good defenseman.

TSN had a stupid conclusion in the story:

Edmonton now has a decision to make on Joni Pitkanen. The 24-year-old can become a restricted free agent and the Gilbert signing creates some doubt about the Oilers bringing him back.

I certainly don't think the signing of Gilbert affects whether they sign Pitkanen or not. Joni's uncertainty is due to money; not the lack of salary cap room (due to the signing of Gilbert) but more to the unreasonable salary demands of Joni and how he is not worth anything over $4 at this point in time. I'd rather the Oil sign him to a one year deal; see him develop a bit more before they sign him. Gilbert developed big time for us. Joni needs more improvement to get the big contract. I do find him quite the dynamic player and he can shift into the offensive zone quickly. However, he sucks defensively. He needs more work on his game before he gets big money.

UPDATE: Nilsson is signed to a three-year, $5.5 million contract so a 1.8 cap hit. I like this deal too. Nilsson proved himself and he's got killer chemistry with Cogliano and Gagner. That line is going to kill for years to come! Good deals!!

More info on Gilbert's contract: Gilbert will earn $3.5 million next season with a $1.5 million signing bonus, $3.5 million in 2009-2010, $5.5 million with a $1.5 million signing bonus in 2010-2011, $5 million in 2011-2012, $3.5 million in 2012-2013, and $3 million in 2013-2014 for a salary cap average of $4 million a season.

Nilsson will earn $1.5 million next season and $2 million in each remaining season.

2007-2008 NHL Playoff Predictions - Round 1

2008-04-09T17:21:00.006-06:00

Playoffs starting tonight (Sens-Pens just dropped the puck) and yeah I'm watching. Although, my enthusiasm is slightly less since our Oilers aren't playing. But my belief in their future really makes a gal feel good.

I won a regular season pool with some friends by a very considerable margin. Let's try my luck at the playoffs now!!!

So here are some quick predictions. I'm doing this last minute, moments before the games start but hey, what the hell. Let's wing it!!! I went 13-2 last year (yeah I'm awesome) so let's try again!

Montreal Canadiens vs Boston Bruins

This is the one guarentee to NOT have an upset. Montreal won all 8 games during the year and very easily! Montreal will use their speed and powerplay to kick the Bruin's ass. This is probably your best bet for a sweep. Habs in 4.

New York Rangers vs New Jersey Devils

This is one of those series I don't give a damn about. Rangers are underachieving especially since overpaying for Gomez and Drury over the summer. I hope they lose big time. However, the trapping of today's game comes directly from those assholes in Jersey. I hope they lose too. Damn, one of these teams must win. This should be a goaltender's dual. Even though NY won 7 of 8 games during the season, 4 of them were in OT/SO. So this is a toss-up. I'm going against Marty Brodeur and say Rangers and Jagr show up! Rangers in 6.

Washington Capitals vs Philadelphia Flyers

Pittsburgh did not want to play Phily (as evidence by their tanking of the last regular season game). Washington will be in tough too. Sure Washington is on fire, coming back to make the playoffs. But let's face it....they've been playing mostly the shit teams of Florida, Atlanta, Tampa Bay, etc. That's an advantage. Sure Ovechkin is going to kill Philly but the Caps are a one player team. He can't win it all himself. Flyers in 6.

Ottawa Senators vs Pittsburgh Penguins

I'd love to call an upset here. Ottawa is the only other team in the NHL that I kinda cheer for. I hate Pittsburgh and that whiny pussy Crosby with a passion. I'm sick of his diving. You weren't shot Sid so stop 'fake dying' on us. Ottawa is floundering and without captain Alfredsson, this series is over before it starts for the Sens. They might make it tough for the wimpy Pens, but this is another solid bet. Penguins in 6.

Detroit Red Wings vs Nashville Predators

Nashville is getting their asses handed to them in this series. They might make it kinda competitive but Detroit is not choking this year. Nashville is no Edmonton. Wings have superstud in Zetterberg and Datsyuk. They'll get into goaltending issues in the subsequent rounds. This round it is not an option! Wings in 5.

Colorado Avalance vs Minnesota Wild

Boring series. The Wild will lull the Avs into a coma on their way to victory. Not even a healthy Forsberg can save this series. Maybe if this was 2000. But it is not, so Foppa and his Avs are out in the first round. Wild in 5.

San Jose Sharks vs Calgary Flames

Calgary actually thinks they're winning this series. There were even a couple dudes on Sportsnet predicting the Lames winning not only this series but the Stanley Cup. Come on dudes, be realistic. The Lames are lame. They are a team with no intensity, their goaltending has been off this year and you can't ride only Iginla. He'll score but no one else will. Sharks in 6.

Dallas Stars vs Anaheim Mighty Ducks

Ducks suck. Pronger is the devil. Stars use the Wild formula and comas all around. The end. Stars in 5.

Game 82

2008-04-03T19:18:00.005-06:00

Last game of the season for our Oilers. Out are Hemsky (knee) and Brodziak (finger) and in is Sanderson, who will at least be playing his last game as an Oiler and possibly his last game ever.

Oilers play the Canucks and they have a good chance to play spoiler tonight. Canuckleheads are one point behind Nashville so a loss to the Oilers could seriously hurt their playoff chances. And I'm on board for that!!!

Anyways, even though the Oilers are out of the playoffs, I couldn't be any prouder of them. They battled to get into the race and that was nice to see. They played Oilers hockey finally: grit, speed and skill. It was nice to see that again. It had been awhile.

Oilers win tonight with Roli stealing the show (is this his last game as an Oiler as well?)!!!

UPDATE: Wait one minute folks, there is something more to tonight's game (if my calculations are correct. Preds win tonight and need one more win to this scenario to work, I think). Calgary is minutes away from losing to the Wild, which would keep them at 92 pts. Let's say Vancouver wins tonight and then beat the Lames on Saturday (in regulation), they would be tied at 92 pts. BUT....Vancouver would have one more win. Who would you rather miss the playoffs??? Calgary or Vancouver? That's an easy answer for me.

I hope our boys play hard tonight but if they happen to lose, I sure won't be too sad about it. The chance to take the Lames out of the playoffs would be soooooooo awesome!!!!

GOILERS!!

Battle of Alberta Part Deux

2008-04-01T17:23:00.002-06:00

Battle of Alberta tonight again....Oilers must win to stay in the race for the playoffs! With only two games left, gotta win em both to stand a chance. The Oilers got a nice win over these very same Lames this past weekend.

Frankenstein (aka Pitkanen) is in tonight. Apparently, his groin is good to go! Alas, Garon is not playing tonight again. Roloson had a very solid game against Calgary so hopefully he can keep it up for another couple games.

I'm calling a HUGE win for the Oil.....they're going to kick the Lames and Celine all over that ice! 4-1 for the Oil.

Battle of Alberta

2008-03-29T16:40:00.004-06:00

I found a nice old Oilers goal just in time for tonight's big game! Gee Messier can score on the Lames in any fashion! Good Messier!!!

Oilers are 2 points behind Vancouver/Nashville for that last 8th spot but they both have games in hand on the Oilers. Last night's sloppy loss to the Avs really hurts but the Oil have to put it out of their minds, just go out and kick some Lames' ass. They were always a longshot to make the playoffs and it's still not beyond them. Just go out, play well and win. No pressure! :)

I'm assuming Roli is starting again. I think we can all agree he was Red Light Roli last night (thanks D) and embarrassing in the shootout. Not much the Oil can do but play him if Garon is still injured.

I'm calling a good Oilers win.....4-2 for the Oil. Hemmer, Cogs, Gags and Brodziak get the goals.

It finally makes sense.....

2008-03-22T00:19:00.003-06:00

Looks like Garon has been fighting an injury over the past week (lower body) and that is the reason Roloson has started the last four games instead. I'm not sure this is why Roli has started all four games but it must be the reason for the Vancouver start. Garon had played excellent against that team all year. Roli had three starts in a row so starting Roloson for a fourth time was inexplicable even though he had won three games in a row. However, his last start against Phoenix was not a great game so I think we all figured Garon was back in net. So I guess MacT isn't the complete idiot we all thought.....he was hampered by an injury to his goalie. It must not be serious since no other goalie has been called up and Garon was backing Roli up on each of those starts.

TSN also reported that Garon did not practice Friday. Does that mean he doesn't start Saturday's big game against Colorado? Only MacT knows I guess......

Big game tomorrow folks. They are 5 pts behind Colorado for the 8th spot so another chance to get within 3 pts of the playoffs. They choked on Thursday. The team looked very tight and cautious in the early parts of the game. Okay kids, go back to not worrying about it and just have fun. You're a fun team to watch and as long as you compete hard, that's all we ask.

I predict an Oilers victory......no matter who is in net. The team is going to rebound hard and play a tough game. Oil win 3-1 (goals from Gilbert, Hemsky and Penner).

Vancouver vs Edmonton: Game On!

2008-03-20T11:20:00.004-06:00

Big game tonight......Vancouver is in town tonight and with a victory in regulation tonight, the Oilers will be only 3 points behind them for a playoff spot. Winning 10 of 12 games, the Oilers are looking to stay hot. Roloson started three straight and won them all. But I think MacT has to go back to Garon tonight for a couple reasons: Roloson did not look sharp on Tuesday night against Phoenix and Garon stole a couple games against Vancouver earlier this season.

So our kids continue to keep this team rolling with Gagner, Cogliano, Gilbert, Nilsson, Brodziak and Glencross playing as seasoned veterans....there is an excellent chance tonight for a W.

A win tonight.....the bandwagon will fill up again! GO OILERS!!

Update: ROLI STARTS TONIGHT!! I'm shocked.....

Chris Pronger, aka the Double Standard

2008-03-15T15:22:00.004-06:00

The DEVIL gets away with a very similar act that resulted in Chris Simon getting a 30 games suspension. Prongs only gets 8 games but to make this whole situation even worse, it took a better video (bullshit, the first one was clear enough) and outrage from some media to even make the NHL look at this. So Colin took out his Wheel of Justice, spun it fairly (sarcasm) and the Devil only gets 8 games. Also, he'll make it back just in time for the playoffs.

The NHL has blown another suspension call and is anyone else getting sick of it?? Simon gets 30 games while Pronger gets only 8 for basically the same action? I'd even put Pronger's act worse since he stomped on Kesler's leg not the skate boot that Simon did.

The best part is the NHL's explanation, "In attempting to free himself, Pronger carelessly and recklessly brought his foot down." Sure.....there was no attempt to injure because Pronger is known for his gentlemanly behaviour in the league.

Anyways, let's move onto our Oilers. They are in Phoenix tonight to play the Coyotes and hoping to rebound from a disastrous game in Colorado. I'm guessing Roloson gets the nod tonight since Garon has played 16 straight games (even though he was pulled in the Avs game). The team needs to tighten up their defensive game. There is too many giveaways and sloppy play. The defense (not including Greene) has played quite well along with the kid line. Hemsky and Penner really need to pick up their game. Man, are they ever missing Horcoff?! Stoll or Reasoner are horrible on that line.

To end, I want to throw out a shout-out to one of my favorite former Oilers, Igor Ulanov. I adored that man for his physical play. Sure he wasn't the best defenseman but he had character and was one of the toughtest Oilers ever. A post over at Oiler Nation by Robin Brownlee mentioned Igor when discussing the state of Joni Pitkanen and his "toughness" factor. Basically, Joni is as delicate as a 19th century lady.

This is good part from the article:

Ulanov once had to be forced off the ice by officials at Madison Square Garden after taking a slapper in the mouth because he wanted to wait until the end of the period for repairs—he ended up needing 30 stitches. Uli was wicked tough. When I asked him what the hell he was thinking, he seemed offended.

“What?” he scowled. “It’s blood on my face. My leg is not broken.” My guess is Joni and Igor would’ve had issues.

Damn I miss Igor!!!

Okay back to our Oilers tonight, Pitkanen should draw back in after missing one game with the flu. Oilers will rebound nicely and win 4-2 with goals from Hemsky, Penner and Cogliano (2).

Mr. Overtime

2008-03-12T13:46:00.002-06:00

Oops, he did it again. In fact, he did IT three times in a row. Andrew Cogliano (aka Cogs) scored in overtime last night to lift the Oilers over the St. Louis Blues. Yes folks, that is his third overtime goal. Even more impressive, it's his third overtime goal in as many games. Yes, an NHL record.

Aside from blowing a 3-0 lead (let's not get into that yet), the Oilers held on and took the game to overtime. Cogs scored with 5 seconds left in OT with a beautiful pass from Gagner (Gags). Earlier in the season, I was shouting to put these boys together. Along with the addition of Nilsson lately, they are the dynamic trio. The kid line isn't kidding (yes that was bad). They have so much chemistry and even better, are scoring lots of goals.

Okay, let's get to this blowing leads. You know what? This team is young and yes, they're going to cock things up. But they are not blowing leads and losing like they did in December. I believe they lost 6 games in a row and were tied or leading heading into the third period. Fast forward a few months, and now when blowing a lead, the Oilers come back in OT or the shootout. Obviously we'd all like to see more regulation wins but this is a team in transition. They are developing (faster than we all thought) and becoming an Oilers team of old. Filled with physical play, using their speed and grinding out wins.

It's too bad their 7-1 run hasn't helped make up much ground. They are still 7 pts out of the playoffs. But it sure gives this fan some hope for the future.

Standing Pat

2008-02-26T17:27:00.003-07:00

Kevin Lowe did not make any deals today as the Edmonton Oilers was among a few teams that made no moves. I figured he'd be very quiet today but not this quiet. Go listen to Lowe's press conference to get his take. I think the players he wanted to trade (ie: Roloson) had no takers and maybe nothing significent in return. I mean look at Huet; he was traded for a second round draft pick. So if a starting goalie only gets a second rounder, I can't imagine much was offered for a backup goalie with a cap hit over 3 mil.

Anyways, here is a list of all the moves today. As mentioned already, Huet was probably the most surprising considering that was the only move from Montreal today. No one even mentioned he was on the block, he went for only a second pick and Montreal is now going with a 20 yr old goalie. Hmmm it'll be an interesting playoffs for the Habs.

Toronto did as expected: no one waived their no trade clause or there was no interest in the big ticket items (McCabe). They did move Kilger, Belak and Gill for draft picks. It's almost no fun laughing at the Leaves anymore. Seriously, Ferguson really hampered this team with all the no-trade clauses. This team is a mess and will be for the near future. Time to start buying out contracts if you can't trade them. Too much money is tied up in such poor talent.

Anyways, back to our Oilers. The good news is this team could be in much worse trouble (see the Leaves). The bad news is another missed playoffs, too many injuries, and a mediocre coach. More good news is the kids: they're developing faster than most of us thought and the future looks pretty good. Yes the Oilers need to get someone to play with Hemsky, resign our RFA's, unload some contracts (Roli) and stay healthy. So we have hope.

UPDATE: Good win in the shootout (shocking, yes) for our Oilers over Detroit. Oil blow a 2-0 lead and go down 3-2 late in the third, but score with 20 seconds left to send the game to overtime. Good gritty win....seriously nice to see. Oh yes, Pitkanen went down with an injury early in the third. Not sure how bad it is....is it broken?? If the Oilers' luck continues, of course it is. We'll find out tomorrow, maybe.

Let's Make a Deal

2008-02-25T21:31:00.003-07:00

So, who is getting traded tomorrow? There will be a couple big trades (Brad Richards and Marion Hossa will be on the move) and the rest will be salary dumps (basically for a bag of pucks).

A few names are already off the list:

-Sundin has refused to waive his no-trade clause. I'm Switzerland on this issue. He's showing his love for his team OR he's absolute lack of motivation to actually win the Stanley Cup. Maybe a bit of both? More about Toronto in a minute.

-Forsberg has signed with Colorado after weeks of indecision. Fuck, it felt like a lifetime. Bad news for Colorado; they just signed Peter Forsberg in 2008.

-Boyle has resigned a monster deal in Tampa Bay (6 years, 40 million which is a $6.66 million cap hit). Not sure this is a good signing....TB still needs an actual goalie especially since they've also just traded Prospal to Philadelphia for some pucks.

So, we know Hossa and Richards will be traded tomorrow but where will they end up? There is a story floating that Montreal is after Hossa. I'm not that high on Hossa; he's one of those types of players (ie: Europeans) that disappear in the playoffs so you'd better be careful with what you give up. However, Montreal could be a very big threat in the playoffs if they get him and he remembers to keep playing past the middle of April.

If Montreal stocks up, what will Ottawa do? The Sens just got their asses kicked by Toronto 5-0 (true sentence folks, I know this seems like a set-up for a joke, but it is not) so they must be getting worried. One problem with this team is defense (aside from starting Emery in net for five straight games. Gerber relieved him in the third after he gave up 5 goals on 21 shots. Why was he still in net after 3 or even 4 goals? Coaching is another issue in Ottawa). They traded Corvo away for Stillman and Raggaty-Ann (Commodore). Sure a bit more offense, but damn, they need more than that.

One note to Toronto: what a mess. Sundin, Kaberle, Kabina, and Tucker have all stated they will not waive their no-trade clauses. McCabe says he will think about it. How the hell can Fletcher make any changes for the better when his stupid predecessor handed out no-trade clauses like candy? He won't. Their best bet is to either buy out a couple of those guys (Kabina for sure) or sit their asses in the pressbox until they waive their no-trade clause. Also, what is TO doing? They should be tanking the rest of the season and trying to get that lottery pick. They are 6 pts out of the playoffs, and seriously, they aren't going to make it. TANK!!!!

Oh and Bryan McCabe? YOU ARE THAT BAD!!!

"I don't think we're that far off," McCabe said. "We had a ton of injuries again this year. You guys make this out to be like the worst team in the world....We're one or two players off, I think, from being a good team......I don't think we're that bad."

BAD.....VERY BAD!!!

Now we get to the OILERS. I am not expecting a trade of note tomorrow unless Lowe unloads Staios or Stoll. Those are basically our only two big trading chips. Maybe a Roloson if someone wants to take on his salary for next year. Otherwise, maybe a couple dumps (Reasoner, Sanderson) for some pucks/picks.

There is the rumour that the Rangers are after Robbie Schremp. So what is Lowe going to do? We keep hearing that Schremp is not a MacT-type player. Screw you MacT.....not every player needs to be a two-way forward. As much as everyone loves the Pisani's of the world, you need the Schremp's too! I'm not sure if you know but scoring goals is important.

I've always floated back and forth on the Scremp drama, but this kid has earned a real chance. Since Moreau is a broken piece of china these days, bring up Robbie and let him play the rest of the season. Give him huge ice time and let's see what he can really do. We can always trade him in the summer but come on, you've put so much time into this kid so give him a real shot. It's too bad he was injured late last year. He came into training camp recovered from his injury but had very little training time. So yes, he got passed by Cogliano, Gagner, Brodziak, etc. He's ready to go so give him a shot. I think there is room on the team now.

Anyways, not sure what will happen to our Oilers tomorrow but I doubt it will be as shocking as last year.

Zach Attack....

2008-02-19T17:22:00.005-07:00

The Oilers are in Nashville tonight and what are we to expect?? They have won 4 of 6 games but more importantly, they are a scrappy team again. Yes, they are intense, emotional, physical and gritty. This is the Oilers team we all know and love. Yes they had gone missing for awhile but in the past couple weeks, they have found their way home. When you even have Gags fighting, you know this team has gotten their edge back. I am lovin' it.

The Oilers have lost to the Predators six times in a row (I have no explanation....they're like Minnesota. They have our number and it's unexplainable). BUT, I think tonight is the night to end the losing streak. The Oil are going to bring the heat tonight!!

And this brings us to Zach Stortini. A few months ago, I (along with most Oiler fans) questioned his place on this team. He had trouble skating, couldn't fight (huggy bear or Sir Hugs A Lot) and seemed lost out there. Fast forward a few months, Zach has become an integral part of this team. His fourth line (with Brodziak, whom I absolutely adore, and Glencross) are lighting it up, not only in the hits department but on the scoreboard. They're actually carrying this team at times. They're taking the lead, and the rest of the team is following. They've all stepped up their intensity and physical play. This is Oilers hockey!!! I think we're all loving it! While they lost the Vancouver game, damn it was fun to watch. Aside from some shitty refereeing, it was a damn good game. We need this to continue!

Oilers win tonight 4-1 with the Zack Attack line scoring 2 goals along with Hemmer and Gags.

Are you ready to rumble??????

2008-02-09T15:31:00.001-07:00

The Oilers are in Calgary today for the Battle of Alberta. We won the battle on Monday, can we repeat and win again? I think hell yes!

Sure Calgary will be gunning for our kids after getting their asses kicked several times this week (by Chicago and our Oilers). But the Oilers seem to finally be fighting hard and competing. That is all I have really wanted all year. This team has been soft most of this year. They've forgotten their gritty style of play that catapulted them into the Stanley Cup Finals in 2006. Sure the team was down Moreau, Souray at times and Pisani. BUT....as we saw on Monday and Wednesday, this team is capable of playing the tough, forechecking and hitting style.

So the Oilers bring their swords (sticks) to Calgary, ready to pummel the Lames into contrition. Stortini will hopefully bring his fighting style from Chicago's game (he actually threw punches) instead of his usual Sir Hugs A Lot or Huggy Bear style!

Other news: Souray had surgery this week and it was suggested he might be ready to return in March. This has to be extremely wishful thinking but you never know. The Oilers are 7 points of the playoffs and while I'm not counting them out like many others are, the reality is that the Oilers have a very outside chance of making it. However, the chance is still there. They need to run the table, leap over some teams (St. Louis has four games in hand on us so that's one issue) and hope for some of those loser teams to start losing. If nothing else, we just want to see a good fight for the playoffs. I can handle another non-playoff year if they show some fire and play hard.

Will Kevin Lowe make any deals at the trade deadline? Will Pitkanen and Gilbert get signed? I am quite nervous about all the damn rumours of Pitkanen getting traded. I hear he's asking for a huge contract which is odd since sure he's a good d-man but really hasn't had a breakout year yet. He has 16 pts in 39 games this year (43 pts last year in Philly). So are his high demands his way of trying to get out of here? Does he truly believe he's worth that? Someone must be reading the blogs! We waited a whole year to get that puck-moving defenseman so I'd hate to see them trade him so quickly. He has such potential !!

One hour until gametime: I foresee a great win by the Oilers. Stortini punches Phaneuf so hard, he begins singing Celine Dion songs! 5-2 Oilers with goals by Hemsky (2), Gilbert, Cogliano and Reasoner.

To Suck or Not to Suck....that is the Oilers' question!

2008-02-04T13:46:00.000-07:00

Oilers are officially screwed!! Yes Shawn Horcoff is now out with season-ending shoulder surgery. All together now: FUCK!!!

So are the Oilers doomed to finish in the bottom five and give that dick Burke a lottery pick? All signs are pointing to that very scenario!! I suppose there is an outside chance that the team will rally together, led by Hemsky (sorry Horcoff-lovers, this team is Hemsky). Maybe Schremp will finally get a call-up but I'm not holding my breathe. We all know how much MacT 'loves' Robbie. And of course by love....I mean hate.

Tonight: Oilers vs Lames/Shames. I won't even venture a guess as to how badly the Oilers lose this one.....maybe they'll surprise me?

Update: CUJO starts tonight for the Lamers.....looks like Edmonton has a chance in this game!

Update: Well well well, did I call this or what? Cujo gets his ass kicked tonight and the Oilers win 5-0. Yes that is the correct score! Oilers were physical, dominant, and full of energy. Hemsky, Gagner, Garon and Moreau were fantastic!! I haven't been to such a great game in weeks. Good job Oilers....Rexall was rocking tonight especially during that mini-brawl in the third period. And refs....if the goalies wanna go, let them next time. We almost got a Joseph-Garon fight. Damn refs wouldn't let Joseph near Garon.

GOILERS!!!!!!

See you Dick!

2008-02-01T15:07:00.000-07:00

BIG TRADE!!!! Okay it's not but still a trade actually occured in the NHL. Yes that is big news. Anyways, Dick is gone to Columbus and in his place is Curtis Glencross. Who? Exactly....who the hell is this guy? A winger with 12 points. Yes that is exactly what this team needs: more mediocre talent. I love the "assets" from TSN that he can "score goals on occassion." I wonder what kind of occassion? Maybe leap years? Christmas? Birthdays??

So we basically got a 26 year old prospect who has spent the majority of his time in the minors. Oh well, salary dump.

The Dallas Stars are in town tonight and all signs point to another embarrassing loss. With Horcoff and Hemsky banged up with shoulder and wrist problems, and Souray on the IR, this team will be hard-pressed to scrape out a win tonight. I'd just love a good hard-fought game. Wins are not important anymore, just compete!!!

Almost an NHL Owner.....

2008-01-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

Well it looks like the deal is almost done! Katz will be the next owner of the Edmonton Oilers. Although a few may still hold out, it matters not! Katz is one step away from owning this team; he will be the majority shareholder. He may have 70 % when this is done or more. But the others will have no say if they don't end up selling. Also, the internal bid by some of the EIG is now off; it has been taken off the table. Can we all say one thing? YES!!!

First, we should all recognize and show our appreciate for a group of Edmonton businessmen led by Cal Nichols who banded together a decade ago and saved this team. I remember those days when it seemed like a forgone conclusion that this team was very close to being sold to a Texan and relocated. However, this group got together and kept this team in Edmonton.

BUT.....let's not feel too bad for these boys. They'll be getting back twice their initial investment (probably more than half) so they made out damn good. However, it is time to move on. Katz is the man for this team; the man to take this team to the next level. I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt but I do expect changes to be made when necessary. No more hanging onto ineffective management. I'm willing to be a loyal comrade through this rebuild but it should have been a true rebuild from the start instead of flip-flopping between rebuilding and contending (ie: Souray signing). It'll be interesting to see how involved he will be.
Thank you EIG. Time to pass the torch!!!

American Teams Suck!!!

2008-01-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well I'm watching the Oilers play right now against Tampa Bay on PPV. Well it's early in the second period and they are already down 2-0. Wait, it's now 3-0.

A couple notes on this game so far:

-get new sticks Jarret Stoll
-Roli is playing like crap tonight. Wait, that's an insult to crap. It's been bad and he just let in a short-handed goal (still in net too)
-Greene is crapola as usual. Either he rings it around the boards or gives the puck away. Seriously...Tarnstrom is not a better option?

Okay, powerplay goal for the Oilers and now it's 3-1 with a goal by Cogs.

-kids are buzzing tonight: Cogs and Gags (with Nilsson) are great together. Only took MacT 50 games to figure that out.
-the veterans are NOT. Where are they??
-nice to see Pitkanen back
-not a good game for Gilbert either (giveaway lead to a goal already)

Anyways, with the All-Star break almost upon us, the Oilers are only 6 points out of eighth spot. BUT....this team is most likely not making the playoffs. The Oilers had to win at least 4 of this 5 game road trip but with tonight's game, this is now doubtful. They lost a shootout to Washington, humiliated in Carolina, a good win in Atlanta and already down 3-1 tonight in Tampa Bay. I really did believe this team could fight for a playoff spot but that is sure not the case recently. The team has more troubles defensively than they do offensively. I don't have enough room to list all the problems with this team but I point the finger first at MacT. From keeping goalies in too long to questionable defensive zone coverage, this man should not be the man anymore.

One final note: I hate Oilers PPV. Rob Brown is a dreadful color man. In fact, I don't believe he should be called a color man. How about a black n'white man? Yes, he's that bland and colorless.

GO OILERS!!

Oh yes, one more final note: SELL SELL SELLLLLLLL!!!!! With articles noting Katz may have 68% of the shares willing to sell to him, let's make this happen and why not all 100%? Great article by John Mackinnon. This is the point I've been making for weeks:

Let's be clear, the choice here is between the financially flush Katz and a re-constituted EIG that has to borrow money to buy out those who are prepared to sell and borrow again to help finance a downtown arena for which Katz already has pledged an infusion of $100 million cash.

Why that almost makes sense?!?!

And looks like Sid the Whiney Kid is out for 6-8 weeks. I danced a jig of joy. If he hadn't been so intent on diving and trying to draw a penalty, he would never have been hurt. Yes, I know this might come as a shock but little baby Sid likes to dive. He really should do that in a swimming pool....

What Goes Around......

2008-01-06T17:41:00.001-07:00

Am I totally evil to have enjoyed this beautiful hit by Hatcher? That look on Lupul's face was basically the same look he had all of last year in Edmonton. Dazed and confused oh yes!

We get the warhead and we hold the world ransom for... ONE MILLION DOLLARS!

2008-01-03T08:38:00.000-07:00

This Katz thing is sure becoming one helleva mess. It's beginning to become VERY evident that there are some movements behind the scenes to sell within the team. An article in the Edm Sun gives some more lovely quotes from the new chairman of the EIG, Bill Butler.

"Our group can do as much as Katz with his billions. The Oilers are a debt-free $200-million asset that can be leveraged to buy out the current shareholders who want to exit. The Katz offer isn't as simple as it appears." Investors group members will meet at the end of January to further discuss Katz's offer. Butler said a vote over whether to sell the team is not expected to be held at that meeting."

So the EIG can do the same as Katz with his billions? Can you buy a hockey team outright without taking on debt? Can you offer up a $100 millions dollars of your own money to help build an arena? Can you please pull your head out of yours collective asses? No on all accounts!

Even better, Terry Jones from the Sun has an article that is just as predictable as the EIG. Thank you for telling me that Butler is a real estate developer. Cause selling a billion dollars worth of real estate (where does that figure come from?) is surely the same or better than actually being worth several billion dollars. Good point!

Jones also surmises (once again, where are these questions coming from?) that Katz’s motivation is not about a billion home-town boy wanting to own his childhood team but it's all about the arena. That's quite the leap. The first three offers for the Oilers did not mention the arena. So yes we see his super evil plan is all about the arena. It's all about the "greater wealth of Daryl Katz."

Butler thinks there are a "hundred different ways to finance this thing." Yes that is so true because building arenas are easy to finance. Like he said, a hundred different ways. I want to know: can they match Katz's offer of $100 million for the arena? They refuse to answer this question so the answer is an obvious NO.

So the "group which saved the franchise" is planning on taking on more debt, mortgaging the $200 million dollar worth of the Edmonton Oilers and financing the buying out of fellow shareholders and building an arena. Yes this is for the good of the Oilers. It's all about community!

Terry then takes another shot at Katz demanding he come out of hiding. I didn't know he was in hiding. He's trying to buy a hockey team, not implementing the final solution. He doesn't owe us any public declarations at this point.

This is a guy who won't come out of his hole and appear in public demanding answers from the citizens who saved the team without his help and without making a dime to answer to him because why? Because he's Daryl Katz and is worth two billion bucks?

Come clean? Come on!

The EIG sent a letter asking some questions (arena, keeping the team in Edm, etc) on New Year's Eve. Two days later, the EIG holds a press conference recommending to reject the offer. I have a wild idea. Stay with me because this is so out there, it'll blow your mind! How about letting him answer the questions, meet with him in person, have him actually attend the board meeting on Jan 21st and then make your recommendations??? And Terry Jones, please take your lips off the EIG's ass. This is so blatant and biased. Get off your knees!

I thought this sale would be a slam dunk after Nichols changed his mind to support the new offer in December but this is becoming ridiculous. You have a hometown billionaire who is offering to double your money, put up his own moolah of $100 million to a new arena, is offering to meet individually with each shareholder to answer all questions, and this is still not moving forward??

The EIG should be ASHAMED of themselves and the way they have collectively handled this matter. The press conference from yesterday was just another show of how inept this group really is. Finish the process before you make your recommendations and an ass of yourself. You may have been saviours in 1998 but you are NO LONGER. If you truly are committed to the Oilers, step up, spend to the cap EVERY YEAR, make your employers accountable for their actions (Lowe and MacT), put your own money towards an arena (do not mortgage the Oilers and take on more debt to do so) and stop hiding yourselves. Show yourselves and truly explain your actions. Don't hid behind "the community" and "saviours from 1998".....it doesn't float anymore.

One more: stop portraying Daryl Katz as an evil outsider intent on destroying the world. He is not Dr. Evil.

Also, the Oilers try to remain unbeaten in 2008 tonight in Nashville. Also Sheldon flew back to Edmonton after the game last night to get his shoulder looked at since it was hurting and had been for awhile. He has been icing it between periods. This can't be good, but probably not as bad as we think. He played the whole game last night so we'll have to wait and see!

Happy New Year....let 2007 be more winful than 2008!

2008-01-02T14:22:00.000-07:00

2007 is finally over and that means a nice fresh start for our Edmonton Oilers. However, 2008 is not ringing in as joyful as I would like. The EIG (board) is recommending to their shareholders that they should REJECT saviour Katz's offer. They voted 6-4 to recommend rejection of the offer but this might not be over as several major shareholders would like to sell according to TSN.

The EIG would also like more clarification on the possible $100 million offer for an arena and whether Katz would sign an agreement to keep the Oilers in Edmonton. I'm all for more information on the offer and would love a declaration from Katz to keep our Oil in Edmonton, but why recommend a rejection of the offer? Leave the decision to the individual members. No collusion please! How many more times is this man going to come back? Anyways, the entire EIG will meet on January 21st to vote on the offer. I hope they all come to their senses by then!

Oilers look to recover from a lovely six game losing streak tonight against St. Louis. Ahhh yes the game is on pay-per-view again. Sheesh, enough already Oilers. There are way too many games on ppv this year. Back to the game tonight. While they've been in all six games, this is such a must-needed win. They are 7 pts out of the playoffs but if they can get on a run, they're not out of it. However, their collapse in the third period is beginning to get old. They've either been tied or leading heading in the third in all six losses, but each time they gave up a late goal or collapsed entirely (hello Minnesota?). They need to get tough on the boards, shore up the defense, stop taking stupid penalties (hello Moreau, welcome back ass), no more giveaways (Horcoff, that's you too. He's also been held pointless in these six games) and please get some of our boys back (Hemsky and Pitkanen, we miss you).

Do the Oilers get back to their inconsistent winning ways? I say yes and it'll be a regulation win. I've called this before but didn't really believe it. I just have a feeling tonight. They have to turn it around. (update: Pitkanen returns tonight)!

Prediction: Oilers win 3-1 with goals by Horcoff, Cogliano and Souray!

UPDATE: Here is Katz's response which I think shows his frustration and has some VERY valid points!!!! Here is an excerpt!

''The board's conduct in recent days is confusing and I fail to see how it serves the best interests of (Oilers) shareholders,'' Katz said. "I have offered repeatedly to meet with the EIG Board of Directors, EIG shareholders - either individually or as a group - and with the professional advisors to any of the above to discuss my interest in acquiring the team and answer their questions."

''I intend to respond to whatever valid questions the board has about my offer for the team, but I think they owe an equal duty to come clean about any involvement members of the board may have in fashioning an alternative bid, how much debt they plan to assume to retain ownership, and what commitments they are prepared to make to help secure a new arena.''

I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse!

2007-12-13T15:22:00.000-07:00

Well well well, look has made another offer. And look has decided to "enthusiastically support" this offer? Yes it's EIG founding chairman Cal Nichols who is now behind the offer. How things change hmmm? BofA got the news up already so check it out.

So the offer is more money obviously and $100 million towards a new downtown arena. Oh and Cal gets to remain involved as the Oilers representative on the NHL Board of Directors. I see now why he's behind this new offer so enthusiastically!

Anyways, this is good news for our Oilers. One owner compared to 30. I always believed the time was past for the EIG. They stepped up in the late 1990s when this team was on the verge of being bought and moved. It was a wonderful move but it's time to move on.

Let's hope this deal is approved.

All about coveting....

2007-12-09T19:02:00.000-07:00

A story at sportsnet has Edmonton offering up Stoll or Torres for Joe Corvo. First, nice physique. I'm assuming the Oilers would throw in a defenseman or two since we have so damn many of them. I'm no expert on Corvo so I'm not sure if this is a good move. I have heard pretty good things about him, but aren't we kind of set for defense? Aren't we in need of forwards (and scoring) more than defensemen?

I know rumors are swirling that Stoll is on the trading block and he might just need a fresh start somewhere else. But I still think he has game and I'd prefer to get rid of Torres. Raffi is just all kinds of useless and his inconsistency is too much. He needs to go away, far far far away!

Anyways, Stoll/Torres plus a defenseman must be the deal. Who would go? Gilbert, Souray and Pitkanen are locks to stay. There is no way they'd be traded. That leaves Staios, Tarnstrom, Greene, Grebeshkov, Roy and Rourke. I'm putting Smid on the non-tradeable list. I like the way he's been playing of late, especially his physical play. I wouldn't be surprised if it was Staios. But will this deal happen? I'd bet no.

Oilers will visit Dallas tomorrow night, following an apparently lackluster game against St. Louis. I gave my season ticket to a friend and she was not impressed with the boys. Let's hope they can turn things around. Getting Stoll and Torres back in the lineup after sitting out should help. I'm hoping their time in the pressbox motivates them to work a bit harder and get some chances.

GO OILERS!

Have a Seat Boys...

2007-12-07T16:38:00.000-07:00

Best friends Jarret Stoll and Raffi Torres will be enjoying a night off tonight. Yes they will get to suit up, not on the ice, but in the pressbox. They can have some popcorn and beer, enjoy the game. Wait, sitting out is bad. Oops, my bad. So while they get to sit in the box mainly due to their gaffes from Wednesday's night game against the Crosby Crobsies, the other gaffe (Stortini) is playing tonight.

Liam Reddox gets the call tonight along with Patrick Thoresen to replace.....shit wait. Stortini is playing while Stoll and Torres sit out? There are all kinds of bad in that sentence. Yes Stoll and Torres have been sucking ass like it's going out of style but to have them sit and not Stortini?? If you're handing out punishments for bad play against Pittsburgh, you should include Zach along with the best buds.

Anyways, St. Louis is in town tonight to take on our Stoll/Torres-less boys. We get their backup goalie so you know what that means, we lose. Nah, I think they're going to bounce back. Garon is in net so we have some good news. Oilers win 4-1.

GOILERS!!

The Hype

2007-12-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, Sid the Whiny Kid is in town. With all the freakin' hype surrounding this, you'd think he was the greatest hockey player ever. Sorry to tell you, he is not. Nor will he ever be. He's not even the best player this year. That goes to Lecavalier.

So shall we take bets on how many times Sid gets shot tonight? Or shall I say how many times he falls to the ice as if he's been shot? I'll venture a guess: 4 times. Also, how many times will Sid get stabbed tonight? I should also clarify that as well; how many times will Sid fall to the ice as if he's been stabbed? I'll go with 3 times. Be careful with our little china doll.....he's very precious and you don't dare touch him without him collapsing to the ice in pain. Yes, it's phantom pain folks.

Anyways, I couldn't care less to see him tonight. I admit he is a very good player but his constant diving rubs me the wrong way. I despise players who act like that. Plus all the bloody hype surrounding this is nuts. I'm not overly excited to see him.

The Oilers are coming off their first three game winning streak of the year. Can they make it 4? I think they have an excellent chance. Both goalies seem to be finding their stride and are playing damn good! Also, Pisani returns and makes his home debut for the Oilers. He will get a huge ovation tonight. I'll be there to scream loud for his return! It's been really great seeing him back! Oilers missed his defensiveness.

Other news: TSN is reporting that Jarrett Stoll is on the trading block. Is that the case or another unsubstantiated rumor from TSN? We shall soon see. Even though he is struggling this year, I'd hate to see him go. Can they get anything good in return??

Prediction: 5-2 Oilers with goals from Pisani, Horcoff, Stoll and Hemsky (2). Oilers will finally make it to .500 tonight and on the road to a winning record.

Thor's Revenge

2007-12-02T09:16:00.000-07:00

Patrick Thoresen, after toiling in the minors for two months, has finally been recalled to the Oilers!!! He's put up some fine numbers down there and it's going to be nice to see him back in the line-up. The bad news is that Hemsky is out with a knee contusion but so far it's only day-to-day so we should see him back on Wednesday vs Pittsburgh when Sid the Whiny Kid comes to town (uh-oh, website has Hemmer out indefinitely).

Today the Oilers will be in Anaheim. Wait, didn't we just play them and beat them into submission? Oh yes, the NHL likes to force teams into being rivals so the idea of back-to-back games makes that happen. Sure whatever Bettman. At least they have finally realized their error and the schedule is going back to normal. All teams will play each other at least once. I actually don't like this idea. I want every team to play each other home and away. I have an even better, although slightly, radical idea. How about every team plays the same teams? Yes do away with divisional and conference games. The Oilers would play the same number of games against certain teams as would the Boston Bruins, and so on. That would make it fair. No more teams padding their wins from their weak division. I know this would never fly but damn I think it would be exciting. Keep the conferences the same but have each team play the exact same schedule of teams. Yes, I'm all about the fairness.

Okay that was an unattainable dream. Back to tonight's game, Oilers vs the Duckies! Our sweet Hemsky is probably not playing but Thor draws back in! We drove Giguere from the net on Friday, let's do it again! My prediction: Oilers win 5-2 with Cogliano, Thoresen, Stoll and 2 from Horcoff.

UPDATE: Pisani returns tonight!!!!!!