Round 1, Game 6: Bruins have all the momentum
posted by Kevin Mio at 22h01 EST on Apr 19
Things had started well for the Canadiens, who had captain Saku Koivu and Francis Bouillon back in the lineup.
Koivu had two assists in his first game back and Francis Bouillon scored what looked like it could be the game winner 10:04 into the third period for a 3-2 Canadiens' lead.
Christopher Higgins, held pointless during the first five games of the series, came through with the game's first goal. Higgins was back at wing for this game with the return of captain Saku Koivu and Higgins appeared to benefit from that. Higgins added a second goal only seconds after Kessel scored his second of the game to tie the game 4-4 with four minutes left to play.
With the teams playing 4-on-4, Koivu won a faceoff in the Boston zone and Higgins grabbed the puck, fended off Bruins defender Denis Wideman and slipped the puck through Tim Thomas's legs 9:44 into the period.
Tomas Plekanec scored his first goal of the postseason and gave the Canadiens a 2-1 lead at 7:43 in the second period, only moments after he exited the penalty box. Plekanec was sent in alone on Tim Thomas by Steve Bégin and deked Thomas before sliding the puck between Thomas's pad and the goal post.
Plekanec's linemates, Alex Kovalec and Andrei Kostitsyn, have been invisible throughout most of the series and both finished Saturday's game at minus-3.
Montreal was 0-for-4 on the power play, while the Bruins were 0-for-2. The Bruins outshot the Canadiens 36-35.
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Submitted by Smart Dog on Mon, 04/21/2008 - 08:28.
As much as I think there are line-up changes taht are needed with some of the other veterans, I think it's true that the Plekanec line needs to show his teeth this game as does the pp. At least we'll have the line change advantage. This will make or break the game.
________________________________________________________________
- "they crushed us unto oblivion... We were beaten to every play by every guy with every move."
- Claude Julien, April 10, 2008
Submitted by POPS on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 23:07.
You play 82 games in a season to learn, grow, build, and win an advantage physically (having an extra game at home) and mentally (being the higher ranked team). During this 82 game period a team must learns about itself through both wins and losses.The Canadiens have seen it all this year from highs, like the come from behind win versus the Rangers, to lows, like the third period blow-up at home to the Predators.I don't know what the outcome will be tomorrow night but, I can guarantee that this team cares and will give everything they have to win!They have show character all year long.The Bruins have been strong and must be credited but,the main factor in the series has been the Canadiens inability to score on the PP.If the PP is going the Bruins would have to play with more caution and less aggression because they would fear a man-short situation.This has been their advantage.In game 7 it is imperative that the Canadiens capitalize on any early PP opportunities and there will be some.Players like Koivu, Higgins,Plekanec,Kostitsyn, and Kovalev must take charge and drive the puck to the net.I would love to see more movement from the PP,make it more dynamic rather than just standing in one spot and trying to disect the D with a perfect pass.I am not a coach, nor do I pretend to be but, I know this team cares and has cared since game 1 of the season.They have been frustrated and I believe they will put forward an effort that will clearly be their best in this series.Will it be enough to win?Tune in on Monday!
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 18:06.
Let's make a distinction here folks. For people to give some specific thoughts about what they think works and doesn't work is fine and good, and part of what this forum is for - even if it's a little bit offbeat. But for people to trash the team and the coach etc. and ramble on about how we suck, is just a waste of time. Sure some games, or parts of games, we did suck, but the TEAM doesn't suck or we wouldn't be here. The team can be great, fantastic, awesome!!! Like all teams it's not like this all the time but if you're a Habs fan you have to believe that they CAN get that back - or at least hope.
For my money I do question some of the player decisions. I had the same questions and saw the same problems in December and January. It worked for the first game, but with too many of these aging veterans in the line-up who are soft on the play, and very very beatable, we looked soft the last two games. It's these guys as much as anyone who are doing the dump and chase. Many of the young guys actually have a higher standard and are looking for crisp passes and nice set-ups.
I will be interested to see if Breezer is in the line-up. My prediction for game 7:
- If breezer plays, we lose.
- If breezer doesn't play we win.
...not just because of Breezer but because it will show that Carbo knows that we need our most solid players. Breeze isn't one. He's like some sort of aging security blanket. The guys need to throw that away and go out and win it on their own. My question: can Carbo throw the blanket away? Isn't it obvious enough??
________________________________________________________________
- "they crushed us unto oblivion... We were beaten to every play by every guy with every move."
- Claude Julien, April 10, 2008
Submitted by showey47 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 19:12.
I agree, its funny how guys like breezer and dandy were not good enough to be regulers for most of the season. But come playoff time they are some how necessary. I've read all kinds of posts about breezer's and dandy's playoff experience and how it is necessary to have them both in the lineup. Breezer has exceeded expectations with his 4 points, but dandy has been invisible.
Submitted by The Teacher on Mon, 04/21/2008 - 00:05.
Your logic makes perfect sense.
"One face-off, one battle, one shift, one period, one game, one series at a time."
"Are the Habs ready to pay the Price?"
Submitted by J Haul on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 17:57.
If everyone is still looking for answers going into a game 7, we're in way more trouble than I thought (and I think we're in serious trouble).
Submitted by habs country on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 12:46.
the only reason we finished in 1st place, is because we had NO INJURIES!
If we would have had as many injuries as Boston, we don't make the playoffs! Try and understand: CARBO IS NOT A COACH OF THE YEAR. In fact, in my opinion, he's NOT an NHL coach! stick him in the minors for a couple of years, so he can learn. And next year, if we have alot of injuries, no playoffs!
Submitted by The Teacher on Mon, 04/21/2008 - 00:07.
That's you're (you are).
It's not my game, it's "your" game.
"One face-off, one battle, one shift, one period, one game, one series at a time."
"Are the Habs ready to pay the Price?"
Submitted by AlyssaHIGGINS21 (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 12:25.
WHy are we putting down our team?
the coaching staff, the players
yeah we loss but lets just look forward for next
game. Enjoy it. and lets stop putting our team down
Lets Just Focus on Game 7
Do are Die.
All in to win.
Submitted by Habster101 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 12:10.
----We need someone to take out Lucic...
I dont care if its Stewert in game 7, any time Lucic is out...Stewert comes out...just like what that Ranger Dill was doing to the Rocket.
Lucic has put fear into our Defence, they are coughing up the puck and making bad plays because Lucic is running them over...they are not playing with confidence.
Our forwards have to skate back and help out...2 of them are always floating and 1 is a stride behind the B player, hence the Koivu let in...
WHy Oh Why? would Carbo sit Lats, Ryder, and O'Byrne?????????
biggest mistake of the series.
Breeze must be removed instantly, he is light, a feather, Boston knows hes crushable, and when your crushable the puck becomes free for the taking.
I cant believe we are into game 7.......this never should have happened.....
But!!!!!!
I do see a light at the end of the tunnel for monday night...
there is alot of fate involved in this series....lots of charmas built up...alot of superstitions if you will...
first of all, its only fitting that Claude Julien finishes this season with a great fight against his former team, a team that he felt somewhat betrayed by (fired)...coaching battles throughout the season (Kirk Muller), Losing 8 games this season against Montreal. Julien was and is a good coach, he doesn't deserve to be humiliated in a series sweep, 4 games to 1, or even in 6 as we witnessed tonight, but atleast if he loses in game 7, well then thats not to bad, because game 7s can go either way and atleast he gathered his troops and prepared them well for battle, being the major underdogs of the 2008 playoffs...
Montreal is destined to win with Rookie Goalie just like the Past, everythung comes in 3s
there is alot more to add to this but for now,
---- my Prediction for Game 7 --------
I don't know the exact score but it WILL go into overtime...
heart pounding, nerve wrecking....
Montreal Wins in 2nd overtime
maybe 2-1 or 3-2
We need the crowd to be ever so loud from beginning to end...
ignite our players....
Go Habs Go!!!!
This year----Its our Destiny!!!!!
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 11:20.
To quote a fat little Schaefer named Al - "When you win say little , when you lose say less".
Submitted by AlyssaHIGGINS21 (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 10:44.
Whats ever Carbo has up his sleeve for monday
he knows what he's doing.
We can't sit there and judge
cause we're not nhl coachs
especially one who is a candidate for
coach of the year.
let him do what he does best
whoevers in the line up Monday
will be a line up for success
GO HABS GO.
Lets Just Focus on Game 7
Do are Die.
All in to win.
Submitted by New on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 10:49.
How did Carbo suddenly get to be a possible Coach of the year? Is there a ballot somewhere?
I think he does good to answer the Subway unhealthy choice ad correctly 3 out of 6 times.
Submitted by AlyssaHIGGINS21 (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 10:50.
he's been a candidate ever
since his team with more than 10 guys under 25 are on his team
and he managed to pull them to 1st place.
he has good lineups
teachs good plays.
Lets Just Focus on Game 7
Do are Die.
All in to win.
Submitted by New on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 11:07.
So Carbo is responsible for 1st place in the East but he has nothing to do with the playoff meltdown?
Sweet job.
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 13:31.
LOL.
"One face-off, one battle, one shift, one period, one game, one series at a time."
Submitted by habssince1909 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 10:15.
I guess we can analyze all of this until we are blue in the face, fact remains we must stop the dump and chase, and play like we really want it.....seems easier said than done these days. I still believe we can "pull a rabbit out of a hat"....think positively......GO HABS GO....
Submitted by Hoegarden on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 09:42.
It certainly can be done (taking game 7) however the staff has to pick the right bodies.
That Russian Press Report about Markov playing hurts appears to be correct. Andrei is definitely struggling.
In any case, Habs have two or three players with nothing left in the tank. Working harder only works when you can do so. It does bugger all in the press and on TV.
The biggest headache for the team is seeing the Bruins waltz in our zone at will and also their forecheck on the dump and chase. They send in two players and eventually get the puck in the slot. This is not acceptable. Habs are not going to win if they don't solve this puck control in our zone by Boston. Price can only bail the D out so many times. Carbo/Muller/Jarvis have to figure this out today.
Anyways, have faith Habs fans, it can be done. The game is 70% above the shoulders and 30% on the frame. If you don't believe you can win, you don't have a chance.
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 09:37.
From the post game interviews:
CARBO:
"I said before the playoffs started that I was planning to play 28 games, so that hasn't changed..."
You get what you wish for... hopefully at least, though wishing for 7 games against Boston... arghh..
PRICE:
"They were just the hungrier team tonight."
Price knows what he saw. Boston playing playoff hockey while Montreal played dump and chase. You can't really blame Price, the goals we all pretty good. At the very least let's hope Montreal comes to play playoff hockey and not the garbage we watched (from most) last night.
You see how teams fall apart... some players frustrated trying to do too much, others feeling pressure, others getting outhustled... is that what's happening? Or will the Habs find their spirit and kick the Bruins back to Beantown? Don Cherry is sometimes just a clown but he said the plain and simple truth last night: we'll find out who has real character on Monday. I hope it's Hamrlik, Kovy, A Kostitsyn, Streit, Brisebois... and the other guys who looked like wet toast last night.
SD
________________________________________________________________
- "they crushed us unto oblivion... We were beaten to every play by every guy with every move."
- Claude Julien, April 10, 2008
Submitted by imafogdevil on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 09:19.
I think that we need to play with some detirmination and grit, the same as the Bruins are doing. We are trying to beat them with skill, while they pound us on the forecheck and in the corners. We need size and toughness to match their size and toughness. Put in O'Byrne, Lats and Ryder, and remove Streit, SKost (or AKost) and Dandy. And remind the whole so called number one line that this is the playoffs. Sacrifice is necessary. If not, go back to Russia with Perezhogin.
___________________________________________
It can only get better!! Go Ryder, Go Habs!
Submitted by Corio on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 09:13.
It's a sad time in hockey town.. :(
Very disappointed. Bruins have been playing unbelievably well and I think Montreal is somewhat shell shocked because of that..
Submitted by tony d on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 08:53.
I keep reading all these post below about what we need for the next game....the thing that I find ironic is that the biggest 'need' that is repeated is "We need the bell center to be really loud, we need the fans to make a lot of noise" I say B__L-S__T!!! The fans have been loud enough, the support has been very strong, the city has been on fire....we just need a competitive team to show up for 60 min, period!!!
Submitted by C-Dawg on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 10:10.
I agree with a lot of what you've said....but others I differ on my opinion.
First, Boston did just squeek into the playoffs, but that's only because of the injuries they've had and their record early in the year. They've been playing great hockey for the 2nd half of the season, and their record over that span rivals the Habs. They've been playing playoff hockey for months just to make the playoffs, so while the stats say it's #1 versus #8, you actually have 2 very good teams playing each other.
Second, the reason the Habs are struggling is due to a lot of factors coming together. first the injuries...it's forced players out of their comfort zone into roles they don't normally play. Higgins is a prime example. He's been hustling, but it wasn't til last night, playing with the line he's played with most of the year that he looked himself and scored. We have a young team, and while they play well "within their comfort zone" we are finding they don't yet have the experience to play other roles, and not all of our parts are interchangable yet. That will come as the team grows together.
Third the playoffs take the game to a new level, the hits are harder, the refs whistles are put away and there's more clutching and grabbing. It slows down a team like ours which feeds on speed. Boston has been able to take that away from us, and thus take us off our game.
I think the reason Carbo has played the vets over some of the younger more talented players is due to points #2 and 3. They have the experience to adjust to other roles and line mates without looking COMPLETELY out of synch.
Fourth point is injuries. Saku's, Cubes and Komis came at a bad time, not giving us a lot of time to adjust the lines and give them time to acclimate before the playoffs started. Also, I think we have players playing hurt....Markov hasn't looked himself for awhile.
I think Carbo is learning just as the players are, and Gainey is also learning from this. I think we'll see some of our youth traded to bring in more grit for next years run, even if it means giving up speed or talent. With the buzz about Montreal as a team, I doubt Gainey will have as much trouble attracting talent, and I expect we'll see some good new players on the roster. I still think we can expect to see some vets, to lead the way. It wouldn't surprise me to see Smokes and Breezer back next year, but expect Dandy and perhaps Steit to be traded to make way for our young players and FA's that get signed. Ryder will walk at the end of the season and come back to haunt us the way Leclair did, but when the dust settles, we'll be a batter team for next years centennial celebrations, and a step closer to a June parade.
I was excited for the playoffs to start, but was realistic hoping they'd get to the 3rd round. But having watched this, they'll be lucky to win this round. If they play Philly, they can make the 3rd round. If they play the Rangers, they'll see more of the same style that Boston has played and have a hard time of it. The Pens will be exposed the same way, as they are the same style team as we are.
My hope for game 7 is for 60 minutes of effort from every player. Kovy had his hissy fit last night for losing his thunder and the "C" to Koivu and was invisible. If he wants to be one of the leaders of the team, that can't stand. Carbo needs to call him into the office and chew his ass. If we have a full team effort for 60 minutes, I'll be happy, and believe our talent will overcome the B's heart, grit and teamwork that got them to game 7.
Sorry this is so long winded :)
Submitted by Habs-Fan-In-KY on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 07:55.
Didn't see the game, but have just a few sidebars. Stupid Versus caused the center Ice broadcast to be blacked out.
1. If the Bruins win the series, I think you have to give them a lot of credit. We expected them to fall on their own swords after Game 4 and they didn't.
2. The Habs have always played with urgency the past few months. Knowing that this is Game 7 and there isn't "the next game" may actually get them to step it up a bit.
3. I appreciate everything the coaches have done this year, but whoever is speaking to the team at the end of the 2nd period needs to stop!!
4. As other people have stated, this will be a good lesson for our team win or lose for next year's team. But I have to wonder, what are the chances of us pulling off another #1 seed next year. I mean this has been a gift year for us and we are really not taking advantage of it. Hate for it to end this way.
Go Habs Go!!!-------preferably on BOTH sides of the rink
Submitted by smiler2729 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 07:30.
Has anybody seen Andrei Markov?
Submitted by tony d on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 08:31.
he deserves a plate of wings in the press-box on Mon night
Submitted by mrstewart61 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 08:13.
Yes, but I didn't like what I saw.
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My ultimate dream: Captain Saku Koivu skating around the Bell Centre holding the Stanley Cup.
Submitted by G-Man on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 06:36.
This series has been an exercise in futility. First, the Bruins stank. Now, the Habs stink. What a roller coaster. Whatever happens Monday, this has been an eye-opener of a season for the kids wearing the bleu, blanc,et rouge. Carbo and co. have done well to bring the team along this far, despite the 5 million coaches in the greater Montreal area and throughout the world on the web. I wonder when the calls for his head on a platter will start. Oh, yeah, by reading a few of the posts I see his arrest warrant has already been issued.
If winning the Cup was easy, why do 29 teams fail every year? This organization is close and is on its way up. The goal is in sight, don't act like rats and abandon the team when our support on Monday is needed. Be a fan, not a cynic.
Gilbert
Remember '71? Remember '86?
Now is the time to believe. The Drive for 25 is on! Go Habs Go!
Submitted by Laszlo on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 06:16.
We're done. Momentum is everything, and we have zip of it right now.
---
Vive le Bleu, Blanc et Rouge
Submitted by rswinter (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 06:12.
Quick question ... if players like Dandi/Brisbois weren't part of the journey getting the 1 seed ... why the hell are they part of the journey now??? Why are guys like Gravs, OB, Ryder, Latts not perminant?
Heres the best piece of advice ... tomorrow (obviously carbo wont make them practice {he'll just smirk like a baffon})maybe the team can sit down and watch the ENTIRE 8 - 2 victory we had ... and how about we use THAT line up for game 7 since it worked 8 GD TIMES!!!
Submitted by Habsrule1 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 07:30.
Are you kidding me? Brisebois has been one of the best players on the ice for the Habs. Give your head a shake.
Carbo does not need your advice. He's coach of the year!
Please think before you write.
Go Habs Go!!
Habsrule
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 10:03.
your post is exactly why we have been going downhill.
Submitted by Kythehabsfan on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 08:37.
I agree with Breezy playing and getting the minutes he has. But I don't agree with Dandy over Ryder. I have always thought that if you are going to lose you need to lose with your best. IMO, Dandy is not that plus Ryder is always a potential game breaker.
Submitted by showey47 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 08:44.
Its funny how dandy wasn't even part of this teams success for most of the season but now,for some reason its mandatory that he play every game. The same could be said of breezer who only played half the game but atleast he has contributed offensivly. Dandy just skates fast but does nothing else.
Submitted by mrstewart61 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 08:14.
He wasn't great last night, bad positioning, soft, -2.
------------------------------------------------------------
My ultimate dream: Captain Saku Koivu skating around the Bell Centre holding the Stanley Cup.
Submitted by Mill4ever on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 06:03.
I will be a walking ghost until Monday. And if they loose game 7... i don't even wanna go there. At least there is a lesson or two to be learned from this series, i hope Carbo takes notice. Some would think that a coaching staff like this knows a thing or two about how to play defense.
Submitted by smiler2729 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 07:20.
Yeah Carbo, Muller & Jarvis know defense but they're not playing are they? It's up to the players to implement their plans so don't blame the coaching staff!
Submitted by tony d on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 08:35.
agreed, I don't understand how we keep making the same mistakes over and over....when the PP wasn't working, carbo said they would try something new...I looked for it but couldn't see it...must've been a well kept secret...
and today to have no practice AGAIN!!!!
there are so many things that need work, I can't waste an hour listing them
Submitted by linp on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 07:15.
Whether we win or lose the 7th game, this is a very good experience for our young team. I would like to see the following changes:
1. Brisebois and Streit are physically finished. Play O‘Byrne and Latendresse instead. They are our future players anyway.
2. Our 1st PP unit; Koivu, Higgins, Kovy with Markov and S. Kostitsyn on the point.
Submitted by mrstewart61 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 08:14.
Agreed.
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My ultimate dream: Captain Saku Koivu skating around the Bell Centre holding the Stanley Cup.
Submitted by MNaslund26 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 04:37.
habs don't deserve the series.
Submitted by Frank2468 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 02:35.
Don't get me wrong I do hope with all of my heart that our Habs win on Monday. But the way they are playing it doesn't look hopeful. You can't really blame Price. The defense left with out to dry on some of those goals. The offense is better with Koivu back in the lineup. It seems to have woken Higgins up a little. But the second line has done a disappearing act since the start of game four. If you look at the 5th goal the B's got Kovalev had a chance to clear the zone at the blue line and he was weak on the puck. This seems to be the case from game 4 and on. I think the banging and crashing is frustrating him, well what did he expect? If the Habs are going to win on Monday they better change their ways. They better start skating and forcing the Bruins. How about playing the two one two system instead of the one two two. Lets put some pressure on the Bruin defense oh right that requires the guys to actually skate. Even if they should win on Monday I don't like the look of things for the second round. If they are going to continue playing like this, better to give it up and go and play golf with the Leafs. It doesn't make sense to advance to round two like this and be bounced maybe in four in second round. Sorry people but it doesn't look like the boys want it bad enough. It's really sad because they actually looked like they had some promise. Well if the Habs don't go to the conference final I really hope someone knocks out the Briuns and the Pens I can't stand either team. Oh did anyone notice Cherry during the post game show he was smiling and his chest was puffed out like a peacock. This guys just pisses me off he works for CBC and is paid with out tax dollars and backs an American team. He talks about being patriotic and backing and supporting everything Canadian and then supports the Briuns. This guy has still got a pickle stuck up is new know what about the to many men on the ice penalty from 1979. Cherry that was 30 years ago get over it already.
Submitted by VancouverHab on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 02:44.
Come on! Cherry used to COACH the B's! We don't need anti-Americanism -- if it wasn't for the Yanks we'd have a league the equibvalent of the Soccer League!
Are we so insecure that we want Hab boosters on TV? I don't care who Cherry or Cole support -- I'd reather they were honest.
Submitted by Frank2468 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 02:59.
Your right he used to coach the B's but he now works for the CANADIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION. If he wants to support the B's why doesn't he go work for Espn or something. This guys was up for the ward of greatest Canadian. I wonder if he remembers that. He should have been up for greatest turncoat award.
Submitted by smiler2729 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 07:25.
The CBC segment is called "COACH'S CORNER" as in Don Cherry is forever known as the Boston Bruins coach, THAT is his schtick - as the coach of a very, very good Boston team that was constantly being bested in his time by the mighty Habs - DEAL WITH IT! I think he's funny, would you rather it be Scotty Bowman in that seat for the last 20+ years with Maclean rah-rah'ing the Habs every Saturday night?
Submitted by Fabio D on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 02:29.
WTF happened? 3 days ago Habs fans are on cloud 9, one win away from advancing to the second round as expected. After tonight, fighting for their play off lives?? Have they started filming Twilight Zone episodes at the Bell Center and the team has been jinxed??
Finding, letting this series potentially slip through their fingers a little tough to swallow. I'm at a loss for words.
Do or die Monday, so much for getting some rest before the next round, IF they get through.
WOW still shocked....at least the Bell Center crowd had something to cheer about tonight. Way to go GSP!!
Maybe you can hang around and talk to the Habs about putting their minds to winning at all costs, and taking the series 4-3.
Here's hoping the Habs come through for Game 7. They've already over delivered on expectations. Would suck exiting in the first round after proving all the pundits wrong.
Don't get to far ahead of yourselves boys, still have this series and one more before any conference title games.
GO HABS GO.....Pretty Please!!!
Submitted by Habster101 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 02:19.
----We need someone to take out Lucic...
I dont care if its Stewert in game 7, any time Lucic is out...Stewert comes out...just like what that Ranger Dill was doing to the Rocket.
Lucic has put fear into our Defence, they are coughing up the puck and making bad plays because Lucic is running them over...they are not playing with confidence.
Our forwards have to skate back and help out...2 of them are always floating and 1 is a stride behind the B player, hence the Koivu let in...
WHy Oh Why? would Carbo sit Lats, Ryder, and O'Byrne?????????
biggest mistake of the series.
Breeze must be removed instantly, he is light, a feather, Boston knows hes crushable, and when your crushable the puck becomes free for the taking.
I cant believe we are into game 7.......this never should have happened.....
But!!!!!!
I do see a light at the end of the tunnel for monday night...
there is alot of fate involved in this series....lots of charmas built up...alot of superstitions if you will...
first of all, its only fitting that Claude Julien finishes this season with a great fight against his former team, a team that he felt somewhat betrayed by (fired)...coaching battles throughout the season (Kirk Muller), Losing 8 games this season against Montreal. Julien was and is a good coach, he doesn't deserve to be humiliated in a series sweep, 4 games to 1, or even in 6 as we witnessed tonight, but atleast if he loses in game 7, well then thats not to bad, because game 7s can go either way and atleast he gathered his troops and prepared them well for battle, being the major underdogs of the 2008 playoffs...
Montreal is destined to win with Rookie Goalie just like the Past, everythung comes in 3s
there is alot more to add to this but for now,
---- my Prediction for Game 7 --------
I don't know the exact score but it WILL go into overtime...
heart pounding, nerve wrecking....
Montreal Wins in 2nd overtime
maybe 2-1 or 3-2
We need the crowd to be ever so loud from beginning to end...
ignite our players....
Go Habs Go!!!!
This year----Its our Destiny!!!!!
Submitted by mbplekfan on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:45.
Andrei K? Hello? Andrei??
You missed another game.
Submitted by VancouverHab on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:40.
Four goals in the third period???? Two games in a row????
How the Hell do you say this is anything but a total loss of character???
Think about this: there can have been few teams who have had this complete embarassment. This is as bad as the Canucks have ever been. This is very bad: no denying it.
Submitted by smiler2729 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:13.
After reading some of the comments, I almost feel ashamed to be a Habs fan with some of you. So we lose again to Boston and your fingers are all pointed at Gainey, Gillet, Carbo, the European players, puh-leez! How come no one wants to give the Bruins credit?? They are like possessed cockroaches that refuse to lose! They're shutting us down!! They almost deserve to win the series but they won't. Now I'm not one of these who think the Habs have what it takes to go deep into these playoffs, they're too young and inexperienced but hey, kookier things have happened eh? No, this is a great learning experience for these young diverse Habs and Game 7 vs. the Bruins is a gutcheck that I believe they will answer -but- the Canadiens' weaknesses have been finally exposed little by little. It's all up to them, to a man, not the coaches, the GM, the owner, the fans, the media, no, Monday night is their acid test, it's not the winning or losing that I'm worried about, it's whether they gather in the character to compete that will show us and Mr. Gainey and his staff if they truly are a team worth building on.
Submitted by VancouverHab on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:32.
You know, I would ordinarily agree with you, but this is a very bad situation, and the team deserves to be called on it. OK: the Bruins ar eplaying well: question is, why aren;t we playing better? It's (a.) Carbo's job, and (b.) the players responsibility to be playing PLAYOFF HOCKEY in the bloody playoffs. The Bruins are: we aren't. On the fifth goal, in years past, and act like Kovalev would have been punched out by his own team for that soft wussy play that lead to the goal.
In the playoffs you HAVE to make that play 99.9999% of the time. Kovalev just doesn't get it.
Submitted by smiler2729 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 07:27.
Who says they didn't "punch out" Kovalev in the dressing room after the game??
Submitted by mbplekfan on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:12.
There wont be many bruins icing bruises after tonights game. We didnt touch them. Too soft, too passive, no intensity...
Bruin's forwards banged around our D, and the Bruin's D banged around our forwards. We let Boston gain our blue line without laying a finger on them, whereas we have to fight like crazy through the neutral zone.
Streit is probably done here, no grit, no physical presence. Time to bring in a bruiser for that position.
Breezer pulled a breeze by, thanks for showing up.
Dandy was invisible.
Character players also have to be tough. Ours arent.
Why would you play a soft #6 Dman?
Why would you have a Dman on your wing in the playoffs? And x 2?
Tough third and fourth line wingers, and gritty #6 Dmen fill out the roster not soft, bilingual, politically correct roster fills...
Submitted by Big Bird on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:22.
My few cents from the peanut gallery:
(1) After Game 1, we have been outplayed and outhustled by the Bruins. If it wasn't for Carey Price we would have been eliminated already. This is despite him letting in 5 goals in Game 5 and 6. Because there were other games in this series we had no business winning that Price stole for us.
(2) We took Boston for granted and they shoved it in our faces. All season we had a healthy team and strong power-play. Once we lost those elements we see how frail we are and the Bruins exploited it. Our power-play has not only gone cold but given up short-handed chances repeatedly.
(3) Guy Carbonneau is a good coach but he is getting schooled by Claude Julien. Not only does Julien know many of our players and their weaknesses but he has motivation since we canned him for Carbo a few year ago. Carbo learned from last season and improved and will do the same next year. Well at least I hope he does.
(4) Alexei Kovlaev just disappeared tonight. He did so in that critical final game of the season against the Maple Leafs last year. He did so again tonight. He has a shot of redemption on Monday. Otherwise it will be a shame for him to go out like that after such a glorious season.
(5) Our team has battled back from deficits before but I'm not sure anymore. I hope I'm wrong and they come out flying in Game 7. However, it seems after Game 1 the Montreal team that everyone expected not to make the playoffs is the one that showed up. The Montreal team that was glorious in the regular season has all but disappeared.
(6) When Phil Kessel played like crap earlier in the series. Claude Julien had no hesitation sitting him out for 2 games. He put him back in the lineup and the kid has been on fire. Given that Andrei Kostitsyn has 2 points and is a team-leading -4 in 6 games perhaps it's time he sat out and we gave Ryder a chance? You remember him? The guy who scored 30 goals last year? One major motivating factor during the regular season was that whether you are a rookie or veteran, if you play like crap you will be benched. So Mathieu Dandenault has 3 Stanley Cup rings. He has 0 points in 6 games and is -2 for the series. Does he deserve to play?
(7) I realize I might upset Mike Boone but his man Josh Gorges didn't look very solid tonight or for most of the series for that matter. Neither has Mark Streit. If either are injured sit them out. We have O'Byrne and other players ready to go. I think dressing 8 defensemen is foolish.
(8) In terms of lines, perhaps Carbonneau changes it up. Why not put Plekanec, Higgins and A. Kostitsyn (if he must play) together. They did well last year. Then put Koivu, Ryder and Kovalev together. Put together a kid line of Lapierre, Latendresse and S. Kostitsyn. Keep our fourth line of Smolinski, Kostopolous and Begin together. Or do something else because keeping together the Kovalev line is not achieving results.
(9) If they do lost on Monday, I will be very disappointed but not upset. Right now this team should thank their lucky stars there is a Game 7 because from my view in the cheap seats, we don't deserve to be there.
(10) Despite any negativity on my part, I do hope this team plays like they are capable of and shows up for Game 7. 60 minutes are all that is left in their season. As long as they give 110% I won't complain. Leave it all on the ice on Monday night Les Boys.
(Apologies for the long post.)
Submitted by Timo (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 02:00.
Sulemaan, man, you’re breaking my heart
If they lose on monday (as if there is a doubt) i will not be upset either. There is no point to be upset over heartless players and a brain dead coach who don't give a rats a$$. If Habs finished 8th, battled their way back and lost in the decisive game 7, then I'd be upset. But I won't be upset because they gave up. Why should I care about spoiled heartless millionaire bunch who will board first class on Tuesday, April 22 toward some luxury vacation spots to forget all that annoyance such as playoffs and all that nonsense about winning. We must be crazy if we expect them to do that. How silly.
Submitted by Vid on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:42.
You make excellent points and although I am not entirely opposed to your line change suggestions, Higgins, Koivu, S Kostisyn did play excellent offensively. I don't think anybody would want to change that line.
Koivu was on for two Bruins goals but it's pretty obvious it was because he couldn't skate as fast as he's used to. Better communication and positional adjustment should hopefully mitigate future defensive mishaps.
It sounds tempting to bench A. Kostisyn but I dunno. Would Latendresse really step up after a benching? Of course that means instead of A. Kost you'd probably be putting in Dandenault or Streit on the 3rd line. That doesn't exactly look great either. I guess you're right breaking up the first line might be necessary.
Submitted by xeonus on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:04.
So... Game 7. Two wins in a row by the big bad B's, and it seems like the whole Habs world is falling apart with a sense of impending doom. Just as the hunter becomes the hunted, the underdogs become the favorites? Give me a break. I've heard this spiel before: "Habs are going to finish 13th this year" and they finish 1st, "Kovalev is not the player he used to be" and he puts together an MVP season, and "Too inexperienced to do well this season" and the rookies have lead the way. Sure Boston has gone through it's share of troubles and has been the underdog the whole year as well, but in a sense I'm glad we're the underdogs again. They play a whole lot better when they've got something to prove, and on Monday they'll prove that it. Boston has yet to see the Habs with their backs to the wall "a la February 19th style". No fear in this end, they'll take game 7 no sweat.
Submitted by AlyssaHIGGINS21 (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:04.
LBCHASE.
how do you blame a guy
who's not the one playing
not the one working his heart out to win
not one individual person is too blame.
the whole club is too blame
when the the team wins
the whole club wins
when the team looses
the whole club looses
Submitted by AlyssaHIGGINS21 (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 00:58.
give it up hab-professor
latendresse is not a good player
shouldnt be in the nhl
he hessitates to hit = hitting soft
cant skate FOR HIS life hes super slow. and just clears the puck evertime he gets it cause thats all he does
Lets Just Focus on Game 7
Do are Die.
All in to win.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 10:13.
Latron has size and hits hard, where have you been?
you sound like a Boston Fan, I see you'd love it if the habs keep all the weak small players in the lineup.
we are playing a physical team, haven't you noticed.
anyone over 6' & 200lbs needs to be in the lineup (only exception Boulion who plays well over his size)
Submitted by AlyssaHIGGINS21 (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 10:37.
latendresse gives like 2 hits a game
and im not a boston fan i dont sound like one
i just dont think that latendresse a guy
who should be in the nhl.
He cant skate for one, 2 he only dumbs the puck in
granted he can pass sometimes but sometimes isnt enough in the nhl.
Lets Just Focus on Game 7
Do are Die.
All in to win.
Submitted by showey47 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:29.
so, george gillett is part of the blame? The guy pays the bills, nothing more. He doesn't make player personel decisions or tell gainey how to run the team but somehow this is partly his fault? Gainey is also to blame? Gainey is the only reason we are a competitive team today and you say he is to blame? Have you ever played hockey in your life? This game was lost with endless missed ON-ICE assignments. Every goal was a result of someone not doing their job in their own end.
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:53.
LOL, that much is true ;)
"One face-off, one battle, one shift, one period, one game, one series at a time."
Submitted by AlyssaHIGGINS21 (not verified) on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:00.
Waht did you want him to do
who did you want him to get?
hossa
yeah . give 4 players for hossa and a goalie when we were set for goalies..
yep he sure missed out on a good chance
Submitted by showey47 on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:36.
foote was acquired for a first round pick and another high pick on condition if he resigned with the avs. You call that almost nothing? Hal "no skill" gill? Was acquired for a 3rd rounder. First of all do you think he would ever get traded from the leafs to that habs? How does hal gill improve the habs? The guy skates at the speed of smell and takes alot of lazy penalties becase of it. Thank god you don't make the decisions on this team, we would be the laffs in no time.
Submitted by habs country on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 00:54.
In the history of the Montreal Canadiens, no habs team has ever lost a series, when leading 3 games to 1. their record: 26-0. Well I guess all streaks end sometime, like Monday. Pity that we couldn't put away a team, with a 3 games to 1 lead. Shows what little heart and softness this team really has. I guess it's time to revamp this team, and start over.
Submitted by idle on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 00:35.
Is anyone else having a problem with the spam filter? Some of my posts that have nothing in them that might be confused as spam are being blocked.
Submitted by Vid on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 01:53.
I would put Ryder and O'Byrne back in for game 7 for sure. I'm on the fence as to whether Latendresse should play because he has been invisible and so far a -3.
As for who to bench, that's a tough one. I'd understand benching Brisebois but he has done quite a lot offensively and could redeem himself. Dandenault is a -2 but even the last game. He seems to have been otherwise a non-factor. Streit has been struggling but he is still one of our top offensive D on the pp even if our pp is non-existent. Gorges has also not looked great. Although Bouillon scored a goal on a lucky deflection off a Bruins' stick he was totally undressed by Kessel on that goal.
I would bench Dandenault, Streit and put in Latendresse. It's a toss up between Bouillon and Gorges for me.
Keep Koivu line intact and have Ryder on the 3rd line or...not that I would encourage line juggling but maybe try Ryder with Plekanec & Kovalev on LW for a shift or two? If only to maybe give A. Kositsyn a wakeup call.
However, the most important changes that needs to be made are in team strategy and overall effort of the majority of players.
If we're going to dump and chase let's at least have a guy racing in at full speed to get the puck. It seems we would always dump as a plan B when we couldn't carry it in. Even then we didn't do a good job of simply getting the puck deep in the zone. Less cross ice passes and more shooting. Stop the long passes from our own zone please, I don't know if it's because the D are reacting slowly to loose pucks or our forwards are too far up ice and don't back check but this must be fixed because it led to so many turnovers and giveaways by our D last game.
It's almost baffling to me how much better the Bruins having been playing than us simply through better work ethic. We've been playing lazy for several games now. Skate faster, work harder and get to those pucks first. Players please support each other and communicate rather than staring at each other thinking "well aren't you going to get the puck?"
All I can think of to say is for the players to follow Koivu's example (minus the two Bruins' goals he was on the ice for) when it comes to effort and play.
Submitted by HABSfan_inAB on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 00:28.
What's with the anti-European comments? I thought Habs fans would be a tad more intelligent and classy then to be so prejudiced
Submitted by idle on Sun, 04/20/2008 - 00:32.
In fairness not everyone posting tonight is a fan. At least a couple of them are now cheering for the Bruins and still others have just given up.
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