View Full Version : Let the Puck Drop! Official NHL Playoff Thread
MMouse6937
05-19-2008, 12:18 PM
I do happen to know a little about hockey traditions and superstitions given that I've been a hockey fan nearly as long as you've been alive. And I do watch the playoffs every year, as well as much of the regular season when I have the opportunity.
After you gave our boys girly names to make fun of them, accused them of "diving" to draw penalties, complained that officiating went the Pens way, and got offended when someone commented that you and Ian were dominating the thread, I had no desire to engage you in a back and forth conversation or talk X's and O'x with you. Sorry to disappoint you, I'd just rather celebrate my team's accomplishments than rip on yours.
Thanks, the Pens are the better team. I just glad they had the opportunity to prove it so clearly.
I haven't posted in a long time and not quite sure why I am now, but I gave up a long time ago. I tried to talk about my team and the playoffs and got called the "dead wings" and that was it. This was very much a Flyers thread for a long time after the Devils were elimated with Maryanne and Ian going back and forth. I would try to interject something from western conference and it was like my microphone wasn't on. I just chose to bow out. I will watch my games and hope that the Red Wings take home the cup. I like back and forth banter as much as anyone, but when it gets one sided, I just stop trying.
I tried to talk about my team and the playoffs and got called the "dead wings" and that was it.
If that turned you off from the thread don't read any sports discussion forums outside of Intercot. Making fun of teams and players in sports is a constant it shouldn't turn you away.
As a Yankee fan i constantly hear A-Roid and other comments I just ignore or give back as good as I get all in the spirit of fun.
Hey those "Dead Wings" are still flying while the Flyers crashed and burned ;)
I'm not sure what people expected here ... Mary Ann and I are Flyers fans and, thus, are going to talk about the Flyers.
I mean not for nothing, but I hate the Red Wings and the Penguins. I didn't see anyone else talking about the Flyers, now did I?
I don't really get at all what people are upset about. If you want to talk about your team, talk about your team. No one is stopping you.
And if you get offended because someone calls your team or your favorite player a name, then you're in the wrong place. The knitting discussion board is three websites over.
MMouse6937
05-19-2008, 04:07 PM
I'm not sure what people expected here ... Mary Ann and I are Flyers fans and, thus, are going to talk about the Flyers.
I mean not for nothing, but I hate the Red Wings and the Penguins. I didn't see anyone else talking about the Flyers, now did I?
I don't really get at all what people are upset about. If you want to talk about your team, talk about your team. No one is stopping you.
And if you get offended because someone calls your team or your favorite player a name, then you're in the wrong place. The knitting discussion board is three websites over.
So there's the point, it's not about us not wanting to talk hockey, it's about us ALL wanting to talk about hockey. And if I remember correctly Ian, you were the one in another thread that chastised Intercot members for being too "rough" on someone who had submitted a question and how you were shocked at the behavior of some people, etc. I can handle them being called the "dead wings" but I also expected that in a hockey thread all hockey would be talked about, not just the Flyers, that's why I stopped posting, with you and Maryanne going on I might as well been talking to myself, and I can do that just fine off of Intercot. :blush:
Okay Sarah ... I get that, but why are you blaming Mary Ann and I for that?? Blame your fellow Red Wings fans who aren't coming out to support their team!
It's not our fault ... don't expect us to talk about a team we loathe. I understand the desire to avoid the thread since no one wants to talk Red Wings with you. What I don't get is the venom thrown mine and Mary Ann's way because we're loyal fans here supporting our team? :confused:
MMouse6937
05-19-2008, 04:19 PM
It's not venom at all, just observations, and that's why I didn't post for awhile, I just watched my games and moved on with it. I don't *loathe* any team in the NHL and I love hockey for the sport, not because I want to bash another team or not root for another team. I like friendly banter, but the only people bantering were you and MaryAnne, and that's fine, it's why I dropped out. But we are supposed to be a *community* *friends* etc and it didn't really feel that way. That's not yours or MaryAnne's fault, it was just the way the thread was going. Some people (I think it was MaryAnne) said that she liked posting here about hockey because it wasn't insulting and vulgar, it felt like it was ok to root for your team and have some friendly banter. When it felt like I was talking to a wall, it wasn't worth it anymore, that's all there is really.
PirateLover
05-19-2008, 05:35 PM
Sarah, had I been able to watch more games I would've commented more. I believe I did make at least one comment about the Red Wings looking unstoppable. I can't comment on something I don't see. I will watch any hockey game when I get the chance, but my schedule doesn't always allow. Obviously I know more about the Flyers than any other team. I listen to sports talk, read blogs about them etc. I don't have that kind of familiarity with any other team to talk as in depth about them as I can with the Flyers, sorry. But if the situation were reversed... Like if I were the only Flyers fan and there were a bunch of Red Wings fans going back and forth, I wouldn't be discouraged from posting. I certainly wouldn't tell them to stop dominating the thread. Unfortunate that the Flyers did not have a chance to meet the Wings again in the Finals, then maybe we could've had some better discussion.
As far as the name calling... I don't like other sites because yes they are VULGAR and very insulting. As in, I hope so and so dies, talking about family members, skewering opinions of others. That is different than what I consider poking fun or jeering a bit, which is about the extent of what has happened in this thread. I am sorry if others along the line got offended or discouraged but I guess we are just not on the same wave length. I think I'm going to end my participation in this particular discussion on that note.
A couple points and then I'll turn this thread over to the folks who's teams are still in it ...
#1, when we started this forum a year or so ago, we posted the forum rules. Specifically, that this forum would operate under slightly different guidelines than the rest of the boards, given the fact that sports discussions tend to get a bit more heated and have a lot more taunting, teasing, etc. That doesn't mean we allow personal attacks, vulgarity, nastiness, etc. But it does mean that making fun of players, calling them names, calling teams names, and all that is well within the rules of what's acceptable in this particular forum.
#2, I'll fully admit that I'm a Philly sports fan first and foremost. I rarely, if ever, watch sporting events (outside of the NFL) when a Philly team is playing. I have no interest in other teams and certain teams, like the Red Wings in particular, I have a deep and intense hatred for. I will never engage in conversation about teams like the Wings, Rangers, Devils, Giants, Mets, Yankees, Cowboys except in the instance that I'm making fun of them, ripping them, or putting them down in some other way, shape or form.
#3, I don't think I should be made to feel guilty or "bad" somehow for coming out in support of my team. I would have gladly welcomed fans of other teams to the thread had they bothered to show up. Early on, when JPL was still actively involved in the thread, he and I were going back and forth ... I would have gladly done the same thing with other fans of other Eastern Conference teams if there were any left.
I now bow out gracefully on the 2007-2008 NHL season and wish the Stars the best of luck. They're the only team left I can stomach.
kakn7294
05-19-2008, 07:56 PM
It certainly wasn't my intention to make anyone feel guilty or "bad" for supporting their team. I simply wanted to support my team in my way and doesn't happen to include ripping on the other teams. Perhaps that's not what was expected in this thread, but that's the way I chose to conduct myself.
For my DH and for Sarah, LET'S GO RED WINGS!
kakn7294
05-19-2008, 10:44 PM
Oh baby, what a final series this is going to be! I think these two teams are about as evenly matched as any can be with the exception of the Wings having the advantage of experience and home ice. But none of that has seemed to matter to the Pens this season. Can't wait for it to start! See you all on Saturday!
Let's go Pens!!!
MMouse6937
05-19-2008, 11:15 PM
It certainly wasn't my intention to make anyone feel guilty or "bad" for supporting their team. I simply wanted to support my team in my way and doesn't happen to include ripping on the other teams. Perhaps that's not what was expected in this thread, but that's the way I chose to conduct myself.
For my DH and for Sarah, LET'S GO RED WINGS!
Oh baby, what a final series this is going to be! I think these two teams are about as evenly matched as any can be with the exception of the Wings having the advantage of experience and home ice. But none of that has seemed to matter to the Pens this season. Can't wait for it to start! See you all on Saturday!
Let's go Pens!!!
That was quite a game, once again back to total domination. Looking forward to Saturday's game, we'll see how it matches up!
LETS GO RED WINGS!!
letsdoitagain
05-20-2008, 07:32 AM
Anyone can say what they will about the pens, flyers or whoever. Both the pens and the flyers were in pretty bad shape the past few years, neither one performing very well. I think its great that both pennsylvania teams have gone as far as they did. But, there can only be one winner, and after all the crying and whining and "we gave them that game they're not magic" comments from the flyers I was glad to see them embarrased in game 5. Maybe that will drive some of that smart mouth cockeyness out of them and they will perform up to their full potential next year and we can have a repeat of this year, next year.
Now, on the detroit. The steelers won there and so can the pen.
GO PENS!!!!!:number1:
Early on, when JPL was still actively involved in the thread, he and I were going back and forth ...
The going back and forth is all part of sports fun. My best friend is a Flyer Fan and when they got swept in 97 I sent him a card with pieces of a broom in it. When the Devils lost is 2001 he returned the favor with a box full of flour with the letters for the word Avalance cut out and mixed. I have friends who like all different teams and we always have a blast going back and forth all in good fun of course.
I have to say the style of Hockey played in the Western Conference really doesn't interest me all that much I am an Eastern Conference fan.
Although in the case of this year's final I quickly became a Red Wing Fan since I really can't stand the Penguins being from the same division and beating us out at the trade deadline for Hossa. I won;t even get into the kid gloves the league treats Crosby with.
So for the Finals I want to give out a rare
Let's Go Wings :sick: :ack:
alphamommy
05-20-2008, 09:56 AM
As a Red Wings fan, I'm happy to be back in the finals.
What I'm dreading is listening to the hockey pundits on TV singing Crosby's praises when he and Henrik Zetterberg are tied for total points in the playoffs.
I hope we get Franzen back soon.
Here's to a good finals, and
LET's GO RED WINGS!!!
julyjewel
05-20-2008, 10:49 AM
As a person from the Burgh, I am pulling for the Pens. I did watch The Red Wings/ Dallas game last night and I really don't know how the Stars made it that far.
I really don't think you can just single out certain players. the team has to work together for the greater good. Honestly, I feel the one player that should be appreciated the most on any team is the goalie! :cheer:
Let's Go Pens!!! :penguin:
Honestly, I feel the one player that should be appreciated the most on any team is the goalie!
So true and this is the position that the league ignores the most when promoting the game. Unless you are 50+ goal scorer you are worthless in the league's eyes.
Jeff G
05-20-2008, 12:18 PM
As a fan of hockey in general this looks to be a great series final with the best two teams who seem evenly matched and bring a lot of intensity representing. This should be a great for the NHL too bringing a lot of casual fans like myself back to the game by having two teams with broad appeal. You have the up and coming Penguins with a ton of young talent & the feel good turn around story line taking on the Wings who are always there when it counts.
I hate to be a band wagon fan(I've had the same NFL & MLB favorites from the late 70's) but I'm going with the Penguins on this one. I live in Central Wisconsin where we get very limited NHL coverage making it hard to follow any single team. Most of the games I caught this year were on Sunday afternoons where it seemed NBC only covered the Penguins. From the games that were on both Malkin and Crosby played phenomenally and the rest of the team was fun to watch.
barnaby
05-20-2008, 12:21 PM
You can say whatever you want about the Flyers.
The Penguins nearly moved out of Pittsburgh because no one went to the games. :eek:
That has never happened in Philadelphia. ;)
This should be a great for the NHL too bringing a lot of casual fans like myself back to the game by having two teams with broad appeal.
I tend to disagree about it being be good for the NHL. While it does feature their poster child superstar it doesn't have the large market appeal of other series in the past that helped Hockey gain some more casual fans. Crosby still isn't a household name like Gretzky and even Lemiuex were when they helped increase the fan base. I an going to predict below average ratings for this series.
julyjewel
05-20-2008, 01:21 PM
The Penguins didn't almost leave because nobody went to the games. They were looking into other offers because they needed a new arena. There was no cooperation from anyone. The facility is outdated and they felt as if they didn't have the voice to change it. The Flyers have a brand new arena. Pittsburgh has struggled with getting the new arena. Now that the arena is being built, they are staying. It has absolutely nothing to do with attendance. Attendance was low for a few years because players kept coming and going. People don't want to watch a team that has no stability. I have voiced my :twocents:
kakn7294
05-20-2008, 01:24 PM
You can say whatever you want about the Flyers.
The Penguins nearly moved out of Pittsburgh because no one went to the games. :eek:
That has never happened in Philadelphia. ;)Actually, that's NOT at all the reason that they nearly moved out of Pittsburgh. The fans were going to games in droves - many, if not most, were sell-outs. The problem there was that Mario and the Pens wanted a new arena (admittedly well deserved too) but the city didn't want to foot the bill for it - kinda tough to justify spending money on a hockey arena when they are in debt. Fortunately, it all worked out and the Pens are sticking around.
Sorry julyjewel! Apparently, we were posting at the same time!
I do agree that this series should bring in some casual fans, especially here in Pittsburgh, but overall, I don't know that it's going to really bring any new fans to the sport. I do think it's going to be exciting and that we're going to see more finesse and skill than hard-hitting and penalties. Both teams have some talented players and both goalies are great - they don't get enough credit but goalies almost never do.
PirateLover
05-20-2008, 01:38 PM
The problem with the direction the NHL is headed, is that they are so desperate for the casual audience that they are alienating the hardcore fans that stuck with them all these years. I agree with JPL, I don't think ratings will be all that great. Many fans are so frustrated by the blatant favoritism of Crosby by Bettman that they will certainly not be tuning in to watch the Penguins. And the Red Wings had trouble selling out their arena this post season, when they are supposed to be "Hockeytown USA." Yet this was clearly the desired matchup of the NHL from the beginning. I just don't get it.
Crosby still isn't a household name like Gretzky and even Lemiuex were when they helped increase the fan base.I an going to predict below average ratings for this series.Totally agree on the ratings ... they'll be sub-standard for sure. Two small market teams, one with no national appeal.
As far as Crosby goes, I don't even think he's the best player in the NHL right now. I'd take Malkin over him any day, and maybe even Ovechkin.
Not to mention that Gretzky had more class in his little pinky toe than Crosby does in his whole body. I realize he's talented, but I think the NHL is backing the wrong horse if they're really looking for their next poster child. He's not a guy who's going to carry a lot of national appeal, because he's very petulant and standoffish.
PirateLover
05-20-2008, 02:26 PM
The Flyers have a brand new arena. Pittsburgh has struggled with getting the new arena. Now that the arena is being built, they are staying. It has absolutely nothing to do with attendance. Attendance was low for a few years because players kept coming and going. People don't want to watch a team that has no stability. I have voiced my :twocents:
I do agree it's time for the Pens to get a new arena, but to say the problems had nothing to do with attendance is not entirely true. The Flyers' arena is now 11 years old. It was paid for almost entirely by private financing. The only thing that came out of state dollars were adjustments to the local infrastructure. Consistent attendance throughout the years is what helped the Comcast-Spectacor company become so wealthy and powerful. Even though the Flyers had the worst record in their history last year, they were still among tops in attendance %. In the year before the lockout, Pittsburgh was almost dead last. Since then they have been steadily climbing. (These numbers are based on %, not just overall attendance since Mellon arena can't seat as many people as some newer arenas. If you just look at overall attendance they are much lower but this of course isn't their fault since they can only seat around 17,000 some standing). Because the Pens couldn't afford to finance the building on their own, they tried to basically blackmail the state into paying for it after the city said no by threating to be a phone call away from moving to Kansas City. The final deal included no taxpayer money, but I hope they don't get into trouble because according to Gov. Rendell, much of the legalized gambling revenue was factored into the financing, and at least around these parts many of the casinos are having a hard time breaking ground. However, with the young talent they have and all the merchandise they are now selling, the planned increase in parking fees and ticket prices and all of that stuff, they will probably make a lot more money in the upcoming years.
MMouse6937
05-20-2008, 03:12 PM
Not to mention that Gretzky had more class in his little pinky toe than Crosby does in his whole body. I realize he's talented, but I think the NHL is backing the wrong horse if they're really looking for their next poster child. He's not a guy who's going to carry a lot of national appeal, because he's very petulant and standoffish.
I'm not saying that I disagree with your point that Crosby is not the next ambassador for the NHL, but I think your comparison to Gretz is way off. Gretsky is one of the least classy "post" players I have ever seen. Not only did his comments during the Olympics regarding Canada and the US (when his wife is american, his kids are american, and he made the majority of his millions in the american market), but his scandal in Phoenix in which he stated he didn't know what his wife was doing, has severly limited his credibility. My DH was a diehard Rangers fan back in Kazoo's day and he could care less now if he dropped off the face of the earth. He was classy as a player, but he's a blowhard now and certainly not an ambassador for hockey or the NHL in my opinion.
Jeff G
05-20-2008, 05:27 PM
I hang around with a large group of hockey families. Some are die hards for the NHL while many others are like me, just casual viewers. Of the casual viewers that I know most are really excited to see this series and plan to watch. For myself, if a large market team like Dallas or NY was in the cup series I wouldn't tune in to watch but because of the way the NHL does hype up Crosby and the fact that the times I've tuned in and watched him I've witnessed many way above average plays I'll be tuning in. I can't believe viewership will be down, the NHL has their poster boy in the finals which attracts fans like me. As for small markets, doesn't Detroit have one of the largest fan bases in the entire NHL? From what I remember they are one of the leagues most marketable teams.
I can't stand the NBA but when Jordan was working his magic I tuned in to see it just because he was so fun to watch. Since he retired I don't think I've watched a single playoff game. There are many who do the same in golf and Tiger. My guess is with all the hype Crosby gets there are going to be many like me who tune in this year and many more years just to witness him just because of the hype he gets.
barnaby
05-20-2008, 05:27 PM
People don't want to watch a team that has no stability.
Flyers had run there in the 90s with no stabilty or playoffs and played in an old building.
People still came to the games though. ;)
Flyers have never once been mentioned to be leaving the city. The fans always show up at the rink and supoprt their team.
Can't say the same for other teams like the Pens or Devils. :cool:
And just for the record, I picked the Penguins to win the Cup before the playoffs started and still think they will. :)
MMouse6937
05-20-2008, 05:50 PM
As for small markets, doesn't Detroit have one of the largest fan bases in the entire NHL? From what I remember they are one of the leagues most marketable teams.
Exactly, thank you, Detroit has one of the biggest fan bases of any team in the league. Not only in Detroit but as you see no matter where they play there are droves of Wings fans in the stands. In Colorado it was hard to tell by fan reaction whether the Avs or the Wings had scored there were that many fans in the stands. It's like no other hockey city I've visited or lived in, it's everywhere, not just with hockey fans, but the city bleeds it. Really stunning to me actually.
I'm ready for the series, I think it's going to be interesting, it's a pretty even match up. I think the Wings have a little more depth, but the Pens have some great players and a terrific goalie. I have always said Osgood (Osbad) can go either way and it can change in a heartbeat. Let's drop the puck! :D
My guess is with all the hype Crosby gets there are going to be many like me who tune in this year and many more years just to witness him just because of the hype he gets.
The difference is Jordan and Tiger became household names like Gretzky did for hockey. My mother know very little about hockey but she knows who Wayne Gretzky is. Mention Sidney Crosby and she wouldn't have a clue. His name has not hit the main stream just yet and quite honestly I'm not sure it will.
barnaby
05-20-2008, 05:58 PM
The difference is Jordan and Tiger became household names like Gretzky did for hockey. My mother know very little about hockey but she knows who Wayne Gretzky is. Mention Sidney Crosby and she wouldn't have a clue. His name has not hit the main stream just yet and quite honestly I'm not sure it will.
I think that is moreso because the NHL is not as popular as it was during the Gretsky and Lemiuex years.
Gretsky is one of the least classy "post" players I have ever seen.Can't say I disagree there. I was speaking solely of the way he conducted himself on the ice.
As for small markets, doesn't Detroit have one of the largest fan bases in the entire NHL? From what I remember they are one of the leagues most marketable teams.Detroit is a small T.V. market. Being one of the NHL most marketable teams means nothing on a national level. I'm talking big market teams like L.A. and NY franchises.
I think that is moreso because the NHL is not as popular as it was during the Gretsky and Lemiuex years.
I agree and we have one person to blame for that Gary Bettman. He tried to make the NHL into the NBA.
letsdoitagain
05-21-2008, 07:10 AM
To all the Flyers fans who are stabbing at the Pens almost leaving Pittsburgh:
WAAAAA WAAAA WAAA WAAAAAA!!!!!
You guys are just upset because not only did the Flyers loose, but they were down right embarrassed! You keep blaming the refs favoring Crosby, but when you loose 6-0 and only win one game in the series, the ref calls didn't loose you the games.
Point is, if your not a fan of the team who has the "superstar" your going to make excuses and nit pick at that team.
Be happy the flyers made it this far! I think you guys in Philly deserve congrats on the amazing turnaround your team made this season and you have nothing to be ashamed of. So quit your crying and use the loss as fuel so we can have a re-match next year.:D
Stickey
05-21-2008, 12:33 PM
This series has the potential for some high scoring games as neither goaltender is dominant. The Red Wings are the only team that has flashed greatness. If they play at this level, they will win in 5 games.
I was surprised to see the complaints about the frequent Flyers comments. I am a mostly partial observer( my team is the Flyers, but I was more interested in the 1980's and 1990's Flyers teams). This is an open forum, why can't someone discuss their team? Is it our resident Flyers fans fault that all teams do not generate the same level of interest?
There is nothing wrong with taking some some shots at other teams, that makes a discussion interesting. The one man team(Devils-Brodeur) has long since been eliminated. Crosby needs to play up to the hype, he would be third line at best on Gretzky's Oilers teams of the 1980's.
letsdoitagain
05-21-2008, 01:19 PM
There is nothing wrong with taking some some shots at other teams, that makes a discussion interesting. The one man team(Devils-Brodeur) has long since been eliminated. Crosby needs to play up to the hype, he would be third line at best on Gretzky's Oilers teams of the 1980's.
I agree 100% stickey. Crosby needs to play a higher level game to live up to his status. The days of the one man teams is certainly over and hockey in general still has to get back to the greatness and popularity of the 80s and 90s
PirateLover
05-21-2008, 06:35 PM
To all the Flyers fans who are stabbing at the Pens almost leaving Pittsburgh:
WAAAAA WAAAA WAAA WAAAAAA!!!!!
Yay! Someone with a sense of humor. ;)
barnaby
05-21-2008, 09:22 PM
To all the Flyers fans who are stabbing at the Pens almost leaving Pittsburgh:
WAAAAA WAAAA WAAA WAAAAAA!!!!!
You guys are just upset because not only did the Flyers loose, but they were down right embarrassed! You keep blaming the refs favoring Crosby, but when you loose 6-0 and only win one game in the series, the ref calls didn't loose you the games.
No, no, no - I've never blamed the refs or injuries for the Flyers loss to the Pens.:cool:
The Pens won because were the better team. Again, I picked them to win the Cup. ;)
I also think Crosby is the best player in the NHL.
But that doesn't change the fact the Pens almost left because the fairweather fans in Pittsburgh didn't show up at the rink. :)
I think the Flyers-Pens rivalry is going to be a good one for awhile.
letsdoitagain
05-22-2008, 08:20 AM
But that doesn't change the fact the Pens almost left because the fairweather fans in Pittsburgh didn't show up at the rink.
The reason the pens were going to leave was because Mellon Arean is well over 30 years old. The oldest area in the entire league. If you have ever been there the place is a dump!
There are many fair weather fans here, that's true as there are in a loe of other places. The problem is that we bleed black and gold here for the Steelers. Pittsburgh is a HUGE football town, so if your a team playing another sport, like hockey, we aren't going to waste our time on you if you don't perform well. Look at the Pirates. They're terrible, have been for many years now and attendance is very low at their games, but they're not threatening to leave. Why? Becase they got PNC Park, very new.
Anyway, who cares if the pens almost left. The fact is they didn't and we're glad to have them here. Maybe if they can keep getting into the playoffs on a more consistent basis, like the Steelers, Pittsburgh might share some of the football love with hockey.:D
alphamommy
05-24-2008, 04:40 AM
<snip> And the Red Wings had trouble selling out their arena this post season, when they are supposed to be "Hockeytown USA."
This is true, but the economy has a lot to do with that. A lot of people just can't afford to shell out what they are asking for playoff tickets.
As for ratings for this series and the size of the Detroit market, keep in mind that many, many Wings fans choose to watch the Finals on CBC rather than the (IMO lousy) US TV coverage. Our TV market size can't be judged soley based on US ratings because of that. For those of you who haven't seen a game covered by Canadian TV, let me assure you that their coverage (camera angles, commentary, etc.) is far superior to what we see in the US. Our local Detroit coverage is similar to CBC, but we get switched to national coverage after the second round. :angry:
Unfortunately for my family, we have satellite TV, and will be stuck with NBC, Versus, or whatever other channel(s) may be showing the games. :mad:
GO WINGS!!
MMouse6937
05-24-2008, 10:54 PM
Once again TOTAL domination! Should have been 5-0 if it hadn't been for that stupid call on Holmstrom. Basically he's called for interference even if he's sitting on the bench when they score, it's a joke.
The Pens look pretty weak, they better, they HAVE to play better next game, we'll see. Did you see poor Fleury fall when he was coming out onto the ice, there was a big pile up behind him :blush: Poor guy, that has to stink when you're the visiting team.
And, OMG is that the best "beard" Crosby can grow!! :D
LETS GO RED WINGS!!!
kakn7294
05-25-2008, 12:42 AM
Once again TOTAL domination! Should have been 5-0 if it hadn't been for that stupid call on Holmstrom. Basically he's called for interference even if he's sitting on the bench when they score, it's a joke.
The Pens look pretty weak, they better, they HAVE to play better next game, we'll see. Did you see poor Fleury fall when he was coming out onto the ice, there was a big pile up behind him :blush: Poor guy, that has to stink when you're the visiting team.
And, OMG is that the best "beard" Crosby can grow!! :D
LETS GO RED WINGS!!!I certainly didn't think it was total domination but the Wings did outplay the Pens who couldn't seem to capitalize on the chances they had. Fleury certainly made his fair share of mistakes - maybe that fall messed with his head. I didn't quite understand some of the penalty calls - they were calling some pretty questionable stuff and letting other, more blatant things go - on both sides.
And yes, pathetic as it is, it seems that's the best Crosby can do in the beard department. Even his best friend was interviewed on Pittsburgh tv making fun of it. I guess that's what you get when you've barely hit puberty!
PirateLover
05-25-2008, 11:14 AM
I think it was a bad omen when Marc Andre Fleury tripped and fell the first time he stepped onto Detroit's ice. Anyway, I do think the Red Wings looked pretty dominant. I mean pens didn't fold up or anything but as I said at one point earlier in the thread the Wings are just unstoppable and I didn't see anyone beating them. I stand by that. The first period Pens dominated the play a bit more, but after the teams felt each other out Detroit just zeroed in. Their forecheck was great, and their D clogged the neutral zone nicely. The Holmstrom call was definitely iffy.
As for Crosby's beard, does he know that the more you shave the thicker it grows back? He should just shave it everyday for the next year and hope that he can grow a nice one for the 09 playoffs. This one is an embarrassment to the league!;)
I have to say the Penguins looked like the lack of playoff experience caught up to them last night. Was Crosby even on the ice?
MMouse6937
05-26-2008, 11:30 PM
Once again, if that's not total domination I don't know what is. The Wings are unstoppable.
I have to say I am very disappointed that the Pens couldn't show a little more showmanship in the face of a loss. Punching Franzen in the face and plowing into Osgood is not going to help their cause. It really shows me the young versus the old team. You need to win and lose gracefully, but getting nasty on the ice doesn't do anyone any favors.
I fully expect the Pens to win at least one game, I don't think this will be a sweep, but at this point it's looking easier and easier!
Well, off the Pitts for Game 3, bring it on! :number1:
kakn7294
05-27-2008, 12:58 AM
Unfortunately, I'm at work and didn't get to see any of the game. I understand they looked pretty stinky though. Hopefully they'll turn it around at home. On the plus side, Fleury made it to the net without falling out of the tunnel this time. :thumbsup:
Definately not looking too bright for the Penguins right now. The frustration and and lack of playoff experience has been and will continue to be their downfall in this series.
I feel about this series much the same way I felt about last year's NFL playoff game between the Giants and the Cowboys. No matter who wins, I'm going to be disappointed.
But I have to say I am getting some satisfaction in seeing the Pens get kicked around a little. They seemed to be pretty darn arrogant after taking the East, so watching them get knocked down a peg or two isn't the worst thing in the world!
letsdoitagain
05-27-2008, 02:49 PM
The Pens have a full plate on their hands...that's for sure. By the time they figure the Red Wings out, they will have lost the series....much to my dissapointment. They need to score some goals! Being shut out twice is pathetic. Hopefully they will have better luck on home ice.
The wings have the advantage because most of the team has played together for years and have won multiple cups together. The Pens are young and inexperienced. They just need to settle down and beat on the wings a little harder. They need to smack them around and do some of their own hard hitting!
COME ON PENS! YOU CAN DO IT!
They need to smack them around and do some of their own hard hitting!
The Pens don't exactly have the hard hitting beat'em up type team ;)
MMouse6937
05-27-2008, 03:11 PM
The Pens don't exactly have the hard hitting beat'em up type team ;)
Exactly and I don't think that's the way you should try to win a game or show your displeasure at not winning. By punching someone in the face that has concussion symptoms and knocking down the goalie, you're not going to get anywhere other than in trouble. If they would just play better it wouldn't be an issue, I don't think becoming goons is the way out of this situation for the Pens.
But then again, they can keep it up for two more games and then we'll gladly take our cup and go home! ;)
kakn7294
05-27-2008, 03:53 PM
I don't think the Pens need to become more hard hitting, I think they need to finesse the puck a little more and hit the net, not the Wings. They either need the bad Osgood to show up for a few games or they need to learn how to beat him and the Wings at their own game. And they had better learn it quick! I knew they would have trouble with the Wings but I thought they would be better than this - this is disappointing. As one who believes in sports superstitions, I'm not wearing my new Pens t-shirt again. I've worn it twice and they lost both games.
One thing that would almost definitely help the Pens would be get some cheese to go with their whines ...
Thus far they've accused Osgood of diving (Hello, pot? This is kettle ... stop calling me black) and now the coach claims the Red Wings "cheat" by obstructing his players.
Yeah ... I'm sure that's it ... :shake:
MMouse6937
05-28-2008, 11:49 PM
Well at least the Pens came to the game tonight, that was pretty good non stop action. I do think the calls were a little soft and slanted towards the Pens, but that's ok, it's been the other way before.
That save Ozzie made where he reached behind him to grab the puck before it went over the line was OFF THE HOOK. That would have been HUGE highlight reel footage had they won. :number1:
I love the fact that the announcers actually praised Crosby for getting up and skating away when he was clocked middle ice. Like they were surprised he wasn't flailing out on the ice like he had just been shot, it was hysterical.
This series should get interesting now. Like I said, I never thought it would be a sweep, I just hope we can come back like we were in games 1 and 2. Crosby only scored on power plays, if he can do it full strength, then we got ourselves a series.
LETS GO WINGS!!!
PirateLover
05-29-2008, 06:02 PM
I love the fact that the announcers actually praised Crosby for getting up and skating away when he was clocked middle ice. Like they were surprised he wasn't flailing out on the ice like he had just been shot, it was hysterical.
Haha, I picked up on that as well.
From the category of being able to admit when I'm somewhat wrong, the second VS game pulled in the most viewers for the finals in 6 years. I say somewhat wrong because the ratings still aren't that great, all things considered, but at least they are up.
letsdoitagain
05-30-2008, 08:01 AM
I agree that there is too much whining...both sides just need to play it out. I hope the rest of the games are as exciting as game 3 was...and hopefully the pens will wins those too of course.:cool:
I do have one interesting question regarding the series. Why would Bettman wait 6 full days before starting the Finals and then start it on the same night the Pistons are playing in the Eastern Conference Finals :confused: That splits the Detroit market in half. The NBA has a set schedule no matter what happens Game 1 is played on X date. It wasn't a question of building availability for either of the teams playing. I guess it just shows what an Idiot he really is :shake:
kakn7294
05-30-2008, 11:04 PM
I do have one interesting question regarding the series. Why would Bettman wait 6 full days before starting the Finals and then start it on the same night the Pistons are playing in the Eastern Conference Finals :confused: That splits the Detroit market in half. The NBA has a set schedule no matter what happens Game 1 is played on X date. It wasn't a question of building availability for either of the teams playing. I guess it just shows what an Idiot he really is :shake:I wondered the same thing - and if I remember correctly, the Tigers were in town that night too - not that I expected a lot of people would be at that game with the 2 championship games being played, but still...:rolleyes:
MMouse6937
05-31-2008, 12:02 AM
I wondered the same thing - and if I remember correctly, the Tigers were in town that night too - not that I expected a lot of people would be at that game with the 2 championship games being played, but still...:rolleyes:
You could probably shoot a canon in Comerica Park and not hit anyone the way the Tigers have been playing lately. You're right about the game though, but being from Detroit I can tell you that the Wings were a bigger draw then the Pistons, but still I am sure there were people that were torn.
Looks like the Wings are just too much for the Penguins. I think Detroit will wrap it up at home in 5.
MMouse6937
05-31-2008, 11:21 PM
That's what I'm talking about!! WOO HOO!!! That game was incredible. Hank Zetterberg kept that game 2-1 by sticking his foot out on that Crosby attempt. Incredible!
My brother just called and they have tickets for game 5 :( Darn, I wish I was home right now. Trying to get into Stanley Cup hockey in Albuquerque really stinks.
LETS GO RED WINGS!
Oh good ... the Red Wings won ... yippee ...
alphamommy
06-01-2008, 02:53 PM
I do have one interesting question regarding the series. Why would Bettman wait 6 full days before starting the Finals and then start it on the same night the Pistons are playing in the Eastern Conference Finals :confused: That splits the Detroit market in half. The NBA has a set schedule no matter what happens Game 1 is played on X date. It wasn't a question of building availability for either of the teams playing. I guess it just shows what an Idiot he really is :shake:
I understand that the NBA has a set schedule. However, the NHL gets most of its TV market from CBC, and Hockey Night in Canada is set for 8:00 PM Saturday night. My guess is that the NHL aligned games 1 and 4 with the HNIC schedule.
Phew, last night made me feel a little better. I hope the Wings can close it out at home tomorrow!
Re: the NBA conflict:
Commish not happy with NBA conflict (http://www.fannation.com/truth_and_rumors/view/51696)
Posted: Sunday May 25, 2008 10:24AM ET
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged he isn't happy that three of the Detroit Red Wings' Stanley Cup final games will conflict with the Detroit Pistons' NBA Eastern Conference finals series against Boston, but he said the two leagues were hamstrung by commitments that could not be changed. Speaking at Joe Louis Arena before the first game of the final, Bettman said Saturday that while the NBA had indicated its schedule was "locked in concrete," the NHL had similarly rigid constraints with TV rights holders and building considerations.
MMouse6937
06-01-2008, 10:03 PM
Oh good ... the Red Wings won ... yippee ...
Sounds like some sour grapes to me. I thought you weren't interested in this thread now that your team was ELIMINATED!!
Can I send you Stanley Cup Champions tshirt straight from Hockeytown????? Maybe someday the Flyers will have one ;)
oh and btw.....LETS GO RED WINGS!!! WOO HOO!!!
letsdoitagain
06-04-2008, 06:55 AM
Game 5 was a nail bitter, but that's what the Red Wings get for getting cockey and planning their celebrations before the puck even dropped! It was good to see the Pens make the series respectable after that horrible start in the first two games.
Now its back to the Burgh for game six tonight! LET GO PENS!:number1:
WDWfanatic742
06-04-2008, 01:48 PM
Let's hope that the Pens can win tonight to make it an awesome Game 7. This next week or two is going to be perfect for the sports world with the NHL and NBA Championship's and the Belmont Stakes taking place Saturday.
indytraveler
06-04-2008, 10:50 PM
what a finish to the Stanley Cup. Thought Hossa's last effort went in until replay showed it wouldn't have counted anyway. Red Wings just too tough.
kakn7294
06-04-2008, 11:14 PM
Congrats to the Wings - they were the better team. The Pens inexperience really showed against them in this series. Oh well, there's always next year...
MMouse6937
06-04-2008, 11:18 PM
That was an awesome game, the Wings played hard! I felt really bad that Fleury knocked in that puck towards the end. That was real bad luck. He has to remember to always look behind him...always.
Hockeytown is celebrating tonight!! My brother's off to get my hat and my shirt and my rally towel, and and and !! :D
WAY TO GO WINGS!! :number1:
PirateLover
06-05-2008, 02:24 AM
Can I send you Stanley Cup Champions tshirt straight from Hockeytown????? Maybe someday the Flyers will have one ;)
You can send one to me ;) I actually have a friend that's a Red Wings fan.
Oh well, there's always next year...
Yea, next year... when the Flyers will finally win their 3rd cup!!!!! :)
Congrats to the Red Wings I guess... I actually stayed up to watch the 3 OT game hoping to see them win (as much as I dislike the Wings, I dislike the Pens more, plus I generally just enjoy watching the Stanley Cup ceremony). I was out tonight and missed it, but I saw some highlights. Kudos to the few Pens fans who stayed to watch the ceremony. I totally understand those who left, but it's still a once in a lifetime opportunity to see a team win a championship. I was at game 5 of the 2001 NBA finals when the Lakers won the championship against the 76ers. Hardly anyone left, we just wanted to continue cheering for our team that we were so proud of. Unfortunately, the league was so afraid of the Philly fans reputation that we were denied the opportunity of seeing the trophy and it was presented in the locker room :mad:
Congrats to the The Red Wings on a great season. I have to say watching any team win the Cup is an amazing experience. Even when it's not my team I can't help but feel the joy and emotions of the players. Well of course there was the 1994 Ranger exception to that rule ;)
Donald A
06-05-2008, 10:51 AM
I have grown to love the Penguins this year. I guess it is nice to have a mutual interest with my wife. I was involved in this playoff series as I was at game 5 with the NY Rangers when Marian Hossa clinched the series right in front of me in overtime. Then I had the opportunity to go to game 4 of the finals last Saturday. (It is a long drive from Indy but worth it).
The Red Wings were the better team ... barely. You can absolutely not take anything away from the Penguins. If they would not have started the series as flat as they did and if Malkin would have peaked before last night, and if, and if, and if. I guess that is how sports work.
Part of me says that Crosby, Malkin, Staal, and Fleury now have the experience under their belt to try again. BUT, the other part of me is heartbroken that in the world of salary caps players come and go. There are too many stars on the Penguins to keep everyone. For instance Hossa will probably leave. Pittsburgh just can not afford him. That is hard because Crosby and Hossa played so well together.
Oh well, it is only a sport. Congrads to the Red Wings!
alphamommy
06-05-2008, 11:49 AM
I just got back from buying our hats, shirts, etc.
DH got DD up with about 2 minutes left in the Monday game, which I thought was a bad idea (I'm VERY sports superstitious). Sure enough, the Pens scored the goal with 34 seconds left. Last night, we waited until it was all over before we got DD up. We were recording everything on our DVR, so DH backed up to the last minute of the game and let her watch that, the cup presentation, etc.
What a great year to be going to the Hockey Hall of Fame for part of our vacation!
letsdoitagain
06-05-2008, 06:07 PM
Hats off to the Red Wings. You out played the pens and schooled them on what they need to do to win the cup next year.;) The Wings reign supreme and the Pens should feel no shame for comming this far.
DizneyFreak2002
06-05-2008, 10:24 PM
Congrats to the Red Wings... They truly deserved the Stanley Cup... I only watched the last two games, and wow, what a team they are....
MMouse6937
06-05-2008, 11:26 PM
All I have to say is I'm very disappointed in the way the Pens fans reacted after they lost. I can understand being upset that your team lost, but to boo Henrik Zetterberg as he was receiving the Con Smythe was just wrong. You at least acknowledge the acheivement even if it didn't turn out the way that you wanted it to. It's over, the better team won, at least have some respect, very disappointing. There is more respect from Pens fans in this thread then there was at the game that night. Sad.
But, on lighter terms, my hat and shirt and program and rally towel are on their way. My SIL was at the sporting goods store and on the phone with me at 6:30 this morning taking my order so she could get everything we wanted. We have a locker room hat and shirt and a rally towel and program from game 4 and a regular red tshirt that has a little winged wheel and a little Stanley Cup! Can't wait for it to get here...I'll be decked out!! :number1:
PirateLover
06-06-2008, 12:20 AM
All I have to say is I'm very disappointed in the way the Pens fans reacted after they lost. I can understand being upset that your team lost, but to boo Henrik Zetterberg as he was receiving the Con Smythe was just wrong. You at least acknowledge the acheivement even if it didn't turn out the way that you wanted it to. It's over, the better team won, at least have some respect, very disappointing. There is more respect from Pens fans in this thread then there was at the game that night. Sad.
Wow. Like I said I didn't see the ceremony live so I missed all of that. All I saw were a few fans left in the crowd as the announcers talked over the highlights. That's kinda sad.
kakn7294
06-06-2008, 03:37 AM
I was at work so I didn't see most of the game and I didn't see any of the ceremony but if it's true that my fellow Pittsburgh fans boo'd, then I'm disappointed in them as well. However, a local new station is reporting that they received a letter from a Detroit resident and Red Wings fan who complimented the Pittsburgh fans on their behavior when the Wings won. He says he was watching on tv and that the Pittsburgh fans stayed to watch the ceremony and even cheered for the Wings during the presentations.
brownie
06-06-2008, 09:53 AM
I'm hoping to get my championship hat today!
As far as fans booing, I didn't notice any of that watching the game. I watched it on CBC, but from what I saw and heard the Pittsburgh fans were cheering for the presentations of the trophies. I thought it was pretty classy that so most of them stayed for the trophy presentations.
MMouse6937
06-06-2008, 10:46 AM
I had to watch on NBC since I'm out West, but I heard it, and my brother and SIL that watched it locally said they heard it too. It was a huge booing uproar, but enough that you could tell they were not being respectful. It was just slightly disappointing, but doesn't change anything, and I don't think Henrik noticed at all!! :D
Fans Booing is considered a compliment in the NY area ;)
Donald A
06-06-2008, 05:43 PM
I was at Stanley Cup final game number 4 last Staurday. Yes there was booing. Some of these people spend a lot of money on their tickets (face value on mine was $250) and you will have booing. Heck, I went 300 miles each way from Indy and stayed in a hotel for a hockey game. Fans have passion. My wife was down and is still down after the loss of the series.
As painful as it was, I watched Game 6 Wednesday night. I thought that all-in-all the fans were respectful. The loudest booing I heard was directed at Gary Bettman. He is not thought of as the smartest pro-sports commish. In every sport you will have fans who do not represent their cities or team well. Fans also have different levels of respect. I remember when I was at a NJ Devils - Pens game and the Pens went up several goals and Martin Brodeur was pulled and skated to the tunnel a few seats away. The fans lost it and booed. My thoughts were that he was getting pulled and losing bad why rub it in. What goes around comes around. Plus I had more respect for this future HOF goaltender than to boo him.
MMouse6937
06-06-2008, 06:44 PM
I understand your point, but I see things differently from booing at a regular season game, chanting the opposing goalies name when he lets in a goal, etc to booing the receipients of the highest honor in the NHL. Once the season is over, the battle has been fought, the cup has been won, there's a certain amount of respect that should be shown to the winning "Champions". I just didn't get that in Pitts. Maybe, and rightfully so, I was looking at it from a different angle, the Wing angle, but I know we have lost playoff series/Stanley Cups in Detroit and I just don't remember it being that way. It's somewhat awkward I think to win that last game away from home anyways, it just doesn't look good to boo. I would expect Pens fans to have more class, that's all, now Colorado fans, I don't expect much, and they certainly deliver. :D It's just you expect more from a old time hockey city like Pitts.
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