Darryl Katz bought the Edmonton Oilers in the early summer of 2008. These years later, it looks like the organization he has put in place (on his fourth try) has reached the point of being truly competitive, in the spring of 2021. Last night the Oilers defeated a quality team desperate to win by playing a mature, patient game and taking advantage of opportunities. The wins against Winnipeg signal a brand new day.
Stuart Skinner is a major story for Oilers future. As of yesterday, he was stopping 93% of the pucks aimed at him (up from 89%). Is this real? What factors are impacting his numbers? Click on link to find out + take advantage of $1/mo subscription offer! https://t.co/0nTZnkqOCB
I’m proud to be writing for The Athletic, and pleased to be part of a great team with Daniel Nugent-Bowman and Jonathan Willis. Here is our recent work.
New Lowetide: Has Oilers goalie prospect Stuart Skinner turned a corner?
Lowetide: Where does Zack Kassian fit on the Oilers, now and in the future?
Lowetide: Oilers’ midseason depth chart informs their needs for trade deadline and beyond
Oilers in 2015-16: 14-18-2, 30 points; goal differential -17
Oilers in 2016-17: 17-12-5, 39 points; goal differential +5
Oilers in 2017-18: 15-17-2, 32 points; goal differential -8
Oilers in 2018-19: 18-13-3, 39 points; goal differential +3
Oilers in 2019-20: 18-12-4, 40 points; goal differential +1
Oilers in 2020-21: 21-13-0, 42 points; goal differential +17
It’s an impressive run through 34 games, I’m not sure this team could have gotten more out of the season to this point. Now, you’d love a normal year where you could tweak here or there with a trade, but these men have been through the wars of the season and are balanced or close, with sufficient (or near) depth. Saturday night was an important night for the franchise.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN MARCH
At home to: Toronto, Toronto, Calgary (Expected: 1-1-1) (Actual 1-2-0)
At home to: Ottawa, Ottawa, Ottawa (Expected: 2-1-0) (Actual 3-0-0)
On the road to: Vancouver, Calgary, Calgary (Expected: 2-1-0) (Actual 1-2-0)
At home to Winnipeg, Winnipeg (Expected: 1-1-0) (Actual 2-0-0)
On the road to: Montreal, Montreal, Montreal (Expected 2-1-0) (Actual 0-0-0)
On the road to: Toronto, Toronto (Expected 1-1-0) (Actual 0-0-0)
Overall expected result: 9-6-1, 19 points in 16 games
Current results: 7-4-0, 14 points in 11 games
This long road trip will be a test, and it’s possible the five eastern games bring disappointing results. I picked Edmonton to finish second in the Canadian division, and never contemplated a first-place finish. I’m still not there, but you have to be impressed with this group.
LINES, LAST NIGHT
Nuge-McDavid-Puljujarvi played 8:57, going 10-6 shots, 1-0 goals, 4-2 HDSC and 17-7 Corsi five on five. Nuge had six shots, one HDSC and picked up an assist, he had a strong game. McDavid went 1-1-2 with nine shot attempts, two HDSC and wall to wall excitement. There was plenty of talk about who should match up against 97, but the lines he played on scored against pretty much everyone last night. This wasn’t his most impressive trio (see below). Jesse Puljujarvi what might have been his strongest game, and at one point looked to have three assists, then two, and as of this writing one. No matter, he had three HDSC at five on five, seven shot attempts and numbers impressive plays without the puck.
Ennis-Haas-Kassian played 8:06, going 3-4 shots, 1-1 HDSC and 6-5 Corsi five on five. Ennis had three shots and one HDSC, Haas took a penalty, tripped himself trying to corral a pass, and had several moments where he got the puck out past the blue line or got in the way on a Jets’ rush. Kassian flattened Ehlers and could have been in real trouble but there was no call (it was a weird night that way). Kassian is playing a determined, responsible game.
Kahun-Draisaitl-Archibald played 7:45, going 5-8 shots, 0-1 goals, 0-3 HDSC and 7-11 Corsi five on five. This line didn’t last the game, but Kahun had two shots and a HDSC. Draisaitl scored 1-0-1 but not with this line. I remarked about a small ‘c’ careless backpass at the blue line that came back into Edmonton’s end and a few seconds later he was sending a laser through the heart of the Jets. Archibald had two HDSC’s and played well but he doesn’t have the skills to run with 29.
Shore-Khaira-Chiasson played 6:07, going 0-4 shots and 1-8 Corsi. Shore scored an empty net goal from Innisfail, Khaira had a couple of nice looks, Chiasson was quiet.
Draisaitl-McDavid-Puljujarvi played 4:31, going 9-1 shots, 2-0 goals, 3-0 HDSC and 13-5 Corsi five on five. This line was put together late because Tippett needed 2 goals. What an amazing bullet to have in the chamber. They were fire.
PAIRS AND GOALIE
Nurse-Barrie played 16:58, going 15-9 shots, 3-0 goals, 4-2 HDSC and 28-12 Corsi five on five. Nurse scored a tremendous goal, you could see him aim and fire with less torque than normal in an effort to hit a specific spot. That’s real skill. Impressive player. Blocked four shots and had a takeaway. Barrie had 10 shot attempts, was tested defensively (Jets were aggressive forechecking) and needs to quicken his pass/shoot decisions on the power play. Both men are having tremendous seasons with the Oilers.
Russell-Bear played 12:31, going 6-4 shots, no goals, 3-0 HDSC and 11-8 Corsi five on five. Russell had a 10-bell chance and two giveaways, Bear played his strongest game in many months. The clock was ticking down and the puck was headed net-front with bad ideas when the young blue corralled it and carried it to safety. It won’t show up in the stats but was key in a one-goal game. He also drew a penalty and his passing is such an asset.
Lagesson-Larsson played 11:31, going 2-8 shots, 0-1 goals, 0-2 HDSC and 6-12 Corsi five on five. but the pairing was was 1-5 with the Khaira line and 5-7 elsewhere. That signals (to me) getting caught out there against Ehlers with much tragedy ensuing (that’s what happened, it was a wicked series of bounces). Lagesson got leveled on a hit from behind (no penalty) and he coughed up the puck a couple of times. He took 12 hits in the series against Winnipeg, that might be a record. Larsson is a bull wandering around the yard looking for someone to earn the horns. Good lord he’s a load. A takeaway, moved the puck reasonably well.
Mike Smith stopped 29 of 31, .935 last night, he is .922 for the season and at five on five his save percentage (.930) is No. 15 among goalies who have played 150+ minutes this season. If you get a chance watch Tippett’s post-game interview. These two men have been to war together for many years, there’s much admiration in Tippett’s avail.
CONDORS NOTES
I watched the Condors game yesterday (and will again today) and have a few notes:
Stuart Skinner, who I wrote about for The Athletic yesterday, got pulled after giving up six goals. Sounds tragic, but the Ontario Reign have fantastic young talent and they were feeling it in what is the best period of hockey I’ve ever seen at that level (second period).
Tyler Benson delivered two groovy passes to set up goals, I can’t believe that passing skill will be kept out of the NHL for much longer. Suspect a bottom-six LW job in the next year.
Cooper Marody is the straw that stirs the drink, but had just one goal on the afternoon. He continues to lead the AHL in scoring.
Ryan McLeod was the best player on the ice. He was skating like the wind, leading offensive sorties, back-checking like a demon and scoring 2-1-3. He’s NHL-ready.
Blake Christensen scored twice, the second one a howitzer from range. He’s on an AHL deal but could get an NHL contract (as could James Hamblin) if he continues to play like he did Saturday.
Yanni Kaldis doesn’t have a pro resume really at all, but he can play. Another AHL deal.
Whoa, with NorthEastern not making that NCAA tournament, the Oilers have signed Kesselring to an ELC starting 2021/22 and an AHL contract for the rest of this season – he’s on his way to the Bake.
Didn’t think they’d sign him quite yet – potentially signing him early to remove the walk risk as he gets closer to his senior year.
I’m good with this. Lets him get an easy break into the AHL now and see what that’s like and what the big differences are between College and the Pros.
Mayan Oil
March 21, 2021 11:07 pm
As much as I am enjoying the Oilers turnaround this year, it is surprising how much less competitive the league is under this temporary alignment. Judging by standing points +/- to games played, under the current format, EDM/TOR/WPG/MTL are likely in – CAL/VAN/OTT out. VEG/COL/MIN/STL likely in, LA with a slim chance at +2 to STL +6. WAS/NYI PIT BOS in PHI with dimming hopes at +4 to BOS/PIT +8. TB/FLA/CAR in with CLB /CHI at +1 and DAL at 0, even NAS at -3 looking for the last spot in their Division. That’s 21 teams still with hope and 10 out of luck, at just past the halfway point.
Sorted into the usual divisions, VEG/EDM solidly in with LA at 3rd in the Pacific at +3, trying to hold off Cal +1, Van and Ari at 0.Even SJ and NAS at -3 have a chance – Only ANA would look out of it at -8. In the Central, it would be COL/MIN/WPG/STL comfortably in the lead, with CHI/CAL at +1, DAL/ARI/VAN at 0 NAS/SJ at -3 fighting for the last wildcard. That would be 14 of 15 Western Conference teams still playing meaningful games – only ANA sucking the tailpipe.
In the East, you would have TB/FLA/TOR/WAS/CAR/NYI all in a comfortable lead for top three in their divisions, BOS/PIT currently holding the two wildcard spots at +8. MTL +6 and PHI +4 would still have a reasonable chance of competing. Everyone else is +1 or worse – as bad as -13 for BUF! That means 10 of 16 Eastern Conference teams still in the hunt under the prior alignment. CLB/NYR/NJ/DET/OTT/BUF all going through the motions.
That’s 24 of 31 still in the hunt. As it is, one of the usual Eastern Divisions might see a pretty good 5th place team miss the playoffs, even though in an ordinary year they could send five by claiming both wildcards…
These playoffs are going be insane when they finally arrive…
I am loving this season, for the fact that we get an Original 7 Canadian only season for us to finally settle bragging rights for as long as none of us win the cup.
Oilers are using this season wisely; building from the defence out and this easily translates to the rest of the NHL watching Oiler highlights and hopefully they believe Oilers, if they get out of the division like I expect they will can offer say, a larger helping of Shock.
Winnipeg have just shown how a well balanced solid team gets to go home empty when playing the 2 best players in hockey since Mario/Jagr. They can try as hard as they might, but if they want to keep the score close from the first moment of the game they have to defer to McDavid/Draisaitl 10/10 X
At the end of the last Jets contest I was ready to sing the praises of whoever drafted Draisaitl, and who got us McDavid.
PS: The only non North division team I have seen is Vegas and they look terrific. Then so did Toronto. Who knows?
ProfessorBooty
March 21, 2021 8:26 pm
For those looking for something to watch when the Oil are resting – after reading Lowetide’s prose regarding the old Winnipeg Arena in the GDT yesterday, I re-watched the pseudo-documentary “My Winnipeg” by Canadian filmmaker Guy Maddin as part of his retrospective in the Criterion Collection. Highly recommended – especially for old souls and hockey lovers. It captures the mystique of an old hockey barn in a way that makes the new “WiFi” arenas look bad.
R.I.P. Northlands Coliseum. The draft beer just doesn’t hit the same way without you…
– Given the validation that Smith has shown Tipp for being a warrior, is there any doubt that he’s not the starting goalie and gets re-upped this off-season?
– Thats a problem. I’m not sure its as big a long-term problem as had they signed Mark for size and term, and bought out Koski. Sometimes in life its the things that don’t happen that you really wanted to that make the difference
– Hope they don’t go whale-hunting again this off-season for a better goalie. But I don’t know: surely they can’t go Smith-Koski again.
– Good for Smith and his timing: not playing 14 in 27 when the team was struggling, then gifted his status: he’s a proxy for the team so far., which is way better than last year.
It’s a weird situation. Given Smith’s age you’d expect him to fall off a little bit, but here he is playing like a true #1 starter. Feel like Koski is the one who will be in trouble for a new contract sooner than later, but how long do you expect Smith to keep this up for? They both feel like stopgap options right now and I wouldn’t be surprised if Holland is on the hunt for longer term options this off-season and definitely next.
That said, wouldn’t be surprised if they re-sign Smith for another year and it this point it wouldn’t even upset me that much as long as the dollars were reasonable.
Maybe Smith, Koski, with Skinner getting a look next year? Or is that just silly talk?
Stalock is also under contract for next year, at a nominal amount.
Also, lets not discount that actual structural and technique changes in Smith’s game. I’m far from a goalie expert so am just going for the words of an actual goalie expert (Kevin Woodley) who has gone in to great detail on changes Smith made to his game. What I can say is the “lunging” at the puck, that was a huge problem last year, is all but gone from his game so far this season and that was the focus of his off-season work (from accounts).
I keep waiting for the technique to revert (I’m just not sure an off-season of work at 38 years old would sustainably change a career’s technique) but, so far, so good.
1) Tip provided the same validation for Smith last year did he not? While, ultimately, Holland did bring him back, Smith was clearly not Holland’s primary option and Holland expressed that to Smith (and his representatives). There is no surety that Smith is brought back in my mind
2) Of course a team’s play has an effect on goaltending performance but I simply cannot agree that a goaltender’s performance is solely a representation of the team. I cannot agree that the team just magically started to play better when Smith returned and Smith’s performance is purely a result of that. Smith was VERY good early – one could just as easily argue that the tender playing well provided confidence to the team helping them play better. The team also clearly improves in puck retrieval and transition with Smith in the net and that is because of Smith and his abilities – that makes a material difference.
Smith has been full value for his performance this season.
Mikko has been full value for recent performance as well.
If tending falls off Ken will prioritize an upgrade. If it holds steady he might go for it if the opportunity comes along. Otherwise it will be another year and we can try out Skinner, Stalock, and Konovalov.
leadfarmer
March 21, 2021 6:54 pm
Tough test next 5 games but then a rest and clear road up ahead. 11 games vs non playoff teams and only 6 games against playoff teams
(counting Toronto Winnipeg Montreal and us as playoff teams and Calgary van and ott as non)
Yup, the stretch is tough – then again, the most recent stretch was tough and the one before that was tough as well.
Barring a catastrophe, the playoffs are all but a certainty for the Oilers and the April/May schedule for the Oilers is nice a light – should be able to be as “rested” as ay team heading in to the playoffs!
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 6:34 pm
Shootout:
Marody stopped
Thomas scores (rips one over the glove – in addition to his three goals in the game)
Esposito stopped
Lias Andersson with a nifty shot five-hole for the win.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 6:30 pm
Very entertaining OT so far. Marody just stopped on an OT breakaway.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 6:29 pm
Its interesting that the Oilers just had 5 in 7 and 6 in 9 (including back to backs with travel) but yet, the next 5 in 7 is where the rubber starts to hit the road.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 6:25 pm
Oh, I see, the schedule rubber hits the road now, starting on March 22.
I was told it was the entire month of March – I guess its just now that it starts.
Maybe DSF is upset due to the demotion to the minors, from the taxi squad, of 25 year old can’t miss top four Dman Brogan Rafferty.
Last edited 3 years ago by season not played
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 6:24 pm
Marody, McLeod and Niemelainen all on the ice in the last minute protecting the lead.
Oooop, its tied – a shot from the slot sneaks through Skinner – solid scoring chance but Skinner probably should have had it
3 goals in the last 3 minutes and to OT we go.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 6:22 pm
Reign pull within 1 with just under 2 minutes to go. With the goalie pulled they cycle it around and Byfield scores from the slot, a beauty pass from down on the goal line.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 6:21 pm
Wisconsin plays Friday 1pm (eastern I presume).
Remember, the tourney is single elimination – bracket style
Harpers Hair
March 21, 2021 6:21 pm
Well kids…here’s where the rubber hits the road as the Donner Party heads back east.
5 games in 8 days with a back to back.
If the Oilers can win at 2 of 3 in Montreal, they’ll be in good shape but a rested Toronto team with Jack Campbell back in net will be very tough.
One interesting quirk is that, if the Oilers were to sweep the Habs, Vancouver will be right back in the playoff race if they manage a point or two against Winnipeg.
Following the Winnipeg two game series, the Canucks have only 1 game in 8 days and would be very well rested heading into the April stretch run.
And, of course they will be getting a high impact addition at the trade deadline.
As much as I rewind and re-watch, I can’t for the life of me figure out which Condor d-man it was but kind of a poor luck giveaway in front of the net and Akil Thomas wires it home from the high slot.
4-2 Condors with a few minutes left.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 5:55 pm
The Stukel/Hamblin line with a great cycle shift and Gildon, of all people, attempts a wraparound and Stukel buries it on the back door.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 5:50 pm
Joe G. with an insurance goal early in the 3rd – some confusion on a Reign line change, he picks up a loose puck, enters the zone and rips one home from the top of the circles.
Marody picks off a pass to the point in the defensive zone, carries it 1 on 3 through the natural zone, takes the d-man wide and shovels one in – weak goal on the goalie but Marody with his league leading 14th.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 5:17 pm
Wisconsin officially in – per Chris Peters:
Bridgeport regional: 1. Wisconsin vs. Bemidji State; 2. UMass vs. Lake Superior State.
WCHA gets three teams in the NCAA tournament.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 5:15 pm
Pioneers didn’t make the NCAA tournament (they were a bubble team) so Savoie’s rookie season is officially over.
He tailed off but was still getting a regular shift and PP time through the year – got moved down to the 3rd line for most of the second half of the season.
I think he was getting tired/banged-up – he took a beating out there quite often.
Skinner solid – gave up the breakaway goal but looked good other than that – one high danger save for sure. 11/12.
Top line is just buzzing, almost every shift. McLeod is making skill plays with the puck in the offensive zone consistently now.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 4:22 pm
Benson takes the puck off the half boards in the natural zone, gains the offensive zone and slips a nice pass to Jaks streaking down the right side who makes a sweet move and ties the game up at 1 half way through he 1st.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 4:13 pm
Condors with a fairly dangerous PP but Byfield gets a breakaway coming out of the box and goes 5-hole on Skinner for a 1-0 lead.
OriginalPouzar
March 21, 2021 3:56 pm
Darnell Nurse leading NHL d-men in 5 on 5 points and 5 on 5 goals.
Oh ya, he’s pretty good defensively too…… not bad defending the rush either….. kind of durable…..plays a bit on the PK……… some leadership qualities I hear….
maudite
March 21, 2021 3:50 pm
Unless all bets are off signing nuge next year and you think puj or yamamoto aren’t solid bets to round out PP:
What type of forwards should the oilers be in market for?
You have one of the most dynamic and consistently decimating power play trios in the stable. Paying for PP1 level type winger seems utterly superfluous.
When Smith did the interview last night I’m thinking holy smokes has he got a lot of upper body equipment on. These goaltenders look up top like lacrosse tenders, if I was running the show I would reduce equipment size as well as the pad size. Let’s get the talented Mike Palmateers back and get rid of goalies that just cover the net because of their size and the size of the equipment.
Long standing issue. That equipment is not for protection, it is to increase size for sure. These big goaltenders with oversized equipment are a major reason for goal reduction. I also would like to see the equipment size reduced. The goalies can be as big as they want but let’s just give them properly sized equipment and clothing.
kgo
March 21, 2021 2:38 pm
How is the value of a late 1st round pick affected in a draft such as this?
Draft eligible players will have less games played, less development, and less viewings by scouts.
Does that mean there’s higher likelihood a top 10 players slips into the late 1st round? I think so….
Does it also mean a late 1st round pick has a higher likelihood of being a bust? I think so….
Higher risk and higher reward this year in my opinion….
Is this the year you trade your late 1st round pick for 4-5 later round picks?
If you have any faith that you are operating an above league average scouting team – very real possibility there might be some absolute hindsight steals with mid to late round 1sts and 2nd round tier players. Possibly even deeper if looking at players who are suddenly going through late adolescent growth spurts.
Add the expansion protected asset value to that and flat cap in play…I’m extremely hesitant to consider our 1st as a chip on table.
Unless Neal’s contract is somehow attached going other way its basically a non starter in my head. (There is foreseeable enough value if the cap space clearing is somehow part of a deal)
That would be a draft day type decision depending on what predetermined board your scouts built has left on it.
Strong possibility yes though. There is going to be some chaos and good chance those teams with higher developed analytics component are going to put near solid final nail into the old school “change is bad/run their show” type mentalities coffin.
I imagine there’ll be a lot more variability this year among the various draft lists for each team.
Would it follow that this year could see, more than any other year, teams drafting for need like, for example, in the NFL? (Yes, I’m aware that NFL drafters are older and can step in right away.)
Munny
March 21, 2021 2:29 pm
I have to join the real world for at least an hour or two, or get voted off the island.
I have the stream saved so if something amazing happens in P5 i will post it later.
Hopefully Evilas is still watching and can give you updates once OT resumes.
I wanted to explore the concept of the expansion “handshake deal” for expiring UFAs prior to expansion.
I looked back at the Las Vegas expansion, the last week of June 2017.
Free Agency started a few days later, I checked every free agent signing over $1M to see if they were left unprotected by the same club they ultimately signed with.
I only found ONE! Michael Stone, with the Calgary Flames…his $4M 1yr deal expired in 2017, he was left exposed, then resigned on the first day of free agency for $3.5M x 3.
This is ironic because 2 years later, the final year (2019-2020) of his contract was bought out by the flames, and the then resigned with them again for that very same season at league minimum….
I dont think there were any shenanigans. Stone was not exactly in high demand by anybody and would not have been protected by Flames regardless. He was a #7 or 8 D at best.
I was half joking….the point of the comment was how rare the “handshake deal” for expiring UFA’s turned out to be….lots of armchair GMs including myself recommended this route.
Munny
March 21, 2021 2:17 pm
Multiple breaks allowed by Vasby in the last minute of the 4th, but the goalkeeper stands his ground and we’re headed to double overtime
….so my job takes me out to Spruce Meadows on occasion during the summer. Ya, I am living in enemy territory but choose purposely not to live in the “little brother of Edmonton”. Also a big city thing. 🙂
One day, a number of years ago, I was in the VIP area where riders and their entourage hang out, eat and watch when not jumping themselves. I am sitting there happily people watching and who walks by? The Boss, I almost sh$t myself!
Never been to any of his shows but of course already, as an amateur musician, had the utmost respect as having been a fanboy of him forever. His daughter was one of the team jumpers for the US at that time so that is why he was there to watch.
Choose not to approach him in this VIP area however my observations that I distinctly remember where of his trademark t-shirt (black) and jeans (black), his surprisingly small physical stature and the body language of a dude that knows where he is from and knows where he is going……and he was eating pretzels I believe.
Everybody else in there did not even seem to bat an eye which was pretty cool. He did glance my way and we made eye contact and boy did I ever have that “Hungry Heart”, sorta speak. “I’m on Fire” was all I could think of at the time for being lucky to be there.
….its the little things.
….The Boss….man…thanks LT!
Munny
March 21, 2021 2:06 pm
Lavoie slips past the defense for a quick break on net from the top of the left circle, but is stopped. 8 min left in the first OT period.
maudite
March 21, 2021 1:51 pm
1. Keep the one pick you have in the top 100 draft slots this year and is a expansion draft protected asset
2. Take some of salary freed next year and target a solid goalie option for ideally 3 years
3. Do best to lock up internal UFA that you believe are best options for terms that hopefully maximize estimated long term value
4. Hang sign on booth saying “open to signing single year high dollar contract for high skilled winger who gets to play on line with the two centers who have won the last three scoring titles
5. Consider smaller bet supporting wingers on 3 year deal of lower tier
6. Leave competitive space for prospects to size opportunity internally
7. See where you are at after expansion player loss
This year – maybe find a kahun upgrade and two way 3C upgrade if deal can be made with surplus young defender depth and maybe following year draft picks below 1st rounder.
Let team show you where they can get to in playoffs this year hoping for at least 1 series win to make signings easier.
Next year they should fully intend to be competing with the likes of Vegas for division title and aiming for conference final level playoffs and sustained years of upper echelon team for remainder of mcdraivid contracts. Yes this year seems to have a cheat code level opportunity for advancing to conference but its pretty wild card following that divisional format and its hard to say how this team matches up vs teams already at upper echelon level mode from other division and conference.
Sustained champion contender isn’t something I’m overly willing to possibly prematurely ejaculate over this year.
Truly not excited at possibility of complete dead space for a year in prospect pool to get there either. While I’m loving the goalie story coming into play I’m still a bit hesitant to believe its got the fire to run 50 some games hot enough to take down all comers.
Lavoie absolutely smokes the Kristianstad winger into the far boards after he dumps the puck behind the net. Interference called but really it’s boarding is my guess.
Lavoie is #13 in white. After his team’s shot attempt, the puck goes the other way and Lavoie tracks the puck carrier. Lavoie then rubs him out on the far boards, apparently a little too rambunctiously for the zebras’ liking.
So just a general question. I think most readers enjoy the updates Muny has been providing today and the ones OP provides as well. Why would you give these posts a minus???? Really?????
I love your updates so much that I thought I should watch a Vasby game for the first time this season. I just caught the last 5 minutes and I noticed after the PK that only 2 lines were being rolled out, including Lavoie’s. I also noticed that he has the extra attention of Kristianstad and he seemed to be escorted by 2 officials to the players bench at the end of the period (I think the camera missed some extra curricular activity at the whistle in front of net, I got the impression that Lavoie had words with the dude who had skated past the goalie at the whistle).
I like this camera work, it is 10x better than AHL coverage and I appreciate the lack of commercials and the intermission showing the Zamboni work. This is better than the freaking squeegees shown during commercial breaks on NHL Center Ice.
Thanks again for sharing, I look forward to watching OT.
While the soothing sounds of the Zamboni continue, take your feed back to 2:08:00 on the feed’s time sig, or 8:40 P2 on the game clock.
That’s the shift where it all starts.
Munny
March 21, 2021 1:20 pm
Lavoie got the puck in a good spot but too many sticks in the way to get it off in a timely fashion. Easy save after he fights through the check.
Munny
March 21, 2021 1:11 pm
Balloon floater from the point finds its way through a mob and into the net and Kristianstad ties it up with 11 to play in the 3rd
Munny
March 21, 2021 1:05 pm
Vasby kills yet another penalty with some strong work from Kemp.
Munny
March 21, 2021 12:32 pm
Vasby kills the Lavoie double minor and is rewarded with their own powerplay. Kemp getting some powerplay time and looking good doing it. Lavoie was not put out, but then comes out for the first shift after and his line quickly scores to make it 2-1. Lavoie with what would be the second assist back to the point.
Thanks for updates im loving you and OPs work in this regard
Bohologo
March 21, 2021 12:25 pm
Bruce Springsteen wrote Hungry Heart for The Ramones, but his producer Jon Landau said maybe you want to stop giving your best songs to other people (viz., Fire to the Pointer Sisters, Because The Night to Patti Smith, Blinded By The Light to Manfred Mann), so Bruce said okay and had a hit.
Thanks for the details… that being said, I would have liked to hear the Ramones version!
3 chords, screamed lyrics, 2 minutes total, no noodling sax solo – coulda worked?
Thanks. Seems strange doesn’t it? Oilers can’t even draw 2 minutes on a 80 foot interference!
JimmyV1965
March 21, 2021 12:13 pm
If we buy out Neil next year, we can sign a player for $3.8 mill for four years and it basically cancels out Neil’s cap hit. The cap hit is completely a wash. Would Hall possibly sign a deal for $4.8 mill for four years and is this something we should consider? We would have to find the extra $1 mill in cap space, but it’s doable for sure.
That’s what I’m wondering. Clearly, he’s not getting $8 million. IMO if he wants any kind of term, he’s looking at $6 mill max, maybe even less. He took a gamble going to Buffalo and it backfired.
I honestly believe he wants to play for a winner. He can sign for $6 mill somewhere else, but maybe he takes less money to play on a team he knows, and is virtually guaranteed to make the playoffs.
If Hall truly wanted to sign with a winner he wouldn’t have signed with Sabres for $8 mil. He clearly took the highest $ amount offered. Maybe he takes a different path next season??
I think he clearly has his eye on something that wasn’t going to work out last offseason. Even though he took the 8 mil with Buffalo he did it with full control of where he goes next and not next season but this season still
Victoria Oil
March 21, 2021 12:06 pm
Shore didn’t score from Innisfail, let’s not exaggerate things. He scored from Sylvan Lake.
Munny
March 21, 2021 12:01 pm
Kristianstad scores two minutes intot he 2nd to make it 1-1, but like Vasby’s goal in the first, this is being reviewed/
Neither of these teams is particularly strong, which is what you would expect in a relegation battle. First period was very low event.
Whoa, with NorthEastern not making that NCAA tournament, the Oilers have signed Kesselring to an ELC starting 2021/22 and an AHL contract for the rest of this season – he’s on his way to the Bake.
Didn’t think they’d sign him quite yet – potentially signing him early to remove the walk risk as he gets closer to his senior year.
I’m good with this. Lets him get an easy break into the AHL now and see what that’s like and what the big differences are between College and the Pros.
As much as I am enjoying the Oilers turnaround this year, it is surprising how much less competitive the league is under this temporary alignment. Judging by standing points +/- to games played, under the current format, EDM/TOR/WPG/MTL are likely in – CAL/VAN/OTT out. VEG/COL/MIN/STL likely in, LA with a slim chance at +2 to STL +6. WAS/NYI PIT BOS in PHI with dimming hopes at +4 to BOS/PIT +8. TB/FLA/CAR in with CLB /CHI at +1 and DAL at 0, even NAS at -3 looking for the last spot in their Division. That’s 21 teams still with hope and 10 out of luck, at just past the halfway point.
Sorted into the usual divisions, VEG/EDM solidly in with LA at 3rd in the Pacific at +3, trying to hold off Cal +1, Van and Ari at 0.Even SJ and NAS at -3 have a chance – Only ANA would look out of it at -8. In the Central, it would be COL/MIN/WPG/STL comfortably in the lead, with CHI/CAL at +1, DAL/ARI/VAN at 0 NAS/SJ at -3 fighting for the last wildcard. That would be 14 of 15 Western Conference teams still playing meaningful games – only ANA sucking the tailpipe.
In the East, you would have TB/FLA/TOR/WAS/CAR/NYI all in a comfortable lead for top three in their divisions, BOS/PIT currently holding the two wildcard spots at +8. MTL +6 and PHI +4 would still have a reasonable chance of competing. Everyone else is +1 or worse – as bad as -13 for BUF! That means 10 of 16 Eastern Conference teams still in the hunt under the prior alignment. CLB/NYR/NJ/DET/OTT/BUF all going through the motions.
That’s 24 of 31 still in the hunt. As it is, one of the usual Eastern Divisions might see a pretty good 5th place team miss the playoffs, even though in an ordinary year they could send five by claiming both wildcards…
These playoffs are going be insane when they finally arrive…
Fantastic looking post.
I am loving this season, for the fact that we get an Original 7 Canadian only season for us to finally settle bragging rights for as long as none of us win the cup.
Oilers are using this season wisely; building from the defence out and this easily translates to the rest of the NHL watching Oiler highlights and hopefully they believe Oilers, if they get out of the division like I expect they will can offer say, a larger helping of Shock.
Winnipeg have just shown how a well balanced solid team gets to go home empty when playing the 2 best players in hockey since Mario/Jagr. They can try as hard as they might, but if they want to keep the score close from the first moment of the game they have to defer to McDavid/Draisaitl 10/10 X
At the end of the last Jets contest I was ready to sing the praises of whoever drafted Draisaitl, and who got us McDavid.
PS: The only non North division team I have seen is Vegas and they look terrific. Then so did Toronto. Who knows?
For those looking for something to watch when the Oil are resting – after reading Lowetide’s prose regarding the old Winnipeg Arena in the GDT yesterday, I re-watched the pseudo-documentary “My Winnipeg” by Canadian filmmaker Guy Maddin as part of his retrospective in the Criterion Collection. Highly recommended – especially for old souls and hockey lovers. It captures the mystique of an old hockey barn in a way that makes the new “WiFi” arenas look bad.
R.I.P. Northlands Coliseum. The draft beer just doesn’t hit the same way without you…
Maddin’s film-making is inspired.
– Given the validation that Smith has shown Tipp for being a warrior, is there any doubt that he’s not the starting goalie and gets re-upped this off-season?
– Thats a problem. I’m not sure its as big a long-term problem as had they signed Mark for size and term, and bought out Koski. Sometimes in life its the things that don’t happen that you really wanted to that make the difference
– Hope they don’t go whale-hunting again this off-season for a better goalie. But I don’t know: surely they can’t go Smith-Koski again.
– Good for Smith and his timing: not playing 14 in 27 when the team was struggling, then gifted his status: he’s a proxy for the team so far., which is way better than last year.
It’s a weird situation. Given Smith’s age you’d expect him to fall off a little bit, but here he is playing like a true #1 starter. Feel like Koski is the one who will be in trouble for a new contract sooner than later, but how long do you expect Smith to keep this up for? They both feel like stopgap options right now and I wouldn’t be surprised if Holland is on the hunt for longer term options this off-season and definitely next.
That said, wouldn’t be surprised if they re-sign Smith for another year and it this point it wouldn’t even upset me that much as long as the dollars were reasonable.
Maybe Smith, Koski, with Skinner getting a look next year? Or is that just silly talk?
Stalock is also under contract for next year, at a nominal amount.
Also, lets not discount that actual structural and technique changes in Smith’s game. I’m far from a goalie expert so am just going for the words of an actual goalie expert (Kevin Woodley) who has gone in to great detail on changes Smith made to his game. What I can say is the “lunging” at the puck, that was a huge problem last year, is all but gone from his game so far this season and that was the focus of his off-season work (from accounts).
I keep waiting for the technique to revert (I’m just not sure an off-season of work at 38 years old would sustainably change a career’s technique) but, so far, so good.
I see Smith with that long hair only it being grayer in a couple seasons winning those game 7s all the way into a cup and into retirement
1) Tip provided the same validation for Smith last year did he not? While, ultimately, Holland did bring him back, Smith was clearly not Holland’s primary option and Holland expressed that to Smith (and his representatives). There is no surety that Smith is brought back in my mind
2) Of course a team’s play has an effect on goaltending performance but I simply cannot agree that a goaltender’s performance is solely a representation of the team. I cannot agree that the team just magically started to play better when Smith returned and Smith’s performance is purely a result of that. Smith was VERY good early – one could just as easily argue that the tender playing well provided confidence to the team helping them play better. The team also clearly improves in puck retrieval and transition with Smith in the net and that is because of Smith and his abilities – that makes a material difference.
Smith has been full value for his performance this season.
Mikko has been full value for recent performance as well.
Kuddos to Tip and his tender deployment.
If tending falls off Ken will prioritize an upgrade. If it holds steady he might go for it if the opportunity comes along. Otherwise it will be another year and we can try out Skinner, Stalock, and Konovalov.
Tough test next 5 games but then a rest and clear road up ahead. 11 games vs non playoff teams and only 6 games against playoff teams
(counting Toronto Winnipeg Montreal and us as playoff teams and Calgary van and ott as non)
Yup, the stretch is tough – then again, the most recent stretch was tough and the one before that was tough as well.
Barring a catastrophe, the playoffs are all but a certainty for the Oilers and the April/May schedule for the Oilers is nice a light – should be able to be as “rested” as ay team heading in to the playoffs!
Shootout:
Marody stopped
Thomas scores (rips one over the glove – in addition to his three goals in the game)
Esposito stopped
Lias Andersson with a nifty shot five-hole for the win.
Very entertaining OT so far. Marody just stopped on an OT breakaway.
Its interesting that the Oilers just had 5 in 7 and 6 in 9 (including back to backs with travel) but yet, the next 5 in 7 is where the rubber starts to hit the road.
Oh, I see, the schedule rubber hits the road now, starting on March 22.
I was told it was the entire month of March – I guess its just now that it starts.
It’s an easy mistake to make, as HH has been quieter lately for some reason.
He sure has, haha
Maybe DSF is upset due to the demotion to the minors, from the taxi squad, of 25 year old can’t miss top four Dman Brogan Rafferty.
Marody, McLeod and Niemelainen all on the ice in the last minute protecting the lead.
Oooop, its tied – a shot from the slot sneaks through Skinner – solid scoring chance but Skinner probably should have had it
3 goals in the last 3 minutes and to OT we go.
Reign pull within 1 with just under 2 minutes to go. With the goalie pulled they cycle it around and Byfield scores from the slot, a beauty pass from down on the goal line.
Wisconsin plays Friday 1pm (eastern I presume).
Remember, the tourney is single elimination – bracket style
Well kids…here’s where the rubber hits the road as the Donner Party heads back east.
5 games in 8 days with a back to back.
If the Oilers can win at 2 of 3 in Montreal, they’ll be in good shape but a rested Toronto team with Jack Campbell back in net will be very tough.
One interesting quirk is that, if the Oilers were to sweep the Habs, Vancouver will be right back in the playoff race if they manage a point or two against Winnipeg.
Following the Winnipeg two game series, the Canucks have only 1 game in 8 days and would be very well rested heading into the April stretch run.
And, of course they will be getting a high impact addition at the trade deadline.
A huge task but not impossible.
keep the dream alive friend!
That rubber road must be made out of your goalposts cause it moves so quickly
Who is this high impact addition?
I think Rogan Bafferty is coming up from the taxi squad.
Quite frankly no one on this site really gives a shit about the Dys! It was very pleasant not having you post for awhile.
Pathetic desperation on full display yet again.
Deja vu…
https://lowetide.ca/2021/02/24/for-what-its-worth-3/#comment-984267
Yeah this act is getting stale – whither DSF?
That was sly and sweet
the high impact will be lost by Hughes skyrocketing poor defensive play. His plus / minus maybe a NHL record by seasons end
I must admit.. While full of drivel, this is a very well crafted post.
Oh wow your digging lol hopes and dreams. On the bright side I do think its gonna be OTT and CLG that miss where the other teams end up who knows.
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/539901/the-legion-of-regrettable-supervillains-by-jon-morris/
As much as I rewind and re-watch, I can’t for the life of me figure out which Condor d-man it was but kind of a poor luck giveaway in front of the net and Akil Thomas wires it home from the high slot.
4-2 Condors with a few minutes left.
The Stukel/Hamblin line with a great cycle shift and Gildon, of all people, attempts a wraparound and Stukel buries it on the back door.
Joe G. with an insurance goal early in the 3rd – some confusion on a Reign line change, he picks up a loose puck, enters the zone and rips one home from the top of the circles.
Another weak goal on the tender.
The Marody go-ahead goal:
https://twitter.com/Condors/status/1373779827015086082
Marody picks off a pass to the point in the defensive zone, carries it 1 on 3 through the natural zone, takes the d-man wide and shovels one in – weak goal on the goalie but Marody with his league leading 14th.
Wisconsin officially in – per Chris Peters:
Bridgeport regional: 1. Wisconsin vs. Bemidji State; 2. UMass vs. Lake Superior State.
WCHA gets three teams in the NCAA tournament.
Pioneers didn’t make the NCAA tournament (they were a bubble team) so Savoie’s rookie season is officially over.
How much did he tail off after that hot start OP?
He tailed off but was still getting a regular shift and PP time through the year – got moved down to the 3rd line for most of the second half of the season.
I think he was getting tired/banged-up – he took a beating out there quite often.
Thanks. Looking forward to next season to see how he does. I’m wondering if his purported lack of fitness was a contributor?
How about Quinnipiac?
Loveland regional: 1. Minnesota vs. 4. Omaha; 2. Minnesota State vs. 3. Quinnipiac.
NCAA tournament selection show is in 15 minutes – its on ESPN
Hopefully Denver squeaks in, but if not we should have Holloway and Brind’Amour to follow in the tournament.
Didn’t make it.
Solid first period.
Skinner solid – gave up the breakaway goal but looked good other than that – one high danger save for sure. 11/12.
Top line is just buzzing, almost every shift. McLeod is making skill plays with the puck in the offensive zone consistently now.
Benson takes the puck off the half boards in the natural zone, gains the offensive zone and slips a nice pass to Jaks streaking down the right side who makes a sweet move and ties the game up at 1 half way through he 1st.
Condors with a fairly dangerous PP but Byfield gets a breakaway coming out of the box and goes 5-hole on Skinner for a 1-0 lead.
Darnell Nurse leading NHL d-men in 5 on 5 points and 5 on 5 goals.
Oh ya, he’s pretty good defensively too…… not bad defending the rush either….. kind of durable…..plays a bit on the PK……… some leadership qualities I hear….
Unless all bets are off signing nuge next year and you think puj or yamamoto aren’t solid bets to round out PP:
What type of forwards should the oilers be in market for?
You have one of the most dynamic and consistently decimating power play trios in the stable. Paying for PP1 level type winger seems utterly superfluous.
Filip Forsberg would be nice
Looking forward to former Oiler Anton Forsberg playing his first games of the season and leading the Sens to victories over the next two games……
Road warrior deserves a semi permanent bed and some games for sure.
How about three? Sens play the Leaves after the two vs. the Flames. Mayhaps the Sens can do the Oilers yet another solid.
I’ll take that too!
Forsberg recalled from his conditioning stint in Belleville – I presume he’s starting tomorrow but that’s a pure guess.
Skinner gets the start after only playing 40 minutes last night.
Hamblin, who wasn’t feeling well yesterday, back in – for Safin.
Game 5 for Vasby on March 23 – presumably Kemp and Lavoie are recalled shortly thereafter.
who scored in OT?
Lorraine (had the 1st as well).
Thanks
When Smith did the interview last night I’m thinking holy smokes has he got a lot of upper body equipment on. These goaltenders look up top like lacrosse tenders, if I was running the show I would reduce equipment size as well as the pad size. Let’s get the talented Mike Palmateers back and get rid of goalies that just cover the net because of their size and the size of the equipment.
Long standing issue. That equipment is not for protection, it is to increase size for sure. These big goaltenders with oversized equipment are a major reason for goal reduction. I also would like to see the equipment size reduced. The goalies can be as big as they want but let’s just give them properly sized equipment and clothing.
How is the value of a late 1st round pick affected in a draft such as this?
Draft eligible players will have less games played, less development, and less viewings by scouts.
Does that mean there’s higher likelihood a top 10 players slips into the late 1st round? I think so….
Does it also mean a late 1st round pick has a higher likelihood of being a bust? I think so….
Higher risk and higher reward this year in my opinion….
Is this the year you trade your late 1st round pick for 4-5 later round picks?
Just my dumb opinion:
If you have any faith that you are operating an above league average scouting team – very real possibility there might be some absolute hindsight steals with mid to late round 1sts and 2nd round tier players. Possibly even deeper if looking at players who are suddenly going through late adolescent growth spurts.
Add the expansion protected asset value to that and flat cap in play…I’m extremely hesitant to consider our 1st as a chip on table.
Unless Neal’s contract is somehow attached going other way its basically a non starter in my head. (There is foreseeable enough value if the cap space clearing is somehow part of a deal)
Would you trade the 1st for two 2nds and a 4th?
That would be a draft day type decision depending on what predetermined board your scouts built has left on it.
Strong possibility yes though. There is going to be some chaos and good chance those teams with higher developed analytics component are going to put near solid final nail into the old school “change is bad/run their show” type mentalities coffin.
I imagine there’ll be a lot more variability this year among the various draft lists for each team.
Would it follow that this year could see, more than any other year, teams drafting for need like, for example, in the NFL? (Yes, I’m aware that NFL drafters are older and can step in right away.)
I have to join the real world for at least an hour or two, or get voted off the island.
I have the stream saved so if something amazing happens in P5 i will post it later.
Hopefully Evilas is still watching and can give you updates once OT resumes.
Really appreciate it Munny….and say hi to the real world
Sorry folks I got pulled away.
Threadjack alert! – Expansion draft
I wanted to explore the concept of the expansion “handshake deal” for expiring UFAs prior to expansion.
I looked back at the Las Vegas expansion, the last week of June 2017.
Free Agency started a few days later, I checked every free agent signing over $1M to see if they were left unprotected by the same club they ultimately signed with.
I only found ONE! Michael Stone, with the Calgary Flames…his $4M 1yr deal expired in 2017, he was left exposed, then resigned on the first day of free agency for $3.5M x 3.
This is ironic because 2 years later, the final year (2019-2020) of his contract was bought out by the flames, and the then resigned with them again for that very same season at league minimum….
I call shenanigans….twice…with the same player!
I dont think there were any shenanigans. Stone was not exactly in high demand by anybody and would not have been protected by Flames regardless. He was a #7 or 8 D at best.
I was half joking….the point of the comment was how rare the “handshake deal” for expiring UFA’s turned out to be….lots of armchair GMs including myself recommended this route.
Multiple breaks allowed by Vasby in the last minute of the 4th, but the goalkeeper stands his ground and we’re headed to double overtime
Hungry Hart.
….so my job takes me out to Spruce Meadows on occasion during the summer. Ya, I am living in enemy territory but choose purposely not to live in the “little brother of Edmonton”. Also a big city thing. 🙂
One day, a number of years ago, I was in the VIP area where riders and their entourage hang out, eat and watch when not jumping themselves. I am sitting there happily people watching and who walks by? The Boss, I almost sh$t myself!
Never been to any of his shows but of course already, as an amateur musician, had the utmost respect as having been a fanboy of him forever. His daughter was one of the team jumpers for the US at that time so that is why he was there to watch.
Choose not to approach him in this VIP area however my observations that I distinctly remember where of his trademark t-shirt (black) and jeans (black), his surprisingly small physical stature and the body language of a dude that knows where he is from and knows where he is going……and he was eating pretzels I believe.
Everybody else in there did not even seem to bat an eye which was pretty cool. He did glance my way and we made eye contact and boy did I ever have that “Hungry Heart”, sorta speak. “I’m on Fire” was all I could think of at the time for being lucky to be there.
….its the little things.
….The Boss….man…thanks LT!
Lavoie slips past the defense for a quick break on net from the top of the left circle, but is stopped. 8 min left in the first OT period.
1. Keep the one pick you have in the top 100 draft slots this year and is a expansion draft protected asset
2. Take some of salary freed next year and target a solid goalie option for ideally 3 years
3. Do best to lock up internal UFA that you believe are best options for terms that hopefully maximize estimated long term value
4. Hang sign on booth saying “open to signing single year high dollar contract for high skilled winger who gets to play on line with the two centers who have won the last three scoring titles
5. Consider smaller bet supporting wingers on 3 year deal of lower tier
6. Leave competitive space for prospects to size opportunity internally
7. See where you are at after expansion player loss
This year – maybe find a kahun upgrade and two way 3C upgrade if deal can be made with surplus young defender depth and maybe following year draft picks below 1st rounder.
Let team show you where they can get to in playoffs this year hoping for at least 1 series win to make signings easier.
Next year they should fully intend to be competing with the likes of Vegas for division title and aiming for conference final level playoffs and sustained years of upper echelon team for remainder of mcdraivid contracts. Yes this year seems to have a cheat code level opportunity for advancing to conference but its pretty wild card following that divisional format and its hard to say how this team matches up vs teams already at upper echelon level mode from other division and conference.
Sustained champion contender isn’t something I’m overly willing to possibly prematurely ejaculate over this year.
Truly not excited at possibility of complete dead space for a year in prospect pool to get there either. While I’m loving the goalie story coming into play I’m still a bit hesitant to believe its got the fire to run 50 some games hot enough to take down all comers.
Damn is it ever chippy.
This is what happens when you take fighting out of the game the pricks take over.
Lavoie shot and subsequent 4 min interference penalty
I must be blind but I have no idea what’s being called
Lavoie absolutely smokes the Kristianstad winger into the far boards after he dumps the puck behind the net. Interference called but really it’s boarding is my guess.
i get the interference or boarding penalty but I don’t see what the double minor is from. Maybe reputation from his suspension?
Lavoie is #13 in white. After his team’s shot attempt, the puck goes the other way and Lavoie tracks the puck carrier. Lavoie then rubs him out on the far boards, apparently a little too rambunctiously for the zebras’ liking.
this is longer but actually video with sound and a replay
https://twitter.com/thatspuckedup/status/1373729489578913792
4 minutes for finishing your check
Sure looks like it
So just a general question. I think most readers enjoy the updates Muny has been providing today and the ones OP provides as well. Why would you give these posts a minus???? Really?????
I haven’t seen that but it’s a very good question. There is nothing negative and I also really appreciate these updates.
Absolutely no negs here, game posts are much appreciated.
Lavoie double-shifted through the last 3 minutes in an effort to avoid OT.
No scores, so to OT they will go. Kemp has had a good game to my eye, and gets plenty of TOI from the coach. Has his trust.
I love your updates so much that I thought I should watch a Vasby game for the first time this season. I just caught the last 5 minutes and I noticed after the PK that only 2 lines were being rolled out, including Lavoie’s. I also noticed that he has the extra attention of Kristianstad and he seemed to be escorted by 2 officials to the players bench at the end of the period (I think the camera missed some extra curricular activity at the whistle in front of net, I got the impression that Lavoie had words with the dude who had skated past the goalie at the whistle).
I like this camera work, it is 10x better than AHL coverage and I appreciate the lack of commercials and the intermission showing the Zamboni work. This is better than the freaking squeegees shown during commercial breaks on NHL Center Ice.
Thanks again for sharing, I look forward to watching OT.
While the soothing sounds of the Zamboni continue, take your feed back to 2:08:00 on the feed’s time sig, or 8:40 P2 on the game clock.
That’s the shift where it all starts.
Lavoie got the puck in a good spot but too many sticks in the way to get it off in a timely fashion. Easy save after he fights through the check.
Balloon floater from the point finds its way through a mob and into the net and Kristianstad ties it up with 11 to play in the 3rd
Vasby kills yet another penalty with some strong work from Kemp.
Vasby kills the Lavoie double minor and is rewarded with their own powerplay. Kemp getting some powerplay time and looking good doing it. Lavoie was not put out, but then comes out for the first shift after and his line quickly scores to make it 2-1. Lavoie with what would be the second assist back to the point.
Thanks for updates im loving you and OPs work in this regard
Bruce Springsteen wrote Hungry Heart for The Ramones, but his producer Jon Landau said maybe you want to stop giving your best songs to other people (viz., Fire to the Pointer Sisters, Because The Night to Patti Smith, Blinded By The Light to Manfred Mann), so Bruce said okay and had a hit.
Thanks for the details… that being said, I would have liked to hear the Ramones version!
3 chords, screamed lyrics, 2 minutes total, no noodling sax solo – coulda worked?
You had me until Blinded By the Light, revved up like a doucher
Lavoie takes a four minute interference penalty after a long discussion by the officials
How the H do you get a 4 minute interference penalty?
Maybe he gave him a reach around at the same time.
Wouldn’t that be holding?
By committee apparently.
It’s at the far side of the ice with a low camera angle, but if I can I will post it later.
Thanks. Seems strange doesn’t it? Oilers can’t even draw 2 minutes on a 80 foot interference!
If we buy out Neil next year, we can sign a player for $3.8 mill for four years and it basically cancels out Neil’s cap hit. The cap hit is completely a wash. Would Hall possibly sign a deal for $4.8 mill for four years and is this something we should consider? We would have to find the extra $1 mill in cap space, but it’s doable for sure.
Why would Hall sign that?
That’s what I’m wondering. Clearly, he’s not getting $8 million. IMO if he wants any kind of term, he’s looking at $6 mill max, maybe even less. He took a gamble going to Buffalo and it backfired.
I honestly believe he wants to play for a winner. He can sign for $6 mill somewhere else, but maybe he takes less money to play on a team he knows, and is virtually guaranteed to make the playoffs.
If Hall truly wanted to sign with a winner he wouldn’t have signed with Sabres for $8 mil. He clearly took the highest $ amount offered. Maybe he takes a different path next season??
I think he clearly has his eye on something that wasn’t going to work out last offseason. Even though he took the 8 mil with Buffalo he did it with full control of where he goes next and not next season but this season still
Shore didn’t score from Innisfail, let’s not exaggerate things. He scored from Sylvan Lake.
Kristianstad scores two minutes intot he 2nd to make it 1-1, but like Vasby’s goal in the first, this is being reviewed/
Neither of these teams is particularly strong, which is what you would expect in a relegation battle. First period was very low event.
the goal stands