Anaheim Ducks 4, Wild 2; Gaborik hopes to return this week
Posted on December 14th, 2008 – 6:28 PMBy Michael Russo
Monday update: Corrected the typos in here in bold. As you could tell if you read this originally, I was in a hurry to get out of the arena last night. Thanks to 135 mph tailwinds (according to the pilot) though, we got back to the Cities super quick.
I love late-night flights, especially ones filled with disgruntled Wild fans. (I should have worn a hat and sun glasses) 
Stensaas will be at practice today at 1, which I appreciate. Like any good linemate, he took one for the team to give me a surprise day off. Grazi.
I heard you all are getting pummeled back in the Twin Cities. I’m hoping to get on a red-eye tonight, so I can’t imagine what I’ll be flying into. Serves me right after five full days of fun in the sun.
Did I tell you I ran into Larry King at Nate ‘n Al’s this morning in Beverly Hills?
Wild lost its fifth straight in regulation for the first time in franchise history tonight. Wild’s 1-6 in December and has gained two points in the standings since Nov. 29.
Struggling teams have to find the positives and build on them, so predictably, it felt like we were roaming a winner’s dressing room after the game. Player after player — and coach Jacques Lemaire – called this a moral victory.
Like I said, that’s what struggling teams do, and the Wild is two points ahead of 13th-place Columbus right now.
And it is true, even when the Wild was trailing 2-0, you knew it wasn’t over. The Wild’s players were skating well and generating chances, and after the previous four games, generating chances alone should be considered a coup for this offensively-challenged squad.
Help could be on the way though. After the game, Marian Gaborik, who’s missed 27 of the Wild’s 29 games, said, “I’m hoping I can be in the lineup this week. It’s my goal to play this week, definitely.”
The Wild not only needs Gaborik’s speed and scoring ability, it needs an emotional pick-me-up. As Marc-Andre Bergeron said to me after the game, “When things are going well, it doesn’t really matter. But right now, we sure could use a guy like this.”
The Wild gave up early goals to Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry (if you didn’t see Perry’s goal, watch it on NHL.com. Very sweet goal all around by Perry and linemate Chris Kunitz).
But Derek Boogaard, who missed an open net earlier in the period, was put on the power play and stationed himself in front of Jean-Sebastien Giguere. Bergeron fired by the statue that was Boogey and cut the deficit to 2-1.
The goal was sparked, by the way, from Erik Reitz goading Travis Moen into a cross-checking penalty. The two then followed that with big-league fight.
Early in the second, Pierre-Marc Bouchard set up Eric Belanger’s tying goal off a 2-on-1, but the Wild comeback was short-lived. A bad play in the neutral zone allowed Brendan Morrison to get a step on Bergeron and score the eventual winner (to add insult to injury, the Wild tried hard to sign Morrison this summer).
But the killer came when Kim Johnsson coughed up the puck to noted playmaker George Parros. Parros set up Bobby Ryan for a 4-2 Ducks lead with 1:14 left in the second.
Johnsson was a minus-3 for the second time since he was named December captain, and not surprisingly, Jacques Lemaire stood up for his top minuteman.
When you’re struggling, any mistake kills. This especially killed because the Wild can’t score. It’s scored the fewest goals in the West (76), so to ask them to rally from a two-goal deficit for the second time in the same game? No chance in heck.
And continuing a recent trend of mind-blowing misses on open nets, James Sheppard hit the post in the third. Yesterday, Pierre-Marc Bouchard hit two posts on a similar gaping net. In Phoenix, Belanger missed an open net.
Something could be cooking between the Wild and Atlanta by the way. I was told two days ago from a source of mine in the league that the two teams were talking trade. Then, all of a sudden, Atlanta Thrashers GM Don Waddell appears and attends both Wild games in California. And during the first intermission, Waddell and Wild GM Doug Risebrough looked to be having a serious conversation.
By the way, there’s a week roster freeze that begins Friday, so if anything happens at all before Christmas, it’d have to happen before Friday.
Anyway, I’ve got to catch this flight, and it’s all the way up at LAX. I’m sure you’re reeling from the Wild right now and the latest loss, but it was a very good hockey game finally. It’s been awhile. Lots of skating, open ice and chances.
442 Responses to "Anaheim Ducks 4, Wild 2; Gaborik hopes to return this week"
Blizzard has me locked in the house with the Mr. and the kids through tomorrow…we need a good Wild game to keep us busy! GO WILD!
There is no spoon.
There is no spoon…only Zuul.
ZUUL!!!
Don’t look at the paintings eyes kj.
What awesome nerdiness. F-ing love it. I am the gatekeeper.
Nice doggie.
Last chance for the Wild to end the losing streak before Gaby injects some life into this squad. Score a few tonight eh boys!!
I hope this isn’t as painful as the last couple. I am ready for a surprising effort. Go Wild!
What are you supposed to be, some kind of a cosmonaut?
Nah, we’re exterminators. Somebody saw a cockroach up on 12th.
That’s gotta be some cockroach.
Bite your head off man. Going up?
I’ll take the next one.
Jimlove, Ghostbusters?
Let’s go Wild! I am sick of this losing streak! And I hate the effin Ducks!!
Word, Austin. I feel a big loss here but I hope I’m wrong.
So, a quick poll:
Are you watching tonight because:
A. You think the Wild have a chance to win.
B. You feel the need to bear witness to the boys being made to look silly.
Buddha, I pick option C: I have nothing to do on a Sunday night, and I like hockey.
People consider the Red Wings to be the model franchise, remember not too many years earlier than before Scotty Bowman arrived there.
The Red Wings were bottom feeders most of the years the North Stars were in town.
For respect for Bowman’s ability, perhaps the Blackhawks will become the class of the league for the next few years.
I expect the Wild to have gotten the message and win tonight.
So I went to the Ducks blog… honestly, just because I can’t believe that anyone would care about a Ducks blog (and I was right)… anywho, there was only one post but it is definitely a post that us Wild fans can relate to…
“Perhaps if Ducks announcer Brian Heyward was more professional, instead of a whiney homer, the team would garner more respect in the broadcast world. He makes games unwatchable.”
I am pretty sure we have said those exact same words of D&D before.
I’m going with Austin’s option of C. And Buddha, read your blog and completely agree with your assessment of UM.
C’mon boys… if the Vikes can pull off a good game today, you can too!
I forgot that answer ATX… thanks for adding it.
Thanks BG. I try.
Option C. And I need to break this “lost” addiction
I’m watching cause I like hockey and want to see the Wild at least compete.
I’m not sure a loss tonight could be considered big, even considering their history. I think the only thing that would be big tonight is a win. I’ll be pleased with a point and/or a clear change in energy and effort.
And I need to break this “lost” addiction
Is there a Lost Addicts club of some sort?? O should probably join that as well. Damn Ben is a jackass!!
I really want to see JSG to throw another temper tantrum. That would totally make my night.
Iam going with C also. The WILD will win tonight. The Vikes won big today, so hell froze over and the Wild will win.
Oooh, I forgot about that WATX. I’d like to see that again too!
Well then…. that is not the start we were looking for…
DAMNIT.
HOLY CRAP! I AM PISSED.
I’m watching because I’m a little too anxious to watch the football game. Could make or break four finals apeparances for me.
Mother smurfin’ crack monkey!!!!
I have two thoughts in my head for what may happen…
The first is the Wild gets absolutely steamrolled. Talking huge, embaraasing loss, like the 9-2 pasting KiPA’s team put up the other day, except on the bad end of it.
The other is the Wild come out and play hard, and win. They have a history of raising their game to meet the opponent, and dropping to do just the same. I am not good with odds, but the safe bet has to be on them losing, and it not being close…
How bout those Steelers Kev? See what happens when you pass to Ward!?!
Boogie!!!
OHHHH!!! Boogie!!! He should have bagged that one for sure. That was rough.
If only it was anyone but boogaard.
Boogey… damn it…
Lets get something going on this PP. Set the tone and forget about the early goal.
Yep, Austin. Ben’s a jerk though and he wanted to eliminate you from the title run.
Maybe THAT goal was a wake up call?
As if the others in the past 4 games weren’t?????
That ending of the Pitt game was crazy. I needed them to win for pigskin pickem.
Lots of people in seat costumes at the pond tonight.
Darn close for my Boogie and Weller almost had the rebound.
Ben’s a jerk though
Amen to that.
Ben is a jerk, KiPA. But not for that reason.
I thought we got a break on that TD, RG. I didn’t think Santonio caught it with it over the goalline.
Oh, for the love of god. This is going to be hard to watch.
Wow. We look like a pee wee squad. U G L Y.
Holy Sh*t… We looked silly.
Made us look pathetic
Ugh. I already don’t know if I want to watch the rest. This is getting depressing.
Buddha, I think its scenario 1.
Umm… I suddenly have a big problem. I heard a funny plastic like crack and now my Christmas tree is listing, the base just cracked. I need to go get my ornaments off it before it goes over. Stupid cheep decade old fake tree.
When does boogie pick a fight? They could at least make this ugly for Anaheim too.
When Wild fans start realizing that Brent Burns, Nick Schultz, and most of the Wild Roster, are just mediocre players, and that the first part of the season was a fluke we will all be happier.
Have they fired Risebrough yet????
BG - tent stakes and twine. sacrifice your floor!
Um….what happened? I guess the team meeting didn’t help this morning.
Weee.. trolls.
Until Wild fans call for Risebroughs head on a platter, the team will never be nothing more than mediocre MAYBE we make the playoffs only to be blown out team.
Im not a troll, I am a local Minnesotan, who sees the Wild as a average hockey club.
You don’t have to be an out-of-stater to be a troll.
this is getting funny. Bouchard is so awful when he isn’t riding Rolston’s coat tails. Worst re-signing in Wild history. 4.25 million a year for a garbage player on top of the almost 5M a year for Johnsson, only person Doug can blame for this terrible team is his own self.
“Weee.. trolls.”
LOL
yep… a troll.
And I’m not entirely sure what DR has to do with the team deciding that showing up for games is optional.
Truth hurts. The Wild are NEVER EVER mentioned as a Stanley Cup contender…reason…they are mediocre.
I mean come on, Nick Schultz? Brent Burns? Marek Zidlicky? Martin Skoula? Cal Clutterbuck? I mean there are only a few players on this team that would crack most of the stronger Western Conference teams top 2 lines
RG- Yeah… that’s where the safe moeny was…
BG- JB Weld!!!!
DR is responsible for putting together this group of highly touted scorers….all one of them.
So I am a troll because I don’t think the Wild are god’s gift to the NHL? Oh Okkkk
last ndhockey mom post was me…
I have been told that I’m not allowed to feed the trolls.
What is the over under for Wild goals scored tonight by this highly talented group of scorers….ONE?
Good boy Rietz.
t think the Wild are god’s gift to the NHL?
I don’t believe anyone here said they were. It’s one thing to be a bit critical, it’s a complete other to be an idiot about it… exhibit A being Dan.
When was the last time Lemaire won a Cup??? Just wondering.
Typical Minnesota sports fans, all think there teams are the greatest.
Yeah WATX, there’s a sign when you enter the zoo.
What am I being an idiot about? The Wild will be lucky if they make the playoffs this year.
I see the Gophers caught Wilditis today.
I don’t think that you can find a single post here that says “we think that the Wild and all Minnesotan teams are the best teams EVER, and we have the highest scoring offense.”
Find one and show it to me. Until then, I’m done with you.
Moen got the extra two, thats fortunate.
Laugh @ The Wild says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
I mean come on, Nick Schultz? Brent Burns? Marek Zidlicky? Martin Skoula? Cal Clutterbuck? I mean there are only a few players on this team that would crack most of the stronger Western Conference teams top 2 lines
Koivu, Burns, Gaborik, Backstrom, and Schultz could play for anybody.
RS- When was the last time YOU won a Cup??? Just wondering.
Typical Minnesota sports fans, all think there teams are the greatest.
You don’t effin listen do you? I never said they were great. Just because I am an optimist means I am all up on Doug’s knob? I am just as frustrated as everyone else, I am just more patient I guess. I am through with you unless you decide to be reasonable and stop making up things.
Yes, I said all along the Wild will either get blown out in the first round of the playoffs yet again or will miss it entirely. The later is now looking more likely and should seal the fate of Doug (lets sign Simon) Risebrough.
wtf is Boogie doing on the PP??
Boogie’s on the PP?
Boogy on PP…wow. Gotta luv it.
Woot! Okay let’s go boys!
Guess it’s effective. Yay!
Reitz needs to ditch the visor if he is going to drop em. Cal too. Boogs deserves an assist on that one!
Oh! With Boogie in front… I think I may have suggested that a time or two…
Buddha says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
RS- When was the last time YOU won a Cup??? Just wondering
that’s not even a valid argument. one is a highly overrated head coach in the NHL and the other is a working class stiff that has nothing to do with the NHL other then being a fan.
Yay for scoring on the PP. I wouldn’t want Boogie screening me.
MAB, momentary exemption from official skoula designation. OK, moment over.
Given his propensity for quoting the entire post when he responds, I’m going to go out on a limb and say that Laugh @ The Wild = Dan.
They looked so excited about that goal…
Dammit Schultzie.
Oh Great Buddha….you should be coach I guess???
Boogie can screen the goalie. That’s been missing.
hahaha
too funny. follow up a goal by being careless with their stick. Schultz knows better.
Reitz needs to ditch the visor if he is going to drop em. Cal too. Boogs deserves an assist on that one!
There is no way that is the REAL Dan saying that….
I should be a coach. Honestly.
OK, they need to get control of the strobe light…
WTF…Ducks flashing lights on Harding while the game is in play>>>
Well, Dan probably is MKIAing tonight.
WildinATX says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Given his propensity for quoting the entire post when he responds, I’m going to go out on a limb and say that Laugh @ The Wild = Dan
uh, probably not. I couldn’t care less what you think, I don’t have the need to hide behind a different name.
RS- From the sounds of it, you think you should be.
AustinTXwildfan says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:33 pm
Reitz needs to ditch the visor if he is going to drop em. Cal too. Boogs deserves an assist on that one!
There is no way that is the REAL Dan saying that….
no doubt. i don’t care if they fight with full masks or no helmets. there shouldn’t even be fighting in hockey.
I care what you think. I need the boost to my self-esteem. Pay attention to ME!!!
Dan - it doesn’t matter to me what you care about.
And Dan, I thought you had a blog? Can you seriously not figure out how to not pull the entire post that you’re responding to?
RG, I’ll pay attention to you!
I am not even responding to that… What’s with the flashing lights?
Thanks WATX. Big kill.
Selanne is such an actress. “Did you see that high stick ref? In case you didn’t I’m going to play dead on the ice for you.”
Hey troll: what are you being idiotic about? How ’bout the difference between “their” and “there” for starters.
Blake Wheeler has 9 goals. Our leading goal scorer has 10 (Koivu). WTF????
Selanne was great in his day,
One assumes the strobe light guy foolishly thought the Ducks scored so he shone the light on the supposed goalscorer.
Selanne was great in his day,
This I agree with. Selanne and Kayria were a hell of a combo.
Oh, I see now. Risebrough Sux is a “we need more Minnesotans” guy.
No matter that Wheeler wanted to play somewhere else because he’s a young guy who wanted to live outside of MN for a little while.
KiPA, did you watch that 9-2 game? Quite the schooling. And Dupuis with the trick?
Wouldn’t it be best for Colton Gillies to be sent to Houston to get more experience. Not sure why he is on the roster and a healthy scratch every day.
I think it is Dan. If it isn’t that means we just fed two trolls(idiots) tonight.
Ugh. Really RS?
Selanne was great in his day,
Ha. Because 14 goals and 27 points in 30 games sucks.
WildinATX says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Oh, I see now. Risebrough Sux is a “we need more Minnesotans” guy.
No matter that Wheeler wanted to play somewhere else because he’s a young guy who wanted to live outside of MN for a little while.
we don’t need more Minnesotans, but we do need a whole lot less figure skating French Canadians.
Yeah, I was there, RG.
I see WiATX hates Minnesota boys. Vanek Kessel and a ton of other MN/Gopher boys are playing great in the NHL. Too bad Doug Risebrough prefers non Minnesotans.
Risebrough Sux says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Wouldn’t it be best for Colton Gillies to be sent to Houston to get more experience. Not sure why he is on the roster and a healthy scratch every day.
can’t go to Houston. You have to be 20 to play in the AHL.
KiPA +1
Hey- I’m not saying he sucks as a goal scorer. I’m saying he’s an actress, a whine-baby if you will.
Gillies can’t be sent to Houston without losing a year on his entry level contract. Do we seriously have to go through this AGAIN?
Ha. Because 14 goals and 27 points in 30 games sucks.
Very true… how about, “He’s awesome for an old guy”?
Good one to be at KiPA.
Risebrough Sux says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
I see WiATX hates Minnesota boys. Vanek Kessel and a ton of other MN/Gopher boys are playing great in the NHL. Too bad Doug Risebrough prefers non Minnesotans.
An Austrian and a drunkin Sconi, they aren’t Minnesotans.
Yeah, I hate all Minnesotans. That’s it. Jeez.
It was, RG. A rare non-cardiac arrest game.
Re: Gillies, why not at least put him in every few games. Not like the Wild forwards are lighting up the net.
An Austrian and a drunkin Sconi, they aren’t Minnesotans.
Best Dan post ever.
Better energy, still need more offense. The energy guys (Clutterbuck, Boogie, etc.) have done their job. Time for PMB, Poobah, Shep, Bela, Mittens to step up.
WildinATX says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Gillies can’t be sent to Houston without losing a year on his entry level contract. Do we seriously have to go through this AGAIN?
He can’t go to Houston at all. he’s not old enough. He could and should go back to junior. Who cares if they lose a year. That year is being wasted being scratched every game anyway. Either way the Wild are getting absolutely no production out of Gillies so they might as well send him back to junior so he can actually play some hockey.
They are Gophers and played for the great Don Lucia. Vanek lives in MN with his beautiful wife. Great guy.
So what are the odds that Risebrough does not return this next year. I heard he was a no show on WCCO radio this morning.
Hey…how about those Vikings!!!!
Gillies played last game. If you are going to post at least pay attention.
You are correct Dan. I noticed my error after I hit submit.
See? It’s not hard to admit when you’re wrong.
Think Risebrough will sign Avery.
he was a no show on WCCO radio this morning.
Hopefully that means he was busy talking on the phone with potential Go-bore-ick suitors. I wouldn’t count on that though.
Gillies played last game. If you are going to post–try to pay attention to the game.
WildinATX says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:48 pm
You are correct Dan. I noticed my error after I hit submit.
See? It’s not hard to admit when you’re wrong.
I would if I ever was. Thanks for caring.
*Reminder* Dan is worthless. Every comment he types is an idiotic attempt to self-promote. Please disregard.
If I played hockey, I would miss Sid’s show too. Sid asks the stupidest question like so what position to you?
Think Risebrough will sign Avery.
Nothing would get me on the “fire Doug” bandwagon any faster. There is no single player I hate more than Avery. Not Burrows, not Kessler, not Cookie, not Tucker, not Pronger, not Ruutu…. you get the idea..
Risebrough Sux says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:49 pm
Think Risebrough will sign Avery.
I wish. If this team isn’t going to be good anyway, might as well do what you can to make all the losing entertaining. Avery would definitely do that and he can be had dirt cheap. I’d wait to get him off re-entry waivers though. Save the team 7M bucks.
Yes, Gillies played a total of 8 mins and it was only his 2nd game played in December. Not exactly getting a years worth of experience.
Wow Dan, I was going to try to not be an ass to you. However, I have changed my mind.
Did Terhaar pass his stone yet?
I would if I ever was. Thanks for caring.
I know you are but what am I?
I would if I ever was.
What abut that whole verbal contract thing??
Ugh.. I am doing it again. Someone take my beef jerky away, I keep giving it to the trolls.
AustinTXwildfan says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:53 pm
I would if I ever was.
What abut that whole verbal contract thing??
Ugh.. I am doing it again. Someone take my beef jerky away, I keep giving it to the trolls
I’m not wrong. If it isn’t in writing, it doesn’t exist, even if the agreement was made. Bouchard would have no grievance to file since he can’t verify it actually happened.
Me thinks after the Simon fiasco, even the dumbest of GM’s would hesitate signing someones sloppy seconds.
ATX… we have a boycott in place. Do we need to put sanctions on you for violating that boycott?
Feed the trolls if you want, but honor the boycott. 
“even the dumbest of GM’s would hesitate signing someones sloppy seconds.”
+1
Well played.
I’m not wrong. If it isn’t in writing, it doesn’t exist, even if the agreement was made. Bouchard would have no grievance to file since he can’t verify it actually happened.
As someone who is married to a lawyer I can tell you that there is legal precedent to be had with a verbal contract. I know there are other lawyers that post here that would agree. You are wrong on that point, and that is all I will say on the subject.
Buddha — I never signed onto the boycott, can I still feed Dan?
Thanks…why did my Risebrough Sux name change to Kevin in PA???
Actually that wasn’t me, Buddha.
ATX… we have a boycott in place. Do we need to put sanctions on you for violating that boycott?
Feed the trolls if you want, but honor the boycott
Sorry Buddha, I will behave now!! Promise!
Oh, and +1 to Kev… well played indeed sir.
AustinTXwildfan says:
December 14th, 2008 at 7:58 pm
I’m not wrong. If it isn’t in writing, it doesn’t exist, even if the agreement was made. Bouchard would have no grievance to file since he can’t verify it actually happened.
As someone who is married to a lawyer I can tell you that there is legal precedent to be had with a verbal contract. I know there are other lawyers that post here that would agree. You are wrong on that point, and that is all I will say on the subject.
I’m not wrong at all. It’s just like when high school kids make verbal commitments to college and then end up going to a different school. if it isn’t in writing, it never happened. Bouchard can be traded and can’t say a thing about it.
Dang….my name changed without my knowledge.
Thanks…why did my Risebrough Sux name change to Kevin in PA???
Glitch in the blog RSux. Gotta keep an eye out for that problem. If you just refresh your browser once or twice, that usually takes care of the problem.
Well… still a good line. Even spoken by a troll.
It’s a virus RS. If it happens to you, you have it. Only way to removed it is to hit alt-F4. If that doesn’t work, try shutting down your comp for a couple days, usually gets rid of it.
Geesh…every time I post it changes my name to Kevin in PA and provides the email and hitting the post blog address. What is going on????
If Bouchard or Schultz get traded before the expiration of their verbal NTC, the Wild will NEVER be able to sign any player who wants to trust the management. Ever.
Budda…now who is the troll.
Nice Buddha… I ruined it by trying to be nice though… my bad.
WATX- You can if you want… we were hoping to starve him out…
Pretty sure the agreement by DR and PMB was confirmed in the media by DR, so…
ATXw… WORK WITH ME HERE! Come on…
RS- You are.
Buddha….can you tell me your IP address.
RS - The hockey gods want you to be more like KiPA.
Guess so. Does that mean I think the Wild will win in the first round of the playoffs this year??
Sure could RS. Give me five or six minutes, I could likely tell you yours too.
Bela!
Unreal… Bela. Nice!
Nice goal. Wow did the goalie over commit.
Woohoo!!!!
Gopher it Buddha. I bet I beat you to the punch.
SWEET!! Nice one Bella!! He didn’t wat himself out like he usually does. misplay by Jiggyster helped.
Buddha says:
December 14th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
WATX- You can if you want… we were hoping to starve him out…
Pretty sure the agreement by DR and PMB was confirmed in the media by DR, so…
once again, if it isn’t written in Bouchard’s contract, it doesn’t count.
You can’t even figure out how to remove the hitting the post link from your name, how are you going to figure out my IP?
Ok Dan. You can ignore the law and the facts if you’d like. I’m certainly not going to stop you.
I don’t have a static IP and just refreshed. So keep it coming oh great Buddha.
Somebody should send in a question about passing stones.
When was the last time the Wild lost 5 in a row?
True or False: Parros keeps the mustache because it is part of his “old school tought guy” look but secretly thinks he looks ridiculous.
Passing stones. Sounds painful
RS- Got your internet for dummies book out do ya?
Throwing the static IP out there. Intimidating.
WildinATX says:
December 14th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Ok Dan. You can ignore the law and the facts if you’d like. I’m certainly not going to stop you.
I know the law and I’m right. That’s why players and teams have contracts. Any stipulations like that have to be written to be enforced.
Viker: never
I think it’s ironic RG. Somebody as well-educated as he is has to know he looks like a douchebag with it.
RG, True.
Viker44, I would like to know that as well… I am too lazy to look it up though.
True RG!
damnnnnn
Damn!!!
Damnit.
Okay, I was just about to say how much I like Harding. Am I bad luck?
what a non surprise. a guy who hasn’t done anything all year scores on the Wild.
Damn.
Viker44 says:
December 14th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
When was the last time the Wild lost 5 in a row?
last year, November I believe.
How the hell does Detroit do it? You would think after a season of hockey they would tucker out at the end of the year
I eat dick.
I’d really love to hear your well researched thesis on the law of verbal contracts Dan. Please let me know when it’s ready.
Harding is no Backstrom, but is still a decent backup.
I think I was mistaken. The wild has never lost 6 in a row and hasn’t lost 5 since 2003. I think.
“RS- Got your internet for dummies book out do ya?
Throwing the static IP out there. Intimidating.”
Also well played. Well played indeed.
I’m wrong, it was even more recent then that. From tonight’s NHL preview….
The Wild’s last five-game slide was an 0-2-3 stretch from March 4-13.
at least they got 3 points in that one. they ain’t getting any during this one.
Are we talking without a win or losing streak?
WildinATX says:
December 14th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
I’d really love to hear your well researched thesis on the law of verbal contracts Dan. Please let me know when it’s ready.
pay me and I’ll do it. I’m not wasting my time researching something I don’t need to research for free.
Oy. *rolls eyes* Any more posts on here tonight by me aren’t made by the real me. Gonna go drink. Have fun arguing with each other.
I’m just hoping for a point out of this game. It would be nice to change things up coming into the Flames game this week
Miettinen, 2 minutes for being lazy.
We’ll miss ya KiPA…
Have one for me will ya?
See ya Kev. Have one for me.
I think you need professional help Dan. I don’t think I could imagine something as annoying and bizarre as you. I’m with KiPA. See you all later.
Supper time…
Losing without a point,
I’m sorry Dan, I thought you just “knew” things.
R Sux: I had the same problem as you the other night. It changed names a few times then quit. I don’t know what caused it.
RogueGopher says:
December 14th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
Are we talking without a win or losing streak?
They have never lost 5 games in a row without getting at least a point. They have lost 5 in a row 5 different times in team history, including 2 times last year.
The name change happens to me also. It then fills in the email address and website if applicable.
It’s not so bad Russo. Cold. Weather folks still say snow tonight, but they said it would be here earlier too.
Never can trust ‘em.
Okay, time to get the PP working…. heheh that’s what she said.
Okay, so I am like 12… sue me.
That’s why I shoulda been a weather guy. Only job you can be wrong 90% of the time and still keep your job.
Weather guys and CEOs Photog.
That’s what she said???? You need the little blue pill
Too true Buddha
How much money does Ian Leonard make. Talk about being wrong more times than being right.
Hey, leave Ian the Iowan alone.
[…] Russo’s Rants – […]
[…] http://www.startribune.com – […]
Turn off cookies for the Strib site. It’ll solve the name change problem.
I was a network engineer in a former life.
Arg.
What is the Wilds record with Johnsson as captain. OUCH
Your Captain, folks!
My hopes of a point out of this game seem to be fading fast.
Bet Lemaire will not say a word about Johnsson’s play. Now if that was Sheppard.
Time to switch over and watch Romeo fight with TO.
We just cannot pick up the loose pucks in front of the net.
at least my fantasy team got a goal out of Ryan. always a good thing.
This team is playing so bad lately… hmmm… Johnnson gets the ‘C’ and the team slides… give it to a real captain!
Wow, Pronger’s so soft-spoken. I assumed he yelled a lot and breathed fire…
Can we just please trade Johnsson now? Not just a horrid month under his captaincy, but he’s our most expensive D and seems to be making more blatant or dumb mistakes than in past years. We’re deep on solid NHL D-men and Foster’s back before too long. Johnsson ought to net a decent and competent offensive C or W in return.
Any thoughts on just what we might be able to get in return?
Hey ms.conduct, I think you beat me in FF this week. Congrats!
MNBrew says:
December 14th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Can we just please trade Johnsson now? Not just a horrid month under his captaincy, but he’s our most expensive D and seems to be making more blatant or dumb mistakes than in past years. We’re deep on solid NHL D-men and Foster’s back before too long. Johnsson ought to net a decent and competent offensive C or W in return.
Any thoughts on just what we might be able to get in return?
Skoula and Zidlicky need to be dealt before Johnsson. However, all 3 need to be removed from the roster.
How was the net Ms C?
As, I stated before, if the boys don’t play because Johnsson is the Captain, then they shouldn’t even be playing.
Not good enough excuse to suck, IMO.
At least I’m not watching the TWolves.
Risebrough Sux says:
December 14th, 2008 at 8:48 pm
At least I’m not watching the TWolves.
they still exist?
I’m with you sunshine. The captain doesn’t have quite that much clout, especially with the rotating.
Yeah, but I hear Pooh Richardson is no longer on the team.
Johnsson’s play was unforgivable. However, he is a solid d-man and should NOT be traded unless its for considerable talent. He should not simply be dumped.
So why is Boogy not on the PP this time. Sometimes I just don’t get Lemaire.
It was a horrible giveaway by Johnsson but where were the other guys supporting him. Seemed like he was in the defensive zone by himself. IF they boys were in a line change, why change in the middle of a breakaway. What idiocy?
Johnsson may be solid, but he is over paid and I would trade him just to relieve the salary cap pressure if we could get decent value in return.
Burns needs to go back to D.
Burns needs to go back to D.
Yes sir.
If your top offensive player is worth $7-8 million I think your best defensive player is worth $5-6 million. And he is our best defensive player.
OK, I forgive Boogey for issing that, but how the hell does shep miss that?
Is it just me or is Harding playing a little lazy, just not as square? He hasn’t played much so maybe that’s why it seems that way.
But best does not mean 6 million.
Too sharp of an angle buddha
Tough angle for Shep.
I think that is kinda his style sunshine, not always as square as Backs, more apt to do the crappie flop to make the save.
RS, you’re right. But I think Johnsson is worth his money.
RogueGopher says:
December 14th, 2008 at 8:59 pm
If your top offensive player is worth $7-8 million I think your best defensive player is worth $5-6 million. And he is our best defensive player.
Burns got dealt? Schultz got dealt?
Johnsson minus 3 tonight and minus 5 for season. If he is our best..well..Risebrough sux.
Johnsson has a $4.85 million cap hit not $6 million.
Not sure what you’re point is Dan.
RS.. he’s a defender. Foster’s +/- was great. +/- is about the most worthless stat there is.
5.25 salary thought. What is he being paid next year.
Belanger has had a good game tonight. The problem is that we need the TEAM to have a good game… not just one or two players.
Look at the best defensmen and their plus minus. Think you will find there is value to the number. Not the end all, but name a better stat to judge a defensemen.
Johnsson is the best defensemen. Even with Burns at D, Johnsson still plays tremendous minutes.
Schultz is good but he doesn’t play all situations. Burns is the closest to Johnsson.
When Boogie has the highest +/- on the team that does not bode well for the rest of the team.
Austin, +1
Cap hit is what matters anyways.
Skoula plays alot of minutes also. SHould he make 5 mil
Isn’t this the last year of Johnsson’s contract?
Not is you are the owner paying the salary,
I hope so.
Johnsson has one more year with a $4.85M cap hit. Skoula is only 1.8. Only…yeah right.
Defensemen can’t be judged simply by their stats. Johnsson is often paired with a weaker partner. His ability to skate the puck out of trouble is very valuable. Our team defense lately has been horrible and has left Johnsson scrambling more than a few times. ATOI is a better measurement but still not always accurate.
What happened to BNAG? Anyone?
I am so not invested in the game at this point… the Wild need to do something here.
Skoula doesn’t play Johnsson minutes. Johnsson at least 25 minutes a night. Skoula 19 minutes a night — he doesn’t even go up against top lines either or play in all situations.
Yeah, cap hit is really what matters because in the end, it affects other personnel.
RS- time on ice, goals, points, assists… +/- tells a very limited story. We just had this discussion. leaders in +/- are riddled with no names
That was a nice spread eagle.
Nice save Josh.
1. Alexander Semin, WAS 19
2. Simon Gagne, PHI 18
3. Blake Wheeler, BOS 18
4. Evgeni Malkin, PIT 17
5. Marc Savard, BOS 17
Big names here.
sunshine says:
December 14th, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Johnsson is the best defensemen. Even with Burns at D, Johnsson still plays tremendous minutes.
Schultz is good but he doesn’t play all situations. Burns is the closest to Johnsson.
Burns is one of the top 10 best defenseman in the game. Johnsson is nothing but an overpaid, mid tier d-man. Schultz plays much better defense then Johnsson as well. Looking at Johnsson’s minutes is misleading due to the fact he shouldn’t be playing anywhere near the minutes he does. He should be given 5 minutes a night less then he is playing now. It’s also no surprise that once Burns got moved up to forward the Wild started to play bad. The Wild will now be 6-9 with Burns at forward. They were 9-4-1 before the move.
Those are forwards who play an average of 15-19 minutes.
Johnsson ATOI 24, Zidlicky 22. No comparison in their play.
look at last year RS, don’t use a quarter season as reference.
So we should start placing bets on how many times Turdhar’s voice cracks during a game. Or we could turn it into a drinking game… would probably get hammered doing that though.
Leave poor Terhar alone. He was recently released from CCO so this is his only gig.
Boogaard…so sick of it. If that useless pile scores his two freebies earlier in the game we’re not trailing. Of course, it’s hardly fair to expect him to do anything with that stick in his hands. That’s why we forgive, and put him out with less than 4 minutes left in the game. Garbage.
The Wild’s losing streak has at least as much with the complete lack of scoring. This team was always undermanned on offense. Our defense has suffered and yes that is in part due to the loss of Burns on D. But the idea that Johnsson is our problem is ignorant. Johnsson’s ATOI is especially significant when paired with the team gaa and save % over the last 2 1/2 years. To suggest that Johnsson has nothing to do with that is simply not true.
Turdhar needs to go through puberty first.. .then I will leave him alone.
Wild are just going through the motions in the third period. This team has not been that fun to watch lately. Usually I am entertained by Wild game regardless of the outcome, but lately it has not been able to hold my interest.
Well, do we have any reason to believe any of our young players will turn into stars.
I feel the same way Austin, and I don’t like it.
Wild Undermanned on offense…Risbrough sux. He is the architect of this group of high scoring players.
Zids doesn’t go up against top lines like Johnsson.
ES TOI: Johnsson 19 minutes vs. 17 minutes.
PK TOI: Johnsson - 3:45 minutes vs. Zids 1:50.
The only TOI that Zids leads Johnsson is on the PP because Lemaire has Johnsson playing big minutes on ES and PK.
on a plus note, we will be in MN for the next game!! Woo! It’s always good to go up North for a shock of uber-cold weather.
RogueGopher says:
December 14th, 2008 at 9:24 pm
The Wild’s losing streak has at least as much with the complete lack of scoring. This team was always undermanned on offense. Our defense has suffered and yes that is in part due to the loss of Burns on D. But the idea that Johnsson is our problem is ignorant. Johnsson’s ATOI is especially significant when paired with the team gaa and save % over the last 2 1/2 years. To suggest that Johnsson has nothing to do with that is simply not true.
It’s not ignorant, it’s the truth, and you fail to get that. Johnsson is definitely part of the problem, not part of the solution.
Yay for the extra cold weather! It was something like 70 degrees here today.
Yeah RG, I don’t like it either.
I am worried about the Calgary game to be honest. I hope they work out their problems before then.
Hockey is my favorite sport to watch. Gopher and even high school hockey is great to watch in person. Can only afford a few Wild games but truthfully I would rather go to a few more Gopher games than a single Wild game. This is not because I hate the Wild, but I too am finding it more frustrating to watch…all trolling aside.
Basically–we stink.
sunshine says:
December 14th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
Zids doesn’t go up against top lines like Johnsson.
ES TOI: Johnsson 19 minutes vs. 17 minutes.
PK TOI: Johnsson - 3:45 minutes vs. Zids 1:50.
The only TOI that Zids leads Johnsson is on the PP because Lemaire has Johnsson playing big minutes on ES and PK.
that’s not true. Johnsson doesn’t play on the PP because he can’t shoot worth a damn. However, he’s being paid big money to be an offensive defenseman. Problem is, he provides no offense and he’s terrible defensively.
I think Johnsson has one goal this year?
Now I know why Risebrough was a no show on WCCO radio this morning.
Dan, he was signed to be an offensive d-man and did not come through in that role. However, he has remade himself to still be an effective part of the team. The team has been a consistently top 5 defensive team the last 2 1/2 years. That’s the truth.
Nice RSux. I was never into College Hockey (I grew up mainly in FLA *shrugs*) so I am al about the NHL. but it has just been a tough time to watch Wild hockey. Oh well…. Things will get better at some point. I am out for the evening. Cheers everyone!
P.S. RSux, you are not as much of a troll as i initially thought. Your name is very trollish, but you are somewhat reasonable so that helps.
RogueGopher says:
December 14th, 2008 at 9:32 pm
Dan, he was signed to be an offensive d-man and did not come through in that role. However, he has remade himself to still be an effective part of the team. The team has been a consistently top 5 defensive team the last 2 1/2 years. That’s the truth.
It’s becuase of the system and the goalie, it has little to do with Johnsson’s play.
Night Austin.
Whatever Dan. Good night people I like.
Hate to say it, but I honestly believe the problem with the team is personnel…and this lies with Risebrough. We need scoring in the worst way and he failed to address that need during the offseason. The goal slump comes as no real surprise. Here is to hoping our young players can improve 2 or 3 fold over the remainder of the season.
RogueGopher says:
December 14th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
Whatever Dan. Good night people I like.
typical female response, especially when it’s directed at someone they know is right.
Dan, how do you know RG is a female?
Good night everyone, including Dan. Sweet dreams.
WildinATX says:
December 14th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Dan, how do you know RG is a female?
Good night everyone, including Dan. Sweet dreams.
I don’t, but it’s an educated guess.
I’d just call it a plain old guess (which I think is wrong, based on previous posts). But whatever. Sleep well Dan.
You sleep well too.
My assertion about trading Johnsson was more about the fact that he’s a piece that could be moved next year anyway (see Russo’s recent article) and probably has the greatest value around the league of Wild pieces that could be moved (not including the enigmatic Gaborik situation).
Therefore, trading Johnsson could net the Wild the best return.
Other points:
- The Wild touted Johnsson as an offensive D when they signed him. He moves the puck great but is not anything of a scoring D-man. And this team needs offense desperately.
- Johnsson is a good D-man. Burns & Schultz are stronger defensively, and Burns is also strong offensively.
- For what Johnsson is and what he gives, he’s hardly worth nearly $5M annually. For what the Wild needs, that dough would be better spent improving their offense.
Russo-
In case you can’t access KARE11.com in California…
The snow is over for the most part. Metro got little or nothing, saying less than an inch by morning. Problem now is the wind, they are saying it is going to rev up overnight.
Nothing too big. Plane ride should be fine.
See you for breakfast all.
where are all the MAB haters tonight? I guess that spot is taken by kimmy since he made one mistake that resulted in a goal?
I won’t speak for anyone but there is no MAB hater or any - (insert player name)-hater tonight because I am indifferent to the team right now.
Tomorrow, I will care about them again. Just not right now.
Does DR script the Fox telecasts?
I loved their going for the ’silver lining’ angle.
There’s nothing good about a 5 game losing streak.
Everyone on the D corps needs to go. The only players worth keeping on D are Burns and Reitz. Im so F****** sick of Johnssons dumba** turnovers. Schultz has sucked this year too. Skoula, Zids, MAB…get these guys outta here. Gaborik is leaving, koivu will leave and the wild are going to be the the worst team in the nhl for awhile. Bruno is too old, he cant compete with young stronger guys. This team SUCKS. Ive given up on this season already. These guys show no desperation, a disgrace to the team of 18000. The sellouts will stop because this team is garbage and we might as well tank the rest of the season liker were doing so we can get first pick in the draft…..wild suck
Johnsson at 4.85 million a season could be the worst signing in the history of the nhl.
I still hate MAB. He should be shafted into a 3 minute a night 4th line spot and just pulled out the man the PP point, it’s all he’s good for. Burns back to D, Reitz still in the lineup, and MAB can still do the only thing he does well.
And I think Avery wins any worst contract arguments.
I was just going to announce my return from my self-imposed suspension from overly drunk posting. I was on cold meds and decided I could still do the happy hour thing. I over-reacted for a quick spurt there in Russoville. I don’t think I said anything too bad but it was bad form and I felt shame and went to the cooler for a while.
But with all the doom and trolling going on today, it isn’t a good time to make my Ali-like return to the ring. So I’ll wait until the time is right.
I will say one thing though, I see all the soothsayers who said the Wild would suck this year have come back out of the wood work. I’m sorry that they had to wait so long. And I’m impressed at their patience. Don’t get me wrong, this is a chitty span, but I feel it’s more of a rough patch combined with bad puck luck. The ship will be turned around and all those soothsayers will go away and wait for the next rough patch. Maybe some of them hopped on the Wild after the Vikes righted the ship. Who knows?
I can atleast compliment Dan for being a doom spreader throughout. He isn’t a troll, just genuinely gloomy and negative. And that is fine.
This is concerning, but like I said, I don’t think it’s time to call time of death on this Wild season.
Dan says:
>>It was an educated guess<<
Apparently Dan has taken to outsourcing his guesses and opinions
I can atleast compliment Dan for being a doom spreader throughout. He isn’t a troll, just genuinely gloomy and negative. And that is fine.
This is concerning, but like I said, I don’t think it’s time to call time of death on this Wild season.
Dan and some others are over the top in their logic and rhetoric but this losing/low scoring strike means they were probably “right” about the Wild this season in the big picture as it is going to take alot of big wins to cancel out many of the Ls in recent weeks. Not sure how fun that is but whatever. For the rest of us, things are likely to get interesting off the ice in the coming weeks as Doug Smugsborough is going to be put to the test. Talking to ATL (see above) has a ray of hope in it for most of Russoville.
There is alot of season left, and I’m not prepared to say anybody was or is “probably right”. We are what? A third of the way in? They play 82 games for a reason.
Something could be cooking between the Wild and Atlanta by the way
Could my Gabby (and some) for Kovie dream be true!?
I live by the theory that nothing is ever as bad or as good as it seems to be. And it can all change at a moments notice. After spending time in Russoville, I can feel safe when I say I find myself in the minority. It is what it is.
- DD, hope you are right but the schedule looks tough.
- Couple the DR chat with ATL with Russo’s report that “Backstrom contract talks appear to be nonexistent” ? - http://www.startribune.com/sports/wild/36145979.html?page=2&c=y
Right. Waddell who went through the Hossa situation wants to trade for Gaborik so he could go through it all over because he missed so much? Yeah, right.
Looks more like a defensemen or 3rd -4th line move or specifically anyone with less than 2 years on their contract. Unless he backs out of his word and moves PMB for someone.
Right. Waddell who went through the Hossa situation wants to trade for Gaborik so he could go through it all over because he missed so much?
I agree that Gaby and ATL would have to strike a deal before the trade. Would Waddell want out of the Ron Hainsey contract too? I can’t say I know much about him but I think I recall that most thought he was significantly overpaid on July 1.
Gaborik isn’t going to want to play for Atlanta and Wadell. That just isn’t going to happen. Just as Demitra and Gaborik have soured Hossa on the Wild, Hossa has soured Gaborik on the Thrashers.
We don’t want the Hainsey contract either. We would want an offensive player back or should I say, we should ask for a forward back not another defensemen.
DR has to save money to give Koivu and Burns big raises.
Today was a bad loss after a few other bad losses. But, the ship will right itself.
I do not blame the teams dive on Yohnsson being the captain, but it does seem like his individual play has suffered a little with the responsibility.
I can’t believe I didn’t consider the Hossa influnce angle on this but who knows how Gaborik would weigh a generous long term contract offer right now. Since the Wild needs an offensive player and all they have of significant interest is Kovalchuk or Kozlov, it is possible that a better d-man with a better contract could be swapped for a lesser player with a bad contract. Plus, I am sure MuN has some three way trades for us to consider
Michael: If you don’t get on NWA, our Sun Country flight is one hour late over here at LAX, Terminal 6. My wife and I have the ‘Russo seats’ on the Sun Country flight…
Much better effort tonight. Good to see all the Wild fans at the Honda Center.
But - can anyone explain why DR is not talking to Backstrom about a contract? And why is he so testy when Russo asks him about it?
Watching Harding play tonight should highlight why resigning Backs is important. He wasn’t terrible, but he’s not at Backstrom’s level.
its not impossible, but its a long shot to get kovie. But think of Butch setting up Kovie left and right, that would be fun to watch. Ive heard he doesnt play much defense so i dont think the wild want him.
Haven’t you heard, socal? DR sux! Or at least that’s the rumor.
WATX, fer realz? Looked like all my FF boys were stinking it up this weekend. I guess I’ll see tomorrow unless KiPA is still up and can confirm it for me.
Buddha, it was friggin’ awesome. A dream come true. I’ll blog it.
I’m home, and north of the cities it’s a full-on white-out! Snow is coming down in what I am going to call “curtains”. 25 mph wind, and it’s -20C out. The rural roads are almost impossible to see in some places. And I have to drive to Edina tomorrow. Ugh on 2 counts now.
A few shoutouts in reply to what I’ve read above:
SotB: And I think Avery wins any worst contract arguments.
+1 man, for sure. But… What about.. Jeff Finger? lolol!
Dickie: Kudos for pointing out what most have forgotten in their ever narrowing vision during this slump. Folks, 82 games. It’s not like we’re 16 points back. We just dropped back into the pack again. Think of it this way, if they can drop 5, they can win 5. Sometimes you have to really hit rock bottom before you can pull yourselves up. Or was that AA? I dunno.
Intobivion: Yes. I speculated on Kovalchuck about 10 days ago, when it because apparent he was willing to move him. With that in mind, I do not think that was the topic of discussion during their talks. I firmly believe Waddell is going to wait until the last possible minute to trade Ilya, to maximize his return for him. My speculation is on Brian Little and/or Jason Williams. What do I think Waddell is asking for? Not Gaborik. They don’t need him, and I’m sure Waddell doesn’t want him. What he needs is a D to step into the role of Schneider, who’s gone down again this year with injury. He’s missed 11 games now, but when he does play he averages 21+ minutes and plays both the PP and PK. Johnsson? That’s a good bet. Little is fast, and talented, but young. Only 20. Same age as…. yeah. But with 22 points, he’s the bait. Williams could be there too, he had 58 pts one year in Detroit, but he was then relegated to the 3rd and 4th line because they were overstocked with talent, and eventually dealt to Chicago. Williams is the kind of guy you want forechecking, and scrapping for pucks in the corners and along the boards - exactly where we get worked over.
Don’t count out Ilya though, but I doubt it - he’s worth far more than Gaborik is on the market, and he’s got another year under his current contract. Waddell is in no hurry to trade him, although I’m sure Dan will contradict me because in his world with the orange-colored sky, he’s always right.
And tonight’s game.. The 1st 6 minutes were just like the last 4 games. Slow, flat-footed, and effortless. Although after the Ducks 2nd goal, there was a jump in their step, and you could see some fire starting. Then a goal! And Reitz dropping the gloves again, along with some pretty solid D, with one exception. In fact, the rest of the game was played fairly well, with 2 exceptions. Unfortunately, both resulted in goals.
What I saw past the 7 minute mark in the 1st was better than anything I had witnessed in the past 4 games. There was energy, and we were willing some battles. Unfortunately, it seemed the whole team was playing without the benefit of contact lenses, as a couple bad errors and missed opportunities turned this game. Yeah, Johnsson made a bad play. He telegraphed it so well, and for whatever reason he makes that outlet 99 times out of 100, but today it got picked. Boogaard doesn’t get all of it with JSG down, and the puck flutters into the goaltender. Sheppard tries a bad-angle shot instead of corralling it to the backhand. Someone hit a post, don’t recall who. We get any of those, and Kimmy doesn’t make a bad pass, and it’s a completely different game. I was happier with the effort, and the results. 2 goals in one game. Now let’s work on not making some costly mistakes, and converting on these chances and we’re winning games instead of losing them.
Remember, this is the same team you all were raving about after the 5-1 start.
Lol thanks 6GS, I’ll list ‘em if I think they’re plausible!!
As for Backs not having a contract, and DR’s reaction - it’s quite simple:
Until he knows what he’s dealing with for a roster and available space for the next few years, he can’t make an offer to Backstrom. Once the Gaborik issue is settled, I’m sure he’ll jump into action, but that tells you something - if DR is skittish about talking about why he’s not offered one, or talked about one - it’s because he’s protecting his hand at the moment.
If he offers Backs a huge deal, he might be short cash later on to sign someone later, or short cash 2-3 years from now. I’d be doing the same thing.
we trade johnsson to florida for center Nathan Horten….problem solved
he averages 62 points the last two seasons, and hes a big physical guy..think what he could do on a better team than florida
and his wife is ridculously hott
Horton’s injured, and signed for years - and has a fractured ankle.
And he’s been playing wing.
And his point production was playing on a line and PP with Jokinen. He hasn’t done much this year with Olli gone.
But it’s a good idea. I like the guy, good, young power forward with lots of potential, but he’s also expensive, and if he can’t put in 60-70 points a year, is he worth the 5m hit?
I should have a blog… but that would be just way too dangerous.
So I’ll go to bed instead. Nite kids.
[…] Russo’s Rants – […]
I’m reading cap hit of 4 mil
yeah 4 mil but they want to get rid of them because of that cap hit so they wont take johnsson whos like 5 mil per, maybe one of our young guys or something. This guy plays all 82 games when he didnt have this bad injury and hes big, we need tough guys who can score.
snd hes a center…we badly need a center ha
i dont think we want anything from the thrashers
AS our wild are already the the most hated team in the nhl (a team that plays good defense….oh my god!!!!!)
I say lets go all out!
sign up avery, and trade for bertuzzi, then we can put out the gabby, bertuzzi, avery line complete with the prerequisite handlebar mustaches.
Even we would hate that line….and that isn’t a bad hockey line either…..as much as everyone would dispise it.
(side note: Skoula would have to be on the ice with them, with a mini handlebar mustache as well!)
unless we’re getting Lehtonen and/or Kovalchuk, there is nobody worth a damn on Atlanta.
Burns at D: 9-4-1
Burns at W: 6-9
Michael up North says:
December 15th, 2008 at 1:08 am
Intobivion: Yes. I speculated on Kovalchuck about 10 days ago, when it because apparent he was willing to move him. With that in mind, I do not think that was the topic of discussion during their talks. I firmly believe Waddell is going to wait until the last possible minute to trade Ilya, to maximize his return for him. My speculation is on Brian Little and/or Jason Williams. What do I think Waddell is asking for? Little is fast, and talented, but young. Only 20. Same age as…. yeah. But with 22 points, he’s the bait.
Don’t count out Ilya though, but I doubt it - he’s worth far more than Gaborik is on the market, and he’s got another year under his current contract. Waddell is in no hurry to trade him, although I’m sure Dan will contradict me because in his world with the orange-colored sky, he’s always right.
only thing I don’t agree with is Little. It’s very possible that’s the guy Doug is targeting, but the Wild don’t need him. Little is scoring because he’s with Kovalchuk, just like Bouchard was actually quasi decent when he was with Rolston. Almost anybody can look good when they get to ride the coat tails of a star. Jason Williams wouldn’t be a good fit because he is like every other Wild guy. He doesn’t score enough goals to make an impact.
Lousy weekend all around. Two losses by the guys. And some punk broke into the vehicle- made a mess, and got a few quarters. Well at least I wasn’t in the vehicle when it happened. Today is another day. Welcome back to the cold, Michael. When are you going to do a Reader’s mailbag?
Has anyone else noticed that the Wild has only won the 1 game since Mikko Koivu has not been the captain?! Any kind of coincidence??
I have, though the boys poo-poo that notion. 
After sleeping on it, I decided that there still isn’t anything positive about losing 5 in a row.
They need to shake things up.
A trade with Atlanta (don’t think it will be Kovalchuk) may get the underachievers to wake up.
They had a bit more life in yesterday’s game, but that life only occurred after they were down 2-zip.
What a waste of a roster spot Gilies is. It is seriously a joke that he is on our team and we let Parrish and Demitra go. This kid couldnt even play at the college level. Boogaard has a better chance of scoring then Gillies. Get him off the roster.
PS. Good job trading away O’sullivan for PD who isnt even on the team anymore. Glad we got the shaft on that deal. FBOMB!
Awww, come on. He’s just a kid. Don’t blame the bad decisions of his GM and coach on him.
Ok, well I didn’t go to bed right away last night. I watched the replay of NHL On The Fly. Murphy and Errey were going on about how even though your key guys might not be producing, if your role players - “grinders, bumpers, diggers” as Errey putt it - don’t play their game too, it’ll drag the whole team down.
Who were they talking about? Oh yeah, the Pens - who are on a skid of their own going 2-5-1 in their last 8.
No, I don’t think it has anything to do with Koivu not being captain, sorry Ms C.. Just coincidence.
No, I don’t think it has anything to do with Burns playing wing. I could show their record is better when eating chicken parm instead of linguini as a pregame team meal. Nothing is static, you make roster moves, changes, lines, ice times. Does it change the makeup of the team, yeah. But take away the 1st 10 games of the year and that stat evens out. Sorry Dan.
And KJ… there isn’t anything positive about it. The positive might occur as a result of it though. Let’s see what happens this week at practice.
Dan-
Little isn’t scoring because he is with Kovalchuk. Kovalchuk has been slumping and has lately been playing third line minutes for the Thrashers. So far, Little has been playing with Kozlov and White on his line. Hardly All-Star caliber players. Maybe Little has some talent, eh? For the record, Kovalchuk’s linemates are Jason Williams and Chris Thorburn.
Maybe we get White back.
Yeah yeah. He’ll get the C back and they’ll start winning and you all will be kissing my feet and telling me I know more than Dan.
What’s with the Atlanta trade talk? Sorry, I couldn’t bring myself to suffer through the angst earlier in the thread.
ms.c…
Apparently DR and Waddell were kibitzing about in So Cal.
It could be coincidence.
However, if Atl is considering obtaining Kimmy J, I am sure his wonderful cross-ice pass from deep in his zone did little to enhance his value.
Oh, I guess I kinda tuned the end of Russo’s blog out when I was reading it last night in my post-hockey sleepy haze. I see it now, thanks.
so…did we enjoy the trip down the rabbit hole yesterday, Russoville?
You guys are setting yourselves up to get your hearts ripped out of your chest if you think we’re getting Kovalchuk. Waddle is most likely in “Save my Job Mode” and he will probably try showing Kovy that he is willing to bring in top line players. I can’t see Risebrough trading for Kovy but Waddle is a bit crazy like Garth Snow and could put together a tempting package of 1st rounders.
How is the world still here this morning?
IMO with the exceptions of Koivu, Burns, and Backstrom, all trades should be considered. New owner in place (perhaps wanting to make a splash) it is time to consider all offers. My favorite hockey team has become unwatchable!
The world is ending since we have lost 5 in a row. I think its time to move the franchise to Oklahoma City, and wait 5 years to bring another expansion team in.
Very frustrating. I have never been one to jump on the dump DR bandwagon as frankly we have done pretty well in the 7 years we have been in existence. But now the rubber hits the road. If DR does not sign Backs he should be fired. He has fooled around on that too long.
When compared to Columbus I would have to agree that we have done very well. Consider how many coaches, GM’s, and such Columbus has gone through, and I appreciate our stable coaching staff and leadership all the more. But, in my opinion we cannot go through another year of “we have a plan, we are not going to give up our core guys.” This mentality is no longer working, it is time to start focusing on the now rather than the future. In fact IMO they should have taken this approach last year with some of the veteran player that we had to build upon then.
Open question: would you rather have Backstrom and Johnsson on this team or Little and Kozlov with a duo of Harding and Lehtonen in nets?
Has there been any mention of whats going on with nolan?
Has there been any mention of whats going on with nolan?
Lower body injury - what else do you need to know?
Leipold doesn’t strike me as an owner that likes to shake things up. I wouldn’t mind a front office change but look at Nashville, same GM and Coach since joining the league in 98′. It’s not his style. On the subject of changing our GM - why do people get so worked up over the idea of new management? Do you fear change that badly? It’s true that we haven’t been a cellar dweller since joining the league but I credit almost all of our success to Jacques Lemaire and his system. Without it I don’t think Risebrough would have lasted this long.
Ahh ya, got that much. I was thinking more on the lines of can he walk? is he gonna practice? is he day to day? week to week? will he play against his former team? will he sit on iginla? has he gotten his christmas shopping done? stuff like that…
Will he sit on Iginla… Heh.
“i dont think we want anything from the thrashers”
Except 1st round picks early in the round, Kovalchuk, Little, White… not that I am going to buy in that they will get Kovalchuk, but he is there, and he has to be on the wanted list.
“Open question: would you rather have Backstrom and Johnsson on this team or Little and Kozlov with a duo of Harding and Lehtonen in nets?”
Backs and anyone you want.
“so…did we enjoy the trip down the rabbit hole yesterday, Russoville?”
I was mentally prepared for it, so while it wasn’t enjoyable, it wasn’t heart breaking either.
But hey… we got one of those moral victories that are so valuable in the standings, right?
What’s the over/under on how many Iggy “pops” in on Wed? I will be at the game in row 5 so I am excited… but not expecting a win.
Atlanta has more than enough room to absorb Gaborik’s cap hit whole without having to lose anyone. I think that rules out Kovalchuk coming back here.
I am still intrigued by the idea of Lehtonen learning under his countryman for a couple years (of course, that would mean we’d have to TALK TO BACKSTROM FIRST). But this seems like it would be a package of high picks as the meat of the return, IF we’re talking about Gaborik.
What upsetting me is how we haven’t even talked with Backstrom yet. Hopefully Dougie R learned his lesson with Rolston….but anyways. I have a blog on Russo’s BlogRoll, so check it out people if ya want. Its the Hockey Rube. Have a good one.
TheGun, I’m going Iginla with no points until it really counts - say 5 minutes left in the third to break a tie.
Yeah, it is disturbing that DR hasn’t even called Backstrom’s agent to even mention that he’s interested in talking about a contract.
“IF we’re talking about Gaborik”
Wow… wouldn’t that be a real crapper. Come home and see Russo’s Rants in the ol’ Google Reader… “Wild make trade with Thrashers” only to pull it up and see they traded Reitz for whoever on their squad is the equivalent of Reitz… (see how much I care about their team?)
Goody - I was thinking the same, but more realistic:
With Calgary down 3-1 with 5 minutes left in the 3rd, Iggy rattles two in (the second with the extra attacker), and pounds in the hat trick goal in Overtime for the win.
Buddha: I had a thought that, since the Thrashers are most-stocked at defense - which we’re pretty well-stocked at on our own right now, maybe the deal with them would be one to set up a Gaborik deal….I don’t know and I feel sort of dirty even speculating on it (don’t want to be painted with the same brush as Eklund).
Iginla no points until it really matters…
Like 1:30 into the game. With the boys playing like they are, I’d see Iggy with the hatty, and two assits. Could be really brutal.
re: Iginla, any way you slice it, his points against us will hurt us bad.
If you tell me he’s going to score one goal, and it will be in the first period, I’m thinking we’re going to get shut out.
If you tell he he’s going to finish with no points, I’m thinking he’s going to win it in the shootout. Or that he’s going to fight Burns and break his orbital bone and put him out for the rest of the season or something like that.
The man just kills us.
But Buddha, you KNOW that’s totally what will happen. DR is the master of the “OMG! A trade! Who? For WHO? How you say that? Where’s he from? And we gave them WHAT?” trade.
I don’t know what the guys were moral victory the boys were talking about. I didn’t see it last night. That was just a loss.
Why would Atlanta want to trade their #1 pick for Gaborik when he is going to leave at the end of the season? If Waddell is stupid, he would do it.
Or that he’s going to fight Burns and break his orbital bone and put him out for the rest of the season or something like that.
Kinda graphic there NiNY…
Why would Atlanta want to trade their #1 pick for Gaborik when he is going to leave at the end of the season?
Because Atl has the money to offer Gabby 9 mil a year and have both him and Kovulchuck on the same line next year before Kovie becomes a UFA in 2010. Don’t overlook the fact that Gaborik is a “numbers” guy. As in - he wants to see them, not produce them.
mabey riser is going to trade one of our players for waddells advise on what not to do with slovakian hockey stars in a contract/trade situation…pouliot goes mabey?
anyone know of a place where they list who currently “owns” what draft picks (for, say, the 09 entry draft)??
… and you know its bad when EKLUND calls you out…
Again, I cant stress enough the difference between Gaborik and Kovalchuk. Kovalchuk wants to stay where he is and is proud to be a Thrasher.
Thinking about Kovalchuck…
He’s UFA after next season. I’d imagine Waddell of all the GM’s would be very quick to move a UFA with no interest in signing before their last season.
There is also this possibility:
DR: Hey Don. Want to come out to Cali this weekend for some hockey games? I’m buyin.
DW: Sure. What for?
DR: I need to make sure I don’t lose my a$$ on this Gaby thing. All you have to do is show up and look like we are having a serious conversation. Then all I have to do is sit back and wait for the lucrative offers to come in…
Teams that can absorb Gaborik’s contract “as is” without moving anyone from their current roster:
Carolina
Tampa
Buffalo
Columbus
Vancouver
NY Islanders
Toronto
Atlanta
Phoenix
Nashville
LA
(Gaborik’s pro-rated cap hit = $3.9M based on $6.33M cap hit x 62% of 186 day season remaining. Cap space data from nhlnumbers.com.)
FWIW: Ottawa would only have to shed ~$500k in cap space to fit him in right now.
So does anyone believe Gaborik will actually play on Wednesday? Yes, the team could use the boost (mentally if nothing more), but against Calgary??? Looking at the schedule after Wednesday - NYI, STL, CAR, CHI spread over 10 days.
I say he sits out against Calgary (arguably a L even with him) to avoid playing him against Calgary’s ‘toughness’. Then he’ll debut against the Islanders and have a few ‘easy’ opponents leading back to Calgary on the 29th and SJ on the 31st.
Let’s see if I understand this correctly. Early in the season while we hade certain players over-achieving, the feedback by the fans was we didn’t need Gaborik. Now that this team has settled into what they really are (a .500 team at best), everyone can’t wait for Gaborik to get back and give them the spark they are missing…. Pathetic, considering that there is no way Gaborik will be with this team by the end of this season. False hopes for fans that truely do not understand this is a seriously flawed team.
Well that’s one way to make some new friends, Steve.
I must have missed Steve’s similar declarations during the good weeks.
Russo left us some oyster crackers above. Don’t break your finger hitting F5 though, it’s just a pre-emptive update.
You’re on it today, Nick.
If Gaborik can last the Calgary toughness, he is ready to play full-time. Best way to get into game shape — avoiding and absorbing big hits.
Since he has been only practicing with the fourth line, don’t expect him to be a scoring machine with Boogaard as a linemate.
Having Boogaard as linemate, he’ll feel protected though. I say, he will play on Wednesday. He’s practiced everyday since he came back with and without the team but with at least one coach instead of trainers.
He was skated hard in Phoenix and survived so his groin muscles are holding up so far.
If you trade for Gaborik right now you’re trading for his potential to score some goals for you.
You don’t need to see him light the lamp in his next few games so much as you just need to see that he can skate and is still pretty fast.
Any goals he scores is just gravy to a GM.
Steve, I’ll attempt to explain. While most were happy with how things were going without Gaborik, they’d be happy to have the added punch.
It’d be kind of like if you have $300 in your right pocket. You’d be happy with that, but if you found another $20 in your left pocket you’re not going to throw it on the ground.
Steve is somewhat correct. Three weeks ago it was Gaborik who? Now its, we need Gaborik.
Nope. I’m still “Gaby who.” Or really more around what Goody is saying. Fine if he’s back. We can use the help, but he needs to go ASAP if we can get a return that will jump start this team.
Steve is somewhat correct. Three weeks ago it was Gaborik who? Now its, we need Gaborik.
We’re on a five-game skid.
We could use Ladislav Benysek right about now.
I don’t see why it’s such a big deal to be hoping that your star player comes back sooner - even, as in my own case, if it’s to expedite the resolution of his contract drama.
I would also like to clarify that I can’t wait for Gaby to come back - only so we can trade him for some (hopefully) scorers.
Where was Steve’s post to that effect four weeks ago? I think the prevailing sentiment on Gaby is still about trading him although some see his value higher now because of the profound lack of goal scoring.
I don’t want Gaborik back. I want whatever the trade is going to be to be done, and get those players in place (if they can even get players at this point) so they can figure out how to score and move on.
Same as always…
I just cannot believe for a second the guys already on the team can’t score. They just don’t ever freaking shoot. Still always looking for that extra pass.
When was the last time we saw a pretty goal from the Wild? The tick-tack passing, the break away with the seet move to beat the goalie? Not their style, but they seem to not be able to admit that. This is a garbage goal tema, but they won’t play physical enough to get the garbage goal.
DR is going to trade Backstrom at the deadline this year. that is why he hasn’t signed him long term
Buddha, I wonder how much of that has to do with the coaching. I understand JL’s stance about not getting out of position to go for the hit, but sometimes you can deliver the hit AND be in position.
With the tick-tack passing, breakaways, etc. often the chance to do some of that is set up by physical play. A well timed check can cause a turnover to spring a breakaway. Mixing it up in front of the net distracts the D and allows your team to pass more freely.
I think a lot of the Wild players are so afraid of JL’s doghouse that they won’t take a chance even when the risk isn’t very big.
Food…
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Up there.
Click on “Monday update”…
Michael up North says:
December 15th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Ok, well I didn’t go to bed right away last night. I watched the replay of NHL On The Fly. Murphy and Errey were going on about how even though your key guys might not be producing, if your role players - “grinders, bumpers, diggers” as Errey putt it - don’t play their game too, it’ll drag the whole team down.
Who were they talking about? Oh yeah, the Pens - who are on a skid of their own going 2-5-1 in their last 8.
No, I don’t think it has anything to do with Koivu not being captain, sorry Ms C.. Just coincidence.
No, I don’t think it has anything to do with Burns playing wing. I could show their record is better when eating chicken parm instead of linguini as a pregame team meal. Nothing is static, you make roster moves, changes, lines, ice times. Does it change the makeup of the team, yeah. But take away the 1st 10 games of the year and that stat evens out. Sorry Dan
1. My Burns stat is totally legit. when you move one of the best defensemen in the game from that position, you are weakening your defense corp significantly. To go from 5 games over .500 to 3 games under because of that move is very telling.
2. The Pens aren’t winning because their backup sucks. If Fluery had been in net for all those games, undoubtedly they have a better record.
Chris says:
December 15th, 2008 at 8:59 am
Dan-
Little isn’t scoring because he is with Kovalchuk. Kovalchuk has been slumping and has lately been playing third line minutes for the Thrashers. So far, Little has been playing with Kozlov and White on his line. Hardly All-Star caliber players. Maybe Little has some talent, eh? For the record, Kovalchuk’s linemates are Jason Williams and Chris Thorburn.
As of today. They weren’t his linemates previously. Also, Slava has a dozen goals. I’d love to have Slava here. That guy could be an All-Star if he was in the right situation. He has the talent. Always been a fan.
Six Goalie System says:
December 15th, 2008 at 10:41 am
Open question: would you rather have Backstrom and Johnsson on this team or Little and Kozlov with a duo of Harding and Lehtonen in nets?
I’ll take Kozlov, Little, and Lehtonen every day.
And Bryan Little has 11 goals, yet you would love to have Kozlov but not Little? Kozlov has 13 goals and 11 assists, and is 36 years old. Little has 11 goals and 11 assists and is 21 years. I think I’d take the 21 year old with 2 less points.
And by the way, Kovalchuck has only two assists on Little’s goals for the season. So, I wouldn’t say he scores because he has played with Kovalchuk.
