Thursday, May 31, 2007

Senators vs. Ducks: Round 4, Game 2

Ducks 1, Senators 0

PRESIDENT'S 2 CENTS: It's now been beaten to death in ad nauseam fashion, but yes, Ottawa's boys have now lost two regulation games in row for the first time since Santa Claus was making the rounds. Bad thing is, it's happened in the first two games of the Cup final. And boy, did Ray Emery almost steal one for the Sens and gift-wrap it for his team, which struggled mightily again. If anything, Razor's performance proves two thing for sure: not only did he have his best game of the postseason, he also clearly proved, once and for all, that he is a bona-fide, elite, number-one backstopper that can lead a team to a championship. Plain and simple. How about that midair grab in the third? He's surely in contention for a gold glove award too. Come to think of it, the Yankees are 13 or so games behind the Red Sox, and Razor likes the Big Apple's nightlife. The Yanks should make a run at the star Ottawa netminder, who's a free agent come July ... And for the second game in a row, despite being outplayed, the Sens nearly hung on to squeak out a W. Ducks D Sean O’Donnell—in cruel irony, an Ottawa native—made the save of the series when he swatted Peter Schaefer’s otherwise guaranteed tying marker harmlessly off to the side. Moments later, Jason Spezza, Joe Corvo, and Alfie miss glorious chances. The hardest part? Eventually Ottawa wouldn’t get the bounces to go their way, and it just has to happen in the final … Another strong game into the books from giant blueliner Chris Pronger, who along with the Ducks’ shutdown line continues to make life miserable for the Sens. One subtle example was during a second-period power play rush, when Schaefer tried to scoot the puck in along the half boards, where all it took was a slight bump from Pronger to knock Pistol Pete off his trajectory. Unfortunately this example was one of many. Memo to the Sens: please get it in deep and forecheck. Pond hockey will not work in the final, even at the Pond ...

... Yet again, the Pahlsson-Niedermayer-Moen line was fantastic against the Cash(less) Line, which was a combined minus-3 and had six shots on net. The fact that Pahlsson got the game-winner was extra significant, since he had Spezza's number at the faceoff dot. The Spezz Dispenser, normally no slouch on draws, won three of 13, good for 18 percent. Pahlsson blew him out of the water, with an 83 percent showing on 10-and-2. The goal itself was significant too, as the Ducks jumped on Dany Heatley's one registered giveaway of the game (one of 21 to the Ducks' 22) and Sammy potted it ... Speaking of potting it, besides the Schaefer chance at the end, the Sens really should have potted something on their second 5-on-3 in as many games. Mike Comrie should have converted that one-timer, but Giggy would have none of it ... Speaking of Tiny Mike, his first-period cross check on Ryan Getzlaf was pretty much revenge for him taking exactly the same punishment from Getzlaf in Game 1. Not good Mike. Scoring is the best payback ...

… Great CBC camera work in the first period, catching Christoph Schubert taking the puck off the boards and, in the words of Greg Millen “placing it carefully down.” A deft touch shown by the hard-hitting German. Speaking of CBC though, as Canada’s national broadcaster, couldn’t the opening montage have shown just a little less Duck highlights? … A deft touch certainly was not evident when Mike Fisher knocked down Corey Perry in front of the Ottawa net not once, not twice, but five times before finally being sent to the sin bin. Disciplined, physical play is what made Slewfoot successful, and now more than ever it’s needed. You can do better, Mike … Wade Redden struggled again for much of the night, but did show flashes of veteran brilliance again in a first-period penalty kill, where he took two separate hits to make two clearing plays. He’s a top-10 defenceman in this league when he skates his hardest … Speaking of skating hard, the Ducks are not only big, but obviously move with a purpose. After a third-period Fisher hit, the transition to a scoring chance on the other end was impressive. Proof positive? Shots on goal were 27-11 at one point. Pretty one-sided and not indicative of the stereotype of big and slow … AC-DC’s “You Shook Me All Night Long,” played during a third-period stoppage, was perhaps a subtle swipe at the Sens by the Honda Center DJ. Because of the Ducks’ fantastic D, you could change the first lyric to “Sens weren’t a fast machine.” …

… Anton Volchenkov’s hit on Corey Perry, for which he was penalized, was really not a penalty. Perry, perhaps intentionally, turned his head at the last second if maybe to draw the boarding call. If so, that was smart but really foolhardy … Bob Cole Line of the Night: “Giguere goes out from his net, you hope he’s right,” he observed during a delayed penalty call against the Sens, when the Ducks clearly had possession of the puck … Don Cherry Suit Rating: a perfect 10 out of 10, for only the second time this postseason! The flowery blazer was retro and slick, as well as very hip and seasonal, but most importantly, it was daring. Grapes pulled it off though … Last but not least: the Cash Line has got to come through at home. Last change is great, but Jason Spezza absolutely needs to win offensive-zone draws to prevent Randy Carlyle from throwing out the Pahlsson line on the fly. That being said, the power play and secondary scoring have to wake up too and pressure the Ducks into more Sens-friendly bounces. There have been several, but they need to continue for the Sens to have any chance for more California dreamin’.

Monday, May 28, 2007

Senators vs Ducks: Round 4, Game 1

Ducks 3, Senators 2

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: Quack. After hanging on just hard enough to force extra time, the Sens literally lost by misplaced momentum. Andrej Meszaros had Rob Niedermayer lined up, but just couldn’t get enough mustard on the hit. Nieder(oscar)mayer, of course, broke free and made a hot dog of a pass over to Travis Moen, who made no mistake, beating Ray Emery in similar fashion to the Andy McDonald goal in the first period. Blame the Sens’ long layoff if you will, but the Ducks recovered nicely from two deficits to take this thing by the horns in the third and win in regulation. Perhaps the high blocked shot count (22 to the Ducks’ 13) was one of the clearest indications that the Sens, who spent most of the first and second periods limiting second chances, were on their heels. To no one’s surprise, Anton Volchenkov led the way, blocking 10 pucks. However, block of the game goes to Chris Kelly, who bravely got in the way of a Chris Pronger point shot. He took that one in the chest area … Ryan Getzlaf may have been the game’s first star thanks largely to that slick five-hole move on Razor, but he’s also still maturing in the discipline department. Did the 6-3, 211-pound power forward really think he was going to get away with three clear cross-checks on Tiny Mike Comrie? Also, don’t forget the subtle shot he took at Razor after a third-period dump-in. Think he’s pushing the zebras’ buttons? … On the subject, Razor was probably the best Senator tonight. Especially on the Anaheim power plays, he made some key stops when his team really needed it. Perhaps his most clutch stop came when Daniel Alfredsson turned over the biscuit at his own blue line, Selke finalist Samuel Pahlsson bumped him, sending in Travis Moen in alone, only to be denied by Razor’s right pad. When the hard-working captain makes a turnover like that, you know a big save to negate it is a significant one … While talking defence, you can’t broach the subject completely without mentioning Chris Phillips, who turned in another solid performance. Besides being credited with three hits and blocking three shots, Big Rig was smart in his own end too, notably on a Sens’ penalty kill following the Ducks’ momentum-stirring, tying goal when he tied up Teemu Selanne’s stick just enough to prevent a yawning 6x4 from swallowing another. Tom Preissing had chipped in minutes before with a twisting-up of the ever-dangerous Corey Perry. Defence wins championships, and the Sens will take plays like these in their back pocket … Despite scoring, Wade Redden had his struggles in his own end and didn’t hustle to enough pucks. Like Bryan Murray had said, if Wade skates, he’ll be fine. Count on it for next game …

… So the Cash Line was held to five shots, was a combined minus-3, and registered zero goals and two assists. The Ducks’ checking unit, led by Samuel Pahlsson, helped negate the three amigos, especially so at the blue line … After the second-period 5-on-3 power play, the Sens and Ducks took part in a wide-open, hit-filled, energy-sapping free-for-all. You could argue the tables turned at this point, as a two-man advantage for 95 seconds should really result in a goal. Well, it didn’t, and the Ducks forced the smaller Sens into a hit parade. Normally the Sens like to play along that way, but the consistent forecheck seemed to dwindle a bit from there on in. Twas unfortunate for Ottawa, which drew some key penalties by outhustling the Ducks early on … Mike Fisher has a hard shot. Not even Jean-Sebastien Giguere could swallow a second-period quick wrister from Slewfoot. In this case, Giggy was getting “giggly” with it. Giggy, of course, didn’t see much action all night (20 shots) and couldn’t find the biscuit on that first bunker shot which found the green. Even Mike Comrie, who was originally credited for the goal, choked up on his stick like you would on a wedge for a short chip. It was kind of funny how the Honda Center sound people played “Start Me Up” a few whistles later, followed by “Get Ready.” Well, ready Giggy wasn’t to start this one. However, he did also have his share of bad luck on the second goal, where he lost his lumber before Redden blasted in the disc. In fact, Dany Heatley appeared to subtly try to interfere with the handoff when Giggy tried to get it back from his defenceman …

… Statistician Blooper of the Night: how did Patrick Eaves, who in the first half of the game seemed to have more hits than the Beatles, not get credited with a single smack on the scoresheet? The Ducks officially outhit Ottawa 30-21, but you can bet more Ducks’ hits didn’t make it onto paper either … One player credited with three hits (and nearly a first-period goal) was veteran Ducks forward Brad May. One was on Chris Neil, who flashed that million-dollar “I’m not scared of you” smile at May (and for the cameras) during two separate stoppages … Don Cherry Suit Rating: seven out of 10. Simple, grey motif with a white shirt and red tie is classic, but yet again, simple … Good to see Mayor Larry O’Brien out at city hall joining the crowd, and big ups for taking a few minutes to meet the Prez and pose for a photo. It was one heck of a party he threw. Seemed he was quite easygoing too, as not 20 feet away, the ganja was being lit up. Might’ve been for the amusing Borat cutout, who took in the game in a Sens jersey …

… Sobering Stat of the Night: teams that win the first game of the final go on to hoist Stanley 78 per cent of the time … Playoff Beard of the Century: Scott Niedermayer … You have to wonder how many Canadians wanted to throttle the Ducks PA man for announcing that California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger “will present the prime minister (Harper) with an authentic Ducks jersey” on his upcoming trip to Canada … Last but not least: Ron MacLean was quite sharp on the opening spot, referring to Schwarzenegger and Don Cherry as “future president and prime minister” with both standing right there. Now there are two would-be leaders who could really shake up otherwise boring, token photo-ops. Here’s hoping that (a) the U.S. will allow non-native citizens to run for president, and (b), that Cherry can win over the non-hockey fans in Canada. Ok, so basically Grapes could get a majority.

Monday, May 21, 2007

Senators vs Sabres: Round 3, Game 5

Senators 3, Sabres 2 (OT)

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: Eastern Conference CHAMPIONS! In the aftermath of the euphoric series-clinching overtime win over the Sabres, it is the duty of any Ottawa scribe to remind the denizens of our fine city that, with one skilful swipe of Alfie’s sizzling stick, the Senators have just accomplished something their rivals in Toronto have been unable to do since 1967: make it to the Stanley Cup final. Replayed countless times amid the red fallout that ambushed Elgin Street afterwards, the goal itself, of course, comprises both sweet revenge and irony for the captain. Not only did he stick it back to the Sabres this year in overtime in Game 5 on the road—just like 2006, when Jason Pominville skated around Alfie and ended Ottawa’s season in Game 5 at the Bank—he did it with Pominville on the ice. After disposing of former playoff nemesis New Jersey in five following a penguin cull, the Sens get another proverbial postseason monkey off their back. And this time, the highest-scoring team in the league finished the series with two power-play goals against the mighty Ottawa PK. Three high-fives to take the entire East? Who woulda thought … On the subject, who woulda thought the Sens could steal this thing on the road after racking up all those third-period penalties, the PK track record notwithstanding? Notably, gotta love Tiny Mike Comrie’s slide into home plate, er, the net, knocking it loose to save what was for sure the go-ahead goal. Not only that, he did it in such a way that he let on as if the call was preposterous. And as pointed out in an Ottawa daily, if Tiny Mike had pulled that stunt in the last two minutes, a penalty shot would have been awarded. With a nod to Belly’s hot new track currently burning up Ottawa airwaves, the Sens are ballin’ like Comrie. Y’all better surrender calmly … Calm was the theme as the Sens attacked in OT, after facing adversity and Sabre momentum from the tying goal, courtesy of Maxim Afinogenov (in humble presidential opinion, the scariest Sabre on the ice). It was eerily similar to Game 2, when Daniel Briere tied the game from the same side of the net, only to have his team lose in extra time on Joe Corvo’s knuckleball. Notably calm going into OT was Ray Emery, stopping Drew Stafford on a wraparound attempt on the same side as his Game 2 overtime robbery of Thomas Vanek with an outstretched leg. This, of course, gave his Sens life and eventually allowed Alfie’s OT winner to happen. However, the save of the game came from Sabres star backstopper Ryan Miller in OT, as he robbed Jason Spezza of a sure goal in eerily similar fashion to Jose Theodore’s legendary stick save in Montreal’s 2002 series vs. Boston. With all these eerie similarities, Miller sure is hoping he doesn’t turn into another Jose Theodore. All bets are he won’t. Count on it …

… So the Cash Line bounces back after a shaky Game 4, in which the Sabres expectedly came to play with their season on a thin, sweepy line. The tic-tac-(terrific!)-toe goal didn’t exactly go according to Spezza Script, as in this case he was the recipient of a slick feed from Alfie, who benefited from fantastic, blue-collar backchecking work from Dany Heatley. Still, no one’s complaining … However, Spezza and Razor surely were the target of complaints from Bryan Murray after the first goal, where Razor was as sharp as a bald tire on his only giveaway of the game, which led to the Jochen Hecht goal. Spezza was right on the doorstep and could have tried harder to clear the biscuit. It was the result of excellent Buffalo pressure as they dominated the opening frame with fantastic energy and check-finishing. But as it was towards OT, the Sens calmly answered back, in this case with two straight goals, including the PP marker from Heatley to tie it … Speaking of that PP goal, Ottawa’s first, it wouldn’t have happened if Wade Redden didn’t patiently wait for the right shooting lane with time winding down on the power play. The shot got through and Spezza was able to convert a nice rebound into a Heatley one-timer. A plus-1, Wade led all Sens with 28:08 in playing time, corralled the puck nicely on what was a terribly bouncy surface (again), and overall made smart decisions. He notched Ottawa’s first shot on goal in the game with similar precision to the PP setup. In the third, he calmly took the puck away in front of Razor, and followed that up moments later with a solid but subtle check on big Sabres D-man Toni Lydman. Plays like these are what sometimes what Redden’s armchair critics don’t see or take into account when jumping on his hiccups. Unfortunately that’s what a $6 million price tag comes with …

… If anyone deserved to win this thing for Buffalo, it was co-captain Chris Drury (with 15 playoff OT game-winners to his credit), who came to play after a lacklustre first three games, blocking everything in sight with every part of his body, including his head. Speaking of which, it would be funny if he was related the guy in the third row who got quite the headache from the glass falling on him. Both had great playoff beards … Another big performer was Toni Lydman, who blocked five shots to help the Sabres out-block the Sens a whopping 21-7. The Sabres also won five per cent more faceoffs, had only two less missed shots, and spent nearly half the time in the sin bin as the Sens. However, the Sens led the OT shot count 6-2 and that was the difference … Bob Cole Line of the Night: “Somebody interfered with somebody,” he observed intently, after Neil would get sent off to the box … Harry Neale offered up this gem, referring to the late, great Sens assistant Roger Neilson: “He’s watching tonight in HD, ‘Heaven Direct.’” … After getting their ultra-convenient and preferred 2pm start time, NBC broke away from overtime to broadcast the Preakness. If afternoon games apparently grow the game in the U.S., fine, but don’t cut those viewers loose by scheduling two events close enough to overlap. Way to ruffle feathers, peacock network …

… Random Anthem Observations: Jason Spezza was mouthing along the words to “O Canada” while Russian teammate Anton Volchenkov, standing next to him, seemed to still not know the words. And is it just me, or does anyone else expect Buffalo anthem singer Doug Allen to say “Deal or no deal?” at some point? The Howie similarities are there. Maybe we can get the Scotiabank Place ice-clearing girls to carry the briefcases … Interesting Stat of the Night: Daniel Briere was the most penalized Sabre heading into Game 5. Normally you wouldn’t really think so, but that hit from behind on Kelly sort of re-affirmed it … Good Karma of the Night: Ray Emery shaved his head just in time for Game 5. Result? The W … Last but not least: only four more wins separate the Sens from Stanley. Whether it was the impromptu Parliament Hill post-game rally, the incessant Elgin Street motorists’ horn-honking from Alfie’s winner until well past 1 am, or the “Go Sens Go” cheers emanating out of the Elgin Street Diner (which has the best Philly cheesesteak poutine in town), or the Senssquatch’s patrols, or the flag-and-radio-equipped rickshaws, or Mayor Larry O’Brien sporting a Sens tattoo on his bald dome, or the van with a Daniel Briere roadkill effigy on the front, this city certainly is showing that it realizes how close this team is. The Sens Mile was the place to be on a picture-perfect Saturday afternoon and evening, and let’s hope the party continues.

Senators vs. Sabres: Round 3, Game 4

Sabres 3, Senators 2

The President was unable to pen his thoughts for this one...please proceed to Game 5!

Senators vs Sabres: Round 3, Game 3

Senators 1, Sabres 0

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: Tonight was not only a night when Canada’s Team pulled within one win of the Stanley Cup finals, but also one that saw Prime Minister Stephen Harper, a Toronto native and Maple Leafs fan, take in the game sporting a Sens jersey. It seems the Senators are changing hearts every day, starting at the top … Revenge is a dirty word, but the Sens are on the cusp of dusting off one of their most haunting playoff nemeses, one that has sent the Sens packing three separate times. And how about having the chance to see the Prince of Wales trophy presented on home ice again, except this time to the home team instead of 2003’s Game 7 heartbreak? Granted, the Capital wants a date with Stanley, but becoming the Eastern Conference champs would be no small potatoes … Speaking of small potatoes, the Sabres were only able to fire 15 rubber ones at Ray Emery tonight, who turned them all aside and didn’t have much work with the exception of the Afinogenov chance and in the final minute flurry. No doubt that having a goaltender interference call had something to do with it, as Brian Campbell did his best Colby Armstrong impression of the playoffs when he slid into Razor in the second period. It’s about time the zebras heeded Razor’s constant crease briefings on the subject and gave Ottawa a PP … On the subject, the extra man might be something the Sabres might not want to use anymore, as their man-(dis)advantage count is now 0-18 in the series. The Sens handed the Sabres multiple opportunities to strike back, but often it was the home team that provided the highlights. How about Dean McAmmond’s first-period PK rush towards the net one-on-one, as he gained the blueline then pulled some slick side skating moves, as if he was about to turn a triple-axel? Well, out of respect for the opponents who hail from a bovine-named city, maybe a triple sow-cow … Speaking of bovines, anytime Alfie wants a steak dinner in this town, you can bet he (or any Senator) won’t be footing the bill for quite some time … The bill is something the rest of the Sabres should pick up for Ryan Miller, who had his best game of the series despite the loss and one bad goal. Too many notables to list (well, maybe his save on Peter Schaefer if only to spotlight the snakebitten Sen), but this thing could have easily been 3-0 by the time the horn sounded. In a nutshell, the Sens simply skated circles around the Sabres and didn’t allow the visitors even half-circles …

… Unlike the opening minutes of Game 2, it was Ottawa that dictated the play as Game 3 unfolded. Anton Volchenkov and Mike Fisher especially held the Daniel Briere line in check quite well. A-Train’s blue line partner in crime all postseason, Chris Phillips, was no slouch himself as he was on the ice for the only goal of the game and followed that shift up with a huge block on Briere, which itself led to an Ottawa chance. Buffalo then followed that up with a potential 3-on-2, but Chris Drury went offside … Speaking of Drury, the Sabres’ co-captain is capable of better. Not to single him out, but someone has to step up and lift this team out of its black hole … Right after the aforementioned Campbell interference penalty, CBC cameras caught Sabres GM Darcy Regier scribbling something vigorously. Kinda curious as to what that might be. Tee times? Perhaps. A ‘calm-down’ letter to owner Tom Golisano? Might be a good idea. Doing the salary cap math for what it will take to squeeze in Briere for next season? Who knows. Filling out a rush-order for several shots of the stiffest stuff on hand? Yup, that’s gotta be it … On a related note, by the time Joe Corvo took that phantom tripping penalty in the second period, most Sens fans were deep into the adult beverages but even that couldn’t help absorb the string of penalties … It’s been beaten like a dead horse, but Jason Spezza does need to shoot more at times, none more obvious than that late first-period rush where Dany Heatley provided the perfect decoy, not the perfect pass recipient … Andre Meszaros had a couple of great chances tonight but couldn’t buy a break, in particular when he rung that 2-on-nothing PK chance off the iron … Speaking of Meszaros, his partner, Wade Redden, had an awesome night too …

… Mike Comrie’s neon yellow stick probably came in handy for him, as the bright lumber’s hue provided perfect contrast between itself and the dark puck, so he wouldn’t touch the biscuit while pressuring Dimitri Kalinin to get a delay-of-game penalty by tossing it over the glass … Looking for a spark, Lindy Ruff put Tim Connolly, Maxim Afinogenov, and Thomas Vanek together in the third. But Connolly in for Derek Roy? Don’t mess with quickness. It’s the only way around these Sens … Anyone else gulp when Alfie coughed up the puck in his own end to Jason Pominville? …

…Should the Sens and Ducks make the final, who is hip-hop king Snoop Dogg going to cheer for? During a second-round Ducks game, Snoop was interviewed on NBC’s telecast sporting a Ducks jersey and proclaiming his ducky support. However, when he performed in Ottawa in January, Mr. Gin-and-Juice himself was wearing Sens colours and even hung out backstage with Razor afterwards. Two things for sure—it’s gonna be off the hizzle, and maybe the first time the rap world has seen an East Coast-West Coast beef with only one participant, as Snoop figures who to go for in what might be a “high” scoring series … Don Cherry Suit Rating: 6.5 out of 10. The plaid theme was nice and colourful and had potential, but at the same time screamed 1950s Hudson’s Bay catalogue or 1970s tablecloth roadkill. Maybe it’s time for Razor to lend Grapes his sharp blue ensemble … No Bob(vious) Cole noteworthy gem tonight, but Harry Neale’s insistence that Alfie was trying to draw blood on that high-sticking penalty was amusing … Last but not least: our humble fan group’s Team Chemistry Coordinator is leaving for Africa for a backpacking adventure. We wish her well and hope that all our African friends appreciate the current eighth wonder of the world – that being our Ottawa Senators.

Senators vs Sabres: Round 3, Game 2

Senators 4, Sabres 3 (2 OT)

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: They say that complaints fall on deaf ears. Thank the hockey gods that Jason Spezza’s complaints about the bad ice at HSBC arena apparently were not acted upon, as it was none other than the Spezz Dispenser who dropped the candy in double OT to Joe Corvo with a perfect bounce. Joltin’ Joe then let rip a 40-foot knuckle-puck that bounced halfway off a perfect rut and over Ryan Miller’s right pad. However, don’t forget that Joe skilfully compensated for the bounce by tilting his lumber just-so. It certainly was a game of bounces up to that point, and the Sens certainly deserved one of their own after owning the Sabres for the first 19:54 of the third period, before Daniel Briere found a yawning cage off a bad rebound. All works out in the end, as the Sens deserved to win in regulation and did end up getting the W … Speaking of W’s, Buffalo was again denied one as the Sens unexpectedly stole both road games of the series. Still, the Queen City’s big guns came to play tonight, notably Briere, Jason Pominville, and Thomas Vanek, who had six, seven, and six shots respectively after a subpar effort in the opener. The Briere line wasted no time in the first frame getting the second goal of the period right after Thomas Vanek made up for his glove deflection. On the play, Teppo Numminen took a good shot, Jason Pominville went for the rebound, and Anton Volchenkov neutralized him. Unfortunately, the bounce went right to Jochen Hecht. It was the first period where the Sabres clearly showed what their consistent pressure can do to create deflections and bounces in their favour. Unfortunately for them, the Sens woke up in the middle frame and cut down on those chances. Proof? Zero shots on goal for the home side more than halfway through the second. Numbers don’t lie … While numbers are sometimes subjective in counting scoring chances, there’s no doubt that the Sens handed Buffalo quite a few good ones in the first after opening the game sloppily. Notably, Daniel Briere had all day to tee up a 10-foot wrister on one power play chance. On the other side of the coin, the Sens began weathering the storm in veteran fashion and patiently waited until late in the first for a scoring chance of their own, which came when the Cash Line, er, cashed in with the Alfie goal. That started the tide turning in the other direction and it would not turn back until five seconds left in regulation, of course …

… Speaking of numbers, the Game 2 Curse is officially over, and the Sens now have their first 2-0 series lead ever. It’s unchartered territory for Ottawa, of course, but just remember that the Sabres are 0-11 in series in which they have dropped the two games … On that number, it was the second game in a row that Mike Fisher quieted the raucous 18,690 fans inside the HSBC Arena. Slewfoot deflated the building by scoring less than five minutes into Game 1, and tonight when he tied the game early in the second … Official Presidential Opinion: the Alfie hit on Henrik Tallinder in OT was technically dirty, but not intentional. The captain was running on fumes all night and would not be denied the win, and in this case allowed adrenaline to get the better of him as he left his feet for what turned out to be a head-first check. Alfie was double-shifted on the play and kept going full-tilt, despite being dead tired. Full-tilt certainly described his effort on Redden’s go-ahead goal in the third, as he scurred around the offensive zone around two Sabres to help set up the marker. A similar play happened in the period when he held off three Sabres to the dismay of a subdued, frustrated HSBC crowd. So quiet, in fact, you could almost hear Leaf fans booing 90 miles away in Toronto. Speaking of which, it’s funny how the same Buffalo fans could go from booing their team late in the third, to cheering again when Briere bought them some life again …

… Ray Emery still allowed his fair share of bounces—especially in the first—but came through with his save of the playoffs on Thomas Vanek in the first OT where he stretched his right leg to the limit to deny the biscuit’s side-door entry. Folks, this is proof positive why goalies need to do the splits. Healthy groins are important for playoff runs, eh Dominik? … Random Anthem Thought: Buffalo and Ottawa are one of the few rinks that have organ accompaniment. Just makes the anthems sound better … Speaking of the anthems, Chris Neil was caught chattering to a teammate on the bench during the Star Spangled Banner. He’s also always in constant (and extremely vocal) communication with the officials and with his fellow Sens on the ice during games. He’s a witty and smart character too. Consider this a safe bet (and hope) that he’ll end up in PR or broadcasting when he’s done playing. Unfortunately, his PR skills couldn’t get him out of his holding penalty on Derek Roy when he was caught on top of the Sabres sniper. Still, why didn’t Roy get a red card, er, penalty for head-butting Neil after? … Loved the arena staff’s music choice at one point between whistles in OT: “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Chasing Stanley in OT in the third round? No kidding … In the latest instalment of How to Make an Entire City Soil Its Pants: a first-period Derek Roy post strike followed up by Roy’s shot through traffic, which Emery caught …

… Bob(vious) Cole Line of the Night: “They will look at it from all angles, then look at it again,” he analyzed during the video review of Thomas Vanek’s disallowed goal … It’s not the convention in 2 Cents, but had to single out Harry Neale for this gem in describing Alfie’s soft hands: “He could stickhandle through a rainstorm, and the puck wouldn’t get wet.” Love it! … Don Cherry Suit Rating: 7.5 out of 10. It takes a brave individual to pull off a light violet suit with a dark matching tie, but Grapes did ok … Being as this game was in a border town, maybe amazing saves should now be referred to “QEW robbery” instead of “highway robbery.” Just a suggestion … Stat Line of the Night: Anton Volchenkov. A minus-2, he made up for it with two hits and 11 (yes, 11) blocked shots. He’s now gotten in the way of a league-leading 53 pucks this postseason … On the subject, the much-maligned Wade Redden is now tied for second with a plus-9 rating the postseason … Last but not least: isn’t it ironic that the city that invented the world-famous, red-hot chicken wing now may be denied a chance to face the Red Wings in the finals? And how about further irony? If the series goes six games, the Queen City could be eliminated on Victoria Day in Ottawa.


Senators vs. Sabres: Round 3, Game 1

Senators 5, Sabres 2


PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: And the game-breaker for the curtain-raising of the super-hyped series between the NHL’s highest-scoring squads is—uh, nope, not Drury, not Heatley, nope not Briere—it’s freakin’ Saprykin! Oleg finally pops his first of the playoffs after stepping in admirably since Patrick Eaves went down during the opening round. A heck of a pass by Dean McAmmond found him open for a tip in front of Ryan Miller “Lite,” who didn’t have “Time” to see it (pardon these overused pun pokes at his name, but you know I had to do it just once). Like his efforts this whole postseason, he’s gotten an Oleg (ok one more pun) up on the competition tonight by simply working hard and making the most of his opportunities, including some time in the second spent playing with Heatley and Spezza. He had a slick feed to Heatley which almost resulted in a goal, then followed up the momentum by drawing a cross-check from Jochen Hecht. All in all, good to see Oleg rewarded … Speaking of rewards, up until his nifty goal in which he made three Sens look like pylons, Sabres shut-down D-man Toni Lydman had had a pretty good effort. He was blocking shots all night and making smart defensive plays, including one particular play where he blindly backhanded an attempted airborne pass, and another where he angled Alfie away from a slot pass. Unfortunately, however, he was a little lazy in his attempt to get back and stop Dean McAmmond from potting the empty-netter at the end …

… Another hard worker tonight was Mike Fisher, tonight’s Sens x-factor for the purposes of providing secondary scoring for the Cash Line-buoyed Sens of late. How about a short-hander 4:32 into the game to suck the life out of a rowdy HSBC Arena? Methinks that’ll certainly send a message. Nine faceoffs won, three hits, and two takeaways cemented another solid day at the office for Employee No. 12 … Speaking of the office, I wonder how many Buffalo office workers were among the 5,000-plus revellers outside the arena and will claim to their colleagues they got on TV? And that fog? Maybe caused by 5,000-plus pairs of lungs’ worth of hot air. Passionate hot air, mind you – Buffalo’s a great hockey town …

Tom Preissing had a good laugh as he took a seat in the box for a penalty that wasn’t really his (should’ve been Corvo’s), for a second-period hooking penalty that wasn’t really a penalty … Speaking of which, that Comrie cross-checking call in the first was more like a playoff double-love tap. C’mon zebras, call consistently … Sabres defenceman Paul Gaustad showed heart in coming back to the game after blocking a shot in the first, and still had more shots on goal than most of Buffalo’s big guns …

… Interesting how Bryan Murray had Spezza and Fisher, both centres, on the ice for an offensive-zone draw with 8.4 seconds left in the first. Answer came a moment later when Spezza was tossed from the circle and Fisher came in to take the draw. Just a little scenario where a good, veteran coach is always thinking strategy, and in this case, backup strategy … Two priceless expressions tonight: firstly, Ryan Miller throwing his arms in the air as if to say “what the hell” after the first Ottawa goal, and secondly, a CBC close-up of Alfie on the bench focussing hard, eyes wide open. Ladies and gentlemen, this is your captain speaking, all through his steely determination … Buffalo’s first goal was the combined result of finally getting a break after five or six close but unlucky bounces, as well as Ray Emery’s problem getting some rebounds under control. However, he showed tonight he can handle “traffic” in front, right Lindy? Careful about getting nudged on the roads, coach …

… Bob Cole Line of the Night: “That was a bang-bang play,” he said, referring to a few checks. Don’t know why, but it’s just funny coming from Mr. Cole … And of course, the Don Cherry Suit Rating: Seven out of 10. The black stripes-on-dark Grape purple actually looked half-decent, as did the light-purple tie. However Grapes, you gotta wear a different-coloured flower than white to start getting bonus marks … Thomas Vanek had a helper on the Afinogenov goal, but it seemed he didn’t get any more chances until his shot from the right wing in the third. A 42-goal scorer has gotta step it up, as do fellow stars Daniel Briere and Ales Kotalik, who were respectively a minus-2 and minus-3 … Chris Neil, Mike Fisher, and Anton Volchenkov were throwing checks all night, but it was Fisher’s inadvertent check on the A-Train that was among the biggest (and most amusing) … Tonight was the anniversary of Bobby Orr’s famous OT Cup winner in 1970. Thirty-seven years later, Bobby’s still a legend, and that hilarious new home renovation commercial has made him an unassuming comedic legend as well … Last but not least: loved U2’s “Elevation” as the choice for opening jingle accompanying the short display of Sens highlights to start the night off. Only seven wins to go until the Sens are high, higher than the sun …

Senators vs. Devils: Round 2, Game 5

Senators 3, Devils 2

PRESIDENT'S 2 CENTS: Halfway to Stanley! Nearly four years after the Jeff Friesen nightmare, the Sens have exorcised their internal demons and exacted some long-overdue revenge on the on-ice demons with a decisive 4-1 series romp. And for the second straight game they did it on the anniversary of a series closer, this one being the 2003 Eastern semi in which they embarrassed Philly 5-1 to take it in six. Not only that, this Cinco de Mayo affair will go down in history as the last hockey game (thankfully) ever to be played at the cavernous Continental Airlines Arena … Speaking of the old barn, the Sens surely owe the Toronto Raptors a couple of thanks for extending their NBA playoff series vs. the Nets to a sixth game, which took place the night before. Obviously, the bounces all went the Sens’ way tonight on the less-than-perfect surface, caused of course by the hardwood over top. Also makes you wonder how many of the large number of Sens fans in attendance were also Raptor fans. I’m guessing not many, but count yours truly as a fan of both … So as it turns out, Ray Emery had the last laugh after all, but not before dealing with the overblown media coverage of his traffic mishap on Friday, taking a later flight, then being locked out of the arena this afternoon after wanting to get in early. Not only that, but he gave up the first goal to the EGG line, which was cracking early on. However, the goal wasn’t because the Sens couldn’t get the line change they needed after icing the biscuit. Nope, thank CBC for changing over to the VERSUS audio feed because of truck problems. Of course, right after this “change,” Scott Gomez pounces on his own rebound. One-zip Devils. Moments later, literally as VERSUS colour man (and former goaltender) John Vanbiesbrouck says “Ottawa was not able to change,” the feed “changes” right back to Bob Cole and Greg Millen. This happened about four or five times, much to the delight of many Ottawa fans who aren’t huge fans of Cole …

… Martin Brodeur was much more solid tonight, with the possible exception of Tom Preissing’s goal. At least Mike “Slewfoot” Fisher had nothing to do with a Preissing goal this time. After two big saves on Mike tonight—including that slick pokecheck as Slewfoot moved in on a third-period PK chance—it was obvious Marty didn’t want to get beaten by him again. However, if he had to pick someone to beat him, Alfie and Spezza weren’t bad choices. Wow. Who other than the Spezz Dispenser can laser a perfect pass to an offside-cheating Alfie, who finishes threading the same needle through two (!) sets of legs? Spezza’s game-winner was amazing and had eyes too—but was almost expected, one could argue—after seeing the crazy curve he burned onto the end of his blade before the game. Too bad it didn’t work on his backhand chance on that late third-period PP. Oh and by the way, CBC’s audio came right back on before that goal. Reverse the curse …

… This game certainly wasn’t in the bag for Ottawa until the second period, as it looked like the Devils were on their way to stealing Game 5 by stealing a page out of Ottawa’s book­–namely by rolling four lines, getting sticks in front of passes, keeping shooters to the side, keeping up a ferocious forecheck and clearing away rebounds. Ottawa had three shots by the five-minute mark of the second … In fact, Patrik Elias had more shots at that point (five). However, Anton Volchenkov made it a priority to keep a close eye on the Devils’ captain, as A-Train blocked the fifth, and then angled a late-game slapper harmlessly into Razor …

On the subject, Oleg Saprykin is still giving it his best shot. One determined rush had him scoot through a boards-and-Paul Martin sandwich, followed up moments later by a neutral-zone takeaway and odd-man setup. Say what you want, but Oleg is giving a lot out there, and Gary Roberts is golfing … Golfing is also something Devils president/CEO/GM/coach/Be-All-End-All Lou Lamoriello will be doing, as he decides what coach to hire (and fire next April). Interestingly enough, he moved Erik Rasmussen to the top line and moved Sergei Brylin to the fourth. Didn’t work, but then again, if one of the NHL’s top checking lines can’t stop the Cash Line, then Rasmussen certainly won’t …

… How about Antoine Vermette’s deke work, which led to the Preissing goal? He tiptoed that line and pulled a nifty double-axel that could have got him into the Champions on Ice show that caused ice problems for Game 1…. If the Sens end up playing the Rangers, why not cross the Hudson and spend a week in NYC? Oh wait, could take at least a day to get out of the Meadowlands. Think traffic after Sens games is bad? … Don Cherry Suit Rating: six out of 10. Pinstripes: ok, but a little too thick, and they also clashed a bit on the shirt. Baby blue tie and hanky were ok, but negative points for the same corsage as last game, and also for the helmet gimmick … Elliotte Friedman actually asked some good questions today. Good work …

… Last but not least: may as well talk about the last two minutes. No one could have stopped the Gomez goal, as puck-sniffing sniper Zach Parise bowled over the A-Train, who prevented Razor from dealing with the shot properly. However, don’t forget about Razor stoning Patrik Elias with his trapper just before that. Also, don’t forget Alfie roaring back to rob Paul Martin of the puck after the Cash Line had a great chance. Another reason why that line is now the best two-way line in hockey. And want to know the real irony of the dying minutes of the Devils’ season? The Sens weren’t afraid to ice the puck, just as the Devils did countless times en route to holding one-goal leads. They won three Cups doing just that. Makes you wonder what can happen now for Canada’s team (nice ring to that, by the way) if that’s the case.



Senators vs. Devils: Round 2, Game 4

Senators 3, Devils 2

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: Nine years to the day after the eighth-seeded Senators knocked off the first-place Devils 3-1 at the (then) Corel Centre to eliminate them in a six-game shocker, the home team comes through again. Devils still around from that 1998 team: Martin Brodeur and Sergei Brylin. Both got points tonight in a losing cause. As for the Sens? Alfie, Wade Redden and Chris Phillips were all there too as wide-eyed youngsters. Alfie got a goal tonight and Wade added a helper. Big Rig Phillips was the only 1998er to not get a point tonight, but in that game he did make the pass over to Igor Kravchuk for the empty-netter to seal the deal. Many say the Bank has never been louder, but a franchise-record 20,248 did take this one in … So Marty Brodeur showed tonight he was human after all, letting in that no-angler from Dany Heatley and that dribbler from Mike “Slewfoot” Fisher. That’s two straight games Mike has now figured in on the winning goal, but this time he scored, of course. If that wasn’t insult enough after the Heatley marker, how about Ray Emery re-taking the goalie points lead right back with a helper on the Fish goal, right after Marty tied him with an assist on Brian Gionta’s? … Speaking of the Gionta goal, that was a generous bounce off the boards as the puck found its way back to Tiny Brian. Notably, during a third period clearing attempt by the Sens, the puck struck roughly the same spot and sailed quite high in the air, safely out of harm’s way. Talk about bank shots at the Bank … Razor had no chance on Jay Pandolfo’s perfectly placed tip on the Paul Martin point shot. A well-deserved goal for this year’s hard-working Selke winner. Congrats, Jay … Speaking of hard workers, Chris Neil was on fire in the third. That third-period hit on Colin White which drew a retaliation penalty was a huge energy boost and an example of his fine physical presence. And how about that waltz around Travis Greene and Brian Rafalski before going wide on the backhand? He’s done that before a few times and can certainly do it again. As for Rafalski, another subpar effort tonight, posting a minus–2 and three giveaways. He’s still capable of doing better … On the subject of stats, Anton Volchenkov and Devils D Richard Matvichuk checked in with five and six blocked shots respectively. However, none was bigger than A-Train’s block on Patrik Elias, stoning him with under a minute left as Scott Gomez invaded the crease. All in all, a fantastic last two minutes … Gotta love the Jubliee commercials, if only because they show Spezza’s embarrassment of Jose Theodore against the Habs. That goal, folks, never gets old. What IS getting old is Elliotte Friedman’s post-game questions. Add Alfie to the list of Sens (Redden and Fish) who want to belt him, this time for this gem of a question: “Did you guys make a pool as to when Jason Spezza would block shots in back-to-back games?” Let us know when you log heavy minutes on the Cash Line, Elliotte … It was the first time since 1993 (Patrick Roy and Glenn Healy) that two goalies got points in the same playoff game. In ’93, of course, Roy’s Habs went on to take the Cup. Could the same happen here? … The shot of Mike Comrie going for a stick change before the 5-on-3 PP was amusing, as he was choosing between two equally bright shades of neon yellow … Bob Cole Obvious Line of the Night: “It was a soft goal, I would think, on a difficult-angle shot by Heatley.” I would, uh, think the same … young Devils sniper Zach Parise struggled tonight, but fellow youngster Paul Martin was great on D. He read Spezza’s pass intentions perfectly on one three-on-one and checked the biscuit out of harm’s way … Poor Oleg Saprykin – took a hit to make a play in a great second-period shift, got dumped after keeping the play alive, then got called for that sly trip on Matvichuk. Can’t catch a break, as after his penalty he was right on the doorstep at the end of the period but ran out of time … Unfortunately the stereotypes ring true in Ottawa, as a crowd shot of some caviar-lovin’, fifty-something 100-level patrons politely waved pom-poms in subtle fashion, in contrast to some high-up, jet-ducking, passionate shirtless fans with “SENS” on their chests. Wake up, lower deck, you can do better … Don Cherry Suit Rating: a perfect 10 out of 10! A very sharp. velvet red jacket with a white tie (with a maple leaf on it), white shirt and a rose corsage to boot. Nifty … Good play by Christoph Schubert to deck Jamie Langenbrunner, who had a fantastic short-side chance on Emery. Jamie’s a marked man after that OT winner two games ago … Last but not least: as Greg Millen pointed out tonight, nice to see good sportsmanship by Marty Brodeur to simply give Alfie a love tap, and not a vicious calf hack, to keep him out of the crease. Are you listening, Eddie Belfour?

Senators vs. Devils: Round 2, Game 3

Senators 2, Devils 0

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: The second doughnut for Razor in this postseason couldn’t have come at a better time, as the Sens take the pivotal Game 3 win. Best part though? The post-game interview with Elliotte Friedman, who did his pushy detective work as to why Martin Brodeur wasn’t Razor’s idol growing up. “No, I gotta admit, sorry,” Ray said with a headshake and smile when Elliotte pushed the question. However, Ottawa fans might want to forget Razor’s next line, about why Brodeur wasn’t a fave: “Growing up, he always beat my Leafs.” Oops … Mike Fisher was Elliotte’s next victim, as CBC’s resident “CSI: New Jersey” investigator tried to conduct a post-mortem with Fish about his slewfoot on Marty, which led to Tom Preissing’s goal. After three questions why, Fish finally admitted to it, emotionless, after seeing a replay. “I guess I did hit him, ya.” Get over it Elliotte. Already Wade Redden wants to belt you for the choking-against-the-Leafs questions … Speaking of Fish, another heck of a game, and that’s one heck of a playoff beard too … On the subject, the Devils no longer enforce that clean-shaven rule. The top three beards thus far go to Brian Gionta, Colin White, and the soul-patch sportin’ Scott Gomez. Gomez’s linemate and dangerous sniper Zach Parise is definitely following the rule against his own wishes. The fuzz will come, youngster … Back to Razor: He had to be happy stopping that first glove-side shot, unlike the last game. Going back to the Gionta goal in Game 2 and counting tonight’s whitewash, he still hasn’t let another in from that side. However, none other than Gionta hit a post on that side with 20 ticks left. To top it off, if Razor had twisted his left arm the other way after Scott Gomez’s first-period shot wobbled out of his glove – whole new ballgame. Think too many Ottawans almost jinxed it by saying “shutout” before the final horn? … After tonight’s solid performance which included a blocked shot, two takeaways, 10 won draws and an empty-netter to boot, not to mention some incredible spinorama moves on a late third-period PP, I think all Sens fans can finally let the Spezz Dispenser make a few dipsy-doodle mistakes per night. Too much good comin out of him now … What else can you say about Marty Brodeur? Although Ottawa outplayed the Devils, he’s like Rasputin. Doesn’t give in despite repeated attacks. Too many solid stops to fit in this humble little column, but the Spezza to Heatley one-timer attempt immediately after the Preissing goal might have further rattled a goalie who was tripped up on a goal. Not Marty, who kept his composure. Give this man a red-carpet entrance to the Hall of Fame … Chris Neil, after one third-period hit on Gionta, immediately changed gears and led an odd-man rush into the zone. Over and over, he keeps showing us how he’s the perfect example of tough guy adapted to the ‘new’ NHL … Maybe it’s just me, but Brian Rafalski can play better. After that brutal giveaway to McAmmond in Game 1, he still seems a half-step behind or so at times. Look for him to step it up … Phillips and A-Train: three and eight blocked shots respectively, as well as four hits each. Welcome back, guys … Game 3 winners advance 69% of the time … Maybe Mike Comrie should get hurt more – after he went into the boards and left the game for awhile, the Sens turned up the tempo and nearly scored once or twice. However, he had a good shot from the left wing immediately after returning. He almost scored just before getting hurt, but Brodeur’s veteran savvy noticed a split-second beforehand that Mike wouldn’t corral the biscuit in time, and pokechecked him … John Muckler’s expression right after Heatley’s disallowed goal was priceless … TSN.ca Pun Headline of the Year: “The Preissing is Right.” Well you know, Tom could have a second career now that Bob Barker will only be handing out Plinko chips until June … Puck luck often doesn’t carry over to the next game, as Game 2 OT hero Jamie Langenbrunner found out on his first-period chance on an open cage when the puck hit the heel of his stick. He was stoned point-blank in the second too … Despite two good first period Sens shifts in a row, notably one by the Comrie-Schaefer-Fisher trio, the Devils still maintained enough resiliency to draw an Andrej Meszaros hook while he was backchecking. Just another example of why they’re so annoying to play against … Wade Redden led all Ottawa skaters in the first with 8:39 pretty solid minutes, and was the third-busiest Senator at 22:16. Speaking of time, the Devils’ lack of depth may just be a factor in future OT or close games, as the fourth line of Dowd-Rasmussen-Rupp averaged around three minutes and change tonight … C’mon Ottawa, 19,636 is good, but fill that standing room … One of these games, Oleg Saprykin is going to bury one. He’s made the most of limited ice time. Nice setup to Vermette in the third … The Don Cherry Suit Rating for Game 3 edges up to seven out of 10 for the catchy black and white plaid number … Last but not least: PM Stephen Harper, who is actually a Leafs fan, took in the game with son Ben and wore a red turtleneck to blend in. And just like 2006, Paul Martin was on the defensive, except this time as an actual defenceman.

Senators vs. Devils: Round 2, Game 2

Devils 3, Senators 2 (2 OT)

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: So the Sens’ go-up-two-zip jinx continues courtesy of Jamie Langenbrunner, who deserved that break after a fantastic game in which he caused havoc all night. To name a few, his two-way play was instrumental in creating an early 3-on-2 which led to Travis “Pat” Zajac’s chance, followed by a post. Plus he drew that four-minute minor from a Peter Schaefer high stick … As for the OT winner itself, it was just a lightning-quick fatal mistake, as Chris Neil put it towards the middle, and Joltin’ Joe couldn’t handle the dump-off in time. By the time Preissing came back, too late folks … Thanks to the timekeeping and two shaky goals on Razor, this game was really lost in the first period. However, do realize that the NHL shuffles around goal judges and timekeepers during the playoffs to take away the threat of ‘home cooking.’ Still, the clock started a split-second too late … As for the first goal on Razor, Alfie got caught, leaving Tiny Brian Gionta with a free wing to shoot from. However, no bones about it, it was a bad goal from a bad angle. Irony? Gionta shot towards the “Sharp” sign, but Sugar Ray certainly wasn’t on that goal. However, he made sure the rest of the shots all night from that wing didn’t have a chance … You’d think ‘former PM’ Paul Martin, of all Devils, would know everything about Ottawa or Senators, and should give Lou a good scouting report before games. As for John Madden? Well, I won’t add to the ribbing he’s probably taken for his name, though I will add that he probably takes tough-actin’ Tinactin, especially after being dumped into the Sens’ bench in the first … So the ice at the old barn did indeed cause problems all night, starting at six seconds in when Spezza missed a swipe at a puck, and all the way to OT, when the frozen softness thwarted Neil’s potential 3-on-2 setup. That and it caused havoc for pouncing on rebounds … No rebound was needed when Heater popped the tying in the dying ticks. How many times since 2005, in practice and in games, has the Spezz Dispenser hooked up with Heatley? Probably none more exciting and significant than this time, as that pass was simply laser-guided … Despite helping to cause the game-ending turnover, Joe Corvo again had a fantastic game, wheeling and dealing all night and nearly putting the game away himself on a third-period shot which Alfie couldn’t deflect in. Let’s just hope his confidence doesn’t sink to the depths of that Atlanta game. Wasn’t his fault this time, end of story … CBC Line of the Night: “New Jersey’s defence mechanism (tonight) is Martin Brodeur,” remarked Greg Millen in the third about Joisey not sticking to its usual team defence. Bang-on. Sens had their chances, but at the end of the night, what else can you say about the future hall-of-famer and one of the best backstoppers of all time? … Zach Parise had another fantastic game and had about five or six great chances all night. He also drew two penalties from a frustrated Mike Fisher early on … Raymond Foose, the Devils’ anthem singer for the evening, substituted “of” instead of “for all thy sons’ command” for those scoring at home, but nonetheless a good show, and an even greater red bowtie … the Comrie-Fisher-Schaefer line was one of few Sens highlights in the first … Devils’ shotblockers came to play tonight … Marty Brodeur’s spanking new trapper looked a little stiff on a late Alfie shot which he dropped, but you know he won’t take long to break it in … How to make an entire city’s worth of hearts skip a beat: make a huge save through traffic in OT where for a split-second no one knows where the biscuit is, one play after stoning Paul Martin. Razor’s got nerves of steel, unlike the rest of us … Don Cherry Suit Rating: six out of 10. Little heavy on the yellow tissue AND tie, and the pinstripes were a little far apart … Before the last-second Devils goal, let’s not forget Alfie leading a great PK charge in that 5-on-3, causing three successful clears. Emery was good as well, with two great screened saves … Here’s hoping the A-Train will be ok after favouring his wrist, which got slashed. He was OK after the Roberts smack though … Last but not least: finally a sellout of 19,040 takes in a Devils game. Sure, there’s traffic problems and all around the soon-to-be-abandoned Continental Arena, but you’d think at least SOME games up till now would have drawn a full barn? Guess not. After Friday’s Nets-Raptors game, you know Jay-Z isn’t waiting to see what a new barn in Newark could do for attendance. Only 17,147 bothered to show up for a Friday playoff game.

Senators vs. Devils: Round 2, Game 1

Senators 5, Devils 4

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: Huge W for the Sens, looking to get that Split in the Swamp after the Devils ‘coughed’ one up in honour of Patrik Elias … So far so good as it stands, to maybe escape with two wins even after nearly blowing that 4-0 lead when Scott Gomez’s tying goal went off the post. That entire sequence led to a Sens penalty as they desperately tried to clear the zone. Even Chris Neil seemed a little nervous, standing around wondering what to do … But in the first period it looked like the Devils who were the rusty ones with a week-long layoff, not the Sens. No one was shakier than Mr. Brodeur, who let in one over each shoulder … In the words of the wise new CBC commentator-for-a-day, Pat Quinn, the Devils “didn’t throw a bodycheck” all period. True, and they were uncharacteristically sloppy too, notably the defence, which seemed a step behind the opportunistic Sens. Also liked Pat’s take on riding one’s superstars into the dirt (see: Tampa). In short: the Sens have the depth. However, anyone thinking this is guaranteed to be a short series should realize this Devils team can still bite back and play suffocating D … Mike Fisher was everywhere on both ends all night tonight, as usual. Employee #12 had one great play where he zooms down the wing, gets a shot away, then hits Andy Greene for good measure. The two hits on Parise were key as well. And does anyone else think that if Fish were a step quicker down the wing, he could scoot around any defender any time he wants? No complaining at all though, just a thought … Speaking of scooting around defenders, how about that Allen Iverson-esque crossover Joe Corvo pulled before rifling his first of the postseason? Just another move in the Joltin’ Joe arsenal, which has thus far busted out some serious weaponry as Joe has officially come full circle … One player with quite the arsenal himself is Alfie, of course, who threw the body around nicely. At least 5-6 good hits throughout helped took away the effectiveness of the Madden line all night. How about that hit on Jay Pandolfo, who’s no pushover himself, that led to the Preissing shot which Spezza tipped in? Took the crowd out of it. Oh wait, New Jersey really has no crowd … On the subject, it seems the suburban and cavernous Continental Airlines Arena still employs the same tired noise-encouragement techniques as in past years. The same old ‘da-da da-da’ organ jingle followed by claps, as well as the droning goal horn come to mind. 15,512 (3,500 or so short of full barn) was the announced attendance, but about half that looked to be there during the anthems. No wonder the Nets are bound for Brooklyn, and that a new Devils arena is going up in Newark. Three Stanley Cups? Still might not put butts in seats … Travis “Pat” Zajak’s goal late in the first stopped the bleeding, followed by the second period Devils barrage which included another Zach Parise goal from the doorstep. This kid has a nose for the puck, a la Ryan Smyth or John LeClair. Watch out, he’s the real deal, yet another another Lou Lamoriello draft gem … Oleg Saprykin continues to show he belongs, as he had his third great chance of the playoffs on a point-blank chance, which Brodeur coughed up a bad rebound on … Wade Redden finally popped one tonight and has put in two great games in a row. It’s hard to tell sometimes with him, but in that post-game interview you could tell his confidence in his game was coming back. And you know Wade was ready roll his eyes when Elliotte Friedman brought up the Leaf demons of the past … Don Cherry certainly was flattering when alluding to demons that haunted Sens in the past with this gem on Coach’s Corner: “a couple of years ago they were a sucky team.” Ouch. And to think, I was all ready to compliment his brown suit-pink tie ensemble … Brian Rafalski’s lacksidasical clearing attempt late in the first, which led to Dean McAmmond picking him off and getting a beauty, spoke volumes of the Devils’ surprising lack of effort and detail defensively … Ray Emery now owes Anton Volchenkov a steak dinner for his efforts in helping rob Brian Gionta from a yawning cage … Last but not least, gotta love the shot of John Muckler cussing beside Ron Low as the Devils made it 5-4. Old school.

Senators vs. Penguins: Round 1, Game 5

Senators 3, Penguins 0

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: And so, the flightless birds are sent back off the ice rink to the ice flows in five games. Hats off to their fight in Game 4, but you have to wonder where it was tonight. All boils down to playoff inexperience and lack of depth, but confidence after firing blanks at the start was the difference, not effort, which was there … Speaking of inexperience, Evgeni Malkin’s really was quite obvious. At least he has a future in this league and his playoff mettle will come around, unlike another certain Russian who used to patrol the Ottawa ice … Speaking of Russians, where was Sergei Gonchar in this series? That Pens PP sure should have been better with him at the helm, or at least had more chances this series. He finished a -3 with four playoff points. Quiet ones, however, like Malkin's four … Dirty hit by Gary Roberts on A-Train Volchenkov spoke volumes of painfully obvious frustration. Being as he got away with that one and other ones, at the very least he would have gotten away with them for the Sens should Muckler have picked him up. On the flip side, there’s toughness spread all over this Senators team, so hindsight in this case is not 20-20. Consider the non-acquisition of Gary Roberts a success … Mike Fisher’s stat line: 0 G, 0 A, 0 PTS, 7 hits. One word: perfect. Another hard-fought game, Fish, including that two-hit sideshow on Jordan Staal and Michel Ouellet. Take a bow … Before the rambling goes too long, hats off to Razor. Kept this thing from falling off the wheels right after the curtain-draw, stopping seven Penguin shots on two five-on-threes. Sid the Kid had four of them en route to five in the frame. Could have been six had he not converted a sweet cross-ice feed, but he missed for the second game in a row … Speaking of the Kid, the only reason Spezza got a penalty for butt-ending him was so the zebras could finally nail him for dressing up a reaction. So much for the season finale of the Crosby Show, Canada … Looks like the Michel Therrien decided against using more toughness after all, as Georges Laraque played a team-low 3:02 ... Two happy-ending subplots to tonight: Heater finally potting one, and Redden with an improved effort. Speaking of Reds, that first penalty of the game had to be crushing for his confidence at the time, whether Ouellet dived or not (he did) … 11:27 left in the first: first booing of Colby Armstrong. 6:27 left: louder boo. Good job, Bank faithful (on the Roberts and Crosby booing too). However, PLEASE next time step it up. Huge save by Emery off a rebound? Mostly cheering while sitting. Big play by the Cash line with three or so glorious scoring chances? Ditto. Stand up, Ottawa! Even Lyndon Slewidge had to encourage the patrons to take over O Canada. Still a ways to go to outdo the Oiler fans … Ryan Whitney showed up strong in the third for the Pens tonight after taking that hard shot off the back of his leg. Malkin, are you taking notes? … Anyone else praying when the A-Train stopped at the station (dressing room) after the Roberts hit? … Most reassuring Dean Brown line when I was driving: “Phillips takes Crosby, Volchenkov takes the puck.” Another great call, Deaner … On the subject of commentators, here’s the Bob Cole Line of the Night: “It’s been a great series, even though it’s 3-1.” Huh? Sounds like someone wanting to see more Pittsburgh in this series … not only did Antoine Vermette score a pretty one, but he did his usual fantastic two-way sideshow tonight, including one fantastic play during the opening few penalty kills where he took a hit, bounced the puck off the boards to himself, and killed a few more seconds. Could have simply cleared it, but those plays show your comrades you’re ready to battle … Couldn’t have had one last Pens game without CBC catching a Michel Therrien f-bomb … Jordan Staal is a horse and will only get better. Watch out, NHL … after Mike Comrie rang that bullet off the crossbar and 20,000+ goal judges (including the real one) signaled a tally, you know Bryan Murray had that St. Louis game in mind when he quickly motioned for the refs to go upstairs … Last but not least, what 70s-era drapes or tablecloth died to make Don Cherry’s suit tonight? Call it Drapes on Grapes. That’s one scenario where you look away from HD.

Sunday, May 13, 2007

Senators vs. Penguins: Round 1, Game 4

Ottawa 2, Pittsburgh 1

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: Despite a shaky second period and being outshot throughout, the Senators passed their latest and biggest test with flying colours. Best part? Colby “the witch” Armstrong, who in the pregame interview showed signs of playoff peach fuzz, was a complete non-factor and couldn’t cook up a spell … Pens overall played solid, but simply couldn’t cook up enough chances against Ottawa’s solid stickwork and rebound control (see below) … Gotta be impressed with Dany Heatley. Better overall effort tonight, with two good scoring chances and some big hits. He’ll light the lamp soon enough … Speaking of impressive, how about that Spezza-Heatley-Saprkyin (yes, Saprykin) tic-tac-toe in the third? Oleg, albeit temporarily, made Muckler look like a genius by finishing solidly after a shaky start. Notably, he played well with McAmmond and Schubert … on the flip side, $6 million rearguard Wade Redden had another lacklustre night with a handful of bad giveaways, including the one to Gary Roberts which led to Staal’s goal. Another play featured a Wade-open giveaway to Ronald Petrovicky, who found Jarko Ruuto open. He’s bounced back before – in fact, the Sens are a losing team without him in the lineup – let’s hope it happens real soon … especially in this low-scoring affair, Rayzor really owes Peter Schaefer a steak dinner for his sweeping deflection to keep the game tied in the second. Schaefer and Comrie also traded nifty through-the-legs boardwork which led to Volchenkov’s goal. Pistol Pete’s underrated stickhandling flew under the Pens’ radar, and it’s flown under many all year … hate to make the comparison, but this year’s Sens bear a striking resemblance to the 2004 Leafs in the playoffs for their blue-collar ability to clear away rebounds and second chances. Notably, Mike Fisher, A-Train, Chris Kelly and Antoine Vermette turned in solid defensive efforts … is it just me or are Chris Phillips and the A-Train being “rewarded” by the refs for their solid play all series by being scrutinized and called for a few questionable penalties, one in particular from the centre-ice ref? … Another solid effort by the captain in all aspects, including one late-game rush where he hustled to retrieve a Pens’ dumpout, only to force the nugget back in and create a quick scoring chance. It’s hustle plays like this that win series … Anyone else miss Greg Millen on Sens regional broadcasts? … On the subject, here’s the Bob Cole line of the night, two short minutes after Marc-AndrĂ© Fleury let in that Spezza pop-fly: “Fleury is showing signs of being sharp again this evening.” Funny timing, but o well, he turned out to be right … Leave it to a front-row Penguins fan to disrespectfully flash a “Cryin Bryan” sign during the Canadian anthem … Last but not least, on that late-game Schaefer-Comrie-Fisher jam in front of the net, I bet Dean Brown had his biggest “SCRAMBLE” in recent months.

Senators vs. Penguins: Round 1, Game 3

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: Another strong game from the captain, as Alfie popped two sweet goals as well as popping both Gary Roberts and cheap-shot artist Colby Armstrong on their backs. Armstrong, of course, took out Patty Eaves with a questionable hit, and it was good to see Chris Neil and Alfie not let him forget it. Speaking of Armstrong, he bears a striking resemblance to Leafs pest Darcy Tucker in playing style and looks, albeit with an uglier nose and an inability to grow peach fuzz, let alone hair … other physical Sens included Mike Comrie and Jason Spezza, the latter with his little melee near the Pens bench in which he handled both Roberts and Ouellette at once … good CBC camera work all night, catching Michel Therrien and Crosby dropping f-bombs, as well as a flattering shot of Gary Roberts spitting in slow, oozing motion … good to see Dean McAmmond get one in the first period, as he was one of the hardest-working Senators up till that point and throughout … speaking of hard work, Schaefer’s nifty dekes, followed up by Mike Fisher’s screen, led directly to the Comrie goal … Pens PA announcer John Barbaro, perhaps despite his best efforts, still sounds too cheerful when announcing a Sens goal or a Pens penalty … Evgeni Malkin showed signs of teenage inexperience, with an undisciplined open-ice hook and that ambush of Phillips in the last minute, both of which led to penalties … fellow youngster Crosby showed incredible, veteran poise as he perfectly stepped into open ice to convert the give-and-go on the Penguins’ second goal … it was the Penguins’ first home playoff game since 2001. Even the crowd was obviously short on playoff experience, with some booing O Canada and then getting overly excited by throwing objects onto the ice after the Pens struck first … toss-up as to what was uglier: the guy in the front row with the long, bleach blonde mullet, or Mario Lemieux sporting a tieless blue shirt and the beginnings of a playoff beard … Dany Heatley either missed most of his shots or had most of them blocked. That certainly can’t continue … Overall the Sens played an excellent road game, checking hard, playing good defence and keeping the Mellon Arena crowd out of it until the late Crosby goal ... last but not least, can’t help but compare the Pens’ decision to sell tickets only to fans living in Pennsylvania to what the Sens did a few playoffs ago when they didn’t sell any to fans in the 416.