One never knows exactly what the experience will be like until actually witnessing the event. Now that it’s done, 100 points in 53 games, it reminds me of Gretzky’s 50 goals in 39 games those many years ago. That’s the thing about the all-time greats: Predicting how great they are usually falls short of even the most creative and resourceful.
The last time I had this feeling, the story of McDavid’s arduous summer of rehab was followed up with 97 points in 64 games. This year, no rehab but 100 points in 53 games for the best player on the planet. The closest non-teammate (Brad Marchand, Mitch Marner) sits 33 points away. That my friends is true dominance.
Oilers fans have enjoyed Gretzky and now McDavid. It seems likely we shall never pass this way again.
THE ATHLETIC!
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 DNB and Jonathan Willis: ‘It’s kind of Gretzky-like’: Oilers star Connor McDavid’s 100-point season puts him in rarified air
- Lowetide: What will Tyler Benson’s role be for the 2021-22 Oilers?
- Jonathan Willis: Oilers’ Mike Smith is putting himself in the all-time old-guy goalie conversation with a stunning season at 38
- Lowetide: Oilers’ Adam Larsson playing his best hockey with playoffs on horizon
- Lowetide: What should the Oilers do to get Kailer Yamamoto back on track?
- DNB: How Jesse Puljujarvi 2.0 is making an impact
- DNB: What are the Oilers’ pressing questions ahead of the Seattle Kraken expansion draft?
- Lowetide: Oilers complete April report card
- DNB: A 2nd Hart Trophy is firmly in Connor McDavid’s grasp
- Jonathan Willis: Which Oilers need to step up down the stretch?
- DNB: Get ready for Ryan McLeod
- Lowetide: A look at the best value contracts on the 2021 Oilers
- Lowetide: An early look at ideal Oilers’ free-agent targets for the offseason
- DNB: Re-sign Ryan Nugent-Hopkins? Free-agency targets? Oilers mailbag
- Jonathan Willis: Should the Oilers re-sign pending unrestricted free agent Tyson Barrie?
- Lowetide: Are the 2020-21 Oilers better than the 2016-17 team?
- Lowetide: Oilers’ top 20 prospects, trade deadline edition
OILERS AFTER 53 GAMES
- Oilers in 2015-16: 21-27-5, 47 points; goal differential -23
- Oilers in 2016-17: 28-17-8, 64 points; goal differential +11
- Oilers in 2017-18: 23-26-4, 50 points; goal differential -25
- Oilers in 2018-19: 23-25-5, 51 points; goal differential -19
- Oilers in 2019-20: 28-10-6, 62 points; goal differential +4
- Oilers in 2020-21: 33-18-2, 68 points; goal differential +21
Edmonton began the season 3-6-0, and is 30-12-2 since then. That’s a fantastic record, the kind of streak that teams who go deep into the playoffs compile during the regular season. The Oilers are close to a lock to play the Winnipeg Jets, and the excitement can begin to build now.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN MAY
- At home to: Calgary (Expected: 1-0-0) (Actual 1-0-0)
- On the road to: Vancouver, Vancouver (Expected: 1-1-0) (Actual 2-0-0)
- At home to: Vancouver, Vancouver (Expected 1-0-1) (Actual 1-1-0)
- On the road to: Montreal, Montreal (Expected 0-1-1) (Actual 0-0-0)
- At home to: Vancouver (Expected 1-0-0) (Actual 0-0-0)
- Expected May record: 4-2-2, 10 points in 8 games
- Actual May record: 4-1-0, 8 points in 5 games
The two Montreal games remain important at this time, and that’s good. Edmonton needs to keep up the intensity as much as possible, and while I’m at it full value to the Vancouver Canucks for being a worthy foe. I don’t think the Winnipeg Jets will be as easy a mark as they have appeared to be recently, but that’s the matchup you should want. Our friends in Muddy Water, Manitoba will be cheering for a team that is less than it should be due to injury and a curious trade deadline.
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!
Mom. What a great word. You only get one Mom because they’re so precious even the richest can’t afford two. My Mom passed several years ago and it’s taken a long time to get through this day without being emotional. The last couple of years, it’s been more smiles than tears and good memories of a kind woman with great humour and a tendency to do things that backfired in hilarious ways.
How do you repay your Mom? Can’t. What you can do is be a person your Mom can be proud of, whether she’s in heaven or on earth. Sometimes your Mom isn’t your biological Mom, but you always know who your Mom is, that’s obvious.
Mother’s Day for me is making sure my kid’s Mom is treated like royalty, a tough thing to do for a woman who wakes up and does things all day. I’m barbecuing today, we’re going to the hardware store to buy paint and the only other major item is making sure my kids remember to wish her a Happy Mother’s Day.
I always found it interesting that the one person who had enough intel on you to bury your future with any new acquaintance is the one person you can trust completely.
Call your Mom today. No excuses. I can’t and it breaks my heart. So you do it for me and all the guys who can’t dial heaven. Moms.
A FEW THOUGHTS ON MCDAVID
Connor McDavid is going to reach insane heights in the days to come and this season signals his greatness has reached a higher level. As observers of this team, we’ve discovered more this year. It seems like a tight-knit group, there’s a belief system in this group that hasn’t been here in many years, maybe since 2006.
Last night on HNIC, Elliotte Friedman spoke about negotiations that are going well in regard to a four-year extension the Oilers and Adam Larsson are pursuing. That’s a good thing from my point of view, your mileage may vary, but veterans with options choosing to stay is a positive sign.
The fuel for this positive energy is success. Edmonton has been in two postseasons since the arrival of Ken Holland and Dave Tippett. More fuel is needed and more pressure is building. I have a very good feeling about this team’s chances in the first round of the playoffs and the Oilers should be competitive against the TML or Habs.
One more thing: The decade of darkness is gone. Done. Banished to history finally by the sweet release of morning and a brand new day.
Congratulations! You made it! Nadir’s Raiders are a distant bell, a shared and tragic memory. It’s okay to smile, to ponder a bright future and to revel in accomplishments like last night. More than okay, it’s necessary. It’s a brand new day.
Tomorrow’s game should be a good challenge for the Oilers. Montreal must be getting desperate after 3 losses and Calgary’s win tonight plus the Oilers may have a little emotional let down after McD getting his 100. This will be a good opportunity to tighten everything up and play a good solid team game.
Death March Playoff 2021 starts soon! Very Soon!
Hunter1909’s Playoff Death March is here:
Simply follow the link:
https://oilersdeathmarch.com/marches/playoffs-2021/
1 – log in/register
2- predict number of Oilers playoff wins(called points on the home page)
3 – predict the tie breaker(explained on the homepage)
Its easy!
We hate everyone! No one is welcome to play!
Really not sure why the league doesn’t reschedule MTL/EDM as a B2B on Mon/Tues, then have Vancouver play EDM on the 13th instead of CGY. That would get the Oilers done 2 days earlier. You could also easily move the WPG/TOR game up to the 13th as well and start the playoffs Sunday or Monday.
For one thing Death March can use more time to let people register/play the 2021 Playoff Death March.
(sorry for the text wall)
To put the Mcdavid 100 pts in another perspective, best seasons for each player in Adjusted Points via Hockey-Reference (note that if Mcdavid keeps up his pace he may approach Gretzky’s best season). If McDavid gets 9 pts in his final 3 games, he will pass Gretzky’s best Adjusted Points total with 171 Adjusted Pts! (If my calculations are correct), and with 8 pts he’ll tie him at 170. And if Draisaitl continues to get points for the final 3 games he may pass Howe and take sole possession of #6. 84 players share the top 29 seasons. How great a season Draisaitl is having is getting lost in the shuffle a bit. Ovechkin/Crosby debate doesn’t get solved by this one, tied. I love these kinds of lists. Look at Sakic and Yzerman. Two players so similar in so many ways, tied. Lindros and Forsberg traded for each other (with a lot more), nearly tied. Two of the best scorers of the 80s Kurri and Bossy, tied. Kurri, Coffey, and Messier, tied. Marner and Matthews way down at 22 & 25 respectively. But, it’s also not everything as some of the greatest of all time (as I see the game) are closer to the bottom than they should be in Bobby Clarke and Mark Messier.
Rank-Player-Adj Pts-Season,
1)Wayne Gretzky*-170-1985-86,
2)Connor McDavid-166-2020-21,
3)Mario Lemieux*-165-1988-89,
4)Jaromir Jagr-145-1998-99,
5)Phil Esposito*-141-1970-71,
6)Gordie Howe*-131-1952-53,
6)Leon Draisaitl-131-2020-21,
7)Bobby Orr*-129-1970-71,
8)Joe Sakic*-128-2000-01,
8)Steve Yzerman*-128-1988-89,
8)Nikita Kucherov-128-2018-19,
9)Bernie Nicholls-124-1988-89,
10)Sidney Crosby-122-2006-07,
10)Alex Ovechkin-122-2007-08,
10)Evgeni Malkin-122-2011-12,
10)Guy Lafleur*-122-1976-77,
10)Teemu Selanne*-122-1998-99,
11)Joe Thornton-121-2005-06,
11)Eric Lindros*-121-1994-95,
12)Henrik Sedin-119-2009-10,
12)Jean Beliveau*-119-1955-56,
12)Pat LaFontaine*-119-1992-93,
12)Patrick Kane-119-2015-16,
13)Peter Forsberg*-118-2002-03,
13)Brett Hull*-118-1990-91,
14)Markus Naslund-117-2002-03,
15)Marcel Dionne*-116-1979-80,
16)Adam Oates*-115-1992-93,
16)Ron Francis*-115-1995-96,
16)Paul Kariya*-115-1998-99,
17)Martin St. Louis*-114-2012-13,
18)Daniel Sedin-113-2010-11,
18)Bryan Trottier*-113-1978-79,
18)Alex Zhamnov-113-1994-95,
19)Artemi Panarin-112-2019-20,
19)David Pastrnak-112-2019-20,
20)Vincent Lecavalier-111-2006-07,
20)Dickie Moore*-111-1958-59,
21)Milan Hejduk-110-2002-03,
21)Denis Savard*-110-1987-88,
21)Nathan MacKinnon-110-2019-20,
22)Steven Stamkos-109-2011-12,
22)Jean Ratelle*-109-1971-72,
22)Kevin Stevens-109-1991-92,
22)Sergei Fedorov*-109-1993-94,
22)Brad Marchand-109-2020-21,
22)Mitch Marner-109-2020-21,
23)Todd Bertuzzi-108-2002-03,
23)Mike Bossy*-108-1981-82,
23)Jari Kurri*-108-1984-85,
23)Paul Coffey*-108-1985-86,
23)Mark Messier*-108-1989-90,
23)Alexei Yashin-108-1998-99,
24)Dany Heatley-107-2006-07,
24)Nicklas Backstrom-107-2009-10,
24)Ted Lindsay*-107-1956-57,
25)Corey Perry-106-2010-11,
25)Stan Mikita*-106-1966-67,
25)John Bucyk*-106-1970-71,
25)Vic Hadfield-106-1971-72,
25)Pierre Turgeon-106-1992-93,
25)Auston Matthews-106-2020-21
Adjusted points stink of rewriting history to suit the current political narrative.
Sure, get angry at adjusted points. Full yer boots. It’s a good start to provide context of accomplishments. In 1985-86 (Gretzky’s best season), 50 out of 378 regular roster spots scored at a point per game or better. That’s about one out of every 8 players. In 2003-04, 12 out of 540 regular roster spots were able to score at a point or game or better. That’s 1 out of every 45 players. Adjusted points statistically compares those two seasons, to see how great an accomplishment that was at the time. Scoring has been much harder in certain eras. Doing so in those more difficult eras should be recognized somehow. Adjusted Points is the best system to do that.
Also, who has ever rewritten history to suit the current political narrative? It seems to me that some places are finally getting history correct. The “rewriters” have been those in control of the narrative for the last 200 years in North America. What a strange thing to bring up. But again, fill yer boys, rage on.
I like these lists too. Thanks.
But you mean tied for 43rd and 58th, right?
Still impressive, with about 65% of McDavid’s offense.
(sorry for the text wall)
To put the Mcdavid 100 pts in another perspective, best seasons for each player in Adjusted Points via Hockey-Reference (note that if Mcdavid keeps up his pace he may approach Gretzky’s best season). And if Draisaitl continues to get points for the final 3 games he may pass Howe and take sole possession of #6. 84 players share the top 29 seasons. How great a season Draisaitl is having is getting lost in the shuffle a bit. Ovechkin/Crosby debate doesn’t get solved by this one, tied. I love these kinds of lists. Look at Sakic and Yzerman. Two players so similar in so many ways, tied. Lindros and Forsberg traded for each other (with a lot more), nearly tied. Two of the best scorers of the 80s Kurri and Bossy, tied. Kurri, Coffey, and Messier, tied. Marner and Matthews way down at 22 & 25 respectively. But, it’s also not everything as some of the greatest of all time (as I see the game) are closer to the bottom than they should be in Bobby Clarke and Mark Messier.
Rank-Player-Adj Pts-Season,
1)Wayne Gretzky*-170-1985-86,
2)Connor McDavid-166-2020-21,
3)Mario Lemieux*-165-1988-89,
4)Jaromir Jagr-145-1998-99,
5)Phil Esposito*-141-1970-71,
6)Gordie Howe*-131-1952-53,
6)Leon Draisaitl-131-2020-21,
7)Bobby Orr*-129-1970-71,
8)Joe Sakic*-128-2000-01,
8)Steve Yzerman*-128-1988-89,
8)Nikita Kucherov-128-2018-19,
9)Bernie Nicholls-124-1988-89,
10)Sidney Crosby-122-2006-07,
10)Alex Ovechkin-122-2007-08,
10)Evgeni Malkin-122-2011-12,
10)Guy Lafleur*-122-1976-77,
10)Teemu Selanne*-122-1998-99,
11)Joe Thornton-121-2005-06,
11)Eric Lindros*-121-1994-95,
12)Henrik Sedin-119-2009-10,
12)Jean Beliveau*-119-1955-56,
12)Pat LaFontaine*-119-1992-93,
12)Patrick Kane-119-2015-16,
13)Peter Forsberg*-118-2002-03,
13)Brett Hull*-118-1990-91,
14)Markus Naslund-117-2002-03,
15)Marcel Dionne*-116-1979-80,
16)Adam Oates*-115-1992-93,
16)Ron Francis*-115-1995-96,
16)Paul Kariya*-115-1998-99,
17)Martin St. Louis*-114-2012-13,
18)Daniel Sedin-113-2010-11,
18)Bryan Trottier*-113-1978-79,
18)Alex Zhamnov-113-1994-95,
19)Artemi Panarin-112-2019-20,
19)David Pastrnak-112-2019-20,
20)Vincent Lecavalier-111-2006-07,
20)Dickie Moore*-111-1958-59,
21)Milan Hejduk-110-2002-03,
21)Denis Savard*-110-1987-88,
21)Nathan MacKinnon-110-2019-20,
22)Steven Stamkos-109-2011-12,
22)Jean Ratelle*-109-1971-72,
22)Kevin Stevens-109-1991-92,
22)Sergei Fedorov*-109-1993-94,
22)Brad Marchand-109-2020-21,
22)Mitch Marner-109-2020-21,
23)Todd Bertuzzi-108-2002-03,
23)Mike Bossy*-108-1981-82,
23)Jari Kurri*-108-1984-85,
23)Paul Coffey*-108-1985-86,
23)Mark Messier*-108-1989-90,
23)Alexei Yashin-108-1998-99,
24)Dany Heatley-107-2006-07,
24)Nicklas Backstrom-107-2009-10,
24)Ted Lindsay*-107-1956-57,
25)Corey Perry-106-2010-11,
25)Stan Mikita*-106-1966-67,
25)John Bucyk*-106-1970-71,
25)Vic Hadfield-106-1971-72,
25)Pierre Turgeon-106-1992-93,
25)Auston Matthews-106-2020-21,
26)Pavel Datsyuk-105-2007-08,
26)Darryl Sittler*-105-1977-78,
26)Theoren Fleury-105-1998-99,
27)Patrik Elias-104-2000-01,
27)Pavol Demitra-104-2002-03,
27)Bobby Clarke*-104-1975-76,
27)Pavel Bure*-104-1997-98,
27)Claude Giroux-104-2017-18,
28)Alex Kovalev-103-2000-01,
28)Glen Murray-103-2002-03,
28)Bobby Hull*-103-1965-66,
28)Dale Hawerchuk*-103-1984-85,
28)Alexander Mogilny-103-1992-93,
29)Jason Allison-102-2000-01,
29)Martin Straka-102-2000-01,
29)Marian Hossa*-102-2006-07,
29)Bernie Geoffrion*-102-1954-55,
29)Andy Bathgate*-102-1958-59,
29)Pete Mahovlich-102-1974-75,
29)Peter Stastny*-102-1981-82,
29)Doug Gilmour*-102-1992-93,
29)John LeClair-102-1998-99,
delete
Haha, well, that made it worse. I thought I’d placate you somewhat but I wanted to keep at least some or most of it. But I couldn’t edit the original anymore. But before deleting it, I wanted to make sure I could repost it. So I copy/pasted it into a new post and took out the double spacing and deleted the bottom 10 or so to make it a bit shorter for you. Well, once I reposted it, I came to try and delete the original, and gosh darn it, there is no option to delete it. And no option to edit it. Now you have to scroll through, NOT ONE, BUT TWO long posts from me. AND this long-winded explanation.¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I’m sure you’ll survive, though.
I was just deleted what I had posted, because I had misread your post and made a mistake. I didn’t mean delete your post. I deleted my post.
I should have chosen a different word I guess.
.
Will be interesting to see the lineup tomorrow.
I anticipate Mikko is starting (and next Sat) unless the play is for Smith to start Mon/Sat.
I hope they keep the same top 6 as last night – that’s my personal starting top 6 for. the playoffs.
Haas is to be ready before the playoffs and they’ll want to get him in some games – I anticipate that will be at wing.
To me Neal isn’t an every day guy but has value to be spot started and I think one of Neal/Chiasson needs to be in the lineup and Ennis should mix in. I don’t think the coach healthy scratches Chiasson though (unless he continues to take minor penalties0
Kass would factor in but I don’t think he’ll be ready for opening night.
Assuming a healthy left side, I wonder who gets the 3LD spot at between Jones, Russell and Lagesson.
Because we will likely draw Winnipeg, I would go with Jones.
At least to start. Does he make gaffes? Yes.
But elite skating and some decent head man passes are a dream for the other 2.
Tippett will likely go with Russell.
Playoffs are war and Russell is battle tested.
Would love to see Caleb get a taste of the intensity and physicality of the type of hockey he needs to work on.
People would be wise not to give up on Caleb too early…..he has only played 91 NHL games.
D take time…..as we saw with a Nurse.
Caleb has to learn to play contact hockey! He does not make the Oiler end of the ice inhospitable. He would be a good ladies hockey D. He is average size with average skills and above average skating. To stay in the league and have a career he is going to have to be more physical. Until he learns to light somebody once in awhile the opponents will light him up! It’s a mans game he needs to man up!
You really don’t like Jones eh?
I don’t entirely disagree with you (and I do agree they shouldn’t go 4-4-1 to protect him).
But yeah, he’s a decent young D. He doesn’t have standout physical tools, so it might take him a while to fully translate his game. And maybe it never quite clicks like it did in the AHL.
In any case, lotta quality defensemen in the league who rarely lit an opponent up. Has Bouchard lit anyone up yet?
Agree on the top 6.
Was just looking at the forwards over the last 8 games (since McLeod joined) and noticed the ‘top 6’ are all positive in GF (and they’re the clear top 6 in TOI).
Kahun —- 100min 5-2 (71%)
McDavid 128min 13-6 (68%)
Puljujarvi 112min 12-5 (71%)
Nuge —— 111min 3-2 (60%)
Draisaitl — 132min 9-7 (56%)
Yamamoto 115min 3-2 (60%)
(no one else is over 50%GF, though Shore is 1-1 in 48 min)
Interesting how low-event (but successful) Kahun-Nuge-Yamamoto were.
On Haas, you figure Tippett will play him vs Winnipeg? (Over someone in the lineup last game I mean).
My guess is that last nights forward lineup is what Tippett wants/hopes to start with, but not certain obviously.
And I’d guess Russell, Jones, Lagesson is the LHD pecking order if healthy.
I sense irrational exuberance today.
Хотели как лучше, а получилось как всегда
Lest we forget.
Godot, life is a journey, not a destination.
Depends on how far you’re from the destination! ?
Life time guarantees don’t have the same importance!
I’m more in the simulation camp. The purpose of life is to eff up the simulation, within the context of maintaining internal integrity and honour. #KobayashiMaru
i.e. achieving an I-Thou awareness of the simulation. Can the simulation become self-aware?
Many people see it as a journey because they fall prey to the illusion of the arrow of time.
I see it as a journey, to remind myself to be mindful.
Sometimes I get so wrapped up in goals and future outcomes, and retirement etc. that I forget to be mindful.
Each day is a gift! Live for the moment but be mindful of the future. I don’t think you learn to live until you have been at deaths door. It doesn’t have to be that way. A large part of your destiny is your choice! Choose wisely!
Then you–or anyone looking to develop more mindfulness / awareness–will enjoy this commencement speech (audio only) from one of my favorite authors, David Foster Wallace.
22 minutes well spent.
Will take a look.
Am I the only one who noticed how Drai said (paraphrasing) “I’m looking forward to the next couple of years”. Why not the next handful of years? Is he not planning on resigning with the team? Has he and Mcdavid been talking about not both being back with the Oilers after their current contracts are up??
Of course this is nonsense but my brain went here automatically when I read it lol. This is years of being hurt.
Very excited to see this team in the ‘loffs this year. GOilers!!
Lol. How many years were we not allowed to have nice things for?
I took it as nothing but pure happiness to be on the team and looking forward to the team’s future.
Ass
?
I see what you did there.
A 200 point season by McDavid no longer seems crazy to talk about. The guy is unreal and only getting better. McDavid has made hockey fun to watch again for this deflated Oiler fan. It is awesome.
Being an Oilers fan, I wonder does Brogan’s mom invite you over for Thanksgiving?
Like, how awkward is that?
I am 100% certain that Cups matter more to Connor than points. I don’t think he has a problem with priorities.
I do not understand how this relates to my post? Did I suggest that Connor does not care about winning?
I simply stated that McDazzle has the ability to drop 200 in a season.
I had an aunt that had a wonderful collection of cups!?
Don’t forget to enjoy the ride godot.
Whoa now. I would place higher odds of your nephew Brogan scoring 30. Only one guy has scored 200 and he was the ‘Greatest’.
Hurry! Death March Playoff 2021 starts soon!
Hunter1909’s Playoff Death March is here:
Simply follow the link:
https://oilersdeathmarch.com/marches/playoffs-2021/
1 – log in/register
2- predict number of Oilers playoff wins(called points on the home page)
3 – predict the tie breaker(explained on the homepage)
Its easy!
I’ve been liberated!!! I have very low expectations for this team in the playoffs because there are some obvious flaws in the roster. I think they can beat the Jets and will be mildly disappointed if they don’t. Any success after that will be bonus for me. I won’t get mad if they lose and I’ll still be very satisfied with the results of this season. The entertainment and excitement value has been off the charts for me already.
it’s very weird, but I can’t wait for the off-season. There is so much potential here and some very specific spots that need to be addressed. However, Holland has the cap space and assets to address those needs in a meaningful way. We’re on the cusp.
This is my first exact thought as well.
Bearish past the first round.
Too excited about next year!
+1. I had very low expectations. The rest of the season is gravy. I have learned my lesson, never bet against the McJesus!
I think it is time to get on starship McDavid! The present is excellent the promise is incredible!
I love the fact that Crosby, Malkin and Ovi are still producing into their mid 30’s ,it gives me great hope for a very extended dominant run for McDrai….in other words a 10 year window to pile up more than 1 cup
I love watching the evolution of Jesse, he gets meaner and more effective every game and his release is a completely different animal than those 1st 2 years in the league, this is a transformation I would have never believed possible, hist amazing
I love the offence from our Defence but damn we need someone else to piss a drop of offence other than the usual suspects….it has got to happen sooner than later right??
What an absolute blessing to have lucked into McDavid, it is almost hard to believe we get this twice.
Happy Mothers day to any moms on this wonderful space!!!
Seems like truly elite players, that 0.1% of the top 1% are ageless wonders.
To make it to the top of the record books in this (any) league you have to have longevity to go with all the luck and skill and success.
NHL all time points leaders:
The lowest GP total among those giants is 1282, by Esposito. It was probably the cigarettes.
*note: did so in 915 games. Outstanding, outlier.
14.Joe Thornton. (1528 points)
34.Sidney Crosby. (1325)
35.Alex Ovechkin. (1320)
62.Evgeni Malkin. (1104)
Connor McDavid. (569)
Leon Draisaitl. (500)
The Dynamic Duo could play another 1000 games. Averaging ~1 p/gm could see them both crack the top 10. Let that sink in for a moment.
So you’re saying we haven’t wasted the McDavid and Drai years quite yet? Excellent excellent post for perspective.
IDK why people think it’s so easy to win a Cup.
Look how long it took for Ovechkin. Or Recchi. Or Bourque. Thornton has yet to get there. Dionne never did.
I still remember 2003/04 when COL loaded up with Kariya and Selanne and everybody in the press was basically proclaiming them Champions before a single game was played. That team was stacked and just fizzled out in the playoffs.
Did we luck into McDavid or were we really that bad! It doesn’t’ matter! The jealous will always try to bring us down. Now is the time to show Oiler class and smile and not engage! I can’t wait for the cheers from my block in Penticton when the Oilers score! Time to sit back and enjoy!
LT, now that the official proclamation of the Decade of Darkness officially being over has been made, do you switch up the blog name to HighTide?
Hehe.
+1
It’s been so good, the triple entendre of Ron Low “Low Tide” and Kevin Lowe “Lowe Tide” packed in with the state of affairs of our team.
Your name is also so good by the way…
Meaningless games in Montreal.
Meaningless.
No need for McDavid, Nurse and Drai to even make the trip to Montreal.
Injury worries and rest needed.
Massive minutes coming in the playoffs.
Full week rest.
All can play last game next week.
Is it correct to say that one Montreal loss OR one Winnipeg win, and the playoff seeding is set?
Id play the full roster until it is garaunteed we play Winnipeg in the playoffs.
No need to give the Jets motivational fuel, that we took games off and jeopardized their 3rd-place finish. That’s the kind of thing that could tilt a series that we should otherwise win.
Only if the zebras take offence or Gary decides to be vindictive. It would also not look good for the league. It would even be worse if there were fans in attendance.
McDavid, Nurse, Drai and Coach T. disagree.
Of course, the TOI/G will be cut for all (18-20 for McDavid/Drai and 22-23 for Nurse) no matter how the games are going but none of them want to sit out games, in particular 3 straight games, and the coach doesn’t want that either.
Coach T. has talked expressly about “getting their games ready for the playoffs” and that includes playing games this week. McDavid has spoken about needing to be playing well going in to the playoffs and there is no “on switch” to flip.
The players want to play. The coaches want the players to play. They are going to play.
It’s just 2 games.
Full week rest, sometimes Nurse has been over 30 minutes per game here.
Play last game against Van.
Let them start fresh and heal those bumps and bruises.
I understand the premise, I’m mostly just saying that we know its not going to happen as the head coach has told us.
If they have real bumps/bruises, they will rest up and not play but it doesn’t seem like that is the case.
They’ve just had 4 games of exhibition type hockey – they need to get their games in “playoff mode) and sitting around is not going to help that.
McDavid and Drai playing 18-20 minutes and Nurse playing 22-23 will feel like a rest to these guys.
You’re not really wrong. The key is it has to be discreet. Nothing should be said or done to give the opposition something to rally around. I trust Tippett to do what is best for the team. He knows them better than any fan could.
My mom passed a few weeks ago so it’s a bit melancholy here today. She suffered from dementia for a number of years but we were able to keep her at home, and she she loved her pets and birds. I hope that everyone who still has a living mother will show them their appreciation and give them a hug.
Connor’s big night was fun. Of course people pop their heads up right away to explain why it isn’t a great accomplishment. They or their type were there for Orr and Gretzky and all the great ones. It’s in some people’s nature to try to tear a magnificent achievement down rather than appreciate it. I have learned to savour every moment of the magical athlete’s time with us, because it is an empty feeling when they are gone.
Quietly, Barrie passed Hedman to take over second place in the defenseman scoring table. Fox’s regular season is done- the race is practically down to Barrie, Makar and Hedman.
Why does there always seem to be an assumption that we cant build a roster for 2021-22 with all 4 current RD. Larsson, Barrie, Bear and Bouchard. It completely possible if you buy out James Neal ( and either buyout or move Koskinen with money retained)
In fact you can add a top six left winger (Like Hyman at $4.5AVV) ( a goalie tandem of Dreiger/Ullmark $4m and Smith $2m) and have Klefbom on the roster as well !
As well as re-signing Nuge at $6×5 and bridging Yamo at $2.3×2
Its all doable in 2021-22 .
Problems arise in 2022-23 when players (Nurse and others) need raises. But at that time, then you make a decision on Barrie or Larsson, etc.
Just dont give them NM NTC’s past next year.
But there’s only room for 3 RHD on the game day roster.
I get that that’s a common thought/meme, but why is it acceptable to carry four LD but not 4RD?
If Bouchard wins a spot on the roster, and you think you can move one of the RD, you’ll get a kings ransom at the deadline for Bear.
Having said that, I’d keep all four right D and look to move one of the left D
injuries are a factor. we’ve be lucky this year
only room for 3 LHD too
only room for 3 LHD too……and yet we have 6
Hyman gets more than that.
If Nuge would sign that deal, he would already be signed.
Have seen a number of writers projecting 4 to 4.5 for five or six years. Flat cap has seen some drastic drops in player contracts.
these are estimates give or take a million and a year.
give Hyman 5×5 if you want. Give Nuge 6.5×6
It all still fits for next year, with cap room left over I might add.
Believe it or not the world will go on past next year. To end up with Barrie on decline and have to move Nurse because we can’t afford him is the quick drop back to the decade of darkness.
I want Hyman.
I wonder how much he gets…..
Frick I want him too, no doubt.
I just think he will be in demand and that generally means a poorer value contract. The guys in demand seem to still get paid. It’s the next tier gets fed the nad-kicking.
Think of it this way… how many teams would be willing to give Hyman $4.5M? If it’s more than one, he signs for more than that.
I could be wrong. But from where we sit right now, that’s my estimation.
The money might stay at 4.5 but the term increased complete with a no move contract. The best value for dollars spent is after the main rush! These players may not be big names but end up being big value for money spent.
Agreed
I agree with this point – I will add three points
1.RNH is NOT going to get $6M, Yamamoto is going to get Jesse money $1.2M ish and Barrie is going to get $5M.
2.When Nurse is going to get paid we will not be paying our backup goalie $4.5M
3.If you trade Bear for a winger and replace him with Bouchard, you can afford
Nurse-Barrie
Klefbolm-Bouchard
Jones-Larsson
Russell/Lagesson
Agreed, except, Nuge might get $6 and I’d still keep all 4 right D for as long as I possibly could. ( hoping that Larsson signs after the expansion draft)
If Seattle offers RNH $6M, I would not get into a bidding war at that price. $20M over four years plus his earnings today is a strong offer.
You might be able to get Coleman and Goodrow at less term for $6M.
After this year will get paid and for a longer term than the Oilers can fit into their cap without making cuts in other areas or risk losing Nurse through his prime years.
I’ll be stunned if RNH gets less than $6 mill. I would expect Dougie Hamilton and RNH are the top free agent targets for Seattle. Build a base at C and D.
I am not completely convinced the rest of the league sees RNH as more than a good 2C or maybe a very good 3C or LW. That will compliment a power-play and penalty kill. $6M seems the high watermark.
I think Seattle will have the required resources to deal with Buffalo for a number one centre. There will be teams giving up draft choices for getting Seattle to not draft a certain player. It will be a very interesting off season!
Why would one trade one’s best all-around RD, on a value contract?
Well, he did say “for a king’s ransom” so I suppose it depends on what that amounts to
For the same reason you trade anybody that is not absolutely elite. Because you think the trade can improve the team.
Yes, you can trade good young players and win the trade. I know that is not something we have seen much of around this team but teams do it. They take a position of strength & use it to strengthen a position of weakness.
You know all of this.
You also know that if Barrie walks RD is no longer a position of strength and nothing is gained for a position of weakness.
Barrie has defensive weaknesses & elite offense.
Larsson has offensive weaknesse & elite defense.
What does a dman that has elite offense & defense cost in this league? Maybe $9 M in the current climate? And you get maybe 25 minutes a night for that?
So if you get 45 minutes of Larsson & Barrie for that $9 M is that something that a savvy bench coach can make work situationaly?
I think maybe Tippett thinks he can.
And the idea that the Oilers cannot afford Nuge, Larsson & Barrie has been shown by me – weeks or months ago – and many others since, to be untrue.
We will see what Holland and the UFA’s want to do this summer but it is framing the issue to arrive at the conclusion you favour to ask why you would want to trade your “best all-around RD” when you know that the decision has other considerations.
Are you in good conscience saying Barrie is our best all around right D. If so please explain why he is unable to hold his own without the best left D as a partner. Barrie for one to two years at current cap is value! At 5 or above on a longer term with any kind of no move clauses his contract is an anchor! We’ve been there done that and it’s not pretty!
If that is what you think I wrote you need to read slower. 😉
I said he is elite offensively as Larsson is elite defensively.
Bear is not elite either offensively or defensively. He is better than Barrie defensively and he is better than Larsson offensively but he is not elite at either. He is, as Godot said, the best all around RD on the team but he is not elite at either aspect. He is well rounded. He is a good dman.
There is an argument to be made though that well rounded is not game changing. It is steady and reliable. Barrie & Larsson are not well rounded but they are elite at different aspects of the game so the question that I asked is if a savvy coach can make two guys with different elite skills into a winning formula. I think he can.
As to you thinking you know what kind of contract Holland will agree to I think we all have a line in the sand. Trying to frame the discussion as though I advocated overpaying for too much term isn’t true. We may disagree where that line is but I think I probably talk about contracts as part of balance more than anybody else on this blog.
Elite skills cost money because they drive wins – even when they come with shortcomings. That is Tippett’s job. To maximize the elite aspects while mitigating the shortcomings.
Jones is replacement level and is not a top four D. Klefbom is far from a certainty to even play again. Your formula is extremely high risk and you do this to sign a small offence only D after his career year. I can’t see how this could go horribly wrong! You also haven’t figured in Samorukov who is already ( in my opinion ) a better option than Jones. The reality is Bear should be heir apparent to the first pairing until Bouchard shows he is ready. After this year Russel is a nice insurance policy where you have him. Russel is a quality individual with a big heart and a great example for the young D.
Signing Barrie and Larsson is very doable. It’s not a very efficient use of cap space and assets though. Running with those four RHD is diverting cap and assets away from another position.
Its actually pretty effiecient for the 2021-22 season. You can do it and add a top 6 LW and a Goalie tandem like ( Ullmark / Smith ) You’d be counting on a Youth liine like Benson / McLeod / Holloway. But I think thats a good thing anyway.
Where it becomes inefficient is in 2022-23. But why force the issue until then? This gives you an excellent roster for 2021-22 and buys you one more year to evaluate your RD situation. After that, youre dealing form a postion of strength.
But why would I want to do that? I can use the cap space for Larsson or Barrie to address a need somewhere else. Or I can trade Bear or Bouchard to address a need somewhere else. If we were carrying an extra third pairing RHD, I can see the logic. But under this scenario, we’re carrying an extra top four dman or an important prospect with huge upside who absolutely needs to okay full time.
The world will not end after 2022-23. Then back to anchor contracts and a team that doesn’t have the assets or cap to make the required changes. Short term gain for long term pain!
So what do you think Barrie is going to be able to ask for his next contract if he finishes the season as one of the top two scoring D in the NHL? I am hoping he plays his way to a huge contract that Holland refuses to match. If the stars align right maybe it will be the Flames.
Even better, Francis can sign him in the courting window and he can be the Oilers’ choice by the Kraken.
I’m not sure Barrie gets to 5 million on his next contract.
I still don’t sign him. There are better uses for those cap dollars.
McDavids night was reminiscient of Gretzky in one way for me. Both players reached their objective with a single game outburst. McDavid needed four points, got four points; Gretzky needed 5 goals, got 5 goals.
#gobigorgohome
And also similar to Gretz once he starting close, in the three or four games leading up to the record he really caught fire.
I was fortunate to witness both and they are separate but very special. Oiler fans have been very blessed now two times over!
Thanks for another beautiful write up LT, sunshine and hugs to all the amazing moms today.
It seemed last night that Van had the most success coming down the left side. Jones was beat again at least once by a long pass to a player on the boards. I surprise myself by thinking I’d rather have Russell in for the playoffs. Do we know if he’s hurt or just being rested/HS? I don’t think Tipp has run Lagesson with Bear at all this season (or much if he did), but boy o boy if I’m coaching against the Oilers Jones is a weakness I try to exploit. Maybe flipping him with Kulikov is the answer, but it’s a lot to ask of Bear to cover for him. Or Connor averages 2+ points a game in the playoffs and I can stop worrying about the team’s 3LD, which is entirely probable.
Well I just saw the link to Staples article so now I feel dumb:(
Russell is hurt – since the Tkachuk hit.
Lower body injury.
Mid-last week Tip mentioned he was about to start skating though.
Damn LT, I’ve waited over a decade to hear you proclaim the end of the Decade of Darkness.
Friggin dusty in here this morning..
Another workman-like win for the Oilers last night.
2nd in the entire league in regulation wins and 12th in Points and Points %.
Great season thus far. Can’t wait for the playoffs. And of course, congrats to Connor.
The lack of secondary scoring is going to bite this team in the ass come playoff time, there is no even strength scoring unless McD is involved, this is very worrying.
Absolutely scoring beyond McDavid and Drai is a real concern, just as it has been all season.
A key to playoff success will be the Drai line (with Nuge and Kailer) producing at evens. We know with certainty that they can and we need them to in order separate McDavid/Drai and have two material outscoring lines.
Regardless of the roster the reality is that there is no perfect roster! You can choose to believe that this roster can go a long way or you can fault find which you can do with any roster. Like all things in life we can not see the future so I will choose to stay positive seeing that we have the top two scorers in the league. No other teams fan can say this. Is the roster perfect probably not. That’s why we are fans which is shortened term for fanatics. In your favour is the fact that pessimists are seldom disappointed.
Wonderful post today LT, the entire thing.
Happy Mother’s day
2020 kicked the shit out of her with Dad dying of the Vid on Christmas morning & she suffered a stroke the next day. I’m the designated visitor for the family so at least I get to spend time with her. I hope she recognizes me today…?
As for CONNOR…amazing
Sorry to hear about your dad. F### the Vid.
Hang in there, brother.
Oh my. That’s terrible.
My condolences.
Give her a hug from me.
And take it easy on yourself.
You are a good son.
Oh man, that’s rough.
Stay strong and my condolences on your loss!
That’s a tough run. Best of luck to you and yours.
So sorry to hear that man. Hope your mom has a great day
Thanks Fellas
Has James Neal done enough to secure a starters spot for the playoff run? I like Neal , cheer for Neal, and want him and Chaser to form a miserable duo to play against while adding a bit of skill. I see McCurdy gave him a Grade of 7 for last nights work, he did make a couple of skilled play but omg, he looks so slow and ineffective when the puck is not on his stick. What to do, what to do?
Tippett says these are the guys he’s running with, no?
Last year of slow verterans. Next year “the kid line” Benson McLeod Holloway
I was in a good mood last night, but I did like the way Neal passed the puck.
In general he looks old and slow, like he was a 33 year old power forward with lots of miles on the odometer or something. And COVID knocked the crap out of him. I do think he’s played his best hockey of the season this last while. But that’s a low bar.
McLeod seems to have helped Neal’s game but everyone playing with McLeod has looked good.
100% on his passing Bruce he made some exception plays last night and he can still think the game an an elite level, but mediocre skaters become liabilities in their 30’s…Father time remains undefeated
So the question remains, what to do?
Yes, it does. Temptation would be to give the savvy vet the first look in the playoffs. But if Kassian is ready that likely changes the equation.
Neal was good last night, to my eye but, anecdotal, I see him having one good game followed by a meh game followed by a good game followed by a meh game.
Chiasson does some good things out there but, after two minor penalties, I was thinking about Ennis in the lineup and Neal shifting over to the right side.
I’m not sure Neal can/should play every playoff game and Ennis should get some looks.
I also don’t think Chiasson needs to play every night (although I do acknowledge the good that he does nightly as a solid vet) but I think the head coach thinks he does.
NEW for The Athletic: The 5 Oilers prospects who improved the most in 2020-21
https://theathletic.com/2575424/2021/05/09/lowetide-the-5-oilers-prospects-who-improved-the-most-in-2020-21/
Wherein the Sportlogiq crew compares Smith to Luongo and Johnny Bower…
https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/oilers-mike-smith-chasing-history-remarkable-bounce-back-season/
David Staples wrote a post in a similar vein at CoH the other day. This one offers a little more statistical heft. I found the graphic on breakouts very interesting indeed, and share the interpretation that the sweeper-keeper plays a critical role. I’m convinced that plays a major part in Tippett choosing Smith 3 games out of 4 even when Koskinen was playing well, and note that Smith has consistently faced 2+ fewer shots per game over the two seasons they’ve been a tandem.
Would love to have seen a similar statistical breakdown during Marty Brodeur’s heyday. He was consistently belittled by analytics types who focused only on save percentage and other save-related metrics and not his massive contribution to flow of play. Brodeur disrupted forechecking schemes to the point of forcing opponents to adjust their game plan, while also allowing Devils defenders more latitude to defend the blue line and force the dump in.
2020-21 Smith looks to me to be the best stick-handling (sweeper-keeper) in history, I’ve never seen anything like it. And I saw a lot of Brodeur, who would rank as a close second for me.
Im just talking about the stick handling part of the equation. Not the SV% etc
Smith is good but Brodeur was far superior in my opinion. Better passer, fewer risks, more consistent. MB30 was less flashy than some puck movers but ruthlessly efficient. I rate him the best I’ve ever seen, & I’ve been tracking puck moving tenders since Jacques Plante was a trendsetter.
Marty Turco was also in that conversation.
His teammates always gave him credit for how easy he made their breakouts.
Agreed, Turco was next generation Brodeur, flashier, not necessarily better. But one of the very best. The guy Turco took over from, Ed Belfour, was no slouch either.
If I’m not mistaken, Smith gives Turco a lot of credit for helping him in this aspect of the game, including having the confidence to play the way he does.
Fuhr, Hextall, Belfour, Turco…
The stats camp argued about this, but IIRC we did admit that there were goals saved, not just the obvious ones given up by gaffes. The dispute arose over which was greater. I always preferred the puckhandlers. That trapezoid is there for a reason.
Can’t recall for sure but I believe Johnny Bower was 44 when Toronto won.
When TO last won he was 42. and the bulk of games was played by Sawchuck. That’s why the article refers to the best age 38 seasons in NHL history. Bower’s age 38 season is one of them.
On the other hand, when Jacques Plante was 42 he set the still-extant single season record for save percentage, at .944. In 1970-71. Also with Toronto, believe it or not.
Smith has 3 years to hit his peak! 🙂
Too bad he fell off the age curve when he got here lol.
Man, the age these guys played to back in the day.
The really weird one though was Sawchuk dead at 40 three years after winning the Cup with TO… and a month after playing in his last playoff game, three months after his last shutout.
Huh.
TOP 25 SEASONS ADJUSTED POINTS
McDavid is on pace for the 2nd best adjusted points per season in history!!! Draisaitl has the 15th best! (via hockey-reference’s method since 1950-51 season (to capture Howe’s seasons))
Rank Player PTSAdj, Season
1Wayne Gretzky*170,1985-86
2Connor McDavid166,2020-21Wayne Gretzky*166,1984-85
3Mario Lemieux*165,1988-89
4Wayne Gretzky*163,1983-84
5Wayne Gretzky*159,1982-83
6Wayne Gretzky*156,1981-82Mario Lemieux*156,1995-96
7Wayne Gretzky*155,1986-87
8Wayne Gretzky*146,1990-91
9Jaromir Jagr145,1998-99
10Jaromir Jagr144,1995-96
11Phil Esposito*141,1970-71Mario Lemieux*141,1987-88
12Wayne Gretzky*139,1988-89
13Phil Esposito*138,1973-74
14Phil Esposito*133,1971-72
15Jaromir Jagr131,2000-01Gordie Howe*131,1952-53Leon Draisaitl131,2020-21
16Bobby Orr*129,1970-71Mario Lemieux*129,1992-93
17Joe Sakic*128,2000-01Steve Yzerman*128,1988-89Nikita Kucherov128,2018-19Leon Draisaitl128,2019-20
18Wayne Gretzky*127,1980-81Mario Lemieux*127,1996-97
19Phil Esposito*125,1968-69
20Bobby Orr*124,1969-70Wayne Gretzky*124,1987-88Bernie Nicholls124,1988-89
21Sidney Crosby122,2006-07Alex Ovechkin122,2007-08Evgeni Malkin122,2011-12Guy Lafleur*122,1976-77Teemu Selanne*122,1998-99
22Joe Thornton121,2005-06Phil Esposito*121,1972-73Jaromir Jagr121,1994-95Eric Lindros*121,1994-95
23Jaromir Jagr120,2005-06Wayne Gretzky*120,1989-90
24Henrik Sedin119,2009-10Jean Beliveau*119,1955-56Guy Lafleur*119,1977-78Pat LaFontaine*119,1992-93Wayne Gretzky*119,1993-94Patrick Kane119,2015-16
25Peter Forsberg*118,2002-03Gordie Howe*118,1950-51Brett Hull*118,1990-91
Look at all the Leafs and Flames players!…. oh wait…..must be on page two
Bobby Orr tied for 16th greatest scoring season playing defence. No wonder they still sing songs about him in the Boston pubs.
I’m not sure I buy into “Adjusted Points”.
Gretzky played with a 1×4 piece of wood for a stick for a big chunk of his time and Sears Catalogs for shin pads and constantly had a train of players hanging on to him.
Give him some modern equipment and fitness and nutrition routines and the current reffing situation and lets see how he does.
His skillset revolved around situational awareness and pinpoint accuracy and I don’t see that changing much in the modern game. I watched him score goals where he had to flip the puck on edge vertically to squeeze into a sliver of space on the side of the goal post.
He’d be more than fine in the modern age.
That’s an important point of context. Also important is the abysmal goaltending of the era, sub .900 sv% was common.
That’s why era-adjusted goals is a thing — it’s a way to level the playing fields of different eras. Nothing is exact but it’s a good proxy to equivocate the accomplishments throughout the eras.
That said, apply the opposite logic: put Connor in the 80s. Woah.
Elite players always find a way; the cream rises to the top.
Gretz also played when goalies equipment were 1/3 of the size of today and when goalies only “went down” when they slipped.
He was also playing against guys who had a smoke between periods and never worked out at all during the summer.
https://youtu.be/X0DeIqJm4vM
Pour some re-signed Adam Larsson in to my viens.
Yes, ideal would be a post-expansion draft signing for 3 year but if he signed for 4 tomorrow and the AAV is under $4M, I’ll take it.
For the “extra fourth year”, the cap hit should come down.
I’ll be content, but not enthused if both the term and AAV start with a 4 – one needs to be a 3.
No trade protection Adam, sorry.
I still want to have Adam Larsson over for dinner!
He can tell you how many takes he did to say “for never being afraid of Hunter”!
4×4 would be great value for the Oilers
3 years X $4M
OR
4 years X $3.25MM – $3.5MM
For me
Yup, then trade him next summer when Parayko and Nurse sign matching $6.5M x 7 deals.
Beautiful words LT……what an amazing place this is.
First Gretzky And now McDavid.
Incredible
OK, the rubber is about to hit the road – I’m being serious.
The Oilers got through the real “playing out the stretch games” that didn’t matter at all – they beat Vancouver in 3 of 4 and McDavid has been SuperNova for weeks and hit his 100 early. Unreal.
With that said, during the last bit, aside from McDavid essentially doing what he wanted when he wanted, the team was really going through the motions (except for lock down 3rd period last night).
3 games left before the playoffs and the next two are against a playoff team and on the road.
Its time.
Its time to play good, clean structured hockey – attention to detail – limiting chances – etc.
Playoffs are coming, in like a week and a day (or two) – lets get ready!
Two games against Montreal will be the perfect tonic. We have something to prove against them and their style of play doesn’t allow you to phone it in.
I’m not so sure about that. Hope the games are a couple of no hitters as I don’t need to see crosschecks into the neck and ribs and endless clutch, grabbing and interference. I would worry about injury and or showing a game plan for other teams to copy.
Given MK’s recent woes, the team should come out next game and protect the house like it is the church of hockey…and carry on from there for the next few weeks 😉
MK’s recent woes was one period of hockey, no?
Shouldn’t they being doing that regardless of MK’s last period?
Agreed… and I think the coach showed a hint (hopefully) of playing Larsson and Nurse together to open last nights game. ending the message to be ready on time to play a full 60 minutes and not letting the first shot on goal in the net. I’m not suggesting, nor did Tippet, leaving this pairing together. Just be ready with as you said structured hockey.
Or, the coach just wanted to give Larsson a hat tip for his 600th game by giving him the start and I’m out to lunch.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the beautiful Mom’s out there or in our hearts.
Absolutely correct. Cocentrating on the record is done. Serious game time now. Bottom 6, jessie n the highlander are imparitive to be a large part.
What are the face/mood reading sports writers in Toronto saying today?
“BREAKING: Auston Matthews Burping In Public Raises Concerns Over Whether Megastar And Greatest Player on Earth Has Flu Leading Into Playoffs
….
UPDATE: It was indigestion.”
TSN has three articles on the Leafs “above the fold.” The main article they’re showing right now is Tortorella’s firing and below that they have the generic Canadian Press article of McDavid’s milestone.
Shameful.
Don’t you realize that the telephone was invented in Brampton Ontario?
Literally an article on the Leafs getting vaccinated ahead of any mention
of McDavid’s 100th point. It’s almost satire at this point.
Happy Birthing People’s Day.
That was about all I could think about while reading LT’s article, lol:
Oh dear, this is so non-pc…
McDavid is #392 in all time scoring after playing 404 games. He should be inside the top 250 after next year.
Gretzky’s totals are untouchable, but we are likely watching the heyday of the 2nd 2,000 point player in NHL history.
Nadir’s Raiders….now there’s a name I haven’t heard in a while. And I hope never to hear again. “Bad news and good news, kid. The bad news is that you’re going to follow the worst managed franchise in North American major sports for a decade. The good news……”
The bottom six seemed to have learnt that “saw off” doesn’t mean the branch you are sitting on. The D has learnt that the puck 200ft from your own net is a good thing. And is if to underline the collective wisdom of this blogosphere, goalying is voodoo, and you ride that horse until it dies.
Still, somewhere in Tee Dot, or even closer to home, McDavid could still be better defensively and Matthews is the benchmark for the modern Major General.
The winter made glorious summer by this son of Richmond Hill. His sails unfurled.
Excellent article, as always. I always appreciate your Mother’s and Father’s day write ups.
I also like how the weekend that you mention a 4 year deal for Larsson, is the day Friedman talks about it on HNIC. Good call.
I said to my Fiancee a couple of times last night that we were witnessing history, and that this was one of the greatest individual seasons of all time. She asked me why I kept repeating myself – and no, I hadn’t had any wine… I think it’s because even though you watch Connor and you read his stats and you acknowledge his brilliance, it’s hard to fully comprehend what we are seeing.
So I find that I almost have to tell myself that we are seeing history unfold. That this is close to once in a lifetime material. McDavid is so damn good he has me muttering to myself like a maniac apparently. Worth it.
You know that McDavid has reached that level of Orr and Gretzky when people were talking as if it would be a disappointment if he didn’t get at least four points last night. You don’t assume that mere mortals will be getting four points in a NHL game no matter who the opposition is.
Happy Mother’s Day and to all the women that visit this site.
?
and to all those who don’t
And finally, listening to Slow Train Coming this morning, it feels musically like a direct response to Dire Straits’ debut. Sounds like Dylan heard Knopfler and decided he needed some better guitar playing on his next release.
Great piece of writing today. I wish I could afford two Lowetides.
Btw when did the splendid B&W uni in that McDavid photo appear?
The perfect colour scheme for a team named the Oilers. Why is this not a thing?!
I believe it was an all star game jersey. But I agree looks awesome!
A brand new day yes, but still no balance photo!
Current balance photo.
This is All Time Funny
Which one is CONNOR?
Hahahaha hilarious! Thanks for the laugh ?
So accurate. A+!
Don’t forget the Donner Party. They may still be lurking!
Is It just me or is Caleb Jones a very meh player? Good skater yes, but I don’t see that one standout skill you look for in an NHL regular. He’s a Ford Taurus.
He’s a Ford Taurus at the price of a Ford Escort.
I think hes on his way out this off-season. The coach doesn’t trust him that is very clear.
He’s a mercury Tempo
Actually the Mercury was the Topaz. The Tempo was the Ford.
In high school I had a Topaz as a first car. But it was the 2 door GS with the V6 that they put in the (much bigger) Taurus.
That car was fast! But looked like a clunker.
I surprised a few people.
Pffft I’m talking about a mercury Tempo, it was a mercury topaz. Then I replaced the transmission and passenger seat from a tempo, ripped the name badge off and slapped on the tempo badge. There was a solid 5 year period I destroyed about 20 of the damn things 4×4 and drifting ?
Too many mistakes – good article from the Journal making a strong case for K Russell to be in for the playoffs.
https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/when-playoff-push-comes-to-shove-expect-kris-russell-back-in-edmonton-oilers-line-up
On another matter, I had not realised the Oilers are tied 4th for SV% at 91.1%. Who would have predicted that?
The kid is only 23 and has played 90 NHL games, I look at he player Nurse is vs the player Nurse was a fe short months ago and conclude Jones has a ton of runway in-front of him.
It is a lot easier to teach defensive awareness than teaching somebody to skate and pass at an NHL level.
Nurse was playing 1st pairing at 23. Jones isn’t a comparable.
As expected before this series with Vancouver
it wasn’t will Mcdavid hit 100 points.
the real question is how many games to spare will he have when he does
I thought the team’s passing was very sharp last night and they were hard on the forecheck but couldn’t sustain it. They present like a team that could do some damage in the playoffs if they can play consistently.
That said, this Northern Division feels like a bit of a false economy.
Really? Thought there were some real howler passes, but I’ll attribute that mostly to trying to force-feed a player who can already use the Force
Next year’s Pacific features an expansion team, the three re-building Californian teams, and Calgary/Vancouver will once again be complete wildcards. Only Vegas to be concerned with.
As always, goaltending will be key.
The Leaf and Oilers are false economy? Hardly.
Sometimes I truly wonder if people watch NHL not involving the Oilers.
Neither team has been a significant Cup contender in years. Get over yourself.
Lol, get over myself. Ok then
BTW, which is, they could do some damage on the playoffs or it’s a false economy?
I wonder how many points McDavid would get and how many goals the Oilers would score if they were in a division with Philly, Buffalo and Jersey this year?
Or one with ARI, LAK, SJS and ANA all in the same division…
/ It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day..
#feelingood
Love Nina Simone and that’s my favourite of hers.
If you also enjoy Lauryn Hill check out the colab album made by Amerigo Gazaway between Nina and Lauryn out on Soulmates Records
Lol… put on the first song that came up and it lasted about 10 seconds. I need a groove and some soul. Music today strikes me as all filigree… rococo art.
Lauryn Hill’s last album came out 23 years ago. Her solo album and The Score with Fugees are true classics and massively influential hip hop albums. Of course that is not everybody’s cup of tea.
A year ago who would’ve guessed that Jesse would be the rising star now and Nuge the missing person case?
🙂
I didn’t know what Jesse could be, but Nuge always worries me.
I hope they sign him for cheap and find a sniper to play with hm in the off-season.
Wondering if you noticed Nuge’s reaction to McDavid’s celebration last night…it was remarkably muted in real time with little more than a tap on the pads while others were literally embracing Connor.
Moments later, the camera showed Nuge sitting on the bench between McDavid and Draisaitl who were very animated and talking around Nuge while he was showing no emotion with his head down.
Curious.
Argofuckyourself
I feel bad for Nuge. I wonder if he is playing hurt.
Nuge has been somewhat of a missing person but we know how effective he can be – he can be a very very good 2-way top 6 forward. Maybe he just doesn’t “have it” this year and doesn’t find that game but there is the definite possibility that we does find it for the playoffs. I’m not “counting on it” but its something that could happen.
Nugent-Hopkins had a clear shot to the net from the slot on the 5 on 3 not long before the goal. Normally he shoots that puck 10 out of 10 times but, given there was no McDavid touch, he pulled it back to the point.
Nuge had no issue doing his part “for McDavid”.
Great, historic night, and a real shame there weren’t fans there. Moments like this require witness.
Really had a feeling McDavid was tired of talking about 100 and wanted to get it out of the way. When you’re that elite, I guess you get to call your shots.
Congrats to Leon for 500 and Larsson for 600 games, hilarious wave to the crowd.
Unforgiveable and criminal there weren’t fans there. I’m sure society will deal with it in due course.
From the keepers of the doomsday clock…
https://thebulletin.org/2021/05/the-origin-of-covid-did-people-or-nature-open-pandoras-box-at-wuhan/
I read that article in Medium a couple days ago. Very thorough, well-written, non-partisan.
I’ve bookmarked it, but not on Mother’s Day when I have 600, 500 and 100 to feel good about.
It’s a long and engrossing read. Definitely save it for when you can give it time and attention. It’s not like we’re going anywhere any time soon…
This.
I was thinking the same, thing while watching from afar.
Was lucky enough to be in the building when Gretzky hit 50 in 39 and it was truly insane.
The determination and energy 97 had last night reminded me of Gretz in those last three games of 50 in 39. IIRC he went 4-4-5 over that stretch. Would not be denied, like we saw from Connor.
Gretzky began the five game home stand straddling Christmas with 35 goals in 34 games, & scored 3, 2, 1, 4 & 5 goals, & 7, 3, 4, 5, & 6 points.
5 GP, 15-10-25. I attended every one of those games & will never forget it. (Or if I do, I will be beyond hope.)
EDM Goal Share after 53 games (33-18-2)
Even strength (5v5,4v4,3v3)
97 w/o 29 (30-29)-51%
29 w/o 97 (22-16)-58%
97 & 29 On (35-16)-69%
Turris(7-17)-29%
Other (20-34)-37%
Net EV +2
Special Teams:48-29
Net ST +19
Empty Net:12-3
Net EN +9
SO/PS 0-0
Net SO/PS 0
Net Goal Diff +30
When the Turris (3C) & Other Goal dfferential is close to even or above, then we are talking Annual Contender and Powerhouse.
Until then it’s all on 97 & 29
Ya, that “Other” player is still disappointing.
Thanks as always Woodguy. When will you start a stat line for McLeod?
Hurry! Death March Playoff 2021 starts soon! Entires are welcome until the first game is played.
Hunter1909’s Playoff Death March is here:
Simply follow the link:
https://oilersdeathmarch.com/marches/playoffs-2021/
1 – log in/register
2- predict number of Oilers playoff wins(called points on the home page)
3 – predict the tie breaker(explained on the homepage)
Its easy!
We love everyone! Everyone is welcome to play!