2007 Preseason, Game 5: 9-25-2007

Senators 4, Flyers 2

PRESIDENT’S 2 CENTS: Nothing wrong with physical play, as the soon-to-be record-setting number of fights in league preseason play edged up significantly in tonight’s Flyers-Sens tilt. Unfortunately, that number was given a shot in the arm due to that flying shot out of nowhere to Dean McAmmond, courtesy of hothead Flyers prospect Air Steve Downie. McAmmond had his melon down on the play, but that probably mattered little as Air Steve was in full, but uncontrolled takeoff mode. Thought to be somewhat reformed and level-headed following his world junior performance which somewhat erased the memory of his dustup with an Oshawa Generals teammate in an OHL practice––an incident which forced a trade to Windsor––Downie has just killed his chance at making the Flyers this season, not only by the despicable act itself, but by the fact that he will docked 25 games minimum based on recent precedents (see: Chris Simon, Todd Bertuzzi). Downie brings the physical edge and was trying to make an impression on the Philly coaching staff in time for last camp cuts. He did what any physical young kid is going to do, and that is take a run at an established NHLer. Worst part? He’s labelled once again as a dirty player, one that the Flyers will be forced to cut since he won’t be playing over a quarter of the campaign anyway. This suspension could even scratch him from the lineup card into next season. All for one mindless play, which could also cost McAmmond a good chunk of the season. All Sens fans know Dean’s value to the team as its fastest skater, one of the best penalty-killers, and sadly, now one of the most targeted (are you listening, Chris Pronger?). With two concussions happening within just over three months of each other, Dean’s long-term health is now an issue … Only positive from this sad situation is that it could give a bubble player like Nick Foligno a further chance to make the team out of camp, at the very least until Dean recovers. He was solid again tonight; smart and strong are plays that come to mind, especially during the second period where he drew a hook on Denis Gauthier …

… The game itself was actually quite boring until the wild second period which included the infamous hit and the ensuing melee, featuring very little except for the Meszaros hit and two bad Flyer goals. Ray Emery, making his first start since Game 5 of the final back on June 6, struggled mightily on the few times he was actually challenged. Both goals came on the (healed and rusty) glove hand side, and both times Anton Volchenkov came over to help Razor out. Hopefully it’s sooner rather than later that Razor finds his groove again, and A-Train can get his masterful shot-blocking defence back into form. They need each other … Speaking of those needing each other, the water cooler and bar talk all over town (up until the McAmmond hit) was about Dany Heatley’s possible new contract extension being in the works. However, since Kevin Lowe is GM in this league (Google “Thomas Vanek” and “Kevin Lowe” together), and Jason Spezza will be a restricted freebie in July, it’d be wise to get both locked up now since the Sens can’t compete with ridiculous offer sheets. Not only that, but these guys are dynamite together and it’d be symbolic to have a side-by-side press conference announcing that both are back in the fold for next year. With Wade Redden’s expected departure along with his $6.5 million off the books, it makes room for Spezza but could force a cap squeeze-out of Antoine Vermette or Chris Kelly, but better to lock up the Spezz Dispenser …

… Back to the game: it was painfully obvious that the Flyers, who were playing the second of three straight games, were resting most of their stars as opposed to the Sens, who iced mostly regulars. The Flyers were a step behind and taking dumb penalties––10 to be exact, including six in a row––which cost them any chance of holding that 2-1 early lead. Never, ever give the Sens any sort of extra-man life, as the Leafs found out in OT the previous night. In fact, Spezza tried the same circling-of-prey move in the first period. Didn’t work out, but maybe it set the tone, as well as the floodgate release switch for the second … Scottie Upshall had a decent game, save for the cough-up to Alfie for the Sens’ first goal. Alfie continues a fantastic preseason with another two points on the night … The night belonged to Patrick Eaves, however, with two goals and two helpers. Seemed the only thing he couldn’t do was heave his darn lumber over the glass for a souvenir on the first try. Sure, he doesn’t get much practice since he hasn’t been named a star all that often but c’mon Patty, these light composite sticks pretty much weigh the same as Calista Flockhart … Speaking of famous people, Joe Corvo has undoubtedly seen many from his days living as a King in Los Angeles, but the smiley (Game 2 OT winner vs. Buffalo) yet intense and dramatic (down on himself after the New Year’s OT giveaway) defenceman should definitely star in the next hockey movie, say Slap Shot, if there is one. After tonight’s PP cannon, it’s only further proof that his slap shot is also star quality …

… Again, with Rogers TV capably at the helm tonight, here’s the Line of the Night: “There’s padding there,” remarked Team 1200 personality-turned-colour man Lee Versage on the referee taking a puck in the midsection. “Better to have it there, than off a bone, or something else,” he added cheekily, as play-by-play partner Ed Hand agreed awkwardly … Excellent camera work too, catching the Ben (over) Eager retaliation slash on Razor, but more importantly, the subtle jab that stirred up revenge in the youngster … Official Presidential Opinion: There are some that say it was a mistake for the Flyers to sign hulking (and slowing down) d-man Derian Hatcher a year ago, but there’s still a role for him in this new NHL. Two goals tonight as well as six apiece in the hits and blocks categories? Speed helps, but size is good too … Last but not least: it’s an honour for the President to now be joining up with the largest Sens group on Facebook. And here’s the best part: supporting your Sens is an actual GOOD reason to be on the darned, addictive, time-wasting website.