Game 5 update; Reitz to be dusted off
Posted on April 17th, 2008 – 9:04 AMBy Michael Russo
Oh, forgot a very minor thing about this morning. Peter Forsberg didn’t skate and Denver Post writer Adrian Dater has a suspicion he may not be playing tonight. We will see.
Minor thing forgotten there.
Erik Reitz, 25, will make his playoff debut tonight, Lemaire said for Petteri Nummelin. But he didn’t say Nummelin wouldn’t play for sure.
Could Nummelin be moved to wing for one of the tough guys and Sean Hill be scratched?
Don’t know. Lemaire indicated that there may be forward changes, so maybe its Benoit Pouliot.
Regardless, Reitz, who hasn’t played in the NHL this year, will play his first game since March 9. Just ran into him at lunch, and he’s busy texting everybody he knows.
Apparently Russoville residents have a pregame meal tonight at Tom Reid’s at 4:30.
Game 6 is 9 pm again, so get your game story online.
How about this? It escaped my mind that I was even going back to Denver tomorrow until I got the email from the airline to check in.
But don’t worry, without that email, it probably would have dawned on me by tomorrow morning. Hopefully.
I’ve gotten some emails from here and Denver wondering if Stephane Veilleux would be suspended for his hit from behind on Paul Stastny.
He won’t be, and Veilleux said this morning he regrets that hit and that that’s not him. And its not. He usually plays the game with respect.
Quite frankly, if Veilleux should be suspended, so should Tyler Arnason. His elbow on Keith Carney was the most vicious elbow I’ve seen at one of the games I’ve covered this year. Way more vicious than Ed Jovanovski’s on Marian Gaborik this season, and Jovo Cop got a game.
Regardless, like I said yesterday, Veilleux needed to be unplugged or something Tuesday night.
What else? What else?
Gaborik looked to be squeezing his stick into sawdust (if sticks were still wooden that would apply) at yesterday’s practice. Think he’s starting to feel the pressure?
291 Responses to "Game 5 update; Reitz to be dusted off"
Tonight’s key - get lots of pucks on net in the first period. A lucky bounce or deflection that finds the back of the net may open the floodgates.
Agreed target. I can’t remember which team it was late in the season, but Lemaire implored his players to go out and shoot, shoot, shoot. I think another order along those lines is necessary tonight. Just throw it at JT and see what sticks (or slips through, as the case may be).
Shooting is good, but we need to see some driving to the net and some traffic in front in periods 1 and 2.
VoR,
Agreed. Anyone who’s watched this entire series knows that when the Wild crank it up, throw pucks at the net and crash for rebounds/deflections, they have dominated.
Here is the irony: Gabby is the fastest skater in the league, with one of the most ridiculously quick releases in the game. Problem is, he has yet to prove that he can produce “playoff type” goals, and as a result, his confidence may be flagging (see Russos earlier update.)
I abosolutely believe that he is going to bust out, but barring an AvHole mistake, he’s not going to get the opportunity for the picture-perfect top-shelf writster from the dot that he’s mastered. Our fate depends on that adjustment.
Astutely put about the Gabby thing, bfw.
Secrecy can be important in this business, and there were plenty of rumors out there that week that the Wild were going to select goaltender Dan Blackburn with their pick. Risebrough was happy with that. He didn’t want anyone making a trade to move in front of Minnesota.
Risebrough continued, “Just before the draft, (Montreal Canadiens owner) George Gillett came over to our table and asked Bob who we were going to take, and I just smiled when Bob said, ‘I don’t know, George.’ Montreal had the pick right behind us and I was worried they might be able to make a deal with someone in front of us and we’d lose Mikko.”
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?articleid=360523&page=NewsPage&service=page
This put me in a good mood - Blackburn went 20-32-11 for NYR and a shoulder injury forced him into retirement in 2005.
Score a first period goal. Anyone from the Wild.
If Pouliot plays, it would be for Voros. If that happens, look for more ice time for Sheppard and more time for Demitra on the wing with Gaborik.
I’d keep Voros in though.
Unless JL has lost Faith in Hill, Reitz stays on the popcorn. Would l-o-v-e to see Schultz back in for Saturday’s game. Would his 7-10 minutes be better than 7-10 from Hill?
More popcorn for Foy.
This series is proving out what I posted back in Feb. about the ineffectiveness of the enforcer in today’s game. Until the NHL removes that instigator penalty, the agitator/pest/turtle will continue to dominate the face of the game. Crap like Ladouchebag, McClown, etc will keep making a mockery of ‘the code’.
I’d keep Voros in too. Even though he gets a little crazy, they need his energy. And I think Schultz’s 7-10 minutes would be far better than Hill’s.
They just need to watch out for the dumb cross-ice pass in our own zone. Those are what kill us regularly. I don’t know how many times this season I’ve seen those and you can see the pickoff coming, followed by the easy 1 on none chance for the opposing team. Send it up the boards instead of across the ice.
Hey Rus, what’s the estimated timetable on a possible Nick Schultz return?
agree re: instigator.
I thought we were getting to a point where we figured out it was ok to take a few instigators to teach lessons. i cite the vancouver game for example.
game 4 provided a great opportunity to do that again and not put the team in a precarious position since belangering them was out of the question. the boys didn’t take advantage.
it was subtle but i think the jovo cop reference was an attempt by the Don to get a florida reference past us.
If they are talking about SRV being suspended, shouldn’t they also be talking about Guite? He did to the same exact thing that SRV did in the 2nd period to Sheppard. Man I think its been like a month since I’ve posted. I got the crap a few weeks ago and missed a week of work. Then the wild went on the winning streak and I didn’t want to jinx by posting, but it seems pretty safe now.
It will be nice to have an early 8 pm start tonite. I hope they come out flying.
I thought we were getting to a point where we figured out it was ok to take a few instigators to teach lessons.
I mean — C’mon, was there ever a BETTER opportunity than that gm #4 debacle to settle things up? Couldn’t agree more, was rootin’ for it after the 1st intermission, down 3-donut.
Green*…I agree. It was a veiled attempt to reference the Sunshine State.
Did I tell anyone that I will miss most of Game 6? Yeah, we have a gig at Mainstreet in Hopkins.
there are 3 games scheduled for saturday
ovie is already playing on NBC at noon central
habs are in boston, TBA, carried by CBC
wild are in denver, TBA, carried by CBC and VS.
my guess is we roll at 3pm central with habs on at 6pm central for the CBC double header. maybe start us at 2 central which will overlap with ovie but no one here or in canada cares.
worst case is they roll habs at 6pm and wild at 9pm. booo.
Nick’s 7 minutes is like manna from heaven. Give me that any day over Hill’s.
Gabby has not proven himself this playoff season but he has proven himself in the past. However, we need him badly. The team knows it, the fans know it, and the Avs know it. Look for them to step it up against Gabby even more.
I agree with everyone (and Glen Sonmor) on the instigator thing. We should have busted some heads on Tuesday. See my debate with VoR yesterday. He’s awfully quiet this morning.
You know, will all the attention on stopping Gabbro, that Koivu guy is doing pretty well. Just a thought.
I think someone said this the other day, but Russo should sit with Gabby and show him the video of his big night against the NYR again.
If Gabby finally breaks through tonight, look out. I could be wrong but I feel if and when he notches that first one the floodgates will open for him. go Wild!
I’m still a little confused about th Gabby questions. Do the Wild have to forfiet either games 2 or 3 because Gabby did not get a point? Or, do they have to forfiet either games 2 or 3 because they didn’t score in the first two periods? I didn’t think so. Sure it would be nice to see Gabby score 14 goals in the first period tonight as the Wild roll to a 37-0 lead after two periods, but as long as the Wild win the game, does it really matter to anyone here if we get three unassisteed goals from Boogaard, Simon and Voros in the 3rd period and an OT winner from Hill? I keep reading and hearing about how the Wild can’t win if Gabby doesn’t score and they can’t win if they don’t score in the first two periods. They’ve done that twice already. Twice more and I don’t think Wild fans would be crying baby shoes about it.
Is the penalty for instigating just the extra minor? For some reason I thought there was some possibility of suspension. Maybe that’s just if it’s in the last 5 mins?
I’m guessing but if the Habs win tonight that series is over. Wouldn’t this be why they are waiting to give game time for the Wild game?
DB - agreed. I would be completely happy with a 1-0 Wild win on a goal deflected by Boogard that hits the pipe and is subsequently knocked in by Jose.
good point bill
no habs then the wild should start at 7pm central
I belive the instigator only results in a suspension in the last 5 minutes, Hoockeydad. You get an extra minor and a misconduct, I think.
Wow. SPELLING, Dave!
He’s awfully quiet this morning.
Because I know I’m right 
Actually, I’m looking for daycare for my little guy today, so I’m preoccupied.
Go Habs! kj, I may have to sneak over for 1 or 2 before going home, save me half a chair. Dave, sorry to hear about your dog.
Oh and I’ll be wearing my black suede Wild jacket, black pants and tan shirt. I’ll even buy a drink for Mike if he can make it.
Kiszla is at it again http://www.denverpost.com/kiszla
Section 5, Rule 32.9
“The Referee shall report to the Commissioner promptly and in detail the circumstances surrounding the following:
…
(iv) The assessment of an instigator penalty.
Kiszla is at it again
We know. Ignore him.
Actually, I’m looking for daycare for my little guy today, so I’m preoccupied
I watched Nanny Diaries last night. Don’t think I want to go into nannying otherwise i’d volunteer. But i’ll take to nannying Parrish’s little one. 
Wonder if he’s knawing on his pacifier already with eyes wide open.
Hockeydad - Here is the instigator rule straight from NHL.com:
47.11Instigator - An instigator of an altercation shall be a player or
goalkeeper who by his actions or demeanor demonstrates any/some
of the following criteria: distance traveled; gloves off first; first punch
thrown; menacing attitude or posture; verbal instigation or threats;
conduct in retaliation to a prior game (or season) incident; obvious
retribution for a previous incident in the game or season
A player or goalkeeper who is deemed to be the instigator of an
altercation shall be assessed an instigating minor penalty, a major
penalty for fighting and a ten-minute misconduct.
If the same player or goalkeeper is deemed to be the instigator of
a second altercation in the same game, he shall be assessed an
instigating minor penalty, a major penalty for fighting and a game
misconduct.
When a player or goalkeeper receives his third instigator penalty in
one Regular season, he is automatically given a game misconduct
following that third violation.
A player or goalkeeper who is deemed to be both the instigator
and aggressor of an altercation shall be assessed an instigating minor
penalty, a major penalty for fighting, a ten-minute misconduct
(instigator) and a game misconduct penalty (aggressor).
47.12 Instigator in Final Five Minutes of Regulation Time (or Anytime in
Overtime) - A player or goalkeeper who is deemed to be the instigator
of an altercation in the final five (5) minutes of regulation time or at
anytime in overtime shall be assessed an instigator minor penalty, a
major penalty for fighting, and a game misconduct penalty.
Burns got an instigator penalty during the Bouchard-Burrows scrum and no suspension.
I agree with Glen Sonmor too. Boogaard should have taken the instigator and get kicked out of the game if he would have knocked Lappy or McLeod out.
home “white” for me, tan business casual pants, reboks. no foppa shoes. they are worthless anyway, company lost half it’s value 2 days ago.
Deep…The lack of consistent scoring has hurt the Wild’s chances to dominate the series.
Game 1 - totally dominate period one, come up empty, lose in OT.
Game 2 - not as dominant, win in OT.
Game 3 - totally dominant in the game, yet HAS to go to OT. Win.
Game 4 - never in it.
I’m saying if the Wild score in the 1st period of Game 1, this could be a completely different series. Gaborik has been a huge offensive contributor to this team and their success when he is on the scoreboard is well known.
Obviously what I am saying is woulda, coulda, shoulda. BUT, getting more scoring (i.e. Gaborik) will HELP the Wild win the series. So will giving up less goals, but our D has been overworked. You cannot say that about our scorers.
An instigator of an altercation shall be a player or
goalkeeper who by his actions…
Last I checked, a goalkeeper is a hockey player. Semantics, I know, but still…
WL: SHE may be chewing on her passy but it’s most likely more drool and gumming than actual chewing.
Kind of agree about my Boogie taking the instigator but at the same time I think JL has such a short leash on the boys none of them felt they could.
Wonder if he’s knawing on his pacifier already with eyes wide open.
LMAO
47.11Instigator - An instigator of an altercation shall be a player or
goalkeeper who by his actions or demeanor demonstrates any/some
of the following criteria: distance traveled; gloves off first; first punch
thrown; menacing attitude or posture; verbal instigation or threats;
conduct in retaliation to a prior game (or season) incident; obvious
retribution for a previous incident in the game or season…
That one pretty much leaves the Ref to decide at will to award and instigator penalty.
The tone against the turtles/pests like LaMeow and McGap needs to be set in the first 20 games of the regular season. If the enforcers say “enough is enough” and simply punish them thoroughly, there might be less of the “cheap shot - hide behind the ref” routine.
Let’s start with a first period goal and work from there. I agree with Russo about Boogard/Simon being ineffective in this series. We need people in front of the net who score. I’m going to try to get to Tom Reid’s tonight. Hope to see you folks. Go Wild!
no foppa shoes. they are worthless anyway, company lost half it’s value 2 days ago.
Might also explain why I picked up a pair of croc flip-flops over the weekend for $15 (half of the price I was going to pay in Maui in Feb). Sure are comfy though.
SHE may be chewing on her passy
glad i read that slow
kj: Obviously if the Wild scores goals in the first and/or second period it makes life easier in the land of Russoville. But frankly, I don’t care who scores for the Wild or when they score as long as the Wild has more goals than the Avs when the clock expires. Don’t care if the Wild doesn’t get another goal in the first two periods for the next three games and Gabby is pointless and a minus-5, as long as Wild wins game 7 Monday night.
Might also explain why I picked up a pair of croc flip-flops over the weekend for $15
where was this and are they real crocs?
Sure are comfy though.
got that right
Tom Reids -
I got a call from WRT…he and the missus are in too.
BDS
Green* + 1
kj + 1
bfw?
WRT + 1
Dickie?
El Gato?
Anyone else…let me know…I am making the reservation at 11 AM.
Did you know, Benoit Pouliot has 2g and 1a for 3 pts in 8gms since he was called up and that is limited ice time.
SHE may be chewing on her passy
glad i read that slow
lol. i didn’t. fortunately, i read it twice. lol
Sorry G* did I throw you off by using the word my nephew used for pacifier?
I should go to work but because of the meeting tonight I was going to wait, and I really don’t want to be there, I want to go to Reids and then watch the game. Stupid meeting.
$15! I would have thought $15 would buy 3 pair.
OOPS, my mistake sorry 
There goes my nanny application, eh? That stinks!
Would have been a big surprise for you the first time you changed a diaper at the very least WL.
kj,
I’m a game-time decision.
Daddy Daycare Duty + school nite =
If not, I’ll be there in spirit.
kj, see my 10:04 message. I should be there.
Don’t forget me, kj. I’ll try to be there for a bit, but I’m a game-time decision, too (good one, bfw!).
WildLover-very possibly and don’t forget the she probably is spitting a lot already too
Bandgeek (this is from Tuesday’s night’s game thread)-tell your friend H that I am in full agreement with Rolston on shirt off, it is kinda yucky, too hairy and he always looks a little chunky (which he shouldn’t since he is a pro hockey player).
Don’t forget the 10,000 dollar coaches fine on the instigator in the last 5 min of the game.
Funny how Mr. Pissla doesn’t mention a very similar boarding of Shep by Foote that occurred in the SAME game in the 2nd period…….
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves on Schultz. Don’t count on him being a knight in shining armor for games 6 or 7. The guy NEEDS to get healthy and I sure hope DR and JL have the long term in mind for him. Please don’t put him out there, even for 6-7 minutes, if he’s not 100%.
Win this series, get a little rest, then bring him in if he’s ready.
Okie dokie.
One thing I don’t wanna do (considering how BUSY Reid’s is) is reserve a bunch of spots and then have empty chairs with waitresses givin me the evil eye.
I’m gonna make the reservation for the people that said they will be there - so far 7 and I’ll add 3 extra spots. I am going to try to get a table by the glass so if we get more than that, there will be a place to stand and commiserate!!!
I’ll post the count at 11 am, just before I call.
I’m not even reading that pusbag’s column, Goofy. I don’t want to waste even the two minutes it would take. I’m disappointed in myself that I even wasted thirty seconds typing this post to say that I wasn’t going to waste any time on that POS.
Thx, kj. Should be a blast!
Btw, what’s the verdict? Can you work that request into your set?
If I’m there, kj, I’ll be there early like I was at McGovern’s. So, you won’t need to worry about saving a seat for me.
I know, but it’s like someone said before. Wanting to look away from the train wreck, but can’t. lol
Didn’t read all the comments so if this has been mentioned, sorry…If Veilleux gets one, the dude who did it to Shep gets the same..
I want the series to go in this budding mathematical pattern, they won 1, we won 2, they won 1, we (will)win 2 and take the series….the symmetry is too beautiful to be ignored!
Laperriere said “When there are cheap shots, or dirty hits like that (Veilleux behind Stasny) happen, guys are men enough to take care of it themselves.”
Take your own advice, wuss.
phil, even if we can go with this pattern it should be ok:
They won one, we one two, they won one, we won one, they won one, and we won one
bfw…Thin Lizzy?
Entirely possible. I will run it past the New Song Committee…
Excellent Dave…we’ll be there at about 4:30.
Me either. The more we talk about it, I feel the more it brings attention to the Refs. I think some of their calls could be traced to that article. It was in the back of their minds.
I don’t understand why the Pio put a Denver article on the front of their online edition about SRV receiving a suspension for his hit on Stasny.
SRV should be on his best behavior. The Refs will be looking at him.
I meant to say that the Denver article calling for a suspension on SRV.
Russo, that blog sucked. You knew that and, more importantly, we dont care. You’ve earned yourself plenty of leaway with us, I think. You’re a great reporter for this team.
Day game Saturday!? I hope so…
For you hockey nuts on here: are there any good hockey bars (filled with actual fans that watch the game) within reasonable distance of the U? Hopefully not too on the pricey end, but I’d be willing to pay an extra few bucks for a good crowd.
where was this and are they real crocs?
Real McCoy - got them at Sports Authority.
Have fun down at Reid’s Russoville. I wish I could join you.
Phil: Have you checked out the new Satch yet?
I think it’s beyond important to score first tonight. I’m sure the boys have put the last game behind them but it could be really deflating to come out playing really well and still give up the first one.
FIGHT TO THE END!!
Deep, man you’re right about the wins, but it’s also right that you can get 21 by hitting on 20…but it’s not advised. Scoring and/or creating scoring chances MUST pick up by our #1 skill guy, the others are picking up the slack, but how long is that going to last?…and if we survive Colorado, it’s only gonna get tougher, teams will keep targeting gabby, knowing he shuts down thus INCREASING, not guaranteeing, their chance of success..luck runs out, skill doesn’t.
Kirk, I haven’t found it released yet, where’d you get it?
Oh and the Avs are going “Down. Down, Down”!
Phil: Have you checked out the new Satch yet?
New Satch! Awesome, thx for the heads up!
kgoph, I like it, but it’s not as symmetric! 
I would rather have 7pm game Saturday so I can watch (oh well, that is what DVR is for). We are going to be in the cities during the day for an Art/Jewelery show to look into the type of wedding band the other half wants. But if it a day game I guess will will just watch it when we get home on the DVR. Either way I will get to see it at some point. Gotta love starting late sometimes with DVR because then you don’t have to watch the commericial or The Faceoff Segment when they do it on FSN.
Phil: I would hardly consider getting goals from Koivu, Rolston, PMB and Demo luck. Wild has proven it doesn’t need Gabby to win in this series. Twice more and the team moves on. Three goals from Boogie on penalty shots; the final one in OT, is luck. Having your top-end players score while the main goal scorer is struggling to find the back of the net is not luck; it is scoring depth.
Not it isn’t phil but it still gets the desired outcome. I like your way much better.
NHL.com has the Saturday game at 10:00 pm est.
Russoville reservation for 10 at 4:30 (Tom Reids).
kgopher…next Saturday (4/26) the band is at Salida Depot in Becker…closer to your home…
I’ll have to watch this Saturday while I am playing…
Hopefully that 9 pm (cst) time for Saturday is correct. The boy has a Meltdown Tournament game at 7:30 so will have ample time to get home and view the Wild and listen to 3+ hours of exsquisite banter from D&D.
Phil: I bought it on iTunes. Release date was 04/01/08. I’ll buy the CD also at some point to go with the rest of my Joe collection. I’m sure you could pick it up at Best Buy, Ckt City etc.
The Avs will have a let down tonight. They will appear to be skating through “Raspberry Jam”. They’re playoff dreams will go “Up In Flames”. We will keep our cool despite Lappy, McLeod, Guite et al acting like “Psycho Monkey”’s. Tonight we will celebrate a Wild victory dancing the “Banano Mango”
OK buddy’s. WildLover’s back!!!
I was on the phone bitching and complaining about my cell phone service so..
Back the the Little Ms. Parrish. Just to let you know, I have four younger brothers so i know alllll about diaper duty, spitting and all that stuff. How old do you think I am? Oh, and I’ve been babysitting the neighbors kid since she was born. She’s 1 year and 3 months now.
For all AVS fans out there, I hope you all get Glass Seating so you can watch and see (up close and personal ) your team get their butts kicked today.
Russoville reservation for 10 at 4:30 (Tom Reids).
Hope you all have a great time. Wish I could go. Make sure we know who you are when they show you on TV.
Deep, you won’t make it Deep in the playoffs like that..GWG’s -Carney’s goal was unusual and PMB got his on a weird bounce and lazy play, those things are “luck” and will run out, especially if you have to rely on them. But you of course are free to believe what you want as am I.
Kirk, BB isn’t releasing it for a little bit yet, I’ll check other sources, thanks for the heads up. Kirk, “I Believe” we’re heading for “One Big Rush” for tonight!
[…] out before I break out into uncontrollable laughter. But, I’m going to try. Today, Mike Russo found a way to top the absurdity of his punching bag comment. Russo was explaining that it didn’t sound like […]
Once again, can a great Internet mind explain the post above?
Phil: 94 percent of the time a GWG in OT is a fluky goal; not many 3-way tic-tac-toe passing plays end an OT. Sakic’s was a redirect off Skoula’s leg. Doesn’t matter whom scores as long as the Wild has more scores at the end of the game than the Avs. Who knows, Wild may get a goal from Nummi at the forward position tonight and Reitz may kick one in. Doesn’t matter whom is scoring them.
Strib IT guy or some IT guy said that someone is linking this blog and that is why it appears as a post.
Sorry if this has been posted already… Game 6 is Saturday at 9 PM CT. Phil/Wash at 1 PM, Mtl/Bos would be at 12 PM.
Food. REITZ IN TONIGHT.
The writer for In The Cheap Seats was insinuating that Russo was reaching for an incident that would compare to Veilleux’s hit on Stastny in terms of negligence.
Man, all these Avs fans were so nice when I was in Denver for the last game of the season…my how the playoffs change things.
I think Nummy is better than Hill. I hope he plays the wing for Simon and Pouliot in for Voros.
I don’t want Nummy to be scratched.
- sunshine - thanks.
- Carpe diem Mr. Reitz!
Fair enough Deep, I’d rather see Gabby earn his check instead of being a “regular” player out there, then we wouldn’t need fluky goals as much.
Maybe Reitz will be the 2nd coming of Floppy, minus the diving and punkness! Koolaid is good MMM.
“The writer for In The Cheap Seats was insinuating that Russo was reaching for an incident that would compare to Veilleux’s hit on Stastny in terms of negligence.
Man, all these Avs fans were so nice when I was in Denver for the last game of the season…my how the playoffs change things.”
you don’t think that’s a reach, Dan?
Phil: I would hardly suggest that Gabby has been a regular player. I believe a quick check of the stats will reveal that he leads all the NHL in shots during these playoffs. He has been flying; just not cashing in on his chances.
Tounge in cheek, by the way, about Gabby leading in shots.
So, the cheap seats dude thinks that a ‘vicious elbow’ should be ignored simply because it was retaliatory? Hmmm, Simon’s chop to Holweg last year was retaliatory should it be overlooked?
What about Bertuzzi’s hit on Moore? It was in retaliation should it be overlooked by the league?
No, the cheap seats dude doesn’t think it was a vicious elbow to begin with. The fact that Carney’s elbow is being ignored is only of secondary interest.
Classic Avs fan drivel. I suppose it was Kris Draper’s fault his jaw was broken?
That’s one reason I don’t care anymore for the Avs, Wild fans at least can see the faults in their own team and are honest about what happens.
Well as everyone knows Good old Wally predicted Reitz to be in the line up. But Good old Wally said that Numilien would be in as well. I dont think that Simon is neccessary for this game unless JL thinks he is important to have on the bench for leadership, so let Numilien play forward to back up Reitz in case he implodes
Wally I agree, you are brilliant to say the least. I would swear you know JL ?
kj, all I have to do is convince the other half to drive out there. I tried really hard last time and he just didn’t want to drive that far.
http://www.twincities.com/wild/ci_8952260?nclick_check=1
the PP says tonight game was sloppy. who knew they had a crystal ball and why didn’t they give us the final score?
You know Beav/GOW, this board will get really cluttered if everyone does what you do.
I think Beaver and GoW should attend the pregamer at Reids to finally put an end to the rumor that they are one in the same!
$5.00
Cheap Seats = Leperriere
Any takers?
Note: I am refusing to look at his blog, so i am probably 100% wrong. Monetary value is in “theoretical dollars” since this is the internet
Thanks Beav ! Now if I was only appreciated as home as much as you appreciate my hockey wisdom, I would have it made.
I dont know JL Beav but as a past coach I would have a huge concern dressing Boogy, the refs may not let him play his game, just like last year in the playoffs. As a coach that last game would have spooked me from playing him Beaver
“Classic Avs fan drivel. I suppose it was Kris Draper’s fault his jaw was broken?
That’s one reason I don’t care anymore for the Avs, Wild fans at least can see the faults in their own team and are honest about what happens.”
if Tyler Arnason EVER hits anyone hard enough to break his jaw, I’ll be the first one in line to criticize. Don’t hold your breath, though.
We fixed the title GreenStar.
You know guys, I have never met Beaver, but I would like to, he seems like a nice guy. I think you guys are jealous that he values my opinion so much.
In my whole life nobody has ever told me I was a split personality, so its not me ! I think my wife would know if I had a disease
I don’t think we should paint all Avs fans with the same brush, VoR. I hate when they do that to me on the Avs boards, so I think we should show Draft Dodger some respect. He/she seems level-headed enough.
Just sayin’.
And AvsFan seemed pretty decent. AOW was not.
i thought beaver was a chick
Gow, look in the mirror, you’ll see beaver HEY-OH! thank you thank you very much..but seriously
We fixed the title GreenStar.
G*, I didn’t know you had THAT much pull. First you get them to fix erroneous information and then you get them to post on the rival paper’s blog. The next thing you know, you’ll put your Foppa sandals away and the company’s value will plummet…
Nice Beaver!
Thanks I just had it stuffed.
(Man, that never gets old…)
Dave, normally I agree, and I’m respectful 99% of the time, as long as the visitor is being respectful. Maybe I read his first post wrong, but it didn’t seem to me like he came here for discourse, but to rile us up.
BNAG, I agree, great line from one funny movie!
wait, wait a minte, maybe G* and “pioneer press” are pulling a GoW/beaver thing on us!!
Its been awhile since I’ve posted, and I know we’re supposed to ignore this “journalist”. but I thought I should respond to him today only because of his bringing Steve Moore into his article…..Below is my email to him today.
As a wild fan, what i love about your aricle is this. You suggest to “lock Veilleux in a dark room for a night, and let him watch an endless loop of a videotape showing Avs player Steve Moore crumpled on the ice with three fractured vertebrae in his neck, after being smacked with a we’re-not-going-to-take-it message from some hockey tough guy.”
Interseting you bring up Steve Moore, what did the Av’s provide Moore after this incident. Nothing. Gone. No new contract. You “in Colorado” no nothing of how to treat hockey players. here in Minnesota, we tell a player who’s been injured, that he need not worry…
http://www.startribune.com/sports/wild/17116061.html
…and will be tendered a contract so he can focus on hockey. Clolorado = Class? Hmm. Nope. Colorado = Forgetful. Yes.
Anyhoo. Going tonight, I hope its crazier in the X tonight as it was Friday!
Nice pull, BNAG. Priscilla Presley sure was hot in that movie. Seen her lately? Yeesh!
Dave, Anna Nicole looked pretty good too, but I think Prscilla is looking a little bette than her these days. 
I am going tonight w/ wifey so I am jacked for this game. I don’t have time to read all the blogs and I am sure this was already mentioned..but.. I think it is IMPERATIVE we score first tonight and set the tone, send a message, get the crowd into it, any other little saying you want to add to it. I hope Hill sits and it looks like it is setting up that way. He can’t be any worse than Hill has been, and his legs are 13 years younger. We don’t have any other options at this point. I am thinking this is going to be another 2-1 or 3-2 game, but I am thinking we win in regulation tonight. Pass the Kool-Aid! Oh,and Gabby is going to light the lamp tonight.
Drebin: Nice beaver!
Jane: Thanks, I just had it stuffed.
Reitz in. Interesting…
He above I am of course referring to Reitz..
NHL.com is showing Saturday’s game as a 9pm ct start.
Someone needs to sit down with Gabby and watch the 5 goal game again to really fire him up.
I’m in tonight, kj. I’ll probably be there a little before you.
Dave…if you are…the reservation is under my name (easy to find it on the band website).
I know it, kj. See ya there…..
If anyone else wants to drop by, I’ll have a small Russoville sign on the table. Say hiya. Yeah, even you Multiple Mike…
Remember what Good Old Wally said. If the Wild lose tonight, I think they win the series. If they win tonight I dont, know what happens. KJ what do you think about that ??
KJ what do you think about that ??
Who cares what kj thinks, I want Beaver’s take!
GoW ask the Beav, beav is highly intelligent and may even know more than Good Old Wally!
KJ, are you honored GoW has singled you out?! Also, how long will you stay (at reid’s right?) before headin’ over to the game?
Your know this stat of leading for only 5 Minutes. What is that actual stat of how many minutes the game has been tied? Or how many minutes has Colorado lead? Just makes for a sensational stat I guess!
I’m busy today, so this will be my only weigh-in before the game.
That’d be nice, eh?
Russo, I didn’t know you were Canadian!
The Wild toughness factor is a double-edged sword. Boogaard, Simon, Fedoruk and Voros are effective during the regular season, but not so much in the playoffs because if someone does not want to fight them, there’s really nothing they can do other than go out and hit people. While hitting them helps, it isn’t going to be a cure-all deterrent for other stuff. Look at the Ducks/Wild series last year - it wasn’t so much the Wild got “out-enforcered”, but just beat up by a bigger team that hit everyone and everything. If the Wild cannot play in that respect against the Avs, then the “enforcers” aren’t going to make much of a difference.
Fedoruk and Voros can score, and play hard down low. But Boogaard and Simon aren’t that great with the puck, and not that fast either. Is it worth it to play them for 5 mins a game, and have them get 3 hits apiece, and not generate any offense or slow down the Avs? I’d rather see Pouliot and Foy, myself.
severe hindsight: wondering a bit where the timeout call was after maybe the 2nd or 3rd goal the other evening? or perhaps when boogey lost his mind and shot the puck then took the sharp elbow for a walk on that guy’s head?
lemaire’s a damn genius sure, but infallible? coulda been the difference.
Unlike GoW, kj doesn’t refer to kj in the 3rd person. Unless kj is replying to GoW or the Beav…
I think the Wild must and will win tonight.
I am also wondering what the Beav thinks.
I’ll be at Tom Reid’s until 7:15-7:30 ish.
I think the Wild have to pound the Avs to death tonight; legallly, cleanly, unmercifully. Every guy on that team needs to feel pain by the end of the night, intense, long-lasting pain. If we do that for 3 games, we will have a great shot at winning 2.
We gotta want it more.
MupN- The difference in the Ducks game from last year is that they took several 2nd man in penalties, and did not seem to care. It’s MN Nice I guess! Game 4 was a chance to show real authority for McClown et al to have them shut the f’up. So Boogy gets a suspension, big deal! Voros jumps in and takes on LaDouche for a dance partner instead of SRV. Big Deal! He got a penalty for misconduct by showing that intent anyhow. Which was a joke. The Enforcer plays a bigger role in the playoff, we just are not using them properly. If the smaller finesse of AV is not intimidated yet they have done their job. We changed the size of our squad this year because of 5 games from last years post season. Game 5 Boogy grab McClown and goes Brad May on his face. Boogy dont feel bad about the unspoken ‘code’, he shown no respect for it. And as your sitting in the locker room look up and watch the screen when Simon skates by the AV bench and says to LaDouche your next! That my friend will be priceless. I would pay for a limited edition print of that ‘oh, shat’ expression on his face!
Gabby has been playing like grit and physicality are dirt and he doesn’t want to take a shower after the game. He needs to jump right in and get filthy, that’s where playoff goals are born. Proof: Sakic’s face. That’s the face of a playoff performer. It ain’t pretty in a conventional sense, but it’s a beauty in the hockey world.
Gabby needs a scar.
I want Beaver’s take!
I want beaver!
Apparently Russoville residents have a pregame meal tonight at Tom Reid’s at 4:30
didn’t know reid’s had food.
Apparently Russoville residents have a pregame meal tonight at Tom Reid’s at 4:30
didn’t know reid’s had food.
I know nothing about Minnesota bars, but keep in mind that there are many people in this world who consider alcohol a meal.
They have food at Reid’s. Don’t they?
Oh, Dave, add my condolences to you to the list.
Of course they have food.
And KiPA, I think the ‘meal’ part was something Russo needed to appease the editors…
Thanks, Kevin. I appreciate it.
And congratulations to your squad for ousting the Sens. The Russotans who gathered before our Game 1 were watching the Pens-Sens Game 1 and thinking, “Man, this is going to be a short series.”
ok, i knew they had food. pregame meal just sounded funny to me
Where’s Ward? I think Wally and the Beav are gonna get clobbered. Then June’s gonna send ‘em straight upstairs to take a bath.
Kb- Gabby does need a scar and forever he can look at his progeny and say I earned this one in my 2008 run for Lord Stanley. A team full of finesse will not make a run for this elite trophey if does not have heart of toughness.
Thanks, Dave. That’s what a lot of people said too after Game 1, but I wasn’t so sure. We should’ve won each game by four or five (which means Gerber was better than expected, despite his uncomfortable appearance, or we weren’t good at scoring.)
I’m rooting for you guys to beat the Avs. I never did like those guys. So don’t let me down!
The Sens could have been playing the Goofers in round #1 and the U sill would have won the series in no more than 5 games. Ottawa was a complete and utter disaster going into the playoffs. What’d they start the season, like 15-2 or some ridiculous number. Can’t imagine the locals are asking for anything less than the heads of every major cog of that machine.
Dave, we were right weren’t we. Congrats Kevin, looks like my fantasy squad of 5 Pittsburgh players (along with Burns and Parise) can have a long rest, but other teams will be piling up points while my squad is pretty much idled.
Reids has food. It’s there to soak up some of the booze.
Dickie Dunn isn’t going to make it to the pre-game meal. Dickie Dunn does talk about himself in the 3rd person from time to time.
Really need a Saturday night game.
I wouldn’t mind sitting Boogie this game and getting in somebody with a little more O like Benoit. Thing is, at home Boogey spakrs the crowd which in turn can give the team some jump. Tough call there. Ah hell, keep him in there. When we can match lines he will maybe have an easier time lining up some “mega ton” missile hits.
I think we win the next 2 and we say goodbye to all the Avs trolls who will be here in approx 6 hours.
Multiple Mike will still be around though.
No Poutine at Tom Reid’s? What kinda place is this?
Thanks, EG, and serves you right for getting too many of one team!
But wow. Out of curiousity, who all do you have?
I am hopeful there is a game #7 simply because I have not been to one in person since the North Stars beat the Blues in OT (Steve Payne) in ‘86, I believe it was. Of course, I was 6-yrs-old at the time and I think it’s high time I got to see another one.
there’s a big difference between having a couple tough guys on your team and being a tough team. lots of talk about how ineffective simon, boogie, et al are when nobody will fight ‘em. we need all 18 players and both goalies playing “tough”, regardless their names.
that being said, i’d love to see Ash’s scenario play out…
Sid obviously is writing from a biased point of view with his rant about Avs players going after Gabby. Last I checked the same could be said for the Wild going after Foppa and Stastny. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. The instigator rule works both ways the Wild benefit from it also. As for the hockey, well lets just say the back of my couch isn’t being used much during the games. As far as what Ash is saying… I would respond with this.. continue to play like a goon and the Avs players will finess their way into yet another win. The wild need to concentrate on using their offensive talents by cycling and passing to create “inside scoring chances” instead of settling for the outside shot and hoping for a lucky bounce. That has been the difference in this series not the ability to send a message. The message doesn’t put goals in the other teams net.
Ok kids…I need to do the usual gameday. Back to Big Lake and then on to St. Paul.
Go Wild!!!
See some of you later…
Sid was repeating what Sonmor said on the Hartman show yesterday. He literally took that conversation and put it in his column.
I don’t think you could say that Sid said any of those things. Not defending Sid but you are giving him way too much credit on the chippiness of the Wild and Avs.
Kj: That is a drive… from Big Lake to St. Paul.
Drive Safe and Cheer Loudly.
My 7-yr-old has forgotten more about the NHL than Sid has EVER known. Sid died three years ago but he was never told. For years and years he has been notorious for taking an athlete’s or front office person’s comments from a radio interview and then putting them into his column and passing it off as if that person sat down and spent 3 hours with him for the interview.
With the exception of Game 4, every game has ended with a lucky bounce. Garbage goals, that’s what the Wild needs. Bodies and pucks to the net - non-stop.
OT a bit: word is that Osgood is in for Hasek game 5.
Deep - you just made my day (enought to tide me over til the game, at least).
“Sid died three years ago but he was never told.”
Classic.
I don’t think it’s unreasonable to say the Preds have a legit shot. I thought they outplayed the Wings in game 2 and then obviously won games 3 & 4. Just another of the myriad reasons why the NHL is better than the NBA. Think you’ll see a lot of 6 & 7 game series in the first round of the NBA playoffs? I know I won’t because I won’t watch that Burrows, but for those select few who, count on lots of 4 and 5-game first round series. Plenty of excitement there.
I do not want to have to read Sid’s article to be in the loop on this one! Won’t do it.
OHFan- We match AV on finesse that IMO is why they are so evenly matched. Of course I took the Boogy scenerio to an extreme. In the Enforcer/size/toughness department we have an edge and we should not have to deal with cheap shots on Gaborik or a boarding on Shep! Gaborik should have enough space and comfort level to fend for himself without the fear of being run. I would much rather take a two minute penalty for roughing those pest ankle biters or a ten minute game misconduct on boogy to let them know that their continued antics will no longer be tolerated. If we feel that Simon, Boogy, or Voros presence on the ice is more valuable then them sitting in a locker room well then let’s keep rolling with the same tone from the AV’s and Refs not calling it both ways. I would much rather send the message loud and early than to deal with frustration penalties throughout. Which is an agitators role. All the talk of Goons, I would rather have 10 of them than one agitator/diver on this team! With that said, Cooke Sucks!
I would love to see some points from Gabby as well, but I think we have to cut him a little slack and look at the fact that he’s pulling double-teams every time he crosses the blue line… This pressure he attracts frees up everyone else on the ice, hence making him an intangible asset on the ice. I would love to see the Wild take a chapter out of the Avs book–AGGRESSIVE penalty kill, PHYSICAL PLAY on their top guys, and a little extra curricular instigation behind the play, especially on JT… Let Simon take the Smyth shortcut through the crease a couple of times and see who comes to his rescue… At least we don’t have to see the Blueberry and Raspberry Sorbet-colored home sweaters that the Avs insist on wearing… HEY AVALANCHE, 1992 CALLED AND WANTS IT’S COLOR SCHEME BACK…
I HEARD POULIOT WAS SHARPENING HIS SKATES IN THE MORNING SKATE. HM? HE SHOULD ABSOLUTELY PLAY, AND HE WILL HIT SOMEONE AND PROBABLY DROP ‘EM.
Give me a goon who follows the Code any day over an agitator who can’t drop the gloves or own up to their actions.
SRV boarding of Stasny was cheap but at least he knew he had to stand up and fight someone for his actions.
I don’t think you can even call Sid’s writing an “article”. More like a CJ for sports.
That’s one of the main reasons I can respect teams like the Fowl and Flickers a he11 of a lot more than the Snowflakes. The Fowl and Flickers will play tough, borderline cheap, but at least they have the stones to “answer the bell” for previous transgressions when asked. The Showflakes do not have such a person. A shame, really.
Kram, The wild could of used all the timeouts they get in a NBA game the other night. It wouldn’t of made a difference the way they played in that game.
Max - Benny is a lover not a fighter - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKNCzNhQIc0
Well, I realize Sid was plagerizing the comments of Glen Sonmor who I used to have a good deal of respect for, especially back when he was with the Gophers and N-stars. He obviously has his home team at heart rather than an objective commentary on “hockey” and the play on the ice. Typical biased banter. Now the comments on Steve Moore and “what did the Av’s provide Moore after this incident. Nothing. Gone. No new contract. You “in Colorado” no nothing of how to treat hockey players. here in Minnesota, we tell a player who’s been injured, that he need not worry…”
I happen to know quite a bit about the Steve Moore situation obviously much more than Dice does. My wife works with Steve Moore’s Attorney. Mr. Kroenke and Kroenke sports did a lot for Steve Moore considering he was a minor league player prior to his call up before the infamous incident. As for Bertuzzi, he should have been expelled/banned from hockey as should any player who takes it to that level… ie..Brashear’s stick incident and few others.. unfortunately the LEAGUE doesn’t take care of it’s players reminiscent of the NFL and what Mike Ditka is trying to do for the oldtimers.
the Blueberry and Raspberry Sorbet-colored home sweaters
I’ve always thought it was more of a plum than rasberry.
Osseo, I don’t think Dice said his attorney did nothing for him. I thought he said the Avs did nothing for him.
And please, let’s not start the whole “I know so-and-so or my cousin grew up with so-and-so or my sister works with so-and-so”. Name dropping in a blog is at the same level as trolling. No way to confirm any of it, so just save it.
Tonight is a must win! It is not the best of 3 for ‘this’ team. It should be considered an elimination game. I don’t know if the Wild has the nerve to play 2 elimination games if they don’t win tonight. Get it done! Win tonight and then put them on their backs looking for 2 wins! Must win, must win, win, win, win……
“We match AV on finesse that IMO is why they are so evenly matched. Of course I took the Boogy scenerio to an extreme.” That I would love to see….still haven’t as far as “In the enforcer/size/toughness department we have an edge” I totally agree with you. That being said, everyone gets run from time to time and cheap shots are even from team to team. As far as “Gaborik should have enough space and comfort level to fend for himself without the fear of being run.” Welcome to Foppa’s career. I don’t wanna hear it. Foppa flops I give you that, but NOBODY has endured what he has had to game in and game out his whole career. The problem I have with Peter is he won’t fight to defend himself and he would rather pass than shoot. If you are going to be critical have some “actual” substance to your argument. Gabby is a phenom talent but has a lot more enduring to experience before we can start ringing the “unfair bell”. I give him this he gives it back better than Peter does.
Hey Bill, Kroenke owns the Avs…once again- uninformed.
Ash - both Beaver and Good old Wally disagree with you. In fact, both have guaranteed that the Wild will win the series if the lose Game 5. Can’t say I agree but those two formidable hockey minds predicted that Reitz would get the nod tonight.
Deep breath needs to take one.
So Reitz in for Nummelin…interesting. I think he should be in for Hill. I like the guys stats and hope he can bring something to the game tonight.
49 games played, 8 Goals, 26 Assists, 34 points, +11, and 99 PIM. 6′1, 222 and 25 years old.
He will be playing as #6.
#1 Line
Demo-Gabby-Fedoruk (2 Goals, 1 Assist)
#2 Line
Rolston-PMB-Koivu (1 Goal)
#3 Line
Shep-Belanger-Pouilet (1 Assist)
Extras:
Boogaard, Voros (10 PIM)
Defense:
Johnsson-Skoula (-1)
Burns-Carney
Hill-Reitz, would rather see Nummelin in place for Hill.
Backs in net.. 34 saves and 1 GA in the 2nd period.
Wild Win 3-1. Lone goals from Liles.
Osseo, I know he owns the Avs. What I’m saying is did they do like the Wild and sign him to a contract even though they didn’t have to? Or just let the insurance take care of the situation? I agree with your 2:50 post about Gabby and Foppa.
Noooo way you put Hill and Reitz in together, Cam. Gotta keep one of the big three minute munchers out there at all times.
Like the prediction though.
Wow…I disagree with Nummelin being out…but…
1/2 way there!
Wow. Just found out a co-worker of mine has a disease related to Lou Gehrig’s disease… not good.
I know tonights game will be epic. Something like 80%+ of teams that win game 5 go on to win the series so both teams are definately aware of that stat and that will make for a great game.
You are probably correct joey, but they will mostly play with the PMB-Roli-Koivu line…since that is a well suited defensive/offensive line.
Cam, that was my prediction for the score too, 3-1 with an empty netter, ‘course my predictions have been as good as the Don’s.
KJ I hope the force is NOT with Floppy tonight..what have you forseen?
OHF-Ok I read your response twice and would have moved on without a follow up, but you threw a ‘Actual substance to my argument’ in there. So I went back and read my intial entry at 2:22 and am still confused. When I said agitator/diver were you assuming that I was calling Forsberg both? If thats not the case, I’m confused. My comment on Gaborik was that aforemention scenerio would ease some of the pressure on him and give him some space. If you have ever seen any of my past posts I will never be the one on this blog cutting Gaborik any slack!
Hey, Kevin in PA- Sad news man. All our to your coworker.
phil…I have forseen Jos. A. Miller…
Hey Ash- my bad. I did mis-interpret your post. This is my virgin voyage.
lol kj
It will be SRV for Voros spot.
If it weren’t for the meeting I would be on my way to Reids at least for a pre-game “meal” (although I would have to eat so that would have been groovy). But noooo, I have to be here. In defience however I am wearing my Boogie t-shirt, and plan on using a hip check on my boss if he runs long.
I have been pretty busy today… but I see Reitz is in. I wish he was in for Hill. I don’t know why JL seems to hate on Nummy. I am all for giving Benny teh chance to go tonight. Let’s get a win for the good guys today!! Go Wild!
No problem OHF. I usually just get a chance to read Russo’s latest and greatest and then do a drive-by posting. But this is playoff hockey so not a lot of work getting done as of late.
Kevin, how sad.Poor guy.
Nummelin will play, My guess is he will play Wing and they will sit Simon.
I have to admit running up to the playoff, I was big on bringing in Nummy for this series. I know most on here did not like his size and some of his defensive choices. I thought he started out great in his first game back and seems to have fallen flat. You cannot single out only his starting performance in game 4, but come on this guy should be fresh.
Can Reitz handle the pressure? Can you imagine coming in on such a pivotal game? SCP is where heros are born! Reitzie as one of the loyal followers, here to you on your big night. Play smart and play hard.
May the hockey gods smile upon reitz, here in his maiden voyage.
IMHO, I hope Nummelin does not play, I thought he was the worst player on the ice for the Wild the other night. For a little guy, he didn’t seem to have any legs at all the 2nd night. I don’t know what the cause was… altitude? injury? lack of game conditioning due to all of his Healthy Scratches?
I would rather see a hungry Poliout play up front if one of the big three do not. Even though he is inexperienced, he has shown ability to create & score in small doses.
Now I know Carney isn’t a big minute muncher, but lets not forget old Yoda getting Burns on the right track. I think Reitz will be paired with him and they will both see approximately the same minutes.
Now I know Carney isn’t a big minute muncher, but lets not forget old Yoda getting Burns on the right track. I think Reitz will be paired with him and they will both see approximately the same minutes.
I wish that tandem would have had some regular season time to get some expereince together. Tonight, I wonder if JL will ever go without Burns, Johnsson or Skoula on the ice.
Band, OHF: in one of the leading understatements of the year, my boss told me “so he won’t be back to work for a while.”
For all you cry baby wild fans, this ones for you. Yes you have better inforcers that actually play. The AVS also have one ( see scott parker ) that would stand toe to toe with anyone of your goons. Problem is we have no room for a goon or enforcer when we are trying to go for our 3rd cup. There is a time and a place for the thuggery, but the playoffs especially game 5 of a tied series allows no place for it. If the Wild want to turn this into the “wild,wild,west” then the Avs will have the edge. Please do not blame the officiating either, it only cheapens your arguments and labels you all with that soccer mom mentality. We could have cried after game one about the officiating (5-1 in the pp) but who cares. I honestly loved the Wild especially in 2003 when they took it to the Avs with hard work, smart toughness, and a no excuse attitude. Many of us in Colorado were actually rooting for the Wild to go all the way that year. My have times changed. You have to earn everything you get in the playoffs, nothing is given to you unless your an Avs player picking off a Wild pass in their own zone.
unless your an Avs player picking off a Wild pass in their own zone.
uh… touché?
I guess they are early tonight…
Adam,
Good Old Wallys point is this. The Wild have a guy like Backstrom who is going to play his best hockey when facing elimination, same with a Koivou type, and really the whole team wants it this year from what I can tell.
The Wild are not facing elimination tonight, so I dont think we will see them at their best. I am not saying that they are going to lose tonight.
I have said all along that Colorado wont beat the Wild if the Wild are facing elimination, so I am saying the Wild will win the series. The thing that makes the prediction wrong is if Backstrom gets hurt or something.
I am betting on the team and Backstrom.
To know what I mean, go to the game tape of the elimination game against the Ducks last year. Backstrom played as good as a goalie can play. Its his makeup
Hey Kevin in PA, you gotta give your boss a little slack. I think having to address the issue would be difficult, well at least he/she tried. Most managers have no tact and would have probably sent out an email.
But Wally, have you lost your mind you idiot ! That sounds crazy !
I feel the stupider for having read crybabywild’s post…that was weak, talk about poisoning the well.
On keeping Voros in the lineup.
So let’s see, in Game 3 he:
- got a goaltender interference penalty that negated a goal by Veilleux
- checked an AVs player into Backstrom, which allowed the tying goal
- had basically no other positive contributions
Seriously, this guy disappeared after his first 5-6 games up from the minors. I would sit him in favor of just about anybody.
Here’s a hint, if you want to make a really good point, it comes across so much better if you spell it correctly. It is enforcer, not inforcer, and you’re, not your. You lose a lot of credibility when you can’t be bothered to use the correct words.
I’m guessing Walkom, who I think is on the air with Bettman right now on XM, has told the officials to call it closely tonight so both sides will be trying to keep the sticks down. Foppa better keep his Floppa ways to a minimum and the cheap behind the play stuff that the Avs have been getting away with will not be tolerated. The Wild have been able to kill most Power Play chances they’ve given away the key is that they will have to capitalize on any chances they will be given tonight.
GoW/Beaver, I must say though creepy, I have to admit your posts make me smile.
Phil that was a very lucid, intellegent, well thought out argument. OVERRULED!!!!!
much like your original post CBW..be gone troll or comeback with civil discourse
Hey Hey Beaver ! Why ? Nobody is ever good at predicting hockey. I am as good as it gets. I thought you were a fan Beav ?
I am right Beav. Most fans will cry in their beer if the Wild lose thinking it is over tonight. I will say it is over if Mcleod takes out Backstrom and hurts him, and the Wild lose
Ah, my tone wasn’t clear, OHF. Don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t criticizing my boss. It is a tough situation, and he said he’s not sure if my co-worker will even be back, period. He talked to him on the phone Sunday and said the guy was slurring his words, had trouble with the left side of his body. It’s like he had a stroke.
Wikipedia says this PLS usually shows up after age 50.. my co-worker’s about my age, like 26 or thereabouts.
Please guys, don’t feed the trolls, especially the 5th graders.
RE: Steve Moore & League clarification. Players can only be taken care of by the league while they are under contract or through pension if they retire. Disability/retirement benefits are based on years of service and are the same as they would be at any employer. It would have been up to the Avs to extend his contract in order for Moore to continue to receive league benefits but the Avs chose not to do that despite the circumstances of his injury. Moore received workers compensation insurance benefits but because he was a free agent that summer and his earnings potential was questionable he is still in civil litigation for future earnings losses and pain/suffering damages.
Kevin,
I was just commenting not trying to blast ya. That is some really sad stuff. May his days be blessed. I am an Avs fan but if his wish was for the Wild to win the cup then I say lets give it to him. Let him go with a smile. Reminds me of the story Rob Blake had in 2001 of his nanny/babysitter while growing up. She was dying of cancer so he took the cup over to her and shared his experience with her. Cool hockey player. One thing I can say about hockey players, they are different than the others they have “heart” and a heart if you get my drift.
Mcleod wont have to take out Backstrom, the wild defense already did that in game 4. Way to leave your goalie out to dry. What you Wild fans should be worried about is his damaged confidence after getting shelled last game. If the Avs come out and get the first goal again its over!
Right, I got ya OHF. I took no offense, just wanted to be sure we were all clear, and thanks for the kind words. I don’t know if what he’s got is fatal (at least as of right now, he does not have Lou Gehrig’s but something similar) but it also doesn’t seem like it’s anything that’s going away soon.
Claire, as far as the league is concerned, he was under contract and his condition is directly related to his playing for the NHL while under that contract. The results of injuries were sustained and his career ended while under the NHL’s contract. I agree with you about the Avs could have signed him to a contract and taken care of him. It is unfortunate they didn’t. But the NHL should take care of the players who’s careers are ended by events that happen while playing the game.
Crybabywild,
If the shoes were reversed and we had couple of guys running around the ice poking their sticks into the jocks of Sakic and Forsberg, hitting them after the whistle, making silly clown faces, and getting them off their game so they cant score. The refs call all the penalties on your team, and dont call anything on the players who are breaking the rulebook (Mcleoud) ??
I would be a crybaby for not being happy about that ?? Drink another beer AV fan and rethink
Kirk!! Am listening to “Crowd Chant” as I type..may we hear it early and often!
go get ‘em beav!
Way to go after him Beav…. You should tell him to ask how fair it was to have Boogy get a 10 minute misconduct for doing nothing against Adam Foote.. Boogy asked what did I do ? What did he do ? can anyone say ?
“Minor” note, eh Russo? Good one.
yeah but dater is a POS, so don’t believe it unless we see it
Beaver,
you would be a crybaby or you are a cry baby. Look I’m not going to sit here and say that the Avs did’nt have their share of dirty hits, cheap hits, whatever. I admit that, but come on Beaver, you cant say that your choir boy wild players were completely innocent. The first two games were amazingly fun to watch. Fast paced action and everybody into the game is what its all about. It was only when we went up 3-0 in game 4 that your wild resorted to goon play. The very first game at the “x” saw your players slashing at Foppas ankle in an attempt to take him out early, but you must have missed that one. So you can “if” your way to any scenario you want! If “ifs” were fifths we’d all be drunk!
Cheers.
Phill!! Sweet!! We’re gonna hit so hard they hear the “Bells of Lal”. Our boys will have a “Crushing Day”.
FIGHT TO THE END!!
Russo - I caught you on CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada radio on Sirius today. Good stuff!
Well, if nothing else, Russo still has his sense of humor. “minor thing forgotten there.”
It would be rather ironic if the Avs spent all those picks, funds and drama to not get passed the first round. Go Wild!
And “dwunk” you are Crybabywild.
Preach(play?) on Brother Kirk! We’ll have a “Super Colossal” win!
LOL Beav and CBW going at it!
cbw, the playoffs are rough. That’s it. Even Foppa the Floppa (or was it Joe SackItch?) admitted that the Avs probably would have done the same thing if they were down by that many goals. It’s the nature of the beast.
I love RUSSO’S humor on that post. Gosh he’s awesome. Too bad not all teams have a guy like him to dish out inside info. Keep it up Russo. You’re the best. (l)
WildLover,
Please dont be upset, I hate giving good people bad news but…….. THE WILD WILL LOSE AT HOME IN THE 7TH GAME!! Tired defense, too much pressure, arrogant coach, a team and a fan base that makes any and every excuse as to why the other team won. Oh yeah, the Avalanche are just a better team.
dont be surprised if the Wild get down early yet again, they will resort to over the top physicality, when in fact they should be taking it out on their own D or lack therof, lets hope that doesnt happen again
Osseo - Moore was taken care of by the league for the remainder of his contract. As you said, he was under a recall and not under a full NHL contract so he wasn’t an NHL player at the time so he doesn’t qualify for full disability pay, same terms as you would get at your office, if you didn’t pay for the policy for AD&D you don’t get it, higher pay rates get better policies. He did get a settlement for his injury, it just equaled his service, which was very short. If he had played the full year, or had played several years his settlement would have been larger. Yes, there should be a larger payment for career-ending injuries but the players need to take responsibility for themselves too. It is the nature of the business. If you want to protect yourself you have to carry your own riders. He was a Harvard grad, he knew the risks of the sport too. And again, the Avs knew he would lose insurance coverage from the league if they didn’t re-sign him and still chose not to do that.
Austin: How’s the new work schedule treating you? I went out to happy hour Tuesday and missed the first period and woke up yesterday sick…Note to self…miss playoff hockey and you will fall ill. Here’s to the wild curing that ailment tonight!
CBW, I GOT NEWS FOR YOU…
Glad you voiced your opinion. Want to know what i think about it??? huh? OK, here’s what I think. “Opinions are like Aholes, everybody has one. Now crawl back into your hole and stay there!
Oh, i’m not upset by the way. Who can be upset when it’s gameday, win or lose?
AustinTXwildfan,
What you heard from Peter and Joe is called professionalism! It’s like saying to your friend “it’s ok, i had an ugly girlfriend once too” Talk all you want about Foppa, he deserves a lot of what he gets but you cant deny his talent, and he makes everybody around him better all the time, even at 60%. if you want to talk trash about Joe Sakic then your on your own there, you can’t find one thing bad about this guy period!! He is what the game is all about.
Foppa may be out huh? That would be good, mostly because I don’t like the guy. “Oh I fell over! Oh I fell over again.” No one gets “tripped” that many times. I think he spends more time on the ice than a little kid just learning…… Bad Bandgeek!! Bad!! No more negativeity out of you!!!….. Breath in (go to your happy place) Breath out (again happy place). The strain of not being able to watch is getting to me. Austin how have you stood this? Makes we wish we had a DVR (and to my Mr if your reading this no you can’t go buy a DVR).
Crybaby Wild,
If I had my team playing the way your team played, I would stop being a fan. Honestly I would. The Wild have not done what they did in game 4 ever before. Your squad brought out the worst in them and I can see why.
I was thinking: has any journalist ever asked Forsberg about his antics with the dives when the evidence -in many instances- is so obvious???
Russo?
OMG, gotta love the BEAV! LMAO
thats like asking Lemaire how come his head is sooo freaking big
Yeah Lemmi, not so good. I am tired already! I will be missing tonight’s game. I might be able to listen on the internet, but I will definitely have a live tracker open. I am in Kansas City for the game on Saturday, so at leat I can watch that one.
CBW, trash talk is one thing… I just think those guys have names that make them easy to alter/make fun of. It’s like callling Radivoiavich (sp?) Retardavoiavitch. It’s jsut friendly competition and plus it makes me laugh! You can’t deny the fact that most teams would do what the wild did in that situation. That is all I was trying to say.
Bandgeek, it’s not easy!!
I love Sakic but hate Floppy by the same amount
Bankgeek: maybe he should get one of those Life Alert necklaces so when he falls and can’t get up he just presses the button and presto! Medical staff will arrive shortly and he’ll be carted off!
and apparently I think that K=D. sorry about that
If the Refs dont wake up the Wild Fans may not let them out without injury.
I think CBW has a very good point when it comes to Sakic, nothing bad whatsoever can be said about him, he is truely an icon in a sport that sorely needs them
Forsberg has made his team better. He taught a true talent how to make better dives. His name, #94 Ryan Smyth.
Beaver,
So your team has a meltdown, commits over 100 penalty minutes, throws temper tantrums like slapping the puck down the ice when you dont like a call and you want me to stop being a fan. How dare the Avalanche take the Wild out of their game!! We brought out the worst in your team? You give the Avs way too much credit man. Last i checked those were grown men playing on your team right? If my team acted like your team in game 4, i would become a Stars fan, Dallas that is.
Lemmi, if I was a BanKgeek, I’d be able to afford to go to more games.
As any hockey fan would glady say, Sakic is a asset to hockey. I would love to have him on the Wild, even at age 45. I do think this is his last year.
cbw, you didn’t watch the Avs back in the 90’s did you? Go back and see how you handled the Red Wings issue. Avs started it, and they never let it stop.
Sackitch is a class act. I can still make fun of his name though.
Cry, you better leave that one alone, just some friendly advice, beav’s big brother, Good Old Wally WILL kick your arse.
By the way no line up tonight, H. and I didn’t do such a good job. And as for this evenings prayer it’ll be short…. Oh Great Hockey Gods. Let the Wild win tonight and on Saturday. We in the S.O.H. would greatly appreciate it. Thank you. In the name of Gordie, Herbie, and the Great One, drop the puck.
AMEN!!!!!!
STOP
FEEDING
THE
TROLLS
Adrian Dater wrote one of the best hockey books about the rival Wings and Avs back in the 90′ and early 2000’s called Blood Feud, that was a nasty rival from both ends
Well guys and gals, I’m going to let you deal with the AV fans and go home, pull out the grill, cool some “Corona Light” and throw some steaks on the grill. After all, I missed the Russoville Party today!
GO WILD! FIGHT TO THE END. SHOW US WHAT YOU’RE MADE OF AND MAKE US PROUD TO BE WILD FANS
EAJP, that is true. It was damn good to watch though! No one can deny that it was the Avs that started that whole ordeal. That boarding penalty that broke, was it Konstitinov’s (sp?), jaw was absolutely brutal.
That was some of the best hockey I have ever seen, it had everything a hockey game should have, and the trash talking between the coaches in the press conferences to the players on the ice was great
LET THE MUGGING BEGIN! LOL
CryBabyWild,
Read my lips…. The Wild in 8
years of existance have
NEVER been driven to
Madness the way they were in game 4
by a team (your team).. JLs teams
never do that . That should be
enough to stop being an AVS fan
Perhaps we should exchange Gordie’s name for Bobby (Orr)? We need the help on D.
Forsbergs a pussy. 2 games in a row and a few hits from Burn’s. What a ninny. Oh hello everyone. Drankin allready. Hope I can stay aleart till gametime…….
If crybabywild would kindly leave and return to the AVagina board, it would instantly increase the average IQ of both boards by 50%
Last of my troll feeding.
So if the Wild are the so called goons on ice according to CBW, does that mean the Avs are the sillynannys on ice?
I would really like to see Pouliot play tonight. Wild need another creative player and he is exaclty that. Does anyone remember the 2 goals he scored in that Calgary game?
BP, please.
just saw in a denver article foppa feels fine and is playing
well, I have good news.
I had some free time this morning before my meetings so I availed myself of the GORGEOUS spring weather (read: lots of extra, er, skin on display) to stroll around midtown Manhattan for a while.
…and I happened past the RBK/NHL store. So I go in, and check out the wares (and if you get the catalog it’s pretty much the same, except they also stock some RBK shoes, etc) and I’m chatting with one of the sales guys about the games last night and whatever…
…well, long story short, I bought a jersey (the IRR home jersey). And as the kid was ringing me up I said “so, if I buy this you guys will make it so they win tonight, right?”
And he was like “wha…oh, yeah! Totally dude!”
So, we got that going for us…
Which is nice.
Dave from previous thread. So sorry. I have 2 boxers, they are sisters and one of them is sick right now. They are very sweet so hearing about your lose hit me a little hard. My condolences to you and your fiance.
Beav, dontcha think you were a little hard on the baby?
Wait, that’s not the punch line.
And don’t underestimate the power of the retail cashier!
