Washington Capitals Fan Forum
Talk about Capitals hockey & more! => Washington Capitals & Other Hockey Discussion => Topic started by: DC_1908 on Tuesday June 19, 2018, 12:37:50 PM Eastern
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Well the offseason begins:
Mike Hoffman gets traded to San Jose, who trades him to Florida. . . .
(https://www.nhl.com/news/mike-hoffman-traded-by-ottawa-senators/c-299109412?tid=278542340)
Seems fairly simple . . .
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This one shocked me:
Max Domi to Hans for Alex Gaichenyuk (https://www.nhl.com/news/alex-galchenyuk-traded-to-coyotes-by-canadiens-for-max-domi/c-299084472?tid=278542340)
Rather sucks as I'd like to Domi here or with The Wings (even if this dad was an asshole)
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This is a good thread idea, DC, because things figure to be happening regarding the Caps in the not-too-distant future.
The first big domino is signing Carlson, or if he isn't resigned, what is done to fill the huge hole he would leave behind.
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Latest word is cap will be between 79.5 and 80 mil. Caps current cap hit is 62,901,790.
So... about 16-17 mil in space.
It's gonna be close but the cap going up this much helps. I really won't be so sad if Carlson walks but it leaves a big hole and I'm not sure who you fill it with. Bieksa? Or a trade?
I get the feeling Carlson isn't too worried about staying. And if he's looking for 8mil plus I don't think I'm interested. I look forward to OV or Willy lighting his ass up in the corner. ;D
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And it didnt take Barry very long:
Trotz to NYI (https://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/barry-trotz-to-be-named-islanders-head-coach-source-says-1.19342174)
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I read a thing yesterday that said the salary cap for this season should be just about $80 mil
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And it didnt take Barry very long:
Trotz to NYI (https://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/barry-trotz-to-be-named-islanders-head-coach-source-says-1.19342174)
I never thought Ted was cheap before now.
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Well heres something else interesting:
Bylsma hired as assistant for the Red Wings (https://www.nhl.com/news/dan-bylsma-hired-as-assistant-by-detroit/c-299181034)
Heh if that aint the "writing on the wall' for Blash, i don't know what is.
Blash has held on after not only missing the playoffs, but missing it twice back to back. While I didn't think anyone is saying it's "all on him", . . .he isnt winning many popularity contests.
The Wings will be an interesting watch this summer. The last two drafts have been great, and their AHL team was solid, they have almost 20 mil cap space but a lot of RFAs to sign. . .
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Hooks and Grubby for a second (https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/capitals-acquire-second-round-pick-in-the-2018-nhl-draft-from-colorado/c-299189244)
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Halpy gets promoted in Tampa (https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.foxsports.com/florida/story/tampa-bay-lightning-name-jeff-halpern-assistant-coach-062218%3famp=true)
Great for Halpy!!
On a personal note: How the fuck does two of my all time favorites end up as GM and now coach for a team I should hate, but cant.
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Honestly, I wouldn't mind seeing Orpik here another year or two. The Caps are gonna need the D, and they might be able to do it on the cheap.
https://www.mrt.com/sports/article/AP-source-Avalanche-put-Orpik-on-buyout-waivers-13020131.php
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Me too. He was our most physical d-man and you could tell, by team-play and overall success-rate, when he was on the ice or when he was injured. But the thing that kind of struck me funny was if you go back and watch his interview right after he held the cup; he looked absolutely worn-out. I mean he was happy but something just seemed off or different from everyone else - so, in a way, I wasn't surprised. I know my boy DC is not a fan, but our D has been better since he was here. Unless we replace him in-kind, our D is going to suffer.
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The rumor this morning is Caps and Carlson are close to a deal at 8 for 8. Both of which are too much
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The rumor this morning is Caps and Carlson are close to a deal at 8 for 8. Both of which are too much
Looks like it’s done ::)
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The rumor this morning is Caps and Carlson are close to a deal at 8 for 8. Both of which are too much
I think the OEL contract influenced negotiations. Now there is an overrated dman.
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OK ... before people totally lose their minds over the Carlson contract - breath, pump the breaks and think for a minute. First off, Carlson has been pretty consistent in getting better for the Caps. He's not a goon but he is good, if not damn good, in about all aspects of the game. And lastly, look at the market. He just finished a season that had him lead the entire league in points - both regular season and playoffs. And while not great comparisons (b/c they all play different games) he will be making less and a 200K more than Hedman or a million more than Doughty's old contract (and if you don't think Doughty will make more than 8 million on his next contract, you're fooling yourself). The duration is merely a "you're ours until you retire or we sell you like we did Orpik". Would I have like 7mil/6yrs ... of course, but that's just not reality. And with this contract, we only had to dip into the budget for one million ... leaving a good deal for the rest of the guys we need/want to resign and maybe a solid UFA.
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Looks like Relrdon is officially the new coach
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Yep...
https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/capitals-name-todd-reirden-head-coach/c-299340814 (https://www.nhl.com/capitals/news/capitals-name-todd-reirden-head-coach/c-299340814)
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And word is that Snoopy won't be back. Maybe heading to the Canucks.
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12.6 left in cap space. Plenty for Wilson and Beagle. If not Beags then there is room to bring in some salary in D I guess.
LeBrun is reporting that the Caps are one of the teams that has been talking to Orpik's people.
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And word is that Snoopy won't be back. Maybe heading to the Canucks.
If we don’t get him, I hope he goes to Detroit, he’ll be more appreciated and valued and successful there. He and Glenndanzig would be an awesome combo, or he’d be nasty with Abelkiller.
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While I really want Beags back ... it would open up room for O'Brien. And if you remember from last summer, the only thing he didn't do was find space to actually get onto the 1st team.
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While I really want Beags back ... it would open up room for O'Brien. And if you remember from last summer, the only thing he didn't do was find space to actually get onto the 1st team.
I'd love to see LOB get a chance - but... Players of his sort don't seem to get much of a chance. It would be nice to see both he and Lewington skate with the big club. We'd get a whole lot tougher.
Rick Dhaliwal (https://twitter.com/DhaliwalSports/status/1012845273687646208)[/size][/font][/size]: The Canucks are still in on Jay Beagle, but with so many other teams interested, the price and term keeps increasing.[/color]
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Stephen Whyno: The Red Wings have signed pending free agent defenseman Mike Green to a two-year extension worth $10.75 million, a $5.375 million salary cap hit.
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Well Beagle is gone and I'm OK with that. He took the money and ran. I think he got more than what he is worth. I wouldn't pay that contract for a 100 foot player.
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Well Beagle is gone and I'm OK with that. He took the money and ran. I think he got more than what he is worth. I wouldn't pay that contract for a 100 foot player.
For that kind of money, I'd let him go too. There are players that deserve chances like that and Beagle has been one those for us. He's been here through the thick and thin and did everything that was asked of him. He's 32, so this 4 year deal is probably going to be his last and it has the Calgary-native going back west, so all I can do is wish the guy the best of luck on a rebuilding team.
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Paul Stastny to Vegas .... 3 yrs / $ 6.5 million per. Man, looking back, our deal to keep Nicky long term was an absolute steal.
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Absolutely right, '71. Bravo for Beags - no matter how bummed I am, selfishly, about losing our stud 4th line Pivot. And make no mistake - he was absolutely a stud on that 4th line, at the Dot, and in PK situations. As we all know. Stephenson has big skates to fill. I'm thinking he can and wishing him the best.
Paul Stastny to Vegas .... 3 yrs / $ 6.5 million per. Man, looking back, our deal to keep Nicky long term was an absolute steal.
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Paul Stastny to Vegas .... 3 yrs / $ 6.5 million per. Man, looking back, our deal to keep Nicky long term was an absolute steal.
More than I think he is worth.
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Tavares going to the Leafs. Van Riemsdyk to Phily.
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Tavares to his home town Leafs. Damn, they are going to be our most formidable foe in the season ahead. Wow!
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Stastny and Bozak to man Center Ice roles for the Knights. I felt our superiority at the pivot was the biggest reason we beat them.
Ironic that McPhee, who essentially dicked around for ages at the pivot position after Backstrom, has finally 'gotten it' - both in terms of loading up 'down the middle' and in working free agency. Our Cup Title would have happened years ago had McPhee a) participated smartly in FA (as Mac does); b) fixed our 2C and 3C issues; and c) hired / paid a veteran HC like Trotz (although rumor has it Leonsis and Patrick were the obstacles there). Oh, and held on to Forsberg.
Tavares going to the Leafs. Van Riemsdyk to Phily. Bozak to the Knighs. Perron to the Blues.
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Bozak AND Perron go to the Blues after they lose Stastney (during last season) and Brodziak (to the Oil).
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I had it wrong in my earlier post (now edited below) as I thought I heard the NHL Network coverage say Bozak was going to be a Knight. Clearly, that was wrong as Bozak is now a member of the Blues.
Stastny to man Center Ice for the Knights - may replace William Karlson on their top line. I felt our superiority at the pivot was the biggest reason we beat them.
Ironic that McPhee, who essentially dicked around for ages at the pivot position after Backstrom, has finally 'gotten it' - both in terms of loading up 'down the middle' and in working free agency. Our Cup Title would have happened years ago had McPhee a) participated smartly in FA (as Mac does); b) fixed our 2C and 3C issues; and c) hired / paid a veteran HC like Trotz (although rumor has it Leonsis and Patrick were the obstacles there). Oh, and held on to Forsberg.
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Well Beagle is gone and I'm OK with that. He took the money and ran. I think he got more than what he is worth. I wouldn't pay that contract for a 100 foot player.
Maaco - I wrote a response to this post and then decided to delete it. Let's just stay on the high road and maybe you can wish him well. I started another post about Beagle and what I thought he brought to the team.
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Maaco - I wrote a response to this post and then decided to delete it. Let's just stay on the high road and maybe you can wish him well. I started another post about Beagle and what I thought he brought to the team.
There isn't anything that takes us to the low-road by commenting on his contract. You will be hard pressed to find someone on this board who doesn't respect/appreciate everything Jay Beagle did for this franchise. We all loved him, we all commented on how Trotz made the montra of this team work like Jay Beagle works.
But in no world can our cap constrained team afford $3 mill per year for him. Good on Beagle for leveraging the market, and the demand for quality depth players to let the bidding war bump his contract up. But the moment he became worth more than $2 mill we were completely out of the running. We have so much cap tied to other players, that it just can't make sense to pay Beagle that much for us.
Ultimately that is a tough contract, as much as I love Beagle I feel like some of that for the Canucks is just so they can begin a culture change surrounding their newer younger core. It's a smart move on that front, for a team that has the cap to be able to afford to do that. But contenders can't pay fourth liners that kind of salary no matter how talented/hard working/good they are. It's a bummer since the intangibles Beagle brought absolutely need to be replaced for him.
Obviously we all wish him best of luck in Vancouver.
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I agree that we couldn’t keep him at that level and for that term. I think we got lucky for the last five years as he was a bargain for what he brought to the team. I’m glad for him that he is getting paid after he got his name on the Cup!
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Jack Johnson to the Pens amid some fireworks 5 x 3.25... https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/blue-jackets-john-tortorella-rips-jack-johnson-penguins-gm/
Man, I hope this blows up in Rutherford's face...
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Neal to the Flames - 5 x 5.75.
Good riddance.
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Per Bruce Garrioch concerning Erik Karlsson:
"Among the teams that are believed to be interested include the Vegas Golden Knights, Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Capitals and New York Rangers."
Holy hell. Word is he is looking for a Doughty-like contract... This would mean some major salary being traded out...
According to NHL Numbers, Caps have almost 12.7 mil in space - with Wilson to sign... Ship out Burt(3mil) and Bowey(RFA)? Burt and Karllson are 65s...
Or would it be Carlson? RNMB did report that the Cps were making a push to trade for him before the trade deadline and that Carlson was in play... Is he really worth 11 mill?
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Per Bruce Garrioch concerning Erik Karlsson:
"Among the teams that are believed to be interested include the Vegas Golden Knights, Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Capitals and New York Rangers."
Holy hell. Word is he is looking for a Doughty-like contract... This would mean some major salary being traded out...
According to NHL Numbers, Caps have almost 12.7 mil in space - with Wilson to sign... Ship out Burt(3mil) and Bowey(RFA)? Burt and Karllson are 65s...
Or would it be Carlson? RNMB did report that the Cps were making a push to trade for him before the trade deadline and that Carlson was in play... Is he really worth 11 mill?
Yeah I don't know if we could afford a contract extension with EK, but we were also in play on him even during trade rumors last year. It was clear our GM and team valued EK. I personally like EK, and would be happy to see him come to this team. But I have no idea how we keep him beyond this season. He's only at 6 or 6.5 this season, so he'd be a fine "rental" for a season. But not if we pay the price of trading players at such a high value that he isn't a rental. Stars are the frontrunners for him, but who knows with BMGM. I highly doubt we'd sign JC to a huge extension just to trade him for EK. But who knows right, there was no NMC in JC's contract and if Ottawa is looking for return on investment with EK and we can negotiate an extension in advance for EK?
It's a weird situation. All I knew based on rumors even before know is that we absolutely had interest in EK.
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I have a feeling if we made a trade for Karlsson and gave him a big contract Somme fans might be disappointed. He isn't a great 2 way defence man. And he doesnt like the physical play. Members here complain about Carlson then they would likely not be happy with Karlsson. Our Carlson is better defensively, a better penalty killer and is physically stronger. They are pretty even on the pp.
He will get a big payday for someone who doesnt always put in the effort in the defensive zone. I think he us a risky player.
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The Caps have handcuffed themselves in the salary cap, again
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I have a feeling if we made a trade for Karlsson and gave him a big contract Somme fans might be disappointed. He isn't a great 2 way defence man. And he doesnt like the physical play. Members here complain about Carlson then they would likely not be happy with Karlsson. Our Carlson is better defensively, a better penalty killer and is physically stronger. They are pretty even on the pp.
He will get a big payday for someone who doesnt always put in the effort in the defensive zone. I think he us a risky player.
I agree. If anything we need more toughness on the blue line.
Today the Caps aren't being mentioned as in on him so... whew.
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Ummm - how are you handcuffed, per se, if you're the DEFENDING FLIPPING CUP CHAMPS??! I'm sorry, but I have to say "nice work, Front Office, in building a helluva championship club. Leave no stone unturned - pay any price, bear any burden. Yes?"
You gotta pay and play to win, at least in my book.
I'll take being 'cap strapped' so long as Reirden continues to live up to his reputation for developing players. Burakovsky and Vrana have barely scratched the surface of what their talents will allow them to be. Imagine if one or both becomes a consistent player with maturity in '18 - '19. Wouldn't that be grand?
The Caps have handcuffed themselves in the salary cap, again
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Ummm - how are you handcuffed, per se, if you're the DEFENDING FLIPPING CUP CHAMPS??! I'm sorry, but I have to say "nice work, Front Office, in building a helluva championship club. Leave no stone unturned - pay any price, bear any burden. Yes?"
You gotta pay and play to win, at least in my book.
I'll take being 'cap strapped' so long as Reirden continues to live up to his reputation for developing players. Burakovsky and Vrana have barely scratched the surface of what their talents will allow them to be. Imagine if one or both becomes a consistent player with maturity in '18 - '19. Wouldn't that be grand?
Exactly. I am looking for big years from both Vrana and Burakovsky. I think Reirden will get the most out of them. BTW, there is no way the Caps are in on Karlsson at this point in time.
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Ummm - how are you handcuffed, per se, if you're the DEFENDING FLIPPING CUP CHAMPS??! I'm sorry, but I have to say "nice work, Front Office, in building a helluva championship club. Leave no stone unturned - pay any price, bear any burden. Yes?"
You gotta pay and play to win, at least in my book.
I'll take being 'cap strapped' so long as Reirden continues to live up to his reputation for developing players. Burakovsky and Vrana have barely scratched the surface of what their talents will allow them to be. Imagine if one or both becomes a consistent player with maturity in '18 - '19. Wouldn't that be grand?
the reality the ”core” of the team as a whole making 180 term in style was only the last seven games, not the 99 games.
To expect that the last 7 to be the new norm, if not anymore than anomaly with low chances of repeating, while easy to do is simply ridiculous.
There is simply not strong enough data for the Eurokids for anything more than “hope”
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the reality the ”core” of the team as a whole making 180 term in style was only the last seven games, not the 99 games.
To expect that the last 7 to be the new norm, if not anymore than anomaly with low chances of repeating, while easy to do is simply ridiculous.
There is simply not strong enough data for the Eurokids for anything more than “hope”
I completely disagree with your assessment. You are basically saying that we played a handful of good games at the end of the season. If that was the case we wouldn't have won our division. We wouldn't even have made the playoffs. We had our ups and downs during the season but we played our best hockey at the end. You know DC even with the success of the Caps this year you still find something to complain about. I'm sure you would be happier with a team full of guys that could fight but couldn't play hockey. You need an assortment of role players to have a successful team.
Your ideal roster would probably be better suited for UFCthan hockey.
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I completely disagree with your assessment. You are basically saying that we played a handful of good games at the end of the season. If that was the case we wouldn't have won our division. We wouldn't even have made the playoffs. We had our ups and downs during the season but we played our best hockey at the end. You know DC even with the success of the Caps this year you still find something to complain about. I'm sure you would be happier with a team full of guys that could fight but couldn't play hockey. You need an assortment of role players to have a successful team.
Your ideal roster would probably be better suited for UFCthan hockey.
you do recall you saying and agreeing “we where a better team without Bura” and the same with Varana during the playoffs, and regular season?
how is 6-7 games enough to change that?
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Frankly, I disagree with you - by a lot.
Since the trade deadline and Kempny's insertion into the lineup, we started playing way better. Then the switch to Holtby in the postseason and we took off. Last 7 games my arse. Sorry brush - we're a lot better than you're claiming. But next year is a new year - and they have to earn it. So we shall see.
the reality the ”core” of the team as a whole making 180 term in style was only the last seven games, not the 99 games.
To expect that the last 7 to be the new norm, if not anymore than anomaly with low chances of repeating, while easy to do is simply ridiculous.
There is simply not strong enough data for the Eurokids for anything more than “hope”
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Frankly, I disagree with you - by a lot.
Since the trade deadline and Kempny's insertion into the lineup, we started playing way better. Then the switch to Holtby in the postseason and we took off. Last 7 games my arse. Sorry brush - we're a lot better than you're claiming. But next year is a new year - and they have to earn it. So we shall see.
Well disagree all you want. . .but you are right about one thing, next year will be next year. We are no longer the “freebie” playoff round and play failures that every team looked over. In fact, there is a target on our necks.
Then also factor in a roster with a history of major attitude, hockey IQ. and professionalism issues that somehow won a Cup. . .that is a recipe for over-confidence, arrogance, and entitlement added to the above issues.
We should expect next season to way be harder than any in the Ovie-era
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Well disagree all you want. . .but you are right about one thing, next year will be next year. We are no longer the “freebie” playoff round and play failures that every team looked over. In fact, there is a target on our necks.
Then also factor in a roster with a history of major attitude, hockey IQ. and professionalism issues that somehow won a Cup. . .that is a recipe for over-confidence, arrogance, and entitlement added to the above issues.
We should expect next season to way be harder than any in the Ovie-era
The expectations weren't as high this year by most people. I was one of the few people that remained optimistic. I'm not saying I thought they would win but I always thought they would be a contender. Everyone seemed so concerned about the players we lost. Shittenkirk, the name says it all. Alzner, unfortunately his game regressed since the injuries. It was time for him to go. Johansson, big deal, another soft under achiever, Justin Williams, Mr game 7 my ass. He wasnt very clutch for us in the playoffs. Always thought he was overrated. Winnick, who? The only decent guy we lost was Schmidt and he isn't as good as everyone here makes him out to be.
Expectations will be higher next season and with the parody in the league it is difficult to repeat. They arent even guaranteed to make the playoffs.
BTW I do like the same type of players that you do but I admit that teams still need there scorers and puck moving dmen. Actually puck moving dmen have become a very important part of the game. I dont even look at it as generating offense. I look at as maintaining possession of the puck while getting it out if the zone. This was an area that Alzner struggled with. If I had my way we would have forwards that played like Bergeron and Kopitar with 2 or 3 guys like Wilson. And the dcore would be guys like Weber, Hedman and Doughty. And a younger Kronwall would be a nice fit on the left side.
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Yes - they will be the hunted.
But I disagree with your characterizations of the roster / team. Whatever, my good man - we agree to disagree. Just realize I'm 57 and have been a diehard since the franchise opener when we had it handed to us by the Rags 6 - 3 in the old MSG. I've NEVER seen the Caps play as this team did in most of those 16 wins required to hoist Lord Stanley's Cup - against a flipping Murderer's Row of Goaltenders, btw.
I think Reirden was right - when he came from Pittsburgh, he saw the Caps as a dangerous, uber talented squad of individuals. One that didn't play all that well together as a team. By the 4th year, this past Spring, they finally figured it out and played to their potential and beyond. You make it sound like it was a lucky run. I'm here to tell you it's the toughest trophy to score in North American team sports. And they beat tremendous teams all along the way. And dominated in several games.
Are you a fan of the Caps or another team? Because I swear you post like a Pens' fan in this thread who just lost his woman to Ovi! LET's GO CAPS!!
Well disagree all you want. . .but you are right about one thing, next year will be next year. We are no longer the “freebie” playoff round and play failures that every team looked over. In fact, there is a target on our necks.
Then also factor in a roster with a history of major attitude, hockey IQ. and professionalism issues that somehow won a Cup. . .that is a recipe for over-confidence, arrogance, and entitlement added to the above issues.
We should expect next season to way be harder than any in the Ovie-era
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Yes - they will be the hunted.
But I disagree with your characterizations of the roster / team. Whatever, my good man - we agree to disagree. Just realize I'm 57 and have been a diehard since the franchise opener when we had it handed to us by the Rags 6 - 3 in the old MSG. I've NEVER seen the Caps play as this team did in most of those 16 wins required to hoist Lord Stanley's Cup - against a flipping Murderer's Row of Goaltenders, btw.
I think Reirden was right - when he came from Pittsburgh, he saw the Caps as a dangerous, uber talented squad of individuals. One that didn't play all that well together as a team. By the 4th year, this past Spring, they finally figured it out and played to their potential and beyond. You make it sound like it was a lucky run. I'm here to tell you it's the toughest trophy to score in North American team sports. And they beat tremendous teams all along the way. And dominated in several games.
Are you a fan of the Caps or another team? Because I swear you post like a Pens' fan in this thread who just lost his woman to Ovi! LET's GO CAPS!!
To be fair to DC, he wasn't implying it was all a "lucky run." If you read his posts he is more implying that other teams took us lightly due to years of disappointment. He's not wrong. Both Pitt and Tampa in particular had a vibe of "of course the Caps will choke" to their play style. They weren't playing as hungry as they usually do because they under estimated their opponent. That isn't something we are going to be given the benefit of the doubt on this season.
That isn't to say our boys didn't out work them, they did. It's more, us out working them as hard as we did in the playoffs and not letting the bounces affect us like we usually do began to stun them, those two teams in particular. We've always had good playoff hustle, but we let the momentum swings get to us. So teams would just let us dominate sections of games in the playoffs, wait for the momentum to swing and capitalize. But when this season, the Caps would just push and push and push, and if the momentum swung we'd push again. It stunned teams. They finally saw that we had our big boy jock straps on and were ready to take playoff hockey to another level.
But make no mistake, we can shit talk them all we want but the Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning are right up there with us this season as top contenders from the Eastern Conference. Now that they realize we can get it done, it won't just be about pushing on and not letting momentum swings get to us. If we find ourselves in a series with either of those two teams next year, it's going to be some of the most competitive playoff hockey you've ever seen. Trust me. And in that regard, I think DC's ultimate point is that we can't take that for granted. We can't assume just because we did it before it'll come to us again. It's going to take another elevation, another finding of a gear.
However I absolutely think we have the personnel, coaching staff, and mental fortitude to push ourselves into that gear. But just because we have the capacity doesn't mean it'll happen. I agree with DC in regards to the argument that next season is going to be one of the toughest in the Ovie era. It absolutely will be. Forget just a target in the playoffs, it's going to be a hell of a battle just to get there in my estimation.
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With Toronto getting Tavares I think they will be the team to beat next season in the Eastern conference. I agree next season will be a tough one for the Caps and that is why I think it is critical that Burakovsky and Vrana have big years. They both need to score 20 plus goals I think if we are going to have a successfull season.
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you do recall you saying and agreeing “we where a better team without Bura” and the same with Varana during the playoffs, and regular season?
how is 6-7 games enough to change that?
Yes I do think we are a better team with out Burakovsky. And I am not high on players like Vrana and Connolly. Every team has their weaknesses. On the back end I'm not a fan of Djoos.
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Frankly, I disagree with you - by a lot.
Since the trade deadline and Kempny's insertion into the lineup, we started playing way better. Then the switch to Holtby in the postseason and we took off. Last 7 games my arse. Sorry brush - we're a lot better than you're claiming. But next year is a new year - and they have to earn it. So we shall see.
A lot of people are praising Kempny. He played well down the stretch and in the playoffs but I am still not entirely sold on him. He doesnt have a lot if playing time in the NHL. Remember before we got him he was often a healthy scratch for the Blackhawks. A team that wasnt even good enough to make the playoffs. He looked out of place the first few games here as well. In fact he was bad the first half dozen games or so.
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With Toronto getting Tavares I think they will be the team to beat next season in the Eastern conference. I agree next season will be a tough one for the Caps and that is why I think it is critical that Burakovsky and Vrana have big years. They both need to score 20 plus goals I think if we are going to have a successfull season.
Im not convinced that Tavares puts Toronto over the top. He couldn't carry the Islanders anywhere. It wasnt like the Islanders had no talent. They just didnt play defense. Some of that was personnel but some was coaching. Not an ideal situation for Trotz. Losing your star player right after you get there.
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Yes - they will be the hunted.
But I disagree with your characterizations of the roster / team. Whatever, my good man - we agree to disagree. Just realize I'm 57 and have been a diehard since the franchise opener when we had it handed to us by the Rags 6 - 3 in the old MSG. I've NEVER seen the Caps play as this team did in most of those 16 wins required to hoist Lord Stanley's Cup - against a flipping Murderer's Row of Goaltenders, btw.
I think Reirden was right - when he came from Pittsburgh, he saw the Caps as a dangerous, uber talented squad of individuals. One that didn't play all that well together as a team. By the 4th year, this past Spring, they finally figured it out and played to their potential and beyond. You make it sound like it was a lucky run. I'm here to tell you it's the toughest trophy to score in North American team sports. And they beat tremendous teams all along the way. And dominated in several games.
Are you a fan of the Caps or another team? Because I swear you post like a Pens' fan in this thread who just lost his woman to Ovi! LET's GO CAPS!!
Well The Hens fans have had multiple hate threads about me on their boards for bullying their trolls on the old site, and I was one of the ones that started this board and got everyone over here, so no, not a Hens fan . . .
8)
While we should certainly enjoy the Cup, we or some us most remain pragmatic about the team, and how the Cup was won.
While Devise summed up a main point, we must also keep in mind that in this Cup High, it is easy to forget or bluff off the low points simply by winning the fourth round, then saying the team is that great because they won the fourth round. Then to assume this is the team we will have going forward. This is where most are going.
All while practically everyone, had this team written off. While it makes for great drama, "over coming adversity", "no one believed in us" etc., there still comes the question: Where did this come from?
While all Cup winners loose games in the playoffs, not many looked as god-awful and as frequently awful as The Caps did in some of their losses in the playoffs or in this regular season. . .you can go through the GDT threads on here and witness the people who saw theses terrible factors repeatedly and wrote the team off?
When it comes to these negative issues, the snapshot of the last 6-7 games and winning the fourth, simply cannot erase a series of consistent negatives over the long term.
So yes by all means enjoy the Cup. But be weary not to let it dismiss, or use to use it to justify the long term issues of this team and franchise, and/or assume they are resolved.
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>>snip<<
Are you a fan of the Caps or another team? Because I swear you post like a Pens' fan in this thread who just lost his woman to Ovi! LET's GO CAPS!!
It's more like a Pens fan that lost her man to Cynde :lol: :rofl: ;D
and DC is also a big fan of Detroit, which hasn't really been a conflict of interest until a couple years ago when they were moved to the East. But I've got no problem with it. I'm not realy a fan of any other hockey team, even though mom used to tell me my first words were Bobby Orr. Which I don't doubt, dad is the type that would do that just to mess with mom. I was born on the north side of Chicago, as such my second baseball team is the Cubs, although I find Maddon highly annoying.
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Deadline for Wilson to file for arbitration was 5:00 today. Nothing reported so far. Caps deadline to file is 5:00 tomorrow.
LOB did file.
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Well The Hens fans have had multiple hate threads about me on their boards for bullying their trolls on the old site, and I was one of the ones that started this board and got everyone over here, so no, not a Hens fan . . .
8)
While we should certainly enjoy the Cup, we or some us most remain pragmatic about the team, and how the Cup was won.
While Devise summed up a main point, we must also keep in mind that in this Cup High, it is easy to forget or bluff off the low points simply by winning the fourth round, then saying the team is that great because they won the fourth round. Then to assume this is the team we will have going forward. This is where most are going.
All while practically everyone, had this team written off. While it makes for great drama, "over coming adversity", "no one believed in us" etc., there still comes the question: Where did this come from?
While all Cup winners loose games in the playoffs, not many looked as god-awful and as frequently awful as The Caps did in some of their losses in the playoffs or in this regular season. . .you can go through the GDT threads on here and witness the people who saw theses terrible factors repeatedly and wrote the team off?
When it comes to these negative issues, the snapshot of the last 6-7 games and winning the fourth, simply cannot erase a series of consistent negatives over the long term.
So yes by all means enjoy the Cup. But be weary not to let it dismiss, or use to use it to justify the long term issues of this team and franchise, and/or assume they are resolved.
Absolutely, I think there is not that many people in here looking at next season through rose colored glasses. I do think an argument can be made though that there are some players in particular who you haven't gotten off your shit list, who were good for more than just a fourth round, or the last 7 games. Who even with lower expectations heading into the season, a lot of us were arguing were playoff guys, were capable of producing for us when it mattered, and showed throughout tenure here to be some of our leaders.
Obviously you've shown Beagle and Willy love. But even as far as seasons ago plenty of us here were praising the likes of Oshie, Eller, Nisky, and Orpik. All players you've been critical of at times, and all who have shown nothing but heart for this organization since joining. Period. Like again I totally get the argument that as a team we played at a higher level than normal the last couple rounds. However these players in particular deserve to get lumped in with the Beagles, Willies and DSP's of the world because they often showed up every year in the playoffs, and every season. It was the rest of the team buying in that put us over the hump, but we still had a hard working, determined smaller group that started really trying to build something here.
That, and only that is a reason I have some hope heading into next season. We still have enough of those faces, and now we can see for real if their mentality finally did wear off on the rest of the group to the point that we continue to be a top playoff team for years to come. At least under the Ovie era. I think we have that potential for sure. Even if I don't have my expectations set high again, simply due to size/the rest of the league improving and us being strapped. Also losing Beags hurt greatly.
But off-season is still early yet, plenty of time for BMGM to try to make some more noise and impress us.
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Corney signed with a team Swiss League HC Lugano.. Our chances for a repeat have been dashed...
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I saw the Pens being tired after trying to defend their Cup a 3rd time - and Murray mortal in net. And for once, we were simply better than Pittsburgh - unlike the prior 2 seasons where I felt they were clearly better, despite our 'President's Trophies.'
But we crushed the Bolts those last 2 games, fair and square. No way were they overconfident / did they look past us.
I think what the Caps just accomplished is one of the most significant team sport accomplishments one will ever witness. No team in North America in any sport was better known for being uber talented, uber chokers. This Cup win is on a par with the Sox and Cubs ending their respective 'curses' in MLB. Perhaps Philly in the NFL as well.
They so earned it, slaying dragons all along the way.
I was just teasing about Ovi snatching someone's gal, btw. Just keeping it lively.
We respectfully disagree about how momentous and compelling / convincing their 4 series wins ended up being. But not on how much we love the team.
And hey, no way is 'back-to-back' an expectation of mine. It's the toughest team trophy to win in the world. Period. But the team will proudly defend the Cup in '18/'19, and we'll see what happens.
If you've not seen it / picked one up, I encourage you to snag a 'Worth the Wait' commemorative magazine from the Washington Post. Tom Boswell's overview of what the Capitals finally accomplished in '17-'18 is perhaps the finest opinion piece I have ever read about our boys in red, white and blue. If somehow it's stashed online somewhere, I'll find and post the link.
It's titled: Goodbye Ghosts - The Past is History!
Later gang!!
To be fair to DC, he wasn't implying it was all a "lucky run." If you read his posts he is more implying that other teams took us lightly due to years of disappointment. He's not wrong. Both Pitt and Tampa in particular had a vibe of "of course the Caps will choke" to their play style. They weren't playing as hungry as they usually do because they under estimated their opponent. That isn't something we are going to be given the benefit of the doubt on this season.
That isn't to say our boys didn't out work them, they did. It's more, us out working them as hard as we did in the playoffs and not letting the bounces affect us like we usually do began to stun them, those two teams in particular. We've always had good playoff hustle, but we let the momentum swings get to us. So teams would just let us dominate sections of games in the playoffs, wait for the momentum to swing and capitalize. But when this season, the Caps would just push and push and push, and if the momentum swung we'd push again. It stunned teams. They finally saw that we had our big boy jock straps on and were ready to take playoff hockey to another level.
But make no mistake, we can shit talk them all we want but the Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning are right up there with us this season as top contenders from the Eastern Conference. Now that they realize we can get it done, it won't just be about pushing on and not letting momentum swings get to us. If we find ourselves in a series with either of those two teams next year, it's going to be some of the most competitive playoff hockey you've ever seen. Trust me. And in that regard, I think DC's ultimate point is that we can't take that for granted. We can't assume just because we did it before it'll come to us again. It's going to take another elevation, another finding of a gear.
However I absolutely think we have the personnel, coaching staff, and mental fortitude to push ourselves into that gear. But just because we have the capacity doesn't mean it'll happen. I agree with DC in regards to the argument that next season is going to be one of the toughest in the Ovie era. It absolutely will be. Forget just a target in the playoffs, it's going to be a hell of a battle just to get there in my estimation.
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DC - we saw what Cup winners must do. The goalie standing on his head. The stars playing up to their abilities. Shaking off adversity time and again (I swear, the suits in Toronto and the refs on the ice did NOT want a Soviet Captain to hoist the Cup - Lol!), the secondary scoring was stout (see DSP, Eller, Willy, and Conno), and youngsters brought speed (Vrana) and no fear (Stephenson and Djoos and Walker especially). Of all those factors, Holtby was the difference maker for me. Finally, we were the team with the postseason goalie that stood on his head in every series - all the way through. Can we replicate that in '18-'19? Hard as hell, as you point out. But it will be grand pulling for them and knowing in my heart they finally did something I waited 44 years for - most of it feeling like death in postseason disappointments dating back to '83. And that's now all gone. Let's Go Caps!
Well The Hens fans have had multiple hate threads about me on their boards for bullying their trolls on the old site, and I was one of the ones that started this board and got everyone over here, so no, not a Hens fan . . .
8)
While we should certainly enjoy the Cup, we or some us most remain pragmatic about the team, and how the Cup was won.
While Devise summed up a main point, we must also keep in mind that in this Cup High, it is easy to forget or bluff off the low points simply by winning the fourth round, then saying the team is that great because they won the fourth round. Then to assume this is the team we will have going forward. This is where most are going.
All while practically everyone, had this team written off. While it makes for great drama, "over coming adversity", "no one believed in us" etc., there still comes the question: Where did this come from?
While all Cup winners loose games in the playoffs, not many looked as god-awful and as frequently awful as The Caps did in some of their losses in the playoffs or in this regular season. . .you can go through the GDT threads on here and witness the people who saw theses terrible factors repeatedly and wrote the team off?
When it comes to these negative issues, the snapshot of the last 6-7 games and winning the fourth, simply cannot erase a series of consistent negatives over the long term.
So yes by all means enjoy the Cup. But be weary not to let it dismiss, or use to use it to justify the long term issues of this team and franchise, and/or assume they are resolved.
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With the rumors of Panarin not wanting to sign an extension with the Columbus and the possibility of him being traded. I am really surprised that no one has mentioned him. I guess because no one here wants him on the Caps. I know I wouldn't want him.
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LOB signed a 1 year 2 way deal for the league min... Likely be buried in Hershey all year.
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DC - we saw what Cup winners must do. The goalie standing on his head. The stars playing up to their abilities. Shaking off adversity time and again (I swear, the suits in Toronto and the refs on the ice did NOT want a Soviet Captain to hoist the Cup - Lol!), the secondary scoring was stout (see DSP, Eller, Willy, and Conno), and youngsters brought speed (Vrana) and no fear (Stephenson and Djoos and Walker especially). Of all those factors, Holtby was the difference maker for me. Finally, we were the team with the postseason goalie that stood on his head in every series - all the way through. Can we replicate that in '18-'19? Hard as hell, as you point out. But it will be grand pulling for them and knowing in my heart they finally did something I waited 44 years for - most of it feeling like death in postseason disappointments dating back to '83. And that's now all gone. Let's Go Caps!
We saw what WE needed to do to win a Cup, . . . and even for Cups winners it was A LOT. It sure made for great drama and a "monumental", pun intended, event. . .but remember, this was a" throw away", rebuilding year.
This was not the result of a precise,deliberate and systematic strategy to build a long term dominating dynasty like Chicago, LA, and Detroit did in recent history, as the zealots who worship the ground GMBetaMale walks on wants you to believe.
The coaches and players won this IN SPITE of Monumentals half-assed "have a chance in the playoffs" bullshit marketing scheme, not as the result of the "brilliance of the greatest front office in the history of sports" that will be sold 'door-to-door' by Patricks Witnesses from The Church of Ted Christ and Latter Day Saints.
Which brings me to the point of, should we now just say "Holtby and Ovie will take us through each playoffs, and doesn't matter who else is there, we 'have faith in the front office' ", or say 'we finally did it, we can die happy, its worth waiting another 10 years to do it again", "or this team is SO GOOD, every team in the league fears them and always have so they will just roll over us now the we won a Cup".
The mission is not over, it's just started, "a" Cup isnt good enough. Betting on what got us here to keep us in the Conf finals at minimum for years to come, is only an emotional leap of faith for entertainment, not a logical or analytical conclusion.
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LOB signed a 1 year 2 way deal for the league min... Likely be buried in Hershey all year.
Id like to say he has a better shot with a new coach, but well see
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Id like to say he has a better shot with a new coach, but well see
He would have a better shot if he was a better player. He brings a physical presence but absolutely nothing else.
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He would have a better shot if he was a better player. He brings a physical presence but absolutely nothing else.
your being a bit cliche. This organization doesn’t like or value physical players, period. Willy’s an RFA while they over play for Eller, Bura, Connelly, and Carlson how is that not proof of this organizations priorities despite winning a Cup?
This “today’s game” crap, is a just marketing scam.
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your being a bit cliche. This organization doesn’t like or value physical players, period. Willy’s an RFA while they over play for Eller, Bura, Connelly, and Carlson how is that not proof of this organizations priorities despite winning a Cup?
This “today’s game” crap, is a just marketing scam.
I agree the organization doesnt favor physical players but that doesnt change the fact that LOB isn't much of a hockey player.
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Hens sign Olesniak for 3 for2mil . . . gggrrreeeaaatttt 😡[size=78%]. Not bad for “goons can’t play hockey” huh?[/size]
Won’t be long til he royally fucks one of our players up. . . But hey, Mr Lenosis and Mr Patrick say “it’s ok, well just hide from meanies”
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Hens sign Olesniak for 3 for2mil . . . gggrrreeeaaatttt 😡[size=78%]. Not bad for “goons can’t play hockey” huh?[/size]
Won’t be long til he royally fucks one of our players up. . . But hey, Mr Lenosis and Mr Patrick say “it’s ok, well just hide from meanies”
Actually Olesniak isn't a bad player. He isn't just a goon.
Sometimes you are so close minded about your goons that you dont take into account what else that player brings. A lot of those types of players are liabilities and end up hurting the team more than helping. A player isn't helping your team if he takes dumbs penalties and can't help you in other ways.
I like tough physical players but if they can't contribute in other ways then they shouldn't be in the NHL.
BTW Olesniak would have fit in Orpiks spot nicely.
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your being a bit cliche. This organization doesn’t like or value physical players, period. Willy’s an RFA while they over play for Eller, Bura, Connelly, and Carlson how is that not proof of this organizations priorities despite winning a Cup?
This “today’s game” crap, is a just marketing scam.
Think your sort of off base here, and a bit in general in regards to this organizations management. I don't disagree that yes the organization does favor marketing over the essentials required to building a winner. But I don't think that necessarily means they completely ignore those essentials, as you lay out here and in every argument.
Look to your Wilson example as a perfect point. Wilson isn't still an RFA because the organization doesn't value him. In fact if you read the reports, it's the opposite. He didn't file for arbitration, (loyalty) and traditionally when a franchise wants to undervalue a young RFA like that they lowball extension contract him to wait and see if they have to pay them the big bucks after they become a UFA. Instead all the reports are the reason it's taking so long is because both the Caps and Wilson want to sign a long term 4+ year deal, with rumors of him making 4.5+ a season. We are if anything OVER valuing Wilson.
Which, considering that I do agree with you that we do struggle in the toughness department especially after the loss of Oprik who was a physical stud in the playoffs, and I think has easily proven to be a playoff type player. His age was the issue obviously. But them over valuing Wilson as they are I think implies they see his value. We have always been a "big" hockey team, but struggled to effectively use that size to our advantage when it mattered. The tone of Wilsons playstyle and how mean he can be, I think really drives home a point for some of our lets say "softer" guys.
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They put it all together, starting with that outdoor game in Annapolis and once Kempny got his game right. Then, of course, Holtby had to live up to his potential in the postseason. And he finally did.
I don't know that we're disagreeing so much at all. And for the record, I don't want the Cup win to be a 'one and done,' if you will. As talented as the Leafs are, they still need help on the back end, IMHO.
And the Bolts? Tremendous on paper, and a formidable foe. But we can hang with them and I don't see them being more talented than our squad. I think we're pretty damn even with them and the Pens both. And frankly, I like the Eastern Conference contenders a lot more than those in the West. Way more firepower, IMHO, with the Caps, Bolts, Pens, and Leafs.
So we'll see what happens. I'm hoping they're hungry still, that Reirden is as good as advertised, and that Oshie and company make good on the 'back-to-back' chant! Let's Go Caps!!
We saw what WE needed to do to win a Cup, . . . and even for Cups winners it was A LOT. It sure made for great drama and a "monumental", pun intended, event. . .but remember, this was a" throw away", rebuilding year.
This was not the result of a precise,deliberate and systematic strategy to build a long term dominating dynasty like Chicago, LA, and Detroit did in recent history, as the zealots who worship the ground GMBetaMale walks on wants you to believe.
The coaches and players won this IN SPITE of Monumentals half-assed "have a chance in the playoffs" bullshit marketing scheme, not as the result of the "brilliance of the greatest front office in the history of sports" that will be sold 'door-to-door' by Patricks Witnesses from The Church of Ted Christ and Latter Day Saints.
Which brings me to the point of, should we now just say "Holtby and Ovie will take us through each playoffs, and doesn't matter who else is there, we 'have faith in the front office' ", or say 'we finally did it, we can die happy, its worth waiting another 10 years to do it again", "or this team is SO GOOD, every team in the league fears them and always have so they will just roll over us now the we won a Cup".
The mission is not over, it's just started, "a" Cup isnt good enough. Betting on what got us here to keep us in the Conf finals at minimum for years to come, is only an emotional leap of faith for entertainment, not a logical or analytical conclusion.
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Actually Olesniak isn't a bad player. He isn't just a goon.
Sometimes you are so close minded about your goons that you dont take into account what else that player brings. A lot of those types of players are liabilities and end up hurting the team more than helping. A player isn't helping your team if he takes dumbs penalties and can't help you in other ways.
I like tough physical players but if they can't contribute in other ways then they shouldn't be in the NHL.
BTW Olesniak would have fit in Orpiks spot nicely.
again that was sarcasm. I’ve been saying we should get him for years. He has great iq, can use his size to cover massive areas, can skate with the NHL game, and has a heavy shot . . .
He’s just not the type Monumental wants market. They prefer Djoos barley able to lift a god gatorade bottle and Hooks getting carted off on a stretcher after getting knocked out for not fighting.
While I do see where your interoperation of my view "goons" come from, it is not as redneck-meat head as it seems on the surface. I just call out that players with that skillset get unjustly and illogically shunned and degraded simply because they can and do fight, with all other value of the individual player, or new tactics/strategies that can be used with that player in the line up.
Olesniak is a prime example. . .everyone dubbed him as just a goon. Then when used in a way to benefit his skillset, he becomes a very good player that can change the tone of games without even being on the ice.
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again that was sarcasm. I’ve been saying we should get him for years. He has great iq, can use his size to cover massive areas, can skate with the NHL game, and has a heavy shot . . .
He’s just not the type Monumental wants market. They prefer Djoos barley able to lift a god gatorade bottle and Hooks getting carted off on a stretcher after getting knocked out for not fighting.
While I do see where your interoperation of my view "goons" come from, it is not as redneck-meat head as it seems on the surface. I just call out that players with that skillset get unjustly and illogically shunned and degraded simply because they can and do fight, with all other value of the individual player, or new tactics/strategies that can be used with that player in the line up.
Olesniak is a prime example. . .everyone dubbed him as just a goon. Then when used in a way to benefit his skillset, he becomes a very good player that can change the tone of games without even being on the ice.
I would take Olesniak over Djoo any day of the week. A 160 lb dman doesnt belong in the NHL.
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Well, this rather sucks. . . . Hanks career may be over (https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nhl/red-wings/2018/08/28/detroit-red-wings-henrik-zetterberg/1128632002/)
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Well, this rather sucks. . . . Hanks career may be over (https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nhl/red-wings/2018/08/28/detroit-red-wings-henrik-zetterberg/1128632002/)
I heard rumors of him possibly retiring. I didnt know he had issues with his back.
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I heard rumors of him possibly retiring. I didnt know he had issues with his back.
Looks like he missed most of camp. . .
It sucks as he's still amoung the best all around players in the league, but . . .it gives other players, particularly the next Captain (who ever that will be), a big chance to step up
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Surprised that no one has mentioned that the Caps have signed Sergei Shumakov to a one year, two way entry-level contract worth $925,000.
DC isn't going to like this move.
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It just became official today. You beat me to it. Interesting signing but it could be an outstanding move if he pans out. Our forward depth is very thin and if he develops into a consistent scorer it would be great. People are speculating he will replace Connolly on the third line. Looking forward to seeing him in training camp. He and Kuzy must know each other what with being from the same city in Russia and the same age. They probably played youth hockey together and maybe that is why the Capitals were able to sign him.
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Surprised that no one has mentioned that the Caps have signed Sergei Shumakov to a one year, two way entry-level contract worth $925,000.
DC isn't going to like this move.
that’s a person? I heard that the name and just thought someone sneezed
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that’s a person? I heard that the name and just thought someone sneezed
Lol. I dont know much about him but I'm pretty sure he is the type of player that you dislike. I'm not sure if I like it or not. Maybe if he fits in they can trade Burakovsky. Shumakov is a left winger and I dont think he us suited to be a 4th line player so who else would he replace. The only other guy I could think of might be Connolly.
I wish I could find more information on the guy. Other than some offensive skill I know nothing about his game. I hope he is a decent 2way player.
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Off-season? who cares about the off-season now?
Where's the dang GDT?
I'm BORED :wackysmile: