Mr. Hockey: Gordie Howe passes away at 88

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Derek
Gordie Howe.jpg

Mr. Hockey Gordie Howe (pictured above) as a Detroit Red Wing passed away at age 88 earlier today. One of the all-time greatest hockey players will never be forgotten. Image courtesy wikimedia.org 

On a sad emotional day in which they’re paying tribute to Muhammad Ali after burying him, another legend is gone. Gordie Howe passed away this morning peacefully at the age of 88.

Known as Mr. Hockey, Howe became one of the all-time greats starring for the Detroit Red Wings where he spent the first 25 years of a long career that included a stint in the World Hockey Association (WHA) with the Houston Aeros and New England Whalers after coming out of retirement. His final year came in ’79-80 with the expansion Hartford Whalers where he starred alongside son Mark Howe.

Originally from Floral, Saskatoon, Howe signed with the Red Wings as an 18-year old after playing one season with the Omaha Knights of the USHL where he tallied 22 goals and 26 assists with 53 penalty minutes in 51 games. In his rookie season of 1946-47, he totaled seven goals and 15 assists with 52 penalty minutes. By Year Three, Howe had improved to nearly a point-per-game registering 37 points in 40 contests with Detroit. At that point, he was already playing with Sid Abel and Ted Lindsay on the famed Production Line. The Red Wings made consecutive Stanley Cup Finals in ’48 and ’49 where they lost to the Maple Leafs. Howe put up eight goals and three assists in 11 playoff games during the ’49 postseason.

At the age of 23 in ’51-52, Howe led the NHL in scoring for his first Art Ross Trophy with 86 points (43 goals, 43 assists) in 70 contests to win the first of a then record six Hart Trophies as league MVP. The Red Wings won the Stanley Cup going undefeated by sweeping the Leafs and Canadiens. The Production Line combined for nine goals and 18 points. Abel left following 1952 and was replaced by Alex Delvechhio.

After being upset by the Bruins in 1953, the Red Wings won back-to-back Cups in ’54 and ’55. Each went seven games with Detroit prevailing over the Canadiens. In the repeat, Howe set a playoff record with 12 points in the Stanley Cup Final, finishing with a record 20 (9-11-20) with 24 penalty minutes. Sadly, that was the final time Howe won a Cup. Detroit would go without one for 42 years until a new generation of Winged Wheel stars featuring Steve Yzerman, Sergei Fedorov and Nick Lidstrom went back-to-back in ’97 and ’98.

Despite some more great seasons from Mr. Hockey which included his sixth and final Hart in ’62-63 when he totaled 38 goals and 48 assists for 86 points with an even 100 penalty minutes in 70 contests, the Red Wings fell short of another championship. By then, the cast had changed. Lindsay was sent packing in 1957 when he teamed with Doug Harvey to form the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA). Glenn Hall also was traded with Lindsay to the Blackhawks. Hall went onto win three Vezinas and a Conn Smythe.

The Wings still reached the Stanley Cup Finals four times between ’61 and ’66 thanks to a cast that featured Howe, Delvechhio, Norm Ullman, Parker MacDonald and Terry Sawchuk. But they never won again. Even with a 41-year old Howe posting a career high 103 points for the only time he hit the century mark in ’68-69, by then the Wings were no longer a playoff team. They missed the postseason in four of Howe’s final five seasons. At age 43, he had 23 goals and 29 assists totaling 52 points in ’70-71. His last NHL season until he returned one final time as a 52-year old with Hartford in ’79-80.

After being retired for two years due to a wrist problem, Mr. Hockey came out of retirement signing with the Houston Aeros of the WHA to play with sons Mark and Marty. It was a dream scenario. A father getting the chance to play with his sons. At 46, Howe still had it reaching 100 points in ’73-74. He hit triple digits again two years later. He spent four years in Houston before moving to New England. The Whalers lasted two years with the fading WHA before joining the NHL.

The Red Wings reached a handshake agreement with Hartford not to put in a claim for Howe. Had they, he would’ve returned to the only team he knew in the NHL because it was the last team he played for. Astonishingly, Mr. Hockey played in all 80 games with the Whalers finishing with 15 goals and 26 assists for 41 points. He added a goal and helper in a three game playoff before calling it a career.

howe-gretzky

Poetically, 1980 was the same year Wayne Gretzky entered the league with the Edmonton Oilers. One of the most popular photos is one a young Gretzky took with his boyhood idol. As fate had it, Gretzky would go to break most of Howe’s records including passing him for most goals in the NHL with the Los Angeles Kings. Gretzky would shatter the record for assists with his 1,963 by itself more than either Mark Messier’s point total (1,887), Jaromir Jagr’s (1,868) and Howe’s (1,850).

Before Gretzky, Howe had the most goals and points along with most Harts. The Great One won a record nine league MVP’s including eight in a row. However, along with Howe’s WHA totals of 174 goals and 334 assists for 508 points, Mr. Hockey still holds the professional record for most combined goals with 975.

Howe totaled 1,767 NHL games with 801 goals, 1,049 assists and 1,850 points while amassing 1,685 penalty minutes. He was as tough as they come. In an old school era where elbows and cheap shots were more common, Howe always paid back opponents. Known as Mr. Elbows, he would go after opponents for retribution. Built strong going six feet and 205 pounds, Howe would drop the gloves taking on all comers. He popularized the Gordie Howe hat trick which still is known today as a goal, assist and fight.

The Hockey News listed Howe as the third all-time greatest player behind Gretzky and Bobby Orr in a top 100 Players list all-time in 1998. Howe was put ahead of Mario Lemieux. If you asked my Dad, he’d put Orr and Howe 1-2 followed by Gretzky. He grew up in that old era when the game was tougher and it was harder to score. Howe never once scored 50 goals. However, he didn’t miss many games.

Speaking to how tough he was, Howe overcame a stroke on October 26, 2014. He made a great recovery and lasted almost two more years. Number 9 will never be forgotten. One of two legendary 9’s in hockey along with Maurice “Rocket” Richard. His rival during the 50’s when the Red Wings and Canadiens faced off. No doubt they’ll have a moment of silence for Mr. Hockey before Game 6 of the Stanley Cup between the Penguins and Sharks on Sunday.

When the NHL returns for 2016-17, emotions will run high in Hockey Town, USA. Another legend gone but not forgotten.

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Penguins on verge of Stanley Cup

Posted on June 7, 2016 by Derek
Stanley Cup Hockey

AP Photo by Eric Risberg/Getty Images

Sadly, the season is finally coming to an end. With a convincing 3-1 victory in Game 4 over the Sharks last night, the Penguins will bring a 3-1 series lead home to Pittsburgh. They can close out the Sharks on Thursday and win the Stanley Cup.

Admittedly, I haven’t watched much of the series. I’ve caught bits and pieces of each game. It’s hard to watch a bitter rival win the Cup. After watching most of Game 1, that was all I needed to see. I decided the Sharks had no shot. The Pens’ superior speed and relentless fore-check are too much to overcome. They’ve basically peppered Martin Jones throughout the first four games. If not for his strong play, the series would already be over.

That’s how dominant the Pens are. They are doing the same thing to a much better San Jose team that they did to the Rangers in a lopsided first round. The result so far is similar except every game has been close with Games 2 and 3 going to overtime. More a credit to Jones’ brilliance and the Sharks not giving up despite being largely outplayed.

It’s hard to believe one goal decided the first three games. In Game 1, it was Nick Bonino winning it with two and a half minutes left from Kris Letang off great pressure from Conn Smythe hopeful Phil Kessel. Game 2 needed sudden death. In it, Sidney Crosby beat Logan Couture on an offensive draw, setting up rookie Conor Sheary in the slot for the overtime winner. Afterwards, Couture complained about Crosby ‘cheating’ on face-offs, leading to a firestorm. Everyone does. Is it any surprise Sid got away with it? It still didn’t explain the blown coverage that left Sheary wide open.

Game 3 looked like it would go the same way. But Joel Ward forced overtime. This time, it was the Sharks who pulled it out. Joonas Donskoi pulled off a sensational move around the net firing home the winner short side through two Pens and past Matt Murray. The rookie netminder is Kessel’s main competition for playoff MVP. He has a 2.09 goals-against-average and .925 save percentage. Kessel leads the Pens in scoring with 10 goals and 11 assists with a plus-six rating. Half of the 10 have come on the power play. But it’s been the HBK line with Bonino and that guy, Carl Hagelin who have been the Pens’ most consistent players. They’ve combined for 19 goals and 32 assists totaling 51 points with a plus-24. Domination at 5-on-5.

It was the heady Hagelin who found a cutting Eric Fehr for the put away goal with over two minutes left icing another desperate Sharks’ comeback on Monday. It’s poetic that the pesky Swede who ended the Pens’ season a year ago in the first round is having a great postseason. He did this once before in 2014 on a line with Brad Richards and Martin St. Louis. The difference is he’s probably a better player now. Like most of his former Ranger teammates, he experienced heartache and pain two straight years. That experience undoubtedly has helped him. The chemistry with Bonino and Kessel is special. Their combination of speed, skill and play-making along with relentlessness is why they’ve succeeded.

Of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Mike Sullivan. It’s funny how things turn out. I was told he was the real reason behind John Tortorella’s dismissal. To be fair, the power play was awful. It wasn’t until he was sacked with Tortorella in Vancouver that Sullivan finally went his own way. He worked as an assistant under Ken Hitchcock in St. Louis. Then was hired by the Penguins to coach their AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, replacing John Hynes, who was hired by the Devils.

For a while, it looked like the Pens were going nowhere under beleaguered second-year coach Mike Johnston. They continued to play a dull style which didn’t fit with stars Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang. Finally, he was replaced in December by Sullivan, who adjusted the system to a more aggressive style, emphasizing team speed and encouraging pinches by D. That included the acquired Trevor Daley, who didn’t fit in Chicago. A skating defenseman with offensive skill, he meshed well under Sullivan. Then Hagelin came over from the Ducks in a deal that sent David Perron to Anaheim. A pair of moves made by GM Jim Rutherford that improved the Pens.

Sometimes, all it takes is a coaching change to wake up a underachieving team. The Pens were lifeless under the bland Johnston. However, the fiery Sullivan who had success in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton brought up Sheary and Bryan Rust. The two speedsters were great fits. He also used Bonino the way he should’ve been. Ironically, it took a Malkin injury for Bonino to get his chance with Hagelin and Kessel. Kessel needed the puck more. He didn’t have it enough with Crosby or Malkin. He also needed to be pushed. The hard working Hagelin and unselfish Bonino were great fits. Once Malkin returned in the first round, he played on a different line. Sullivan didn’t mess with chemistry.

That’s what good coaches do. The biggest difference with Sullivan is his passion. Similar to Tortorella, he doesn’t accept undisciplined play. The past few postseasons saw the Pens come apart with even their biggest stars taking bad penalties. It didn’t take much to get Crosby and Malkin off their game. Under Sullivan, we haven’t seen that. Each has been more disciplined. Even if they still get away with cheap stuff, they’ve led by example.

It’s still hard to believe even without Daley, who was done last round with a broken ankle, the Pens’ blue line hasn’t missed a beat. While Letang gets most of the hard minutes, Olli Maatta has returned and played well. Every defenseman has chipped in. Even vets Ben Lovejoy and Ian Cole, who scored the game’s first goal in last night’s win.

There’s also something to be said for how much the Pens are willing to sacrifice for the good of the team. Players have blocked shots and kept most of the chances to the outside. They play well in front of Murray, who returned to win Games 6 and 7 against the Lightning. Ironically, one of those kids Rust did damage scoring some huge goals.

It’s Sullivan’s trust in all his players that has allowed the Pens to be in this position. They’re a four line team. They no longer rely on just Crosby and Malkin’s skill. They outwork opponents. So, even with neither having sensational postseasons, here they are a game away. They can clinch the franchise’s fourth Cup on home ice. Something they didn’t do in ’91, ’92 or ’09.

Unless the Sharks can summon up the energy, it’s hard to see this series getting extended to a Game 6 back in San Jose. They’ll need much better efforts from Joe Pavelski, Brent Burns, Couture and Paul Martin, who has been badly exposed. Without Tomas Hertl, it’s already tough. Can they steal a game in Pittsburgh and make it interesting? Jones will probably have to stand on his head.

The Pens look like a team of destiny. We’ll see if they can wrap it up in two days.

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Islanders take risk with Cizikas

Posted on June 2, 2016 by Derek
Johnny Boychuk, Casey Cizikas, Matt Martin

Islanders goalscorer Matt Martin celebrates with teammates Casey Cizikas and Johnny Boychuk during a home win over the Devils. AP Photo by Kathy Willens/Getty Images

Earlier today, the Islanders announced that they had agreed to a new contract with restricted free agent Casey Cizikas. They re-signed the checking center to a surprising five-year deal worth $16.75 million. Previously, the 25-year old Cizikas made $1.2 million in ’15-16 with a cheap cap hit of $1 million. Now, his average will be $3.35 million thru 2021.

That’s a enormous increase for a solid role player. Cizikas has been a fixture anchoring the Isles’ fourth line. Playing with grinders Matt Martin and Cal Clutterbuck, Cizikas has found great chemistry under Islanders’ coach Jack Capuano, who isn’t shy about using them. In some games, they were a third line who brought a lunch pail work ethic to their shifts by taking the body and delivering a strong fore-check.

In its second year together, the trio combined for 33 goals with Clutterbuck scoring 15 times while Martin had 10 and Cizikas eight. Originally an Isles’ 2009 fourth round pick, Cizikas continued to excel. In 80 games during the season, he had eight goals with a career high 22 assists and 30 points. He ranked third in face-off percentage winning 48.9 percent behind John Tavares and Frans Nielsen. Most came at even strength where he went 383-and-370. He also was a fixture on the penalty kill going 83-and-113 while contributing a shorthanded goal and three shorthanded points.

The question for Islanders’ President and GM Garth Snow is does this signal the end of Martin’s stay in Brooklyn. The NHL’s league leader in hits finished with 365 to go with new personal bests in goals (10) and points (19) with 119 penalty minutes. Since debuting in ’09-10, he’s become a fan favorite due to his physical play and toughness. He combined with Clutterbuck for 25 goals and 653 hits. The 27-year old Martin can become unrestricted next month. How much of an increase will he want after earning $1.3 million?

With the Isles’ attention on trying to re-sign key UFA’s Nielsen and Kyle Okposo, Martin could wind up elsewhere for more money. In a recent interview on NBC with Bruce Beck, he spoke about what the team did in the past. It would seem that a popular player who plays with the passion he does should draw interest from other teams. A possible fit could be the rebuilding Maple Leafs, who will be in on Steven Stamkos. They love toughness. Martin would be a good fit to ride shotgun if they sign Stamkos. He’s also from Ontario.

By committing so much to Cizikas in years and salary, it would seem the Isles are preparing for either Nielsen or Okposo to leave. They’ll be hard pressed to bring back one. Okposo is four years younger but could command north of $6 million. His ’15-16 salary was $4.5 million with a cap number of $2.8. Nielsen earned $3.5 million with a cap hit of $2.75. They’re both valuable. Okposo plays with Tavares while Nielsen normally centers the second line and doubles on the power play and penalty kill. He’s also over 50.0 percent on draws.

If I were to guess, I think the Islanders would like to have Nielsen back due to his versatility. He can play in any situation and is that underrated second line pivot that supplies secondary scoring. The issue is who will become Tavares’ running mate. They’re still waiting on Ryan Strome, who took a step back. Anders Lee is coming back from a broken left fibula. Brock Nelson had a good season scoring 26 goals but had a disappointing postseason with only one goal.

The organization is hoping highly rated prospect Michael Dal Colle can be part of the team in ’16-17. He scored 35 goals and 45 assists totaling 80 points with Oshawa and Kingston of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). In nine playoff games with Kingston, he tallied six goals and 12 helpers for 18 points. In three games with Bridgeport, he had an assist. Dal Colle is a big scorer who could be that missing piece. It’s just a question of when.

Josh Ho-Sang should also be in the mix. The controversial 2014 first round pick finished with 82 points (19-63-82) with Niagara of the OHL. He added six goals and 20 helpers for 26 points. He had 26 points (5-21-26) in 18 playoff games. Will he come into training camp more focused or remain a headcase?

2015 first round pick Mathew Barzal is also a center with a bright future. He totaled 88 points (27-61-88) in 58 contests with Seattle of the Western Hockey League (WHL). In 18 playoff games, he scored five goals with 21 helpers for 26 points. Figure him to spend one more year in Seattle before joining the Islanders.

Whatever happens the rest of the summer, the Islanders should continue to be heard from due to their large pool of talent.

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Sam Rosen wins Foster Hewitt Award

Posted on June 2, 2016 by Derek

Sam Rosen.jpg

Sam Rosen will finally be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. The legendary TV voice of the Rangers for over 30 years on MSG won the Foster Hewitt Award. He will be inducted into the broadcast wing after the NHL Broadcasters Association revealed that he and Bob Verdi were the winners today.

The 68-year old German grew up in Brooklyn after his family moved when he was two-years old. Of Polish and German roots, Rosen has been a fixture on MSG for four decades. After starting as a pregame host from 1982-84, he took over the microphone from legendary mentor Jim Gordon in 1985.

Originally, Rosen teamed with former Hall of Famer Phil Esposito, who took over as Rangers general manager in 1986-87. His next partner was the one and only John Davidson. The former goalie who backstopped the club to the Stanley Cup Final in 1979, was a natural as a color analyst. Forming a 20-year partnership, they became known as Sam and JD.

The most memorable run for Rosen and Davidson was during 1994 when the Rangers finally erased a 54-year drought to win the Stanley Cup. The best part was that this was before network TV got exclusive rights. So, that meant we got to hear Sam and JD for the memorable Game 7’s against the Devils and Canucks. They had such great chemistry that it made enjoying the run that much more.

Davidson’s signature was “Oh Baby!” whenever a Ranger player did something significant. Whether it be a big goal or huge save from Mike Richter, Davidson was the perfect complement to Rosen. Of course, Rosen had his own. Whenever the team scored on a power play, he’d scream:

“He scores! It’s a power play goal!” Something that’s not as common these days with our team’s ineptitude on the man advantage.

Most memorable was Rosen’s final call when Craig MacTavish won the last faceoff from Pavel Bure to preserve an emotional Rangers’ 3-2 Game 7 win on home ice to finally win the Cup.

“The waiting over! The New York Rangers are the Stanley Cup Champions! And this one will last a lifetime!”

A call we still must cherish. For many older generation fans who never thought they’d see the franchise win a championship, it really registered. I’ll never forget my Dad’s reaction. How he couldn’t believe they really won. We’ve been lucky to have Rosen in our living rooms. A nice man who wears his emotions on his sleeves. Someone we’ve met a few times. He couldn’t be classier.

Rosen has also worked NFL games on Fox for two decades. He’s been superb at that too. Of course, it flies under the radar to his dedication as the Rangers’ official voice. Don’t forget his contributions to NHL Radio working the Stanley Cup Finals. This is a very deserving man who waited a long time.

It’s nice to see that he’ll finally be honored, taking his place among hockey’s great voices. Indeed, this one will last a lifetime!

 

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Ulf Samuelsson to coach Hurricanes’ AHL affiliate

Posted on May 31, 2016 by Derek

The Rangers won’t have Ulf Samuelsson back on their coaching staff next season. The top assistant on Alain Vigneault’s staff was hired by the Hurricanes today. He’ll coach Carolina’s AHL affiliate Charlotte Checkers.

A former Ranger who was part of the team’s run to the Eastern Conference Final in ’97, Samuelsson was brought in by Vigneault when he was hired three years ago. He did a solid job the first two years which included a trip to the Stanley Cup Final and reaching Game 7 of the Conference Finals.

It didn’t go as well in the third year for Samuelsson or Vigneault. The decline of vets Dan Girardi and Marc Staal made life more challenging on the back end. It contributed to mightily to the defense struggling. Once a lock down team, the Rangers became notable for giving up goals late in periods and blowing leads. They also had one of the worst penalty killing units, taking a sharp decline after losing speedster Carl Hagelin.

Samuelsson was in charge of the defense. Unlike past seasons, he often mixed and matched pairings with inconsistency. Along with Vigneault’s loyalty to Girardi, they overplayed a defenseman who was never himself due to injuries. He was kept on the top pair too long before being moved down. Still a key part of the penalty kill along with Staal, he had his minutes cut at even strength down the stretch. Eventually, a poor Girardi game in the playoffs led to him being scratched before returning for Game 5 of the first round against Pittsburgh.

It wasn’t all negative. Samuelsson got a chance to work with rookies Dylan McIlrath and Brady Skjei. Both of who spent time with Hartford assistant Jeff Beukeboom. The former ’94 Cup hero should replace Samuelsson on the bench. It’s the only rational move. His work with McIlrath resulted in the former first round pick improving dramatically. Even though the coaching staff never trusted him enough, he had a good first season and should be part of the solution. So should Skjei, who definitely will have a spot regardless if Keith Yandle re-ups. His skating and poise is impressive. Skjei could be a fixture on the Rangers’ blue line for years.

As for McIlrath, they certainly lacked that physical element when he didn’t play. A big and tough throwback player similar to Beukeboom, he is needed to supplant Girardi, who can’t be a full-time regular anymore. Even if he comes back fully healthy, it’s hard to see him ever regaining the form that made him a shutdown player.

Depending on what happens with Yandle, that could determine what the D looks like. I’ve been told he wants to stay and might be willing to take a home discount. Ultimately, time will tell if that’s true. There’s still a month left before the July 1 frenzy.

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Conference Final Observations

Posted on May 24, 2016 by Derek
Joe Pavelski

Joe Pavelski celebrates a goal in the Sharks’ 6-3 win over the Blues in Game Five of the Western Conference Final. He leads all players with 12 goals this postseason and has San Jose a win away from its first ever Stanley Cup Final. AP Photo by Jeff Roberson/Getty Images

With a long summer ahead in the Big Apple for the area locals, the NHL Playoffs are wrapping up. The Conference Finals are almost complete. We could know in the next couple of days who will be playing for the Stanley Cup.

Joe Pavelski’s two goals including a unreal tip for the game-winner has the Sharks a win away from their first ever Stanley Cup Final. The San Jose captain scored a game-tying power play goal late in the second on a great feed from Joe Thornton. He then redirected a Brent Burns point shot past St. Louis starter Jake Allen less than 20 seconds into the third- leading the Sharks to a 6-3 win over the Blues in Game Five of the Western Conference Final.

San Jose has never been this close before. They’ve played in the Conference Final round before but never had success. In a unpredictable series against another Cup starved city, they will go back to Shark Tank with a chance to clinch tomorrow night.

For the Blues, they couldn’t repeat a strong Game Four performance in which they got to Martin Jones, chasing him from the net in a 6-3 win to tie the series. They blew two one-goal leads Monday night. Despite continued brilliance from rookie Robby Fabbri and timely scoring from vet Troy Brouwer, it wasn’t enough against a resilient Sharks, who bounced back from a miserable Game Four. Their relentlessness resulted in Logan Couture getting the puck to Thornton behind the net. Like Wayne Gretzky, that’s his office. He easily found a wide open Pavelski for a one-time finish past an out of position Allen, who was in for Brian Elliott for a second straight game. Then some Pavelski hand eye coordination at the sixteen second mark of the third was enough to hold up.

San Jose did a masterful job in the second half of the final period shutting down the neutral zone. They made Jones’ job easier by allowing him to see the shots. He stopped all seven to earn the win after getting replaced by James Reimer last game. It was the Sharks’ attention to detail that limited the Blues, frustrating their players and fans who were hoping they would be one step closer. So relentless were the Sharks that they pinned the Blues in in the final minute with rookie Chris Tierney scoring into an open net on a wrap around from Thornton. Joel Ward added his second of the game for the final margin.

Can the Blues go into San Jose and win? Sure. They have enough grit and experience to get it done. David Backes has had a great postseason. The captain has been on the score sheet and led by example. He’s scored clutch goals and delivered crunching hits. No doubt he’ll be a hot commodity this summer. If there’s been a disappointment, it’s been Vladimir Tarasenko. The 40-goalscorer has not scored in the series and has been held to just two assists. The Blues can’t win without him. He performed in the first two rounds scoring seven goals. If he doesn’t figure it out soon, St. Louis could be done.

A final thought on the Blues. After going to Allen and seeing his team respond, will vet coach Ken Hitchcock go back to Elliott for tomorrow’s elimination game? He was the guy all postseason before Allen started Game Four. Maybe he should get Elliott back in. We’ll see.

Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference Final has been excellent. There have been twists and turns between two evenly matched teams. But it’s the resilience of the battle tested Lightning that has them in position to close out the Penguins tonight in Tampa for Game Six.

Even without captain Steven Stamkos, here are the Bolts a win away from consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances. They showed heart in the same round last year, bouncing back from a lopsided Game Six home defeat to shutout the Rangers 2-0 in Game Seven at MSG. This time, coach Jon Cooper has his team here without starter Ben Bishop, who went down in Game One.

Full credit to Russian backup Andrei Vasilevskiy. He’s faced more shots than either Matt Murray or Marc-Andre Fleury. After an off second year during the regular season, he’s stepped up by making big saves when his team has needed it. Case in point, the enormous save to rob Phil Kessel of making it 3-0 in Game Five. That allowed his team to come back. Consecutive goals from Alex Killorn and Nikita Kucherov tied the score. However, as they did at the end of the first with defenseman Brian Dumoulin scoring at 19:59, the Pens retook the lead wit 50 seconds left in the second when Chris Kunitz followed up a Evgeni Malkin shot for a 3-2 lead.

Most teams would be dead after giving up two goals in the final minute. For myself, I felt like I was living a recurring nightmare from the Ranger season. One thing about the Lightning. They compete. They’re never out of a game. Even with the Pens closing in on a big win, the Bolts’ most dangerous scorer burned them. Kucherov was able to beat Fleury on a wrap around tying the score with 3:16 left in regulation. Tyler Johnson made a quick drop and Kucherov had so much speed, he went around the net and slipped the puck in for his team-leading 11th. His 11 goals trail only Pavelski (12).

The goal stunned the Penguin crowd. Both teams had chances to win it before overtime. But the game required sudden death. Similar to how quickly Sidney Crosby won Game Two, the Lightning struck in the first minute for the OT winner. Kucherov found defenseman Jason Garrison cutting to the net. He let go of a shot from the left circle that caromed off a sliding Pens’ defenseman and banked off Johnson in front at 53 seconds of overtime. That allowed them to complete a come from behind 4-3 OT win in Game Five.

Tonight, they’ll have a chance to finish the Pens at home. But if we’ve learned anything about these playoffs, home ice doesn’t mean much. Unless the Bolts jump on the Pens, I expect the Pens’ best effort. They are a deep team with four lines. Crosby is coming off a bad game. So too is Kris Letang, who was on for all four goals against. The same defenseman who got away with a stick foul in Game Five will need a much better effort. He might want to focus on sticking to hockey instead of the cheap shots he delivers that mostly go overlooked. As to why, it’s inexplicable.

The Pens’ most effective line continues to be the HBK Line of Carl Hagelin, Nick Bonino and Kessel. Hagelin set up a goal in Game Five. Kessel was kept off the sheet despite that glorious chance which really could’ve made a difference. They’re relentless. What isn’t known is why Crosby has been up and down this postseason. If the Pens are to force a Game Seven back in their barn, they’ll need a throwback game from their best player.

Coach Mike Sullivan has decided to go back to Murray for tonight. A good move in our estimation. Fleury gave up a bad short side goal to Killorn which turned the tide. He also was slow in reacting to Kucherov’s tying goal. The Pens’ veteran starter also showed a tendency to go down early exposing the top of the net. Obviously, if Murray doesn’t win tonight, there will be a ton of second guessing in the Steel city. However, this is his run. He did nothing wrong in the Pens’ 4-3 Game Four loss. They were miserable for two periods falling behind 4-0. A game in which familiar face Ryan Callahan led by example scoring in the first minute after indicating to NBC’s Pierre McGuire how his team would play following a Game Three loss.

It’ll be interesting to see if the Bolts can nail it down. The Pens are deeper. However, they did lose key defenseman Trevor Daley to a broken ankle. A sad injury you never want to see. Callahan finished a check and Daley fell awkwardly resulting in the injury that ended his season. The hit was okay. It was a bad landing. Olli Maatta was able to return in Game Five and played well. He stayed onside and set up a goal while going plus-two in 17 and a half minutes.

But in order for the Pens to prevail, they need their best players to be their best. Malkin has been more dangerous than Crosby the last two scoring and setting up a goal in each loss. He and Kunitz have been very good together. Crosby had his moment with his first ever playoff overtime goal in Game Two. He followed that up with a huge power play goal in Game Four. A game where he could’ve been penalized for a slew foot. He’s faced tough checking from another familiar face Brian Boyle. It’s interesting how our former players are playing roles for Tampa.

Meanwhile, Anton Stralman hasn’t been good. He’s gotten victimized a few times on Pens’ goals. He doesn’t look fully recovered from his fractured fibula. He has looked better offensively but he’s gotten beaten more than usual. Look for the Pens to exploit that with their speed. Victor Hedman has been mostly on top of his game. With the exception of being beaten badly on Dumoulin’s put back with one second left the other night, he’s having another monster postseason. Maybe next year, the smooth skating Swede who went second overall in the ’09 Draft behind John Tavares will finally get recognized as one of the league’s top defensemen.

So, what do I think will happen? I just have a hunch that the Pens won’t let their season end. I think it’s going seven. I also feel similarly about the Blues tomorrow. I hope I’m wrong. Nothing against St. Louis. I just want to see the Sharks win. With Thornton silencing the critics and Mr. Shark Patrick Marleau doing the same on what is a quality team coached by former 2012 Devil architect Pete DeBoer. Ironic how you have a former Devils coach with a former pupil Dainius Zubrus on the fourth line.

There’s cool story lines everywhere. I could care less what NBC wants. I would be more than happy with a Lightning vs Sharks Stanley Cup Final. We’ll see what happens.

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Remembering Howie Rose’s best calls

Posted on May 18, 2016 by Derek

In tribute to Howie Rose, here are his most memorable calls.

John Tavares wins Game Six in overtime sending the Islanders to the second round for the first time since ’93:

Stephane Matteau scores in double overtime of Game Seven in the Eastern Conference Final prompting this legendary call from Rose, who was the Rangers’ radio voice:

Shawn Bates scores on a penalty shot in the first round on Curtis Joseph helping the Islanders win the game:

Howie Rose’s radio call of Mark Messier’s hat trick in the third period of Game Six fulfilling a Guarantee:

Posted in NY Islanders, NY Rangers, Video Of Day | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Howie Rose leaving Islanders

Posted on May 18, 2016 by Derek

Howie Rose

Earlier today, Howie Rose announced that he won’t be returning to the Islanders next season. After 21 years of being the face and voice of the New York Islanders on Fox Sports New York and MSG-Plus, the 62-year old Rose is leaving the organization.

Citing his family and wanting to actually have an off-season, the legendary play-by-play man who became famous for his “Matteau! Matteau!” call in Game Seven of the Rangers’ double overtime classic in the 1994 Eastern Conference Final- has decided to cut back on a taxing schedule. He’ll focus on continuing to be the radio voice of the New York Mets on WWOR 710 AM Radio.

“It’s the textbook definition of mixed emotions. That’s exactly what it is. I don’t know that I’ve ever been more conflicted about a decision I have had to make in my life. But I’m confident I made really the only one I could make at this point in time in my career and life,” Rose revealed in a story that appeared in New York Newsday.

Following the memorable call of Stephane Matteau winning a classic ’94 Eastern Conference Final en route to a Stanley Cup with the Rangers, Rose cashed it in by signing on with the rival Islanders where he became their TV voice- replacing legendary Jiggs McDonald. Ironically, the 77-year old still did games filling in for Rose when he couldn’t make it. Something that became more common the past few seasons.

“Strictly, it’s the idea that I could have an offseason like most people who do what I do for a living. Maybe my wife would disagree on some level, but I think it’s only right that she has her husband around more than he’s been. Again, that might be open to her interpretation.

“But at the end of the day it’s something that I do with, as I say, the epitome of mixed emotions.”

For many years, the Islanders didn’t have any success after Rose took over in the booth. Following the run to the ’93 Conference Final, the franchise only appeared in one more postseason the rest of the decade, getting swept out in the first round by the Rangers. Due to poor ownership and mismanagement from Mike Milbury, they missed the playoff seven consecutive seasons.

After Milbury made some risky moves acquiring Alexei Yashin from Ottawa for a insane package that included Zdeno Chara and future first round pick and star Jason Spezza, the Islanders were on their way back thanks to also trading for former Sabres’ captain Michael Peca. Those deals along with the crazy trade of former first round pick Roberto Luongo and Olli Jokinen to Florida for Oleg Kvasha and Mark Parrish, helped the Isles make the postseason in ’01-02. Mad Mike as he became known moved franchise goalie Luongo and drafted Rick DiPietro first overall in the 2000 NHL Draft.

Their first series was a classic against the Maple Leafs. The home team won every game including the Leafs, who prevailed in Game Seven of the first round. Unfortunately, Peca sustained a serious injury on a dirty hit by Darcy Tucker in Game Five. It resulted in a torn left ACL and MCL ending his season. Astonishingly, no penalty was called. Following the injury, Peca was never the same player. He stuck around for two more seasons helping the Isles to two more first round appearances. Ultimately, the club wasn’t good enough falling short against top seeds Ottawa and Tampa in five-game series. The Lightning won the Cup in 2004.

Interestingly, Peca was traded to the Oilers for Mike York and helped the underdog Oilers reach the 2006 Stanley Cup Final. After missing the postseason, the Islanders made it the following year. But it was again disappointment for Rose as the team was eliminated in five games by the Sabres.

Sadly, that was DiPietro’s final postseason appearance. The All-Star goalie never got to have great success due to recurring knee problems that led to multiple surgeries. His bad injury luck included a concussion and groin issue. Ironically, he’s become a entertaining listen on ESPN Radio with Alan Hahn. DiPietro also is a frequent guest analyst on Isles’ telecasts between intermission on MSG-Plus. He traded barbs with legendary radio talkie Mike Francesa, who critiqued the Islanders for not appearing on his radio show or marketing themselves.

As for Rose, he had to wait six more years to call another Isles’ playoff game. In ’11-12, they lost a fiercely fought six-game first round series against the Penguins. John Tavares was brilliant. Ultimately, Brooks Orpik was the unlikely hero scoring in overtime at Nassau Coliseum. Following a playoff miss, they returned in another closely fought first round against the Capitals. Unfortunately, that also had a cruel ending with Washington’s Evgeny Kuznetsov doing in the Islanders as they lost in seven.

It took all the way until this Spring for the franchise to finally advance past the first round. Luckily, Rose was able to call the Isles’ signature moment of the team’s rebuild under captain Tavares. With the club trailing the Panthers 1-0 at Barclays Center in Game Six, it was Tavares who tied it with less than a minute left. Poetically, he would win it in overtime on a great wraparound beating of all people, Luongo to finally send the Islanders to the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

“That’s the one,” Rose said. “I don’t know how else to describe it but that it was my little Stanley Cup for the Islanders because we don’t do any more than the first round. I was really starting to become afraid that I would be known as the Horace Clarke of the Islanders and so when Tavares scored that goal it was a release, even a catharsis to an extent.”

He admitted that he knew that was probably his final game. Due to the NHL Playoff television package, home announcers don’t get to call more than a round anymore. Gone are the days where you could watch your favorite broadcasters call your team’s postseason. As a huge Rangers’ fan, I feel truly blessed to have had Sam Rosen and John Davidson AKA Sam and JD, for the whole ’94 Cup run. But we also had Rose on the radio with also the memorable call of Mark Messier’s natural hat trick in Game Six fulfilling his Guarantee.
Rose has always been my favorite. His passion shines through. It’s funny because I’m a Yankee fan. So, when the Mets finally got back to the World Series last year, I enjoyed listening Rose describe the action. His energy and excitement is what makes him one of the best. I make it a point to catch Mets games on the radio from time to time just to hear him. That’s how much I love Rose.
I’m saddened to know that he will no longer be calling hockey games. But also understand the reasoning. It was coming. It’s truly a sad day for New York sports. I’m glad he’ll remain the voice of the Mets. Apologies to Gary Cohen. Rose is a legend. Hopefully, he sticks around long enough to call a Mets world title. I’ll bet that our resident Devil and diehard Mets fan Hasan would echo those sentiments.
Posted in Battle News, NY Islanders | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Former Black and Blueshirts still haunt fans in Conference Final

Posted on May 14, 2016 by Derek
Dominic Moore is congratulated by Brian Boyle after his series clinching goal in the second period. AP Photo/Kathy Willens

In Happier Times: Dominic Moore is congratulated by Brian Boyle after his series clinching goal that sent the ’13-14 Rangers to the Stanley Cup Final.
AP Photo/Kathy Willens

As I sit here and punch away on the keyboard, I can’t help but wonder how it all could’ve been different. Of course, I’m thinking back to the 2014 Stanley Cup Final the Rangers lost to the Kings. The cruel ending from Alec Martinez is still fresh in my memory bank. My reaction was emptiness at the bar with coworkers.

That was the closest five-game series in Stanley Cup history. A bounce here or there and the Rangers win their first championship since 1994. A year that now annoys me because it’s like a dark cloud that hovers over our heads. Like most die hard and passionate Blueseaters, the bitter disappointment of Game Five hasn’t dissipated. Not to mention the awful officiating that went against them.

However, here we are two years later and so much is different. After watching this team come so close to a second consecutive trip to the Stanley Cup Finals, they lost another key piece off that ’13-14 team that had the right chemistry to win a Cup. After letting Brian Boyle and Anton Stralman move to Tampa where they teamed up with Ryan Callahan to get the better of our team in a hard fought seven-game gut wrenching Conference Final, the Rangers moved Carl Hagelin on the second day of last year’s NHL Draft to the Ducks for Emerson Etem while swapping their second and sixth round picks to move up and take Ryan Gropp.

As we learned, Etem never worked out here. Coach Alain Vigneault was unwilling to give a unproven former first round pick consistent minutes. Granted. Etem didn’t show much. So, he was moved to the Canucks for Nicklas Jensen and a 2017 third round pick. Of course, Etem scored against the Rangers in his Garden return. He fared better with Vancouver netting all seven goals in 39 games. Jensen recently pulled off a Peter Forsberg in the World Championships for Denmark. So, maybe there’s still hope.

Be that as it may, losing the speedy Hagelin, who has since reemerged with the Penguins after the Ducks traded him for David Perron and Adam Clendening, really hurt. Especially with Hagelin, who was the ultimate hero winning that thrilling Game Five to eliminate those Pens one year ago in the same round. This time, he was on the opposite side forming great chemistry with line mates Nick Bonino and Phil Kessel. Even though he didn’t score more than a goal which came in a Pens’ 6-2 laugher in the Game Five clincher, his line was a factor.

Astonishingly, it was that same line featuring Hagelin that torched the Capitals in the second round. Hagelin led all Pens in scoring with seven points (3-4-7) while Bonino and Kessel each had big series. While the star duo of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin combined for just a goal and four points, it was that cohesive Pittsburgh third unit that carried them to victory along with rookie Matt Murray in net.

With the Penguins battling those same Lightning, it’s pick your poison for Ranger fans. All things being equal, I’d rather see the Bolts prevail because they’re not a true rival. Even with them getting the better of us last year, I don’t hold any grudge. The bottom line is the organization made some questionable decisions with personnel. They could’ve chosen to re-sign Stralman, who is a true top pair skating defenseman. What’s more? Vigneault didn’t even fully utilize him right, rarely trying Stralman on the power play. As for Dan Boyle, that was Glen Sather. It didn’t quite work out.

Brian Boyle is a different story. He gave it all as a Black and Blueshirt, playing the same style former captain Callahan did. At least when they traded Callahan, it was for Martin St. Louis. Without him, there’s no Stanley Cup appearance. Sure. They rallied around the proud future Hall of Famer following the tragic passing of Mom France. But his leadership can’t be overemphasized. The team twice clawed back from 3-1 second round deficits for the first time in franchise history. There definitely was a void in the locker room without the now retired St. Louis.

When Boyle left for Tampa, it was because he wanted to go play with Callahan. Ironically, here we are a year later and they’re on the same checking line going up against Crosby. Ironically, it was Boyle who turned the second round series against the Islanders around. His big hit knocked Thomas Hickey down, resulting in Boyle potting the overtime winner to win an emotional Game Three at Barclays Center. It was also his diligent work along with stud defenseman Victor Hedman that held John Tavares scoreless over the last four games. The Lightning prevailed in five games. Boyle also scored in the 4-0 Game Five clincher.

While Stralman is still trying to come back from a fractured fibula, Boyle and Callahan are front and center for the Lightning in a supporting role. Callahan continues to play the game with reckless abandon. His hit from behind on Pens’ defenseman Kris Letang resulted in a five-minute major early in Game One of the Eastern Conference Final. Callahan wasn’t ejected for the big hit due to the refs and linesmen determining that Letang wasn’t injured. He also saw Callahan coming and turned into it to draw the five-minute power play. The Pens were unable to take advantage. Letang didn’t return until later that period. Subsequently, Callahan wasn’t disciplined by the Department of Player Safety.

Despite losing starting goalie Ben Bishop to a scary leg injury where he had to be taken off on a stretcher, the Lightning were still able to take Game One 3-1. On goals from Alex Killorn, Ondrej Palat and Jonathan Drouin, they stunned the Penguins. Even though they got one back on a Patric Hornqvist power play tally with 55 seconds left in the second period, Pittsburgh was unable to beat Bolts’ backup Andrei Vasilevskiy again. The second-year netminder made 16 saves in the third to finish with 25 altogether in place of Bishop.

The Lightning are already without captain Steven Stamkos and Stralman. If Bishop is unable to return, can they still win a seven-game series against a deep Penguins roster? That remains to be seen. Originally, I took the Pens in six. One thing about these Bolts. They’re well coached by Jon Cooper, who is riding his best players. Hedman played over 27 minutes as did Letang for Pittsburgh. Tyler Johnson, Killorn, Nikita Kucherov and Palat each received over 21 minutes.

As for Boyle, he got over 18 in an expanded role that includes the occasional power play shift to use his size to screen the goalie. That’s in addition to his tight checking, key face-offs and superb penalty killing which saw him lay out and block a Malkin one-timer for one of three blocks. Not a bad night’s work from a winning player who always elevates his game in the postseason.

There was a special moment when a gritty Boyle as part of a good fourth line, set up Dominic Moore for the series clincher late in the second period against the Canadiens. On the back of Henrik Lundqvist, who made a remarkable save to preserve the 1-0 Game Six win in the 2014 Eastern Conference Final, those Blueshirts advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals. I’ll never forget how loud MSG was. It was also Boyle from Moore scoring a huge first goal in a 2-1 Game Seven win over the Pens in the previous round. A game won by Brad Richards with a power play goal in the second from St. Louis.

To win the Cup, it’s not just the stars who must step up. But also the role players who can be the difference between winning and losing. Hagelin was one of those guys. His game-breaking speed could lead to a rush in transition that quickly. A two-way forward who doesn’t take a shift off, the affable Swede was a perfect fit under Vigneault scoring 17 goals in each of his two seasons.

It was two years ago that Hags had seven goals and five helpers during that long postseason into June. He played mostly with Richards and St. Louis. When they fell short a year ago, he wound up with two goals and three assists. But his role was different. He played on the third line with rookie Kevin Hayes. The third line struggled against Tampa. Hayes had a tough time. It happens. He also was ineffective in three games against Pittsburgh before Vigneault decided to sit him for Oscar Lindberg. Much more will be expected from Hayes when he enters his third season.

The thing that gets lost is how valuable Hagelin was. His blinding speed made him dangerous. Just ask the Kings if they weren’t holding their breath when he had a shorthanded breakaway before the end of regulation in Game Five. Sad as it was to see him go, the Rangers deemed him expendable due to the salary cap. They couldn’t pay him the four million he now gets from the Penguins. Odd how things work out. I’m still a big Hagelin fan. But seeing him in that ugly black and gold jersey is just wrong.

At least the Lightning don’t play in the division. I just wish they still represented the more familiar and lovable red, white and blue. Since those guys left, the Rangers haven’t been the same. The addition of Tanner Glass, who gives an honest effort, didn’t help the fourth line. I don’t need to cite any annoying Corsi or chart to make my point. I respect Glass too much for that. Ditto Jesper Fast, who should be on the fourth line but instead is overused by Vigneault.

Maybe one day soon, the Rangers will solve their fourth line problem. When that day comes, maybe I won’t miss blood and guts players like Boyle as much as I do. Hagelin too because the penalty kill became worse than the power play. Hard facts that can’t be ignored. When you subtract key pieces, it can come back to bite you.

For those True Blue fans like myself, we are suffering at this moment. No deep playoff run. Instead, we get to watch former Black and Blueshirts battle for a chance at Lord Stanley. Oh joy.

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Buchnevich signs entry level contract with Rangers

Posted on May 14, 2016 by Derek
Pavel Buchnevich is one of four remaining prospects from a strong 2013 Rangers Draft. Getty Images

Pavel Buchnevich is finally signed and will play for the Rangers starting next season.
Getty Images

After much speculation, the Rangers finally signed Pavel Buchnevich to an entry level contract. The 21-year old Russian prospect agreed to a three-year deal worth $925,000 per season.

Originally selected 75th overall in the third round of the 2013 NHL Draft five picks ahead of ex-Ranger Anthony Duclair, Buchnevich has played in the Kontinental Hockey League the past four seasons. Playing mostly with the hometown Severstal Cherepovets, the forward developed into a good scorer in the KHL while playing against professionals.

After putting up 13 goals and 17 assists totaling 30 points in 48 games for Severstal Cherepovets in ’14-15, Buchnevich tallied 12 goals and 17 assists in 40 contests this past season before he was traded to St. Petersburg SKA. Playing on the same team as former NHL star Ilya Kovalchuk, he totaled four goals and four helpers in 18 games. During his first KHL playoffs, he scored one goal with two assists and had 29 penalty minutes in 14 games.

A offensively gifted player with good skating and play making skills, Buchnevich is expected to slot into the Rangers’ top nine in ’16-17. Ever since he was drafted, the Russian from Cherepovets, Russia has wanted to become the first player to make the NHL from his hometown. He’ll get that chance this Fall.

Part of the blockbuster trade with the Blue Jackets that sent Rick Nash to the Rangers in exchange for Artem Anisimov (Brandon Saad), Brandon Dubinsky, Tim Erixon and a 2013 first round pick (Kerby Rychel), Buchnevich is the other part of the deal the Rangers have been waiting on. Now, they’ll finally have the chance to see what the talented 21-year old can do.

Buchnevich represented Russia at two Under-20 World Junior Championships registering three goals and 10 assists for 13 points in 14 games. Having seen him in that tournament, the talent is there. He is a shifty skater with good speed and skill that should suit him well in the Rangers’ system.

It all depends on how quick a transition it’ll be for a player who doesn’t speak any English. The Rangers will have Buchnevich spend most of the summer in New York to help him get accustomed to life in the Big Apple. He’ll have a tutor.

There has also been talk of the Rangers possibly bringing in another Russian to help him. The question is do they really want to explore a Alex Radulov, who despite bundles of talent lasted nine games and eight more in the 2012 NHL Playoffs with the Predators before returning to the KHL.

Given their cap situation, that won’t be the focus this summer. Keith Yandle is the top priority. If it’s true his family loves the city, he might take a home discount to stay. Imagine a player passing up more money on the open market to help the Rangers because he loves it here. Hopefully, it proves true.

General Manager Jeff Gorton also must re-sign Group II free agents Kevin Hayes, Chris Kreider, Dylan McIlrath and J.T. Miller. The three forwards will be more expensive than McIlrath, who better have a top six spot on next year’s roster.

Meanwhile, it looks like Dominic Moore won’t be back. No surprise here. In his second stint with the team that drafted him out of Harvard in the third round in 2000, he was a solid fourth line pivot who was one of the team’s top penalty killers and face-off men. If he winds up elsewhere, best wishes to him.

Viktor Stalberg would like to return. He certainly had a solid first campaign on Broadway playing third and fourth line while playing penalty kill. It all depends on what happens with everything else.

It remains to be seen if the Rangers will explore either a trade or buyout with Dan Girardi. If Yandle re-upped, wouldn’t it make sense to see if they can move Marc Staal? Brady Skjei will be part of the solution on the back end. You never know what the organization is thinking.

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