Tumbling Dice

by Lowetide

Howie Meeker used to talk about the joy of watching Frank Mahovlich having fun playing NHL hockey. The Big M would fly up the ice, shoot the puck, get hammered by an opponent, then skate back down the ice and hammer the same guy after he took a shot. Meeker would giggle in delight at the thought of the big man laying it all out there on 200 feet of ice.

Watching Jesse Puljujarvi on nights like Thursday, Meeker’s words come into view. Lots of men have played in the NHL, not sure many have more fun doing it than the giant Finnish winger from Alvkarleby.

THE ATHLETIC!

WHAT TO EXPECT IN DECEMBER

  • At homeΒ to: PIT (Expected 0-1-0) (Actual 1-0-0)
  • On the road to: SEA (Expected 1-0-0) (Actual 0-1-0)
  • At home to: LAK, MIN, BOS, CAR, TOR, CBJ (Expected 3-3-0) (Actual 1-5-0)
  • On the road to: SEA (Expected 0-1-0) (Actual 0-0-0)
  • At home to: ANA (Expected 1-0-0) (Actual 0-0-0)
  • On the road to: LAK, SJS, CAL, STL, NJD (Expected 3-2-0) (Actual 0-0-0)
  • Overall expected result: 8-7-0, 16 points in 15 games
  • Actual December results: 2-6-0, 2 points in 8 games
  • Oilers in 2021-22: 17-11-0, 34 points in 28 games

The Oilers badly needed that win, and the attention to detail through two periods and then some highlighted the importance of the game. Plenty of examples last night about making the right play, not trying to force the issue, and staying on the right side of the puck when a jailbreak was right there.

I had the Oilers 4-4-0 through eight December games, the team is actually 2-6-0. They’re two games behind the projection, tough to make up in eight games but there are some good signs currently for this team.

Stuart Skinner stopped 36 of 38, .947 and now boasts a .922 SP after 10 games. Edmonton controlled much of the game, but Skinner made some big stops when it was in doubt. I have a feeling we’re going to see him in at least 20 games this season, on merit.

Duncan Keith took a penalty and had a couple of giveaways, blocked three shots and played 19 minutes overall. Chased out toward the blue, meaning Edmonton was outnumbers on the Nyqvist goal. After he failed to block the pass, he got back to the slot quickly enough to be also in photo. Not much happening offensively, but he did get the puck out of the zone under control. Has to stay on his feet.

Cody Ceci played the Nyqvist goal textbook, slow reaction and bad bounce happen for both teams. He was a little late getting over on the Danforth goal, the puck was dancing on that play too. He had three hits and a shot on goal, jumped up in the play a few times.

Darnell Nurse played over 26 minutes, including plenty of time on both special teams. Played a physical game, joined the rush with authority and had three shots, four blocked shots. He was on the ice for the second Puljujarvi PP goal and and the Perlini five-on-five goal. At five-on-five, Edmonton won the shot share 16-13 with Nurse on the ice. He tracked back several times on the defensive side effectively, mostly good outlets.

Evan Bouchard went walkabout on the Danforth goal. He raced back to the slot in time to get a good look but couldn’t support the play. Bouchard was patient on the Perlini goal, serpentine move up the ice, followed by a deft pass and his assist. Five shots, four blocked shots and three giveaways. He had several promising sorties, Bouchard creates chances like crazy. His gap control has been an issue for a few weeks, have to remember young defensemen don’t develop in a straight line.

Tyson Barrie picked up an assist on the first Puljujarvi goal and the power play looked quicker from the opening opportunity. One shot, a couple of giveaways, he didn’t play much at evens but if Barrie can key a power-play goal per night (big shot from the point, rebound gets shoveled home) that’s a big help. He had some looks and kept the puck from danger.

William Lagesson had such a good chance I thought he might score on that one play. One shot on net, a HDSC, played sparingly and kept things simple. He’s getting more comfortable in the NHL, his aggressiveness has increased.

Warren Foegele had a shot and drew a penalty at five-on-five, plus scored his third goal of the season (and first in awhile). Two shots, two hits, interrupted play defensively. A good performance.

Jesse Puljujarvi had a night. Four shots and a HDSC at five-on-five, he scored twice on the PP and set up Foegele’s EN goal. He’s on pace for 28-39-67 in 82 games, that’s an outstanding year. I’m delighted he is living the dream for the team that drafted him, wish Nail Yakupov was alongside.

Connor McDavid had three shots and a HDSC at five-on-five, people were dm’ing me asking why McDavid wasn’t shooting more. It might have been his right-winger shooting the puck every possible chance. I thought 97 was flying, slightly surprised he had just two assists, he had so many chances thought he had more. Can he get to 150 points?

Kailer Yamamoto caused two penalties on the same play, although they gave him credit for just one drawn one. Had a takeaway, blocked a shot, had a few seconds on the PP. I think the Oilers should get him some PP time, maybe he could play the Letestu spot from a few years ago. Of course the blasted thing is heating up again, so there’s that. Turned the puck over at the opposition blue just before the Danforth goal, a puck hammered deep was the right play. Not helping offensively.

Leon Draisaitl had one assist, two shots on goal and tried to set up Yamamoto about 10 times. I thought he was more deliberate in his passing but the big man still turned the puck over in a couple of tough spots. It’s insane to complain, but the No. 2 line isn’t getting a full share of shots/chances right now. I think it’s time for a freshening of his wingers. Overdue.

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins feathered a gorgeous feed to JP for his assist, my goodness he’s such a wonderful passer. Had one shot, two takeaways and a great chance on the PP. He’s headed to a Tommy Herr season (9-64-73). His coverage was sporadic at times and the second line wasn’t productive five-on-five.

Zack Kassian had a great night, one of his best in memory. Made a fantastic interception of what looked like a sure goal by back-checking and reading the play well. He also picked up an assist on the Perlini goal, his shot producing a nice rebound. Two five-on-five shots, one HDSC, hit some guys, blocked a shot. A great night.

Derek Ryan scored a goal, had a high-danger chance, three shots five-on-five, two takeaways, 2:25 on the PK. Ryan has played that game many times, it’s the recent edition who looks like an interloper. Hopefully we see more of last night’s Ryan.

Colton Sceviour had another good game, blocked four shots, kept the puck heading in a good direction, and pushed his way to good results when required. He’s not fancy but is effective.

Brendan Perlini had 1-1-2, seven shots, two HDSC and skated miles. He’s a frightening forechecker and gives the team a different look. Man if he could do this every night. Impressive.

Tyler Benson had a nice look, a great pass to the slot (such a good passer) and two giveaways. Got a couple of hits, too. He’s settling in.

Kyle Turris had two shots, one creating a rebound, plus a giveaway. Touched the puck more often, even got a few seconds on the PP.

FORWARD LINES

Three of the four lines posting over 50 percent and the No. 2 line isn’t rhyming. Yamamoto is the obvious player to demote, perhaps Zach Hyman slides in with Nuge and Leon when he returns. Look at that damned Derek Ryan line! Good work from the makeshift fourth unit, too.

OILERS PAIRINGS

I think both of the top pairings would benefit from a stronger third unit, that’s a trade deadline move and we’ll see more of Lagesson, Niemelainen and eventually Dmitri Samorukov. I love the ‘idea’ of young defensemen making the NHL, actually watching it is pretty damned scary.

LINES AT FIVE-ON-FIVE

Through 28 games, the Oilers at five-on-five are 53-65, a poor number for sure. The club was almost at .500 (35-37) before the injuries hit and all hell broke loose. Here are the splits by center, using their rank on the depth chart as proxy for what’s going on:

  • Connor McDavid: 12-12 (50 percent)
  • Leon Draisaitl: 13-9 (59 percent)
  • McDavid-Draisiatl: 12-10 (55 percent)
  • Ryan Nugent-Hopkins: 4-6 (40 percent)
  • Ryan McLeod: 5-6 (45 percent)
  • Derek Ryan: 6-16 (27 percent)
  • Others: 1-6 (14 percent)
  • Total: 53-65 (44.9 percent)

Ryan’s line is 3-3 after November 18, McLeod’s line is 3-4. If those things can hold, I like Edmonton’s chances. I have an article ready at The Athletic that will be up sometime today about how the Oilers can increase the opportunities for third and fourth-line success. Stay tuned!

LOWDOWN WITH LOWETIDE

At 10 this morning, TSN 1260, we hit the ground running with the Lowdown. We’ll declare it the weekend around noon and before that Steve Lansky will pop in to talk Oilers, World Juniors and more. We’ll also have an Oilers guest at 11 to track last night and project the weekend. 10-1260 text, @Lowetide on twitter. Talk soon!

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Eh Team

Seems pretty likely that with Tippett, Shore and Nuge on the list already, that the Oilers Covid list is going to keep growing.

Randle McMurphy

AND BOOM! Just like that Yamo and /or Foegele get a chance on PP1

Randle McMurphy

Or Perlini!

Cassandra

Why not just call up Marody?

I mean, I know it is because they don’t think he is a player, but if they don’t think he is a player so much that they don’t call him up now, why do they have him at all?

15 pts in 18 games and -1 is pretty good on a minor league team with no talent. Griffith has more points but is also -7.

This team treats its young, fringe players badly. How many examples do we need?

Jones
Bear
Marody
Lagesson

DevilsLettuce

Jones was outplayed, Bear was traded for a different need, Lagesson has alot of competition, Marody isn’t being treated badly because the Oilers don’t view him as a solution.

Every team is filled with young fringe players that can’t find their way or need 2nd or 3rd opinions.

Scungilli Slushy

If they could establish some level of NHL competence he would also be worth something.

For me the Oilers need to start getting something for the players they don’t see as a fit, instead if only burning picks. Smart teams find a way to recoup spent picks, or add more.

lenko

They would rather get some plugs cause they’re gonna sit a lot anyway.

OriginalPouzar

Griffith’s points are almost entirely from the PP – he hasn’t produced much at 5 on 5 this season.

Cassandra

Exactly. This is usually the reason not to call someone up for the AHL. If their production comes on the powerplay, and they aren’t going to be used on the PP in the NHL, then they aren’t NHL players.

However, this isn’t Marody, he’s not a powerplay specialist. He’s an even strength player, and the best even strength players in the AHL can play in the NHL.

Now some teams might have better players, but not all of them. And the Oilers have the worst 4th line in the league and have Covid issues. Marody is likely an upgrade and should get a chance.

OriginalPouzar

Need to be cognizant of cap space here.

Right now the Oilers have $1.1M of LTIR reserves but, when Smith is activated and Skinner sent down, the will have less cap space.

Yes, I know, “keep Skinner and assign Mikko” – yes, I’m all for that but not sure management will be.

jp

No relief for the Covid guys? They’re just the same as regular IR?

OriginalPouzar

That is correct – no cap relief for Covid.

jp

Thanks, thought there was for vaccinated players on Covid protocol for some reason.

Last edited 2 years ago by jp
Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve

I highly doubt Holland is cognizant of cap space.

Ryan

Hey, you forgot Gabriel Valardi? πŸ˜‰

Harpers Hair

He would be a perfect fit.

22 year old 6’3″ 200 RH shot C.

6 points in 7 AHL games.

Ryan

It’s funny, I had surmised that he might be available for the obvious reasons, but hadn’t seen this till I just found it.

https://theathletic.com/2964409/2021/11/18/is-it-time-for-the-kings-to-trade-gabe-vilardi-and-what-are-their-options-after-his-ahl-demotion/

Last edited 2 years ago by Ryan
OriginalPouzar

Its really interesting that they called up two forwards yesterday and only have 5 active d-men.

As of now, there is no cap room to activate Koekkoek.

There is no cap room to activate Broberg (no performance bonus room due to Niemelainen’s $100K bonuses).

Something needs to give in order to have 6 d-men for tonight – maybe Shore back to LTIR or re-assigning/waiving a forward.

OriginalPouzar

Sorry, this isn’t right. Koekkoek is just on IR, not LTIR, so they could activate him for tonight.

That’s got to be it!

OriginalPouzar

Of note, Konovalov with 20 saves on 21 shots in the 5-1 win.

One 10-bell save I saw on a 2 on 1 – no point for Rafferty!

OriginalPouzar

Broberg’s first (note the give and go with Lavoie exiting the zone):

https://twitter.com/Condors/status/1472074490817376258

Lavoie’s earlier snipe:

https://twitter.com/Condors/status/1472063157195587590

OriginalPouzar

Deharnais breaks up a play in the defensive slot – Lavoie and Broseau with a nice give and go to exit the zone and Broseau leads a 2 on 1 with Borberg – the pass over and Broberg shovels in his first AHL goal.

5-1 Condors with 6 min to go.

Full value for the lead.

OriginalPouzar

Lavoie with a snap shot off his back leg from the far point and it goes off the goalies glove an in – doesn’t get much weaker on a goalie than that one.

Bill

5 point (2G 3A)night for him, be nice if he could get a bit of momentum and keep it.

Whaler Slamamoto

I credit his shooters mentality and ability to get to the blue paint.

knighttown

Damn you!

Louie really needs to stop saying that.

Tarkus

Listen, he just had to dig in and stay in the battle, no question.

OriginalPouzar

Broseau causes a turnover as the Gulls try to exit their zone – Lavoie gets the puck with space, takes it to towards the net coming off the left wing and snaps one far side over the shoulder for his first of the season.

flyfish1168

“Get off the schneid”  Now let’s hope he can get on a roll and build the confidence he needs.

OriginalPouzar

What, a Lavoie-sighting.

Broseau dumps one in from center, the Gulls goalie simply shovels it to the side of the net, Lavoie is the first man there and backhands a pass to Broseau in the slot for his 2nd goal on consecutive shifts.

OriginalPouzar

Samourkov starts the play in the defensive zone with a board battle win, then gets it back and dumps it in hard to the o-zone, Cracknell gets there first, spins, feeds Brosaeau in the slot who buries it.

1-0 Condors after one – a dominating period.

AsiaOil

Is Samarukov still playing with a face shield?

OriginalPouzar

Yes.

Richard Roma

I’m trying to figure out next season.

The party really gets started when the Oil are on the hook for nearly $20m in cap hit for Nurse, Barrie, and Keith.

That’s an abomination of cap utilization for those three players.

Keith’s not going to retire when he can retire into the LTIR sunset for $1.5m.

How’s Holland going to manage over $9m in LTIR to get cap compliant for the season start?

OriginalPouzar

If they still have Klef on the books and he’s not available to play next year, they will likely need to use off-season LTIR like they did for this season.

Harpers Hair

Anaheim beat St. Louis 3-2 in OT.

Troy Terry scores the tieing and winning goals.

Now 17 goals on the season.

Who is this guy?

Justthestatsman

It’s December 17 today. The game you are referring to was played December 12. You may want to refresh your browser. Anaheim is playing Arizona tonight if you’d like to update us on that…

Harpers Hair

Vegas wins 3-2 in a shootout over the Rangers.

3rd game in 4 nights and the second of a back to back.

The march to #1 is almost complete.

ribber500

I assume by almost complete you mean 50 games short? Being 1st in the division means nothing till game 82. I mean, just ask the other 3 teams that have already occupied that spot.

Harpers Hair

Vegas was without their entire top line for a considerable part of the season.

Since Stone and Pacioretti have returned, they are dominant.

Jack Eichel will make his debut soon and they will become an even tougher out.

Imagine where the Oilers would be without McDavid and Draisaitl for combined 29 games.

Randle McMurphy

Now imagine Vegas without Lehner

Reja

The Canadian woman’s team showed more physicality on one shift then the Oilers did on there entire 6 game home stand. Note to Holland draft some players with edge no more hobbits.

Harpers Hair

His post is the opposite of misogynistic.

OriginalPouzar

So, Keith in Covid-protocol.

I’m a bit surprised its just one more.

Niemelainen on IR.

Marody and Griffith recalled.

OriginalPouzar

This leaves them with only 5 d-men for tomorrow…… well, plus Chychrun I guess….

OriginalPouzar

I would think that maybe they want Broberg/Sammy to play tonight and then recall one tomorrow but there is no room on the roster with both Griffith and Marody recalled (and, of course, Oilers take precedent over the Condors so they probably wouldn’t want the recall to play tomorrow).

Harpers Hair

Pretty tough to recall a player from Bakersfield to Seattle overnight.

Ice Sage

16 hour drive in a stretch limo on Katz’ dime = do-able

Harpers Hair

Yep…nothing like being fresh for an NHL game.

OriginalPouzar

What a weird thing to make up.

2 hour drive to LAX – multiple direct flights to Seattle.

OriginalPouzar

I don’t understand hey they have the cap room for this.

EDIT: Oh, Russell moved to LTIR

Whaler Slamamoto

Knock knock! For marody!

Tarkus

Even Max Wanner is getting in on the scoring with an assist so far tonight for Moose Jaw.

Tarkus

Wanner have an aPPle now? Sure! Two helpers on the night and still over a period left to play.

jp

Last time you mentioned Wanner he also had a couple of apples IIRC.

OriginalPouzar

It seems he only produces once every few weeks or so but its generally a multiple point game.

norm2015

Keith in covid protocol

JimmyV1965

Wasn’t he vaxxed less than three months ago?

Randle McMurphy

Omicron ?

Tarkus

Petrov draws an assist as North Bay opens the scoring in period 2.

OriginalPouzar

For anyone that was wondering why Lagesson was in over Niemelainen last night, Gazzola (Tom, not Paul) breaking that Niemelainen is going on the IR with a hand injury.

I think his IR stint as a Condor last year was a broken arm……

Tarkus

Tullio gets Oshawa on the board in period 1 with his 9th tally of the year.

Tarkus

Tullio strikes again in the first, this time on the PP to give Oshawa the lead.

ChupaCabra

He’s gone Twolio tonight!

Tarkus

And there’s the hatty for Tullio with an even-strength marker in the second. 11 goals on the season now.

Minister D-

ESM taking a more than usual amount of potshots at Yamo lately. I wonder with the Chychrun smoke they might be prepping us for something.

OriginalPouzar

I have read/hear this a few times and Matheson and Spec tweeting about is lack of shots is, to me, a long ways from taking pot-shots at the player.

I’ve been defending him for a while now but its getting to the point where more scrutiny is deserved. 7 games without a shot playing with the linemates he has and culminating in last night’s performance where he was, by far, to my eye, the least effective forward.

I don’t think this is an organization-based mission but simply an acknowledgement of what is happening on the ice.

Decidedly Skeptical Fan

Maurice would be a huge upgrade as head coach.

Diablo

No he wouldn’t … he was unable to take a deep and talented Jets team over the hump in 9 years as head coach. He’s a good quote but he’s never won a damn thing in the NHL, after long runs a head coach with three different organizations.

Decidedly Skeptical Fan

You know, I was thinking the exact same thing when his team sliced and diced ours in the playoffs. Good observation.

OriginalPouzar

Of course:

Maurice – 9 seasons with the Jets

Tippett – 2 seasons with the Oilers

jp

They have exactly the same number in the 19 years since they were both head coaches in the league.

Scungilli Slushy

I think there were a few OT games no? Is that Slap Chop? Nope.

buck yoakam

really happy for lagesson…and the bottom six getting real minutes…

John Chambers

What is the single biggest weakness on the Oilers … now and over the next 3 years?
Is it LD? Not likely that Holland thinks he needs to upgrade is big off-season target in Keith. And Broberg will be here by next season.
Is it Goal? Who besides Fleury is a major upgrade? What does that cost? Is goaltending really the Oilers’ main weakness?
How about 3C. The bottom-six costs the team real goals. Nearly every game. And the Oilers don’t have a strong centre in the pipeline to outplay the other teams’ bottom-6.

If the Oilers are going to spend prospects and draft capital, I’m trading McLeod, Kassian, + to get Yanni Gourde from Seattle.

MushedPeas

I’d be in for that or similar.

OriginalPouzar

Well, yes, of course, McLeod and Kassian for Gourde would be a no-brainer – I can’t imagine it would work for the Kraken.

FYI: Dylan Holloway may be a center at the NHL level – he was in his second NCAA season.

Scungilli Slushy

He has all attributes of a centre

This Oiler group of bosses want size skating and FO for C

Which is great if you have that, or not so great if you don’t and refuse to use players where they do best bcs that’s what you want and are going to have, wins be damned

Last edited 2 years ago by Scungilli Slushy
Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve

From the Kraken’s perspective, why would they make this trade? Kassian has negative value so it would cost a ~1st for the Kraken to take his contract. McLeod is an older prospect and is not established. So the + in this trade would have to be considerable.

From the Oilers’ perspective, why would they make this trade? Gourde is 30 and signed for 5.1M for the next three seasons. The Oilers do not need another old forward signed to a large contract. There is no cap space for the next two seasons.

The Oilers need to identify the next Gourde and trade for that player.

John Chambers

Do the Oilers have a track record of identifying emerging pro talent?
But along those lines … Pavel Zacha?

jp

Wait, are you saying Gourde for McLeod+Kassian would be the mythical lose-lose trade?

Decidedly Skeptical Fan

It’s behind the bench and in the front office.

diego costa

β€œIf you had rats in your house, & someone sold you chemical to get rid of them, but 18 months later it turned out you actually had more than twice as many rats as before, what would you say to the person who said the chemical worked really well? What would you say when he insisted that you buy more chemical?” Asking for a friend.

Diablo

The rats are probably in the walls. You’ll need to fumigate them out. Rats reproduce every 30-45 days. The exterminator probably did not get all of the nests the first time.

PinkSocks

How many rats are in the houses of people who didn’t buy the chemical?

Johnny skid

Are you in the chemical sales industry?

Diablo

Not trying to sell you on chemicals – I am a molecular biologist who works with genetically modified mice and rats. So I am very familiar with murine biology.

Once rats start to find cozy places to nest, they are very tough to eradicate. I would listen to your exterminator, over anyone else on this site, myself included.

Johnny skid

I’m assuming one of us is misinterpreting the author’s comment.

jp

That’s kind of nonsensical.

Harpers Hair

No it isn’t.

We live in a rat infested location.

Their reproduction rates are prodigious.

Moonlight

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.

Fuhrious

I’d probably check into it and find out you had a different species of rat and ask you β€œAren’t you glad you don’t have all these new rats AND all the original ones? Also, aren’t you glad the chemical is slowing down even these new rats down so much that they only do about 10% the damage and will also eventually die out unless you foolishly stop using the chemical”?

Johnny skid

i wonder if it’s possible that the chemical being used is faulty and there is a far better product readily available

Fuhrious

We’ll, if you think the many millions of trained professionals in hundreds of countries are conspiring together to hide the β€œreal cure” that you and your buddies have β€œdiscovered” on Facebook, go use it. Just build a wall so that your rat problem doesn’t affect anybody else.

Randle McMurphy

Coyotes currently have 8 picks in the first 2 rounds…. jeesh

AND they will have cap space to weaponize.. haha

Diablo

They’ve done nothing with their picks in decades. If a player doesn’t develop immediately as an NHL player, they flush them and move on to the next set of magic beans. They make the Oilers look competent at development.

I’m wouldn’t be too worried about them β€˜weaponizing their cap space’ either … their owner is too cheap to even pay the rent on their arena.

Randle McMurphy

I was kidding (weaponize is punchline on this site) and Diego Costa was analogizing.

Diablo

Sorry, missed the sarcasm. My bad.

Randle McMurphy

I’m really enjoying watching the the lesser lights get more playing time. Looking forward to even more on Saturday.

Lagesson, Niemelainen, Perlini, Foegele, Benson, etc

Randle McMurphy

“Ryan’s line is 3-3 after November 18, McLeod’s line is 3-4. If those things can hold, I like Edmonton’s chances. “

AND Ryan, McLeod, Perlini, are all just 20 gms in as NHL Oilers. I think we often under-estimate the adjustment period. New Room, new Coaches, new teammates, new systems,new City, new, new, new.

Especially for bottom six players… imo… nothing comes easy for these guys. They are affected more by small changes.

ο»Ώ

OriginalPouzar

Sounds like Smith won’t play tomorrow.

I’ve got to presume that Skinner gets the start (assuming there is a game to play).

I think its obvious that Perlini will/should take Nuge’s spot and Marody called up to play in the bottom six but I am amenable to the position that the Perlini/Ryan/Kass line should/could stay together as I think all three of them had their best games of the season.

Moonlight

This is truly disappointing that McLeod is out, we could have seen the Benson – McLeod – Marody line, tis a shame.

β‚¬βˆšΒ₯£€^$

Perlini! Perlini!! Perlini!!!

That is all…..

Side

I hate Perlini.

Every time I hear or read his name it makes me hungry for italian food even though there isn’t a dish called perlini.

Such a tease.

Randle McMurphy

Would you prefer we call him Bruschetta?

ziggy1397

as I said a day ago, I prefer the Howie Meeker famous quote of “he couldn’t put the puck in the ocean from the pier”. Jessie Gump P played his strange came of standing in front of the net and got two rebounds while being completely useless for the remaining part of the game. But take a puck in the package at the end of the game and managed to push the puck out of the zone where another player did all the work and scored into the empty net. Typical point for Gump. Stop overexaggerating his contributions to the team.

DevilsLettuce

Are you requiring medical assistance?

Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve

I have it on good authority that ziggy1397 is Olli Juolevi.

Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve

Or maybe a disgruntled bison.

β‚¬βˆšΒ₯£€^$

Brilliant!

Jesse merely scores 2 goals and a tater (apparently) plus 8 shots, on a night when the 2 top players on the planet combine for 3 assists and 7 shots. This on the heels of the ENTIRE TEAM managing only 6 goals in the previous 5 games….

I don’t think anyone will be overexaggerating your contributions to this blog.

Bruce McCurdy

This is the worst take I have seen in quite a while. JP had a terrific game last night, 8 shots, at least 4 excellent stretch passes, effective in all 3 zones. He was named first star for a reason.

ziggy1397

I admit I suffer from that disorder where I speak the truth and it pisses people off. Oh well, they will see the light some day and insult me until they do. Such is life.

Randle McMurphy

No. Actually life can be different. Instead of constantly speaking the truth, try searching for the truth and hearing the truth. It will change your life. I promise.

#TheRingOfTruth

JOFA

Another victimπŸ˜ƒ

Side
meanashell11

Oh my goodness. It appears he has registered a new account with a new identity!

Material Elvis

The scary part is that you truly believe what you are saying.

OriginalPouzar

This is V2.0 like posting.

It cannot be taken seriously on its face as its not even believed by the poster.

Diablo

Yeah this is either another troll pretending to be an Oilers fan … or someone they recently let loose from the facility in Ponoka.

flyfish1168

JP did many skill plays last evening. Stretch passes to Connor and Warren. A backhand rebound off Barrie’s shot. Quick hands for 2nd goal. Multiple moves off Dmen to provide net-front presents. Multiple board battles won.

You either want to be controversial or you don’t know hockey.
JP did many skill plays last evening. Stretch passes to Connor and Warren. A backhand rebound off Barrie’s shot. Quick hands for 2nd goal. Multiple moves off Dmen to provide net-front presences. Multiple board battles won.

You either want to be controversial or you obviously don’t know hockey.

Last edited 2 years ago by flyfish1168
Scungilli Slushy

Maurice resigning for the reasons he did show to me that such changes do make a difference, if there is a sticking point or it isn’t possible to move further forward.

It doesn’t always have to be β€˜losing the room’, the better coaches probably don’t have that happen very often in the NHL.

For me coaching at the highest level (assuming technical competence which most would have for being hired at all) is more about people skills than anything else.

It’s how an improvement in coaching can make the same group look so different, of course different tactics also contribute, fitting the right ideas for the group as it exists.

But I think it’s mainly about convincing all players, but especially the high end players, to make individual changes to accommodate team success.

Things are really shaping up for an interesting summer for coaches.

Maurice, Babcock, Quenneville (I believe he will coach again after whatever is required of him), possibly even Trotz without gigs.

That is a lot of highly successful guys available at one time. Pass on Babs for me though.

PinkSocks

Quenneville should never be allowed near a hockey rink again in his life. If Trotz does get fired on the Island (which he wont), the Oilers should be all in.

Scungilli Slushy

Noted.

Harpers Hair

Colorado,Calgary and Florida all shut down until after theChristmas break.

Likely more to come.

AsiaOil

Yamo could be effective in the bottom 6 and move up when needed. Trade to SEA also makes sense but not much there except maybe Appleton. Not sure if that’s a trade either team makes, but I’ve always liked Appleton as a bottom 6 RH C/W.

Sierra

Good game last night. This win is so important. So is some 5v5 scoring.

The Covid situation with the Oilers and NHL is definitely worrisome. Fingers crossed for all.

OriginalPouzar

Pierre LeBrun
@PierreVLeBrun
Β·
25s
Things keep changing rapidly, but as of this very minute, the NHL still doesn’t plan to pause the entire league…. Like I said, as of this very minute…

DevilsLettuce

Hopefully Winnipeg hires Babcock.

godot10

Be careful what you wish for.

DevilsLettuce

Maurice would bring an excellent forecheck to Edmonton.

Scungilli Slushy

He’ll get them going good, for a while. Heh heh

flyfish1168

He is waiting for KH to call

Woodguy v2.0

EDM Goal Diff 28 gp(17-11-0)

EV Only(5v5,4v4,3v3)
97 w/o 29(13-13) 50%
29 w/o 97(13-9) 59%
97&29 On(13-10) 57%
93 w/o either(4-6) 40%
71(4-6) 40%
10(6-16) 27%
Other(2-6) 25%
Net EV -11

Special Teams:32-16
Net ST +16

Empty Net:7-5
Net EN +2

SO/PS 2-0
Net SO/PS +2

Goal Diff +9

Ryan has gone from 16% GF to 27% in 2 games by going 3-0 in 5v5 goals.

His time with Kassian all season is over 50% CF and xGF while being 6-7 in goals.

Ryan is 0-9 in goals without Kassian.

I don’t think those two should ever be split up for the sake of both of them and the team.

Sierra

Kassian!

DevilsLettuce

97 and 29 only being +3 together, not worth the loading up it seems.

Scungilli Slushy

So the forward pairs are

McD JP
Nuge Drai
Ryan Kassian

Is Foegele McLeods partner? Or is that a work in progress. Maybe Yamo.

Munny 2.0

If only 29 could rid himself of that boat anchor, number 97…

πŸ˜‰

Last edited 2 years ago by Munny 2.0
OriginalPouzar

Wait, I thought negative results for bottom 6 players were directly correlated to playing WITH Kassian???

Randle McMurphy

I think there is a winning formula here for the NHL (the players especially).

Shut the league down over the 2 week Christmas break, Dec 21st to Jan 5th.

The players get to be / become Covid free. Get to spend time with their families.

The fans get to watch the World Jr’s over that exact time period.

The NHL contains Covid and gets to assess the Olympic situation. If no Olympics, make up games can occur during the Olympic break.

Munny 2.0

Why would that “contain” Covid?

It’s far more likely you’re simply delaying the inevitable.

DevilsLettuce

The league shuts down for covid, they won’t be shutting down again for the Olympics.

The best thing the NHL could do is just play empty arenas while Omni runs it course then hopefully some form of normalcy can return.

Taxi squads, no fans, Chrychun for Broberg trade.

godot10

Covid is endemic. Adapt on the fly. Taxi squads, empty buildings, players isolate themselves as much as possible, play through it.

Scungilli Slushy

Shutting down won’t help for long. Only a bubble would with this one. Unless they wait until the spike goes through which would mean another delayed and split up season.

I don’t see how they can do the Olympics if the season is the priority.

Randle McMurphy

Perhaps. But the players have a say.

Diablo

And so do the owners … if a player goes over and has to go into quarantine and miss a bunch of games … those players are not going to get paid for the time they miss.

Munny 2.0

The PCR doing Nuge in could be a huge opportunity for Benson.

I’d be tempted to run him one game for sure in Nuge’s spot and see if his distribution skills help out.

Can’t think of another player not already on PP1 with as similar a skill set.

Hopefully the coaching staff sees it the same way and aren’t too protective of the young lad.

Numenius

Agreed on Benson. This would be a good chance to see if he can produce with skill.

Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve

If RNH is now on the covid list after playing last night then it is only a matter of time before another 5-10 Oilers test positive.

NHL is going to be forced to pause soon or proxy the games on EA NHL 22.

PinkSocks

If CBJ can healthy scratch a nice prospect like Chinakov for 5 games straight and he comes back and plays quite well last night, the same should also be true for Yamo. Once the team is close to healthy again, Yamo needs a few nights upstairs to regroup and be reinserted into the lineup further down the depth chart.

Reja

Yamo seems to have a anti Randy Newman following, he can do no wrong. The man needs to sit out a few and watch from above. Yamo hasn’t had a shot on net since woman wore skin tight Wrangler jeans at the Wild West.

Randle McMurphy

Perlini, Sceviour, Kassian, McLeod, Ryan, Benson, all have the ability to play well against weaker teams.

Perlini is a pure shooter. If he could settle in to become a Miro Satan light…….even just a Miro Satan extra virgin cold pressed light …. that would be a win.

What could Perlini do with some of Nuges PP1 time???

Last edited 2 years ago by Randle McMurphy
JimmyV1965

Why would you take Nuge off PP1? He’s a huge part of its success.

DevilsLettuce

Swapping Nuge for Perlini is definitely a move Urban Myer would pull.

Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve

Because RNH in is covid protocol?

Randle McMurphy

This ^

godot10

Nugent-Hopkins passing on the power play is far more important the Perlini’s shot would ever be.

Draisaitl, McDavid, Barrie…lots of guys who can shoot on the power play.

The key to a power play is puck movement. Nugent-Hopkins shot is pretty good, when he doesn’t have time to think about it.

pts2pndr

Barrie couldn’t hit the Pacific Ocean shooting off a pier over it!

Randle McMurphy

Nuge in protocol

PinkSocks

Regarding Kassian, yes he did some good things with the puck in the offensive zone, but I can’t reconcile the positive with his constant turnovers in the defensive zone. I don’t understand why he is the only winger that when the puck comes up the boards on his side, he either loses a battle and the puck doesn’t exit the zone, or he flips it into the neutral zone where the puck is inevitably dumped back into Oiler territory.

I’m glad he got a point, but the positive last night offensively was far outweighed by the defensive zone play.

Randle McMurphy

“Zack Kassian had a great night, one of his best in memory. Made a fantastic interception of what looked like a sure goal by back-checking and reading the play well. He also picked up an assist on the Perlini goal, his shot producing a nice rebound. Two five-on-five shots, one HDSC, hit some guys, blocked a shot. A great night.”

Randle McMurphy

I get why you say that. He does suffer from Lucicitis up the boards on his own side. But I’ve also seen him make some sublime tip passes from there as well.

Coilers2021

Tavares and Kerfoot of the Leafs on Covid protocol.

This is getting silly. Just pause the season already. These games being played with 2-5 guys missing is affecting the integrity of the game.

Reja

Money is more important than the safety and integrity of the game. These NHL players do have the right to refuse to work if they believe it is unsafe to be in such close contact with so many people.

Coilers2021

I can appreciate that but take last night’s game in Montreal that didn’t have any fans. How much money did Montreal make off of that one?

The players need to think twice about things, IMO. After all, many of them have homes and families to go back to at the end of the night. Do the players not get paid when games are postponed or cancelled by the league?

PinkSocks

On one hand I agree, push everything back two weeks and then hope for the best. On the other hand, it’s just going to happen again so why bother. The players are all vaxxed, most cases are mild or asymptomatic, so trudge through it and hope that next season we all don’t even have to think of the C word.

Reja

Everything is doublespeak at the moment. Are you saying persons that get Vaccinated don’t get as ill as unvaccinated when both parties test Positive for Covid.

PinkSocks

Not at all. It’s clear at this point that vaccination status makes zero difference whatsoever but players have done as their masters have instructed. More likely? The players are professional athletes with a professional athlete immune system and covid is going to go through the league regardless of vaccination status, and the players have the same risk catching covid and they do catching the flu during any other season.

For instance, my sister and her husband both got covid last month. My sister is not vaccinated and was asymptomatic, while her vaccinated husband was in bed for a week. My wife and kids and I caught it during the summer, felt fatigued for a day and only knew because of an antibody test. None of us have been vaccinated.

It’s different for everyone and people should make their own decisions about wearing a mask and getting a shot and going out in public. Fear has taken over. Let the players go out and play. If they test positive, let them sit out a week and carry on. Enough is enough.
/rant

Reja

There was a few players Archie that made a personal choice to balk on the vaccine. If your sister was going to receive millions of dollars to take the vaccine would she of still stood her ground on not getting vaccinated? When you know and hear of a percentage of Doctors and Nurses etc that have refused the shot it makes me think that everything is not Black & White as some people seem to think.

PinkSocks

Neither my sister, or I, or my wife would take it. Not a chance. US Congress doesn’t have to take it, that should say it all. You can always get it, but you can’t un-get it.

Material Elvis

US congress people are laymen and not qualified for anything. What do they have to do with it?

Material Elvis

Your anecdotal evidence is much better than a global scientific consensus.

Revolved

Yes, this is how it is and always has been.

Cassandra

Everyone knows that persons who get vaccinated don’t get as sick. Everyone.

How is this doublespeak?

Reja

Are you sure? Where’s the Data for this new variant? I wouldn’t trust the state run CBC as far as I can spit.

pts2pndr

It is so much smarter to buy into a group of conspiracy theorists bullshit!

Reja

Sounds like there’s no room for discussion in your world. Have fun with that and Godspeed to you.

PinkSocks

Plenty of evidence to the contrary.

jp

Are you saying persons that get Vaccinated don’t get as ill as unvaccinated when both parties test Positive for Covid.

A couple of people have replied to this, but it bears repeating. Yes!

Harpers Hair

Colorado had 8 regulars out of their lineup last night.

Randle McMurphy

So you’re saying there’s pro’s and con’s to the situation πŸ˜‰

Diablo

I thought we were supposed to leave these discussions at the door before entering?

Reja

Half the league is going into protocol and you want to talk about rats well my suggestion is buy a rat dog and a cat, problem solved.

Randle McMurphy

“I think both of the top pairings would benefit from a stronger third unit, that’s a trade deadline move “

Agreed, Duncan Keith at 3LD would be sublime.

Jakob Chychrun age 24 signed for 3 more years after this one at $4.6m. No wonder the ask is huge.

Coyotes can take back salary. This would be a game changer. I would overpay to achieve it.

I would go as far as sending Tyson Barrie the other way to make the money work and playing with a weakened right side.

A 1st rounder, an asset not named Broberg, and Tyson Barrie.

Eh Team

That doesn’t seem to be remotely in the ballpark of what they could get for a true #1 D

Randle McMurphy

I was just in the process of editing, and it timed out and wouldn’t let me make changes

The 1st, 2 assets not named Broberg, Holloway or Bourgault, and Tyson Barrie.

Or, if push comes to shove, two 1st’s an asset and Tyson Barrie.

I’m reticent to include Broberg because I believe he can learn to RD.

Forget the names. My point is I’d be willing to overpay. Nurse and cost controlled Chychrun for the next 3 1/2 years is mana from heaven / top 8 contender defense.

Last edited 2 years ago by Randle McMurphy
31saves

I think if Chychrun is coming, then the return will likely be something in the area of 2 1st round picks, Yamamoto, Broberg, Turris and Kassian in exchange for say, Chychrun and Kessel half retained.

Coilers2021

Hmm…lots of possible trade scenarios here. I wonder where in Holland’s history as a GM that suggests he would do a deal like that where he swung for the fences and sent out a gazillion assets for one player. Maybe in the late 90s when he dealt for Chelios or when he dealt Hasek.
I would be very leary of Holland dealing for Chychrun as I think the overpayment would be debilitating to the club’s long term future.

Last edited 2 years ago by Coilers2021
31saves

In one day, the 1999 1st round pick, the 2001 first round pick, Anders Erikson, 2 1999 2nd round picks, a conditional pick, a 2000 3rd round pick and Kevin Hodson all went in exchange for a haul that included:

  • Bill Ranford
  • Ulf Samuelsson
  • Chris Chelios
  • Wendel Clark

He also went big with Hasek, but Kozlov and the 2002 first round pick were fair value for the world’s greatest goalie at the time.

He grabbed Robert Lang in 2004 for a 1st round pick, Thomas Fleischmann and a conditional pick

The year before Schneider was acquired for Sean Avery, a 1st round pick, Maxim Kuznetsov plus a 2nd round pick

Bertuzzi acquired for Shawn Matthias and 2 conditional 2nds in 2007

Brad Stuart for a 2nd and a 4th in 2008

Then nothing major for a long time, until it came time to tear it down.

It seems that if his team is in contention and in the cup window, Holland is not afraid to trade picks and prospects for big splashes, however he has reserved it to about one a year since 1999. The last time he made a major deadline deal would probably have been Bertuzzi (unless we’re counting Athanasiou), but since the start of the cap era, he hasn’t really made major moves at all.

Holland also wait until the deadline or the week leading up to it to make moves… just saying.

Randle McMurphy

That looks to me like Broberg and 2 1st’s for Chychrun. I wouldn’t that.

I might consider Chychrun and Crouse for 2 1st’s Yamamoto, Turris and Kassian 

DevilsLettuce

Keeping Broberg over acquiring Chychrun is insanity.

Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve

Correct.

Munny 2.0

Good reasons. I know I’m convinced now.

πŸ˜›

Last edited 2 years ago by Munny 2.0
DevilsLettuce

23yr old top pairing defender with multiple years of cost control that matches up with the Oilers core perfectly.

Maybe one day Broberg develops into that, but Chychrun is that.

Randle McMurphy

not if you’re moving Barrie to make the money work.

Broberg can play RD in a pinch

ArmchairGM

Not directed at you in particular, but I find it fascinating how many Oilers fans treat Barrie like a cap dump. I get that he’s not great defensively – we knew this long ago – but to have an elite offensive defenseman on a $4.5M contract is an incredible asset for the team. I suspect he’ll be missed if (when) he gets traded.

I came across some interesting stats on Barrie. I know points aren’t everything, but this shows just how elite Barrie is offensively: in the last 5 seasons, Barrie is 5th in the league among defensemen with 220 points in 300 games. In that timeframe, only 59 forwards had more points. There are many, many notable names that have 220 or fewer points: Nylander, Ehlers, Laine, Horvat, Forsberg, Meier, Paccioretty, Fiala, Rakell, Killorn, Eberle, Kreider, Toffoli, Gallagher, Hyman, Saad, Connor Brown, etc. Most of these guys get paid more and produce less.

Barrie isn’t perfect, but he’s one of the best in the world at what he does. We’ve been waiting eons for this player, so why do the majority of Oilers fans think he’s not even worth his contract?

Randle McMurphy

I wasn’t thinking of Barrie as a dump. Part of the deal while making the money work.

Apparently the ask for Chychrun is 4 pieces.

I’ve looked at his fancies, he’s having an off year. But historically, career wise he’s low grade top pairing Dman. Or an excellent 2nd pairing Dman.

I think my offers above are overkill. I am willing to overpay for the guy but not 4 significant pieces.

Perhaps,

Barrie ( because he has value AND to make the money work) a 1st, and prospect.

pts2pndr

Barrie is a minus player over the last five years with three different teams. In his last four years of playoffs he is also a combined minus player. The Oilers have the luxury of an offensive right D on a better contract that can replace what Barrie brings with better overall D and who logically will improve with experience. Barrie has value but his cap could be better utilized elsewhere. He is in my opinion a luxury the team can’t afford with our current needs elsewhere on the roster.

ArmchairGM

Actually, Barrie isn’t a “minus” player. His 5v5 on-ice goals are 246-233 (+13) over the last 5 years. We already know he’s not great defensively, if he was he’d be making a LOT more money. The only guys who have scored more than Barrie in the last 5 years are
Carlson: $8M
Hedman: $7.875M
Burns: $8M
Josi: $9.059M

And all these guys either signed their contracts years before Barrie did and/or took less than market value to stay in a favorable situation.

Look, I don’t have a problem with you suggesting Edmonton trade Barrie if it improves the overall roster, but at least recognize his value as a player. He’s not a cap dump and he doesn’t have a bad contract.

OriginalPouzar

It would have to be:

a first rounder

an asset named Broberg

Tyson Barrie

another substantial asset.

ArmchairGM

Why? How much does Chychrun bring over what Barrie brings? He’s a downgrade offensively, is he THAT much better defensively so as to make up the difference AND provide value over and above the 1st, Broberg and another substantial asset? Pretty hard to see it from here.

ArmchairGM

Over the past 2.3 seasons, Barrie is +2.12 GF% Rel while Chychrun is +2.25 GF% Rel. Their usage wasn’t all that different either: Chychrun played 812 minutes vs Elites (28.5%) while Barrie played 798 minutes (26.4%). So besides age, what are they Oilers getting for their 1st, Broberg and another significant piece?

http://puckiq.com/woodmoney?tier=Elite&positions=d&group_by=player&sort=evtoi&sort_direction=desc&from_date=1569902400000&to_date=1639717200000

Last edited 2 years ago by ArmchairGM
Randle McMurphy

That might be the ask. I wouldn’t pay it. (and I’m willing to overpay πŸ™‚ )

Would you?

What is about Chychrun that makes you think he’s a 1-2 ?

You think he’s better than Nurse?

Or is it his contract that makes him that valuable?

Diablo

I think Holland tries to fix the goaltending first before making a decision on D. That will involve first seeing what Smith has left in the tank when he returns from injury. If Smith falters, then I can see a trade with Chicago for Fleury. After which they will evaluate what they have with competent goaltending in place.

No deal for a d-man is going to happen before that.

who

I think defense is the biggest area of need, but I don’t see how they fit Chychrun in going forward.
Yeah they could send Barrie to Arizona but I thought we were trading him in the summer. To pay for the Bouchard and JP contracts.
The expiring Koskinen contract covers the Nurse raise, and a Barrie trade covers new contracts for JP and/ or Bouchard.
Where’s the money coming from for Chychrun?

Randle McMurphy

It’s a shame that with the Nuclear Arsenal we have, we have played so few Overtimes this year.

If we could have made it to OT in just 2 games of our recent 6 game losing streak, we might still be in 1st place in the Pacific.

Offside

or, if like the Flames, we could have at least gotten the loser point

PennersPancakes

Yamamoto doesnt have a shot on net since December 1st, aka 7 games, aka 103 minutes of ice time.

Theres snakebitten then theres whatever is happening now. If he was playing with purely Ryan/Mcleod it would makea little more sense but to be shotless this long with a MVP center? Yikes.

I dont know what you do but its concerning.

DevilsLettuce

He needs some time watching the game from above.

Jethro Tull

I think the next thing for McDavid and Draisaitl to learn (and we know they love to add new skills to their armoury) is the intentional bank off the goalie’s pads. When the D lay down and take away the cross pass and the goalie aggressively cuts the angle and the winger is driving the net.

Randle McMurphy

JP is 23.

CANNOT WAIT to see him at age 25.

Oil2Oilers

He is a big strong kid. At 25 he will be a big strong man. He will become a player loathed by opposition defense, if he is not already.

I hope he starts wearing an NFL quarterback flack jacket for all the abusive stick checks he receives in front of the net.

pts2pndr

He actually tried to throw a couple of checks last game and he will become a true force when he learns to use his big frame more to his advantage!πŸ˜‰

Randle McMurphy

If we are up by 3 goals and playing well, I’d like to see Yamamoto and Foegele get 1st PP time. Not at the same time but with each getting a turn.

DevilsLettuce

I’d like to see Yamamoto earn that opportunity.

Randle McMurphy

I would like to thank Mikko Koskinen for carrying the load as the starting backup in Smith’s absence. He has been spectacular in at least a few games and above average for a backup in most games. Without Mikko we are not 16 and 5 to open the season.

Having said that, if our opening night roster 2022-23 is Skinner, Smith, Konovalov we will have found the golden ticket to the chocolate factory.

Kono is my favorite district in Hawaii.