Which Team Sucks More?
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 7:00 AM MST
in Avalanche News & Notes
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PrintWhat follows is a statistical analysis to determine which team sucks more - the 2008-2009 Colorado Avalanche or the 2010-2011 Colorado Avalanche:
The 2008-2009 Avalanche won 32 games
The 2010-2011 Avalanche have won 26 games, with 14 to go
Verdict: Draw
The 2008-2009 Avalanche got just 15 games out of Joe Sakic in his final year
The 2010-2011 Avalanche got just 2 games out of Peter Forsberg in his final year
Verdict: 2008-2009, because of the snowblower
The 2008-2009 Avalanche ranked 30th on offense
The 2010-2011 Avalanche rank 30th on defense
Verdict: Draw
The 2008-2009 Avalanche were led in +/- by Ben Guite (+2)
The 2010-2011 Avalanche are led in +/- by Greg Mauldin (+5)
Verdict: 2008-2009
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had a goalie tandem of Peter Budaj and Andrew Raycroft
The 2010-2011 Avalanche have a goalie tandem of Peter Budaj and Brian Elliott
Verdict: Draw
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had Tyler Arnason
The 2010-2011 Avalanche don't have Tyler Arnason
Verdict: 2008-2009
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had Cody McLeod as their #3 goal scorer (15)
The 2010-2011 Avalanche have one left winger with goals in the double digits (Kevin Porter, with 12)
Verdict: 2010-2011
The 2008-2009 Avalanche were tanking for Tavares Hedman Duchene
The 2010-2011 Avalanche are [scratches head]
Verdict: 2010-2011
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had the league's 26th ranked power play
The 2010-2011 Avalanche have the league's worst penalty kill
Verdict: 2010-2011
The 2008-2009 Avalanche averaged 15,429 in road attendance.
The 2010-2011 Avalanche are averaging 14,882 in home attendance
Verdict: 2010-2011
The 2008-2009 Avalanche were coached by Tony Granato
The 2010-2011 Avalanche are coached by Joe Sacco
Verdict: 2008-2009
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had Lappy
The 2010-2011 Avalanche do not have Lappy
Verdict: 2010-2011
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had a reasonable cap number
The 2010-2011 Avalanche are at the cap floor. Barely.
Verdict: 2010-2011
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had Darcy Tucker
The 2010-2011 Avalanche do not have Darcy Tucker
Verdict: 2008-2009
The 2008-2009 Avalanche buried European import Per Ledin in the minors
The 2010-2011 Avalanche have been slow to bring along European import Jonas Holos
Verdict: 2008-2009
The 2008-2009 Avalanche used 37 different players
The 2010-2011 Avalanche have used 37 different players
Verdict: Draw
The 2008-2009 Avalanche wore uniprons
The 2010-2011 Avalanche wear uniprons and the occasional blueberry third jersey
Verdict: 2010-2011
The results are close, but we do have a winner. By virtue of a 7-6 decision, with 3 draws, the team that sucks more is the 2010-2011 Colorado Avalanche. The winners get a home version of the game. To, you know, practice with and stuff.
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The 2008-2009 Avalanche had Lappy
The 2010-2011 Avalanche do not have Lappy
Verdict: 2010-2011
This :\
"That's what We DO"-Paul Stastny
The Colorado Avalanche - The luckiest team in the league
ME TOO
Winnik is a fucking #Winner. Le P'tit Français est un Des Boys. Can Johnson bring me loads of happiness? Bucket Loads. Ryan O`Byrne must have #TigerBlood
Because 30 is different than 20.
by Sandie Gauthier on Mar 10, 2011 8:56 AM MST up reply actions
Does this mean that this season goes into the “it never happened” realm after it ends? Or do we say that the season ended at the end of December and just ignore the 2011 part of the 2010-11 season? Refer to it as the 2010 season?
Jumpin' on the Johnson bandwagon
Good goalie. WHEN.
The Impossible: MAKE IT HAPPEN, SHERMAN
IMHO, the Avs community, organization and fanbase alike, need to own up to this season. This is a young team that’s going to be together for a while. Some day soon, they will be really, very good. They can build on this season of misery.
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 7:42 AM MST up reply actions
This is a young team that’s going to be together for a while.
This is why 2008-2009 will always suck more. That was a team of spare parts.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 8:14 AM MST up reply actions
that’s going to be together for a while
We don’t know this. The contract status of our team doesn’t reflect this nor does this year’s exodus of three players that at the beginning of this season were going to be our starting D-man, right wing and goalie for a long time. We had trade rumors about everyone but Duchene as well.
For all we know, the change between this years Avs and the 2014 Avs could be as massive as the change from 2008 to now.
"Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." --Buddha
You hear that, Avs? That's the Buddha spouting that shit. So start sharing some fucking happiness already!
The nice thing about trade rumors is that it usually means the player has value and is wanted, not that the organ-I-zation is actually trying to trade them. However, trade rumors still suck because you never know when one is actually true and you are losing a known player.
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 9:25 AM MST up reply actions
Fair enough. There is no certainty in life or hockey, but if we didn’t pretend like there was we’d have nothing to prognosticate about.
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 9:42 AM MST up reply actions
Ok, ok, “going to be together for a while” was probably the wrong thing to say. Try “we have good assets in place that could potentially pay off in the future”. Better?
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 1:24 PM MST up reply actions
What a question. Who needs a rival team when they have fans like you?! Maybe once the team stops shifting players then the guys on the team can actually work on having some kind of chemistry with each other. You can’t always blame the ones on the ice.
we are a dour bunch. welcome!
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 7:36 AM MST up reply actions
They don’t call him Red Wing Dave for nothing.
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 7:37 AM MST up reply actions
The ones on the ice are the ones playing the game…sometimes it’s hard not to blame them.
At the same time, really? You are going there?
Are you suggesting coconuts migrate?
No, I’m talking about the original post the “why do you hate the Avalanche” spouting?
Are you suggesting coconuts migrate?
Oh, oh. Good.. I was about to start spouting about my unrequited and debilitating love for DDC.. but I’m glad you spoke up, so I don’t have to now.
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 7:54 AM MST up reply actions
you still can
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 8:01 AM MST up reply actions
I love pants, first and foremost
Second is DDC tied with cupcakes, which is then followed by organic bananas at a distant third. Anyone who follows my twitter account, knows how much I duly love those bananas, which really says a lot about how much I really do love pants…and DDC and cupcakes etc etc.
"Yeah, that's the wurst."
for the record, I absolutely detest bananas. organic or otherwise
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 8:28 AM MST up reply actions
Have you ever eaten a peanut butter, nuttela, banana and bacon sandwich?
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 8:31 AM MST up reply actions
Yes, but without the bacon
It was awesome. I have also made Nuttella peanut butter banana pancakes.
Winnik is a fucking #Winner. Le P'tit Français est un Des Boys. Can Johnson bring me loads of happiness? Bucket Loads. Ryan O`Byrne must have #TigerBlood
Because 30 is different than 20.
by Sandie Gauthier on Mar 10, 2011 8:57 AM MST up reply actions
Those are my very favorite pancakes.
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 8:59 AM MST up reply actions
Mmmmm
Yummy.
Winnik is a fucking #Winner. Le P'tit Français est un Des Boys. Can Johnson bring me loads of happiness? Bucket Loads. Ryan O`Byrne must have #TigerBlood
Because 30 is different than 20.
by Sandie Gauthier on Mar 10, 2011 9:45 AM MST up reply actions
WTF
DDC DO NOT TEST MY PATIENCE. (ORGANIC) BANANAS ARE AWESOME!!! Granted, not as amazing as Mangos, but that’s just me.
"Yeah, that's the wurst."
DDC is a fruit. but he hates bananas
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 8:38 AM MST up reply actions
Nice
Ps, kudos for the new hook up top. “It’s Horrible” is just so…succinct and, well, just accurate. I like it.
"Yeah, that's the wurst."
David Jones wrapped taht one in a bow.
Winnik is a fucking #Winner. Le P'tit Français est un Des Boys. Can Johnson bring me loads of happiness? Bucket Loads. Ryan O`Byrne must have #TigerBlood
Because 30 is different than 20.
by Sandie Gauthier on Mar 10, 2011 8:58 AM MST up reply actions
You detest bananas, but you are mute about the pants? Priorities dude, priorities!
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 9:26 AM MST up reply actions
I do love pants. I even like banana pants
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 9:30 AM MST up reply actions
wearing one now
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 9:40 AM MST up reply actions
Bought from Banana Republic?
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 9:40 AM MST up reply actions
Yes. Bananas are horrid.
I'm Cameron Awesome and I play defense!
Avalanche Breakaway: a blog of hockey goodness
by Cheryl Bradley on Mar 10, 2011 12:18 PM MST up reply actions
TIL that some people really don’t like bananas. Was completely unaware.
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 12:38 PM MST up reply actions
You can’t always blame the ones on the ice.
Only when they are playing poorly. Duchene has had Hejduk as a consistent linemate for most of this losing spell. He’s been awful.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 7:54 AM MST up reply actions
Is this his sophomore slump? If so, alright, he’ll get over it.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
If Duchene is having a sophomore slump, is Yip having a sophomore “fall of the cliff?”
Are you suggesting coconuts migrate?
Every player’s slump is different…..still, I kind of agree.
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 9:30 AM MST up reply actions
Not sure what it is, and I think he’ll be fine next season. I was just pointing out that the changing lines up all the time theory doesn’t explain duchene’s slump at all.
Also, hockey players have been changing linemmates and teammates since they were 5. I’m gonna go out on a limb and say changing doesn’t bother them all that much and they are used to it. I’s who it’s changed too is a bigger deal.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 9:06 AM MST up reply actions
But the Avs make it easy for other teams’ defense against the Dutchy line. Cover Duchene and Hejduk and you’re pretty much done.
Yeah…that’s gonna happen when you lose Flash and when Gally and Stoa and Yip underperform (or perform to their expected level, that can certainly be argued) and when you have to put Kevin Porter in the top 6 and when management doesn’t go out and pay a few million for a top 6 forward. That team’s gonna be pretty easy to defend against.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 9:12 AM MST up reply actions
I completely forget this team lost Galiardi TWICE this season.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
Perhaps because Galiardi wasn’t doing much when he was healthy.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
I have high hopes for him next year.
Galiardi – Radar – Winnik
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
If that’s your 3rd line, you need to make room for McClement in there, who’s a much better defensive forward than any of those guys.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 9:29 AM MST up reply actions
By Galiardi, hello McClement.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 9:31 AM MST up reply actions
But a 4th line of Porter-Galiardi-Yip wouldn’t be a bad thing.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 9:32 AM MST up reply actions
Agreed, although I have grown to dislike Porter.
I would replace Yip with Dupuis.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
agreed, Yip drives me crazy, I dont know why? but I get so aggravated with him
by avalanchejef on Mar 10, 2011 9:49 AM MST up reply actions
Yip developed as a checking agitator at BU. He took off the shield and got in to a fight where he broke his hand in like his first preseason game.
Avs called him up when he got healthy and he scored some quick goals. All of a sudden he was morphed in to a skilled goal scorer. He hasn’t been that player since he was 15 years old in the BCHL.
Yip, Winnick and McLeod need to be put on the ice and told to hit everything that moves and clear your zone. Talk lots of shit and get guys off their game. That’s it. The delusions about chipping in goals should be scrapped. If they kick in a garbage goal here and there, great.
I'll keep this brief.
I agree about Winnik, I think that’s exactly what happened to him earlier this year. Who wants to be the guy who has to go out and finish his checks every game? Who doesn’t want to be the guy who creates, gets offensive chances, and scores goals? It’s happened to many guys – they don’t know their damn role.
I’m not picking on Winnik. He’s been more than pretty much anyone could expect as a former late-round draft choice and being acquired for a 4th-rounder. But he’s not as effective a player when he thinks he’s a scorer, which he’s not and never will be.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 10:01 AM MST up reply actions
Totally agree.
btw, his one fight this year matches his fight total in training camp (against Quincey). He needs way more sandpaper in his game.
I'll keep this brief.
I think I’d want to punch Quincey too if he were on my team. Winnik is what he is. A decent 3rd line checking forward with limited offensive skill who doesn’t always bring it physically like you’d like him to. In other words, he’s more of the same on this team. Not exactly filling a need during the last offseason.
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 10:25 AM MST up reply actions
I don’t dislike Porter; I just don’t feel he has any place on a team that wants to contend for a Stanley Cup. Many of my best friends have no place on a Stanley Cup contender, and I like them very much.
"Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." --Buddha
You hear that, Avs? That's the Buddha spouting that shit. So start sharing some fucking happiness already!
For some reason, I still believe he’d be a perfect 4th liner. He looks a little bit like Mike Keane. I’d love it if he modeled his game that way.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 10:03 AM MST up reply actions
I do like that he hits, but he just seems like he really really really wants to be a scorer. Unfortunately the fact that broad sides of barns all relax when they see Porter coming their way doesn’t bode well for him.
Dear god what I wouldn’t do to have a Mike Keene on this team though.
"Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." --Buddha
You hear that, Avs? That's the Buddha spouting that shit. So start sharing some fucking happiness already!
Mike Keane Av part 1. Mike Keane Av part 2 was pretty washed up, imo.
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 10:09 AM MST up reply actions
He really was the secret sauce in the Roy trade.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 10:09 AM MST up reply actions
That OT goal he scored in the first season against the Wings in the playoffs was one of the biggest goals in franchise history.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 10:11 AM MST up reply actions
Unsung hero. He then dragged the Stars to their Cup.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 10:16 AM MST up reply actions
Probably his best Av moment, to be sure. But another one of my favorites was when he tried to gouge that gutless puke Maltby’s eyes out during an Av/RW scrum.
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 10:18 AM MST up reply actions
he just seems like he really really really wants to be a scorer
perhaps that’s because he’s spent his entire life as a scorer (still holds records, hobey baker and all) and he still has to figure out what his role is on this team. You say he should realize he’s not a scorer, but he’s been bumped up to scoring lines because of injuries and during his first real season in the NHL. I don’t think it’s his fault that he hasn’t figured out his role. Give him regular minutes on the third or fourth line with the understanding that that’s his role and I bet you’ll see him morph his game into what the team needs. I will continue to contend that people around here don’t give him enough credit.
I'm Cameron Awesome and I play defense!
Avalanche Breakaway: a blog of hockey goodness
by Cheryl Bradley on Mar 10, 2011 12:27 PM MST up reply actions
I’ll call my shot right now, Brad Malone is going to replace McLeod as the fourth line checker and fans will love him.
I'll keep this brief.
Honestly, if that 3rd line works out the way I hope it can, it could be the Avs’ version of the Grind Line.* Although I wouldn’t be opposed to putting Radar on the 4th line and working him in slowly.
Now we just need to get our versions of Lidstrom and Fedorov and Shanahan and Yzerman and Datsyuk and Zetterberg, and we should be just fine.**
*Ask RW Dave, he’ll know what that is.
**By the way, in future discussions of players who played for both the Avs and the Red Wings, add Norwegian Anders Myrvold to the list. Four games for the Avs their first year, 8 games for the Wings in 2003-2004.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 9:38 AM MST up reply actions
Something has got to give.
Hishon looks like he’s more than ready.
Duchene, Hishon, Statstny, Hejduk, Flash, Mueller, Hishon.
Hedjuk could retire. Mueller might not play again. Avs might not sign Flash (although they fucking better).
Radar probably can’t play in the top six (although I’d like to see them give him a shot with Stats on his wing).
The rest are all jumbled together as semi-talented guys in the 3rd/4th lines.
I'll keep this brief.
To tell the truth, the way he quit on the play after the penalty against MIN, I don’t think that Duke is having fun, and may not be coming back. It’s one play, and maybe I’m reading too much into it, but I’ve never seen Duke quit before.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 9:57 AM MST up reply actions
Then he should have taken a trade. Him quitting on that play was the most disappointed I’ve every been in an Avs player not named May, and to see that it was Hejduk was heartbreaking.
"Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." --Buddha
You hear that, Avs? That's the Buddha spouting that shit. So start sharing some fucking happiness already!
I haven’t seen him play much, so maybe he’s ready, but I kind of hope Hishon takes a season in the AHL. As much as I like O’Reilly and Duchene, eating up a year or two of their entry level contracts may not have been the best move on the Avs part.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 5:45 PM MST up reply actions
it would have eaten a year of it in the AHL too, and will for Hishon as I understand it. They would have had to stay in the CHL/college/europe to not use a year.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
I don’t think so. I don’t think the entry level contract starts until they play NHL. I’ll check it out.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 6:00 PM MST up reply actions
After reading this, I still have no idea, but I think you may be right.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 6:04 PM MST up reply actions
no i think you are:
A player’s ELC may be extended for three reasons:
1. If a player age 18 or 19 signs an SPC and does not play at least ten (10) NHL games in the first season, his contract will extend for one (1) year.
I didn’t know that rule. So Hishon, who will be 19 this offseason, could sign his ELC, play in the AHL all season, and still have 3 years of his ELC starting 2012-13.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
ok, then if I’m right then I stand by my statement above that It may not be best for the Avs to burn a year on his Entry level contract.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 11, 2011 7:38 AM MST up reply actions
yeah, i’ll agree with that if true as well.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
I love
how civil this discussion was.
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
by Avalanche318 on Mar 11, 2011 8:57 AM MST up reply actions
when people are focused on the truth instead of being right, all kinds of good things happen.
someone needs to get this memo to washington.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
It’s almost like we respect each other’s opinions even when we disagree.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 11, 2011 1:52 PM MST up reply actions 1 recs
Unpossible
You’re both insane.
2010-2011 Colorado Avalanche: Hugging the cap floor and waiting on their revenue share, because hey, billionaires need welfare too!
Jibbles is an older man, so you can trust what he says.
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 11, 2011 10:58 AM MST up reply actions
Duchene hasn’t been playing against the other teams best players, Stastny & McClement have. (Although McClements number may be influenced by his time in StL).
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 9:14 AM MST up reply actions
I wondered if this was true. I asked a few times if there was a way to know. This is even more indicative of how good Stastny is. No offense to Duchene but he better pick it up next year when he does get the best players.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
Duchene has been a disappointment for me this season, though I always have trouble articulating why (other than his lackluster scoring for a supposedly elite center). Knowing that he’s been up against lesser players makes it more clear for me.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
he still has 50 points though. if this is his “low point” – I’ll take it. if it isn’t, we’re in deep shit
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 9:18 AM MST up reply actions
Fair point, but as of right now, there are 24 centers above him in the league standings, including such standout names as Mikhail Grabovski, David Krejci and Thomas Plekanec.
Not saying Duchene is terrible, but he’s not playing up to his potential, and that’s disappointing. Yes, the rest of the team is weak, yes, he’s still very young. I recognize these facts, too.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
Krejci is a very very good player playing with Lucic and Horton. Solid, point producing wingers.
Duchene with Flash or Mueller put up good numbers.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
Duchene with Mueller and Flash will put up great numbers
by avalanchejef on Mar 10, 2011 9:54 AM MST up reply actions
I think Duchene has been really good this year. But he’s not playing as a good center IMO. His best scoring chances are on the rush. As a center he should rarely lead that rush. Typically he should be the second guy coming through the neutral zone.
A typical breakout will have the puck move from the wing off the “half wall” to a center breaking up ice and the winger far winger will rush up the zone with the center. We saw Flash and Mules lead the puck in to the zone a lot when the offense was successful because they were fed the puck early and they pushed the defenseman back along the wall in to the offensive zone. That made room for the center and off winger to skate through the middle of the zone. Right now they are breaking through in the middle of the ice and a lot of the times is Duchene pushing the play.
Why? Because his wingers are cheating down on defense to help Duchene out. Hejduk isn’t leading the rush in to the zone, he’s like the 3rd guy in because he’s playing so deep in his own zone. Dutch should be the guy working the puck to his wingers from deeper in his zone. Frankly, his outlet passing in the d zone has been poor. Defense has become a big priority for the club and the wingers are cheating down a lot further and they get gassed quicker. The whole thing is a bit of a mess obviously.
The secret for Duchene’s game is to play a stronger d game in his own end so his wingers are higher in the zone. If they can carry the puck out of the zone, he can use his speed through the neutral zone and create problems. Ironically, Mules and Flash aren’t nearly as defensively minded as Duke and Jones. Jones and Duke cheating down so low on the boards in their own zone has retarded the only strength the Avs had this season, their speed.
I'll keep this brief.
by Dario on Mar 10, 2011 9:33 AM MST up reply actions 1 recs
Makes sense, and it’s not just Duchene’s defensive liabilities that has led to the wingers playing deeper D. It’s also the fact that the defense can’t be relied on to do their jobs at all.
One giant mess.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
Yeah, one weak link just leads to overcompensation and more problems.
It’s like goaltending rebounds. When the D doesn’t trust the goalie to make a clean save they start looking at their feet for rebounds instead of tying guys up. That leads to a lot of sloppy play at the net which we’ve seen as well. Coaches call it confidence. Having enough confidence in your game that you don’t over compensate and do things you shouldn’t. Brooks used to yell at his players constantly to “Do your job”. Avs players really need to go back to basics.
I'll keep this brief.
good points, I think Duchene will be a better winger so he can carry the puck, and he is better at picking passes in the neutral zone. I just wonder if he will be willing to adapt to the change at wing.
by avalanchejef on Mar 10, 2011 9:59 AM MST up reply actions
If this is his sophomore slump, that’s great. It hasn’t been that much of a slump.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
plus hand injuries take about three weeks to come back from, that only explains the last few weeks. I think (and hope) he will be the real deal.
by avalanchejef on Mar 10, 2011 10:00 AM MST up reply actions
Other teams haven’t needed to play their best defense against the Duchene line because, you know, it’s only the two guys.
that is completely opposite to what you just said above.
Duchene and Hejduk are 2 of the Avs top 3 players. They haven’t been playing against the other teams best players. They are playing poorly.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 9:30 AM MST up reply actions
Who needs a rival team when they have fans like you?!
Darcy Tucker
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
by Joe Dunman on Mar 10, 2011 8:27 AM MST up reply actions 2 recs
I flagged this as inappropriate
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
This was fun
But the conclusion I draw, the 2008 year was much much worse. This current team has a future, that team did not.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
I came to the same conclusion
The 08 team had less talent compared to this 2011 team. I think the 2010 team was inspiring. Before the new year, this team was great. Since 2011 this has been the biggest tank job Bababouy has seen. Something happened to the chemistry on this team, probably something with factions in the locker room?
I make a mean peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
Foote and Hejduk keep telling Stastny and Duchene to get off their lawn.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
I sure wouldn’t go that far. They had a lot of players who are still playing in the league who logged at least 800 minutes that season, roughly 10 minutes/game. A lot of those guys were veterans, allegedly in their prime.
Here’s who played 800+ minutes that year for the Avs:
Hannan
Brett Clark (who the closet GMs here absolutely hated)
Duke
JML
Ryan Smyth
Salei (see Clark comment)
Wolski
Jordan Leopold
Lappy
Stats
Tyler Arnason
Cody McLeod
Svats
Darcy Tucker
Adam Foote
Additionally, Chris Stewart, Cody McCormick, TJ Hensick, David Jones, TJ Galiardi, and Philippe Dupuis all played for that team, and all those guys are still in the NHL.
Both goalies from that team are still in the league.
I think that team had much more talent than this year’s team, and I don’t think it’s especially close. That’s why this year, as terrible as it’s been, isn’t as disappointing.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 9:24 AM MST up reply actions
To be honest, I thought out top six was going to be awesome that year.
Smyth-Sakic-Hejduk? That line had awesome written all over it.
Wolski-Stastny-Svatos? Back then, Wolski was a rising star and Svatos was coming off his 26 goals in 62 games season.
I had a lot of hope for those two lines, only to now have amnesia about a lot of things.
"Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." --Buddha
You hear that, Avs? That's the Buddha spouting that shit. So start sharing some fucking happiness already!
Brian Engblom nailed it on the head the other night on Vs.
The beginning of the end was the 5-0 drubbing the Kings gave the Avs. Every team since then has defended the Avs offense the same way, shutting down the speed and giving the defense the advantage on every Avs possession.
Possible Translations:
1. Joe Sacco can’t adjust as a coach
2. This team doesn’t have the ability/skill/talent to make the necessary adjustments
When Sacco’s system was working, it made heroes of guys like Galiardi and Mauldin. When it’s not, we get what we have now.
"Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." --Buddha
You hear that, Avs? That's the Buddha spouting that shit. So start sharing some fucking happiness already!
by Dixomatic on Mar 10, 2011 9:36 AM MST up reply actions 4 recs
This post not only needs to be REC’d, it needs to be posted permanently on the top of MHH.
=================== 21 ===================
by BraxtanFILM on Mar 10, 2011 11:54 AM MST up reply actions
it’s true, even if Engblom STILL has terrible hair
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 12:02 PM MST up reply actions
You know you'd be sad
if he changed it, he wouldn’t be himself!
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
by Avalanche318 on Mar 10, 2011 12:05 PM MST up reply actions
He has changed it several times, and it just gets worse and worse
Are you suggesting coconuts migrate?
this
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 12:16 PM MST up reply actions
The beginning of the end was the 5-0 drubbing the Kings gave the Avs. Every team since then has defended the Avs offense the same way, shutting down the speed and giving the defense the advantage on every Avs possession
.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 5:48 PM MST up reply actions
whoops
Engbloom must have read my comments ;)
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 5:48 PM MST up reply actions
Here is a conspiracy theory. I think the Avs top wanted to finish last to get a specific guy.
Evidence 1- they did hardly nothing to get above the cap floor. Infact as injuries piled up they were able to cut more payroll. Since they have nearly 50 people on there payroll they would be above the cap floor.
Evidence 2- The Avalanche have never had patients with coaches, they fired Crawford after a slow start, and the same with Hartley. They fired Q and that team wasn’t very good. How do they not fire Sacco, especially when the team has quit on the ice and gets pounded by the Flames and Oilers? Unless Sacco is just doing a great job in achieving the team goals.
Evidence 3- How crazy is it the only game where the Avs have came out and competed was against the Blues. This way it looks like the Avs might have had the better trade. After that game it has been horrible hockey, which is not what we expect to see from a team with this much talent. This change came at once, when Flash went down. Flash was great but he was not what made this team competitive on all four lines, now no line is real competitive.
So if the Management gave the orders to tank should we blame Sacco?
Let’s take the conspiracy theories even farther:
- Feb 2009: Avs zamboni driver sneaks into Joe Sakic’s garage to recover the Avs carefully engineered season-ending snowblower.
- July 2010: Mueller gets fitted with M10 anti-concussion helmet. Avalanche use their ample cap space to hire actors who then go on to place themselves close to Peter and tell him how great he’d look with long, full hair.
- Early September 2010: Mueller finds perfectly fit helmet unexpectedly doesn’t fit anymore. Gets head glanced into boards next preseason game.
- October 2010: Avs equipment manager patches up Andy’s skate with bubblegum and duct tape.
November 29, 2010: Avs trade Colby Cohen for Matt Hunwick. Team hypnotist starts giving Matt a post-hypnotic suggestion that the puck is actually a live grenade that’s been thrown on the ice.
- November 30, 2010: Fleischmann traded to Avalanche. Avs install extra comfortable seat in team plane so Tomas never feels like getting up and stretching during long flights.
- December 2010: Pierre Lacroix bristles and glowers from the executive box as Paul Stastny and Matt Duchene once again perform the Bang-Bang dance, disregarding his suggestion that they do a special version of the robot after a win.
- January 21, 2011: Peter Forsberg announces that he will be practicing with the Avalanche in hopes of making a comeback. While everyone is looking at Forsberg, Greg Sherman replaces all the wall art in the pepsi center and practice facility with demotivational posters.
- February 2011: Avs don’t fire head coach Joe Sacco
- March 2011: Avs don’t fire Sacco
Colorado Avalanche: PROMOTING itchy playoff beards since '10
by FiveJeffFingerDiscount on Mar 10, 2011 8:19 AM MST up reply actions 4 recs
And…lol
=================== 21 ===================
by BraxtanFILM on Mar 10, 2011 11:53 AM MST up reply actions
One other comparison that should be noted
2008-09: General Management did nothing during the season to help the team.
2010-11: General Management traded for a very good LW and a top 10 Defenseman in the league.
Verdict: 2008-09
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
I almost included that, to be honest
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 7:45 AM MST up reply actions
It makes a difference to me because in 08 a lot of us were on this site laughing in misery and wallowing in a bleak bleak future. In fact, there was no future, no hope, nothing to be excited about. That team had nothing, only Stastny and Smyth really. We knew Sakic was gone and management did nothing to help.
This year we have Duchene and Stastny, traded Stewart for a top of the league Defesneman, traded for a scoring LWer. The added pieces for the future and have shown they will fix the lineup.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
your saying my statistical analysis is flawed?
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 8:03 AM MST up reply actions
No, not at all, just incomplete.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
Sorry but the result is wrong.
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had a reasonable cap number
The 2010-2011 Avalanche are at the cap floor. Barely.
Verdict: 2010-2011
So according to the cap numbers, the 10-11 team was supposed to suck. The season-that-never-happened team however was terribly overpaid.
Verdict: 2008-2009
7-6 08-09, winner winner chicken dinner. And I’m not even mentioning that Tucker and Arnason should be daily doubles.
HUNWICK. FINALLY.
Frank-ly, no. 2008-2009 brat less to the ice.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 8:21 AM MST up reply actions
They were sour ’cuz they didnt have any krauts
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 8:25 AM MST up reply actions
I love the both of you.
It seems my organic bananas have some company on my love-ranking chart. Hmm….
"Yeah, that's the wurst."
My bananas are inorganic. They are made of potassium salts with a zinc-chromate outer peel.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 8:57 AM MST up reply actions
Yes, and the resulting tachycardia is exquisite!
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 9:07 AM MST up reply actions
this season....
It’s really hard to watch games because you know we might look good for a bit and then I somehow get suckered into watching only to see the same exact game every single time. Not to mention that this team got my hopes up a lot just to all of a sudden suck. I’m gonna attribute all the lack of chemistry to the 352 man games lost to injury.
How were the injuries in the season that Duchene happened?
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
Terrible. Sakic missed almost the whole year, Stastny missed 37 games, and others were hurt, too.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
Smyth missed a big chunk of time as well….
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 12:46 PM MST up reply actions
Anyone have a number?
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
by Avalanche318 on Mar 10, 2011 12:59 PM MST up reply actions
17?
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
Thx, haha
number of man games lost for each team?
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
by Avalanche318 on Mar 10, 2011 1:02 PM MST up reply actions
Ok, did it myself
08-09: 14th- 119 MGL
10-11: 3rd- 342 MGL
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
by Avalanche318 on Mar 10, 2011 1:07 PM MST up reply actions
Speaking of man games lost, I would love to see a number for “important” man games lost.
For example, man games lost by top 6 forwards, top 4 defenseman, starting goalie.
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
I agree
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
by Avalanche318 on Mar 10, 2011 1:29 PM MST up reply actions
This team might be worse, but that team sucked the life out of me and made me lose my will to live (or certainly to watch them play). It wasn’t just Arnason, I didn’t hate him the way many people did. Expectations were much higher and they were a much bigger bunch of underachievers than this year’s team.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 9:00 AM MST reply actions
The 2008-2009 Avalanche had a reasonable cap number
The 2010-2011 Avalanche are at the cap floor. Barely.
Verdict: 2010-2011
Wouldn’t this verdict be reversed? I mean, I understand it on the face of it, but the fact that the 08-09 team had a reasonable number and still was horrible would probably be a bigger strike against them in my eyes.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 9:04 AM MST reply actions
Agreed. Smyth, Sakic, Finger, Clark. All big salaries.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
I don’t believe Finger got a big pay day until he got signed by Toronto.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
Yeah, once i typed that i realized that was a mistake.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
But a fair one, since few would have predicted Finger would get a $3.5 million contract after playing for pennies with the Avalanche as a third-pairing d-man.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
Finger was one of the few overachievers on that year’s team, and he got rewarded for it. Sure, his NHL career hasn’t turned out the way he’d want, but he got set up for life financially, so good for him.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 9:15 AM MST up reply actions
Definitely not disparaging him, just Toronto.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
Oh yeah, I didn’t think you were disparaging him. I was just trying to remember a small ember of a bright spot that year, and he’s about all I came up with.
But wait…Finger wasn’t even on that year’s team, which shows how terrible my memory is.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 9:27 AM MST up reply actions
Yeah, he left after 2007-08. Seems like just yesterday, though. I honestly didn’t realize it has been that long.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
More off-topic
I find myself rooting against TJ Hensick and it really bothers me. I shouldn’t. I do want him to succeed. I have nothing against him, other than some full-of-shit blowhard picked him as his guy and I want him to be wrong more than I want to see Hensick succeed.
But Hensick sucking isn’t going to change the FOS-B. The guy will just rationalize it away, as he already has done.
So I’m going to root for Hensick to succeed (even though I don’t think he will)
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 9:10 AM MST reply actions
We all feel cheated and let down by him. He came in during that season and did well, showed flashes of talent, and actually tried. Then sucked, did well in the AHL, then sucked in the NHL, the did well in the AHL, the sucked in the NHL, then did well in the AHL, then sucked in the NHL, etc.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
If Hensick helps St. Louis get to the 11th pick it’s all good.
Jonas Holøs- Putting the Ø in defense since 2010!
by niwotsblessing on Mar 10, 2011 1:54 PM MST up reply actions
Bruised foot. Day-to-day.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 1:55 PM MST up reply actions
I think I saw the play. He blocked a shot. I think it was the first defensive play of his NHL career. That will teach him!
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 1:56 PM MST up reply actions
Oooh, yeah... gonna have to go ahead and disagree with you... about the blueberries
I didn’t like them at first but they’ve grown on me. Pun intended
by HeyPeterman on Mar 10, 2011 9:21 AM MST via mobile reply actions
I am opposite. I liked them at first, but have grown to dislike them.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 9:31 AM MST up reply actions
Same here.
Jumpin' on the Johnson bandwagon
Good goalie. WHEN.
The Impossible: MAKE IT HAPPEN, SHERMAN
Every jersey they wear seems to play equally poorly now. So we have that going for us.
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 10:31 AM MST up reply actions
also with jibs on this
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 10:44 AM MST up reply actions
The blueberry has never felt like an Avs sweater to me. They are Burgundy. It’s nice and all, but it feels like I’m cheering for someone else when they wear them.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 5:49 PM MST up reply actions
if we were cheering for someone else we might be happier
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 5:54 PM MST up reply actions
The ocean blue training camp Avs Jerseys are fantastic. I’d buy one of those in a heartbeat.
I'll keep this brief.
by Dario on Mar 10, 2011 9:36 AM MST up reply actions 1 recs
I would as well…..maybe some one can get this idea to the team so that they will actually make them available.
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 12:49 PM MST up reply actions
I still go by
No team is as good or bad as their record says. Duchene has been awful recently but he wasn’t awful earlier in the season for example. Injuries are not an excuse but actually yeah, they are. And blah, blah, blah….
Slightly OT but as far as good teams go, it does look like Vancouver is going to destroy everybody in the playoffs. Not looking forward to the next game vs them. I predict a final score of 15-0.
My acronym heavy twitter account http://twitter.com/JK47_FoC
The Avs might surprise everyone and win that game. The last team the Avs beat other than St Louis? The Nucks on Jan 18th.
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 12:51 PM MST up reply actions
the salary floor thing
I agree with Red Wing Dave in that it is a negative because it gives us less hope. We now clearly have an owner not willing to spend money on player payroll. We are getting what Enos chose to pay for. And if the organization continues to refuse to plug holes with added payroll, we’ll have more seasons like this one.
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
Mr. Kroenke is making a business decision, that’s all. He spent to close to the max in the past and wasn’t rewarded, so now he’s trying a different approach. I respect him for it.
The Blackhawks and Lightning had to have a few seasons like this to improve their teams. I think there’s light at the end of the tunnel. We’ve got a dynamic young GM and an up-and-coming head coach. I think we’ll be just fine.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 10:09 AM MST up reply actions
Meter check
My sarcasm meter has a funny rattle. Can anyone else check theirs?
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 10:11 AM MST up reply actions
A few? The Blackhawks went through this for the better part of a decade…and it only improved when old man Wirtz died and his son saw $
Are you suggesting coconuts migrate?
I guess I was specifically thinking of the 51-point season, or whatever that was. The Hawks were pretty competitive and had some good players in the late ’90s.
And now they’ve got a Cup and they’re in the hunt again this season.
I’d think it’s a pretty good time to be a Hawks fan right now.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 12:24 PM MST up reply actions
2 years from now may be another story though…
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 12:27 PM MST up reply actions
Yet you’d still have the warm memories of that Stanley Cup.
And who knows what’s gonna happen 2 years from now? Your team might find out that the goalie who carried you was just a selfish flake, that the rookie of the year candidate wasn’t that great, that the young guys who overachieved never really improved (and, in fact, got worse), and that the building from within plan and keeping the payroll low in order to pay these future “stars” was just a cover for not shelling out any money.
I understand we all love the Avs and wouldn’t switch allegiances, but which organization has a brighter future: Chicago or Colorado? If you say Colorado and mean it, you’d better have some pretty good reasons why.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 12:34 PM MST up reply actions
You think we’d be watching this puke on the ice if we had signed a top notch defenseman and a winger other than Daniel fricken Winnick in the offseason? You and I just had this conversation yesterday and I thought you agreed with me?
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 10:11 AM MST up reply actions
up-and-coming head coach
wat
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
While I believe Dan was serious with his post, I think he is also gifted at wording things in such ways as to get the biggest rises out of everyone. “Mr. Kroenke” started it off. “Dynamic young GM” was a stroke of trolling genius. And he knew that “up-and-coming head coach” would reel in many.
I think “Mr. Kroenke” is our biggest problem. I think our “dynamic young GM” is a bean counter who has been told to not spend any beans. I am still not as down on Sacco as most people seem to be now, however.
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 10:29 AM MST up reply actions
This is all water under the bridge if the young core stays together and starts playing lights out in another couple years time. Salaries will go up and they’ll add one or three UFAs to fill the gaps.
My pitchfork (dubbed "Enos’ Enima) will rest next to my fireplace for at least another season and a half.
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 10:41 AM MST up reply actions
I’m not calling for the head of the “up-and-coming” coach as of yet, but he really needs to address some issues going into next season. He’s still a young coach, but he needs to adapt to the game and the situations better.
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 12:55 PM MST up reply actions
I agree, I see similarities with the Blackhawks.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
lots of similarities, we’ve both employed Craig Anderson and Tyler Arnason…. thats all i got
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 12:16 PM MST up reply actions
I don’t like you after long mornings.
"I’m going to make Doug Armstrong regret trading me" - Erik Johnson
me either. Fucking Ochem is ruining me
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 12:28 PM MST up reply actions
He coached both teams?
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 12:56 PM MST up reply actions
Yes
Yes he did…
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
by Avalanche318 on Mar 10, 2011 12:59 PM MST up reply actions
I'd call Sacco and Granato a wash
Granato had a season and a half as the head coach before 08-09. In 02-03 the Avs made the playoffs and won the division after a slow start that got the previous head coach (not two years removed from hoisting the Cup) fired. Got outcoached in the playoffs. In 03-04 he had a stacked squad but they dealt with injuries throughout. Got to the second round of the playoffs and the team made it a respectable competition against the Sharks only after being on the verge of a sweep. 08-09 speaks for itself.
Sacco came with a mediocre AHL record and got the team to the playoffs on the strength of an MVP year from Anderson. More strong Anderson goaltending in the playoffs had the Sharks sweating a bit but let’s be real… they dominated aside from goaltending. This year should speak for itself (though some choose not to listen).
Yeah Granato started with much more talent but his final year he could rightfully claim every excuse Sacco’s defenders can offer.
Yeah Granato started with much more talent but his final year he could rightfully claim every excuse Sacco’s defenders can offer.
Not the money issues (or lack thereof). Granato had a high priced team, Sacco has a bottle of pennies.
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 12:58 PM MST up reply actions
UH…..that should have been a quote, not a strike through…
Yeah Granato started with much more talent but his final year he could rightfully claim every excuse Sacco’s defenders can offer.
Not the money issues (or lack thereof). Granato had a high priced team, Sacco has a bottle of pennies.
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 12:58 PM MST up reply actions
The only thing that matters
The 2008-2009 Avalanche odds of making it into the playoffs – 0
The 2010-2011 Avalanche odds of making it into the playoffs – 0
Equally sucky
This season is pucked
Worst Losing Streak
2008-09 Avalanche: 8 games
20010-11 Avalanche: 10 games, and still plenty of time left to beat that
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
Throwing it out there….. Tucker would make this team better right now
It's All ABout the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 11:11 AM MST reply actions
FMALL.
(extra “AL” is “Av loving”)
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 11:22 AM MST up reply actions
no he wouldn’t you take that back you goddamn commie go wash your mouth out with soap and your fingers too goddammit
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
by thedoctor on Mar 10, 2011 11:31 AM MST up reply actions 1 recs
The avs have a plethora of 3rd-4th line guys.
Avalanche Shutouts are a powerful Aphrodisiac
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Mar 10, 2011 5:51 PM MST up reply actions
This made me laugh.
But the blueberry jerseys are their best jerseys. The road sweater is okay-ish.
Man, if only I ran this team…
=================== 21 ===================
Hmm...something's not quite right
Oh yeah. It needs to be larger. Just not big enough, Brax.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 11:53 AM MST up reply actions
fine, i’ll do it.
TWSS
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 12:00 PM MST up reply actions
Lemme see what I can do. I hear there’s plenty of unused billboard space in Denver…
=================== 21 ===================
by BraxtanFILM on Mar 10, 2011 12:00 PM MST up reply actions
Another thing
I feel like this team has been out of the race a LOT longer than in 08-09, so the heartache is a lot longer.
Living in the D, but It's All About The A.
08-09 one of our top prospects was Ryan Stoa
10-11 Our top prospect is:
Joey Hishon the Magician (as they call him in Brampton)
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 12:05 PM MST reply actions 2 recs
Owen Sound.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
ha ha ya thats what i mean
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 12:13 PM MST up reply actions
its been a long morning
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 12:13 PM MST up reply actions
why hasn’t he been playing lately, is he still suspended?
by avalanchejef on Mar 10, 2011 12:18 PM MST up reply actions
So who is 31 and has been prescribed cholesterol meds even though (outside of that) I am healthy as a horse? This guy…as long as we are talking about things that suck
Are you suggesting coconuts migrate?
Do you have to change your diet too? I would miss cheese immensely.
by MalachiConstant on Mar 10, 2011 12:41 PM MST up reply actions
for high cholesterol?
I was on a statin for probably the last 8 or 9 years to try to raise my good cholesterol. never worked though.
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Mar 10, 2011 12:48 PM MST up reply actions
2008-2009 Tyler Arnason plays center on the first line
2010-2011 Paul Stastny and Matt Duchene play center on the first line
Dude, that one says it all.
I'm Cameron Awesome and I play defense!
Avalanche Breakaway: a blog of hockey goodness
by Cheryl Bradley on Mar 10, 2011 12:46 PM MST reply actions
Oh fuck Canada, no offense Sandie. They are investigating the Chara hit? Give me a break.
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
The game took place in Canada?
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 1:02 PM MST up reply actions
Trying to avoid another push by Quebec for separation?
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 1:29 PM MST up reply actions
And now the owner wrote a letter about it. It’s a bunch of hypocritical, self-serving bullshit. Here’s Pacioretty doing worse to Mark Eaton. Fuck Les Habs, with their inflated sense of importance and their ridiculous fans.
Fuck Air Canada, too.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 3:44 PM MST up reply actions
Wow, that was brutal. Much more intentional. Much more dangerous (unless a turnbuckle gets involved). Seems like Paco has at least a little bit of Draper syndrome. Loves portraying himself as the ultimate victim but is really a dirty piece of shit on the ice (meant more for Draper, I don’t know enough about Paco).
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 3:53 PM MST up reply actions
Fuck Draper
"In my experience, there's no such thing as luck" -Obi Wan Kenobi
I don't understand the purpose of the line, "I don't need to drink
to have fun." Great, no one does. But why start a fire with flint and
sticks when they've invented the lighter?
Not even with a ten foot pole…
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 10, 2011 5:27 PM MST up reply actions
The Chara hit was too legit to quit. Fuck Air Canada. Virgin blows them away.
by Pinchy The Lobster on Mar 10, 2011 9:10 PM MST up reply actions
Tank Watch:
1. Edmonton Oilers 0 (14 GR)
2. Ottawa Senators +1 (16 GR)
3. Colorado Avalanche +6 (16 GR)
4. New York Islanders +8 (14 GR)
5. Florida Panthers +9 (15 GR)
.
.
Games to Watch Tonight
Ottawa @ Florida
Notes: You have to think Ottawa is going to win based off how Florida has played lately and how Anderson has played lately…
just send it to OT please
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 1:02 PM MST up reply actions
Have to say 08-09 was way worse…I actually like 90% of the roster of this years team and want them to stay
Behind Enemy Lines
I am curious, which two players would you ditch. I will assume Elliott is one of them?
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
$0.02
I’d lose the following:
Elliott
Koci
Yip
Cumiskey
And I’d put others on the bubble:
Porter
Galliardi
O’Reilly
Wilson
Holos
Hunwick
Winnick
If we can find better in FA this summer, or one of the prospects plays equal/better in pre-season, they’re gone.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 1:52 PM MST up reply actions
Porter is not a top 6 player…and Hunwick, for all his progression, his play took a nose dive when Foote came back…coincidence? Foote needs to go too.
Good point. I already have him retired in my head.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 1:56 PM MST up reply actions
Hunwick out, hold onto Yip but start him in the minors
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 1:56 PM MST up reply actions
I bubbled Hunwick because his play has improved lately. Yip has been a non-factor this year. He surprised people last year, but he was running on adrenaline. Same thing with Mauldin this year. He went great guns until he got used to the big show. Reality has set in. Game over.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 1:59 PM MST up reply actions
Yip showed enough potential, and is young enough that id be happy to let him develop some in Lake Eerie
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 2:01 PM MST up reply actions
I could live with a demotion for Yip, but from an NHL perspective, he’s not a kid anymore. He’ll be 26 by the time he tees-off for his first off-season round of golf.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 2:03 PM MST up reply actions
fair enough, i just see no reason to cast him out when there isnt a ready replacement, may as well see what he’s got left, take a chance that he can regain that NHL ability next season
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 2:05 PM MST up reply actions
If I was in Sherm’s shoes (oooh, comfy!) I would make the assumption that I absolutely need a 2nd-line defender, a 3rd line forward, a starting goalie, and a thug. I’d then look to upgrade either through prospects or free agency every player on the bubble.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 2:09 PM MST up reply actions
i’d like to see our current d play out next year before we make a big play there
Quincey-Johnson
Liles-ROB
Wilson, Guance, Holøs, Barrie, Elliott?
In all honesty i’m pretty happy with that lineup, just need a change in goaltending and a top 2 left winger
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 2:11 PM MST up reply actions
I’d like to find a defender to replace ROB. He’s been OK this year, but has a habit of taking bad penalties. Someone with some size and maybe a bit more mobility. He’s not Hal “The Redwood” Gill by any means, but I’d like a quicker defensive D-man on the second line. I’d roll ROB down to the 4th and pair him with one of the kids.
"It's all about the $"
by Busted Twigg on Mar 10, 2011 2:18 PM MST up reply actions
that said… its is a deep UFA pool for d-men. Potential UFA’s at D are:
Ed Jovanovski, Andrei Markov, Bryan McCabe, Scott Hannan, Eric Brewer, Tomas Kaberle, Joni Pitkanen, Kevin Bieksa, Sami Salo, James Wisniewski, Christian Ehrhoff, Jonathan Ericsson, Ian White, Steve Staios, Jim Vandermeer, Hal Gill, Nic Wallin, Craig Rivet, Brent Sopel, Jan Hejda, Kent Huskins, Shane O’Brien, Steve Montador, Anton Babchuk, Sean O’Donnell
bolded guys i’d like. I could see us signing a second pairing guy and dropping ROB to the 3rd pairing
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 2:21 PM MST up reply actions
I agree with your list minus Wisniewski, Jovo, Gill, and Sopel. Markov and Ehrhoff likely won’t make it to UFA though.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
Gill i could part with, but I do like Sopel and Jovo for this team. Wisniewski i go back and forth, he’d be the “affordable” option
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 2:45 PM MST up reply actions
I think you’ll see Hunwick held on to until either Barrie or Eliot comes up and takes a spot, ala Shatty.
Speaking of Shatty. I couldn’t sleep one night this week and played online. I looked at the WHL stats and some of the defenseman in that league over the past 15 years. What Eliot and Barrie are accomplishing makes me very confident they will be better in the NHL than Shatty is or will be.
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
Left handed D-men depth chart:
Quincey
Liles
Gaunce
Chouinard
Belle
Liffiton
Hunwick
Cumiskey
Hunwick and Cumiskey had better be long gone by training camp.
Jonas Holøs- Putting the Ø in defense since 2010!
by niwotsblessing on Mar 10, 2011 2:05 PM MST up reply actions
I’d really like to see O’Reilly stick around. I know we have McClement who is more experienced and is also a defensive minded center, but I have a feeling O’Reilly is only going to get better and better and will probably surpass McClement soon. Getting rid of him will be a mistake that will come back to haunt us IMO.
Jumpin' on the Johnson bandwagon
Good goalie. WHEN.
The Impossible: MAKE IT HAPPEN, SHERMAN
Eliott is the only “for sure” ditch
players i wouldn’t lose sleep over leaving/moving
Hunwick
Porter
Cumiskey
Yip
Koci
everyone else I like
Behind Enemy Lines
we rag on Porter a lot… but he’d be real valuable as depth on this team when we’re healthier
It's All About the $
by Cole D Hamilton on Mar 10, 2011 2:01 PM MST up reply actions
I’ve said it elsewhere, but I don’t get why people rag on Ports so much. He’s a solid player, great for depth. People get on his case about not being a top 6er, but who’s putting him there and why? If our legit top 6ers weren’t injured, Porter would be a bottom 6er. Put him on the fourth line with Dupuis and McLeod. A 4th line that is tough, hits, always leaves all they have on the ice, and can score? Yes, please.
I'm Cameron Awesome and I play defense!
Avalanche Breakaway: a blog of hockey goodness
by Cheryl Bradley on Mar 11, 2011 9:55 AM MST up reply actions 1 recs
I haven’t seen an Avs player since McLean that blows more scoring opportunities than him. Mind is willing, body is not. Very glaring, I see why he’s ragged on — but he was in the right place to begin with, so it’s a bit weird.
That said, I have no issue with him as a bottom 6er.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
Hunwick?
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 12, 2011 9:06 AM MST up reply actions
2010/2011 Sucks More.
Let me explain.
The 2008/2009 team came into the season with low expectations and did absolutely BRUTAL.
The 2010/2011 team came into the season expected to at least challenge for a playoff berth and did absolutely BRUTAL.
I would conclude that a team with higher expectations and identical results has been emotionally more draining, and since the actual results of the teams are nearly identical they can be considered a wash. It opens up the idea that the team that has induced more emotional harm can be said to suck more.
The 2010-2011 Avalanche - Driving up hits on www.beer.com all season!
by RyanO'Reilly FanClub on Mar 10, 2011 1:53 PM MST reply actions
Considering a mere two months ago, we were first in the division and 2 pts away from 1st in the West, yeah…this year hurts a lot more. Not to mention the apathetic way we’re losing games nowadays.
I’m with you. This season burns bad. 08-09 was pretty much expected.
Mile High Hockey: A lot more fun to watch than the Avalanche.
I’m pretty confident in saying that the team with Smyth, Sakic, and Hannan had much higher expectations than this year’s team.
Oh, wait – are you talking about how 70+ percent of MHHers overrated this team and predicted the playoffs at the beginning of this season? I thought you were talking about realistic expectations for a team that did nothing to improve itself in the off-season.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 2:06 PM MST up reply actions
Sorry Dan, but injuries were not in the equation when you estimate a team. If thats the case then no team is a playoff team. No Western team can have 350+ man games lost and be in the playoff picture.
This team, with even a normal average level of injuries is a playoff team. I stand by my estimation that it was a playoff caliber team at the start of the season.
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
It’s a very fair point, but I factored in injuries and was worried by the paper-thin forward depth. The near worst-case scenario has come to pass.
I also considered the prospect of underachievement by our young guys and the fact that Andy wouldn’t be Hercules again.
I agree with TheRed below, though – I didn’t think they’d be so close to last.
Finally, I wanna thank God, because God gave me this Dundie. And I feel God in this Chili's tonight.
by Dan Winkler on Mar 10, 2011 2:59 PM MST up reply actions
In the West, I should factor in injuries because they happen. Very very valid point. Talent-wise, playoff team. Actuality- no.
This team will be deeper next year and bigger defensively.
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
realistic expectations for a team that did nothing to improve itself in the off-season.
Got-dammit now you’re back with me?
We see a wonderful sun-soaked city nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Enos sees nickels and dimes.
by Bob in Boulder on Mar 10, 2011 2:20 PM MST up reply actions
I’m pretty confident in saying that the team with Smyth, Sakic, and Hannan had much higher expectations than this year’s team
agreed.
I picked them ninth this year, which I thought was reasonable (a slight drop in play from the previous year). I don’t think anyone predicted DFL for this team though.
"In my experience, there's no such thing as luck" -Obi Wan Kenobi
I don't understand the purpose of the line, "I don't need to drink
to have fun." Great, no one does. But why start a fire with flint and
sticks when they've invented the lighter?
“More emotionally draining” means the SEASON has been worse, not the team. They are two separate issues.
I'm Cameron Awesome and I play defense!
Avalanche Breakaway: a blog of hockey goodness
by Cheryl Bradley on Mar 11, 2011 9:56 AM MST up reply actions
Hard hitting investigative reporting per usual. A+
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
by Hardshell_Taco_del_Lowayne on Mar 10, 2011 3:47 PM MST reply actions
OT
but “Hensick shanks it from the ladies tees” from the blues/habs game has to be shared
Behind Enemy Lines
Which Team Sucks More?
Can I vote for the Wild?
Mile High Hockey: Command and Control for the 1st Avs Tank Battalion...
St. Louis Game Time: A Blog To Go And See Chris GODDAMN Stewart...
Na. Detroit.
Always Detroit.
Jumpin' on the Johnson bandwagon
Good goalie. WHEN.
The Impossible: MAKE IT HAPPEN, SHERMAN
FUCKAlwaysdetroit.
fixed!
Datsyuk may have done it first, but he learned it from Peter Forsberg.
Thanks for everything Foppa!
by Americanario on Mar 12, 2011 9:07 AM MST up reply actions
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