World Cup SF: Sep 11 GDT - Czech Republic vs. Canada

Matchup: Czech Republic vs. Canada
Venue, City: Air Canada Centre
Time: 6:30 PM EDT

Rosters: Czech Republic (http://wch2004.com/rosters/index.html#czechrepublic) | Canada (http://wch2004.com/rosters/index.html#canada)

Prediction: 4-3 Czechs :eek:

6-5 for Canada in overtime :amazed:

No Brodeur = Czech advance.

3-1 Canada, Sakic scores a goal, Brodeur player of the game.

No Brodeur = Czech advance.

Brodeur isn't playing? :eek:

Brodeur isn't playing? :eek:

Looks that way.

http://tsn.ca/world_cup_hockey/news_story.asp?id=98201

3-1 Canada, Sakic scores a goal, Brodeur player of the game.

Broduer is not playing

I'll say 5-4 Czechs in OT ... of course I predicted Germany upsetting Finland and Slovakia beating Canada also but who knows

Looks that way.

http://tsn.ca/world_cup_hockey/news_story.asp?id=98201

OMG! But im still sure that canada will win, both Luongo and Theo are capable of taking the charge.

Canada over Finland 4-1 in the Final, as I predicted before the tourney.

And I wasn't relying on Brodeur to steal any games.

Luongo will do fine enough. Canada has the blueliners and defensive forwards to contain the top threats to a goal or two, especially with home ice advantage ont he shift changes.

I am on record as having predicted before the Sweden game a 6-1 final (close to the 6-2 actual score)!

This game: 4-2 Canada over the Czechs.

I have yet to be wrong in this tourney. I shoulda gone to a Vegas bookie.

Broduer is not playing

I'll say 5-4 Czechs in OT ... of course I predicted Germany upsetting Finland and Slovakia beating Canada also but who knows

Dont go to Vegas buddy :lol .

Canada over Finland 4-1 in the Final, as I predicted before the tourney.

And I wasn't relying on Brodeur to steal any games.

Luongo will do fine enough. Canada has the blueliners and defensive forwards to contain the top threats to a goal or two, especially with home ice advantage ont he shift changes.

I am on record as having predicted before the Sweden game a 6-1 final (close to the 6-2 actual score)!

This game: 4-2 Canada over the Czechs.

I have yet to be wrong in this tourney. I shoulda gone to a Vegas bookie.

Thats a good prediction but something tells me that it will be a lower scoring game like 3-1 or something.

Canada has made at least four goals in most of the games so it gonna be 5-1 for Canada.

Thats a good prediction but something tells me that it will be a lower scoring game like 3-1 or something.

I forgot that Brodeur isnt playing :shakehead I think Canada is in a little bit of trouble.

Czechs win, 5-0.

Czechs win, 5-0.

Your kidding right? :lol

Your kidding right? :lol

Well, they won 7-2, then 6-1, so....

I have a bad feeling about this game, I also had a bad feeling about the last game and Canada pounded the Slovaks 5-0 :lol

Really, I'm kinda scared this time around without Brodeur in net but I think we have some solid goaltending so who knows. It's gonna be 3-2 Canada.

No Brodeur? :( :help:

Ah well, no shutout for Canada then. :)

Well, they won 7-2, then 6-1, so....

Yeah well those 7-2 and 6-1 wins weren't against Canada now were they?

Brodeur, Luongo, whoever, Canada will win 5-3.

What worries me is that not having Brodeur in nets could ruin team Canada's confidence a tad.

3 or 4.. hmm, toss a coin..

Czechs score a couple, say 2.. Canada scores 3 or 4.

If history means anything, this should be a very close game.

In 2002, these teams met and it was a 3-3 draw.

In 1998, 1-1 draw after regulation and 1 period of overtime, and Czechs won in a shootout.

It may come down to who's luckier tonight...

Funny how all the Devil fans see Brodeur is out and predict doom and gloom for Canada. We aren't putting Chris Terrerri out there.

And this won't be a 6-5 or a 5-4 game. Those predictions are way off. Canada is going to be even more solid defensively being aware that Brodeur is out, they'll be stronger on the puck in their own zone and play more man to man, which will limit their transition but also snuff out the Czech chances.

I say 3-1 Canada.

[QUOTE=I say 3-1 Canada.[/QUOTE]

Thats exactly what I said.

I predict a Czech win.

Luongo isn't ready to face Jagr, Hejduk, Elias, etc.

BUT I wouldn't be surprised to see Canada win, because obviously, they are the better team.

I say 4-3 Czech Republic.

Funny how all the Devil fans see Brodeur is out and predict doom and gloom for Canada. We aren't putting Chris Terrerri out there.



We aren't the only ones...

would it be great that there could be the europeans in the final...??... :amazed:

In all fairness it should be Canada, because they havent lost a game.

Czech would probably be better for Finland as we beat them once allready, but I think Canada should win 5-0. :yo:

It was worth staying up last night, cant wait to see Tuomo Ruutu maul Lemieux behind the canadian net!!! :yo:

way to go Finland!!!! :banana: :D

I say 3-2 Canada, in 2OT!

I hope at least one game in this tournament goes to overtime, and tonight would be prime. Hopefully Canada can eek through

I hope at least one game in this tournament goes to overtime
You obviously missed the great Finn-Swede game. It was nearly unforgettable.

5-2 Canada. Luongo isn't much worse than Brodeur. He's the second best goaltender in this tournament...so I don't see the need for panic. You would have to be mentally ill to think that Canada is going to lose this one. Not a freakin chance :)

Canada has made at least four goals in most of the games so it gonna be 5-1 for Canada.


but they also haven't had to play a team with a goalie as good as vokoun, or with the firepower of the czechs(elias, hejduk, jagr, havlat,vyborny, zidlicky, just to name a few)

I saw the Czech\Sweden game, and I've seen every canadian game...and if the Czechs play the sort of game they played against Sweden...they're going to win this whole thing.

Look, up till now, Canada could had Salo in nets and still won all their games. This is not taking anything away from Brodeur, he's a world class goalie but please don't tell me he's had to really work any magic in this series, so far. He really hasn't stolen any games for Canada. This tells me Canada has an excellent group of d-men and a great defensive plan. The d-men are still there and I assume the defensive plan will be there too.

True, the Czech team is coming around and they have an explosive offense. But Canada has an explosive offense also and a slightly better defense. The Czech goalie is good but not better than Luongo or Jose. In a one game winner-takes-all anything can happen even if Brodeur is in nets.

We've been boasting that we can put two or three Canadian teams into this tournament. Maybe the fates are putting our boast to the test. To be honest with you although I'm a Habs fan, I prefer Luongo to Theodore. When Theodore is on his game, there is no goalie in the world that can match him - not Brodeur, Roy or Tretiak. The problem is, Theodore is not always on his game. I think Luongo is a little more consistent.

but they also haven't had to play a team with a goalie as good as vokoun, or with the firepower of the czechs(elias, hejduk, jagr, havlat,vyborny, zidlicky, just to name a few)

I saw the Czech\Sweden game, and I've seen every canadian game...and if the Czechs play the sort of game they played against Sweden...they're going to win this whole thing.

I'd say Esche is as good as Vokoun and Russia had as much firepower as the Czechs. Canada just hasn't faced a team with both. On the same note, the Czechs haven't played anybody as good as Canada.

but they also haven't had to play a team with a goalie as good as vokoun, or with the firepower of the czechs(elias, hejduk, jagr, havlat,vyborny, zidlicky, just to name a few)


The American team is better than the Czech and Esche is a better goalie than Vokoun. You saw what Canada did to the Americans.

Though I definitly root for the Canadians, I think there will be a little upset and the Czechs will win it. 2-1.

The American team is better than the Czech and Esche is a better goalie than Vokoun. You saw what Canada did to the Americans.


the american team isn't close to as good as the czechs and i'm an american...and nor do I think Esche is as good as Vokoun. Esche was incredible with the defense he had in front of him..but the Czechs defense is better. And yes, I saw what Canada did to the Americans...they won by one goal. I just hope you're not looking past this game, because I think that if Canada wins this..it will be by squeaking by.

but they also haven't had to play a team with a goalie as good as vokoun, or with the firepower of the czechs(elias, hejduk, jagr, havlat,vyborny, zidlicky, just to name a few)

I saw the Czech\Sweden game, and I've seen every canadian game...and if the Czechs play the sort of game they played against Sweden...they're going to win this whole thing.

The Czechs just flew over an ocean to come into the Air Canada Centre and face the best team in the tournament. It's not an easy task. And the Czechs haven't played a team with the firepower Canada has and haven't played against a goalie as good as Luongo, and I'm not forgetting about Kipper.

If Canada plays the way they have played the first four games of this tournament they will win the whole thing. Canada's offensive players will be challenged a lot more by the Finns than the Czechs.

The American team is better than the Czech and Esche is a better goalie than Vokoun. You saw what Canada did to the Americans.

No way are the americans better than the Czechs, they have no where near the same fire power up front.

Oh no Brodeur is being replaced by Luongo, darn whatever shall we do. There is very little difference between the two other than Brodeurs experience.

I say 4-2 Canucks in a barn burner.

Havlat and Elias are looking incredible so far that is the line Canada will have to look out for.

I agree. This will be Canada toughest test so far, and I would prefer to have our number 1 guy in net.
I did say before the tourney that I felt Luongo is a better tender than Brodeur.
Let's hope he doesn't make me look foolish tonight.
I predict a squeeker, let's say 2-1 Canada.

the american team isn't close to as good as the czechs and i'm an american...and nor do I think Esche is as good as Vokoun. Esche was incredible with the defense he had in front of him..but the Czechs defense is better. And yes, I saw what Canada did to the Americans...they won by one goal. I just hope you're not looking past this game, because I think that if Canada wins this..it will be by squeaking by.

This is game 7 hockey, something similar to the fin-usa game is very likely. :jump:

the american team isn't close to as good as the czechs and i'm an american...and nor do I think Esche is as good as Vokoun. Esche was incredible with the defense he had in front of him..but the Czechs defense is better. And yes, I saw what Canada did to the Americans...they won by one goal. I just hope you're not looking past this game, because I think that if Canada wins this..it will be by squeaking by.

While not looking past this game, I do think you are giving the Czechs far too much credit. I watched the Sweden game, heck I've seen every minute of every game except the first US-Russia game. You are ignoring Canada's team defence and focusing solely on the Czechs. Canada has given up 3 goals in four games and with any other goalie in the NHL outside of Brodeur (aside from Trevor Kidd) it would be 3-5 goals allowed.

While Canada plays a more open style, they certainly dominate puck control. They have done it against every team. You don't see any of Canada's defensmen stand around and admire opposing forwards a la Brian Leetch/Saku Koivu. Whil I don't expect the Canadians to score more than 3 or 4 goals tonight it's the Czechs who will be hard pressed to generate goals.

the american team isn't close to as good as the czechs and i'm an american...and nor do I think Esche is as good as Vokoun. Esche was incredible with the defense he had in front of him..but the Czechs defense is better. And yes, I saw what Canada did to the Americans...they won by one goal. I just hope you're not looking past this game, because I think that if Canada wins this..it will be by squeaking by.


You, like me before the series, are underestimating this American team. I'd say they're the third in this tournament. Behind Canada and Finland. And Esche was the only reason the American team stayed in that Canada-USA match-up. I'm not looking past this game (and even if I was it wouldn't affect the results - I'm not playing). I'm telling you the Czechs are not as good as the American team overall.

You obviously missed the great Finn-Swede game. It was nearly unforgettable.

Sorry, my bad. I meant 5 on 5 overtime.

I'm afraid with Blake, Pronger and Brodeur out. Especially considering the Czech revival ever since the last period of the 4-3 loss agains the swedes. Yes I'm worried.

I'm hoping Canada wins, but I think all of us Canadians are fogetting one thing...Tomas Vokoun. He is better then Bryzagalov, Lasak and Esche. Vokoun will be the difference maker in this game. If he is on I won't be surprised if the Czech's win 2-1 or 3-1.

Either way this game will be a doozy!

Unbiased Canadian

I'm afraid the Czechs will win the game 6-2. :dunno:

Everyone who is worried Canada will lose, and predicting Czech win, i hope you come back and apologize for being so crazy when Canada kicks the Czech's *****!

The American team is better than the Czech and Esche is a better goalie than Vokoun. You saw what Canada did to the Americans.

The Americans also played reckless pond hockey in the first three games until implementing a structured defensive system in the elimination games. Wilson talked about this last week.

This game is all about mental preparation - if Canada has even the smallest attitude problem, they could be in trouble. If they don't underestimate the czechs they will most likely win the game relatively easily because they simply have much better team in all areas.

Luongo's confidence is also one thing - if Czechs manage to score a quick goal, it could shatter Canada's gameplan. Emphasis on word 'could'...

so are we going to play this game WITHOUT Brodeur? :shakehead
how's his sore wrist?

If Canada can play the Czech defense very physical, they'll be in good shape. None of the Czech defenseman really play a dominant physical game, and guys like Ryan Smyth, Joe Thornton, and Vincent Lecavalier, that have played a bit more physical lately for Canada can take advantage of that.

Canada is going to have to play very well positionally, and the defenseman cannot get caught on the rush and give up odd man rushes against the Czech team.

I dreamt last night that the Czechs won 4-1 (empty netter at the end), so I'll use reverse psychology and say Canada wins 4-1. I woke up very grumpy this morning after Canada "lost".

I dreamt last night that the Czechs won 4-1 (empty netter at the end), so I'll use reverse psychology and say Canada wins 4-1. I woke up very grumpy this morning after Canada "lost".
Haha. I'm very scared for tonight. I didn't really dream but if I had, Canada would humiliate the Czechs who I can't stand. Anyone but the Czechs. That being said, I believe in Canada's chance but gosh are the Czechs look dangerous. I'm afraid the Czechs will win and we'll never hear the end of it. I have no clue who will win and I can't pick. It's pretty 50/50.

Do you guys think that maybe, just maybe, the Canadians are just trying to get into the heads of the Czech team? Is Brodeur really hurt or are they just playing this up so the Czechs think they will walk all over Canada? I'm thinking maybe Brodeur isn't actually hurt at all. Just a thought. :dunno:

But I guess we'll find out in 2 hours.

Do you guys think that maybe, just maybe, the Canadians are just trying to get into the heads of the Czech team? Is Brodeur really hurt or are they just playing this up so the Czechs think they will walk all over Canada? I'm thinking maybe Brodeur isn't actually hurt at all. Just a thought. :dunno:

But I guess we'll find out in 2 hours.

The thought did cross my mind. Saying that it's a "game-time decision" leaves a lot of room for him to play.

Even if he isn't, Czechs still don't know who they're up against until they skate out.

I'm guessing then all those people that said that in another thread that Brodeur wasn't the MVP of this team because he hasn't had to steal any games have had a change of heart.


Do you guys think that maybe, just maybe, the Canadians are just trying to get into the heads of the Czech team? Is Brodeur really hurt or are they just playing this up so the Czechs think they will walk all over Canada? I'm thinking maybe Brodeur isn't actually hurt at all. Just a thought.

Personally, I don't think the Czech team is thinking they are going to walk over Luongo. He's still a better goalie then Vokoun.

IMO the team that comes out this battle victorious, will win the Cup!

Amen. 100%

Look, up till now, Canada could had Salo in nets and still won all their games. This is not taking anything away from Brodeur, he's a world class goalie but please don't tell me he's had to really work any magic in this series, so far. He really hasn't stolen any games for Canada. This tells me Canada has an excellent group of d-men and a great defensive plan. The d-men are still there and I assume the defensive plan will be there too.

True, the Czech team is coming around and they have an explosive offense. But Canada has an explosive offense also and a slightly better defense. The Czech goalie is good but not better than Luongo or Jose. In a one game winner-takes-all anything can happen even if Brodeur is in nets.

We've been boasting that we can put two or three Canadian teams into this tournament. Maybe the fates are putting our boast to the test. To be honest with you although I'm a Habs fan, I prefer Luongo to Theodore. When Theodore is on his game, there is no goalie in the world that can match him - not Brodeur, Roy or Tretiak. The problem is, Theodore is not always on his game. I think Luongo is a little more consistent.

but they also haven't had to play a team with a goalie as good as vokoun, or with the firepower of the czechs(elias, hejduk, jagr, havlat,vyborny, zidlicky, just to name a few)

I saw the Czech\Sweden game, and I've seen every canadian game...and if the Czechs play the sort of game they played against Sweden...they're going to win this whole thing.
Thats true but the Czech D hasn't been forechecked like the way Canada can. 5-2 Canada

hey, how about the Finns ? :)

I think they are a feisty bunch, and earned their shot at the Cup.

IMO the team that comes out this battle victorious, will win the Cup!

I think if Canada can play extremely physical without compromising discipline they should be able to slow down the czechs and throw them off their game a bit.
Hopefully we dont overreact to losing Brodeur and change our game.We have the talent to get the job done,then again so do they.Should be a great game.

Damn Gretzky's daughter looks hot... :amazed: Or am I too old to say that? :blush:

Wow, Melrose just pretty much just called the Czechs 'w'ussies, said if you pound them enough they will give up because they don't want it as bad as the Canadians, because they hate physical play. Anybody else hear that? What a dick.

I think we'll win, but it'll be much closer than all the pre-game overconfidence implies. I'll say 2-1 Canada.

Only two things I noticed so far is that Dvoraks line was out against Smyths and I think Paulina Gretzky was lipsynching...she was "semi" lip synching at the Heritage Classic also (sang over a recording of herself)

I wonder if the czechs will pull off the upset or if this will be like the other game where it was fairly even and then Canada just kicked the slovaks around the ice

The Cze's are looking to be Canada's equal.... Hannan looks weak

selfish play by Iggy.

It's going to be a tough game for both teams. Could go either way.

Damn Gretzky's daughter looks hot... :amazed: Or am I too old to say that? :blush:

Hot ? She looks like a b!tch. 5 pounds of makeup doesn't make a girl beautiful.

wow
this games looks impressive
canucks giving up puck too much
strong pressure by the czechs
canada all over the place and look in disarray.
nice play by Iginla, too bad he didn't pass the puck

I like how Doan finishes every bodychecks

Wow, Melrose just pretty much just called the Czechs 'w'ussies, said if you pound them enough they will give up because they don't want it as bad as the Canadians, because they hate physical play. Anybody else hear that? What a dick.

I am so sick of Melrose's pro-Canadian gibberish. He's entitled to his oppinion but give it a rest Barry. :help:

radiolink for a poor german please :cry:

That tim bits hockey ad is so cuuuuuuuuuuuuute

radiolink for a poor german please :cry:

Yeah please! :)

Go Czechs!

I thought I would never hear Jiri Dopita's name ever again. The Czech team couldn't find anyone better?

Nice to see the Canadians acknowledge 9/11. :handclap:

I thought I would never hear Jiri Dopita's name ever again. The Czech team couldn't find anyone better?
he sucked in the nhl, but he is a great player, make no mistake about it.

What a battle along the boards :joker:

he sucked in the nhl, but he is a great player, make no mistake about it.

Great players don't suck at the highest level, they excel at it, it is what makes them great. Dopita sucked, don't call him a great player, or even a good one. He had little heart and whatever talent he does have--and I'm sure he is quite talented, a lot of teams have had his rights, and he's been a big time player in Europe--he showed only sparingly.

wow
what a game
very very entertaining
czechs overall look more organized
great pressure, canadians can't organize themselves
richards, st.louis line is completely shutdown
heatly's line quite feisty
gotta love lemieux line, but the czech dee is doing their job

and what's up with the no call on that cross-check ?

I've never seen Lemieux be so physical. He's throwing his body around.

EDIT : since the beginning of this tournament

Great players don't suck at the highest level, they excel at it, it is what makes them great. Dopita sucked, don't call him a great player, or even a good one. He had little heart and whatever talent he does have--and I'm sure he is quite talented, a lot of teams have had his rights, and he's been a big time player in Europe--he showed only sparingly.
he came into the nhl when he was old and never was used properly to adjust. Your an ignorant fool if you think he sucks.

That rucinsky deflection scared me

Jagr makes Draper look like a pylon, then shoots it into Luongo's chest...

edit- Great, great save by Vokoun :handclap:

Czechs are an outstanding skating team.

Jagr makes Draper look like a pylon, then shoots it into Luongo's chest...

edit- Great, great save by Vokoun :handclap:
Jagr does that to a lot of people.

I have to say that so far this has been a much more entertaining hockey game than yesterday's game.

This is an awesome game. Two fast-skating, attacking teams and superb goaltending on both sides.

Czechs seems to be skating around the Canadian team. Never thought I would see that.

I dunno if it's the ice or what, but if Canada keeps giving the puck away like they did in the first, this game won't be scoreless for long.

it's getting scary....the Czechs are playing well and they look very focused. Hopefully Canada can pull through here and get the win for Marty.
Who will be the hero for the Canadians tonight? And it would be rude of me to not to include Paulina Gretzky in this post, looks like she is ripening very nicely.

Very entertaining period. The Czechs game plan is working perfectly so far them.
Couple of nice saves by both Vokoun och Luongo.
Looking forward to the 2nd period.

agree, awesome game
however, czechs are quite scary, they control puck much like russians, and you could see their superiority in that department. passing is much better as well
and they are getting quite physical when it's necessary

gotta say, czechs impressed me a lot.

The Czechs are playing extremely smart. Canada is making some of the same mistakes that Sweden made, even though they're not playing as abysmal. But the Czechs exploit it immediately and if Canada doesn't smarten up the Czechs will own this one.

Man Jagr is on fire !

Scott Hannan was terrible in the first period, he was good for two bad plays per shift. I haven't seen a performance that bad since Hatcher in last years playoffs.

Luongo has looked good, although Brodeur's puck handleing abilities are definitely missed. The Czech's forecheck is very effective and Brodeur would have been a deterent against that kind of pressure.

Melrose seems pretty reserved at the moment.....he looks a little worried. :joker:

he came into the nhl when he was old and never was used properly to adjust. Your an ignorant fool if you think he sucks.

:shakehead Thanks for your wisdom. The guy has 33 career points. 33. Is that the mark of a great player? And don't give me "he wasn't used properly," when he was with the Flyers he was given plenty of opportunity. He was used on the PP, the Flyers had injuries on the wing and at center all year long and he couldn't capitalize on his chances, save for a game against Atlanta where he scored 4 of his 11 goals that season. He had his chance, and he failed. He was moved to Edmonton, where he had his chance as the second line center, mustered 6 points in 21 games, and IIRC then asked for a release because his heart wasn't in it (or if I do not recall correctly, was simply outright released). And if he is a 'great player' as you so claim, he would not have struggled with the change over from Europe to NA, because that's another mark of greatness. So please, don't call him great, because he has shown nothing to indicate that he is a great player.

Czechs seems to be skating around the Canadian team. Never thought I would see that.

Do you mean I might have memorized the Canadian national anthem (http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=102822) for nothing?

Great players don't suck at the highest level, they excel at it, it is what makes them great. Dopita sucked, don't call him a great player, or even a good one. He had little heart and whatever talent he does have--and I'm sure he is quite talented, a lot of teams have had his rights, and he's been a big time player in Europe--he showed only sparingly.

There is a saying, "Don´t try to teach a old dog to sit...".

Dopita was what 32(?) when he played his first game in the NHL, a game completly diffrent game from what he had played for two decades...

"Don´t try to teach a old dog to sit..."


:dunno:

There is a saying, "Don´t try to teach a old dog to sit...".

Dopita was what 32(?) when he played his first game in the NHL, a game completly diffrent game from what he had played for two decades...
dont try and teach an old dog new tricks is what you mean lol ;)

:shakehead Thanks for your wisdom. The guy has 33 career points. 33. Is that the mark of a great player? And don't give me "he wasn't used properly," when he was with the Flyers he was given plenty of opportunity. He was used on the PP, the Flyers had injuries on the wing and at center all year long and he couldn't capitalize on his chances, save for a game against Atlanta where he scored 4 of his 11 goals that season. He had his chance, and he failed. He was moved to Edmonton, where he had his chance as the second line center, mustered 6 points in 21 games, and IIRC then asked for a release because his heart wasn't in it (or if I do not recall correctly, was simply outright released). And if he is a 'great player' as you so claim, he would not have struggled with the change over from Europe to NA, because that's another mark of greatness. So please, don't call him great, because he has shown nothing to indicate that he is a great player.
----------------------

So by your logic, Vladimir Krutov wasn't a great player because he didn't produce when he played for Vancouver at the end of his career?

Badman

Great players don't suck at the highest level, they excel at it, it is what makes them great.

Give credit where credit is due, Dopita is a really good player.
He, in fact, has excelled at the highest level (Nagano, Salt Lake, this tourney), a level much higher than the NHL.

The NHL isn't for everybody, as some player's skills just don't translate well to the NHL style game.

There is a saying, "Don´t try to teach a old dog to sit...".

Dopita was what 32(?) when he played his first game in the NHL, a game completly diffrent game from what he had played for two decades...

He was 33. Completely different? Not at all. It's certainly different, but too say it's completely different is almost as bad as saying... that he's a great player. Yes, had he come to the NHL 5, 6, 7 years earlier he probably would have faired better. But he isn't a great player today, as FOTS claims.

I can't believe you guys are arguing about Dopita when there's so many other things to talk about :joker:

Like how well Bouwmeester is doing

What a chance by Dopita :eek:

Give credit where credit is due, Dopita is a really good player.
He, in fact, has excelled at the highest level (Nagano, Salt Lake, this tourney), a level much higher than the NHL.

The NHL isn't for everybody, as some player's skills just don't translate well to the NHL style game.

No, he was a really good player. Hell, I'll concede that he is a pretty good player today. But that's not my point. My point is that he isn't a great player.

I'm just tired of hearing "great" player thrown around so much. Fans do it, but the athletes are the worst. A journeyman middle reliever/3rd line winger/fresh warm NBA body is added to a team, and "he's a great player and he'll really help us out a lot." It's a pet peeve I have, I know it's probably a petty one, but it's one of those little things that annoys me in the sports world.

Good lord.. are the Czechs on a PP or something? Canada is skating around like they are chickens with their heads cut off..

I just started watching. Seems like Canada is getting out played.

So now Vokoun is making saves at both end of the ice... :rolleyes:

EDIT (for those watching CBC)

No, he was a really good player. Hell, I'll concede that he is a pretty good player today. But that's not my point. My point is that he isn't a great player.


Great players don't suck at the highest level, they excel at it, it is what makes them great. Dopita sucked, don't call him a great player, or even a good one. He had little heart and whatever talent he does have--and I'm sure he is quite talented, a lot of teams have had his rights, and he's been a big time player in Europe--he showed only sparingly.

:dunno: :shakehead

Why is Pat Quinn not playing Lecavalier and St-Louis..

Wow

Luongo is playing great. Canada is back on its heels.

Yes Brewer!!!!! :banana: :banana:

Brewer scores

GOALLLLLLLLLLL!!

Canada :handclap: Awesome job Thornton on that shift. Goal by Brewer

I still can't understand why Brewer is on the team... :joker:

1-0 !!!

:dunno: :shakehead

I said I'd concede that he was a pretty good player. That implies that I am chaning my statement.

Is this really worth bickering about? I don't think so.

What a chance by Vyborny...oh my......

Wow...Vyborny blows a great opportunity to tie it right back up...shoots it into Luongo again...

Why is Pat Quinn not playing Lecavalier and St-Louis..
Maybe because, compared to the Czechs tonight, Lecavalier lacks defense and St. Louis lacks size.

MARIOOOOOOOOOO :bow:

Vokoun had no clue where the puck was...

Mariooo!!! 2-0

LeCavalier did a good job of selling that trip, he and Mike Ribiero should do ice dancing together.

Sure enough canada scores.

SCORES!!!! :banana:

Hamrlik 2-1

Cajanek scores...looked like it went off a skate

Cejanek cuts the lead in half.

:banghead: :banghead:

fluke ***** goal...........

Weak goal.

Weak goal.

It went off Foote's skate about 10 feet in front of Luongo...no chance for him to do anything.

Oh Marty, where for art thou!

It went off Foote's skate about 10 feet in front of Luongo...no chance for him to do anything.
Ok. Fair enough..didnt see that at first.

First no goals for 30 mins, now 3 goals in some 4 mins. :eek:

Maybe because, compared to the Czechs tonight, Lecavalier lacks defense and St. Louis lacks size.

Every reasons are good I suppose...

It went off Foote's skate about 10 feet in front of Luongo...no chance for him to do anything.


No it didnt watch it again

Ok. Fair enough..didnt see that at first.

Neither did I..only when the ESPN people(whoever it is tonight) mentioned it and I saw the replay.

Maybe because, compared to the Czechs tonight, Lecavalier lacks defense and St. Louis lacks size.

:shakehead Vinny is better in his own end than most people give him credit for. And I suppose the size issue hurt St. Louis in winning the hart and being the 2nd in playoff scoring on his way to a cup.....

Nice hook on Havlat there by Brewer

:shakehead Vinny is better in his own end than most people give him credit for. And I suppose the size issue hurt St. Louis in winning the hart and being the 2nd in playoff scoring on his way to a cup.....

Actually, I think it was the exact opposite there IMO.

Actually, I think it was the exact opposite there IMO.

I hope you are not suggesting they gave it to him out of pity, or cause he was such a good story...

I hope you are not suggesting they gave it to him out of pity, or cause he was such a good story...

Im saying it helped him. Obviously, his great season points-wise was the main factor, but I think he got a little help because he was a "feel good story". But enough of that...doesnt really pertain to the game tonight.

nice hit by Doan on Zidlicky

is it just me, or is the Gagne-St Louis-Richards line invisible? their size renders them somewhat ineffective in this tournament

Im saying it helped him. Obviously, his great season points-wise was the main factor, but I think he got a little help because he was a "feel good story". But enough of that...doesnt really pertain to the game tonight.

Altough I totaly disagree with your opinion about St-Louis I agree that thread is not about that so case closed.

nice hit by Doan on Zidlicky

is it just me, or is the Gagne-St Louis-Richards line invisible? their size renders them somewhat ineffective in this tournament

They're not playing. It's hard to be effective from the bench.

I can't believe you guys are arguing about Dopita when there's so many other things to talk about :joker:

Like how well Bouwmeester is doing

Indeed, J-Bo is amazing, I would like to see him and Havlat battle each other... with speed :)

Indeed, J-Bo is amazing, I would like to see him and Havlat battle each other... with speed :)

A fight would be nice too ;)

Nice game so far, Could go on for a long time. Vokoun looks a bit shaky.

Too bad the refs missed Thorntons offside on the first goal...I would rather see a 1-1 game at the moment.

Too bad the refs missed Thorntons offside on the first goal...I would rather see a 1-1 game at the moment.

That was an earlier situation (if you're referring to the replay by Nelonen). There wasn't an off side in the first goal.

That was an earlier situation (if you're referring to the replay by Nelonen). There wasn't an off side in the first goal.

No, Nelonen and you obviously missed Thorntons clear offside. I know what Nelonen replayed about a previous situation and you could not even see where the puck was in that. That was not a clear case, but the one with Thornton was. He made the offsides himself by keeping the puck in the neutral zone and crossing over the line and then taking the puck over the line. I think the linemates went offside as well when thorntons legs were on the area and puck still in neutral zone.

Man I hope Scott Hannan just proved to every person who was crying for Macabe that he belongs.

Jagr would have deked Macabe all the way back to 1957

Havlat ties it

Havlat :handclap:

Nice PP work from the Czechs and Havlat makes it 2-2!

Goal!!!!!!

Havlat 2-2!

:shakehead

****.

No, Nelonen and you obviously missed Thorntons clear offside. I know what Nelonen replayed about a previous situation and you could not even see where the puck was in that. That was not a clear case, but the one with Thornton was. He made the offsides himself by keeping the puck in the neutral zone and crossing over the line and then taking the puck over the line. I think the linemates went offside as well when thorntons legs were on the area and puck still in neutral zone.

I thought they came out of the zone before he went back in.

Phantom call on Vinny Lac.

Luongo has zero rebound control

Czechs are going to win. Unless :lol Luonga :lol has anything to say about it. God I love Bob Cole.

Nice fat juicy rebound... Hey on another note, is there a goalie in the czech net? Haven't seen too much of him this period.

Luongo has zero rebound control

Quick, put in Theodore!!!

Vokoun :bow: ...and apparently the canadians think they are playing NFL football now..their tackling the Czechs left and right.

Quick, put in Theodore!!!

I know you're joking. But Theodore would have been a better choice, it's too late now.

The Czechs' cycling has been phenomenal thus far.

Phantom call on Vinny Lac.

I dont mean to start anything, but it was just as questionable as when Lecavalier was 'tripped' to set up Canada's 2nd goal. Anyways, I hope this game goes multiple OT....been a fantastic game both ways so far.

I thought they came out of the zone before he went back in.

When he went back in, puck was still in neutral zone....Thornton himself (at least) was offside...he was inside the zone and pulled the puck from neutral zone. Thats offside.

No penalty call on Heatley :banghead:

holy ****

Luongo standing on his head :bow:

What the hell was that :eek: ..My heart just stopped

When he went back in, puck was still in neutral zone....Thornton himself (at least) was offside...he was inside the zone and pulled the puck from neutral zone. Thats offside.

No it isn't if there wasn't anyone else there.

This don't look good. Czechs are a lot better team then I thought they were...

It's going to be quite the finish... :eek:

Who had any doubts in Luongo??

He's playing incredible

This don't look good. Czechs are a lot better team then I thought they were...

It's going to be quite the finish... :eek:

I'm nervous

Who had any doubts in Luongo??

He's playing incredible

I had and I disagree

The Czech Republic is DOMINATING this game. Quinn needs to use his timeout or something b/c this isn't looking good.

DRAPER SCORES!

[QUOTE]This don't look good. Czechs are a lot better team then I thought they were...
[QUOTE]

It's not your fault. You Canadians get fed this "we are totally dominant in hockey and can NEVER lose" every single day, especially on these boards...

Draper!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Draper with a rocket!!!!!

3-2!!!

Vokoun is a sieve

Drappppppppppppppppppppppppppppppperrrrrrrrrr

Draper 3-2

Holy Shhhhhheeeeiiiiit~!!!!!!! Draper!!!

Vokoun's gotta stop that one

Big time player, Draper !

Elias :handclap:

Oh... My... God. What a game.

Who had any doubts in Luongo??

He's playing incredible

And Luongo blows the lead again :lol:

aHAhhdhsahfdsa

Elias!!!!! 3-3!!!

Elias ties it!

Haha omg...

Luongo sucks. That was weak.

Oh dear lord.

That was fast comeback! 3-3!

Damnit, Luongo should have had that one. :banghead:

Elias 3-3

Elias 3-3

There should have been a penalty call before Drapers goal :shakehead

jesus christ what was that.....

amazing game though

If someone had to score, I'm glad it was Elias.

holy **** more NHL games need to be like this :handclap:

I think I have to turn the tv off for now. This is too much.

Elias!!! :banana:

Luongo sucks. That was weak.

Sucks my ass, this game would be over already without him. Canada is playing like ****, does that mean they suck? No!

There should have been a penalty call before Drapers goal :shakehead


There was.

The refereeing is absolutely disgraceful... The canadian defensemen are holding, clutching and grabbing and breaking every rule in the book... And the canadian referees are just standing there... It's a joke...

Hey.. who did that goal go off of.. :dunno:

Elias 3-3

Stop copying my stuff man.. :)

The refereeing is absolutely disgraceful... The canadian defensemen are holding, clutching and grabbing and breaking every rule in the book... And the canadian referees are just standing there... It's a joke...

Agree completely

I hate it when the (Canadian) refs swallow their whistles. There are holding calls on Canadian D-men in every shift but the refs do nothing. Do your job refs :mad: :)

The refereeing is absolutely disgraceful... The canadian defensemen are holding, clutching and grabbing and breaking every rule in the book... And the canadian referees are just standing there... It's a joke...

Give me a break.. The Czechs are setting so many 'picks' you would think this is a basketball game.

Canada needs to slow it down, I don't think they want to play this type of game with the Czechs.

Canada needs to slow it down, I don't think they want to play this type of game with the Czechs.


Exactly what I thought. This is NOT the kind of game you want to play against the mullets!

Sucks my ass, this game would be over already without him. Canada is playing like ****, does that mean they suck? No!

It just proves what we all knew already.... he's no Brodeur.

I hate it when the (Canadian) refs swallow their whistles.
There's a long tradition of doing so as the playoffs go on in the NHL. Refs only call the most flagrant infractions then. If you've seen some playoff series between the Avs and Red Wings you'd know what I mean.

I hate it when the (Canadian) refs swallow their whistles. There is holding calls on Canadian D-men in every shift but the refs do nothing. Do your job refs :mad: :)

Would you expect anythings less? It's not like they don't have a history of stuff like this. :mad:

I hate it when the (Canadian) refs swallow their whistles. There is holding calls on Canadian D-men in every shift but the refs do nothing. Do your job refs :mad: :)

Man do people hate us so much that their visions are THIS clouded? Man somebody already mentioned it but have you noticed the ILLEGAL picks the czecks are putting on Canadian Defenseman? No, I guess not. You have nothing to complain about.


GO CANADA! :banana:

Who had any doubts in Luongo??

He's playing incredible
i spoke too soon

Another NFL-worthy tackle by the Canadan defense. OT coming :handclap:

Hockey is a funny game, suddenly in the end they change the rules :shakehead

It just proves what we all knew already.... he's no Brodeur.

Indeed

When he went back in, puck was still in neutral zone....Thornton himself (at least) was offside...he was inside the zone and pulled the puck from neutral zone. Thats offside.

Puck carrier can precede the puck into the zone, if he has control. One of those rules few hockey fans know.

Who were the two Canadian defencemen on the 3-3 goal?

Was Elias' goal really only 6 seconds after Drapers? Holy hell thats quick.

Heh, I guess nobody is doubting what nationality the refs are. ;)

overtime. Last time I saw Luongo in ot Dykhuis scored on a wristshot from outside the blueline.

incredible game

Wow, what a game. :handclap: :handclap:

Man do people hate us so much that their visions are THIS clouded? Man somebody already mentioned it but have you noticed the ILLEGAL picks the czecks are putting on Canadian Defenseman? No, I guess not. You have nothing to complain about.


GO CANADA! :banana:


I think the CANADIAN referees have clouded visons, and perhaps some fans also :dunno:

What a game!!! So this is what hockey is like: haven't seen a game with this much intensity in a long time...

I can't take this, i'm about to have a heart attack.
I must have smoked a whole cigarette factory tonight.
Luongo is making key saves, but also allowing some crap passed him.
That Elias goal should have never went in.
C'mon Canada, i can't take another '98.
Time for Mr. Clutch Joe Sakic to come in for us in OT.

How can anyone prefer baseball to this?

Man do people hate us so much that their visions are THIS clouded? Man somebody already mentioned it but have you noticed the ILLEGAL picks the czecks are putting on Canadian Defenseman? No, I guess not. You have nothing to complain about.


GO CANADA! :banana:
they actually aren't illegal. Have you not noticed Burke keep pointing that out.

I want a shoot-out.

Wow. This is great hockey! :jump:

I was rooting for the Canadians when the game started but now, Holy super-biased home-ice refs, Batman! The Canadians get away with murder EVERY shift. The Czechs should have had multiple powerplays just before the Draper goal. Booo!

Puck carrier can precede the puck into the zone, if he has control. One of those rules few hockey fans know.

Who were the two Canadian defencemen on the 3-3 goal?


Yeah I have seen these situations often and I really dont know how the refs draw the line about being in control. I've seen similar situations called offside often, but of course I have seen it go this way too. Not a biggie really, just an observation.

Czechs have been the better team.

This game has "classic" written all over it. :handclap:

This is the ultimate "public relations" for NHL players to win fans over to their side in the ongoing CBA fight - their ability to put on the best sports entertainment in the world. ;)

***

Sorry, but anyone who would dwell on the officiating :cry: in a game as great as this ought to get a clue!!!! Just my opinion.

I think the CANADIAN referees have clouded visons, and perhaps some fans also :dunno:

Now now, lets not turn this into a flame war.....

How can anyone prefer baseball to this?
you could watch game 7 of the 01 world series and say the same thing about hockey my friend.

Man do people hate us so much that their visions are THIS clouded? Man somebody already mentioned it but have you noticed the ILLEGAL picks the czecks are putting on Canadian Defenseman? No, I guess not. You have nothing to complain about.


GO CANADA! :banana:



What are you talking about? No one hates you, you're Canada! :joker:

Hockey is a funny game, suddenly in the end they change the rules :shakehead

It's a socialistic game. One guy gets a PP, you gotta even it up. It is Canadian, after all. ;)