WCH2016: Crosby puts on a show in Canada’s 6-0 rout of Czech Republic

Posted on September 18, 2016 by Derek
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The Crosby Show: Sidney Crosby put on a show in Canada’s 6-0 win over the Czech Republic. Here, he banks in the first goal off Michal Neuvirth. Canada dominated led by the game’s best player. AP Photo via Getty Images/Canadian Press from Sean Leahy of Puck Daddy.

If ever a country was ready for the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, it was Canada. It’s their sport. The game’s best player Sidney Crosby put everyone on notice with a dominant performance. The two-time Stanley Cup champion, Conn Smythe winner and prince of the golden goal was at his usual spectacular self scoring the game’s first goal and assisting on two others- highlighting Canada’s 6-0 rout of the Czech Republic.

How amazing is Crosby? In what was a fantastic start by the Czechs, who went right at Canada, he found himself on a clean breakaway with the game scoreless. Everyone knew he was gonna shoot and go high glove. Czech starter Michael Neuvirth was ready and took it away with a breathtaking glove save to rob Crosby. He certainly did everything possible to give his team a chance. But couldn’t deny the crafty Crosby from behind the net. Imitating Wayne Gretzky, Crosby intentionally banked the puck off Neuvirth, who had to deal with an initial stop on Steven Stamkos at the far post and Brad Marchand. The goal at 8:26 got the party started in Toronto.

The Czechs came out flying. They used their speed and created chances. Ales Hemsky hit the crossbar with Carey Price screened. Jakub Voracek also had a great end to end rush and challenged Price. Ondrej Palat was dangerous early.

Eventually, the superior team took over. It was a great offensive draw that led to their second goal of the first. A perfect win by Patrice Bergeron allowed Crosby to dish back for a Brent Burns slap shot which was later credited to Marchand. Somehow, the pesky Bruins’ forward parked himself in front and got a piece of Burns’ laser to steer it in upstairs for a 2-0 lead with 2:52 left.

If you thought they were done and the Czechs would survive only down a pair, you just haven’t seen Crosby or Canada play. They’re relentless. It was Crosby’s relentlessness in particular that resulted in Marchand feeding a wide open Bergeron to beat the buzzer. Hounding Michal Kempny, who signed with the Blackhawks and had some better moments earlier, Crosby forced him into a sloppy turnover. Before you knew it, Marchand coolly threaded the needle past Crosby to his Boston teammate for a sweet finish with 0.7 seconds left.

That was the end of the match. The Czechs never recovered. They didn’t give up. It’s just that Canada’s speed and consistent fore-check tilted the ice. On for another shift, Crosby took a Matt Duchene feed and made an unbelievable backhand saucer pass to the bearded Joe Thornton for a tap in backdoor. Even though he didn’t get credit for an assist on Bergeron’s tally, Crosby basically deserved a fourth point for his great effort. He was plus-four with three points and dominated on face offs winning 86 percent.

During the telecast on ESPNews, John Buccigross and Kevin Weekes were entertained by the Crosby show. The same can be echoed for studio analysts Chris Chelios and Brett Hull who remarked, “It’s so hard to play with him.” Leah Hextall interviewed players between periods. Clearly, Buccigross and Weekes have great chemistry. They are a fun listen.

In between getting peppered for 50 shots and finishing with 44 saves, Neuvirth made some other spectacular stops including one where he somehow got his blocker up after being down for one of the best saves. Unfortunately, his best wasn’t enough for the Czechs, who next face Team Europe. Considering that Europe upset Team USA 3-0, it’s a must win for the Czechs. That could be more manageable than USA needing to beat Canada on Tuesday.

Canada would add two more goals. Jonathan Toews finished off down low for a power play goal from Ryan Getzlaf and John Tavares. In the third, Alex Pietrangelo made it a touchdown for another PPG from Drew Doughty and Tavares.

The Canadians have it all. It’s not just world class skill and star talent. But the will to compete every shift. That’s what makes them the best. Until proven otherwise, they remain the clear favorites.

Tomorrow is Group B play with Russia and Sweden in what should be a barn burner Sunday afternoon. Then we get to see how the young and talented North America fare against battle tested Finland. They’re in a very tough group. So, we’ll see if they’re up to the challenge.

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WCH2016: Europe humiliates USA 3-0

Posted on September 17, 2016 by Derek
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All Europe: Marian Gaborik celebrates his first period goal with Christian Ehrhoff as Team Europe surprised Team USA 3-0 in the first game of the World Cup in Toronto. AP Photo via Canadian by Press Getty Images credit TSN.

There was so much build up for the first game of the World Cup of Hockey. A tournament born in ’96 which proved to be a memorable moment for American hockey with Team USA backstopped by tournament MVP Mike Richter stunning Canada in a compelling three game series, it’s back 20 years later in Toronto.

Unlike ’04 when it wasn’t as big a deal, this one feels like it. The anticipation. Clearly, fans are as is ESPN, which last had real hockey 12 years ago. For whatever reason, the 2016 version of Team USA wasn’t. After looking sharp in tune ups, they mailed it in- losing in dismal fashion to Team Europe 3-0 at Air Canada Centre.

Was it the early start time? Hardly. All we know is one team was ready to play while the other forgot to set the alarm clock. The aggressive and physical nature of coach John Tortorella’s Americans was seriously lacking. It led to a very disappointing uneven performance that can’t be explained. Defensemen pinched as did forwards at inopportune times, resulting in costly turnovers. Europe’s first two goals were a direct result of such chaos.

The first goal came off the stick of Slovakian sniper Marian Gaborik. He was the recipient of a great Frans Nielsen feed off a two-on-one. It happened in an instant with Ryan McDonagh caught up ice and Derek Stepan going to sleep defensively. Lazy back checking allowed the crafty Nielsen to create the odd-man rush and make a sweet dish in front for Gaborik, who beat American starter Jonathan Quick. Mats Zuccarello started the play in his own end by catching his Ranger teammate McDonagh with a quick outlet for Nielsen which led directly to the tournament’s first goal.

It was a tough first two periods for Quick. The 2012 Conn Smythe winner gave up three goals on nine shots. Sadly, none were his fault. The second European goal was another dreadful USA mistake. That it came from rating Hart winner Patrick Kane epitomized the emptiness in their game. He made a foolish pinch and got trapped along the boards by Tobias Rieder causing a ridiculous two-on-none break. Oilers’ youngster Leon Draisaitl was only too happy to work a perfect give-and-go with Nino Niederreiter allowing Draisaitl to get the return feed for an easy tap in past Quick.

Even when they did appear to score on a power play, it didn’t go their way. After firing some blanks, James van Riemsdyk had a puck go off his chest past Europe starter Jaroslav Halak. To the naked eye, it looked like he deliberately did it. So, Europe challenged. Interestingly, one angle appeared to show the puck bounce off Stepan’s helmet in front which looked like a good goal. But they had no luck. The goal was waved off keeping the game 2-0. After a couple of other good looks on the man-advantage with in particular T.J. Oshie missing on great set ups along with captain Joe Pavelski, they fell asleep late in the second on Europe’s third goal.

On an excuse me wrist shot from Jannik Hansen, Pierre-Edouard Bellemare was able to get inside position on a napping Ryan Suter to deflect the puck past Quick at 18:32. Veteran German defenseman Christian Ehrhoff drew the secondary helper on a good keep.

The third period was defensive minded by Team Europe. They made sure to keep a third man high and only sent one forechecker in. A more aggressive USA was able to get more chances and drew penalties. But they never could get to Halak, who finished with a game high 35 saves- including 11 for 11 facing the USA power play. On one, they fired from everywhere getting six through but Halak wasn’t having any of it. The Islanders starter was sharp and earned the game’s first star.

So, what happened? For starters, there was no Dustin Byfuglien with Tortorella opting to go with three left and three right defensemen. A big miscalculation on his part. Even if he loves Jack Johnson, who plays for him in Columbus, it’s inexcusable to not start the big, physical and imposing Byfuglien.

Kyle Palmieri was also a scratch in favor of Justin Abdelkader. Nothing against Abdelkader who brings net presence and works diligently. But Palmieri can do that and has higher skill. He’s coming off a career season in which he scored 30 goals. In a must win scenario against beast Canada, who’s currently ahead 5-0 on the poor Czech Republic, Palmieri has to be in as does Big Buff.

As far as the goalie, you can’t pin it on Quick. If not for at least three quality stops including one highway robbery on Tomas Tatar, it’s a blowout despite the 35-17 edge in shots. There just wasn’t as much compete from USA. Something that drove former ’96 members Brett Hull and Chris Chelios nuts between intermission with host Linda Cohn. Hull didn’t mince words. He practically has written them off with Canada next. Chelios was just as harsh. If anything, they were entertaining.

Gotta love Hull saying, “If they can’t beat Europe, how are they gonna beat Canada?”

You would expect a team of their character to get up for a top heavy Canadian roster being led by Sidney Crosby (goal, 2 assists), Patrice Bergeron (goal, assist) and Brad Marchand (2 assists) on a do everything top line.

One takeaway on Europe. They might be the oldest team in the eight team tournament. But they also feature two of the game’s best players in all world center Anze Kopitar, who was masterful. Plus Roman Josi, who is a top six defenseman. Plus Zuccarello, who reminded you again why he’s so crafty and so competitive. How about that block on McDonagh and the hit against his New York buddy. You gotta love it. Halak’s a bit streaky. He wasn’t challenged enough until the third.

Bottom line. The Americans didn’t play with enough purpose. Not enough edge or poise. They made selfish mistakes. The kind I got used to seeing from the Rangers. Yeah. I went there. Both McDonagh and Stepan had awful games. But it was a total team effort. A bad double minor for high sticking from Brandon Dubinsky on Zdeno Chara. A penalty you can’t take when you’re trailing by three early in the third.

Ryan Kesler took two penalties too. He was one of the few skaters who at least tried. Same for Blake Wheeler and Zach Parise. Pavelski did too but it wasn’t enough. The whole D was porous. I would say Matt Niskanen was their best and he was also a minus. John Carlson wasn’t active enough either. The Johnson boys didn’t. McDonagh and Suter get F’s.

They have the next two days off to correct the mistakes. They’ll have to be flawless against Canada. Especially at the ACC in Canadian crazy Toronto. They did split two games with them in the tune up. We’ll see if they can turn it on. If not, it’s a epic fail.

Watching the Czechs against Canada, at least they’re competing. They started well but couldn’t beat Carey Price. They’re over matched.

Tomorrow’s games feature Group B. First up, it’s Russia against Sweden Sunday at 3:30 PM. The night cap promises to be fun with the 23-and-under North America battling pesky Finland at 8. That is a must watch for any hockey fan.

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Byfuglien a scratch for USA vs Europe

Posted on September 17, 2016 by Derek

The World Cup gets going at the top of the hour. At 3 PM in Toronto, USA takes on Team Europe in round robin play. The game can be seen on ESPN2.

Surprisingly, USA coach John Tortorella has decided to scratch Dustin Byfuglien. He will sit while American mainstay Jack Johnson will play on the blue line. That seems kind of funny. Tortorella coaches the Blue Jackets and is showing loyalty to his guy. Johnson has always represented USA and done well. Maybe he prefers his skating.

Tortorella tried Byfuglien at forward looking to use his size and strength to wreak havoc during tune ups. But Byfuglien is most effective as a defenseman. Right now, USA’s back end features Jack and Erik Johnson, John Carlson, Ryan McDonagh, Matt Niskanen and Ryan Suter. That set up gives three left and three right D. Something coaches prefer. Not sure if that’s the logic. But I don’t like it.

As for the forwards, Kyle Palmieri will sit. That means Justin Abelkader is in along with David Backes, Brandon Dubinsky, Patrick Kane, Ryan Kesler, T.J. Oshie, Max Pacioretty, Zach Parise, Joe Pavelski, Derek Stepan, James van Riemsdyk and Blake Wheeler.

As expected, Jonathan Quick gets the start with Cory Schneider backing up. Ben Bishop in reserve.

We’ll see how it goes today.

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World Cup Preview: USA-Europe and Czech Republic-Canada kick off Saturday

Posted on September 17, 2016 by Derek
Jack Eichel and Connor McDavid

Jack Eichel and Connor McDavid are two prominent names featured on Team North America in what shapes up to be an exciting tournament in Toronto for the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. thehockeynews.com Getty Images/AP

Lately, I’ve been fighting writer’s block. Hence the lack of posts. We’re already into mid-September. The rookie camps have started. Traverse City just began. The Rangers lost their first game. I heard good reports on Jimmy Vesey. I don’t put too much stock in the tournament. But at least it’s a chance for some of our prospects to show what they got.

Speaking of big tournaments, the World Cup of Hockey finally gets going this afternoon. After all the warm ups including a USA split with Canada that resulted in an injury KO-ing Tyler Seguin (replaced by Ryan O’Reilly), Team USA will take on Team Europe at 3:30 EST on ESPN2. It’s part of group play. They’ll also battle Canada and the Czech Republic in the round robin format. Canada hosts the Czech Republic at 8 PM. With ESPN having a full slate of college football, that game can be seen on ESPNews. A channel virtually everyone gets.

It looks like John Buccigross and Kevin Weekes are the number one broadcast tandem who’ll be calling USA games. That’s good. I heard them for a warm up and they had good chemistry. Buccigross is hockey at ESPN. He remains as passionate as ever about the sport despite Bristol, Connecticut being out of the loop since ’04. Weekes is just awesome in any role. He excels. His instant analysis and insight is second to none. Honestly, I would love to see him one day replace Ed Olczyk on NBC. Sorry Pierre haters. He’s the best at his gig. But I doubt it’ll happen with Weekes contractually obligated to NHL Network. He’s the man!

Team B features old hat Steve Levy with Barry Melrose. Levy remains a good call who makes games exciting. Melrose is better suited for the studio where he excelled on NHL2Nite on the Deuce. He’s too chatty and isn’t a natural in the booth. I’ve seen plenty of complaints already about him and Levy. Here’s my take. It’s a cool hockey tournament that distracts us from the usual boring training camp crap and preseason yawn fest. If you really dislike what you hear that much, there’s a mute button. Or you can stream the games and maybe catch the Canadian Sports Net feed.

Honestly, I want to enjoy these two weeks for what they are. It’s not quite the Olympics. However, with the creativity of having fresh talent with North America featuring prominent emerging stars Jack Eichel, Aaron Ekblad, Johnny Gaudreau, John Gibson, Shayne Gostisbehere, Nathan MacKinnon, Auston Matthews, Connor McDavid, Matt Murray and many others including Jonathan Drouin and Brandon Saad, it definitely gives the 2016 World Cup a unique appeal. Having a bunch of kids 23 or younger team up on what should be a really entertaining team bodes well. I can’t wait to see what they add. So much young talent and skill on one roster. That’s who I’m pulling for.

I also love the idea of Team Europe. A concept that needed to happen with Euro-stars from other countries such as Anze Kopitar (Slovenia), Thomas Vanek (Austria) and Mats Zuccarello (Norway). A better idea that watching Slovakia which still features Zdeno Chara, Marian Gaborik, Marian Hossa get eaten up. Unfortunately, Frederik Andersen (Denmark) is out leaving goalie duties to Islander tandem Thomas Greiss and Jaroslav Halak. Caps’ backup Phillipp Grubaeur (Germany) is the emergency backup.

In assessing the Czechs, gone are the classic days of hockey legends Jaromir Jagr and Dominik Hasek. Astonishingly, Jagr still plays at a high level for the Panthers. If only he could score a goal in the postseason again. If Florida gets there for a second straight year, he’ll be 45. It’s also sad that Patrik Elias is no longer part of Team Czech Republic. His status remains uncertain on returning to the Devils. But I believe something will be worked out so the all-time franchise scoring leader can go out on his own terms.

The Czechs features vet Tomas Plekanec along with Eurostar Roman Cervenka. They don’t quite have as much high end skill. They’ll get by on more grit featuring Michael Frolik and Martin Hanzal. Hopefully, Ales Hemsky and Jakub Voracek will finish. Who knows about Milan Michalek and older sibling Zbynek Michalek. Ondrej Palat brings plenty of speed and penalty killing. They’ll rely heavily on starter Petr Mrazek. with Ondrej Palec and Michal Neuvirth other options.

When you compare that to a loaded Canadian roster featuring Sidney Crosby, Patrice Bergeron, Logan Couture, Drew Doughty, Ryan Getzlaf, Claude Giroux, Corey Perry, Alex Pietrangelo, Steven Stamkos, John Tavares, Joe Thornton, Jonathan Toews and Shea Weber, it’s clear who the favorite is. The goalies are Carey Price, Braden Holtby and Corey Crawford. It doesn’t matter who isn’t participating. No Jamie Benn, Seguin or Duncan Keith. No problem. Canada is so rich in talent all over both Northern, Central and Northwestern parts that everyone else including America pales in comparison. That’s why they’ve won golds in the last two Olympics and three of four. Only Sweden has gotten one doing so in ’06 on the back of Henrik Lundqvist by edging classic rival Finland.

USA has a very good roster. Even with Kevin Shattenkirk being passed over and Phil Kessel unable to participate due to off-season surgery, any team featuring rating NHL MVP Patrick Kane and ever clutch captain Joe Pavelski has a shot. Under demanding coach John Tortorella, they do play an in your face physical style at both ends. You know what. It works because the pieces fit. When you boast behemoth Dustin Byfuglien and most hated American Ryan Kesler, you can play a grinding style. The key will be to finish their checks and remain disciplined. Judging from the lines they used in exhibition, there’s chemistry. James van Riemsdyk and David Backes looked good. So did T.J. Oshie, who has a knack for big goals. Zach Parise is back too along with Blake Wheeler. He’ll do whatever it takes to score. If Max Pacioretty fits in, then they should have enough firepower. Derek Stepan adds creativity while former teammate Brandon Dubinsky should wreak havoc. Kyle Palmieri can do a bit of everything and Justin Abdelkader is a nuisance.

If there are two areas that are overlooked, it’s on the back end and in net. A blue line that includes John Carlson, Byfuglien, Ryan McDonagh and Ryan Suter should fare well. Matt Niskanen is overlooked. Two-time Stanley Cup winner Jonathan Quick gets the nod to start with the capable Ben Bishop and Cory Schneider proven.

It shapes up to be an exciting tournament. I’ll have recaps of the games I catch. Plus more on what to expect from proven rivals Finland and Sweden. Plus a very talented Russia, who’s always interesting to follow in such tournaments.

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World Cup Highlight: MacKinnon filthy penalty shot in North America’s 4-0 win over Europe

Posted on September 9, 2016 by Derek

The World Cup of Hockey hasn’t officially begun. But that hasn’t stopped fans from buzzing already over what they saw during last night’s Team North America 4-0 shutout over Team Europe.

In what was only a tune up with a rematch between the two most intriguing teams coming Sunday in Quebec City, Avalanche star center Nathan MacKinnon scored North America’s final goal on a filthy penalty shot. Using his speed to get around Mark Streit and in on Jaroslav Halak, he was pulled down. It set up one of those ultra cool hockey moments. The penalty shot. Mono y Mono. MacKinnon gave Halak plenty of dekes and head movement and converted with a sick backhand top shelf.

Here’s the call from ESPN’s John Buccigross and ever popular NHL Network studio analyst Kevin Weekes:

Team North America could be a force to be reckoned with once the preliminary round starts next week. Featuring young stars MacKinnon along with captain Connor McDavid, Jack Eichel and Maple Leafs’ 2016 first overall pick Auston Matthews, they should be the most fun team to watch. Every player is 23 or younger.

Even scarier, McDavid played with Eichel and Johnny Gaudreau, who scored one of the team’s goals. If they’re a line, watch out. The idea of having this young trio together is reason enough to tune in. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins also sniped. MacKinnon also scored the team’s first with a roof job.

North America also includes young Pens’ netminder Matt Murray, who went the distance pitching the shutout. John Gibson was the back up.

Notes: J.T. Miller returned in the third after missing some time with an injury. Marian Hossa left the game with an undisclosed injury.

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Fan overreaction over World Cup silly

Posted on September 4, 2016 by Derek
Mike Richter

In 1996, there was no more valuable player in the World Cup of Hockey than Mike Richter. AP Photo via Getty Images

Twenty years ago, the first World Cup of Hockey was introduced to fans all over the world. It was a rousing success. Eight countries participated in two different groups. There were three round robin games to determine who would advance to a playoff format that featured two quarterfinals with the winner taking on the first place team from each group who got an automatic bye into the semifinals.

It worked out well in 1996 with both Canada and the United States advancing to meet in a memorable best-of-three final. The road team prevailed in all three games. After Canada won Game 1 in Philadelphia 4-3 in overtime, the United States rallied back to take Games 2 and 3 in Montreal by identical 5-2 scores to stun the hockey world and win the tournament. Tony Amonte, Brett Hull, John LeClair, Keith Tkachuk and Doug Weight were all key factors in the Americans’ biggest win since the Miracle on Ice in 1980. However, they wouldn’t have prevailed without Tournament MVP Mike Richter, whose performance in net was heroic.

With the NHL agreeing to participate in the Winter Olympics starting in 1998, the World Cup became less important. The last time they had one was in 2004 right before Gary Bettman locked out the players leading to the regrettable cancellation of the entire ’04-05 season. All eight participants automatically qualified for the quarterfinals. Team USA wasn’t as successful going 1-2-0 in group play before upsetting Russia 5-3 to reach the semifinals. Finland eliminated them 2-1. Canada beat Finland for the championship 3-2. Vincent Lecavalier led them in scoring with seven points to win Tournament MVP. Martin Brodeur posted a 1.00 goals-against-average and .961 save percentage to make the All-Star team. Adam Foote also made it. Joe Sakic also had six points.

Twelve years have passed since. During that span, Canada has won back-to-back gold medals at the last two Winter Olympics, highlighted by Sidney Crosby’s golden goal in overtime to defeat Team USA in Vancouver of 2010. They repeated in Sochi, Russia by shutting out Sweden. Teemu Selanne won the Tournament MVP despite Finland winning bronze over USA. He had six points adding to an all-time leading total of 43 (24 goals, 19 assists) in Olympic play. Since Canada won gold at Salt Lake in ’02, only Sweden has won gold outside of the Canadians, doing so in ’06 at Turin, Italy thanks to the heroic play of Henrik Lundqvist. His last second save on Olli Jokinen preserved a one-goal win over rival Finland. It’s amazing to think that back then, he was just a rookie leading the Rangers back to the postseason for the first time since ’97.

International competition also takes place during the NHL playoffs. Players from teams who don’t qualify or eventually get eliminated participate in the World Championships. Russia usually saves their best for those tournaments. It’s a wonder why a country with as much talent as Russia doesn’t fare well in the Olympics or the World Cup. Even with the departure of star Pavel Datsyuk from the Red Wings returning home to play for St. Petersburg SKA with Ilya Kovalchuk and be closer to home with his family, Datsyuk is expected to participate in the World Cup with Artem Anisimov, Nikita Kucherov, Evgeny Kuznetsov, Evgeni Malkin, Alex Ovechkin, Artemi Panarin and Vladimir Tarasenko.

The great thing about these tournaments is it gives fans another chance to see some of the best players in the world. Unlike a few stars pulling out from Canada and USA, most Europeans are committed. The same can be echoed for a talented crop of young stars 23 and younger that comprise Team North America. When you can put Jonathan Drouin, Jack Eichel, Aaron Ekblad, Johnny Gaudreau, Shayne Gostisbehere, Seth Jones, Dylan Larkin, Nathan MacKinnon, Auston Matthews, Connor McDavid, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Brandon Saad all on the same roster that also features J.T. Miller and future Vezina contenders John Gibson and Matt Murray, there’s a lot to like. Having a young roster of North Americans separate from established stars on Canada and USA makes it more exciting.

The tournament will also feature Team Europe combining stars of other countries who aren’t involved. That features Zdeno Chara (Slovakia), Leon Draisaitl (Germany), Marian Gaborik (Slovakia) Marian Hossa (Slovakia), Roman Josi (Switzerland), Anze Kopitar (Slovenia), Frans Nielsen (Denmark), Tomas Tatar (Slovakia), Thomas Vanek (Austria) and Mats Zuccarello (Norway). Frederik Andersen (Denmark) should be the top goalie over Islander tandem Thomas Greiss (Germany) and Jaroslav Halak (Slovakia).

If there is a concern, it’s why they decided to push the start back. Unlike the first two World Cups, it doesn’t officially start until Sept. 17. The preliminary round runs from 9/17-22. Group A comprises Canada, Czech Republic, Team Europe and USA. Group B features Finland, Team North America, Russia and Sweden. Having the playoffs while NHL training camp is going on could hurt some teams. The format is similar with the top two finishers in each group automatically advancing to the semifinals where they’ll play a team from the other group. The winner of each makes the best-of-three final which takes place on 9/27, 9/29 and 10/1 if necessary all in Toronto. ESPN will be broadcasting games on both its stations. That includes a pre-tournament USA/Finland game on 9/13 in the nation’s capital.

The first two tournaments started at the end of August and wrapped up in mid-September in time for training camp. So, I can see why there’s some concern. Fans are more worried with key players from their teams getting injured. Lundqvist took a puck to the rib cage during a team practice for Sweden, which was falsely reported as him getting hurt playing golf. But he didn’t pull a Yoenis Cespedes. However, he informed reporters that he was okay and good to go for the tournament.

One thing that should be noted is that injuries can occur just as much in either team practice or preseason. Or did the cynics just choose to ignore that part. How many times have we seen players get nicked up in meaningless exhibition games? There still are too many to count. Like the NFL, the NHL schedules too many preseason games. But you won’t see the same complaints.

Of course, whenever a tournament of this magnitude is played, there’s always a risk. That is known going in. Nobody is forcing each player selected to participate. Duncan Keith pulled out due to recovering from off-season surgery. Jay Bouwmeester replaced him. Jamie Benn also pulled out and was replaced by Logan Couture. Canada has so much depth that it doesn’t matter who they lose. Devils forward Kyle Palmieri was added to USA to replace injured Ryan Callahan. If you’re curious to see what the names and numbers are on each roster, check out this link.

While injuries can always happen, there also is a positive that can come out of this. Many players who take part will be game ready by the start of the season. Playing in these games is different from preseason. They’ll be played at a different speed.

If there’s one thing we don’t like, it’s the four-on-four format. I don’t see why they had to change it from five-on-five to straight four-on-four. That does create more risk. It definitely will be played at a high tempo. Hopefully, there won’t be too much three-on-three like we saw last year during ’15-16. That was hectic, hair raising and exciting. I’m still not a proponent of it because there is even more risk deciding extra points that way.

Will injuries occur in the 2016 World Cup? It’s likely. These are some of the best players the sport has to offer. But with one less skater out from each side, you probably won’t see as many players sacrificing body and bones to block shots. It’ll be harder. The goalies will have more pressure on them, which should be fun.

Too many NHL games have become dull and predictable. As much as I admire players I cheer for blocking shots, it takes away from the game. There isn’t as much creativity. Offense is harder to come by. Passes and shots don’t get through as frequently. If you compared today’s games to ones played two decades ago, they’re not as fun. That explains why three-on-three overtime and shootouts are here to stay. The NHL needs it to justify the prices and keep it exciting. The season is too long. I would drop down from 82 to 72 just to keep players fresh.

No one wants to admit that. They’d rather argue with you for days on social media, parroting Bettman that the game has never been better. Faster. Yes. Better. Hardly. The World Cup will be a chance to give hockey fans more excitement. It may not be fully supported by all due to the silly schedule and the fact the NHL competes in the Olympics every four years. But it still can be fun.

Put me in the corner who can’t wait to see these games. Unlike the crummy preseason wastes which really is all about which young players can make the cut while hoping none of the regulars get hurt, there will be pride on the line. Even if it is a money grab for whoever wins it, it will be much better hockey.

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Pirri adds more depth for Blueshirts

Posted on August 28, 2016 by Derek
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Brandon Pirri is the newest Blueshirt creating even more of a crowd at forward. What happens when Oscar Lindberg is ready? What about the kids? Getty Images via AP

While I was at work, fans on my timeline were crowing about Brandon Pirri. I did a quick check to see if he was trending and didn’t find anything. Apparently, it was true. The Rangers indeed signed the 25-year old Pirri for a cheap one year, $1.1 million deal.

A former second round pick of the Blackhawks in the famed ’09 Draft, Pirri has moved around quite a bit. He spent a couple of years with the Panthers where he recorded a career best 22 goals over 49 games in ’14-15. However, he fell out of favor last year when Florida made the playoffs. His production slipped to 11 goals and 13 assists in 52 contests. The Panthers moved him to the Ducks where he totaled three goals and two helpers in nine games. But didn’t participate in their first round disappointment.

So, what is there to add? I’ve always liked Pirri. He’s another depth forward who’s capable of scoring double digit goals. Listed as a center, he didn’t take many faceoffs. So, you can forget about that. Basically, if he contributes offensively then it’s a good low risk signing. Added to new depth forwards Nathan Gerbe, Michael Grabner and Josh Jooris, Pirri will compete for ice-time on the fourth line. He can play third line if necessary.

However, with young prospects Pavel Buchnevich and Jimmy Vesey expected to be in a top nine that features Kevin Hayes, Chris Kreider, J.T. Miller, Rick Nash, Derek Stepan, Mika Zibanejad and Mats Zuccarello, it looks like Pirri will be in a fourth line competition with the newcomers and Alain Vigneault favorite Jesper Fast. What it means for Tanner Glass is probably the end. He’ll likely be ticketed for Hartford.

I’m most curious to see what happens when Oscar Lindberg comes back from off season surgery. The Blueshirts have a glut of forwards. Perhaps general manager Jeff Gorton will shuffle the deck. How many forwards does this team need? Credit Gorton for improving the team’s depth. He bolstered the bottom line and on paper, improved a penalty kill which was a sore spot. Where does Lindberg fit in? He would be the fourth center on the roster assuming Hayes stays at center. And what about Fast, who Vigneault loves to use on different lines?

I guess a lot will be answered by how quickly Buchnevich and Vesey adjust to an NHL training camp and preseason. They aren’t here to be sent down. However, Hartford remains an option if either needs some fine tuning. Most optimistic Ranger fans don’t want to hear that. But look at how many forwards they’ve added. How will Vigneault handle the young guys? Allotting ice-time for everyone won’t be easy.

Unless Gorton is considering using a Nash or a more cap friendly Zuccarello as trade bait to improve a weak blue line, there really are more questions than answers. For bit players like Gerbe, Grabner, Jooris and Pirri, this is their last chance. All are proven NHLers who can be used on the bottom line. Gerbe, Jooris and Grabner can kill penalties. Pirri is what he is. Is that 22-goal season a fluke? Why is he on his third team in a year? All good questions.

With the World Cup of Hockey training camp fast approaching, there will be a few players who won’t be in regular camp. But players such as Henrik Lundqvist, Miller, Stepan, Ryan McDonagh and Zuccarello will be in game shape by the time the season starts.

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Vesey Watch results in him being a Ranger

Posted on August 19, 2016 by Derek

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After a long thought out process, Jimmy Vesey chose the New York Rangers earlier this afternoon. The decision became official just before 6 PM. He signed an entry level contract and will be the newest Blueshirt added to a retool that includes top prospect Pavel Buchnevich and key acquisition Mika Zibanejad. All are talented forwards 23 or younger.

Added to a core featuring Derek Stepan (26), Chris Kreider (25) and J.T. Miller (23), the Rangers feature plenty of young talent capable of keeping them in the mix. Rick Nash is the elder statesman at 32 and Mats Zuccarello will turn 29 before training camp. Swedes Jesper Fast and Oscar Lindberg are each 23.

So, there’s a lot to like about what they have up front. General Manager Jeff Gorton also added solid fourth liners Josh Jooris, Michael Grabner and Nathan Gerbe. All of who have speed and can help improve a bad penalty killing unit which ranked near the bottom. A sore spot that got exposed against the ultra talented Penguins in a one sided first round.

As for Vesey, now that the 23-year old from Harvard University is here, expectations could be high. This is a left wing with speed and the ability to finish. The Hobey Baker winner tallied 24 goals and 22 assists for 46 points in 33 games in the ECAC as a senior. That followed up a breakout junior season that saw him notch 32 goals with 26 helpers for 58 points in 37 contests.

The key with any young player is for the organization to remain patient. Let’s find out how he looks in camp which includes practices and team scrimmages. It’s so easy to be unrealistic about what Vesey might bring. There’s so much excitement on Twitter that it borders on absurd. So many celebrities helped recruit him. The fans expect the world. Let’s wait and see what he becomes before projecting too high.

Most young players take time to develop. As we have discovered with Hayes, Kreider and Miller, there are peaks and valleys. Don’t forget Hayes made a similar jump from college to the NHL after not signing with the Blackhawks. It was the Rangers who landed him. He had a very good rookie year finishing strong. His second year was underwhelming. He’ll enter Year 3 with increased expectations and responsibilities with Derick Brassard gone.

I’ll conclude this post with one final thought. As much as #VeseyWatch annoyed me, I’m glad it finally ended. That the Rangers landed him can be viewed as positive. I just hope our fans are patient. It might not happen right away. If he can make the roster and start on the third line, that would be a good start.

Hopefully, that great genius coach of ours doesn’t screw around. Either way, we’ll see what Vesey can add to the team. See you in October.

 

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Rangers sign John Gilmour

Posted on August 18, 2016 by Derek

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In the middle of #VeseyWatch, the Rangers did add a college free agent defenseman Wednesday. They signed John Gilmour to an entry level contract.

The 23-year old played four years at Providence College. The Friars won their first Frozen Four national championship in 2015 carried by Flames’ goalie prospect Jon Gillies. During his junior season, Gilmour contributed four goals and seven assists in Hockey East. He came on with nine goal and 14 assists for a college best 23 points during his senior year.

Gilmour was originally selected by Calgary in the seventh round in the 2013 NHL Draft. The Flames didn’t sign him. So, the Rangers added some blue line depth. What is Gilmour exactly? I have no clue.

Obviously, he’ll start with Hartford if he’s good enough. The Rangers boast plenty of depth at the back end with Adam Clendening, Dan Girardi, Nick Holden, Kevin Klein, Ryan McDonagh, Dylan McIlrath, Brady Skjei and Marc Staal. Unless something drastic changes, both Girardi and Staal will be back. How effective they are remains to be seen.

I’m holding out hope for Ryan Graves to get a look sometime next year. But that’s only if things fall apart. The organization believes they can still contend. As long as Henrik Lundqvist is here, that’s their approach. I wish I was optimistic.

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Why Vesey Watch is annoying

Posted on August 17, 2016 by Derek

Men's Hockey vs. St. Lawrence

As the hot summer continues full of sunshine, humidity and thunderstorms, so does Vesey Watch. The hype surrounding the Harvard University four-year player who opted for free agency rather than signing with Nashville has been insane.

Consider that Jimmy Vesey is 23 already and never played professional. The former Predators’2012 third round pick developed well at Harvard over his final two years. In ’14-15, his 32 goals and 58 points paced the Crimson in the ECAC. His senior year, Vesey produced 24 goals and 22 assists totaling 46 points. That was good enough to win the Hobey Baker Award for top collegiate hockey player.

The odd part is Vesey beat out two better players. Kyle Connor put up 35 goals and 36 assists for 71 points at the University of Michigan. The difference being Connor did it as a 19-year old freshman after getting taken 17th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft. Vesey also beat out goalie Thatcher Demko. A highly rated American netminder who won 27 games with a 1.88 goals-against-average, .935 save percentage and 10 shutouts in his junior year at Boston College. The 20-year old went 36th overall in the second round to the Canucks in 2014.

So, how good is Vesey? He scored 56 goals his final two seasons after totaling 24 prior to his junior year. He’s a left wing who is listed at 6-1, 195 pounds. Originally from North Reading, Massachusetts, he still hasn’t made up his mind on who he’s signing with. The Sabres parted with a third round pick in June just to get his rights. But it may have been a waste. There’s no guarantee he’ll sign with Buffalo, who probably has the most upside. Unless he chooses Toronto or goes to Pittsburgh or Chicago, he’d be better off with the Sabres.

In his second day of free agency, Vesey met with Blackhawks, Rangers and hometown Bruins after meeting with the Devils, Islanders, Leafs and Penguins. At some point, he’ll decide who has made the best sales pitch. Hopefully, it ends soon.

Honestly, between all the desperation tweets from our fans along with others, it’s become a joke. How many ‘experts’ have ever seen Vesey play? I just looked at some highlights of his Harvard reel. He definitely has some skill. A superb skater who can finish and set up teammates. However, his success came against college competition. How quickly he transitions to the pro style will determine what kind of career he’ll have.

How good will he be? I have no clue. I don’t pretend to be an expert and automatically pencil him in the top nine. Whenever one of these college free agents become available, the height of expectation can be unrealistic.

I’ve gotten tired of reading my timeline. When you have fans already talking about Vesey as if he’s already a Ranger, it’s brutal. How about waiting first before proclaiming a Ranger, Devil, Islander, etc? The Rangers don’t exactly have as much room as say the Devils with all their cap space. They already are bringing one top prospect into the mix in Russian Pavel Buchnevich. I would like to see what he can do in camp, which is still a way off due to the World Cup.

So, what will Vesey decide? Hopefully, he makes the right decision for him and his family. Whoever he chooses should be an ideal fit with the opportunity for good ice-time and the chance to grow. If I were him, I’d choose a rebuilding team. He’ll have a better chance. Whether it’s Buffalo, New Jersey or Toronto, those would be my choices if I were a young player who wants to play in the NHL.

I guess what it comes down to is I’m just not biased. The Rangers remain a win now team with Henrik Lundqvist getting older. They can’t afford to wait. Time is slipping away. The Pens and Hawks are obviously win now teams who have won recently. They have the last two Stanley Cups. Pittsburgh just re-signed Matt Cullen for another year at a cheap $1 million. After narrowly missing the postseason the last two years, Boston remains an option. But does Vesey want the pressure of playing at home?

Whatever happens, I’m fine with it. I just want the madness to end. When you even have celebrities who play other sports chiming in, it gets to be a little bit much. Leave the kid alone. Let him choose minus the hoopla.

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