Game 20: O'Byrne's goof cost Habs vs. Isles
posted by Dave Stubbs at 9h36 EST on Nov 24
As if Ryan O'Byrne wasn't having a hard enough time this season, things got a little bit worse on Monday night when the defenceman scored in his own net on a delayed penalty call at 15:13 of the third period.
Canadiens goalie Carey Price had left the net with a penalty being called against the New York Islanders and O'Byrne tried to put the puck behind his net, but instead directed it at the empty Canadiens net to tie the game 3-3.
The Islanders got on the board first when Park scored on an Islanders' power play 6:54 in the period. But that lead did not last long as Steve Bégin scored 17 seconds later on a deflection.
Josh Gorges scored a power-play goal midway through the first period to give Montreal a 2-1 lead. It was Gorges first goal in his 89th regular-season game with the Canadiens.
Montreal increased that lead when Maxim Lapierre scored 4:29 into the second on a nice pass from Christopher Higgins.
But the Islanders narrowed the gap when Trent Hunter scored on a power play 8:05 into the second period.
Carey Price stopped 21 of the 23 shots he faced, with O'Byrne's own goal counting as the 24th Islanders shot. MacDonald stopped 23 of 26 shots.
The Islanders were 2-for-5 with the man advantage, while the Canadiens could only score once in seven chance.
Canadiens goalie Carey Price had left the net with a penalty being called against the New York Islanders and O'Byrne tried to put the puck behind his net, but instead directed it at the empty Canadiens net to tie the game 3-3.
The Islanders got on the board first when Park scored on an Islanders' power play 6:54 in the period. But that lead did not last long as Steve Bégin scored 17 seconds later on a deflection.
Josh Gorges scored a power-play goal midway through the first period to give Montreal a 2-1 lead. It was Gorges first goal in his 89th regular-season game with the Canadiens.
Montreal increased that lead when Maxim Lapierre scored 4:29 into the second on a nice pass from Christopher Higgins.
But the Islanders narrowed the gap when Trent Hunter scored on a power play 8:05 into the second period.
Carey Price stopped 21 of the 23 shots he faced, with O'Byrne's own goal counting as the 24th Islanders shot. MacDonald stopped 23 of 26 shots.
The Islanders were 2-for-5 with the man advantage, while the Canadiens could only score once in seven chance.
Tags:
Comments
12345678next ›last »
Submitted by RC-51 on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 20:08.
i think its time for people to leave OB alone,stop picking on the guy. So he made a mistake, he is human! The team isnt playing well and these types of things happen.There are others who are not playing that good at all
Submitted by BACKDOOR on Wed, 11/26/2008 - 11:41.
Everyone please despite that crampus remember o'burnt leads the team and league in hits. - - - - about a million on you-tube!!
http://www.sportlots.com/auction/aucbin/selleritems.tpl?seller=BACKDOOR
Submitted by bakersresin on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 16:27.
O'Byrne is directly responsible for this loss and the loss on Saturday vs Bruins when he got deked out for the first goal then sitting in penalty box for the second.
Submitted by POPS on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 16:03.
The whole team seems to be playing better (a couple of bounces here or there and...). I feel a big win coming up in Detroit!! I think O'Byrne's goal last night will help diffuse the pressure. Funny, wasn't O'Byrne's Florida incident during a slump last year and as I recall the team picked-up after that point?
Submitted by Habs Fan in Hogtown on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 22:27.
Hear Hear. We finally played 2 pretty good games in a row, so it was time to lose both because of a mixture of boneheaded plays, missed shots and hot opposing goaltenders. We managed 2 points, are playing much better than a few weeks ago. I'd prefer to watch games like these rather, win or lose, rather than most of what preceded it.
Submitted by Bugs on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 15:03.
Bloody brilliant!
Clown-*** bro got ahead of me cuz I had a good one too.
But not THIS good:
Next pre-season. The Dine and Whine of 2009. The Battle Royale in Montreal. Coco Channel vs St-Flannel.
Habs vs Fans. Be there!
http://habsbros.blogspot.com
Best hockey photo I've ever seen.
Peace Out
______________________________________________________
Lord Bugs Potter, esq. Earl of Fluppitburg, Baron of Flopshlupshire and Knight of the Flannel Republic.
Submitted by Mike T on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:55.
OB is starting to filter himself out of the lineup. He's overrated, his biggest upside is his size. We have a ton of defensive prospects who can step up in the next couple years. However, i whole heartedly believe that we cannot have OB in our top six and do much damage in the playoffs. I'm not saying anyone from Hamilton is ready. I think we need to make a deal. Defense is where Gainey will be looking come Trade Deadline day.
It's not even based on OB last night. You watch him any night this year and he's been responsible for quite a few bonehead plays. The breakout play is what i find overly frustrating.
Go Habs Go
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 15:46.
ask any forward in the league who they'd rather go into the corner against or fight for position in front of the net.
Obryne or Breeze?
case closed.
Submitted by Mike T on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 16:15.
Probably O'Byrne...he gives you all the room in the world. Brisebois is fine for a seventh defenseman
If we got bouwmeester>..
Markov - Komisarek
Bouwmeester - Hamrlik
Boullion - Gorges
Brisebois
O'Byrne
Submitted by Habsrule1 on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 16:42.
OB is stronger than Breezer, but he IS NOT a better all-around defenseman. Breezer is a good 7th, and OB is not even that yet.
That being said, for the long haul, I'd choose OB. For 1 big game right now...Breezer hands down.
"I can't hear what Jeremy(Roenick) is saying because my Stanley Cup rings are in my ears" - Patrick Roy
Go Habs Go!!
Habsrule
Submitted by Mike T on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 17:42.
agreed.
Submitted by Ian Cobb on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 16:35.
Response to the article below about Ian on Monday
Hello! all of you Habs fans.This is Andree, I know Ian has come a long way with the reading and writing, the praise for Ian is great, but don't forget I live with the man and right now, he has such a big head, it hardly fits through the door way. So let's get back to the topic that this site is famous for, hockey and it's complexity.
It was nice meeting several of you at the summit. Cheers!!
Submitted by HabsColor on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:29.
In NHL, are there any teams equiped with Psychologists? Just curious.
Submitted by Batalla on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:10.
No need to worry guys... The Canadiens might be slumping, but they have a plan:
http://habsbros.blogspot.com/2008/11/canadiens-to-play-exhibition-game.h...
Plus, Gainey won't panic. The team is still in the playoff picture (relatively comfortably) and there is tons of time for the team to get their confidence back. The good news out of all of this (if there is any) is that despite the losses, the Habs have been in every game. They just need to score.
If we get BLOWN AWAY by Detroit on Wednesday, that's when we can really start thinking about making a change. And that's probably sending down a Kostitsyn and bringing up Stewart or Pacs (imho).
Submitted by LatheDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:55.
Boone, do you know, by any chance, whether the Habs are lodging in Windsor, ON instead of Detroit and then crossing the border come game time? I heard some Canadian teams prefer to stay in Canada if possible.
I wonder if their flight is directly from Montreal to Detroit. I wonder whether the Windsor Airport is too small.
Submitted by Habhopeful on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:51.
Some history on Own-Goals
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=257273&lid=headline&lpos=secStory_nhl
"We get nose jobs all the time in the NHL, and we don't even have to go to the hospital."
~Brad Park.
Submitted by doug on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:47.
Sure this was covered. . . but great timing, Mr. Roy, Jr.
I tend to agree with the opinions expressed on ESPN that Patrick Roy was always something of a vigilante and that I wish we had made him sweat it out like we did "Boom Boom". I know it's the centennial but did we really need to correct things with this guy so fast? What's in it for the Habs? I would have let him twist in the wind until he'd grown old, his legend had grown, and he wasn't the jerk we've seen chastizing QMJHL goaltenders who aren't likely to play a game in the playoffs (2006) or demonstrating that he's got questionable parenting skills. Yeah - I'll get jumped on for that, but one's bad luck, two's a pattern.
Roy's son Frederick handed 15-game suspension
ESPN.com news services
MONTREAL -- Another son of hockey great Patrick Roy is facing disciplinary action for on-ice behavior.
Frederick Roy was suspended 15 games Monday by the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League for high-sticking during the Quebec Remparts' game against the Montreal Juniors last Friday.
Roy, a forward with the Remparts, struck Montreal defenseman Vincent Bourgeois in the mouth during a timeout.
The league decided to suspend Roy after reviewing video of the incident and interviewing those involved.
The suspension comes eight months after Roy's brother, Jonathan, was suspended for seven games by the junior hockey league for participating in on-ice fight. Jonathan Roy is facing criminal charges for attacking goalie Bobby Nadeau during a game. Patrick Roy was suspended for five games for the incident.
Submitted by tony d on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:53.
I saw that cross check on the news...very ugly...I guess the acorns haven't fallen too far from the tree huh?
Looking at his kids' faces during the ceremony on Sat night, there didn't seem to be a whole lotta lovin' in that family. I guess you reap what you sow...(ok I'm done with cliches for today)
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 15:12.
>Looking at his kids' faces during the ceremony on Sat night, there didn't >seem to be a whole lotta lovin' in that family.
I was wondering if anyone else was thinking that... it seemed a little... different.
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by Habs fan in SF on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:57.
both of his sons need an *** whoopin'. did you see there smug faces? there "frat boy" hairstyles? geezus! i don't see why these guys skate around like they're 6'5" ... i checked their personal stats ... according to hockeydatabase frederick is only 5'09" and 144 lbs. midget!
Submitted by mrhabby on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:04.
smug , spoiled , little punks.
Submitted by Skotbot on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 15:24.
for sure
Do I listen to pop music because I am miserable?
Or am I miserable because I listen to pop music?
Submitted by MTL LOVE on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:45.
Any of u guys here listen to the team 990 with PJ stock? Anyway, he just suggested that the first move Gainey should make is trade Kovalev, I don't get it...wtf is going on with the team this year, is it because they were picked to make it on top in the east? Things don't seem right...he also pointed out that ak46,sk74,pleky and markov aren't producing cuz they hang out with Kovy...any relevance ya think? Ah well, love em' win or lose, but they gotta show some heart nd rack up some wins.
Btw- O'Byrne's goal was brutal, how in the hell can u not follow the play. Yeah as he put it, everyone makes mistakes lol
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 15:13.
If PJ Stock says that, then I think we should keep him!
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by xaverian001 on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:05.
That would be a shame to trade him after we've cast so many All-star votes in his favour!
I don't think you'll see BG trade Kovalev ... remember he's the one who brought him in and he also is the one credited with getting him going last year.
I think Kovy is tired of being the "game breaker" and what he really needs is someone else to step up and provide some scoring to alleviate the pressure on him. With the exception of Koivu and Tanguay, everyone is watching to see what he'll do rather than taking it upon themselves to create chances. The guys we really need to step up are AK46, Plekanec and Higgy. All of those guys were pushing 30 goals last year ... do they even have 10 collectively this year???
I hate to bring it up again, but with the struggles early this season Bob may push hard to bring Sundin in. Unfortunately, Lang will be the guy moved out along with Dandy. At least Lang has played well enough that teams won't be scared to take on his contract.
Kovalev is not going anywhere.
Submitted by mrhabby on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:14.
I would be shocked to see him go as well.however, the longer this plays out the more unhappy kovy will be. Ya just cannot have players with shitty attituds on the team it brings the hole room down. Just need a string of wins.
Submitted by doug on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:51.
No relevance regarding others not performing. He can help bring them up - and did last year - but his dismissal wouldn't help them come back. If he finds himself his group of Eastern European followers get inspired: solution is to fix Kovalev not jetisone him. And that requires that walk with Gainey again: he's fiercely proud and needs to be treated differently and to have a light put under his butt. People have long mistaken him for indifferent like Malakhov: he's not, he just needs things to motivate him that challenge him in a way that matters, combined with a heavy dose of love.
PJ Stock? Scrappy second-tier fighter type. Don't care and don't know why we get these hand me downs for hosts in hockey's best market.
Submitted by Habs fan in SF on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:49.
i take whatever PJ says with a grain of salt. no clue why this guy has a job on the radio or even worse on freaking HNIC. he had zero talent on the ice - and even less talent on the air.
Submitted by Habs fan in SF on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:44.
maybe kovy should try scoring in his own net to build his confidence up. just a thought ...
Submitted by Shobud on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 15:18.
If Kovy makes the all stars watch for him after. There will be one hot player. He is down on himself right but it will only take one thing to get him going. I think everyone should make sure he makes the all stars, and then sit back and enjoy.
Submitted by Fansincebirth on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:30.
Last time I checked, I was a Habs fan.
When they win, I'm a happy Habs fan.
When they lose, I'm a pissed off, ready to kick the cat Habs fan.
I've been a Habs fan for a very long time, 45+ years as a matter of fact. I've seen plenty of good, great and very very bad seasons and versions of this team.
For those of you in this forum who are ready to string up BG, Carbo, Kovy, O'B, BGL and anyone else who dares to mess with the possibility of the Habs not winning a cup also be the same people who will sing the praises of BG, Carbo, Kovy, O'B or BGL when we pull out of this funk and put together a winning season?
Just a question.......
Submitted by The Cat on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 15:38.
"Kick the cat"...Please I have feelings too...:)
Submitted by Skotbot on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:36.
I agree whole-heartedly
These bashers will be first in line at the parade saying they called the win since the begining of the season...
I think last years performance brought out the bandwagoneers...
Kinda makes us feel like the NY Yankees..
everybody likes a winning team.
/SIGH
Do I listen to pop music because I am miserable?
Or am I miserable because I listen to pop music?
Submitted by Timo (not verified) on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:36.
Don't kick the kitty!!!
Submitted by tony d on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:35.
you must have one scared cat these days
Submitted by mrhabby on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:05.
lmao.
Submitted by Fansincebirth on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:38.
Actually I haven't seen much of him since the Boston game on the 13th :o)
Dog and kids are looking a little nervous....
Submitted by tony d on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:40.
LOL...."STAY AWAY FROM DADDY"!!!!!
Submitted by Fansincebirth on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:45.
Oh Hell ya. The wife learned a long time ago
a. not to fall asleep in the room when the game is going on, especially the playoffs
b. not to attempt to humour me when we SUCK
c. not try to sit quietly in the same room when the game is on. We're either screaming "ET LE BUT" or screaming profanities
and finally
d. my devotion to the Habs goes deep, very, very deep
Submitted by mrhabby on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:08.
ur nuts...lol.
Submitted by xaverian001 on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:06.
Here! Here!
Submitted by mrhabby on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:09.
X..SUCKS...GO DAL.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:32.
Todays talk shouldn't be about Obyrne and that slight slip-up.
it should be about BREEZE and his 'cry to mommy run to the bench tail between the legs, leave his defensive position..BABY CRY BABY PLAY that sends a much bigger message to the league...we are WEAK.
who was that defenseman boston? philly? that took that massive slapshot off the ankle against us, and he stuck in there, crawled around on his knees in pain and eventually cleared the puck.
BREEZEWAY goes into the corner against their smallest player and it looks like he was shot, raised his hand to the trainer, and without even looking where the puck was or his defensive responsibilities he FLED to the bench for MOMMMY!!!
that is warrant of a immediate dismissal...we cannnot have BABIES on the roster...it really makes me sick that someone can do that.
and then show up for his next shift....that should be the talk.
shame on the shortsightedness here and in the rafters at the bell.
OB needs to keep playing, he needs 20 minutes / game. If anything changes in regards to OB, then Carb is totally incompetent...on top of his incompententness.
1. We won't be a serious contender until PAX/STEW/CHIP/D'ags/WEB are in the lineup.
2. The BGL effect is pivotal to our success this season.
3. Kovalev is now in his prime...he just needs his linemates to reach his level.
4. The Bell Centre should be rebuilt to hold 80,000 spectators.
Submitted by CHsam on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:01.
I just went to my bathroom and found a can of FEBREEZE. Too bad it aint gonna stop that stench thats wafting from the D zone when hes on the ice.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:19.
never mind febreeze...call a fumigator.
wonder if anyone actually asked "skate through my Breezeway" about that incident last night...
Submitted by tony d on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:56.
agreed, I hit the roof when he skated off!!! My wife said, yeah but he's hurt. I said who gives a @#$$#@!!!!, you don't just leave when the play's in your end....unbelievable!
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:17.
unbelievable is right....don't forget, its one of our weaknesses and it must be corrected. otherwise we're just waisting our time.
Submitted by Timo (not verified) on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:43.
I brought this play yesterday and was surprised nobody was pissed about that. I could not believe. This was reminiscent of Kovalev in playoffs 3 years ago when he got slash, abandoned the play and just skated to the bench which resulted in OT goal.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:16.
I'm getting 15 years tired of watching this wet noodle who degrades us.
you know he's a nice guy....AND THATS THE PROBLEM!!!
we need ANIMALS ON DEFENSE!
Breeze would be great for P.R. work in the Habs organization.
Submitted by Dintrox on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:42.
OB is not a top 4 D man yet. He shouldnt get 20 mins per game. I agree that the 'team' is responsible and OB shouldn't be the scape goat. There are a lot of players that need to start playing better. Kovalev was a leader last year and he and his linemates have virtually disappeared. chris higgins continues to have no luck ( despite his hat trick). The team needs to be accountable.
For those who are saying 'fire carbo' and 'gainey is a bum', you are so wrong. Last year, Carbs was a Jack Adams finalist. He is relatively new to coaching (He just made it to his 100th win I think),but he definitely isnt the worst coach in the NHL. Gainey is one of the leagues best GMs. He is well respected by his peers and by those who know hockey in general. Last year, we trusted in Bob. I trust Bob!
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:15.
I'm not saying fire Carb...he just needs to do the right thing, and that is ask Bob to bring up some hungry talent from Hamilton...Carb needs to forget the old boys club and restrict his dealings with Breeze/Dandy to afterhours cocktails at the golf and country club. We've got a championship to contend for.
Submitted by HabsColor on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:21.
For O'Byrne's mistake, I blame Guy Carbonneau. Sounds crazy? but it's true. This kid (O'Byrne) has been struggling for a certain time. As a coach, Carbo should have set a solution for him and the postion. Unfortunately, Carbo did nothing.
This "accident" is too big to a new and young player. Hope O'Byrne can handle it correctly.
(Healthy players should be both physically and mentally healthy)
Submitted by HABZ24 on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:17.
ryan OH BURNED us !! whata a jackazz stupid mistake.look up idiot.i just watched the game on rds express ,i followed OH BURNS moves .actually hes a solid defensive player, races back infront of price, protects the front of the net, checks players outta he crease, clears the zone, not the best puck mover, never ever see him shoot on net, maybe he should try.being huge maybe hes a closet sourray.f'd up bad and cost us the game with that retard goal. hell i did that when i was 6 .my brother still ribs me i only got one goal in my career and on my own net.
again kovey is aggravating to watch out there.skating with a bag of nickles on each foot.lolly gag, drift around.geez. go to chez paris and get ur oil changed buddy get it going will yuh, we need u in the game!! kovey hangs 2 feet from the side boards, trying his best not to get hurt, so he can prolong his career. than from that insane angle has crap to shoot at except a lil bread basket opening top shelf right side.HELLLLLLO earth to kovey that moves been picked up lonnnnnng ago by opponants.move kovey to center where he cant hide along the boards like a church mouse,more net to shoot at playing center.. oh ya he might get checked,cant have that.
we did have more effort and speed last night. thats a positive sign.let price carry the load playing 75 percent of the games, hes or no. one, the hell with this goalie duel crapola.
other teams have now figured us out.thats why its harder to play our game. theyre doing like the bruins have done vs us, one or 2 forcheck us rest clog the neutral zone.that shuts us down it seems. weve gotta re-adjust . i say f the all team defense and leave two defense back and play run and all out gunn, use our speed and shoot shoot shoot.
go habz please go!! ps: no more shoot outs my nerves are shot.
Submitted by Habs64 on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:05.
Burke in as Prez and GM of Leafs!
http://www.thestar.com/sports/article/543010
Submitted by twocents on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:20.
There's a shocker. At double his Anaheim salary too. Tarranna knows how to spend.
Submitted by mrhabby on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:18.
a blow hard for a blow hard team.that being said he will rid the team of EURO'S ( MOST OF THEM) bring in Canadians who are big, can hit , forechek and pound the crap out of you..like anaheim.
Submitted by Skotbot on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:01.
So... over 500 posts when we lose...
why do I have a funny feeling that half of these posters only come out to trash a losing team?
If I remember correctly, there are A LOT less posts after a Habs WIN...
I just wish that they brought up the Hamilton guys, let them screw up too, so we can stop hearing about how bringing up Chip/Dag/BMax/Webber/ETC will all of a sudden rectify the problems the organization is having.
Be realistic ppl.
we will lose games
horribly too
its a long season, and as someone pointed out, we are at equal terms with last years club point-wise...
I guess ppl are expecting this to be a no-flaw, 82-0-0 season...
Im not saying there isnt problems. I hope & bet Bob is trying his best..
But what else do you want from a professional sports team? your money back if they lose? a shot at Carbos job? a free beer/hot dog..
Come on ppl.
Lets pls stop the hate, work with CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM and stop acting as if we were the GM/coach that God sent from the heavens to save this team by posting nonsense after every lose.
PPL keep saying trade / send him down / bring him up / Fire him / ETC
Sometimes i wish the Habs can trade all these fickle fans, then, and maybe then, with a little SUPPORT the club can get through this slump.
It has come to the point where logging onto this site after a lose is painful..
Do I listen to pop music because I am miserable?
Or am I miserable because I listen to pop music?
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:04.
Hey.. I take offense to that.. But true.. Many posters here love to trash the Canadiens when they can or only see teh negative in a game we lost but played well...
Since Latendresse isn't there, the new whipping boy is O'Byrne...
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Koivu for Prime Minister...
Submitted by habs R not on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:34.
Carbo is by far the worst coach in the NHL, and Gainey isn't much better. He never does anything except try and make this team into a european team full of lazy gutless and heartless players. now he should be bringing in players from Hamilton, but instead he would rather stick with players who make mistakes every game, costing us points, are putting the puck in their own net! Why isn't D'Agostini and Weber with this team??
Gainey has sh@!#$%t for brains! as long as he is our GM, we will NEVER win a cup!
Submitted by jmsheehy19 on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 14:00.
..................don't insult Gainey
Submitted by Skotbot on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:05.
I think Bob just stepped down and the Habs will be offering you the job based on this wonderful post.
Do I listen to pop music because I am miserable?
Or am I miserable because I listen to pop music?
Submitted by quickcritic on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:54.
Relax...
First of all this is the same team that was 1st in the Eastern Conference last season. So, because they're not living up to YOUR expectations that means they're no good all of a sudden?
If you'd take the time to compare the points and stats of last year you would know that they're identical to last season. In almost every way. And they had a team that they needed to catch, and that was Ottawa. We all thought it was a foregone conclusion that Ottawa would win the division and the East. However, they took a nose-dive and the Habs peaked at the right time.
This year is no different. Boston has taken the early lead at the same rate as Ottawa last year. Sooner or later Boston will have to slump or face some injuries which could be a good chance for them to pounce.
The Habs are in a slump right now and facing plenty of injuries and yet they are still 2nd in their division and 5th in the East!
Some tweaking might be in order, however I don't think full scale panic should ensue anytime soon. I say, stay the course and make minor adjustments, whatever they are, and keep getting dirty points here and there until the right recipe takes hold.
Submitted by habs R not on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:50.
you are totally wrong! we are NOT the same team as last year. look at Kovalev's play? where's his effort, passion? he is one of the most selfish players ever! is our PP the same as last year? hell we're near the bottom, if not there already, in PP.
some of you really piss me off with your"we're the same team as last year" attitude. we may have alot of the same players, but we are certainly not playing like last year.
my question is: does Kovalev have a no trade contract?
because if he doesn't, trade this guy immediately, and then you will see a positive atttude and the team putting in 60 minutes every night. he is the CANCER on this team. anf if he stays, this team is done by xmas! mark my words! Kovalev is bitter because his contract wasn't extended, and it shows on the ice. he couldn't score a goal if his life depended on it, and he's a bad influence on the his linemates and the rest of the team.
you watch what happens if and when he's traded. it will be a breath of fresh air!
Submitted by RiverviewCanadien on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:47.
Reading your post was a waste of time, it was complete nonesense...
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:53.
Great reply. Warning others is a smart response to a post like that.
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by twocents on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:59.
SmartDog, welcome back, good to see you!
(well, good to have you back, I've never really enjoyed looking at your avatar. ;oD)
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:09.
Thanks! Tell u what - I'll change the pic when we show what we're worth... a nice 5-1 pounding of the Red Wings, heck, ANY team would be nice.
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by LatheDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:44.
From Dog to Dog, I hope you're right because I will be at the game in Detroit!
Submitted by twocents on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:10.
I've heard that claim too many times to believe it.
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:18.
lol this time I MEAN it!
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by Ian Cobb on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:28.
The only difference between last year and this year is larger fan expectation.
Personnel moves have been favourable with the new additions of Lang and Tanguay, Laraque showed his self worth in the Boston game. Price has replaced Huet very nicely.
The most glaring void is the total minutes of, on our sticks puck control of last year. Not only on the power play, the total game in both ends of the rink. We don't have the personnel this year that can keep the puck in there possession long enough for other players to work there way into open spots to receive passes and keep the puck moving among our 5 players on the ice. Jean Beliveau was the best that I ever saw, but he had others with him. Kovalev is another that has that gift, but he really can not do it all. Mark Streit was a master of giving time and space to players with his one extra move with the puck. With him and Kovalev on the ice together last year it gave much more time and space to the others like Koivu and the Kostinsons to move to open spots. This game is all about time and space and we have not replaced this year as yet what Mark Streit brought to the table. He did not stand out like others but we now know how under rated he was. We have not found his replacement yet, and until we do we won't be much of an offensive threat on the PP or 5 on 5.
Submitted by longtimehabsfan on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:31.
But the PP went south in the playoffs and Streit was still here. This team is suffering from a hangover for not elevating its game in the playoffs when their opponents did. It's a confidence issue. The only question is: Will they overcome it with this squad or will BG need to re-tool starting at the trade deadline or next summer. Think of the NY Islanders of 1979. They thought were going to win the Cup but were upset by the Rangers. The next year the Isles struggled until late in the season when they found their game [thanks in large part to the Butch Goring deal]. How about the Nordiques of 1993. Upset by the Habs. The following year Quebec tanked. But with some retooling they were back in contention in 1995.
Submitted by SlovakHab on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:56.
Ian,
In my humble opinion, the main difference between last and this year is a lack of improvement.
We all thought that if last year's team improves, only sky is the limit. Well, it happened, but in Boston. Look how many improved players they have!
Us? Gorges & Tanguay (slightly also Lapierre & Latendresse).. that's it.
Price keeps his standard, as does Koivu, Lang, Halak, Hamrlik and a couple of more players. Begin, Dandy, Breezer, Cube and Kostoupulos also didn't get worse, but their talent and therefore impact is limited.
O'B, Kovalev, Tits A. and S., Plex, (Higgins), .. That is quite a few previously impact players that do not meet expectations this season. With Markov and Komi playing OK, but not great either, of course we are not as good as last year.
Submitted by Ian Cobb on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:23.
I thought we would be a better team in the New Year when the season started.
The Kids had to get use to this league and the new comers had to fit in, so I said that in the new year we would take off. I sure hope that happens.
But it is becoming frustrating watching our club finding new way to fall on their nose.
As long as they keep picking themselves up until they get it right. Peaking at the right time is an art also.
Submitted by longtimehabsfan on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:38.
Keep the faith.
Submitted by SlovakHab on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:04.
OK, O'B and SK don't count as previously impact players, on a second read. But still - lack of improvement, IMO.
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:44.
Hey Ian - great picture!
Good post too... I think you can file that under "chemistry" though it's the most specific and interesting explanation I've heard of why the team is struggling this year despite the addition of two talented players in Tanguay and Lang.
The team seems on the one hand more pressured, and on the other to be taking more time when they don't really have it with the puck. Another things Streit's big one-timers did is sped up the play. He pulled the trigger more often than Markov does, he hardly seemed to care how many guys were in the way, and that added energy, rebounds, and speed.
So the solution? Another Mark Streit? And what about Lang, who is obviously talented but seems to me to play a less fluid game - and so might be slowing us down?
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by Ian Cobb on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:14.
It is water under the bridge now but I was very disappointed we could not sign Mark. I still believe he was a main player that should have been paid.
But we work with what we have, maybe I will be invited to the dressing room to give a motivational speech in Russian.
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:43.
I remember that. I have to admit I was on the other side. You mighta been right.
You speak Russian? Is there a Russian HIO you're spending your time on now?
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by tony d on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:45.
I've noticed Lang and kovalev have slowed down considerably, what gives? My wife even commented last night when Kovalev got the puck, she said, "Oh my God, he's so slow, he looks like an old man!" She also said something about the toilet being plugged or something, but I only listened to the Kovalev comment.
Submitted by krob1000 on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:23.
I think Lang is deceiving ..I don't think he is that slow. Kovalev just has issues with going into a two foot glide and not moving his feet at times. The penalty he took last night was a perfect example....two more strides and he would have knocked his man off the puck...he went into his glide, the other guy kept his feet moving.....penalty. Andrei K and Koivu are the best examples of what a combination of skill and continuing moving your feet can do. Higgins does it too but his hands aren't yet capable of keeping up with his feet (same with Lapd). If you watch guys like Crosby or Ovechkin attack the zone even if they break into a glide to make a move they will immediately start moving them again to change speeds. I am not saying Kovy is those guys and has their acceleration but he can handle the puck while moving his feet but isn't anmymore once he gets into the offensive zone. He seems to sometimes become reliant on his puckhandling and ability to turn on a dime from his glide. He is the best I have ever seen at that but if he doesn't mix it up with speed burst and keep his feet moving it becomes predictable and easier to defend. Kovy is his own worst enemy but I thought last night and for most of the game against Boston he did fine at this.
One factor and one that HAS to be addressed is the length of his shifts.....he has opportunites to get off and doesn't and that will drive coaches and teammates crazy, especially when he then doesn't move his feet and turns the puck over. That has always been an issue with Kovy (long shifts) and one of the funniest hockey stories ever is Mike Keenan leaving him on for 8 or 9 minutes straight to teach him a lesson ....he thought it was a compliment lol. I think his issues are going to work themselves out but his frustration and ability to cope with it are going to play huge in our success this year. He either gets back to being Kovy or he gets back to being Kovy....and you know what I mean.
Submitted by tony d on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:29.
good point, everyone's noticed his shifts getting longer and longer and the result being, empty tank to backcheck, actually Koivu was guilty of it last night as well
Submitted by nosglo on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:55.
Nice work on the selective hearing. The key to enjoying any Habs game at home.
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:53.
Actually for Lang that isn't that true... He has points in his last 5 games. He has been ok on faceoffs.. Yes he misses chances but he does create chances which is a plus also.
Kovalev this year is playing like Kovalev of 2 years ago... May be not as bad but along the same lines. Yes he isn't getting the super numbers but yesterday we saw him putting in the effort. I suspect that his confidence isn't where it should be.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Koivu for Prime Minister...
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:56.
I'm not questioning Lang's effort or talent - just wondering if anyone else thinks his slower style of play (to me) might not be a positive fit for the rest of the team.
And yeah, Kovy like much of the team could use a boost I'm sure. People forget that even stars have highs and lows. I think Kovy is trying hard most of the time... notice how he lost his helmet last night but didn't go after it. ;)
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:59.
Slow.. Maybe.. But Lang brings what Smolinski couldn't do... Score... and win faceoffs... if he was on the first 2 lines I would agree with your comment.. But on the third line he is doing his job..
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Koivu for Prime Minister...
Submitted by SmartDog on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:54.
Seriously, what's wrong with that?
~Listen to the smart dog!
Submitted by Ian Cobb on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 13:01.
Great to see that Ugly face on hear again Smart Dog!
Yours was even a better response
Submitted by Corporate on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:55.
Expectations are higher this year. People want more... I say give them time.. Even if we get in the playoffs by the back door.. I don't care.. as long as they play well in the playoffs...
Now.. The real test will be tomorrow night against the Red Wings.. Now this should be a good measuring stick... We will have to be a lot tighter in our defensive zone and Price will have to be a Stallion... Cause he will have a Certain Holmstrom that will be in his face all night...
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Koivu for Prime Minister...
Submitted by RiverviewCanadien on Tue, 11/25/2008 - 12:20.
In OB's defense (pardon the pun), I think he was playing one of his better games this year. Yes he F$#%ed up big time, but hey, was our offense lighting the lamp very much, NO. Did we have a great PP, NO (1 for 7 while NYI went 2 for 5), were we good in the shootout, NO (shooters and goaltending). So relax, he made a mistake, it is not the end of the world.
12345678next ›last »
Share the agony and ecstasy of Habs fandom and read live blogs from every game with Gazette columnist Mike Boone.
Habs Inside/Out main RSS feed