Game Thread: Habs Look For Fifth Straight Win

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 6:02 PM EST in Habs Game Threads

Carolina Hurricanes at Montreal Canadiens, Feb 13, 2012 7:30 PM EST

The Montreal Canadiens are on the verge of a 5 game winning streak for the first time this season, and have a legitimate shot at it as the lowly Carolina Hurricanes come to visit.

Montreal has defeated the Hurricanes in both meetings this season and are 7-3 against the Canes the last 3 seasons.

Carolina is having a similar nightmare season to Montreal, also backstopped by their top end goaltender in Cam Ward. Ward isn't having a banner year, but he's under siege every night behind Carolina's weak defensive corps and young forwards. Despite this, Ward owns the distinction of being the only goaltender in the NHL to have recorded all of his team's wins.

The Hurricanes have been hurt by several players failing to meet expectations of GM Jim Rutherford, chief among them Tomas Kaberle, who was traded to Montreal after being used poorly in Carolina and not fitting in. Other major disappointments in Carolina include Zac Dalpe, who was supposed to take a top 6 forward role, and Anthony Stewart, who was recently waived in an attempt to shed his contract.

Similarly disappointing has been Eric Staal, who has struggled to produce offense without his buddy Erik Cole, who's thriving in Montreal.

Travis Moen, Yannick Weber, Andrei Markov, Brian Gionta, Mike Blunden and Petteri Nokelainen make up the injured list for the Habs. Ryan White and Ian Schultz have been called up from Hamilton but it's unclear whether or not they'll play.

Carolina is missing their top defenseman as well in Joni Pitkanen, as well as backup goalie Brian Boucher.

MONTREAL CANADIENS PROJECTED LINEUP

Forwards

Mathieu Darche - Tomas Plekanec - Rene Bourque

Max Pacioretty - David Desharnais - Erik Cole

Aaron Palushaj - Lars Eller - Louis Leblanc

[double shift] - Scott Gomez - Andrei Kostitsyn

Defensemen

Josh Gorges - P.K. Subban

Tomas Kaberle - Alexei Emelin

Hal Gill - Chris Campoli

Raphael Diaz

Goalies

Carey Price - Peter Budaj

CAROLINA HURRICANES PROJECTED LINEUP

Forwards

Jiri Tlusty - Eric Staal - Tuomo Ruutu

Jeff Skinner - Jussi Jokinen - Chad LaRose

Andreas Nodl - Brandon Sutter - Patrick Dwyer

Jerome Samson - Tim Brent - Anthony Stewart

Defensemen

Tim Gleason - Bryan Allen

Jay Harrison - Justin Faulk

Jaroslav Spacek - Jamie McBain

Goalies

Cam Ward - Justin Peters

Hurricanes vs Canadiens coverage

Hurricanes vs Canadiens preview

View from the other side at Canes Country

Tweet Comment 337 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

Chris Boucher's analysis of Josh Gorges

http://www.boucherscouting.com/2012/02/josh-gorges-by-numbers.html

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 6:57 PM EST reply actions

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/globe-on-hockey/reality-check-in-habsland/article2336582/

If you are going to state luck as a reason for recent success, don’t you need to be consistent when the luck is bad?

If you want 30 tweets a day, don't follow me. @ChrisBoyle33

by Chris Boyle on Feb 13, 2012 7:14 PM EST reply actions

Agreed

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 7:17 PM EST up reply actions

But bad luck is never a factor because you never give up, put your head down, and power through /narrative.

by Roke on Feb 13, 2012 7:21 PM EST up reply actions

Cherry picking as usual. If he was intellectually honest, the funny thing is most of us would agree with that premise.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:22 PM EST up reply actions

Well this isn’t new.

If the Habs lose, they played a better team, and it would have been worse if it weren’t for Price. It’s never luck.
If the Habs win narrowly, they got lucky, they played a better team, they’re lucky, and Price saved their asses.
If the Habs win by a big margin, they got lucky, the other team took them lightly/had a bad night, and Price saved their asses anyway.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 7:36 PM EST up reply actions

Don’t forget: if they lose by one, it’s because they’re not clutch. If they win by one, they were hanging on for dear life.

by Alexandre S on Feb 13, 2012 7:47 PM EST up reply actions

That’s a pretty weak roster Carolina is bringing. There’s a reason they haven’t done well.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 7:29 PM EST reply actions

Yeah I’m not sure why Rutherford is considered a great GM. He lucked into one cup with every team he played against suffering devastating injuries, and Carolina has never been a consistent power.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:32 PM EST up reply actions

Huge money constraints though.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 7:34 PM EST up reply actions

So we hear now. But whenever they talk about successful, money-making American franchises Carolina is near the top of the list.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:36 PM EST up reply actions

Carolina is a surprisingly successful team given where they’re located, and what team they used to be.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:38 PM EST up reply actions

They alternate good seasons and lottery level seasons. They have a solid fan base but I wouldn’t say they’re managed well.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:41 PM EST up reply actions

Neither would I, which is why I find it how financially successful they are.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:43 PM EST up reply actions

Pretty impressive fiscally no doubt.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:56 PM EST up reply actions

Wasn’t that the year Saku got his eye cut?

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:35 PM EST up reply actions

Yeap.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:35 PM EST up reply actions

Heh. We had their number in that series too.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:37 PM EST up reply actions

Especially Gerber’s number.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:42 PM EST up reply actions

It was telling me to me that Carolina managed to miss the playoffs outright two straight years before and two straight years after their Cup.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 7:37 PM EST up reply actions

I still think that was the luckiest cup win of my lifetime.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:43 PM EST up reply actions

Tampa Bay won because of a bad call in Game 6. I’d say that’s pretty lucky.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:45 PM EST up reply actions

That is also pretty damn lucky, but there was a whole other game to play that they could have lost.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:53 PM EST up reply actions

Moen being hurt again will certainly dispell any trade talk.

That said, Gauthier is at the Caps/Sharks gamr

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 7:30 PM EST reply actions

No surprise

White and Schultz get the night off

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 7:32 PM EST reply actions

Do we have enough Toughness™ without them?

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 7:40 PM EST up reply actions

Oh thank God!

Mike Johnson doing colour for TSN

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 7:34 PM EST reply actions

I was about to say the same. My 5 game hiatus in watching the games due to other commitments at least co-incides with him.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 7:35 PM EST up reply actions

No Bobby Dollas!

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:37 PM EST up reply actions

Spacek

Kind of a dick comment, even if it’s a joke.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:35 PM EST reply actions

If it was anyone but Spacek, I’d agree, but he’s the kinda guy that gets away with it. He’s always been the funniest Hab in recent years.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:36 PM EST up reply actions

I missed it. John Lu’s suit distorted my other senses for a moment.

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 7:38 PM EST up reply actions

It’d be more funny if his team wasn’t even more brutal.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:40 PM EST up reply actions

Does anyone else think Eller looks like he’s about 17? He needs a Viking beard posthaste.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:41 PM EST reply actions

I’m not sure he can grow anything but peach fuzz!

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:44 PM EST up reply actions

Could see that coming.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:45 PM EST reply actions

What the hell is Bourque doing there? Coasting into the zone?

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:45 PM EST reply actions

Being defensively irresponsible.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:45 PM EST up reply actions

nah

he was just saving his energy for his offensive contributions.

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 7:46 PM EST up reply actions

If he ever scored on one of those breakaways it would make a lick of sense.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:48 PM EST up reply actions

ah, so now it's about results and not process?

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 7:48 PM EST up reply actions

If you’re going to basically put your team on the PK because you’re too selfish to play defense, I want some results.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:49 PM EST up reply actions

Boucher's first analysis

has Bourque’s risk/reward at significantly better than Cammi’s.

The latest results don’t break it down by zone (as I alluded to last game thread) so I’m not sure how much Bourque has slipped in the interim.

I’ve appreciated Bourque’s work in his own end so far, even if in this case he messed up.

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 7:56 PM EST up reply actions

Watching him closely I find him far too lackadaisical in the defensive zone, and he can’t clear the zone to save his life.

Remember that the first time Bourque’s risk/reward was posted he had played only a couple games. The longer he’s played the worse he’s been.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:59 PM EST up reply actions

Well at least he was in the vicinity of the defensive zone, a place where the guy they traded to get him seldom did anything.

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 7:47 PM EST up reply actions

Cammalleri’s defensive numbers are far superior to Bourque’s.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:48 PM EST up reply actions

where's the best place to get that info?

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 7:49 PM EST up reply actions

Boucherscouting.com

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:50 PM EST up reply actions

Right now the only roster player with a lower risk/reward rating than Bourque is Blunden. Not impressive.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:50 PM EST up reply actions

I heard Cammalleri was moving back to centre. Surprised Jacques Martin never tried him there.

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:15 PM EST up reply actions

Leblanc and Eller manage some sustained pressure.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:52 PM EST reply actions

We’re playing arguably the worst club in the league and AFAICT, we’re getting roundly thrashed.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 7:54 PM EST reply actions

The singing out Cunneyworth’s praises began a bit early.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:57 PM EST up reply actions

And Bourque takes a terrible offensive zone penalty. Great.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 7:56 PM EST reply actions

Bourque unsatisfied with causing a goal against with laziness takes a great offensive zone penalty.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:56 PM EST reply actions

So, pure salary dump?

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 7:57 PM EST up reply actions

Cammalleri, or what we’ll have to do with Bourque in a year or two?

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 7:59 PM EST up reply actions

Cammy.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:00 PM EST up reply actions

2nd round pick I guess. Maybe we’ll hit a homerun on it.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:01 PM EST up reply actions

Subban 2.0

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:11 PM EST up reply actions

If that happens the trade is totally worth it.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:12 PM EST up reply actions

Maybe not someone as good as Subban but Timmins is very good at finding gems. Go get Jordan Subban and Mads Eller.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:17 PM EST up reply actions

I’d say Jordan is going to be a high 1st round pick but Mads Eller I’m not sure where he’s rated.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:18 PM EST up reply actions

That’s pretty hard to say. I think you’re right about Subban but it’s still more than a year away.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:26 PM EST up reply actions

It’s always risky to guess anything about 16 year olds, which is why I always laugh when people suggest tanking for Nathan Mackinnon. At 16 Angelo Esposito was set to be a perennial all star according to some.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:28 PM EST up reply actions

I’d rather draft a big forward. We already have pretty substantial defense.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:17 PM EST up reply actions

Always depends on who’s on board. Seems like Timmins tends to go D over F when it’s close.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:22 PM EST up reply actions

McDonald's

They have Upper Deck Habs cards in Montreal this season.

Road trip!

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 7:59 PM EST reply actions

Why is DD killing penalties?

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:00 PM EST reply actions

Better question is why Bourque is.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:03 PM EST up reply actions

He’s done it before but that’s also a good question.

Apparently, DD kills penalties when Bourque is in the box.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:04 PM EST up reply actions

Don’t they have anyone else over those two for that. I know Moen’s hurt but I’d probably prefer slowly giving Leblanc some PK duties over Bourque or DD.

Also, we look terrible.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:08 PM EST up reply actions

This is not starting well at all

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 8:01 PM EST reply actions

Terrible, terrible call. Clean hit by Emelin.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:02 PM EST reply actions

Shot attempts

19-9 in the first 13 minutes.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:02 PM EST reply actions

I think they had 3 or four in the last seconds of their last power play

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:03 PM EST up reply actions

I want to ask who’s who, but I already know. :(

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:03 PM EST up reply actions

I should have clarified but yeah, we’re getting shredded.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:04 PM EST up reply actions

Let’s hope the PK sucks less this time.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:02 PM EST reply actions

Booing Spacek? Seriously?

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:05 PM EST reply actions

Five Habs giveaways and 3 Carolina takeaways

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:08 PM EST reply actions

Long passes again.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:11 PM EST reply actions

Well, how does Randy adjust?

Here’s my suggestion: find a way to generate something approaching a transition game.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:12 PM EST reply actions

Nahhhhhh have everyone cherry pick and try to nail one of those near impossible long passes instead.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:14 PM EST up reply actions

Could work, provided Price is making the passes.

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:15 PM EST up reply actions

Randy?
Adjust?
How many games did it take him to realise Plekanec was the no1 center again?

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:18 PM EST up reply actions

Love the Bourque BashWatch™.

The good ol’ ignore the good, orgasm over the bad.

Almost as much as I love the trade.

And I LOVE the trade.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 8:16 PM EST reply actions

See anything good he is doing tonight you want to point out?

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:17 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions

He had a great first minute.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 8:50 PM EST up reply actions

when cole

makes that rush, posters here gush, regardless of whether or not it ends up in the back of the net.

I think this is the kind of thing that gets my hackles up

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 8:53 PM EST up reply actions

Because he does it better than almost anyone else in the league, and almost always creates a chance doing it.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:54 PM EST up reply actions

a form of special pleading

is not convincing me that there isn’t a bias here.

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 8:55 PM EST up reply actions

Plenty.

Also seeing plenty of Habs dropping the ball all over the place.

Difference is, they aren’t subject to an agenda.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 8:18 PM EST reply actions

+1

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 8:19 PM EST up reply actions

The Habs are being pretty horrible in general tonight, but Bourque has failed to impress following an early stint where we thought he might be a killer tough minutes forward.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:20 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions

He’s known as inconsistant. He’ll probably look like a killer tough minutes foward for stretches.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:24 PM EST up reply actions

He didn’t do that much in the first. Let’s see how he does in the second.

I looked back a few games for his chance numbers and they’re hit-or-miss. He’s playing Plekanec minutes, that’s not exactly easy sailing.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:27 PM EST up reply actions

He’s failed to impress you. I understand that. Good thing you’re not a Flames fan, cause your disappointment level would be even higher.

Lots of Habs have failed to impress me this season. I could write you a shopping list of grievances for half the players on the ice tonight.

You’ll forgive me if the pack feeding frenzy surrounding Bourque – borne of disgruntlement over the trade – has me thinking it’s a confirmation bias circle jerk.

People are presumably free to post what they want.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 8:27 PM EST up reply actions

The same could be said of any effusive praise given to Bourque over plays that aren’t necessarily great. At the end of the day anything any player does is going to be criticized. Bourque more so because he’s been billed as being better defensively than Cammalleri but has given every reason to believe he’s actually worse defensively.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:30 PM EST up reply actions

If Bourque has received effusive praise around here, I missed it. On a night of relative heroics, he’s given the “maybe I was wrong about him” treatment.

The guy works a hell of a lot harder than the overpaid, one-dimensional cherry picker who was shipped out. He’s got great speed, goes into traffic, and demonstrates opportunism. His backcheck is hardly as lazy as has been suggested.

He also fecks up like every other player on the ice.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 8:44 PM EST up reply actions

Works harder? Could not disagree more.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:47 PM EST up reply actions

You need to go to more games.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 8:51 PM EST up reply actions

Presumably, but I’d like to know exactly what you like in his game. This is an honest question; I’d love to have cause to like Bourque. I don’t actually have an agenda. I really wanted to believe he’d be a tough-minutes two-way winger, which would be a better fit as Plekanec’s linemate than Cammalleri, but I’m not seeing it.

To my eye he seems to have trouble controlling the puck and winning board battles (which may be a side effect of me isolating him in his first game post-trade and should be taken with a grain of salt). I’m not hot on his positioning either. His chance numbers have been all over the place (playing alongside Plekanec much of the time though). We ought to isolate his micros but I doubt they look good (mind you I doubt anyone’s does right now).

He’s got good speed, he can protect the puck along the boards when he has it, he has a good shot.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:32 PM EST up reply actions

Tonight’s first period aside, I’ve like his tracking back into the D-zone and the fact that he’s actually in position along the boards for the pass from the dman to get the puck out. I like the physicality he brings to the line and his willingness to bull rush the blue paint when there’s a lose puck, regardless of whether or not there’s a defender there.

I like these things, but will wait for a larger sample size to see if they bear fruit.

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 8:36 PM EST up reply actions

I’ll watch for these things. I liked his pass across to Emelin.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:39 PM EST up reply actions

Emelin

Had a horrible period. -6 Fenwick, -10 Corsi. The next worse player is Diaz at -4 in each measure.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:26 PM EST reply actions

Dominic Moore

Fined $2500 for an interference call. I don’t know guys but plays like that happen a lot. If Fedetenko doesn’t have his stick up, he wouldn’t have got hurt.

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:30 PM EST reply actions

cam ward is not this good

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 8:32 PM EST reply actions

Yeah he is.

If you want 30 tweets a day, don't follow me. @ChrisBoyle33

by Chris Boyle on Feb 14, 2012 10:10 AM EST up reply actions

Head shot?

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:34 PM EST reply actions

TSN didn’t show a replay. Focused more on Cole falling behind the Habs net

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:37 PM EST up reply actions

rds had it

definitely elbow contact to back of the head. But Staal’s great at making things look accidental/incidental… just ask Markov.

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 8:38 PM EST up reply actions

Yeah I just went back and looked at it. Could be a case there for Shanny

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:45 PM EST up reply actions

Subban gets a penalty for playing defense. I guess he should have just given up body position.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:35 PM EST reply actions

They’ll call that pretty much every time

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:36 PM EST up reply actions

For maintaining body position and blocking out? That’s a load of crap.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:38 PM EST up reply actions

It was fine until PK tied up the Canes player’s arm.

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:45 PM EST up reply actions

He didn’t. Check your PVR. He held out his arm to block him out and the Canes player fell over.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:46 PM EST up reply actions

You know what this season really needs, just for giggles? Plekanec getting a concussion.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:35 PM EST reply actions

Long pass, Canes have the puck. Long pass, Canes have the puck. Long pass, Canes have the puck.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:39 PM EST reply actions

Staal’s shot on Plekanec was pretty blatant.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:40 PM EST reply actions

absolutely agree

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 8:41 PM EST up reply actions

Agreed. Obviously elbow pick.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:42 PM EST up reply actions

TSN called it a “fly by elbow to the back of the head”.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:42 PM EST up reply actions

A description that would result in an obvious suspension in most situations.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:45 PM EST up reply actions

Mike Johnson, I like you but trading Desharnais for Skinner is one I’ll take every single time.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:42 PM EST reply actions

What the hell did DD get called for?

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:42 PM EST reply actions

Roughing, I’m guessing.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:43 PM EST up reply actions

Pacioretty clearly tripped but no call.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:42 PM EST reply actions

DD and Skinner? That’s a WTF moment.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:42 PM EST reply actions

Diaz does the exact same thing a Can did to Pacioretty but it’s actually a penalty this time.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:43 PM EST reply actions

Fuck you Spacek.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:45 PM EST reply actions

Not once did he ever score a goal like that for Montreal.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:46 PM EST up reply actions

wtf

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 8:46 PM EST reply actions

Are you kidding me?

Spacek?

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:46 PM EST reply actions

How many times did he pinch as a Habs and get caught? Tonight he gets away with that!

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:47 PM EST up reply actions

Spacek. Fuck.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:47 PM EST reply actions

Blown coverage, and Spacek makes his night…fuck.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 8:48 PM EST reply actions

Carolina has led the league in power play opportunities for every season since 2007-2008.

They were 2nd in 2006-2007, 3rd in 2006-2006.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:50 PM EST reply actions

Huh

So it’s not confirmation bias that they always get favourable calls.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:51 PM EST up reply actions

That’s crazy.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:51 PM EST up reply actions

It’s a talent.

Whether that talent is drawing penalties or diving is left as an exercise to the reader. ;)

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:52 PM EST up reply actions

Well from what I’ve seen… ;)

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:54 PM EST up reply actions

New Jersey is also the least penalized team since the lockout, despite rules being crafted specifically to limit their exact playing style. I wouldn’t call it a talent, it’s just officiating bias.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:57 PM EST up reply actions

Certain teams get away with certain calls continually.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:57 PM EST up reply actions

Nice take by Pleks…everyone thought pass.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 8:52 PM EST reply actions

I was about to bitch about him not passing.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:52 PM EST up reply actions

I know…the guy’s such a glory hog around the net.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 8:54 PM EST up reply actions

Except Plekanec, who realized it was BOurque…lol

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:52 PM EST up reply actions

Dude, I think that’s what JD is talking about. :P

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:53 PM EST up reply actions

Plekanec!

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:52 PM EST reply actions

Mike Johnson pointed out score effects on shots.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 8:53 PM EST reply actions

Yep, noticed.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:54 PM EST up reply actions

You must be in love, he also brought up sample sizes.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:25 PM EST up reply actions

He’s going to keep getting bigger over the next few years. He’s the best colour guy in Canada already.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:58 PM EST up reply actions

Tlusty bowls Price and no call

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 8:56 PM EST reply actions

I tuned in late, but the refs got to start calling the silly stuff. There’s all sorts of little trips, butt-ends and spears going on.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 8:57 PM EST up reply actions

Okay, did anyone notice how long it took to call Skinner when he was literally hanging off Subban’s arm?

You could almost tell he didn’t want to make the call.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:57 PM EST reply actions

Oh excuse me, he didn’t call the hold. He called the high stick. Fucking shit.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 8:58 PM EST up reply actions

Maybe Subban needs to show more respect to a star player like Skinner.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:59 PM EST up reply actions

Impressive forecheck by Bourque a bit earlier.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 8:58 PM EST reply actions

he just did it again.

I’d like it if he could use that speed a little more often

by subdoxastic on Feb 13, 2012 9:06 PM EST up reply actions

I hope Randy recognizes that the ‘canes are really putting pressure on our D. They’re being forced to turn every time they go into our end, and its obvious the refs are going to let the forwards do some holding. We’re going to get burned if this keeps up.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 8:58 PM EST reply actions

Erik F. Cole.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 8:59 PM EST reply actions

No f. kidding. Cole’s got eight PP goals on a terrible PP. That’s amazing.

And wow, a friend of mine said that was straight up Kovelevian with the deke and the wrist.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:01 PM EST up reply actions

Kovalevian indeed.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:02 PM EST up reply actions

Very nice Mr. Cole. Very nice.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 8:59 PM EST reply actions

Absolutely crazy puck protection work by PK to draw the call there.

Cole!!!!!! Players scoring against their old teams.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 8:59 PM EST reply actions

Also Kaberle gets an assist.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 9:03 PM EST up reply actions

Good zone entry, good chances, good pp goals.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:00 PM EST reply actions

Woot! That was Kovalevish!

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:00 PM EST reply actions

Hah! A friend o mine just said the same, and I just posted it.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:01 PM EST up reply actions

of* Damn the no edit.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:02 PM EST up reply actions

Wow, what a snipe! Cole loves that cornere.

Lots of room on Main St. The Canes may as well have been tossing palm fronds on the ice.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 9:01 PM EST reply actions

Four PP goals in last 12? chances?

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 9:01 PM EST reply actions

They seem to have more or less gone back to Martin’s one-side overload. No inverted shooters this time though.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:02 PM EST up reply actions

That cycle play by Eller and Leblanc was pretty.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:02 PM EST reply actions

HOLY CRAP

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:04 PM EST reply actions

GOALS!!!1

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 9:04 PM EST up reply actions

DD!!!! 2 PP goals!

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 9:04 PM EST reply actions

Since when do we have a powerplay?

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:04 PM EST reply actions

About four games or so?

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:05 PM EST up reply actions

We’re really going to get some great luck and finish 9th aren’t we?

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:06 PM EST up reply actions

Is Mats Sundin at this game?

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:05 PM EST reply actions

Kaberle won’t get an assist, but he made that happen.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:05 PM EST reply actions

Close the backdoor option. We’re going to get burned defensively if this keeps up.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 9:05 PM EST reply actions

Two PP goals in one game??

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 9:06 PM EST reply actions

When was the last time that happened?

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:06 PM EST up reply actions

See this is what annoys me about Bourque — he fans on the clear, loses the battle on the boards, and the Canes gain possession and get a chance.

Maybe it’s bias seeing this happen often.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:07 PM EST reply actions

His play reminds me more of Kostitsyn than the two way player he’s billed as.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:08 PM EST up reply actions

AK was always underrated on defense so this may not be a bad thing.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:11 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions

There was however a massive improvement after 1 year of Martin.

Plus before then he was usually playing with Plekanec the defensive ace so his numbers could be skewed by that.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:15 PM EST up reply actions

Overall yes, but prone to stupid decisions and flubbing zone clearances, that’s why I make the comparison.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:19 PM EST up reply actions

He’s not the only one guilty tonight though. The ’Canes are doing quick dumps, getting the puck, and going to the weak-side shot. Our wingers need to be coming back quick to help the D.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 9:08 PM EST up reply actions

He also had a good sequence of throwing off Staal’s check followed by almost destroying Tlusty.

I’m taking up JD_’s challange to look for positives too. Easier for me because I was a bit more inclined to view him favourably going into this game.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:10 PM EST up reply actions

Wasn’t going to comment on that play – I don’t want to start some Bourque tug-o-war and I’m hardly a preacher – but after losing control of the puck in the o-zone, Bourque hustled out, creamed a Cane just outside the blue line, and retrieved it.

It’s not about Bourque

Just balance.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 9:21 PM EST up reply actions

Muller’s not a fool, and he knows our team pretty well. He knows our D has above-average puck skills, so they’re dumping it in well before the blue line, and hustling in. Then it goes back to the point for a shot, or a slap-pass to the weak side.

They know they’re not going to beat Price the way Toronto tried to- steaming through the middle and firing it through the D on net. We’ll either block it, clear it, or pick off the pass. Our forwards need to be strong coming back, and especially watch for the tap in on Price’s weak side.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 9:24 PM EST up reply actions

That being said, I’m not going to shit on 3 unanswered goals ;)

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 9:25 PM EST up reply actions

I thought going out of that trade that we’re going to have do just live with a wide range play from brilliance to dunce-cap from Bourque in the hopes that it averages out to the good.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:28 PM EST up reply actions

Just me

or has Habs success of late relied on special teams and goaltending?

Hmmm seems like they had a coach who preached that philosophy,

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 9:08 PM EST reply actions

Gosh darn, that sounds awfully familiar!

But to be fair, we’ve been a pretty solid 5-on-5 team for big chunks of the season. If we had a functioning PP at before JM was fired, we’d have been a top 4 team in the east.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:09 PM EST up reply actions

Habs were 7th in 5 on 5 on Sunday, I believe (3rd in the East)

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 9:11 PM EST up reply actions

Yeah, I know. We were top ten for all of JM’s tenure, then dropped for a while, and sprang up again recently. It’s promising.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:14 PM EST up reply actions

Subban

With a great block at the end there.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:08 PM EST reply actions

I have some very NSFW and possibly offensive things to say about how beautiful those two powerplays were.

Although Carolina’s PK was brutal also. So much time and space .

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:08 PM EST reply actions

Not every PK can be like the Habs’.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:12 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions

I was just thinking that actually.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:13 PM EST up reply actions

Those that can rewind should go back to 3:40 in the 2nd. Leblanc and Eller had a Sedin-like cycle play going on.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:14 PM EST reply actions

I just went back. That was beautiful. Completely set himself up for that chance.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:16 PM EST up reply actions

They have really great chemistry together. Probably helped by how similar their games are.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 9:19 PM EST up reply actions

Like I’ve said in my pre-season right up on Leblanc, he does about equally well in almost everything but he is beastly along the boards. Eller is also great there. Those two and one of Bouque/Kostitsyn would make a great 2/3 line next year.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:24 PM EST up reply actions

Habs actually brought ES possession back to even that period.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:14 PM EST reply actions

To all those that think I don’t have sufficient regard for the Desharnais line due to looking at context:

There hasn’t been a Habs line that functioned as such a well-oiled machine in the offensive zone in a while. Maybe Cammalleri-Plekanec-Kostitsyn and Pacioretty-Gomez-Gionta did similarly at points but we really have to look to Kostitsyn-Plekanec-Kovalev to see another line with as good aesthetics.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:22 PM EST reply actions

How much of that is due to chemistry though, and how much is due to Pacioretty and Cole being the two best wingers this team has had in a decade?

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:24 PM EST up reply actions

Best two wingers that also have good chemistry with eachother as well.

Desharnais does however have to ability to make plays that look very nice, which is a bit separate from the effectiveness conversation.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:30 PM EST up reply actions

He’s a talented playmaker, but is he appreciably better than Eller or Plekanec? I don’t think he is. He certainly gets more opportunity.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:38 PM EST up reply actions

The compelling thing about it is I suspect DD would really struggle with any other linemates, much as Andrew’s piece earlier today sorta highlights. It’s a great way to yield results from the asset, without feeling it necessary to give them a stronger center, thus weakening another line.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 9:25 PM EST up reply actions

Of course, come the summer of 2013, it could become a contentious issue.

Puck Worlds: Chasing Pucks from here to Turku.

For Twitter Updates on Puck Worlds, follow @puckworlds. For updates plus additional witty banter from yours truly, follow @saskhab.

by Bruce Peter on Feb 13, 2012 9:26 PM EST up reply actions

I saw someone on reddit a few weeks ago say we should sign Desharnais for 5M/season for 5 years. That kind of talk will reign if he stays with those two the next year and a bit.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:28 PM EST up reply actions

I’d stick him between two 4th liners for the latter half of that season and sharply temper his expectations.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 9:29 PM EST up reply actions

Haha, but if you’re giving him 4th line competition he might end up looking just as good!

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:30 PM EST up reply actions

The line is sort of a poor man’s version of the old West Coast Express line: Naslund and Bertuzzi flanking Morrison. Morrison’s value was very hotly debated throughout the Canucks fanbase and leaguewide, to be honest. I actually think Desharnais creates more than Morrison did relative to his linemates, but its not often you get the scoring line that is overly wing heavy.

Puck Worlds: Chasing Pucks from here to Turku.

For Twitter Updates on Puck Worlds, follow @puckworlds. For updates plus additional witty banter from yours truly, follow @saskhab.

by Bruce Peter on Feb 13, 2012 9:30 PM EST up reply actions

Is DD UFA or RFA after next year?

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 9:31 PM EST up reply actions

RFA i think, he’s only 26 then.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:31 PM EST up reply actions

He’s a very interesting case when it comes to a contract extension. If he puts up 2 straight +-60 pts season he can probably ask for alot.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 9:34 PM EST up reply actions

He’d be arbitration eligible too if I’m not mistaken.

by Roke on Feb 13, 2012 11:00 PM EST up reply actions

How come neither Brault, nor Martineau’s sons ever got an NHL contract?

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:25 PM EST reply actions

Bias against the french of course!!

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:25 PM EST up reply actions

Bourque makes a good play to gain the zone, grab the puck, go behind the net, and just…gives it away. Doesn’t try to defend it at all. The Cane just grabs it and he stands there.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:27 PM EST reply actions

reverse jinx attempt: there is no way we can get three PP goals in one game!

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:30 PM EST reply actions

Well that backfired.

Puck Worlds: Chasing Pucks from here to Turku.

For Twitter Updates on Puck Worlds, follow @puckworlds. For updates plus additional witty banter from yours truly, follow @saskhab.

by Bruce Peter on Feb 13, 2012 9:30 PM EST up reply actions

Yeah I wont be doing that again.

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:35 PM EST up reply actions

I thought Johnson was talking team Corsi for a sec, then realized it was GF/A by period.

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 9:30 PM EST reply actions

I just threw up

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:30 PM EST reply actions

Anytime I think the PP is looking good, they give up a terrible shortie.

Kaberle is 100% to blame for that. Absolutely fucking brutal.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:31 PM EST reply actions

Yup.

But, I’d still pull the trigger on the Spacecake trade.

Heh.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 9:32 PM EST up reply actions

So would I. As much as he’s to blame, it wouldn’t have happened if he was playing on the right side like he should be.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:36 PM EST up reply actions

Crap.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 9:31 PM EST reply actions

Cunneyworth needs to stop with putting Kaberle on the left and Subban on the right on the PP. It’s stupid, no matter what some good luck has happened in the last 4 games.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:32 PM EST reply actions

How typical.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:32 PM EST reply actions

If any Canes fans are reading. That was a great play by Staal even if Kaberle was bad.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 9:39 PM EST up reply actions

We’re back to bodies in front and point shots.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:33 PM EST reply actions

Point shots from guys shooting 50 feet out from wide angles too.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:37 PM EST up reply actions

What a play by Cole. Wins the puck, skates it up himself, and creates a chance for DD.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 9:36 PM EST reply actions

I can’t get over how fast he looks this year.

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:37 PM EST up reply actions

I thought for a second that RDS was going to stay on the air for the TV timeout

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:36 PM EST reply actions

Anyone else notice 13 for the Canes back up scared and give up the puck when Subban went in for a check? Didn’t even need to lay the hit.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:39 PM EST reply actions

We just missed witnessing an epic SubBANG!

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 9:40 PM EST reply actions

Anyone notice we knocked the puck away but they didn’t whistle the delayed call down?

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:41 PM EST reply actions

Yep

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:41 PM EST up reply actions

yes.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:42 PM EST up reply actions

I’m not really one to say there’s officiating bias but…

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:42 PM EST up reply actions

Probably just missed it, but that’s one thing they rarely miss.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:45 PM EST up reply actions

A linesman and a red missing something right in front of them? Come on.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:46 PM EST up reply actions

Gordie Dwyer’s allegiances are split. He probably shouldn’t be calling games between these two clubs ;-P

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:47 PM EST up reply actions

Weak call

by JoeRubble on Feb 13, 2012 9:41 PM EST reply actions

I hate this stupid season.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:41 PM EST reply actions

ffs

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:41 PM EST reply actions

Plekanec kinda just stood there doing nothing. Weird.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:42 PM EST reply actions

probably a design play from RC

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:43 PM EST up reply actions

Not our best kill. Defense got caught running around, and the forwards looked confused. I think Pleks was worried about another slot attempt by Staal.

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 9:43 PM EST up reply actions

Staal was on the opposite side tangling with Gorges. Broken stick is what lead to a lot of the chaos.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:44 PM EST up reply actions

He collapsed for the potential rebound, didn’t see the puck come across.

Puck Worlds: Chasing Pucks from here to Turku.

For Twitter Updates on Puck Worlds, follow @puckworlds. For updates plus additional witty banter from yours truly, follow @saskhab.

by Bruce Peter on Feb 13, 2012 9:44 PM EST up reply actions

Stupid season.
2 PK goals allowed is also pretty rare for us.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 9:42 PM EST reply actions

And just like that the Habs blew yet another lead.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:43 PM EST reply actions

But I thought the blowing 3rd period leads thing was a symptom of JM coaching?

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:44 PM EST up reply actions

That was a gruesome turnover by MaxPac

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 9:44 PM EST reply actions

Very uncharacteristic.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:45 PM EST up reply actions

i really hate these free previews of the hockey package. every damned break is this annoying bruins commercial for the hockey package.

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:45 PM EST reply actions

What chan are you watching?

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:47 PM EST up reply actions

the package has the fox sports south feed

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:48 PM EST up reply actions

GameCenter advertises on GameCenter?

Way to preach to the choir.

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:49 PM EST up reply actions

well they have the free preview thing going this week, which means they play that commercial over and over and over. I pay for the package so I think I should be spared.

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:50 PM EST up reply actions

Free? I gotta get me some of dat

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:52 PM EST up reply actions

Bourque tripped and no call.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:47 PM EST reply actions

Yep. Blatant.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:47 PM EST up reply actions

It’s stuff like that that makes you wonder what the refs are watching

by JoeRubble on Feb 13, 2012 9:49 PM EST up reply actions

It really pisses me off that Staal turned this game around after he should have been ejected for a head shot.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:49 PM EST reply actions

I love how Houde says Jerome Samson’s name

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:50 PM EST reply actions

It’s Sergei.

He unloaded the “ov” on ebay.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 9:51 PM EST reply actions

lol

Did he retire, or what?

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:53 PM EST up reply actions

UFA ether.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 9:54 PM EST up reply actions

I don’t see him in the KHL, though.

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:55 PM EST up reply actions

He left Russia so young, I don’t know if he even considers himself Russian anymore. I think he spent his offseasons in the USA.

Puck Worlds: Chasing Pucks from here to Turku.

For Twitter Updates on Puck Worlds, follow @puckworlds. For updates plus additional witty banter from yours truly, follow @saskhab.

by Bruce Peter on Feb 13, 2012 10:06 PM EST up reply actions

That offseason is getting pretty lengthy

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 10:08 PM EST up reply actions

About time a trip gets called.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:52 PM EST reply actions

No kidding. Takes Max doing a superman to get the call.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 9:53 PM EST up reply actions

In the last 10 minutes

Two friends on FB offering , or offered Habs tix for upcoming games. Sounds like the bandwagon jumpers are back

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 9:54 PM EST reply actions

nice start to this pp…egads

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:54 PM EST reply actions

Desharnais had an open net there

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:56 PM EST reply actions

Twice Desharnais was in scoring position and passed to someone who wasn’t.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:56 PM EST reply actions

Made no sense

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 9:57 PM EST up reply actions

Holy fuck, these Canes blueliners are awful

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 9:57 PM EST reply actions

i swear that was a goal, i was already in mid-yelp.

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 9:58 PM EST reply actions

Eller absolutely dominant but can’t buy any PP time.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 9:58 PM EST reply actions

Isn’t Gomez on the 2nd unit? Time for a change…

by westcoasthabs on Feb 13, 2012 9:58 PM EST up reply actions

Eller is awesome.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 9:58 PM EST reply actions

Eller

Canes Dmen suck, but Eller was spectacular on that sequence.

Kevin van Steendelaar

http://www.twitter.com/kvansteendelaar

but don't forget...

http://www.twitter.com/HabsEOTP

by Kevin van Steendelaar on Feb 13, 2012 9:58 PM EST reply actions

Love Eller’s compete and mean streak. Guy might look like a choir boy, but he never backs down.

It all started with the Danny Briere Incident.

by JD__ on Feb 13, 2012 10:00 PM EST reply actions

Why on earth is Darche out there for that faceoff?

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 10:00 PM EST reply actions

I like Darche but not when they need a goal

by JoeRubble on Feb 13, 2012 10:00 PM EST reply actions

Subban just single handedly broke up a 2-on-1 on an empty net.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 10:00 PM EST reply actions

And people say he’s not elite.

by Chris. on Feb 13, 2012 10:01 PM EST up reply actions

They’ll remember a random giveaway over that play.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 10:03 PM EST up reply actions

And Eric Staal, the guy who should have been ejected, ices it.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 10:01 PM EST reply actions

i hate my life

Yeah, I don't like the Bruins, but I HATE the Flyers!

by courtnall on Feb 13, 2012 10:01 PM EST reply actions

Well, that was sadly typical.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 10:02 PM EST reply actions

Hahaha

Of course Carolina hasn’t won a single game trailing after 2 until tonight. This season is a joke.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 10:04 PM EST reply actions

Not enough tougness. Shoulda played Ian Schultz.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 10:05 PM EST reply actions

You’re likely being sarcastic, but why dress Kostitsyn and then sit him the whole game?

Schultz would have been better, over those 4 minutes.

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 10:07 PM EST up reply actions

Yikes.

Puck Worlds: Chasing Pucks from here to Turku.

For Twitter Updates on Puck Worlds, follow @puckworlds. For updates plus additional witty banter from yours truly, follow @saskhab.

by Bruce Peter on Feb 13, 2012 10:11 PM EST up reply actions

How was Kostitsyn -7 on Corsi in just 4 minutes? Wow.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 10:13 PM EST up reply actions

Besides that what has he done to deserve this?

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 10:22 PM EST up reply actions

Cunneyworth deflected that question, citing a slow start, turnovers, etc, while not really singling out or even addressing Kostitsyn.

by Spezzal Teams Playa on Feb 13, 2012 10:24 PM EST up reply actions

According to RDS, he intentionally punished them for “lack of effort”.

Sigh.

by MathMan on Feb 13, 2012 11:36 PM EST up reply actions

I’m not sure. Honestly though the reliance on the DD line tonight was absurd. They were underwater at even strength worse than any other line. The only line that was all positive was the Eller line.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 10:36 PM EST up reply actions

That’s what I thought going by my eyes, the Eller line looked really good. Did you notice what kind of tough they played. I remember seeing them against Skinner at least once but also against Sutter so maybe it was simply all over the place. Eller and Leblanc are awesome together. What was their Corsi/Fenwick?

And the overreliance on the DD line is annoying sometimes, they’re very very good in the role they get but the way that line weakens the rest of the lineup they basically have no choice but to be monsters every night if we want to win. And I don’t line weakening a lineup for a single line, I mean if that line was a tough minutes beast it would make sense. But I feel like as much as that whole line as great offensive stats , the way all the other lines gets screwed to keep them together at any price kind of nullifies that.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 11:06 PM EST up reply actions

I haven’t checked who they played against but Eller was +5 Fenwick, +3 Corsi, Leblanc was +2, 0. Palushaj +3, +6.

Subban had a monster game at +6, +12.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 11:09 PM EST up reply actions

I was keeping track through the game and I’m pretty sure they were getting 2nd or 3rd comps but it varied shift to shift.

Plekanec vs Staal almost absolute this game though.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 13, 2012 11:17 PM EST up reply actions

That would explain why Plekanec had such a good game to the eye but still didn’t have great possession numbers.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 11:25 PM EST up reply actions

Thanks.
Wasn’t Subban against Staal? If so that’s even more impressive considering the game Staal had.
I also noticed at least 2 plays where he held onto the puck where probably 99.5% of NHL defenceman would have either lost it on taken a penalty. The first one he drew the penalty to Skinner, not sure about the second one but I think it might have been right after breaking the 2-1 with the empty net. Crazy puck protection skills there.

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 11:20 PM EST up reply actions

Subban is something else. Fans have no idea how good he’s been this year because they’re obsessed with goals.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 13, 2012 11:24 PM EST up reply actions

He really is. I absolutely can’t believe he still gets labelled a purely offensive D who’s not that good in his zone. Kid’s a legit number one, how many 22 or younger could do what he does? I see Doughty, Pietrangelo, no one comes to my mind except these two. Maybe I’m forgetting someone. Hell not that many D overall could do what he does.

As for the goals, his shooting % is unbelievably low, I doubt he’s a 2% talent. Also, the PP…

by Statsfanatic81 on Feb 13, 2012 11:46 PM EST up reply actions

Defenseman shooting percentage tends to be pretty random. Which makes sense considering where they shot from.

Writer for http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/

by Stephan Cooper on Feb 14, 2012 12:07 AM EST up reply actions

He’s undeniably unlucky this year though. Over 50 shots at 5v4 and no goals. The PP’s strategy and the explicit command for Subban not to pinch sure doesn’t help him either.

Co-editor of Eyes on the Prize
Follow me on twitter: http://twitter.com/andrewberkshire

by Andrew Berkshire on Feb 14, 2012 12:21 AM EST up reply actions