3/25/06 Ducks at Coyotes

TONIGHT

at Phoenix, 6 PST, FSNW2

Site — Glendale Arena.

Radio — 1090.

Records — Ducks 36-21-12; Coyotes 32-33-4.

Record vs. Coyotes — 6-0-1.

Update — A big part of the Ducks' standing in the Western Conference has been their domination of the Coyotes this season. In seven games against Phoenix, the Ducks have outscored them, 27-14, with Selanne getting five goals and Rob Niedermayer three. Ladislav Nagy continues to lead the Coyotes in scoring with 56 points even though he is out for the season with torn cartilage in his right knee.

LA Times (http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-ducks25mar25,1,4340270.story?coll=la-headlines-sports)

I have a bad feeling about this game.

Selanne hat trick tonight :bow:

Me too.

Then again, I had a bad feeling before games against Stars, Avs and Preds as well. Go figure.

Come on...we are on a roll. Sure we shall not get too excited, but the team plays really good at the moment, I'm not feared at all :)

CONFIDENCE

Me too.

Then again, I had a bad feeling before games against Stars, Avs and Preds as well. Go figure.
Yeah, hope they don't underestimate the Yotes since they've been beating some of the better teams.

This does seem like a classic let-down type game, doesn't it? Coming off two good home performances, now going on the road for a 2nd of back to backs, against a team that's out of the running, and it's been a while since they really tanked a game. If they're going to turn in a stinker, it'll probably be this one.

I dont think so. Carslyle isnt stupid and he'll make sure that the Ducks dont underestimate this team. I think we dominate and come out with a 3 goal win.

any idea who's starting tonight?

I would say Bryzgolov becuase he has 3 wins against Phoenix this year, and it is a good time to rest Giguere for another tough week ahead.

This will be a tough one. Hopefully they come out flying off of last nights win. Also, it would be nice if Bryz didn't let in his usual softie this game.

I'm all for positive thinking! The Ducks can win this one! I BELIEVE in them! They just need to continue playing strong, play hard for 60 minutes and never underestimate their opponent. Hope to see win #6 in a row.

LET'S GO DUCKS!!!

I doubt we are "safe" enough to start taking nights off. The Ducks know the race is too close to become complacent. The boys are going to work hard all the way to the playoffs.

We can safely predict the Ducks will lose a game sometime, possibly even tonight. But if skill, form, attitude, and hustle mean anything, it's less likely tonight than it was for each of the last three games. And while the loss thru "overconfidence" or "easing-up" stories are popular sportswriter spin, it usually doesn't work out that way.

Ideally, it would be better for the team to lose to a team below them like the Coyotes or above them like Dallas. With games coming up against the Avs, Kings and Canucks, those should really be considered the must win ones.

These guys just need to have a mind set that a win could put them up 8 on SJ and 7 on LA and give themselves some breathing room for the harder games coming up.

I predict Getzlaf will have another huge night, 1 goal and 1 assist and Lupul will have his 25th goal of the season.

I don't think the guys will lose this game, they are on fire :yo:

Well here's prediction try #2 (my COL one of 4-1 Ducks was WAY off lol)

5-2 Ducks tonight.

Ideally, it would be better for the team to lose to a team below them like the Coyotes or above them like Dallas. With games coming up against the Avs, Kings and Canucks, those should really be considered the must win ones.
That's not a good way of thinking! To win all games would be an Ideal ;)

If we need to take the losses, then I guess it's here. Don't like that thinking still.

The Ducks are trailing 1-0 and playing poorly in the first. Everything is working as plan. muhahaha

Picked up their legs and have a PP now. :)

DUCKS SCORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

S. NIEDS!!!! :) :yo:

05.30am over here but Scott Nieds scores!

2-1 Ducks again on the PP.

WHAT A SHOT By SELANNE!!! :) :yo:

Teemu with an absolute laser short side to make it 2-1. PP is deadly right now.

The PP has now scored 8 goals in 3 games...including today's game. :eek:

I predict Getzlaf will have another huge night

He already has 2 assists :yo:

He's already got 2 assists :yo:

Why did they give an assist to Lupul when Mac gave Nieds that pass? I think the scoring is wrong....

IMO, the first goal stats are:

S. Nieds from Andy-Mac and Lupul.

Why did they give an assist to Lupul when Mac gave Nieds that pass? I think the scoring is wrong....
Don't know...I can only listen to the games when they're on FSN West because my cable company blocks them out when they're on there. :(

IMO, the first goal stats are:

S. Nieds from Andy-Mac and Lupul.

Yeah, Getzlaf wont get an assist on that goal...

Yeah, Getzlaf wont get an assist on that goal...

I thought that Lupul shot it, then Andy passed it. :dunno:

EDIT: Did Getzlaf pass to Andy? :confused:

So, he has 1 assist?...still a nice start. :)

Am I the only one utterly confused that Perry isn't out on the PP's given the play of late, especially the goal and assist last night not to mention he's played a very good game of late, at least IMHO..... :dunno:

NHL.COM has indeed changed it.

1st goal
S. NIEDERMAYER (12) A. MCDONALD (39) T. SELANNE (41) on the PP.

2nd goal
T. SELANNE (32) R. GETZLAF (17) on the PP.

I thought that Lupul shot it, then Andy passed it. :dunno:

EDIT: Did Getzlaf pass to Andy? :confused:


Relax, I was just reiterating what you already said. Neids from Mac and Lupul.

Selenne now...

Am I the only one utterly confused that Perry isn't out on the PP's given the play of late, especially the goal and assist last night not to mention he's played a very good game of late, at least IMHO..... :dunno:

Why change a PPL thats 8 for its last 13?

Am I the only one utterly confused that Perry isn't out on the PP's given the play of late, especially the goal and assist last night not to mention he's played a very good game of late, at least IMHO..... :dunno:

The 1 PP unit right now is red hot and putting Perry out there would maybe disrupt the chemistry.
(Perry is on the 2 PP unit.) :)

The 1 PP unit right now is red hot and putting Perry out there would maybe disrupt the chemistry. Perry is on the 2 PP unit. :)

Yeah I missed the first period... was watching the Habs pound on the Leaves... just noticed on the super stats that only the #1 PP unit has hit the ice so far.... carry on :sarcasm:

Game tied 2-2

Perrrrrrrryyyyyyy!

Teeeemuuuuuu!!!

6.15am over her, I'm semi-drunk but I ****ing loving this!!!

After a sloppy start, the Ducks get two beautiful ones!!! :yo:

I guess the strategy of this game is spot the Yotes an early goal each period then score 2.

Quality fight there, none of that jersey hugging like some weak "fights". Fedoruk landed one huge punch on Gratton that backed him up.

Quality fight there, none of that jersey hugging like some weak "fights". Fedoruk landed one huge punch on Gratton that backed him up.

Awesome fight. Edge goes to the Fridge, but Gratton is one tough guy. Great tilt.

That fight looked like a draw. Fedoruk laid a big punch but he took 4-5 in succession at the beginning...good scrap though.


Oh and the interference call was bull. I hate those calls. :shakehead

Interesting note is Lupul is -2 and has played 5 total minutes so far...not good.

Is Lupul heading to pressbox? 5 mins and -2, that's baaaad.

EDIT: It's 7am over here. Can't believe I haven't passed out yet.

Lupul's playing with Marchant, getting very little time. He doesn't do anything.

Is Lupul heading to pressbox? 5 mins and -2, that's baaaad.

EDIT: It's 7am over here. Can't believe I haven't passed out yet.
So you're 11 hours ahead?

Giguere looks great again tonight.

Crap, what a save by LeNevue. Beautiful play by Getz and Perry.

That oughtta do it.

So you're 11 hours ahead?

Yes.

Beauchemin!!!!!

What a blast. 3rd PP goal of the game, 3rd straight game with 5+ goals. :yo:

wow curling reference on the radio

how....obscure....

Mac has two assists in the game. If I'm not mistaken, his 68 points this season is an Anaheim record for points by a center.

Lupul is playing horrible and it really sticks out when everyone else is on fire. Another great game by the twins. Fedoruk steps up again overall happiest ive ever been for a duck season. :handclap:

Mac has two assists in the game. If I'm not mistaken, his 68 points this season is an Anaheim record for points by a center.

AndyMac surpassed that record few games ago. Rucchin had 62 points in 98-99.

Another big win for us, keep it up! :yo:

We win!

Ok, I'm officially outta here. 7.30am and I need to get some sleep.

Bank another one for the ducks thats 6 straight

It's always nice to play our *****.

What a blast by Francois. Wow! :eek:

Another solid game in the books. Now the Ducks get rewarded with a 2 game rest and 5th place postition in the standings. :)

The Duck goals: :D

1st Period

S. NIEDERMAYER (12) A. MCDONALD (39) T. SELANNE (41) on the PP.

T. SELANNE (32) R. GETZLAF (17) on the PP.

2nd Period

C. PERRY (11) R. GETZLAF (18) T. FEDORUK (17) EV.

T. SELANNE (33) C. KUNITZ (15) V. VISHNEVSKI (7) EV.

3rd Period

F. BEAUCHEMIN (7) A. MCDONALD (40) J. LUPUL (22) on the PP.

Shots on goal: :dunno:

34-27 in favor of the Yotes

AndyMac surpassed that record few games ago. Rucchin had 62 points in 98-99.
Nope. I mean, that's true about 98-99, but Rooch also had 67 points in 96-97.

Another solid game and 2 more points. I think Getzlaf has 8 points in his last 3 games, impressive. The winning streak will come to an end soon, but man I really hope is lasts 1 more game. Hopefully with 2 days rest they will come out flying in Colorado tuesday. (A game that is on TSN - Forbesy and BRG).

(A game that is on TSN - Forbesy and BRG).

sweeeet

Its on OLN as well no? Will that game be blacked out in southern cali?

Its on OLN as well no? Will that game be blacked out in southern cali?

http://www.nhl.com/teams/ana/schedule.html

Mar 28 2006, Tue AWAY Avalanche 9:00 PM ET OLN,TSN

I know that OLN games are not shown on Center Ice.

sweeeet
Yea, except the stupid leaf game is on at 7, while the ducks game starts at 9 so we will probably miss almost the entire first period. I sent an email to center ice asking them to put the first period on the center ice but obviously thats not going to happen.

And yes it is on OLN.

We win!

Ok, I'm officially outta here. 7.30am and I need to get some sleep.


Thats what i call a dedicated fan :amazed:

Well here's prediction try #2 (my COL one of 4-1 Ducks was WAY off lol)

5-2 Ducks tonight.

Wow, right on! :clap:
And the Ducks win big again! Yup, I knew they can do it! It wasn't a pretty start, but they got the job done. Woohooo!!!! GO DUCKS!!! :yo:

Oh btw, Teemu Rules! :bow:

Wow, right on! :clap:
And the Ducks win big again! Yup, I knew they can do it! It wasn't a pretty start, but they got the job done. Woohooo!!!! GO DUCKS!!! :yo:

Teemu Rules! :bow:

Great prediction Varius. Congrats.

Keep on predicting away. :)

solid outing tonight. The special teams were outstanding.

Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry each could've had 2 or 3 more points tonight. I hope Corey is ok looks like he hurt his wrist.

Lupul...invisible again.

Selanne...rules, better sign him before he gets too pricey!

Mcdonald..hope he's ok, another great outing from him.

Giguere..he's the key to us going anywhere. He looks good, glad he played tonight.

Our top 4 dmen..Niedermayer, Salei, Vish, Beauchemin all played really well. I don't know what to think about O'Donnell, he does a great job at winning battles and clearing the net but sometimes makes stupid passes.

the officiating was horrible.

solid outing tonight. The special teams were outstanding.

Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry each could've had 2 or 3 more points tonight. I hope Corey is ok looks like he hurt his wrist.

Lupul...invisible again.

Selanne...rules, better sign him before he gets too pricey!

Mcdonald..hope he's ok, another great outing from him.

Giguere..he's the key to us going anywhere. He looks good, glad he played tonight.

Our top 4 dmen..Niedermayer, Salei, Vish, Beauchemin all played really well. I don't know what to think about O'Donnell, he does a great job at winning battles and clearing the net but sometimes makes stupid passes.

the officiating was horrible.

I thought Vish was paired with Dipenta on the last D pairing?

holy **** the kids are playing awesome lately

seems they are getting a lot of ice time too

I hope we can keep this confidence rolling all the way into the playoffs

I read your board and it amuses me to see how a few of you need to always have a whipping boy. Chock doesn't seem to have a positive bone in his body. He waits for 10 good things to go by and then as soon as one bad thing happens he is all over it. With that attitude he should be out being a bad coach for his kids. Now that I have vented, I have some comments about lupul.

In tonights game he was -2. One minus was when a defenceman threw the puck aimlessly up the middle and it was stuffed by Comrie. The second minus he had just stepped on the ice and had done nothing wrong. Doesn't mean he can't improve, but they were both "nothing he could have done". Does NOT mean he can't or shouldn't continue to improve his defensive play but we all know that is not his forte.

He did get 2 assists tonight. On the first goal the puck went from him to Andy Mac and then to Niedermayer into the top corner. He has 24 goals (and no they are not all tap ins or power play goals) and 21 (should be 22) assists. He is 3rd in scoring for forwards on the team. When he plays on the power play it produces. Watch how many times he gives the puck away on the power play. Close to none. All good continuation passes.

It would be nice if he was a franchise player and could do it himself but he is not.
He is "invisible" (by the way, I really dislike subjective evaluations with no basis) because he for the most part is being misused. He plays with Todd who wouldn't know a give and go if it hit him between the eyes. Give the puck to Todd and you never see it again. Same with Hedstrom, except he works his butt off so it is hard to criticize. The fact is that Lupul is not a power forward who will knock people around. He is a skill player who will produce goals if put in the right position. The second line is almost a throw away right now because they have no chemistry.
Hard to argue with Getzlaf, Perry and Fedoruk now but a few games ago it was obvious to me that Getzlaf and Perry should be playing with lupul regardless of who shoots right or left. Make it work.

On power plays he is asked to stand in front of the net and he does that. When he does get up on the half wall he generally makes good plays.

At even strength, he is asked to forecheck first and force the pass. He does that but, again, is not a power forward so he will sometimes be out muscled on the boards.

In his own end he is asked to chip the puck out of the zone and not overhandle it. He has become very good at that.

He pretty much does everything he is asked to do even though the tasks to not fit his skill set. That is why he might seem invisible at times, because the puck rarely gets on his stick for any length of time.

After all of that he has 24 G and 21 A playing with offensive pylons. Put him with a play making centerman and I guarantee he scores 35 a year no problem. I don't know about the guys on this board, but I have done some coaching and when you score 35 a year in the NHL it's ok if some of the other facets of your game aren't perfect.

The Ducks are having a hell of a run. They are playing great as a team. Try to focus on that instead of picking apart your whipping boy whenever he makes a mistake. There is a reason Burke still has him on the team and some of you guys just don't get that. If Burke doesn't want him I can guarantee you that there are
at least 25 other Gm's who would gladly take him and put his skills to way better use than playing with Jonathan and Todd. He is 22 years old and basically only in his second year in the league. He will continue to improve. Lighten up.

There, I got it off my chest. Dis away.

I read your board and it amuses me to see how a few of you need to always have a whipping boy. Chock doesn't seem to have a positive bone in his body. He waits for 10 good things to go by and then as soon as one bad thing happens he is all over it. With that attitude he should be out being a bad coach for his kids. Now that I have vented, I have some comments about lupul.

In tonights game he was -2. One minus was when a defenceman threw the puck aimlessly up the middle and it was stuffed by Comrie. The second minus he had just stepped on the ice and had done nothing wrong. Doesn't mean he can't improve, but they were both "nothing he could have done". Does NOT mean he can't or shouldn't continue to improve his defensive play but we all know that is not his forte.

He did get 2 assists tonight. On the first goal the puck went from him to Andy Mac and then to Niedermayer into the top corner. He has 24 goals (and no they are not all tap ins or power play goals) and 21 (should be 22) assists. He is 3rd in scoring for forwards on the team. When he plays on the power play it produces. Watch how many times he gives the puck away on the power play. Close to none. All good continuation passes.

It would be nice if he was a franchise player and could do it himself but he is not.
He is "invisible" (by the way, I really dislike subjective evaluations with no basis) because he for the most part is being misused. He plays with Todd who wouldn't know a give and go if it hit him between the eyes. Give the puck to Todd and you never see it again. Same with Hedstrom, except he works his butt off so it is hard to criticize. The fact is that Lupul is not a power forward who will knock people around. He is a skill player who will produce goals if put in the right position. The second line is almost a throw away right now because they have no chemistry.
Hard to argue with Getzlaf, Perry and Fedoruk now but a few games ago it was obvious to me that Getzlaf and Perry should be playing with lupul regardless of who shoots right or left. Make it work.

On power plays he is asked to stand in front of the net and he does that. When he does get up on the half wall he generally makes good plays.

At even strength, he is asked to forecheck first and force the pass. He does that but, again, is not a power forward so he will sometimes be out muscled on the boards.

In his own end he is asked to chip the puck out of the zone and not overhandle it. He has become very good at that.

He pretty much does everything he is asked to do even though the tasks to not fit his skill set. That is why he might seem invisible at times, because the puck rarely gets on his stick for any length of time.

After all of that he has 24 G and 21 A playing with offensive pylons. Put him with a play making centerman and I guarantee he scores 35 a year no problem. I don't know about the guys on this board, but I have done some coaching and when you score 35 a year in the NHL it's ok if some of the other facets of your game aren't perfect.

The Ducks are having a hell of a run. They are playing great as a team. Try to focus on that instead of picking apart your whipping boy whenever he makes a mistake. There is a reason Burke still has him on the team and some of you guys just don't get that. If Burke doesn't want him I can guarantee you that there are
at least 25 other Gm's who would gladly take him and put his skills to way better use than playing with Jonathan and Todd. He is 22 years old and basically only in his second year in the league. He will continue to improve. Lighten up.

There, I got it off my chest. Dis away.

At the Pond I noticed that he has stepped up the physical play a bit, but he just cant create anything on his own right now. Maybe in a few years but right now he needs a decent offensive center to feed him the puck and he just doesnt get that from Marchant. Its not all Lupul's fault but there is a reason he only played 5 minutes in 2 periods.

*sigh*

I could pick this apart pretty easily, but I'm still happy from all the winning. The one specific thing I'll say is Andy Mac is no power forward and somehow manages to win most of his battles. Sometimes, instead of doing the butt-check, you have to just nut up.

Fanboy though you are, you and I don't disagree. You think it's okay that he sucks at everything but picking the corner with his shots. I don't. He could be a more complete player if he wanted to. You forgive him for that, and again I don't. Put him with a playmaking center and give him his head and I agree he certainly could be a 35 goal man, but he'd be a -10 doing it.

It's easy for Lupul to be the whipping boy because he doesn't do anything consistantly. If he was a consistant offensive player it would be a bit easier to tolerate his lethargic play, but he doesn't hit anyone, he always gives away the puck, doesn't go to dirty areas.

He should start hanging out with Corey Perry.

You know Perry and Getzlaf have been fantastic since they've come back from the AHL. I was in support of them going down to start the season and get called up mid-season, I'm wondering if they had been sent down to start the season and then called up in November if they would have better stats right now. Can't argue with the current results though, they both regained their confidence in the AHL and have been playing well ever since.

That fight looked like a draw. Fedoruk laid a big punch but he took 4-5 in succession at the beginning...good scrap though.



Fedoruk with the edge/win for sure. Gratton ran out of gas and Fedoruk landed a clean bomb. The linesmen basically saved Gratton, Fedoruk could have really hurt him.

I didn't get to watch this one live...just watched it on video..

another good road game for the Ducks.

-Giguere looks good in net right now

-Lupul is officially our whipping boy. Healthy scratch him, get Moen in there.

-Perry and Getzlaf looking more and more comfortable in the NHL. Hopefully Perry's wrist is alright.

-Selanne is in the zone right now.

-Fedoruk did his job, and earned the decision/win against Gratton.

Lupul - 69 games played.

He has points in 31 of them. Goals in 19 of them. He's only been a plus player 15 times all season. He has 5 points in his last 14 games.

For the most part, Lupul doesn't do anything.

Compare it to McDonald - 70 games played

Points in 46. Goals in 22. He's been plus or even 62 times. 7 points in his last 3, a billion points in his last 20 or so games.

You know Perry and Getzlaf have been fantastic since they've come back from the AHL. I was in support of them going down to start the season and get called up mid-season, I'm wondering if they had been sent down to start the season and then called up in November if they would have better stats right now. Can't argue with the current results though, they both regained their confidence in the AHL and have been playing well ever since.
I don't know, I think Burke/Carlyle wanted to send them a good message by rewarding them with NHL minutes after a great training camp. I think the plan all along was to have them here mid season.

Getzlaf rules..he's no Marc Chouinard...he'll actually hit guys with that big frame.

Compare it to McDonald - 70 games played

Points in 46. Goals in 22. He's been plus or even 62 times. 7 points in his last 3, a billion points in his last 20 or so games.
Lupul...PWNED by CFOB!

Btw, did you notice Todd Fedoruk outskating Paul Mara to the loose puck and creating a very good scoring chance for Getzlaf? I know Fridge can skate but man, he's very fast for a guy of his size.

Great prediction Varius. Congrats.

Keep on predicting away. :)

Thanks....I just got home from partying, to see my prediction hit dead on - that rocks!!!

I'll try and bring us another win with prediction #3 :yo:

Does anyone have decent video of Teemu's first goal? I mean with replays. I have seen NHL.com highlighs.

I read your board and it amuses me to see how a few of you need to always have a whipping boy. Chock doesn't seem to have a positive bone in his body. He waits for 10 good things to go by and then as soon as one bad thing happens he is all over it. With that attitude he should be out being a bad coach for his kids. Now that I have vented, I have some comments about lupul.

In tonights game he was -2. One minus was when a defenceman threw the puck aimlessly up the middle and it was stuffed by Comrie. The second minus he had just stepped on the ice and had done nothing wrong. Doesn't mean he can't improve, but they were both "nothing he could have done". Does NOT mean he can't or shouldn't continue to improve his defensive play but we all know that is not his forte.

He did get 2 assists tonight. On the first goal the puck went from him to Andy Mac and then to Niedermayer into the top corner. He has 24 goals (and no they are not all tap ins or power play goals) and 21 (should be 22) assists. He is 3rd in scoring for forwards on the team. When he plays on the power play it produces. Watch how many times he gives the puck away on the power play. Close to none. All good continuation passes.

It would be nice if he was a franchise player and could do it himself but he is not.
He is "invisible" (by the way, I really dislike subjective evaluations with no basis) because he for the most part is being misused. He plays with Todd who wouldn't know a give and go if it hit him between the eyes. Give the puck to Todd and you never see it again. Same with Hedstrom, except he works his butt off so it is hard to criticize. The fact is that Lupul is not a power forward who will knock people around. He is a skill player who will produce goals if put in the right position. The second line is almost a throw away right now because they have no chemistry.
Hard to argue with Getzlaf, Perry and Fedoruk now but a few games ago it was obvious to me that Getzlaf and Perry should be playing with lupul regardless of who shoots right or left. Make it work.

On power plays he is asked to stand in front of the net and he does that. When he does get up on the half wall he generally makes good plays.

At even strength, he is asked to forecheck first and force the pass. He does that but, again, is not a power forward so he will sometimes be out muscled on the boards.

In his own end he is asked to chip the puck out of the zone and not overhandle it. He has become very good at that.

He pretty much does everything he is asked to do even though the tasks to not fit his skill set. That is why he might seem invisible at times, because the puck rarely gets on his stick for any length of time.

After all of that he has 24 G and 21 A playing with offensive pylons. Put him with a play making centerman and I guarantee he scores 35 a year no problem. I don't know about the guys on this board, but I have done some coaching and when you score 35 a year in the NHL it's ok if some of the other facets of your game aren't perfect.

The Ducks are having a hell of a run. They are playing great as a team. Try to focus on that instead of picking apart your whipping boy whenever he makes a mistake. There is a reason Burke still has him on the team and some of you guys just don't get that. If Burke doesn't want him I can guarantee you that there are
at least 25 other Gm's who would gladly take him and put his skills to way better use than playing with Jonathan and Todd. He is 22 years old and basically only in his second year in the league. He will continue to improve. Lighten up.

There, I got it off my chest. Dis away.

100% agreed.It's no question,that he's not playing very well lately,but he's stilla young guy and he scored 44 points,while playing with guys like Marchant or Hedström,who don't show too much offense.Give him a good playmaker and wait,if he will improve;I'm sure he will.I can't believe that you think that negatviely about him!I'm happy,we have such a talented young goalscorer in our team!

Praise a player and there is a lovefest. Criticize a player and he is the whipping boy. Can't we all just get along?

Praise a player and there is a lovefest. Criticize a player and he is the whipping boy. Can't we all just get along?


Just trying to provide some balance to the negativity over the last couple of weeks.
Coincidentally, and I purposely did not mention this because I never liked injuries as an excuse when I played, he has a hyper extended knee and has been playing hurt with a brace over the last 3 weeks. He is more committed than you might think.

He has a hyper extended knee and has been playing hurt with a brace over the last 3 weeks.

can you provide proof of this?

Can't we just get along?

I know, let's start bashing Pahlsson! Who's with me?

can you provide proof of this?
I think it's true, because Hayward and Ahlers actually mentioned it quite a few times during broadcast.

Compare it to McDonald - 70 games played

Points in 46. Goals in 22. He's been plus or even 62 times. 7 points in his last 3, a billion points in his last 20 or so games.

I believe that can be turned around to support my point. If lupul plays with mcdonald (a play making center), just on puck possession alone his plus minus is better and he has more points. One of the reasons a top line generally has a really good plus minus is because they have the puck so much. To have good puck possession you need to play as a unit and the M/H/L line does not. Selanne tends to support mcdonald's stats and either one would do the same with lupul. Only a franchise player can stand on his own. It is not an accident that Mcdonald's "breakout" season has been accomplished playing with a health Selanne.
That is not to take away from Andy MCdonald. It is just a fact.

Fedoruk with the edge/win for sure. Gratton ran out of gas and Fedoruk landed a clean bomb. The linesmen basically saved Gratton, Fedoruk could have really hurt him.

You guys are funny. Obviously you didnt see Gratton fight Mark Bell. The "Fridge" looked pathetic against Gratton. He only landed one clean shot. Mark Bell was quoted as saying "I hit him 5 times cleanly and he didnt go down. never seen that before." The refs didnt save anyone except Fedoruk. Louie De Brusk tracks all the fighters and was commenting that Gratton loves long fights because the other guys tire out and he doesnt.

For a fighter, Fedoruk looked bad.

I think it's true, because Hayward and Ahlers actually mentioned it quite a few times during broadcast.

fair enough, I've never heard it before...

can you provide proof of this?

I don't know what you might mean by proof. Let's just say that I would not make the statement without having the knowledge myself.

You guys are funny. Obviously you didnt see Gratton fight Mark Bell. The "Fridge" looked pathetic against Gratton. He only landed one clean shot. Mark Bell was quoted as saying "I hit him 5 times cleanly and he didnt go down. never seen that before." The refs didnt save anyone except Fedoruk. Louie De Brusk tracks all the fighters and was commenting that Gratton loves long fights because the other guys tire out and he doesnt.

For a fighter, Fedoruk looked bad.

Fedoruk started the fight poorly because his helmet was stuck to his chest. He got going once the helmet was gone. Overall, it was a draw. I didn't like how Gratton was ready to get out after Fedoruk got the upper hand at the end of the fight. He had no problems punching away when Fedoruk wanted to shake loose that helmet.

On other note, I really hope Andy Mac and Perry are okay! I got worried there a bit seeing them limping after a hit. I believe according to LA Times, Andy Mac had a muscle cramp. No mentioned about Perry though, so I guess he's fine.

It's no question, that he's not playing very well lately,but he's still a young guy and he scored 44 points,while playing with guys like Marchant or Hedström,who don't show too much offense.

See we agree, he's playing badly right now. We only differ in that you give him a free pass on that using his linemates and age as an excuse.

Lupul has the talent and skill to not suck. Based on that, I expect him to not suck. Is that so wrong?

Compare it to McDonald - 70 games played

Points in 46. Goals in 22. He's been plus or even 62 times. 7 points in his last 3, a billion points in his last 20 or so games.

McDonald's effort is really unbelievable. However, you have to point out that Andymac plays with Selanne. How many of those assists would be taken off if Selanne wasn't on his line? I'm not comparing Andymac and Lupul. Andymac has been miles better this year, but I also think Lupul is getting the shaft. I don't think he is having a good season, but he's not having a terrible one either. I'd like to see more effort, but to me it's hard to compare them when Andymac has Selanne, and Lupul has Marchant. Like ringleader said, I'd really like to see him on the LW on one of the top 2 lines.

You guys are funny. Obviously you didnt see Gratton fight Mark Bell. The "Fridge" looked pathetic against Gratton. He only landed one clean shot. Mark Bell was quoted as saying "I hit him 5 times cleanly and he didnt go down. never seen that before." The refs didnt save anyone except Fedoruk. Louie De Brusk tracks all the fighters and was commenting that Gratton loves long fights because the other guys tire out and he doesnt.

For a fighter, Fedoruk looked bad.

Hmm, I suggest that you watch that fight again. I know all 'Yotes fans are pretty obsessed with this Gratton character, but he didn't win that fight. It was either a draw or slightly in Fedoruk's favor. First off, Gratton should've let Fedoruk get his helmet down to the ice when it was attatched to his jersey or whatever, it was obvious that he was a rookie.

Gratton loves long fights because the other guys tire out and he doesnt.

Whether that's true or not, I don't know. I DO know that Gratton either tired in that fight or he didn't want to get that living shiit pounded out of him at the end there. Fedoruk had him all sqaured up, and Gratton leaned away from Todd, then just turned towards the linesman, as if to say "For the love of Pahlsson, get me out of here!"

See we agree, he's playing badly right now. We only differ in that you give him a free pass on that using his linemates and age as an excuse.

Lupul has the talent and skill to not suck. Based on that, I expect him to not suck. Is that so wrong?

Define "suck" in a context that actually has some merit.
If you say he doesn't hit, check the extended stats. He does.
If you say he is inconsistent, what is that? And, aren't they all at times.
If you say he has a bad plus minus, we have already addressed that.
If you say you don't like his looks, that doesn't count.
With respect, when you make a point please try not to use vague generalizations like "he sucks".

Congrats Ducks to a great regular season. Thanks for nothing for kicking the crap out of the Coyotes this year. I sure hope this domination ends next season.

Oh and regarding the Fridge/Gratton fight...I'll give the slight edge to Fedoruk. Regardless a great fight by 2 honorable tough guys.

No need to say Gratton looked to the linesmen for help. If you don't know now, that's not something he does. They are good friends & ex-teammates. The two combatants knew the fight was over.

good luck in the postseason.

I hate you.

Congrats Ducks to a great regular season. Thanks for nothing for kicking the crap out of the Coyotes this year. I sure hope this domination ends next season.

Oh and regarding the Fridge/Gratton fight...I'll give the slight edge to Fedoruk. Regardless a great fight by 2 honorable tough guys.

No need to say Gratton looked to the linesmen for help. If you don't know now, that's not something he does. They are good friends & ex-teammates. The two combatants knew the fight was over.

good luck in the postseason.

I hate you.

Hah. Well, Phoenix has tons of money to spend this summer right? If I'm not mistaken, they only have something like 17 million rapped up in contracts for next season? That's a lot of wiggle room. I look for them to make a play at someone like Elias or Savard. IMO, the Pacific will be the toughest division next year.

Congrats Ducks to a great regular season. Thanks for nothing for kicking the crap out of the Coyotes this year. I sure hope this domination ends next season.

Oh and regarding the Fridge/Gratton fight...I'll give the slight edge to Fedoruk. Regardless a great fight by 2 honorable tough guys.

No need to say Gratton looked to the linesmen for help. If you don't know now, that's not something he does. They are good friends & ex-teammates. The two combatants knew the fight was over.

good luck in the postseason.

I hate you.

Well at least you got right to the point lol. Anyway, I think the only reason there was people saying that is because someone came here and said Fedoruk got lucky because he was tired, when in reality he was getting ready to start throwing some bombs since his helmet was out of his way.

Well at least you got right to the point lol. Anyway, I think the only reason there was people saying that is because someone came here and said Fedoruk got lucky because he was tired, when in reality he was getting ready to start throwing some bombs since his helmet was out of his way.

I understand where you are coming from.

Hah. Well, Phoenix has tons of money to spend this summer right? If I'm not mistaken, they only have something like 17 million rapped up in contracts for next season? That's a lot of wiggle room. I look for them to make a play at someone like Elias or Savard. IMO, the Pacific will be the toughest division next year.



Barnett has said they have about $22M and that they plan on going after 2, if not 3 top-tier free agents. I'm hoping for Chara/Redden/Blake & Sakic/Elias. One of the D & one of the forwards & I'll be ecstatic.

Barnett has said they have about $22M and that they plan on going after 2, if not 3 top-tier free agents. I'm hoping for Chara/Redden/Blake & Sakic/Elias. One of the D & one of the forwards & I'll be ecstatic.

I can see them landing Chara and Elias. But I don't think there's anyway Sakic leaves Colorado.

I believe that can be turned around to support my point. If lupul plays with mcdonald (a play making center), just on puck possession alone his plus minus is better and he has more points. One of the reasons a top line generally has a really good plus minus is because they have the puck so much. To have good puck possession you need to play as a unit and the M/H/L line does not. Selanne tends to support mcdonald's stats and either one would do the same with lupul. Only a franchise player can stand on his own. It is not an accident that Mcdonald's "breakout" season has been accomplished playing with a health Selanne.
That is not to take away from Andy MCdonald. It is just a fact.
This is just an unnecessary elaboration on the theme. Of course Lupul would produce more points on a line with McDonald, or Selanne, or both of them, or any player that could do the work for him. I never said Lupul couldn't produce that way.

McDonald creates offense. All by himself. Even though he's small and less skilled than Joffrey, he's determined enough to go all out and bright enough to use his best asset to open up options, and then recognize those options.

Lupul shoots. That's what he does. He has a hell of a shot. What he offers is overshadowed by the problems he causes with his soft play - he has the worst +/- for any forward on the team (Friesen's is worse, but he doesn't exist). You like to blame Marchant and Hedstrom for Joffrey's problems, but even without anything approaching Joffrey's offensive contributions their defensive stats are much much better, both of them.

If they're dragging Lupul down offensively, is he dragging down their plus/minus? I think so.

Hell, even Getzlaf is producing on an equal level to Lupul, and he's playing with another rookie and a goon.

I know it's a team sport, but everyone has to contribute individually. Lupul doesn't do enough, certainly not considering all his talent. I still have very high hopes for him. He's not a whipping boy, but he is the laziest player on the team, and he's not going to be loved for that. Sorry it bothers you.

Just trying to provide some balance to the negativity over the last couple of weeks.
Coincidentally, and I purposely did not mention this because I never liked injuries as an excuse when I played, he has a hyper extended knee and has been playing hurt with a brace over the last 3 weeks. He is more committed than you might think.
everyones playing hurt, the difference with him is his play is NOTICEABLY suffering. He needs to find a way to make positive contributions every night. It doesn't have to be scoring. It can be hitting, backchecking, playing in dirty areas, he needs to show signs of life.

Is his line situation ideal? no of course not but Marchant does good things EVERY GAME! Say what you will about him but he is gritty, he blocks shots, he's excellent defensively and brings it every night.

I would like to see Lupul scratched for one game..he just needs a wakeup call.

(Friesen's is worse, but he doesn't exist)

:biglaugh: :biglaugh: :biglaugh:

If you say he doesn't hit, check the extended stats. He does.

He had no hits in the last two games. Take your own advice.

If you say he is inconsistent, what is that? And, aren't they all at times.

Yes, and when they are they get called out for it. Accountability.

With respect, when you make a point please try not to use vague generalizations like "he sucks".

How about in the 13 games since 3/1 he has just 3 goals and 2 assists. 4 of those points came on the PP. THAT IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH. Not for a 2nd line player of his talent and a guy on the 1st PP unit.

If you choose to blame Marchant for all of that just say so and we'll call it day.

You guys are funny. Obviously you didnt see Gratton fight Mark Bell. The "Fridge" looked pathetic against Gratton. He only landed one clean shot. Mark Bell was quoted as saying "I hit him 5 times cleanly and he didnt go down. never seen that before." The refs didnt save anyone except Fedoruk. Louie De Brusk tracks all the fighters and was commenting that Gratton loves long fights because the other guys tire out and he doesnt.

For a fighter, Fedoruk looked bad.

Did you watch the fight??? Gratton asked the linesmen to come in...he had no energy!!!!! watch the fight again please! and never troll our board again!

Gratton put all his energy in at the beginning...Fedoruk is a smart fighter he waited him out and then landed a bomb...that's how he fights...Gratton had no energy left...at that point either the linesmen save Gratton or he goes to the hospital.

Fedoruk is the veteran, Gratton is the kid...they played a year together in the AHL during the lockout. Fedoruk knew exactly what he was doing.

props to Gratton for trying to make a name for himself. but don't come on our board and troll about Fedoruk looking bad as a fighter.

No need to say Gratton looked to the linesmen for help. If you don't know now, that's not something he does. They are good friends & ex-teammates. The two combatants knew the fight was over.



I disagree. Fedoruk had gotten the upperhand and wanted more. Yeah they are freinds, but I could tell from Fedoruk's body language that he wasn't ready for the fight to end.

It happens sometimes, a good fight and one guy is out of gas and the other guy wants the fight to keep going. Nothing against Gratton I think he will keep getting better but Fedoruk had him at the end.

They are good friends & ex-teammates.
Yea, at the end of the fight they both nodded and said good fight. It was nice to see.