Wild 4, New York Islanders 1; Bergeron injured
Posted on December 19th, 2008 – 6:31 PMBy Michael Russo
In the name of John Sterling, “Wild wins! Theeeeee Wild wins!!!!!!!!!!!”
That’s something you can’t say everyday, so you might as well scream it, eh?
Here’s something else you can’t say everyday. Colton Gillies scored a goal tonight with assists from Derek Boogaard and Krys Kolanos. I’m going to go out on a limb: That battery will never occur again.
What a cool storyline tonight. Not only does the Wild finally get off the schneid, but Gillies, the 19-year-old rookie who had never scored an NHL goal, gets the game-winner against the team in which his distant great uncle, Clark Gillies, starred for.
Gillies was one of my favorite players ever growing up an Islanders fan. The guy was a punishing power forward. Physical and scored. In fact, before I even asked Colton Gillies a question at the draft in Columbus two years ago, I told him that. However, Colton Gillies has never met Clark, but recently, a reporter gave Colton Clark’s business card because Clark’s apparently been following his career and wants to go to dinner with him when the Wild goes to New York in March.
Colton Gillies was on top of the world. He drove the net and the puck just made its way over Joey MacDonald’s paddle early in the third to trigger a three-goal period.
Amazingly, who led the rush but that noted speedster, playmaker and stick-handler, Derek Boogaard. It was Boogey’s first shift since the first period. He said that will be his new role — skate the puck in, dish off and go to the net.
Gillies’ goal gave the Wild its first lead since Dec. 3, a span of 408 minutes, 16 seconds (you heard me).
It’s hard to dominate a game the way the Wild dominated this one, yet with a minute left in the second, the Wild trailed 1-0. The fans were restless as MacDonald stone-cold robbed Wild players continually. Antti Miettinen and Andrew Brunette hit pipes, and the fans were getting frustrated until Stephane Veilleux scored. It was Veilleux’s first point since Nov. 22.
Funny story, but this morning, Veilleux and I were chatting and he asked me what the Timberwolves’ losing streak was up to. I said 11, and he was relieved because the Wild had some breathing room.
The Wild’s win tonight snapped a six-game losing streak (first win since Dec. 3) as it moved back into seventh in the West heading into tomorrow’s game in St. Louis.
The Wild outshot the Blues 39-16 (season-highs in shots for and against). The differential of 23 tied a franchise record.
Mikko Koivu and Pierre-Marc Bouchard also scored.
The Wild gave up the first goal for the seventh straight game. It hasn’t scored in the first period in seven of the past eight games. It’s 8-1-1 against the East, 8-12-1 against the West.
The Islanders lost former Wild defenseman Andy Sutton in the first period with a broken foot. The Wild lost defenseman Marc-Andre Bergeron with a “lower body” injury. I didn’t see it happen or know what happened. His last shift came with 7:10 left in the game, and quite frankly, I thought he was benched because he wasn’t stellar tonight.
Erik Reitz will play for him tomorrow in St. Louis. Eric Belanger (ill) also didn’t make the trip to St. Louis.
I, however, will make the trip to St. Louis. I won’t be there in time for the Wild’s optional skate tomorrow, so I will talk to you before the game.
Obviously, the roster freeze will come and go without a Wild trade. Doug Risebrough gave me the old “nothing I can tell you” when I asked what’s going on, but I know for a fact that he was working something all day today. But at least before the deadline, it didn’t happen. We’ll see if there’s a framework in place for when the freeze ends Dec. 27.
Also, if the Wild put in a waiver claim for Jussi Jokinen (which would make sense considering its need for center), that can happen tomorrow. But there are a lot of teams that have first dibs over the Wild.
Saturday note: Jokinen cleared waivers, meaning none of the 29 teams put in a claim.
303 Responses to "Wild 4, New York Islanders 1; Bergeron injured"
Put the Wild on your shoulders tonight Gaby, and lead us to a win.
Pleaseleave him with Mikko. Go Wild.
Wooo.
So I’m guessing this game is in No Definition tonight, huh? Yep.
what does gabby expect about being sore? he’s barely skated leading up to last game and he hasn’t played since oct. of course he’s going to be sore. what a wuss.
Oh and it’s the Isles feed on top of that. Super. Oh well. At least the contrast between that and the Aeros game online won’t be so significant.
ms.c. I don’t have tv. As I mentioned before, I have been in Virginia Beach for the last 3 months before heading for Conroe, TX in January.
I want to see Gaby do one of those “I came back” commercials like Braydon Coburn. 
I had some lower body “discomfort.”
But I came back.
Slow in Russoville tonight. Don’t people realize there’s a game with the Islanders about to start?
Gabby the gamer, way to suck it up and play through the discomfort.
Well, we all have our priorities, Theo.
I love Coburn in those commercials.
a game with the Islanders
I think this might be part of the problem, toivo. If I wasn’t snowed in right now I might be doing something else. Counting cotton balls, clipping the dogs’ nails, alchemy…
Put Clutter/koivu/Gabby together JL
Can anyone post the point totals from all the players up to this point from last years team?
Let’s go Gaby
Which Gopher lead the LPH?
*sNICKer*
Um, what the hell was that chanting or whatever?
Nickle Defense needs to wake the hell up.
that was the Univ. of Minnesota “spell the state” chant they do. ms.c That’s why I asked which Gopher lead the LPH.
There is SRV working in both offensive corners two minutes into the game. Who was it earlier saying he never does that?
Russo, didn’t you say Gaborik was with Clutterbuck and Koivu?
He’s playing with terrible Veilleux again. blah.
They seem to do that Minnesota chant all the time. I can’t say I’m on board with that. Not all Wild fans are Gopher fans.
I see, Nick.
Wow, did you see KK playing D there?
sv/js/mg on the same line. Wow. You haven’t read my thread JL>
Bruno wheels and Aaron, that would be me. (need more that a shift)
Ah, there y’all are.
You came back.
okay, I’ll say it: there’s no excuse not to win this game tonight. The Wild is the better team. A good team wins this game, in any event.
Dear Nick Schultz, when you’re wide open along the boards, shoot the damn puck!!
greetings from the X bitches! special thx to 6gs for the tix tonight! see you all after the game!l
Bring us a W, Austin!
Oh little Gillies…
I agree Nick, but what team will show up tonight. The Wild team that gives goosebumps when they play good or the Wild team that couldn’t beat the Aeros. Go Wild.
That’s two games in a row for Austin. Any “discomfort?”
that was a nice shot, Mittens…where’ve you been hiding that thing?! Pretty aggressive kill there.
Goalposts again.
Oh yeah baby, that’s my boy.
Jeez, what about Cluts makes people oh so angry?
Atta boy Cal. Witt’s a pretty stand up guy though, so I’m glad that wasn’t more questionable.
Clutter my hero.
Tricky shot by bruno, pity that helmets not a little more pointy.
nice movement on this PP…
It was Doug Woog. Former Gophers coach, who now does color for Gopher games. I really wish the gopher announcers would replace dumb and dumber. They are great.
I think the Wild has blocked four shots on this one posession by the Isles
That’s my boy Shep
Yep. Looks like an Aeros game…
Queen MAB and Zids are brutal at holding the zone the last few games. Just terrible.
What channel can i watch if i have directTV w/o CI?
Gabby close but no cigar.
channel 45 on DTV, it’s a local
I don’t think you can WL. It’s not on FSNNO.
Did you see there how Cluts made space for Pouly? He’s such a damn rock star.
why the hang don’t i have 45… this is sick! I think someone messed with my tv…
Does Terhaar know how terrible we’ve been against backup goalies? I don’t think any wild players are really licking their chops at seeing McDonald.
So who’s the new skoula, Zids or MAB?
Didja see how Pouly took that space and put the shot into the goalie’s bellybutton, though? If Cal’s a rock star then Pouly plays third viola (sorry, musician joke)…
From who? VO?
poor Gaborik. Trying to make 2 stiffs look good is a chore even for him.
Zids, at least for the absolute bonehead play part. MAB does better for the ‘way the hell was he over there!?’ part
watch the game online:
Yes, I saw that, too, Nick. If that had been Kolanos, he’d have gotten a goal. Okay, if that had been Kolanos in the AHL, he’d have gotten a goal. He just looks weird out there with the Wild. He looks weird with the Aeros, too, but I assumed it was because I’m not used to seeing people who can score.
Come guys. Wake up and score.
JESUS BUTCH!
strong period from Shep so far - in all zones.
Ohhhhhhhhhh for three s#$t.
Lemme guess. Another scoreless first period?
Nick in New York says:
December 19th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
strong period from Shep so far - in all zones.
what are you talking about? he’s been out of position and has made terrible pass after terrible pass. he belongs in the AHL.
So, what’s the over/under on Kimmy keeping the C next month?
another awful penalty by Johnsson. not only is he a terrible captain, but his head is way too far up his butt to be effective.
Mr Bandgeek says:
December 19th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
So, what’s the over/under on Kimmy keeping the C next month?
1/2% ….. I take the under.
DAM….I need to bypass some restricions here in order to watch online…who can?
Again, can we pass better, please!
Why do the trolls stay on this thread. OK, who fed him?
Wow, the Rockford Ice Girls have some serious jugs.
WildLover says:
December 19th, 2008 at 7:41 pm
DAM….I need to bypass some restricions here in order to watch online…who can?
try here: http://atdhe.net/
the other sites I go to don’t seem to be broadcasting the game tonight.
raise your hand if you didn’t just go check rockford’s webpage for pics. Actually, better raise both hands…
Santa,
All I want this year is to have MAB traded. I don’t care what we get in return. I can’t watch him play anymore. This guy is a breakaway waiting to happen.
MAB makes Shim Yawnson look like Paul Coffey.
/pleads the fifth
Anyway HGD, Much thanks but it doesn’t work for me. I’m on a work computer and it has online TV blocked…stupid s—. Guess I’ll have to be content with radio until i get my CI hooked up again.
I’ll try to get a screen shot for ya…
Aeros down 0-2 
Looks like the Rockford Ice Girls have a good meal program.
WildLover says:
December 19th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
Anyway HGD, Much thanks but it doesn’t work for me. I’m on a work computer and it has online TV blocked…stupid s—. Guess I’ll have to be content with radio until i get my CI hooked up again.
Can’t you change the settings or just turn off the firewall for the period of the game?
Ms. C. Is Rockford a good team? Aeros behind 2 zip.
Can’t you change the settings or just turn off the firewall for the period of the game?
No, can’t make a move! Got tricks to bypass it?
They aren’t starving Puter…
They’re pretty good, but we shouldn’t already down by 2. This is Schaefer’s first game in a while but I didn’t see the first goal so it’s hard to say who’s at fault.
Rockford: 15-9-0-2
Aeros: 13-10-1-4
Backstrom is ‘Plan C’…
Rebuild and trade valuable assets at the end of a lost season.
I’m just not sure if the next iteration of the Wild will be physical or have puck movement.
Deep…any thoughts on this??? 
Another dreadful period.
Is there a reason why a Wild player CANNOT DRIVE TO THE NET WHILE CARRYING THE PUCK???
amazing that Butch never even thought to go to the net. Never even thought about it. He had a clear lane, could have made his way there and still let the rest of the line catch up.
OK, lets kill this off and get some goals
I don’t get how Johnsson, Skoula, and Sheppard look so terrible 5 on 5 or during the powerplay, but look so damn good on the PK. They enjoy being short handed ? It’s quite odd.
Shist…
Oh boy. Not again.
welcome back, Rip Park.
where the hell was the penalty on Miettinen? There was nothing worth a penalty.
@#$%@# Park
Gah, I want my name back! This person isn’t even posting
Park sux.
this Isles broadcast team (Rose and Jaffe) are pretty even handed.
“Photog” - just reload the page (F5-PC or Command-R mac), it should fix itself
Now lets do something on this PP
My memory’s hazy. Did Park leave as a FA during the lockout or did we trade him?
FA
Hmmmm…another All Star goaltender again, eh?
And for those with the MN feed, how many years old is that Budweiser ad?
We are so listless this period. come on, boys, pick it up.
Koivu wants the C back
Nobody else has earned it.
Russo…save youself some time and use your ‘gamer’ from any of the last 7 Wild games…
Mikko will have the C next month, I hope.
Is Clutterbuck really that hard to say? Seems like these guys always talk about how difficult it is to say.
wow…what a save.
Maybe something they shouldn’t say on air pops into their minds right along with clutterbuck.
and COME ON!
the Wild is a hooker’s nightmare: it never finishes.
I have to think Flutter to keep from saying Cluster…
kj says:
December 19th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
Russo…save youself some time and use your ‘gamer’ from any of the last 7 Wild games…
actually, the last month and a half.
ms. c. - what seems to be the problem in Rockford tonight?
Gabby and Koivu are getting frustrated and so am I.
The Wild needs to stop thinking about baseball?
Koivu just saved gaborik for that stupid pass he made
There has to be a curse on the Wild. Maybe the troll did it.
Aaron, they look like a team without a Kolanos. Just not connecting. But who knows. They have the capacity to come back so we’ll see.
Though Schultz laid such a hard hit on someone, I thought maybe Clutterbuck was in two places at once.
Howie Rose is my hero. Second time he’s lamented the North Stars leaving, and this time even threw Norm Green under the bus!
The Wild needs to stop thinking about baseball?
Yeah, golf would be more appropriate.
No!?
that should have been at least two goals.
I wish I had your feed NiNY…
Goal…or not?
Methinks not.
OMG Get in the net already!
Can the NHL make the nets two inches wider? PLEASE!?!
I’ve been pleasantly surprised, kj.
What the heck happened?
Mr. B: why? So we can have MORE shots hit the post?!
Yeah, Nick, it’s almost confusing how pro-Minnesota these guys are. It’s a very good broadcast.
Gaborik got Wilditis,too…
Wilditis - ice cold on scoring.
aw, that last post wasn’t me. One of these chances has to go in right?
It’s been one of those games where the Wild have done enough to have the lead, but they’re so fragile if the Isles score the next goal it’s over.
Boogey can’t have more than what, 2 shifts tonight?
Would that be a moral victory then? And how many moral victories until we get a participation trophy?
I’m just hoping that the Wild can score before NY does
how many moral victories until we get a participation trophy
LOL
NINY. We are under a curse. Ever since the troll has been posting we haven’t won.
Thanks Nick
I guess I just want an ice cream cone
Oh Pouliot, Pouliot, Pouliot…there was a defender right there. You know you can’t just skate right through him, right?
VEILLEUSELESS!!!!!!!!
THANK GOD
Wow, of all people it’s SRV. I might have put money on him, but only if it was he or Skoula.
amazing what can happen when someone has the balls to actually sit in front of the net.
FINALLY! Now hopefully that will wake the Wild up.
This does ruin my imaginary inspiration speech some wild player was going to give about finding themselves down to, of all people, the islanders and how that really turned the season around.
I’m sort of surprised Cal hasn’t had to fight yet tonight.
Thank God! Now can we score a couple more, please, pretty please?
I wouldn’t expect another fight out of him for a while, Nick.
Busty Ice Girl nearly wiped out. Awesome…
Busty Ice Girl nearly wiped out.
high center of gravity?
Busty Ice Girl!!!???
Exactly. I know this because I’ve done it myself. 
Just not in such a silly outfit and holding a snow shovel.
Friggin’ hell. Dump and chase. Dump and chase. No puck possession at all in this game. No confidence. Yuck.
+1, well played sir
Man, all we got was Nordy
a few things… one.. Yay srv! two… Its good to be in the X! three… I love hockey!.. Four.. I love beer! that is all.
mmmmmm Beer
sounds like a happy Austin. Good stuff, that.
ugh…Schultz may not be a scorer, but he sure as hell should’ve been shooting there.
Speaking of drunk and happy, they keep showing this Rockford crowd and there are some characters in the bunch. Must be nickel beer night.
Constantine keeps pulling Schaefer for the man advantage. Like in the 2nd period. Oh boy.
Chef Nicky’s gotta shoot that. No bacon wrapped tenderloin for him tonight.
GILLIES!!
Gillies?
Nice. Gotta love the junk goals
bout time for Colton…..Kolanos better never be sent back down. Inexcusable for him not to be in the NHL. He’s playing great tonight. And Russo is completely wrong. He keeps saying Krys can’t skate. Krys looks a bit goofy from time to time, but the guy can skate and quite well at that.
Ahhh!! YAY! Baby Gillies!
And an assist for Smilin’ Krys!
geez…SRV playing like a new man tonight. And WAY TO GO TO THE NET BUTCHY! We need more of that stuff, bro!
Congrats Gillies!!
that was THIEVERY.
Pretty pretty, pity it failed.
Way to shoot, Butchy
Merry Christmas on that save
Boogey with the helper on the Gillies goal too.
OH! Cal HAD that!
What is it with “second string” goalies having career nights against us?
Photog: have you ever heard the story about Larry Bird saying “Merry Christmas” to the Knicks bench while watching a 3-pointer sailing toward the net?
Pure joy and excitement from Gillies!! I love hockey!
Russo said Special K can’t skate? I would say that is one of his better qualities.
Colton you are a stud.
lol. no. that’s awesome
Congrats Gillies!! Clutterbuck got robbed by McDonald
And that’s at least two backdoor tap ins MacD has shut down, with Gaby and Cluts both stuffed. Need to get that puck up.
This is our first lead since Dec 3???
That explains a lot
McDonald has been excellent, fo sho.
I’m going to say that this has been Cal’s most effective game. He’s pissing people off and creating chances. I’ve noticed him in each period.
Franchise!
MIKKO!!
I hate to say this but we should have at least 6 goals by now.
KKKOOOOOOOOOIIIIIIIIIIVVVVVVVVUUUUUUUU
Great shot !!
Just give the C back to Koivu. That’s what we need franchise to do
I respectfully disagreed with him when he said it (or something to that effect), Aaron. He’s not a pretty skater but the dude’s got wheels and he’s agile.
How about that behind the back pass by Cal there?
Oh, sure. Show him up, Mikko. Show off.
they just announced that Sutton broke a foot blocking a shot in the first period.
ms.c: did you see how Backstrom just recovered right to left and slid back UP into his stance?! Hard to explain, but if you can go back and watch it.
BUTCH!!
This is the way it should be every game
wow, first time Bouchard has done anything of value in a long while. great pass to himself.
BUTCH!!
See what happens when you shot da puck!?!
Wow! 4 goals…. This is amazing.
PMB serving up a little top cheese and it tastes good!
that was a sick play by Butch. He absolutely must find some consistency at that level of play.
He probably scored that one for Austin. Perhaps a little more than just a man crush?
Perhaps a little more than just a man crush?
LMAO…and you KNOW we’re going to hear about it from Austin, AiH!!
Can we always play the Islanders?
Russo, I’m growing fond of your Isles!
I didn’t see it Nick but I know the move you’re talking about. I’m gonna lump that under Advanced Goaltending. Fair? (I’m kinda sad. We have a “championship” game Sunday and I don’t think I’m gonna get to play goal. I understand but I just wanna play.)
Did anyone else get choked up a little bit by that New York State Lottery commercial? No? Me either. Forget I said anything.
Well, all we need is Mittens to score and our top 6 have scored at least 1 goal in the these last 2 games. I am not counting Belanger.
AiH: yeah, my Gaborik hurt just watching it, but it was a sick move, and a brilliant display of following the play, too.
Damn, Sorry Aaron, I forgot to check my name. Obviously 9:17 was me.
And Aaron, Ryznar SCORED! First point! My Christmas present arrived for him!
Someone stole my identity for that post at 9:17 Nick. Not sure who was talking to you.
I think the curse has been lifted. Go Wild, keep scoring.
Haha, I saw that blog - that was fun reading.
And Rogers just got HIS first! WOO!!! Tie game! Take that bitches!
Well…it is the Islanders, not to rain on parades.
Whooohooo
we are beating the 2nd worst team in the league….
I am a long time follower of the Russo Rant blog. I never chime in typically, but I really miss Mister Know it all. Where is he ?
Into… if it spares us one day of chicken littles standing on the ledge, I’ll take it.
Plus, great game for Cal and a goal for the bambino… I can’t complain.
that last post wasn’t me. I’m happy to break the funk we have been in
good win. Finally.
Much better efforts from some of the role players - and the result is obvious. Hopefully Gaby’s not too tender and they can keep it up tomorrow under the Arch.
I hope Burnzie get’s used to the blueline quickly now, his misplays there were ugly. I think I heard him cursing from my basement.
get’s..wow. gets.
Poop. Hogs came back and scored. Way to suck the wind out of my team, piggies.
theo947 says:
December 19th, 2008 at 9:20 pm
I think the curse has been lifted. Go Wild, keep scoring.
In STL tomorrow. It’s nice they beat a patsy team, but tomorrow will be tough.
Well, it may be the Isles, but we NEEDED a win. Please let this slump be over. We’re better than this month’s record
Yeah this blog is messed up, I have no idea who Photog is, but his info came up on my comment field after I had typed in my own when I went to post about 2nd worst team…
Startrib might want to look into that….
Clutter ngets the second star. Franchise received the first. Burnsie got the third. Good game to get the curse lifted. On to St. Louie and continue the scoring. See you all tommorow.
Burns got a star? Did I miss something big?
Huge Sigh of Relief!
Wasn’t as exciting as the Flames game but Gillies got a goal and we won.
Burns did pay 26 minutes followed by Koivu with 24 and Gaborik and Zidlicky at 21 minutes.
Whoa, Rosa scores. Conduct - was your Christmas list written with the aid of a crystal ball?
WOOO! Rosy with the tying goal!!! There IS a Santa!
Right? I’m a freaking genius!
Oh yay Cal on the star!
I guess that is something. I probably would have given it to MacDonald, but he did lose, so there’s that.
Koivu sir, that goal was sick!
I would have given it to Gillies just for sentimental sake.
sunshine: I bet that puck he’s bringing home is a nice consolation prize.
No doubt, Nick. I think the kid can call it a good night. Maybe they’ll let him have a light beer on the plane to St. Louis.
Maybe they’ll let him have a light beer on the plane to St. Louis
Haacke-Beck?
It is but everybody chipped in tonight. This was a team effort. Last night was more of a Gaborik, Bruno, Koivu, Backstrom night. Tonight, no one really stood out because everybody stood out tonight.
When you think about it, all four lines scored tonight. Great goal-tending and great defense.
Here I am Photog. I of course said the Wild would beat the Islanders but good.
I have thought of what the Wild might have cooking, and that is the story here. What would make sense for DR to do, well lets examine
This frantic discussions of trade seems to come right after Gaby gets in the lineup
Lets study this
The Wild will have 8 D men soon when Foster gets back and they all are starters
Why would Gaby be traded so soon after he gets on the ice. Seems like this makes no sense for it to be him unless someone is looking at his medical condition and is deeming his injury of no concern
Pouliot looks more and more like he could fit playing hockey in the East. His trade value seems higher then what it may have been. He is not JL material
Reitz is too good to not play. This guys stock may be high now. It may be that the Wild keep him and move Skoula or Schultz if the trade is right
Bottom line- The GM who both knows DR and is in a no lose situation to make a deal is Burke. He is desperate to be a hero in Toronto. If he makes the playoffs he will be a hero. So maybe Gaby is the guy, and maybe Toronto is the team. No doubt Erik Reitz is Brian Burke material
This is Mister Know it all
I don’t even know what that is, Nick… I’m a beer idiot. I only drink beer that needs a slice of fruit. Which means I’m not living the High LIfe, but whatever.
Oh boy. Another shootout. At least Schaefer’s already in. Would SURE BE NICE TO HAVE KOLANOS……
the Flames/Blackhawks game is tied late in the third, and is full value.
To Dan the Hindu Spirtual Teacher:
In response to someone being positive you stated: “they beat a patsy team, but tomorrow will be tough.” Are you secretly a Blues fan in denial? The Blues terrible; easily just as bad as the Islanders. They haven’t won in five games and they are sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference. Not the kind of comment I would expect from a so-called Guru.
Hawks win in OT. Damn loser points.
Gogabygo, asked for Gabby to put the team on his back and go in the opening commment in this thread.
Realistically, the only Wild player with big enough shoulders for that job is Mikko.
But, now they have the monkey off their back which is not the same as being out of the slump.
I don’t think anyone ought to minimize this win. Every NHL team can smoke you at a time. And, with that big monkey riding on everyones back it is not easy to break.
You gotta appreciate the Wild have not quit. Maybe they are a fraction too slow at getting the shots off so they can be saved, or else miss the mark.
But, when a team continues to play strong “D”, it proves they are working like hell. And, I say hats off to them to continue to bust their asses when things have been so hard lately.
Edmonton guaranteed a loser point too.
Ice: realistically only three players on this Wild team that can carry the team on their backs: Gaborik, Koivu, and Backstrom.
Yesterday showed that Gaborik did all he could to give this team 1 point. Without him, it would have been a big fat ZERO.
Koivu carried this team for much of October then Backs did with his strong goal-tending.
Tonight - was a team effort. Everybody did their part. Every line scored, the defense played great, and Backstrom was outstanding. This is what’s needed every game and have been missing in the losing streak. Not just from one person or three but from EVERYBODY.
This team should feel good about themselves even if its against the Islanders. Let’s keep this going boys. And if we need to lose, lose in OT or SO, please.
MAB out for tomorrow per Falness. He suffered a lower body injury and will not be on the trip to St. Louis.
You might be right MKiA. I also have been counting DMen.
It must be a multi-player deal with someone.
I think we get a solid player or two, and a high draft choice.
We give up Gabby, a forward, and at least one D and possibly draft choices.
I do not think Schultz will be gone. Possible, at some time in his career, but maybe now is not the time.
Now, there is one scenario and that would be if Gabby and his agent would reconsider wanting to stay here and realize the economy is not on his side and the summer offer might be the best he will get.
Yes, Sunshine, Koivu plays every game strong, even when he has a down game.
Tonight, 24.5 minutes; six shots, a missed shot, a hit, a take away, and a blocked shot. Faceoffs - 64%.
You might say Man Mountain!
My comment about Koivu carrying the team is that he can do so on both ends of the ice. I am not saying Gabby is not talented but he needs somebody to feed him to show his talent.
- Hope the ATXs enjoyed the W tonight.
- Dan - is STL a road game for the Wild or a home game played on the road?
- Russo has this:
With the Wild’s need at center, one has to wonder if it’ll put a waiver claim in for Tampa’s Jussi Jokinen, a buddy of Antti Miettinen. An NHL roster freeze until Dec. 27 went into effect at midnight, but waiver claims still can be made.
http://www.startribune.com/sports/wild/36480239.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUBP7hUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiU
I am not disagreeing with you the importance of Koivu because he is integral to this team.
However, so is Gaborik and so is Backstrom. You just refuse to see their importance as well.
6GS:
You missed my take on Russo’s reporting that DR frantically calling to make a deal was just calling to claim Jussi and the meeting with Lemaire is about potentially sending Clutterbuck down to make room for him so that Lemaire isn’t blindsided and upholds DR’s “promise” of being on the same page as JL.
I chose Clutterbuck because he doesn’t need to pass through the waiver wires. Weller is on a two year deal. Gillies can’t be send to Houston. Reit not going to Houston because we need a healthy defensemen in the wings practicing with team so he is familiar to the system.
sunshine, Wild are still a man short on the roster I think. they could pluck Jussi and not have to make a move, or do the right thing and waiver Weller or Boogaard.
Update from Russo above
Good update. Thanks Russo. You’re a gem.
Yay for Reitzy getting back in (not that I wish MAB ill. Zids, OTOH…)
Man, what a great day of hockey! Exciting wins for both my teams, all the guys who needed goals go goals. Good stuff.
HGD:
The Wild is not a man short because the Wild had to put Nolan on IR to make room for Kolanos. We were a man short when Gaborik was still on IR with no Kolanos or Mojzis up with the big club. Now that Gaborik is no longer on IR we are at 23 man roster now.
Clutterbuck is playing in place of Foster. Kolanos in for Nolan and Belanger is not on IR.
Just home from the X, and to paraphrase Homer Simpson, the Islanders are the suckiest bunch of sucks who ever sucked.
(Gotta go, my damn wiener kids are here.)
It was great to see a win again, but I don’t know what to make of it, because NYI is one bad hockey team. But Kylanos really impressed me….he shouldn’t have to go back to Houston again. P-Marc’s move to get open was fantastic, as was Mikko’s little move along the boards to get free. Can’t believe the way he wired that shot into the corner.
The corpse is showing some life, but they really need to put a back-to-back effort together and get two points tomorrow night.
But Kylanos really impressed me….he shouldn’t have to go back to Houston again.
Uh oh, you’re gonna stir up a hornet’s nest with that stuff.
- Some background on Jokinen the Lesser below - since this move would give DR some breathing room on the C issue and it has a chance to put Benny on wing I am all for it but as Russo notes above, he is going to have to make his way down to the Wild. Hard to believe teams like NYI couldn’t use a player like him at age 25.
- sunshine > Dan on the roster - no good options there as to how to make a spot but perhaps Cal’s trip to Houston will make even more sense if there is a deal taking shape for 12/27. If Weller would have been waived today, could the Wild have used that spot to add Jokinen before Weller cleared?
The Lightning tried to trade Jokinen, who is making $1.875 million this year in the final year of a two-year contract that will make him a restricted free agent, during the summer and training camp but didn’t find any takers. In training camp, however, Jokinen stood out when he was moved to center and earned a roster spot.
Tampa Bay general manager Brian Lawton said Friday he has received a couple of phone calls from teams asking about Jokinen once he was placed on waivers. Lawton also said Jokinen will not necessarily be reassigned to AHL Norfolk if he clears.
Jokinen has been a mainstay on the second power-play unit and has been a steady penalty killer.
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2008/dec/20/sp-jokinen-placed-on-waivers/sports-lightning/
Wow, the Isles only got 16 shots? Damn.
PS - I am open to Kylanos as the answer to C depth too - he passed the NYI test tonight. However, Jokinen the Lesser could move to wing easier if the numbers suddenly gave the Wild a surplus at C for the first time ever - Given his ability to play both, I am a bit surprised TBL just didn’t move him back to wing with Halpern coming off IR but it could also reflect the $ issues I believe TBL is reported to be having.
Y’all are gonna have to learn to spell his name if he’s gonna stay there:
Kolanos.
I just cut and paste the last “Kolanos” I see
I’m just saying is all. If I have to endure the heartache of losing him, I’m gonna have to have some ground rules.
Ugh. Working sucks. Just my comentary for the day. Wild win… YEA!
Jokinen… I just cannot imgaine he makes it all the way to the Wild. Would be nice though. Looking at his numbers he is a solid player. Game changer… likely not, but a solid, talented center. Would give JL the brething room to bench Benny and Shep every so often.
Ms. C…
Kolanos…
Kolonas…
Colonas$..
I’ll get it eventually.
With that, I ahve been up for 22 hours. I am going to bed.
Wild Win!
If it helps, I hope the Wild gets Jokinen and has depth at C with Kolanos is warm Houston all winter long.
They still have Torts and Melrose’s contracts to contend with. I am not sure about Vrbata’s, if he was picked up by a Czech team, they might be off the hook for the rest of the year on his contract but he still has 2 years remaining.
They might have a couple of one- way contracts that are languishing in the minors — so yeah, they want to reduce their salary.
I have said, to my detriment by CC supporters, that while CC does bring physicalness to the game (which is needed), Kolanos gives us more flexibility. We will have 5 centers and also allows Lemaire to spot Pouliot or Kolanos at wing anytime without putting additional demands on Koivu, Belanger, and Shep. This gives us more offensive punch.
Weller can go to the minors but we will be paying him a NHL salary to play down there. If money isn’t an issue to CL and the investors, then send Weller down.
Would give JL the brething room to bench Benny and Shep every so often.
Another plus - starting to wonder if the Wild should have traded a low round pick for him (insert your own joke about the Wild’s success in the lower rounds here).
I did say that we should trade Skoula for Jussi earlier this season because their cap hit would’ve been the same. This was at a time where Lemaire was high on Mojzis so gave us some leeway on the blueline.
Keep warm tomorrow and I will see you guys all during the Blues game.
I like that, 6GS. Warm, Houstony Kolanos is good.
- I checked via email with Russo and he said TB is probably free of the entire Vrbata deal - they got lucky there it appears.
- Sounds like Weller should get the plane ticket south if that is the case - are JL and DR so concerned about physical play that they will not part with him even though he rarely plays?
My Google news searches only show Russo reporting any interest in Jokinen the Lesser thus far so I go to bed hopeful - c-ya all Saturday when we find out.
Season is long. Weller might get significant ice time yet!
Can Poulliot be sent down?
Jussi would be a good addition.
MissConduct, how is Lundbohm doing in Houston?
I only drink beer that needs a slice of fruit. Which means I’m not living the High LIfe, but whatever.
Nice!
Bouchard-Veilliux-Pouliot, the new French Connection Line!
I only want Jokinen because he’s a Finn. I don’t think Clutterbuck should be sent down to make room.
Lastly, the Isles, as has been noted here a couple of times, are really really bad. They were trailing 1-0 late in the 2nd, even if they were outshooting them 234 - 3 or whatever it was. Pete LoPresti could come out of retirement and have a career game vs. the Wild.
The Wild outshot the Blues 39-16 (season-highs in shots for and against). The differential of 23 tied a franchise record.
The Don is already getting some work done for Saturday????
[…] -Minnesota defenseman Marc-Andre Bergeron suffered a "lower-body" injury last night. […]
Nice Post Mister Know it all. I dont know who the Photog is but sounds like some creature from the Godzilla era
Mister Know it all says:
December 19th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
Here I am Photog. I of course said the Wild would beat the Islanders but good.
I have thought of what the Wild might have cooking, and that is the story here. What would make sense for DR to do, well lets examine
This frantic discussions of trade seems to come right after Gaby gets in the lineup
Lets study this
The Wild will have 8 D men soon when Foster gets back and they all are starters
Why would Gaby be traded so soon after he gets on the ice. Seems like this makes no sense for it to be him unless someone is looking at his medical condition and is deeming his injury of no concern
Pouliot looks more and more like he could fit playing hockey in the East. His trade value seems higher then what it may have been. He is not JL material
Reitz is too good to not play. This guys stock may be high now. It may be that the Wild keep him and move Skoula or Schultz if the trade is right
Bottom line- The GM who both knows DR and is in a no lose situation to make a deal is Burke. He is desperate to be a hero in Toronto. If he makes the playoffs he will be a hero. So maybe Gaby is the guy, and maybe Toronto is the team. No doubt Erik Reitz is Brian Burke material
This is Mister Know it all
I am willing to bet my lunch that Hossa and Gaborik wind up in L.A. next year.
If boogys new role is to take the puck into the O’zone dish it and go to the net…then mabey butch should have a new role too, we shall call it “shoot the puck at the net!”
ms.c - you should be all set with beerfruit given all the citrus in your front yard.
It was good to see Gillies get one.
It’s about time SRV gets one.
PMB = overrated. Maybe scoring a goal will cause him to contribute in line with his contract. Remember all the blogwhining over Kimmy’s contract?
They will need to win again tonight - and should…it IS St. Louis.
Hossa and Gho$t will sign a one year deal in Van next year. Then the 3 Groinegos will all go to LA the following year.
going back quite a bit here but…
and you KNOW we’re going to hear about it from Austin, AiH!!
You’re damn skippy! PMB must have known we were in teh building because he plalyed a pretty solid game. He shoulda bagged two but the Isle goalie robbed him on one. But the one he did get was a nifty goal to say the least. Koivu’s shot was a beaut too. Needless to say the Austins left the X very happy. Now let’s hope for a repeat performance on Tues for the Canes where we will be in attendance once again.
Oh, and thanks again Six Goalie System. Those seats were great!
Iceman, Lundy’s groin exploded two or three weeks ago so he’s been out. He’s been unspectacular prior to that. Solid two way play but not much offense.
My trees are barren at the moment, kj… But now I’ve got a hankerin’ for a Blue Moon.
groin exploded
translation: his wiener exploded.
Glad you guys were treated to a W, Austin. Keep that good juju rolling for the ‘Canes game, please!
Yeah, I have trouble going there, Nick. Visions of hot dogs too long in the microwave. Blech.
MissConduct, his dad and mom were customers of mine when I was in business, and became friend too, thanks for the update.
When David and Bryan were Sioux, the parents took us to games once a year when they played the Duluth - Bulldogs.
He seems like a decent fella, Ice. He was the captain before he went out.
Please stop snowing!!!!
All I asked for was enough to cover the dead grass and today they are talking 7 or so inches!
Good game last night, made wrapping pressies more fun. I think Kolanos was almost as excited for Gillies goal as Gillies was. Plus Kolanos has some killer blond curls sticking out from that helmet. Ok I should go back to working now.
Holy Moley!
Anybody out there in russoville watching the philly vs washington game? Donald Brashiere and Riley Cote just dropped the gloves and Donald went right to starting the chainsaw on rileys face 10 or so hard punches! The game is in Philly so the crowd was just quiet with mouths open. It reminded me of the simpsons when homer is a crusty lookalike to entertain kids and he pounds the crap out of the “hamburgler” and all the kids start crying saying “stop your going to kill him!”
If I were you I’d you tube the fight…
Yeah, BG, Kolanos knows how to celebrate a goal. I think he really does get more excited about others’ goals than his own, especially when it’s a big goal for that player. There was a game in Houston a while back where he was on the ice for Locker’s second goal of the game after a long dry spell and it was the warmest, nicest, happiest goal celebration I think I’ve ever seen and he was the ringleader.
And yes, the hair… and the smile.
I waited all day for the news on Jokinen the Lesser and here it is:
Lightning center Jussi Jokinen, zero goals in 15 games, cleared waivers , and will be in the lineup tonight against the Thrashers in Atlanta. GM Brian Lawton said the team has no intention right now of sending Jokinen to the minors. He said the move to put him on waivers was a “wake-up call” to a player who has been underperforming.
….
Jokinen has six goals but has just two assists in his past 15 games, and coach Rick Tocchet confirmed Jokinen’s knees have been bothersome, though he did not realize how much until Jokinen took a couple days off from practice this week. Still, Lawton said he wants to see a better overall effort. Tocchet spoke of Jokinen being soft on the puck and committing numerous turnovers. he also mentioned Jokinen has had plenty of chances to snap out of the slump as his minutes have not wavered much from the 16:43 he is averaging, though he played only 11-plus minutes Thursday against the Avalanche.
http://blogs.tampabay.com/lightning/2008/12/jokinen-clears.html
Uh… yeah… no claim on Jokinen because… why again?
Because we are so solid at center?
Hmm-soft on the puck and committing numerous turnovers? That the guy you want Buddha?
I wager the ATL was higher in the waiver order.
I’m relieved.
That’s Tocchet’s take. Not so sure I would trust him as far as I can throw him.
If the Wild does not need Jokinen than clearly this is a team without a weakness.
I would not have minded getting Jokinen, I guess, but we always seem so enamored with the guy just over the horizon. Jussi has not exactly set the league on fire with 6g and 4a this season.
Uh… yeah… no claim on Jokinen because… why again?
maybe his 1.8m cap hit, RFA status at end of year. a player that has 10 points in 31 games. never scored more than 17 goals.
oh but he is good in the shootout…
If the Wild does not need Jokinen than clearly this is a team without a weakness
more a team that understands that wasting money on JJ is not the answer
was it mentioned last night that after MAB the worst player on the ice last night was the oft celebrated Kolanos? Hopefully it was an off night if he is our savior from Houston.
SRV seems to be picking up on Clutts vibe and hitting more. Back to being reckless like he used to be. Maybe our discussion yesterday of him needed to be cut got to him.
Oh I’m dumb. Thought ATL picked him up. Duh.
Still glad we didn’t pick him up.
G*, nope, it hasn’t been mentioned. He looked weird to me, but he always looks weird to me. I’ve learned to live with it in favor of points on the scoreboard, but I’m also not convinced his style will translate into the NHL. Though I’m happy for him to get a few games to settle down and give it his best shot.
