Feeling a playoff tournament, Sabres chaos

Posted on June 17, 2020 by Derek

In a chaotic time that won’t change anytime soon, believe it or not, playoff hockey is inching closer. With Phase 2 finally about to hit in NYC, players will start reporting to training camp.

This all seems very strange. Normally by now, we’re crowning a Stanley Cup winner. Instead, most of us are waiting in anticipation of hockey getting clearance to restart in July. Such is the complex state of the country due to COVID-19. A pandemic that has affected so many people. An unnamed Penguin tested positive for it. So did a Bruin.

Despite all the protests due to racial injustice, we’re not out of the woods yet. That must be kept in mind when it comes to determining if the 2019-20 season will be completed. The NBA will be going through similar protocols with testing for all players front and center. That’s CDC regulation.

I realize this is a very hard time for everyone. But this is a hockey blog. I already gave my synopsis on how bad things are due to the senseless murder of George Floyd in Minnesota. It is what it is. Hopefully, justice will be served. All four cops are in custody. I won’t comment further. That includes the most recent controversial event in Atlanta, which isn’t cut and dry.

Of course, you have plenty of commentary and action from athletes in different sports including the NHL. That’s good. They shouldn’t stay quiet. In regards to the Rangers, they haven’t made a statement due to CEO James Dolan. If that’s how he wants it, then there’s nothing they can do. Their hands are tied. It is kind of sad that this is how both tenants at Madison Square Garden are run. Not that I feel every team has an obligation here. But if you have almost every organization condemning the actions of a few idiotic cops, then it makes the Knicks and Rangers look bad. You know who to blame.

Regardless, there’s a pretty good chance hockey will return. For 24 teams, that means holding camps and getting players up to speed. The skating especially along with the workouts will be intense. We’re going on three months since the NHL paused following the last slate of games on Mar. 11. Just imagine how tough it’ll be on these players to get the rust out by mid to late July. Exactly.

So, for the top four seeds in each Conference, all bets are off. Sure. They’ll play a round robin to determine the top four seeds. I don’t understand that part. It seems a bit unfair to both Boston and St. Louis. However, all eight teams need to play games so they’re not behind when the real playoffs begin. You will have eight preliminary series taking place. All best of five with each winner advancing to the more traditional 16 team tournament.

Here’s the thing. This won’t be like the previous postseasons. It won’t be divisional format. Instead, it’ll be by seed meaning they’ll reseed after each round. That’s the fairest way to do this. Personally, I feel the divisional format has run its course. You have too many heavyweight second round match-ups. That isn’t ideal. Especially when it’s again the Bruins and Lightning looking like the best two teams in the East. Out West, it’s a bit closer even though the Blues and Avalanche have the most points. The Golden Knights are a legit threat despite fewer points.

It certainly will be interesting to see what transpires. Out West, it’s the Blues, Avalanche, Golden Knights and Stars vying for the top seed. In the East, you have the NHL-leading Bruins, Lightning, Capitals and Flyers competing for the number one spot. However it goes, it’ll be the highest seed versus the lowest seed left after the play ins. And so forth.

By now, we’ve learned about Vegas being one hub that will host the Eastern Conference Playoffs. That makes sense. Where the Western Conference winds up remains to be seen. Hopefully, it’s somewhere East. It only seems fair.

I’m not going to delve into anymore on the preliminary best three out of five match-ups. We know what they are. As we draw nearer, I’ll focus more on the Rangers and Hurricanes, who are being underestimated by many despite a good roster that’s more proven under a good coach. I don’t foresee it being a cakewalk for our side despite the season series. Throw that out.

You’ll have compelling series including the Islanders and sleeper Panthers, who could make some noise if the real Sergei Bobrovsky shows up. Plus the pesky Blue Jackets led by Elvis Merzlikins against the star studded Maple Leafs that feature Mitch Marner, Auston Matthews, John Tavares and William Nylander. A unique contrast. The heavy underdog Canadiens leaning on Carey Price, Shea Weber and Nick Suzuki against the top heavy Crosby/Malkin Penguins which include Jake Guentzel ‘if’ healthy, Kris Letang, Jason Zucker and Tristan Jarry.

The West has Hart front-runner Leon Draisaitl teamed with wunderkind Connor McDavid and overlooked pivot Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Darnell Nurse leading the Oilers against the Kane/Toews Blackhawks which also feature Dominik Kubalik. You have the pesky Coyotes led by Darcy Kuemper looking to stifle the Predators, who have key guys such as Matt Duchene, Ryan Johansen, Roman Josi and Viktor Arvidsson. There’s the Wild leaning on emerging star Kevin Fiala and vets Zach Parise, Eric Staal and Ryan Suter, going up against the younger talented Canucks that boast Elias Pettersson, JT Miller, possibly Brock Boeser and Calder hopeful Quinn Hughes. Plus a cool Canadian rivalry between the Flames and Jets involving Calgary headliners Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan, Matthew Tkachuk, Mark Giordano and maybe Cam Talbot in net to deal with Winnipeg studs Mark Schiefele, Kyle Connor, Patrik Laine, Blake Wheeler, Neal Pionk and netminder Conor Hellebuyck.

I feel much better about this tournament than I did a month ago when they first revealed it. It’s much better than the NBA and certainly makes the MLB latest desperation proposal to the players look weak. There’s some actual excitement for this.

I’ll be honest. I’m going to be a lot more invested in my team this time around. This is a unique opportunity for David Quinn to get this exciting mix of Blueshirts featuring Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad ready for an experienced group of Canes that made it to the Conference Finals last year. Having Chris Kreider back should help. But it’ll likely be up to key guys like Pavel Buchnevich, Ryan Strome, Jesper Fast, Kaapo Kakko, Filip Chytil, Tony DeAngelo, Adam Fox and Jacob Trouba if they’re to advance to the big dance. Ditto for Igor Shesterkin.

Can they handle the pressure of a Canes team being underestimated despite stars Sebastian Aho, Teuvo Teravainen, Andrei Svechnikov and rover Dougie Hamilton, who’ll be back patrolling that blueline? What of added center Vincent Trocheck and proven Jordan Staal along with Nino Niederreiter, Jaccob Slavin and tandem Petr Mrazek and James Reimer? It’s bound to be interesting.

Final thought. What the Buffalo Sabres did in firing 22 people including GM Jason Botterill is absurd. What exactly is the thinking? I can see axing Botterill, whose disappointing track record included giving away Ryan O’Reilly to the 2019 Stanley Cup champion Blues for a weak package centered around Tage Thompson. However, never in my wildest dreams did I think they’d sack 22 total including a successful AHL staff in Rochester. They subtracted many scouts and then strangely elevated the unproven Kevyn Adams to GM. Wowza.

It’s fairly obvious that Jack Eichel speaking out once the season was officially over had a enormous affect. I don’t get why co-owner Kim Pegula is so involved in the decision making. What does she know about running a hockey franchise? It seems her and husband Terry are free to do what they want. They’ve now sacked three general managers including Darcy Regier, Tim Murray and now Botterill. Coaches change a lot with Phil Housley not working out the way Botterill envisioned. Well, at least the current coaching staff survived.

Tell me how any of this makes sense. There’s a reason it’ll be exactly a decade since Buffalo last saw the playoffs. It starts with the ownership. The same one that’s allowed the football outfit the Buffalo Bills to be run by NFL people. This is Knicks level bad. How about hiring a Team President? Not in Western New York.

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And Justice For All

Posted on June 4, 2020 by Derek

I wasn’t sure I was going to address the elephant in the room. However, after careful consideration, I feel it’s only right to devote a concise post on the recent tragedy of George Floyd that took place last week in Minneapolis.

As we are fully aware, he was the victim of a racist act by a police officer. Whenever such senseless tragedies occur, I can’t make any sense out of it. This isn’t a political blog. It’s a hockey one. Hopefully pretty soon, we can get back to posting about hockey assuming it returns next month as planned.

Unfortunately, the unjust death of Floyd due to the disgusting actions of that awful cop along with his three peers, has resulted in plenty of protests around the country. No. I don’t care to mention the former cop by name. They’re charged with second degree murder and could face anywhere between 15 to 25 years if convicted. They must do the right thing and send a message. The other three deserve lighter sentences too to pay for their irresponsible non action. A life could’ve been saved.

Instead, here we are again following another one of these terrible incidents involving police. There are other cases that will get more media coverage too. At what point does the madness end? We live in America. The land of the free and home of the brave. That’s why I titled this post, “And Justice For All.” It is part of the pledge of allegiance. It’s not a reference to a great Metallica album. It’s about everyone being treated fairly in this country and getting justice.

Racism is Unacceptable. It isn’t only a issue with black Americans. However, they still suffer more indignities than any other race or ethnicity. In the year 2020 during the 21st century, it shouldn’t be like this anymore. There is too much hatred here. Way too much division. It’s not healthy.

As someone of Jewish descent who understands about persecution throughout history, I have always felt that you should treat others the way you want to be treated. That’s with respect. There should be more peace and love in the United States of America. It doesn’t matter what side you’re on politically. For the record, I’m not on either anymore. I’m an independent free thinker who isn’t going to be voting in the Presidential Election. For a simple reason. Neither candidate is worth supporting. I don’t think either can positively impact what plagues us as a society. Who knows. Maybe I’ll write in John F Kennedy. I’ll be voting locally.

That’s as far as I’ll go on the ugly word of politics. It’s destroying this country. There is no unity. Only chaos and lack of common sense and decency. I’m glad I have intelligent friends who understand that this trend can’t continue. They believe in good causes and want what’s best for everyone. I am proud to say I have friends of different colors, race and ethnicity. I can get along well with everyone.

It’s just very unsettling how things are. When I have to be concerned over an extremist group like Antifa, who’s rumored to be hitting our area prior to a organized peaceful protest this weekend in Tottenville by the historic Conference House, it’s worrisome. I just hope and pray for everyone’s safety.

I’m upset at the prevailing thought of some that generalizes cops as <insert ugly name>. That’s not true. I know good policemen who do the job and are out on the streets putting their lives on the line every day. Like it or not, we live in a cruel world. Crimes are committed. The looting and riots I saw on video thanks to NY 1’s Shannan Ferry was sickening. It’s unacceptable. I know it’s not the true protesters who want to have their voices heard. It’s the criminals who feed off the negativity and are hired guns, whose only purpose is to further divide by creating tension.

I think I speak for most when I say I don’t condone the despicable acts of those four cops that murdered George Floyd. He didn’t resist arrest and lied face down on the ground. Totally defenseless. There was no reason for him to lose his life. Just like Eric Garner out in Stapleton on the North Shore of Staten Island. Of course, I have a lot more knowledge on that case. There were different circumstances. He didn’t deserve to die. It wasn’t just the fired cop either. Similar to Minnesota.

It says a lot about the Floyd family when they have both spoken out and sounded more composed. Particularly his brother who relayed a strong message to protesters at a rally. He informed them that any kind of violence was wrong and not gonna bring his brother back. More violence creates a more toxic environment that doesn’t accomplish anything. Other than more uncivil behavior and possible casualties. Something no one wants.

I want to see better behavior. We shouldn’t need to have a early curfew in the city at this point. But this is where we are. It’s truly a sad time. A confusing one too that can cause grief and anxiety. When you have NYPD cops being shot and more controversy regarding a prisoner who died due to pepper spray in Brooklyn last night, it’s not pleasant for anybody.

Plenty of NHL players have spoken out on the serious issue of racism. The Devils were one of the first teams to put out a statement. My feeling on players and teams doing this is that it’s their choice. It does feel like there’s pressure on organizations to do it. Jim Dolan had to send out an email to clarify that this kind of behavior is unacceptable. He shouldn’t have to. It goes without saying.

Sports and politics should be separate. There are a lot of keyboard warriors who feel the need to express how they feel. I do it through my writing and podcast. I don’t mind discussing the issues. However, I don’t need to do a blackout on Instagram to show solidarity. A black screen isn’t doing anything. It’s our actions that speak louder than our words. We can have voices and be heard by signing petitions or showing support for our friends. Etc.

There are many ways to be active. I just want things to cool down. I know that’s not possible. Thanks to a few idiots, the summer is ruined. When I see people say you’re this for thinking All Lives Matter, I want to bang my head against the wall. I can’t relate to any black person. I don’t know what it’s like to be unfairly targeted. It’s wrong. But what I will say is that every life should matter. Unless you’re a hardened criminal, racist or bad person, you count. If one of us were killed tomorrow, wouldn’t we matter? I sure hope so.

I don’t want to live in a place that makes other people feel guilty. That’s unfair. Just like the ridiculous labels and name calling we see on social media. I think we can be more mature and have civil discussions without fighting like the buffoons in Washington DC. We are better than that.

Let’s show it! 💜💛👍🙏✌

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A unique view on the NHL Playoff Tournament

Posted on May 28, 2020 by Derek

In a special re-recorded podcast via my YouTube channel, here is what I had to say about the NHL’s planned 24 team Playoff Tournament.

Included are some thoughts on the 10 potential host cities and where the games could land. That includes a round robin between the top four seeds in each conference to determine rankings. A bit perplexing to me due to how many points the Bruins racked up. Here are the top eight teams:

EAST

(1) Bruins

(2) Lightning

(3) Capitals

(4) Flyers

WEST

(1) Blues

(2) Avalanche

(3) Golden Knights

(4) Stars

I also look at the strange two to three part NHL Draft Lottery with six of seven eliminated teams taking part in Part I on Friday, June 26. They are the Red Wings, Senators (own rights to Sharks pick too), Kings, Ducks, Devils and Sabres. The second phase will include the eight eliminated teams who take part in the preliminary stage that’s a best three of five round featuring 16 teams (8 per conference).

The Rangers are going to face the Hurricanes in one match-up. They took the season series 4-0. Find out my analysis on the series and why the regular season meetings mean nothing come late July. I preview each series and do my best to make preliminary picks.

The series are as follows:

EAST PRELIMS

(5) Penguins vs (12) Canadiens

(6) Hurricanes vs (11) Rangers

(7) Islanders vs (10) Panthers

(8) Maple Leafs vs (9) Blue Jackets

WEST PRELIMS

(5) Oilers vs (12) Blackhawks

(6) Predators vs (11) Coyotes

(7) Canucks vs (10) Wild

(8) Flames vs (9) Jets

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Devils’ season ends as the NHL rolls out its ‘return to play’ format

Posted on May 27, 2020 by hasan4978

More than two months after the world came to a screeching halt due to a global pandemic, many entities (including the NHL) are trying to slowly begin a return to normal, or whatever our new normal will be when this is all said and done. Even after Gary Bettman, Bill Daly and Donald Fehr spoke yesterday there are still almost as many questions as answers. Chief among them is the overriding asterisk that there’s still no guarantee the NHL itself will be dropping the puck again in the 2019-20 season. As with almost everything in society, it’s all contingent on testing being readily available, the viability of finding host sites and the virus’s curve continuing to flatten.

What we do know, is that the NHL ‘regular season’ as it were, is over with the Devils and six other teams being in limbo till the beginning of the next regular season, whenever that is. Assuming the NHL does return, it’ll be a 24, not 16-team playoff although technically the opening round of eight play-in series won’t count as postseason, most likely to not muddy the waters even further on conditional trades – a couple of which we’re a part of – and also to get in enough total games to satisfy local TV contracts. We also know the NHL Draft lottery is going to be more convoluted with the seven already eliminated teams, and eight play-in series losers all being a part of it.

I’m not even going to bother to try to explain the double lottery format that it would take for one of the play-in losers to win the lottery, but suffice it to say since we’re one of the seven already eliminated, our odds of winning a lottery do not either improve or go down because of this format. Aside from the fact you have to do one drawing, then another to determine which play-in loser moves up in the lottery (if any does after the initial drawing), I don’t really have an issue with it – especially since I don’t care who wins the lottery to be honest, particularly after winning it twice in three seasons and still being stuck in loserville. My main concern at this point is whether we will get Vancouver and Arizona’s first-round picks this year or next year as part of playoff conditions.

Many have an issue with the fact that a team like Pittsburgh can lose a five-game first-round series and theoretically win the lottery. Sure the system isn’t perfect, but you think Penguin fans really care about a possible 3% chance of winning the lottery if they lose a playoff series? I know I’d be more focused on the late ’00’s Devils chances of losing a five-game series than on whether I could get in the lottery. To me giving them a lottery ticket is a neccesary trade off for making teams like the Penguins who were clearly going to the postseason in a normal year, play in a preliminary round instead.

I’m not always one to carry water for the league and clearly this plan isn’t perfect, but I actually think it walks a very delicate balance pretty well. Unlike the NBA where there’s a clear delination between playoff and non-playoff team, in the NHL you’d have teams complaining they missed the playoffs due to fewer number of games played, or if the NHL determined postseason berths on account of winning percentage then they’d be mocked for keeping a team with one or two more points out of the postseason.

Ideally you’d like the postseason to be ten teams instead of twelve in each conference, but then ironically it’d be the Rangers who would have gotten screwed in 11th place missing by a point while having one fewer game played than the Panthers. Clearly the NHL opted for too many over too few, especially when the 24-team plan brings in three Original Six markets who wouldn’t be part of the playoffs otherwise. As much as I would mock the ‘anything for a buck’ mentality under normal circumstances, if there’s one point in history I don’t begrudge the NHL or any other league looking at markets and making money while keeping as many teams involved as plausible…

Also what’s ironic is the Devils missed the preliminary round by only three points, with two fewer games played than the Canadiens. Not that we would have really deserved to make the postseason, and despite the way we were playing in the second half of the season I really couldn’t see us beating the better teams in the league once they got their rust out of the way. I don’t really need to do a season recap, essentially I already did one shortly after worldwide limbo started although I didn’t neccesarily see things going on to this degree for this long. Some of my takes aged well, others probably didn’t – including believing we’d still be playing a regular season only with no fans, but I really doubt anyone seriously thought in mid-March we’d still be sitting here at the end of May with the only live sports from the big four being a star-laden charity golf match, and the NFL Draft.

As the sport and society stays in limbo, so do the Devils themselves. Owners Josh Harris and David Blitzer could say – justifiably – that they can’t do their due dillegence in terms of hiring both a full-time GM and a full-time coach if they’re not allowed to talk to every possible candidate until their own seasons end. Still, it seems a bit embarassing to continue to trot out Tom Fitzgerald as such a public mouthpiece and making him and his staff work during this pause while refusing to remove the ‘interim’ from his title. You could say the same about interim coach Alain Nasreddine except that there isn’t a whole lot of coaching to be done in the offseason.

I will give the Devils credit for at least one thing in general though, they have managed to put out a lot of content – remotely – with weekly interviews of both players and staff, plus special guests like Martin Brodeur. I’ve certainly heard and seen a lot more content from the Devils than from my other sports teams, who are also on the same pause (though in the NFL’s case it’s more like a normal offseason to this point than the others). I can’t say I’ve listened to all of them but I have listened to a few, and it is interesting to hear how the players themselves are dealing with things.

Still, it’s a very dark time for a Devils hockey fan and not just because of what’s going on in the world – but even when the games do return to the Rock (with or without fans), whether it’s the fall, winter or whenever – many questions and doubts will remain about the on-ice future of the franchise, and no answers appear imminent.

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Coming to grips with a gut wrenching moment

Posted on May 26, 2020 by Derek

Life can be funny sometimes. It truly can be mysterious and unpredictable. Take the date May 25th.

In 1994 on one memorable hot Spring night, that meant captain Mark Messier delivering on his promise by leading the Rangers back from two goals down by assisting on Alex Kovalev’s late second period goal and recording a natural hat trick in a unbelievable 4-2 virtuoso performance to win Game Six over the Devils at The Meadowlands.

The Rangers would need double overtime to get past the Devils in a astonishing Game Seven with Stephane Matteau becoming symbolic thanks to Howie Rose’s unreal call. They would need seven games to defeat the Canucks and capture the franchise’s fourth Stanley Cup, and first in 54 years.

Fast-forward 18 years to another May 25th night in Newark at The Prudential Center in 2012. This time in their first Conference Final meeting since Martin Brodeur’s rookie year, it was a 40 years young Marty who got the better of 30-year old Vezina counterpart Henrik Lundqvist with the home Devils exacting a measure of revenge by taking Game Six by a count of 3-2 at over a minute into sudden death. Adam Henrique scored the winner by steering home a loose puck by a maze of Rangers on their pants that included Lundqvist.

Henrique conquered King Henrik and “Henrique, It’s Over!”, was replayed on repeat like Groundhog Day for this broken hearted Blueshirts fan for the next eight years. A call made famous by former legendary Devils announcer Doc Emrick. Sure. He was overly excited and it was the one moment there was a sense of homer in the true professional. But I can also recall how good he sounded calling Messier’s signature moment that broke Devils hearts where Jimmy Hoffa supposedly was buried. Both Doc and Peter McNabb heaped praise on Messier and they kept showing the infamous We’ll Win Tonight back page as he completed the hat trick into a open net from 170 feet.

I’ll be honest. For eight years, I never watched the traditional handshake between the two Hudson rivals. I couldn’t. Once the goal was scored, I left the house and went for a walk to my old grammar school PS 4. Not to be confused with PS4 for PlayStation 4. I walked and then sat by myself in the old schoolyard for a while before calling Devils friend Robert Davis to congratulate him on his team’s victory. He felt they had it in them before that postseason. I chuckled and joked. I didn’t see it coming. Oops.

It’s safe to say Rob got the last laugh. However, I was a man of my word and made sure to phone him. His team had won and advanced to the Stanley Cup Final where they felt the agony and pain of losing to the dreaded Kings. A team both fan bases hate. They did it to us two years later. Now, I get the two words, “Alec Martinez”, from Sabres buddy Brian Sanborn. He loves to rub salt in the wound.

At least I was out at the bar with coworkers wondering how the Rangers wasted at least three power plays in sudden death along with Chris Kreider denied by Jonathan Quick on a breakaway before Martinez ended it by putting a rebound past Lundqvist. The bar turned it off and I never saw the handshake or Cup presentation. I never will. Too painful. They didn’t get back the next year losing a home Game Seven on Garden ice to the Lightning in a strange Conference Final. Shutout in Games 5 and 7 at MSG. It was humbling.

That was it for that great era of Rangers hockey. Three cracks at it and they fell short each time. I now think the losses to the Kings and Bolts were worse than what happened on May 25, 2012. The teams in ’13-14 and ’14-15 were more talented and deeper. Also more proven. They twice dug out of 3-1 series deficits in the second round to stun the Pens and Caps in consecutive years. The only times in franchise history they’ve done it.

The bottom line is it wasn’t meant to be. You have to be both pretty special and lucky to win a championship. The ’86 Mets were. So were the ’90 Giants. Even the ’96 Yankees had some magic. There are countless examples. The ’94 Rangers were the best team and better than any of the rosters I listed above. Yet needed to stare death in the face at Continental Airlines Arena and got a lucky bounce for Matteau’s historic goal. They needed two loud goalposts next to Mike Richter in the hair-raising third period to hang on and defeat the Canucks for Lord Stanley.

That’s sports. It took me eight years to watch the Henrique goal along with the handshake. You know what. It wasn’t as bad as I thought. I finally have closure.

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Hockey coming back? Happy Anniversary Messier Guarantee

Posted on May 25, 2020 by Derek

On this nice Memorial Day in the New York and New Jersey area, we are thankful for our health and loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. We thank our vets including my cool Uncle Bunk, who served in the 1950’s. Without them, there is nothing to celebrate. They made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

It is still a strange time on this Monday the 25th of May. The final Monday of the month already. By next week, it’ll officially be June. A warmer time with summer around the corner. Normally, both the NHL and NBA are into the final round of their playoffs with teams battling to be crowned champs. Baseball is in full swing and both golf and tennis are near the halfway point of their major seasons.

Instead, here we are on Memorial Day weekend with Nascar back and a match that featured Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson raising money for COVID relief on Sunday. It’s again the emergency healthcare medical workers who are the ultimate heroes working around the clock to keep America safe. It’s essential workers who deserve a thank you for helping keep things sane during a not so normal time.

Three paragraphs in and I’m finally about to get to the hockey part of this blog. What once was a interesting season with playoff battles for positioning and wildcards is now a question of a proposed radical idea that would change the outlook for everyone. How do you really feel about a 24 Team NHL Playoff Tournament that would include essentially a play in round between eight extra teams featuring best of five series to advance?

That would include the Rangers and Hurricanes in one series along with the Islanders and Panthers. The Canadiens would also be part of it despite only 71 points. The entire Central Division including the last place Blackhawks, whose 72 points trail the wildcard by six, would also take part. To be frank, it’s a strange concept. I’m not too fond of having 24 of 31 teams competing in say the start of July for the postseason. You can’t call it a traditional Stanley Cup. It isn’t. They’re trying to save face ‘if’ the CDC regulations in a full contact sport allows the players of each team to compete in select arenas.

There are risks. The same that apply to MLB, who proposed a list so big on rules and regulations, that some players might balk at the 82 game proposal. Blake Snell doesn’t seem too enthusiastic about playing for less dollars and cents with a proposed 50/50 split between players and owners. We don’t even know what the NHL and NHLPA will agree to in terms of how to keep everyone including coaches, officials, trainers, medical staff, engineers and cameramen safe without fans. That also includes hotels. It’s an issue that each league including the NBA face if they do return to complete the ’19-20 seasons.

For more observations on the proposed tournament, suggestions for a potential off-season this Fall and future ideas to create more rivalry games during whenever the next 82 game season is, please refer to my video blog below. I did include some wrestling around the 40 minute mark and other thoughts as well. It’s mostly hockey from five minutes in and over half the Vlog. All recorded last night.

In regards to a potential best of five preliminary series versus the Hurricanes, the Rangers should have the edge in goal with rookie Igor Shesterkin and even backups Alex Georgiev and Henrik Lundqvist over Carolina tandem Petr Mrazek and James Reimer. If Dougie Hamilton isn’t able to return for the Canes, that’s a big hit for their blueline. They do boast some experience up front in Justin Williams, Sebastian Aho, Teuvo Teravainen, Andrei Svechnikov and Jordan Staal. But Jaccob Slavin would have to carry the load along with Brett Pesce.

One would think the dynamic duo of Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad would do damage in a short series. Especially with a healthy Chris Kreider and Pavel Buchnevich. The Rangers back end isn’t great either, but with superb puck movers such as Tony DeAngelo and Adam Fox, they would be dangerous in transition and on the power play. The wildcard would be Kaapo Kakko.

If they were to advance, they could be a dark horse in such a tournament. That’s all I have to say for now. Let’s wait and see if it actually happens. There’s still likely a month to go.

Happy Anniversary to this guy above. Mark Messier, who delivered with a natural hat trick on his Guarantee 26 years ago in Game Six against the Devils. Only reason I knew was Howie Rose mentioned it while interviewing Gary Thorne on WFAN with Suzyn Waldman. Hard to believe.

I’m glad that Knicks legend Patrick Ewing is out of the hospital and hopefully, on his way to a strong recovery from the Coronavirus. Be good and safe out there.

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What ‘If’

Posted on May 16, 2020 by Derek

The 1991-92 New York Rangers were one of the franchise’s best teams. What ‘if’ they had beaten the Penguins and won the Stanley Cup that year? We look back while also looking forward at the promising current Blueshirts. AP Photo via Getty Images

It’s been two months since hockey was played. The last batch of games took place on Wednesday, March 11. The Rangers were defeated by the ultra talented Avalanche 3-2 in overtime. The loss left them one point behind the Islanders and two out of the wildcard shared by Carolina and Columbus.

At the time, the Blueshirts had played 70 games during the incomplete 82-game regular season. They made up considerable ground after returning from the All-Star break by going 14-7-1 to pull within two points of the playoffs. While they’d cooled off following a run that included a four game winning streak and five straight victories sandwiched around a 3-1 loss to the East-leading Bruins, they were right there when the NHL paused the season due to COVID-19.

They had no choice. Especially once the NBA was forced to stop following the positive result of Jazz center Rudy Gobert. Eventually, it came out that a few Senators had also been positive for the pandemic that’s altered our thinking and way of life. So many families have been affected by this terrible epidemic. It’s indeed a humbling time for everyone and you have to proceed with caution. Even as the weather improves in mid-May, there remain health risks that have put the four major sports on hold. That includes baseball, who can’t seem to decide when or if to have an abbreviated season of 82 games due to the two sides not being able to reach agreement.

So, here’s where we currently are. Nascar returns this weekend and golf is on deck. Horse racing will be back, but nobody in New York State can attend races. It’ll be virtual viewing for the high stakes gamblers. Can you picture it? Not that I care.

Hockey remains in limbo. Even with Gary Bettman hinting that they haven’t considered shutting down the ’19-20 season, the rumors of a playoff tournament that could include either 20 or even 24 of the 31 teams, doesn’t exactly appeal to me. For two reasons.

1. Even if it were 24, the Rangers would be cut out. There are four divisions. They’d take the top six in each which would leave the 79 point Blueshirts home. But the Sabres, Canadiens, Ducks, Coyotes would all qualify despite fewer points due to where they play. The Metro is the best division. The Rangers are seventh.

2. Having such a unorthodox tournament would tarnish what the sport is all about. What if they crowned a surprising winner? Do they actually get to celebrate the Stanley Cup? It would be strange. It’s the most prestigious trophy in sports. I’m a traditionalist. I wouldn’t have any interest in watching.

A while back, I suggested having play-ins. You could do it for the wildcards and even third place in a division if it’s up for grabs. That would take a week to decide and then they could go on with a traditional postseason. I believe that’s the best way to go.

Of course, the teams would have to have training camps to get the players back in shape. With locations limited, that creates a speed bump. If they did complete the year, you could have a normal off-season with NHL Draft lottery, Draft, free agency, arbitration and buyouts.

I’ve suggested starting 2020-21 in late December or January and having an abbreviated 54-game schedule. They’ve done it before. History proves it can be successful like 1995 and 2013. Two worthy champs in the Devils and Blackhawks were crowned. I think that’s the best way to go. Especially if they need to save face due to the revenue tied to the salary cap.

Now, I’m no expert. I understand that any continuation of the season likely means no spectators, no concessions and limited personnel. There would still be health risks due to the Coronavirus. You’d still have two teams playing with coaches, trainers, doctors, cameramen, engineers, etc. What if someone tested positive? How would they deal with it?

I have to think any broadcast would be virtual to protect our favorite play by play men and color analysts. Why put them at risk? ESPN actually is doing Korean Baseball games by virtual. That’s what it’s come down to. The KBC is the only baseball televised at odd times. No. I haven’t watched. I’m not that desperate.

Over this time, I’ve found myself blogging poetry, music and life over at Hitting Back. I just haven’t had much interest in sports except for the random post on past events like the 90’s Chicago Bulls dynasty due to Michael Jordan Documentary The Last Dance or favorite baseball star Ken Griffey, Jr. Outside of Don Mattingly, Doc and Darryl, Griffey is that player for me with pre-roids Barry Bonds and Frank Thomas in my list.

What ‘if’ there’s no conclusion? There wouldn’t be any point in having awards for either NHL or NBA. It would be pointless. Who wants an MVP trophy without a postseason that their team can compete in? The same applies for other awards even though I bet they’d still do a low-key announcement of who won. Artemi Panarin would likely lose out to Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. Nathan MacKinnon would again fall short. Top rookie would be interesting between Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes. Vezina would either go to Tuukka Rask or Andrei Vasilevskiy. Norris would be a coronation for John Carlson.

Would Mika Zibanejad of the five goal game that bested the Ovechkin Caps make an All NHL Team? It still would be tough considering the stiff competition of Draisaitl, McDavid, MacKinnon, Jack Eichel and Auston Matthews. Statistically speaking, Zibanejad’s 75 points over 57 games is better than Eichel or Matthews. Undoubtedly, there’s a place for Panarin, who I’d put on the First Team over Ovechkin. That’s how special the Bread Man has been in Year One on Broadway.

The Rocket Richard would be shared between Ovechkin and overlooked MVP candidate David Pastrnak. Both with 48 goals. Personally, I’m more impressed with both Pastrnak and Panarin than the dynamic Oilers duo, who are both minus players despite their prolific scoring. Of course, Pasta is helped by playing on the game’s best scoring line with future Hall of Famer Patrice Bergeron and The Rat, Brad Marchand. Panarin has done it while mostly teamed with Ryan Strome and Jesper Fast. He’s also gotten some time with Zibanejad on the power play and three-on-three. But his plus-36 rating tops all forwards and ranks only behind ex Rangers farmhand Ryan Graves (+40). Too bad he never even got a look here. Oops.

If you’re talking about the Selke for the game’s top defensive forward, I’d give it to Anthony Cirelli. He’s made a considerable difference for the Bolts in his second year. Everyone always goes with the player that has the highest amount of points combined with five-on-five play and penalty kill, plus face-offs. While that’s usually reserved for Bergeron or Anze Kopitar, I feel Cirelli best exemplifies what the award is all about. He’s put up 44 points with a plus-28 with 37 of his 44 coming at even strength. Teammate Brayden Point has 51 of his 64 points at even strength and also is plus-28. He’s over 51 percent on draws while Cirelli is 47.5. However, Cirelli has gone 54-and-75 shorthanded. Not great, but he’s done a lot of the grunt work on the kill.

If there actually is a postseason, Cirelli would be one of my keys to any success for the Bolts. It’s that gritty style that helps you win. For Tampa Bay, who obviously were the biggest disappointment last Spring after being shockingly swept by the Blue Jackets, it could be another opportunity lost.

All Photos copyright Getty Images via NHL

What ‘if’ the 1991-92 New York Rangers had not lost to the hated Mario Lemieux Penguins in the Patrick Division Final? What ‘if’ Roger Neilson didn’t put an ice cold John Vanbiesbrouck in for sudden death following future Cup champion Mike Richter letting in that awful goal to Ron Francis from center ice? He would never be seen again as Beezer played Games Five and Six, getting victimized by Jaromir Jagr three times including a penalty shot and game-winner to dash any Cup hopes for fans in attendance at Madison Square Garden during a crushing 3-2 loss in the pivotal Game Five.

The Jagr-led Pens closed the Rangers out 5-1 in Game Six at the Civic Center minus Lemieux. The Rangers played the final three games (all losses) without Adam Graves for his controversial slash on Lemieux that resulted in a four-game suspension. Even though the slash that broke Lemieux’s left hand during Game Two, it wasn’t ruled intentional. He was assessed a minor penalty and played the third game before sitting out as the Blueshirts wilted.

That was a great team. They won the President’s Trophy and had Hart winner Mark Messier in his debut season on Broadway while Brian Leetch eclipsed 100 points to win his first Norris. Since then, no NHL defenseman has hit 100 in a season. Only five have done it in league history. Name the other four. Trivia answer to be revealed at the end of this post.

Of course, Lemieux returned after missing six games and led the Pens to a second consecutive Cup. With Lemieux, Francis, Jagr and Kevin Stevens dominating, they swept both the Bruins and Blackhawks to repeat. Meaning they won their final 11 games of the ’92 NHL Playoffs. One that felt like a dagger to Garden Faithful, who truly believed that was the year to erase the Stanley Cup drought.

Instead, Neilson would be fired in a disappointing ’92-93 where Leetch got hurt due to a story that’s been well documented. Let’s just say I’m not going to reveal it. Neilson was replaced by Ron Smith as the team imploded. At least it marked the debuts of key Russian rookies Alex Kovalev and Sergei Zubov. Along with Sergei Nemchinov and Alexander Karpovtsev, they would play pivotal roles in ending the 54-year drought under Iron Mike Keenan in ’93-94.

However, young talent such as Doug Weight, Tony Amonte, Darren Turcotte, Todd Marchant and proven finisher Mike Gartner were sacrificed to win the franchise’s fourth Cup. Veterans Esa Tikkanen, Steve Larmer, Stephane Matteau, Brian Noonan, Craig MacTavish and Glenn Anderson were added as they overhauled the roster. James Patrick was packaged with Turcotte to the Whalers in a three team trade involving the Blackhawks that netted key contributor Larmer and fourth liner Nick Kypreos. Thankfully, all the moves panned out to win the championship.

I do wonder what it would’ve been like had the ’91-92 roster taken care of the Pens. The Bruins were a very good team that were no match for the defending champs in the old Wales Conference Final. It probably would’ve been a good series. I believe the winner would’ve beaten Chicago to win Lord Stanley.

None of that matters now. Here we are some 26 years later and it’s been nothing but frustration, pain and agony for Blueshirt fans during the Henrik Lundqvist Era. Close three times, but no cigar or Kovalev troll doused in champagne. One of my favorite moments of that ’94 team.

At least the franchise is headed in the right direction. With promising young players headlined by new starting netminder Igor Shesterkin with Adam Fox, Ryan Lindgren, Kaapo Kakko and Filip Chytil, there’s much to look forward to. A core that includes Zibanejad, Panarin, Chris Kreider, Pavel Buchnevich, Tony DeAngelo and Jacob Trouba should provide excitement for the present and future.

Decisions remain on Strome, who has been a good fit along with potential UFA Fast with the Bread Man. DeAngelo and Strome are restricted whenever the off-season hits. So is Brendan Lemieux. With Kreider taken care of and Brady Skjei in Carolina, the organization should have enough wiggle room to keep the nucleus together which includes Fast if they feel it’s worthwhile. As much as I like him, he’s replaceable. Lauri Pajunemi possibly? We’ll see.

The future of the blueline hinges on Fox, DeAngelo and Trouba, who must perform better to justify his contract. He can improve. Having a consistent partner would help. Lindgren provides the physical element and edge Jeff Beukeboom did. Mike Sauer was the last Blueshirt to do that. Unfortunately, his career was cut short. The less said, the better.

What about K’Andre Miller, who’s signed and will likely be ticketed for Hartford unless he overly impresses in camp? That’s still a long way away. There’s no need to rush him with proud vet Marc Staal likely to play out the final year of his contract. Will it spell the end of his career? He sure isn’t appreciated enough, reminding me of Dan Girardi towards the end before he concluded an overachieving NHL career in Tampa.

Would Danny G consider a return to the organization in a developmental role? Truth be told, we all appreciate him for what he brought. The same will be true for Staal once he departs. That’s always how it is. New York City is a tough town to play in. We are feisty and very hard on our players. Even Derek Jeter got booed.

Don’t forget that Alex Georgiev is a RFA as well. Given the situation the goalies were in at last check, I have to think they’ll re-sign him on a fair short-term contract that will make him movable. Especially with Tyler Wall signed. It really does feel like the end for Lundqvist, who owns several franchise records and will be remembered for being a great goalie in the Big Apple. Even if he declined as most players do, it happens.

There is the matter of that No-Move Clause and a potential amnesty buyout. That’s for Team President John Davidson and GM Jeff Gorton to decide along with coach David Quinn. If he wants to continue his career, it’ll likely be elsewhere. Try Minnesota where he can hangout with loyal buddy Mats Zuccarello, who doesn’t seem to get that sometimes, things change. You would think he would after last year. Regardless, I’ll always be a huge fan of Zucc.

Nils Lundkvist will also arrive for 2020-21. A highly thought of young D prospect, he is climbing the ladder in the rankings. What if they knew Fox would be so poised and DeAngelo would erupt? Would they have done the trade for Trouba? That’s a hefty cap number. Oh well. The Rangers will only get stronger on the back end. Don’t forget Matthew Robertson either. He’s likely two years away.

Where will Vitali Kravtsov fit in? The forgotten first round pick from Russia, who turned his first pro year around after returning to Hartford. Hopefully, he realizes his potential. Kakko will improve. He has to. That means better skating, strength and scoring. Defense not withstanding.

When it comes down to it, we have much to look forward to. We just have no idea when. Stay patient.

Trivia Answer: In 1991-92, Brian Leetch became the fifth defenseman in NHL history to eclipse 100 points by posting 22 goals with 80 assists for a career high 102 points to capture his first Norris Trophy. Who are the other four?

1. Bobby Orr (Bruins): Six. 139 in ’70-71, 135 in ’74-75, 122 in ’73-74, 120 in ’69-70, 117 in ’71-72 and 101 in ’72-73.

2. Paul Coffey (Oilers/Penguins): Five. 138 in ’85-86, 126 in ’83-84, 121 in ’84-85, 113 in ’88-89 and 103 in ’89-90.

3. Al MacInnis (Flames): One. 103 in ’90-91.

4. Denis Potvin (Islanders): One. 101 in ’78-79.

5. Brian Leetch (Rangers): One. 102 in ’91-92.

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Racist taunt of K’Andre Miller the latest example of ugliness in sports, misguided fools go after DeAngelo

Posted on April 5, 2020 by Derek

Unacceptable. Despicable. Disgusting. What happened on Friday afternoon to K’Andre Miller should NEVER EVER happen under any circumstances. The Rangers defense prospect experienced a racist taunt while taking part in a Q & A session with fans on Zoom.

How this was allowed to occur is beyond explanation. It’s true that things are a lot different from how they used to be due to COVID-19. Now, everything is done via remote location through social media. Unfortunately, it can be very cruel due to the filth that exists behind keyboards. These are the types of people who belong without any laptop, computer, phone or Tablet that have internet access. They are a disgrace.

It’s very sad that even in 2020, racism exists. I don’t know why. I decided against linking up the horrible taunt Miller received because I don’t want to bring attention to that awful person. I will only say that with the Rangers organization fully cooperating with the FBI, I hope they catch them and they pay the price. There is no place for such garbage.

True enough, I didn’t even find out about it right away. My mind has been elsewhere. That goes for most people due to the health risks of even going outside. So, when it was brought to my attention, I had to do a search on Twitter. It quickly came up to my disgust.

It’s embarrassing for the Rangers and hockey. It took the organization a while to make a statement regarding what happened. They came under criticism from irate fans. Maybe it’s not so easy for the people who run the social media account to respond immediately. This wasn’t your normal situation. It’s hard to fathom.

What is disturbing aside from how that idiot got past moderation is how misguided some fans are. They started going after Tony DeAngelo as if he had something to do with it. You have to be a complete moron to think such nonsense. This is all due to how bad things have become. Political beliefs are the root of the problem. I don’t care what side a player is on as long as they contribute to my team and stay out of trouble.

DeAngelo has been one of the best Blueshirts this season. If they don’t play again, which is becoming a likely scenario, he had the best season by a Ranger defenseman since Brian Leetch. Yet some fools don’t want him on the team. He is very active on Twitter and opinionated. I’ve never seen him tweet one bad thing that went too far. Unlike a former ESPN Sports Center anchor, who made a ridiculous comment about Patriots owner Robert Kraft after he helped deliver 300,000 protective masks to New York.

That kind gesture deserves praise. Not criticism from a person who pushes the political envelope too much. At this critical moment, it doesn’t matter where you stand. We need to come together and unite as one to defeat this deadly Coronavirus. It’s costing many lives here locally and affecting everyone. Essential workers deserve every accolade for how they’ve handled a difficult situation.

As someone who is in the middle, I realize what’s important. That’s making sure my family and inner circle of friends are alright. It’s also being responsible when I go out. Avoiding crowds and being careful what I touch. Of course, coming home and cleaning up well. Too many people aren’t listening. They’re putting themselves and others at risk of spreading this deadly disease. This is SERIOUS.

Ignorance seems to be the word of the day. Whether it’s racism or political crap, neither belongs in any setting. Respect should be a two-way street. If anything good comes out of this, it should be treating each other better. Being polite counts for something. Having good manners shouldn’t be taken for granted.

There’s far too much hate in the world. Right now, that should stop. K’Andre Miller deserves better. So does every victim of such despicable acts. It’s nice to know that future teammates Jacob Trouba, Ryan Strome and DeAngelo have his back.

https://twitter.com/TonyDee07/status/1246245653300359179?s=19

As they each pointed out, this team sticks together and are a family. That’s how it should be. That’s why the nonsense from foolish fans and misguided blogs that are pushing the anti DeAngelo movement deserve to have no team to root for. They should be punished by MSG.

You don’t have to like a player totally. Sean Avery and Donald Brashear come to mind. However, it’s what’s on the front of the jersey that matters most. Not the back. They wear the Rangers logo and represent the team. It’s time for the divisiveness to end.

Treat all our players with respect. Or don’t be a fan.

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Hard Hits Podcast: Cool Rangers stories, Yankees classic photos, sportscards and NHL 94

Posted on March 29, 2020 by Derek

In the third episode of my new Hard Hits Podcast on YouTube, I get into a few different topics. With all the COVID-19 pandemic news, I give it an appropriate nickname while trying to keep things light with some cool stuff I’ve collected over the years.

That includes plenty of Rangers with almost everything over the past 24 years saved. From classic media guides to Rangers pennants and playoff towels, I got you covered during this quiet time without hockey or any live sports.

That includes baseball. Believe it or not, Opening Day has come and gone for both the Yankees and Mets. Will we see baseball? Maybe by July or August. While sad, there are many things sadder when you take a closer look at the nearly 1,000 total deaths to the deadly Coronavirus that’s had more cases in the United States than elsewhere. My parents know a childhood friend whose current husband is in the ICU and critical. It doesn’t sound good.

I’m doing these new Vlogs on my YouTube channel to keep things busy and anyone who needs a welcome distraction occupied. There are plenty of things to talk about these days. From hockey to classic Yankees photos from the franchise’s inception as the New York Highlanders in a book I featured, Episode Three is a fun mixed bag of interesting stuff.

That includes some of the sportscards I’ve collected over time. I could probably have my own store. That includes two Joe Thornton Upper Deck rookies in good condition. Plus some throwbacks that’ll make you laugh.

I also touch on Mark Messier, whose return to the Rangers didn’t go as planned. Plus a cool story on meeting John Davidson after a Flyers game. And some of the illustrious Rangers Stanley Cup past that has been forgotten by Madison Square Garden. Honoring original stars like Frank Boucher, Bill and Bun Cook, Lorne Chabot, Lester Patrick, Bryan Hextall, Ching Johnson and Dave Kerr should be mandatory. Just recognizing their contributions would be a step in the right direction.

I also played NHL 94. I still got it. All this is covered below. Please check out my video blog from last night. Like, share or subscribe if you want.

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Podcast Episode 2: More in depth on the all-time great goalies, plus commentary on Lindros, Bure and a little ’94 Rangers

Posted on March 28, 2020 by Derek

Last night on my YouTube Channel, I recorded my second episode of the Podcast. In it, I continued to go through the careers of Martin Brodeur, Dominik Hasek and Patrick Roy. Also included a few of the all-time greats from way back as part of the goalie discussion.

Following more in depth on the great goalies, I went back in time on Eric Lindros with a surprise. Then, broke down his Hall of Fame career along with Pavel Bure. Two great players whose careers were shortened by injuries.

I also included a little bit on the ’94 Rangers, who had to contend with the Russian Rocket. Plus a few classic photos of me, my brother and father.

The podcast went a bit longer. But it’s worth the watch if you love vintage hockey. As always, Like, Share and Subscribe if you like the content. I’ll have Episode 3 later tonight. TBD.

Derek Felix can be followed:

Twitter: BattleOfHudson

Instagram: dflex2123

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