Goon's World

Memorial Day weekend

2013-05-24T22:15:00.002-05:00

No matter faith or origin, all @usarmy Soldiers are honored on Memorial Day in @arlingtonnatl by @the_old_guard twitter.com/The_Old_Guard/…
— The Old Guard (@The_Old_Guard) May 24, 2013

NCHC Forges New Standards for Officiating

2013-05-24T10:41:00.003-05:00

One of the issues that fans of the NCHC have been very concerned about is the officiating. Who’s going to be the officials? How are the games going to be called?

There has also been no consistency from game-to-game on how the games are officiated. Are the “big hits” going to be penalized?

In my opinion, college hockey officiating during the past few years has been shoddy at best; there have been a lot of blown calls with little explanation of why the calls were made. Legal checks have been called five minute majors. Obstruction and stick fouls in the offensive zone have gone uncalled. Line calls have been bad as well.

Yesterday, the NCHC released its “official” plan on how the league is going to supervise, train and manage their on-ice officials. On paper, it would appear that the new league is concerned about optics and doesn’t want to have a repeat of how the current WCHA manages its on-ice officials.

NCHC Press Release --- “One of the key goals for our conference is to develop one of the best officiating programs in the country,” Novak said.

Novak and Adam will select a group of up to 14 referees and 32 linesmen that will form the league’s first officiating staff. The majority of the referee staff will be selected from the collegiate ranks with others being hired from both the professional and major junior ranks. Once the NCHC’s referee staff is in place, they will take part in an in-depth, three-day training camp that will set the stage for the inaugural season. The league will also conduct three one-day linesman seminars, which will be in Minnesota, Colorado, and Michigan.

“We will extend our expectations to the officials before they come to camp and then provide them with very detailed and focused sessions once they do arrive,” Adam said. “We want to educate our officials in every way possible which includes, but is not limited to: skating, positioning, rules and interpretations, and the mental aspect of officiating. We will be utilizing video as a teaching tool throughout the season, while communicating with our officials on a regular basis. Our training program is a culmination of our collective officiating experience, which includes the collegiate, professional and international hockey levels. We will always strive to develop one of the best staffs in the country.”

The NCHC’s referee training camp and linesman seminars will be the foundation of a training program that can be built upon throughout the season. The second aspect of the officiating program consists of the addition of three supervisors who are located in key geographic locations for the league, in addition to Adam and Novak. This ensures that approximately 75 percent of all NCHC games will be supervised, allowing officials to learn on a more consistent basis.

“Our supervisory program is based upon a huge commitment from Jim Scherr and Joe Novak,” Adam said. “The fact that they have allowed for additional supervisors to evaluate games every weekend shows their commitment to the officiating program. Our supervisors will be an extension of Joe and I and our goal is to ensure that everyone is always on the same page from a teaching perspective.”

Ron Foyt, Mike Schmitt and Scott Zelkin have been selected to the NCHC’s first supervisory staff. This highly-respected trio brings a wealth of officiating experience to the new conference.

This is what I believe is "major" key as well. USHL Officials for instance have to be certified by the USA Hockey and I believe that the best of the best should be utilized to officiate college hockey games. You should not be selected based on who you’re related to or who you're friends with. You should be selected based on skill and knowledge, not on family lineage.

“As the NCHC begins its inaugural season, I’m truly honored to have the opportunity to work with the officiating staff,” Zelkin said. “The member institutions that make up the conference are some of the premier ice hockey programs in the United States and the staff that will be charged with officiating the games will be equally as strong. Helping to coach the officials to be the best they can possibly be during every game will be a privilege and I can hardly wait to begin working with Don and the rest of the staff.”

Along with establishing a knowledgeable and experienced group of officials for the present, the NCHC has plans to incorporate a system for developing officials. “Our league has already established a formidable relationship with Scott Brand and USA Hockey’s Junior Officiating Development Program” Adam said. “This relationship will assist us in identifying future collegiate officials.”

“We have been gaining input from both coaches and athletic directors regarding their opinions on what might assist in strengthening our officiating program,” Adam said. “Our mindset is that we are going to hire a quality staff with every official being capable of working any game during the season. Officials will have to earn their way into the NCHC playoffs and championship tournament. Selections will be based upon our implemented rating system.”

Now, this plan looks good when you read it on paper. Going forward, it will be interesting to see how this “actually” plays out, once it’s executed. If the NCHC employs the same usual suspects, we can name names, but I won’t, you know who I am talking about. Then this is nothing more than just fancy lip service.

If the NCHC employs the same brutal officials that have been officiating games for the WCHA, then the NCHC is going to have the same shoddy on ice product that the WCHA has had the last 4-5 seasons. We soon will find out. Developing...

Jonathan Toews high stick on Justin Abdelkader...Was this Embellishment?

2013-05-24T08:55:00.000-05:00

Former Fighting Sioux forward Jonathan Toews had a rough night for the Chicago Blackhawks, he beat a path to the penalty box, taking three minor penalties, this one was laughable based on some of the calls the on-ice officials have missed this season. Sure there was a penalty but, come on! Abdelkader sold this one big time with his Academy Award winning acting job. On this play, Johnny was assessed a two minute minor for high sticking Red Wings forward Justin Abdelkader. So, what do think? Was there was some embellishment on the play from Abdelkader? I do believe there was. Thoughts and feelings…

John Tortorella explains his decision to sit Brad Richards

2013-05-23T23:06:00.001-05:00

Classic John Tortorella, the guy is a gem. Earlier in the game, Torts was caught on audio cussing out a lines man and dropping the F-bomb. In the course of one night, Torts cussed out the on-ice officials and told the writers to kiss his ass and won a hockey, so he keeps his job for at least another day... It pretty much sounds like he's going to get fired if the Rangers don't make it out of the second round, if you believe the scuttlebutt that you read on the internet. Someone over on the Hockey Writers suggested that Tors coach the Maine Black Bears. Now I would love to see that.

More Torts: "I need to make decisions about what I feel is right for our team to win tonight's game, & that's why I made that decision"
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) May 24, 2013

Torts: "By no means is this a situation where I take him out and I'm blaming him...Brad Richards is a helluva hockey player"
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) May 24, 2013

Former Eagle Kreider saves Rangers bacon and forces game five against Bruins....

2013-05-23T22:50:00.000-05:00

It was the night of the former college hockey players and former B.C. Eagle Chris Kreider kept the New York Rangers slim playoff hopes alive as his game winning goal in overtime beat the Boston Bruins 4-3. In tonight's game.

Kreider the 5th college alum to score in tonight's NYR-BOS game, the 8th to score an OT goal in these playoffs.
— College Hockey, Inc. (@collegehockey) May 24, 2013

Derek Stepan scores goal off of Zdeno Chara miscue

2013-05-23T20:24:00.001-05:00

Boston Bruins all-world defenseman Zdeno Chara was lazy with the puck this time and it cost the Boston Bruins a goal. Rangers forward Derek Stephan was Johnny on the spot as he put the puck in the net before the Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask could get set on his post. Chara's untimely slipup/turnover caused the game to be tied again at 2-2.

Torey Krug and Carl Hagelin goals; Rangers vs Bruins game

2013-05-23T19:49:00.000-05:00

I have been doing a bi-weekly feature on the former college hockey players, that are currently playing in the 2013 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. Here's two former college hockey players that had an impact in tonight's game, between the Boston Bruins and the New York Rangers. First goal, Boston Bruins defenseman Torey Krug scored his third goal of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoff on the power play in his seventh NHL game. in four games with the Boston Bruins, Krug has scored (3g-1a—4pts) and in seven career games Krug has scored (3g-3a—6pts), that’s pretty impressive in my book.

Carl Hagelin answers the Torey Krug goal with this interesting goal almost a minute later. I am not sure that Tuukka Rask expected to slip and fall and give up that easy of a goal to the New York Rangers.

Any former #NotreDame player expect Torey Krug to be this much of an offensive weapon in NHL?I know he tied TJ for scoring title but wow.
— Darin Pritchett (@Sportsbeat960) May 24, 2013

Hilarious tweet from a Rangers fan at Tort's expense

2013-05-23T19:17:00.001-05:00

Torts and his potential final goodbye w/ cameo from the $6M scratched man (@pezdoy @justindoy) twitter.com/MikeDarnay/sta…
— Mike Darnay (@MikeDarnay) May 24, 2013

This is a funny picture that was on twitter. It would be funny if Torts did this during his post game press conference.

Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/23/2013)

2013-05-23T17:17:00.000-05:00

NHL's Stanley Cup. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Here is the list of NHL hockey players that are currently playing in the second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffsthat have played college hockey (Division I & III).

The players are listed by their NHL team. These are players that have played in at least “one” Stanley Cup Playoff game during in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs. I have also listed their point totals as well.

This list doesn’t include players from teams that have been eliminated. The list doesn’t include players that are currently injured, or on their teams roster, but haven’t played in the Stanley Cup Playoff games yet. I will update the list as much as I can.

Points Lead changes hands

We have a tightening at the top of the points standings. Former Vermont Catamout and current Chicago Blackhawk forward Patrick Sharp (6g-4a—10pts) is tied for the lead with former Wisconsin Badgers and current San Jose Shark forward Joe Pavelski (4g-6a—10pts).

Here’s how the rest of the top five for former college hockey players, currently playing in the Stanley Cup playoffs shakes out.

In third place; the Pittsburgh Penguins have a pair of players, former Gopher defenseman Paul Martin (2g-7a—9pts) is tied team mate former Ferris State Bull Dog forward Chris Kunitz (4g-5a—9pts).

Ottawa Senators forwards, former Notre Dame Irish forward Erik Condra (1g-6a—7pts) is tied for fifth with teammate former Wisconsin Badgers forward Kyle Turris (5g-2a—7pts)

1. Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 8GP, (6g-4a—10pts)

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 8GP, (4g-6a—10pts)

3. Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 10GP, (2g-7a—9pts)

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 10GP, (4g-5a—9pts)

5. Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 9GP, (1g-6a—7pts)

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 9GP, (5g-2a—7pts)

The Wisconsin Badgers are well represented in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs; if my math is correct they have six players that are still currently playing in the second round of the SCP.

If I have forgotten a player on this list feel free to drop me a line at thegoon48@gra.midco.net

Boston Bruins (3)

Torey Krug, D, Michigan State, 3GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Matt Bartkowski, D, Ohio State, 5GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Richard Peverley, F, St. Lawrence University, 9GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Chicago Blackhawks (6)

Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 8GP, (6g-4a—10pts)

Duncan Keith, D, Michigan State, 8GP, (1g-5a—6pts)

Jonathon Toews, F, North Dakota, 8GP, (0g-3a—3pts)

Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota, 8GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Victor Stalberg, F, Vermont, 6GP, (0G-1A—1pts)

Brandon Bollig, F, St. Lawrence, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Detroit Red Wings (6)

Gustav Nyquist, F, Maine, 10GP, (2g-2a—4pts)

Brendan Smith, F, Wisconsin, 10GP, (2g-2a—4pts)

Justin Abdelkader, F, Michigan State, 8GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Patrick Eaves, F, Boston College, 9GP, (0g-2a—1pts)

Danny Dekeyser, D, Western Michigan, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jimmy Howard, G, Maine, 6-4, .923 SV%, 2.43 GAA

LA Kings (5)

Dustin Penner, F, Maine, 10GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Alec Martinez, D, Miami, 6Gp, (0g-2a—2tps)

Rob Scuderi, D, Boston College, 10GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Matt Greene, D, North Dakota, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jonathan Quick, UMass, 10GP, 6-4, .944 SV% 1.64 GAA

New York Rangers (6)

Carl Hagelin, F, Michigan, 10GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Brian Boyle, F, Boston College, 10GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Derek Stepan, F, Wisconsin, 10GP, (3g-0a—2pts)

Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin, 10GP, (1g-2a—3pts)

Chris Kreider, F, Boston College, 6GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Darroll Powe, F, Princeton, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Ottawa Senators (6)

Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 9GP, (1g-6a—7pts)

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 9GP, (5g-2a—7pts)

Cory Conacher, F, Canisius College 7GP, (3g-0a—3pts)

Colin Greening, F, Cornell, 9GP, (3g-0a—3pts)

Eric Gryba, D, Boston University, 4Gp, (0g-0a—0pts)

Patrick Wiercioch, D, Denver, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Pittsburgh Penguins (9)

Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 10GP, (2g-7a—9pts)

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 10GP, (4g-5a—9pts)

Douglas Murray, D, Cornell, 10GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Mark Eaton, D, Notre Dame, 6GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Matt Niskanen, D, Duluth, 10GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Craig Adams, F, Harvard, 10GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tanner Glass, F, Dartmouth, 5GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Beau Bennett, F, Denver, 4GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Brooks Orpik, D, Boston College, 7GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

San Jose Sharks (8)

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 8GP, (4g-6a—10pts)

Dan Boyle, D, Miami, 8GP, (2g-4a—6pts)

Tommy Wingels, F, Miami, 8GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Justin Braun, D, UMass, 8GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Irwin, D, UMass, 8GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

T.J. Galiardi, F, Dartmouth, 8GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tim Kennedy, F, Michigan State, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Adam Burish, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Cross-posted at the Hockey Writers Combine.

Where are is all the antipathy coming from in regards to UND head coach Dave Hakstol

2013-05-23T11:40:00.000-05:00

Recently, ESPN posted an article that was written by Craig Custance on their Internet site (subscription required) about possible future coaching candidates for NHL and AHL jobs. UND head coach Dave Hakstol was listed as the top college coach candidates by Custance. I mean, it makes sense to me. I have always been a big advocate of coach Hakstol’s work and I think he’s a very good college hockey coach.

Naturally, UND Hockey beat writer Brad Schlossman posted a quote from the article on his media blog. Why not? The head coach of the team you cover just made a major publication and he’s getting major props. Kind of blows up the Hakstol hater’s story line as well.

Almost on cue, the haters came out to post their displeasure and thoughts about coach Hakstol. It’s funny how brave people become when they can hide behind the anonymity of a computer screen and a fake name. None of these people, would have the guts to say these things to Dave’s face.

Top college coach candidate

Dave Hakstol, North Dakota — He runs the powerhouse North Dakota college hockey program, one that continues to pump out NHL players such as Jonathan Toews, T.J. Oshie, Travis Zajac, Drew Stafford and Matt Greene.

“This guy is really intelligent,” said one NHL source. “I think he’s got a pro mind.”

Hakstol signed a six-year contract in 2012 that would keep him behind the bench in North Dakota through 2017-18 and said his focus is on sustaining his success there.

“I have a high level of respect for the guys who are able to produce successful and sustainable results at the NHL level. At some point in my career if I was able to earn an opportunity to work with a good organization, it would be a consideration,” Hakstol wrote in an email on Monday when asked whether he has NHL interest. “All that being said, I don’t spend much time thinking about hypotheticals. I feel like our entire staff has been around the game long enough to have a real appreciation for what we have here and has a commitment to producing that long-term success and sustainability at UND.”

So if you look at Coach Hakstol’s impressive resume, he’s lacking “one thing” an NCAA title. My question is; does this impressive resume deserve this much scrutiny, angst and antipathy? I don’t know, I don’t believe it does.

Years at UND: 9
235-119-37 (.648)
NCAA Appearances: 9
NCAA Frozen Four Appearances: 5
NCAA Championship Appearances: 1
WCHA Final Five Appearances: 9
WCHA Final Five Championships: 4
WCHA Final Five Championship Appearances: 5
WCHA MacNaughton Cup Championships: 2

I guess I don’t understand where the flames of discontent are coming from? The coaching staff at the University of North Dakota is second to none. All three coaches played hockey at UND. All three coaches have played professionally in the NHL, AHL or IHL, so they have the experience necessary to play at the next level. Dane Jackson (AHL) and Brad Berry (NHL) have coach in the professional ranks. Not a lot of Division I hockey programs can make that claim.

Cross-posted at the Hockey Writers Combine...

Did the Kings get screwed?

2013-05-22T00:18:00.000-05:00

Wow! Looks like a blown call that went in the San Jose Sharks favor. I am not a fan of either team, but I want to see the games called correctly. It appears that Dustin Penner had scored a goal.

A few of the deleted tweets from the Kings Twitter Feed

2013-05-21T23:45:00.000-05:00

Here are a few of the tweets that were deleted from the L.A. Kings Twitter that were posted by account by @thekevinryder You have to wonder what the L.A. Kings were thinking when they let a Disc Jockey from a local radio station in L.A. do tweets for a period. The L.A. Kings are a first class organization. Here is the link to the radio station and it says, "Tonight, Kevin will also take over the Kings’ official twitter account for the 2nd period of the game."

L.A. Kings let fan tweet for them for a period. Not a really good call.

2013-05-21T23:23:00.000-05:00

We apologize for the tweets that came from a guest of our organization. They were inappropriate and do not reflect the LA Kings.
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

This is what I'm talking about! - @thekevinryder RT @melvitomartinez: @lakings refuse to lose hope. #gokingsgo
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

Trivia time: What year did the @sanjosesharks win the Stanley Cup? Give up? Me too. I can’t see the future. - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

The L.A. Kings let a fan tweet for a period for them during tonight's game, I bet they don't do that again anytime soon. Check it out the ones that weren't deleted by the Kings. There was a tasteless tweet that made a joke about being raped that has since been deleted you can see it at the link provided.

just for the record, the Kings have been out shot by the Sharks in every game of this series. Badly. Find a way to win. - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

(1 of 2) “This is L.A.” by the Briggs used by the Kings. The Ducks, use…hang on, let me find a Ducks game. Be right back… - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

If they're reading my tweets we have bigger problems. RT@suemenval: @lakings @thekevinryder 2 periods to go...show the boys some positivity!
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

Jonathan Quick, like last year, is keeping us in it. Plus he punched a dude. @thekevinryder RT @lbchopshop: Angry Quick is hot. And angry.
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

This is Kevin from the Kevin and Bean show on KROQ. Tough game to do a Twitter takeover. Sharks 1-0. #GoKingsGo - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

I’ll let @genamazzeo introduce me: twitter.com/kingestkong/st… - @thekevinryder
— LA Kings (@LAKings) May 22, 2013

(Video) Bruins Merlot line lead B's to a 3-0 Series lead

2013-05-21T22:45:00.000-05:00

The Boston Bruins have pushed the New York Rangers to the brink of elimination, with a 2-1 victory over the New York Rangers, Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden. The Bruins erased a 1-0 Rangers lead in the third period with goals from Johnny Boychuk and Daniel Paille.

I don’t know how you could describe Paille’s miraculous goal, the goal came off a goofy rebound that should have found its way into the net, but had eyes. Seriously, you have to see this goal to believe it. The puck that was shot by Gregory Campbell looked like it came off the face of a sand wedge and had some serious back-spin on it. If I was going to describe it, the puck’s movement looked more like Titleist Pro V1 golf than a hockey puck. The puck was going towards the goal line – hit the goal line and spun back like it was hit by Tiger Woods. The puck never broke the plane until Paille put the puck past Henrik Lundqvist on the rebound, for the game winning goal.

I know some people are sick of hearing about the fourth line, but you can see that the Merlot line had the majority of the points for the Boston Bruins tonight, Shawn Thornton (0g-2a—2pts), Gregory Campbell (0g-1a—1pts), Daniel Paille (1g-1a—2pts). Boston Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk also got his fourth goal of the playoffs tonight as well.

New Drinking game. Everytime Pierre McGuire mentions the Bruins fourth line drink a beer, you will not be sober by the end of the game.
— Eric J. Burton (@goon48) May 22, 2013

Zdeno Chara gets hit in the face by Ryan Callahan, no call on the play

2013-05-21T19:56:00.000-05:00

The Officiating has been poor in the Stanley Cup Playoffs this year, there is no doubt about it. This is an obvious high stick by Rangers forward Ryan Callahan on Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara that went uncalled, that should drawn a double minor penalty. Four officials on the ice and no one saw it. The Officials did manage to call a very weak penalty on Jaromir Jagr that was much less serious than this.

Second Round: Former College Hockey Players in the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs (5/21/2013)

2013-05-21T11:21:00.001-05:00

Here is the list of NHL hockey players that are currently playing in the second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs that have played college hockey (Division I & III).

Points Lead changes hands

Former Vermont Catamout forward Patrick Sharp leads all former college hockey players with (6g-4a—10pts). In second place, Wisconsin Badgers forward Joe Pavelski, (4g-5a—9pts) is tied with former Gopher defenseman Paul Martin (2g-7a—9pts). In fourth place former Ferris State forward Chris Kunitz, (3g-4a—7pts) is tied with Notre Dame forward Erik Condra (1g-6a—7pts).

The Wisconsin Badgers are well represented in the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs; if my math is correct they have six players that are still currently playing in the second round of the SCP.

If I have forgotten a player on this list feel free to drop me a line at hegoon48@gra.midco.net

Boston Bruins (3)

Torey Krug, D, Michigan State, 2GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Matt Bartkowski, D, Ohio State, 4GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Richard Peverley, F, St. Lawrence University, 8GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Chicago Blackhawks (6)

Patrick Sharp, F, Vermont, 8GP, (6g-4a—10pts)

Duncan Keith, D, Michigan State, 8GP, (1g-5a—6pts)

Jonathon Toews, F, North Dakota, 8GP, (0g-3a—3pts)

Nick Leddy, D, Minnesota, 8GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Victor Stalberg, F, Vermont, 6GP, (0G-1A—1pts)

Brandon Bollig, F, St. Lawrence, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Detroit Red Wings (6)

Gustav Nyquist, F, Maine, 10GP, (2g-2a—4pts)

Brendan Smith, F, Wisconsin, 10GP, (2g-2a—4pts)

Justin Abdelkader, F, Michigan State, 8GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Patrick Eaves, F, Boston College, 9GP, (0g-2a—1pts)

Danny Dekeyser, D, Western Michigan, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Jimmy Howard, G, Maine, 6-4, .923 SV%, 2.43 GAA

LA Kings (4)

Dustin Penner, F, Maine, 9GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Alec Martinez, D, Miami, 9Gp, (0g-2a—2tps)

Rob Scuderi, D, Boston College, 9GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Jonathan Quick, UMass, 8GP, 6-3, .947 SV% 1.60 GAA

New York Rangers (6)

Carl Hagelin, F, Michigan, 9GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Brian Boyle, F, Boston College, 8GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Derek Stepan, F, Wisconsin, 9GP, (3g-0a—2pts)

Ryan McDonagh, D, Wisconsin, 9GP, (1g-1a—2pts)

Chris Kreider, F, Boston College, 5GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Darroll Powe, F, Princeton, 3GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Ottawa Senators (6)

Erik Condra, F, Notre Dame, 8GP, (1g-6a—7pts)

Kyle Turris, F, Wisconsin, 8GP, (4g-2a—6pts)

Cory Conacher, F, Canisius College 7GP, (3g-0a—3pts)

Colin Greening, F, Cornell, 8GP, (3g-0a—3pts)

Eric Gryba, D, Boston University, 4Gp, (0g-0a—0pts)

Patrick Wiercioch, D, Denver, 1GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Pittsburgh Penguins (9)

Paul Martin, D, Minnesota, 9GP, (2g-7a—9pts)

Chris Kunitz, F, Ferris State, 9GP, (3g-5a—8pts)

Douglas Murray, D, Cornell, 9GP, (2g-1a—3pts)

Mark Eaton, D, Notre Dame, 5GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Matt Niskanen, D, Duluth, 9GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Craig Adams, F, Harvard, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tanner Glass, F, Dartmouth, 5GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Beau Bennett, F, Denver, 3GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

Brooks Orpik, D, Boston College, 6GP, (1g-0a—1pts)

San Jose Sharks (8)

Joe Pavelski, F, Wisconsin, 7GP, (4g-5a—9pts)

Dan Boyle, D, Miami, 7GP, (2g-3a—5pts)

Tommy Wingels, F, Miami, 7GP, (0g-2a—2pts)

Justin Braun, D, UMass, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Matt Irwin, D, UMass, 7GP, (0g-1a—1pts)

Tim Kennedy, F, Michigan State, 2GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Adam Burish, F, Wisconsin, 4GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

T.J. Galiardi, F, Dartmouth, 7GP, (0g-0a—0pts)

Cross-posted @ the Hockey Writers Combine.

(Video) Patrick Kane goal and did Johan Franzen take a dive?

2013-05-20T21:28:00.000-05:00

Nice goal by Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane. One of the lone bright spots in tonight's game for the Blackhawks. The Redwings proved to be the better team again for a second game in a row.

If you’re a fan of either team, you might not be the one to ask. Watch the video; I want to see if anyone else is seeing this as well. It appears that Detroit forward Johan Franzen embellished this hit just a bit; I am not saying he wasn't hit from behind, because he was. But in my opinion, I think that Franzen could have received an academy award for his acting ability. Thoughts... Should the refs blown the whistle on the play? In my opinion, I thought the refs made the right call my not blowing the play dead. Feel free to disagree if you like.

Big story of the afternoon: Jim Scherr might be leaving the NCHC

2013-05-20T20:47:00.000-05:00

The "big story" to break this afternoon is that NCHC commissioner Jim Scherr might be leaving the NCHC to take another job. Okay, more power to Commissioner Scherr for possibly getting another opportunity, I have never faulted anyone that has had an opportunity to better themselves and move on.

Brad Schlossman, Grand Forks Herald -- Prior to joining the NCHC, Scherr was the chief executive officer of the U.S. Olympic Committee.

UND athletic director Brian Faison, the chair of the NCHC board of directors, said he’s aware of Scherr’s discussions with “another job opportunity,” but says nothing has been finalized yet.

“The NCHC board of directors is well aware that commissioner Scherr has been approach with another job opportunity,” Faison said in a statement. “The recent published reports that Jim has already accepted a position are erroneous. He has been forthcoming with information regarding a competing bid for his services. Since this is an internal personnel matter, the conference will offer no further comment at this time.”

No matter what the NCHC does, there are going to be the distractors and haters. That is just a fact of life. To these haters, nothing the league does is going to change their opinion. Some of the haters are the foam at the mouth variety. The fact that the University of North Dakota is involved in the NCHC makes their foaming at the mouth a bonus. All it is; is blind hatred and jealousy. That's what this boils down to.

There were a lot of people that are upset with what transpired two summer ago and will always hold a grudge towards the way things were handled. I don't blame them, it could have been handled better. Maybe the optics were that great and there were a few glitches getting the league off of the ground but none of them have marveled the WCHA's questionable tournament marketing scheme.

That being said, there are some that just can't help themselves. I have had a lot of discussion with other fans, bloggers and media types about the formation of the NCHC. It's water over the bridge. None of us were asked for our opinion, so really we're just bystanders.

So how does that affect the average fan that will be watching college hockey this fall and winter. Won't mean a thing. The fans are going to go the game no matter who is running the league office.

(VIDEO) Viktor Stalberg misses check on the wings Jakub Kindl

2013-05-20T19:54:00.000-05:00

Ouch! That has to hurt... This is the end result of Viktor Stalberg’s attempted check on Detroit defenseman Jakub Kindl, as you can see by the video, the Red Wings defenseman moved at last second and Stalberg whiffed on the attempted hit.

(Video) Brooks Orpik hit on Chris Neil

2013-05-19T22:55:00.001-05:00

This is the hit that Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik put on Ottawa Senators forward Chris Neil. There was no penalty called on the play, in my opinion, this was a dangerous hit, but not necessarily dirty, but dangerous.

If you're a fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins you probably think this is a good hockey play. If you're a fan of the Senators, you probably wanted a penalty on the play. The head coach of the Ottawa Sentors Paul MacLean didn't like the play and was unhappy about on the players bench. I suppose in the regular season, there might have been a penalty called on the hit, it's a what we call a push check, a form of checking from behind. What do others think of the hit?

#TribHKY >> Neil lost footing, Orpik give him good shove during his fall. #pens #sens
— Rob Rossi (@RobRossi_Trib) May 20, 2013

Chris Neil.....hi...you're injured!
— Injury Ninja (@InjuryNinja) May 20, 2013

Like Lucic's hit on Gunnarson, that's a penalty a month ago.
— Joe Meloni (@JoeMeloni) May 20, 2013

John Tortorella speaks after the Rangers Game 2 loss to the Bruins

2013-05-19T21:51:00.004-05:00

Video courtesy of our friends at Bruins Daily, stop by and visit their blog, you won't be disappointed. This is one of the longer press conferences you will probably see from New York Rangers head coach John Tortorella. This post game presser lasted a grand total of 02:14, that's pretty impressive if you ask me.

(Video) Boychuk, Marchand and Lucic goals... Bruins 5 Rangers 2

2013-05-19T17:37:00.001-05:00

English: 37 Patrice Bergeron (C, BOS) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Boston Bruins took the New York Rangers to the woodshed today. It appears that the Bruins might have been a bit off or even worn out from their screwed up schedule in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

One my friends – a great hockey mind – told me that the Boston Bruins were lucky to win their first round series against the Maple Leafs. This is a fact that I agree with.

I have said on a couple occasion that I think that the Boston Bruins slept walked through the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Bruins looked tired and didn't have any energy in their step, that all seems to have changed now. I don't know if the Bruins are more rested or of they have found a second gear. I am not sure what is going on here, but the Boston Bruins are playing better.

In the second round so far, the Bruins top six forwards have been absolutely awesome. In the first round, many of us were ready to send out a search party for them.

Boston Bruins forward Brad Marchand had another two point game (1g-1a—2pts) and now has five points in his last three games (2g-3a—5pts) after only scoring two points in the first round against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Patrice Bergeron is starting to find his game as well and has been red hot as of late as well… Bergy has (2g-4a—6pts) in the last three games after scoring just a single point in the first five games that he played in.

(Video) Torey Krug scores his second goal in two games for the Bruins

2013-05-19T14:44:00.000-05:00

Make that two goals in two games for Boston Bruins rookie defenseman, Torey Krug. The Livonia, Michigan product has played in a grand total of five NHL games and has two NHL goals, both in this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs.

05:28 BOS T. KRUG (2) SNAP - ASST: N. HORTON (5) AND D. KREJCI (10)

With an assist on Krug's goal, Krejci put himself back in first in playoff scoring with 15 points (5g, 10a), one ahead of Evgeni Malkin ^CS
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) May 19, 2013

2013 Memorial Cup American National Anthem Screw Up, Anthems in general...

2013-05-19T00:22:00.000-05:00

This is the American National Anthem that was sung before the Portland and Halifax game at the 2013 Memorial Cup. The woman singing the anthem is Alexis Normand, apparently she didn’t know the words to the American anthem, maybe she shouldn’t have sang it. This is a joke, the players on the bench are laughing at her... I guess, I would expect better, especially during the Memorial Cup.

I'm embarrassed and deeply sorry. I wish I'd had more time to learn the American anthem. Thanks so much for the crowd's help! #memorialcup
— Alexis Normand (@Alex6Normand) May 19, 2013

But that isn’t the only place that this happens, I went to the races at River Cities Speedway on Friday night and woman the sang the Canadian and American Anthems was absolutely brutal, and shouldn’t been singing the either anthem and offended two countries with her brutal renditions. It was absolutely disgusting. It does matter.

At least the woman that miss sang the American anthem can actually sing, this woman that sang the anthem at the races on Friday night, couldn’t sing at all. Why is it a big deal? The American and Canadian anthems are serious songs and both countries have proud, rich histories and traditions. So yeah, I do think it’s important to give both countries anthems respect. I would rather hear a band or a recording of of the anthems then listen to someone slaughter the American and or Canadian anthems.

The woman that sang the anthems before the races offended two countriestonight. Absolutely brutal.
— Eric J. Burton (@goon48) May 18, 2013

Max Domi hammers Shane McColgan

2013-05-18T11:47:00.003-05:00

Wow! What a hard clean hit by the London Knights forward Max Domi on Saskatoon Blades forward Shane McColgan. This is Domi's draft year and he's a players that will probably get drafted this pretty high this summer in the 2013 NHL draft. The Memorial Cup is on the NHL network May 17-26 May.

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