I always worried Peter Chiarelli would trade him. Chiarelli dealt everything not nailed down, and the Nuge, while brilliant and effective as a young player, seemed to get ill every November. As someone who observed a long stretch without an impact center on the roster, for me Nuge represented a reimagined future built “up the spine” with strengths in goal, defense and at pivot.
Years later, come to find out the man can play the wing at a rate of knots. I’ve been thinking about the Nuge lately, about the days and nights in the 2010’s he would have been dreaming about a moment(s) like last night.
The kids were never the problem, you know. From “I’ll have a talk to him” to the water bottle incident to parking Evan Bouchard (did you see the pass?) at the side of the road for too long, the kids were never the problem. You have to be patient, and you have to make sure lessons are learned.
You want to mentor players who have five years experience after five NHL seasons, and fade those who have one year’s experience five times. You know, the Oilers have a pile of great players, some high picks and some lower, but for me much of the issue over the last dozen years surrounds changes in management. The George Carlin line about “getting all of your junk out of the way so I can put my stuff here!” always applies with new management.
Evan Bouchard. Stuart Skinner. Ryan McLeod. Dylan Holloway. Each of these young men have had moments of struggle, and each of them have contributed to this edition of the Edmonton Oilers. Last night, Philip Broberg helped win an important playoff game. These are important players for Edmonton’s future.
LAST NIGHT’S GAME
That was the most complete game I’ve seen an Oilers team play in years. Maybe 2006, maybe before. Shot blocks by Holloway, a stretch pass for the ages by Bouchard, some big saves by Skinner.
The Glimmer Twins were all over this game, too. Connor McDavid had an assist, five shots, three hits, a takeaway, drew a penalty and won 10 of 12 in the dot. Leon Draisaitl had an assist, a blocked shot, and was part of one of the prettiest goals RNH has ever scored. This team is one of the great passing teams I’ve seen and that goal was sublime. Zach Hyman also had a helluva game, no points but five HDSC’s.
On defense, the Bouchard pass and the Broberg goal were the headliners, but Darnell Nurse’s 20:40 at even strength led the defense. He had a takeaway and four blocked shots. Brett Kulak is being asked to do a diffuclt thing and for me he’s doing it well. Mattias Ekholm remains a game-changer for this roster and Cody Ceci is performing better in depth time.
Stuart Skinner wasn’t hellabusy but made some fantastic stops. I don’t think he had a chance on the goal, helluva tip in front of the net. He stopped 19 of 20 (.950 save percentage).
NEW HIRE
Edmonton added Kalle Larsson to the hockey operations department as Senior Director of Player Development. He was president of hockey ops for the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the USHL, has an extended resume and my spies tell me he is a top drawer hire. We’ll talk more about this in the comings days, but this is a welcome piece of news.
New for The Athletic: Breaking down Evander Kane’s performance for the Oilers in 2024 playoffs
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5533931/2024/06/01/evander-kane-oilers-2024-playoffs-stats/
I’ve been saying for years that RNH would blossom ala Jacques Lemaire in his 30’s.
He learned early like most rookies that get injured badly after dazzling their way through a part of the league. He’s looked after himself and has now become a NHL wily veteran.
Oilers have the best powerplay and now the penalty killing from heaven and he features on both; while being currently top 5 in playoff scoring – all with a value contract.
While a longshot, what would get RNH into the HOF? Does a Stanley, 1000+ points, a Selke, and 1200+ games all with Edmonton, do it? This would put Nuge square in Guy Carbonneau territory, in fact his offensive side would be better if the trophy case is a bit more bare. Maybe the Oilers would need to go on a bit of a run in the latter part of his career, but I could see it.
I don’t see Nuge winning a Selke, as much as I respect his 2-way play.
Everything else just needs to happen so they give him one for the HOF portfolio.
The critiques of successful development outcomes with young players doesn’t make any sense. Bouchard’s development has been spectacularly successful. This is an objective fact. Arguing with someone who says it could have been better (how?) faster (based on zero evidence) or cheaper (not this year or next) is a mugs game. Holland’s model (like it or not) worked exceptionally well for this player.
The same might be said for Broburg next year. If he continues on track he will sign a very team friendly two year bridge contract this summer and might be in the top 4 next fall. He could even replace Nurse who we might be able to trade for a cheaper top 4 RHD. Lots of “mights” so let’s see. Most everyone says he developed a ton of confidence in the AHL this year, and by the look of the young man, he needed that.
Holloway is just ready now and he still makes a few critical mistakes, but on balance, he’s finally helping more than hurting. Skinner was developed properly in the AHL but rushed into a starter role. Looks like he might survive but it’s still dicey. McLeod could have used more AHL time to build his confidence and avoid these long scoring droughts.
The critiques should be leveled at the handling of prospects who failed. Yamo was brought in way too early. He needed time to build up a very small frame to survive in the NHL. He wasn’t give that with the inevitable results. Same with JP. Rushed in way too fast. Other guys just couldn’t overcome their issues like Benson (slow boots) or Lavoie (consistency). Letting a prospect over-ripe rarely hurts and often helps. Having patience with these young men and making them earn their spot on a veteran team is what winners do. Shoving kids into roles they can’t handle is what losers do (like the DoD Oilers).
I wanted to play Broberg because I wanted the OIlers to win. They likely need him this year to win the Cup. They likely needed sombody other than Ceci next to Nurse.
That has been my point all year.
And if Broberg were to fail you would be the loudest shouting another organizational failure of rushing players.
I gotta say, I love this blog and the qualitative vs quant give and take that we have. I love how almost all of us are a fan of the team and, in the end, we want glory for the good guys.
To be a fan of a team is to hope for their success. Imagine wanting to throw shade at other people’s hope and attempt to persuade them, often deviously and without good argument, that they shouldn’t have hope in the very place one would expect them to congregate. Imagine what an unhappy human being you’d need to be.
Do any of you do this? If you do, shame on you. If you don’t but you run regular apology for someone that does this, I implore you to evaluate just what kind of person regularly desires to mildly torment people they’ve never met. Our good member Side is excellent at regularly calling out blatant hypocrisy and lies. Cheers to you, Side. Keep it up, good sir.
Yeah. Some people sure do take pleasure in pretty strange things. It’s a real drag, honestly. But I guess sometimes coming together to oppose a shared villain brings us closer together!?
Anyways, WE ARE ONE WIN FROM THE FINALS, BABY!! WHAT A TIME TO BE AN OILERS FAN! LET’S GOOOOOO!!!!
Sometimes it seems like some people have no joy. As someone who has watched nearly every minute of Oilers hockey since HOPE, this is a remarkable feeling. To see a team this in sync is super cool.
Has been super fun enjoying this ride with y’all! CHEERS!
I find it interesting that nobody really talks about Nurse’s HORRENDOUS PDO. He has a 85.42 ONSV%.
Obviously, Nurse owns part of his PDO but a 0.919 is crazy bad. Some of his perceived struggles in the playoffs are just randomness of playoffs, right?
It was mentioned earlier but I am just catching up on my reading. Yes, cult of hockey had high danger shot slots Edmonton 1, Dallas 7
I thought Oilers owned the game but that little stat is concerning. Gotta clean that up.
That stat is BS, but if it keep the Oilers motivated, I’m ok with the reverse propaganda.
(Nuge had 2 HDSF, by definition, and McD and Hyman had 3 on one shift)
High danger 7-7, but 5 alarm 1-7
Panthers win…setting up a few days rest.
It was of no help to Dallas.
In fact the Sex Panthers are likely to lose their momentum, all while Matt Tkachuk has more time to ruminate over how Kane owned him the last series they played each other.
So rest up Panthers
Do you expect Dallas to roll over and play dead tomorrow?
Yes.
The proof is in your sudden Panthers love…
LOL you are such a loser.
Viewers can expect Kelly Hrudey’s insufferable fondness for his ex-Flames during SCF intermissions.
Oh, how I miss Ray Ferraro
Exactly what the Sportsnet troll does.
#spillies
He’ll be soiling himself gushing over the two cheap shot artists Bennett and Tkachuk.
Thanks for stating that, I’m not sure we would have figured that out without this super informative comment…
I’ve recently read some quasi-academic piece (link lost) that looks at statistical advantage associated with days of rest between games in the NHL (playoffs). The source explained that the “rest” advantage follows a curve, whereby the benefit recedes over time and actually costs a team at n+4ish days (“rusty factor). Don’t have the link anymore and do not know the level of rigour, but take it for what it’s worth.
How is this rest advantage measured?
Does it measure game 1 victories? Playoff series wins? Change in fancy stats as the series goes on and rust goes away?
But then how much gets attributed to rust, and how much gets attributed to the other team gaining some sort of edge as they play difficult late series games?
I would love to hear some thoughts on how, if any of you were to explore this, what would you look at?
I am going with chambers data, where by lots of cups have been won by teams who have had challenging series. GoOilers.
June 2025 is beyond your life expectancy, eh?
Okay, let’s do June 2024.
What say you?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4y1bFKW8OA
Matthew Tkachuk is the old man and the Oilers gotta teach em a lesson again in the SCF
Fla scores. 2-0 Panthers with 10 to go. Looking likely to be them in the final
Getting interesting!
Interesting. On X, plenty of people think that this was a “soft call.”
https://x.com/ProducerDrew_/status/1796720531326038403
thoughts?
two crosschecks, the second one in the ‘danger zone’ 2 feet from the boards. Normally an automatic call for boarding…
My thoughts? The refs often make a cumulative call for McDavid. He constantly recieves infractions, they don’t call them. Then they add up and he gets a call.
This infraction does not seem like much but #1. – it hurt based on reaction, and #2 there is no context leading up to the call.
Weak.
You could call that 20 times a game in the playoffs.
Go back and look at the Sequin dive that drew a embarrassing penalty in game 3.
Maybe, but Kane and Nurse both got called for less than that even. Its weird when the refs suddenly decide to call penalties…
Of course it was a soft call. Anyone chalking the win up to one call (when the series has been called generally in Dallas’ favor) is dealing with Vancouver Canucks fan level of ignorance
Is Edmonton’s 5v5 finishing getting better? Or are the the opposing goaltenders performing below expected?
Edmonton caught a break facing Silovs instead of Demko and Ottinger’s SV% has dropped approximately 3%; he’s saving below expected against Edmonton.
Edmonton’s shooting less and scoring less 5v5 than in the regular season. But SH% and Goals Above Expected are up.
2023-2024 regular season 5v5
CF60 64.78
FF60 46.65
SF60 32.87
GF60 2.9
XGF60 3.2
SH% 8.81
FSH% 6.21
CSH% 4.48
GSAX60 -0.3
2024 Playoffs 5v5
CF60 59.41
FF60 40.61
SF60 26.7
GF60 2.73
XGF60 2.49
SH% 10.21
FSH% 6.72
CSH% 4.60
GSAX60 0.24
What a horrible play by Trouba – Ceci or Nurse would be evicerated for that play.
Horrible play yes – but what exactly are the rules regarding high sticks on pucks? To my eye that play should have been blown down.
Probably was Nurse’s fault…..somehow…
It looks like the NBA final and the NHL final are running on consecutive nights. I don’t recall this ever happening. Gary’s dream has come true.
It was reported yesterday post-game that the coaches all feel that Broberg has come back from his last stint in Bako a completely different player. That he has taken a step forward.
If you agree, I think then we have to admit now that Knoblauch had the right read before Christmas… the kid needed a little more marination in a league where he could get the attention and TOI he needed, while allowing the Oil not to sacrifice points climbing out of the cellar in the name of development.
It certainly seems to be paying off in both terms. Oil made it into 2nd place, and other than a couple of hitches early in both games, Broberg looks wonderful out there
Other than some brief and rare interchanges with Godot, I haven’t commented on this item much as really what can be said till the issue finally plays out? But it appears that KK and the rest of the org think Godot (and LT) were wrong on their take and the Oilers and the player are now reaping the benefits of choosing the other path.
Again we don’t have access to another universe to prove which way would have been more successful, so I expect we will continue to talk past each other in regards to Bro’s development. And by “we,” I mean Godot here. 😉
But I think anyone would be hard-pressed to call the coach’s decision-making and the GM’s follow-through a failure. Clearly everything has worked out well. The only question is whether it was optimal and I could care less about splitting such relatively inconsequential hairs.
That would strike me as nothing more than attempts at argumentative “point scoring.”
Reasonable?
I find that this comment contradicts itself, uses an appeal to authority as proof of your take, tells two guys they were ‘completely wrong’ based on that, tries to preemptively shut down any responses, then throws a bit of the old hyper-bole in suggesting that anyone other than Godot calls the decision a failure, which I haven’t seen much of
It strikes me that your comment is exactly what the last sentence says
^This. You got it Slush.
Then I think you are mis-reading and I’m not sure why or how.
I’m only relaying what was reported, what the consequences of that reporting mean and then saying there’s no real way to know. But what we CAN say is that it DID work, just don’t know which way would’ve been better… and we will NEVER know.
But I expect some will continue to argue it despite that.
Kris came into a tough situation he needed time to get to know his players and what their pros and cons were. The playing of Vinny-kulak-Ceci all year and not giving a frustrated Broberg and his agent games may of simply came down to Kris wanting to keep the team chemistry with Vinny-Kulak-Ceci being a big part of it.
You know Broberg appeared to have a very good game what with scoring a goal and all but certainly we must have learned to not trust small sample sizes especially when adrenalin fuelled performance in the the playoffs.
In two playoff games this season:
5V5
FF 40.0%
SF 43.75%
xGF 28.67%
SCF 33.33%
HDCF 28.57%
PDO 1.143
https://www.naturalstattrick.com/playerreport.php?fromseason=20232024&thruseason=20232024&stype=3&sit=5v5&stdoi=oi&rate=n&v=p&playerid=8481598
Even a broken cock is right sometimes. Probably a little early to know for sure on Broberg.
Early signs looking good though.
Many of my body parts are not in optimum condition but my “manhood” is not among them.
Wasn’t referring to just one part of you.
Wait so two games and 26 minutes is not a small sample size? Huh?
It’s a tiny sample size.
Assuming you’re still talking about your “manhood”….?
That’s a separate issue, one that doesn’t seem to be in debate at the moment. Not that I’m surprised that the guy who liked Brogan Rafferty for the Norris would dispute most people’s thinking on Broberg…
HH, still riding with us, eh?
I’d love to make a wager with you. I bet the Oilers win the Cup in June 2025.
Here are the terms.
Immediately after they win, you will only post positive Oiler-related things. For each non-Oiler and each negative post, you will donate $50.00 to our kind host.
Do you accept?
What are your terms?
FYI, the above would be considered a negative Oilers post and would cost a $50 donation.
Pointing out reality is not negative…it just is.
That time frame is beyond my life expectancy.
Reminder: HH doesn’t pay his bets.
I tried to bet him on the “Stars-Canes final, BOOK IT!” and the terms were loser never shows his face here again. But of course he does not back up his talk. Given he does not pay up for lost wagers, he would just create another handle and never leave.
The Oilers broke the Stars last game.
https://www.defendingbigd.com/dallas-stars-afterwords-no-answers-edmonton-oilers-game-5/
Did they?
“:But overall in the series, the teams are essentially even when it comes to generating Grade A shot, 13.0 per game for the Oilers, 13.2 per game for the Stars. And if we look at the subset of 5-alarm shots, which go in on average about a third of the time, Dallas has had 7.0 per game, the Oilers just 5.2.”
https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/edmonton-oilers-with-plenty-to-worry-about-even-if-things-down-and-angry-in-dallas-stars-country
So you’re saying Skinner is better than Oettenger?
I think this is true
Broberg is playing with Ceci. Ceci depresses everyone’s stats.
Ceci cratered Nurse. And Ceci cratered Kulak. And they are proven NHL defensemen.
Look at Nurse and Kulak together without Ceci.
DSF. Still around. Unbelievable. Where does one broken, pathetic old man from Parksville get the stamina to troll Oilers fans?
He has played 26 minutes in the NHL this spring. Nice performance in a shirt stint, but let’s take off the road coloured glasses before we hand out a Jack Adams.
I’m not making any claims one way or another other than to say so far KK’s handling of Broberg has not failed or gone awry. Nor do I mention Jack Adams anywhere. AND I’m on record as one being careful of applauding KK. But I will give kudos where they are deserved. On this matter KK has not failed.
The claim I AM making is that we will never be able to determine which was the more optimal route… that prescribed by KK or that by Godot.
And that despite that inability, people will still try to argue the “un-proovable.” Perhaps even because it is un-proovable.
I understand what you mean.
Mine is you don’t go on a long trip without checking your spare.
Seeing a player succeed in the circumstances they they did serves only to prove wrong the arguement that they are unable to suceed in those circumstances.
It does nothing for the idea that there may have been better circumstances. I am not sure when would have been best, but am of the mind 5 or so games at the end would have been better than 2.
We do have lots of cases where getting guys in very early (one might say too early) has coincided with players washing out. Did it cause it? Who knows.
Unfortunately we can’t really control the variables, so its difficult (impossible?) To make a generalization either way.
We do know this: Broberg and Bouchard seemed to come out as players the way it happened, so it at least allowed for development. Was it 100 optimal development? How could one possibly know for sure?
This is where Munnys idea that its hard to argue against success plays out.
Now ive gone in a full circle, as this arguement does quite often.
I think you’re the only responder who has actually grasped the point (so far). Thank you.
Key point at the end.
I don’t even disagree with Munny‘s premise for the post but the argument that what unfolded is near optimized and that any argument of the contrary is pedantic really weakens the original position. The outcome can be explained in several ways so concluding one without excluding the others and calling the others unreasonable to consider is just not a strong point.
The entire subject is of optimization and marginal results based on nurturing a player in this way or that. Have things been handled well? Ideally? Poorly? It’s all splitting hairs. The thesis itself splits hairs, albeit with evidence, but a small body of evidence. Had Broberg gotten 15 games under his belt, perhaps the Oilers dispatch the Canucks in 5or6. Splitting hairs is what this blog is about.
There’s only one commenter that we need to hear from… Godot, primary Broberg believer and prognosticator. I can guess what his opinion is, I’ll await his reply.
Y’all are a funny bunch.
Broberg played a full two months last season on the 3rd pair with Bouchard, two months that saved the Oilers season. Bouchard’s game, after a horrific start, stabilized while playing with Broberg.
Bouchard sucked with Murray, and then sucked with Kulak. Only when Broberg showed up did Bouchard become Bouchard again.
After that two month stint as a full time 3rd pairing D in the NHL, Woodcroft made him the 7th defenseman at 6 minutes a night or pressboxed him the rest of the way.
And started this season the same way, even though he and Vinny were the only pair not to be minus in the season opening disaster against Vancoouver. And then it was back to six minutes a night or the pressbox.
Now everyone wants to forget those two months last season when Broberg clearly established himself as an NHL defensemen.
The Oilers probably would have won the Cup last year if they had used seven defensemen for six spots with load management, and doing the same this year, and allowed Broberg to prove that he was better than Ceci and Desharnais.
I kept my mouth shut last year, but after Ceci’s play likely caused the OIlers a Cup against Vegas, I was not going to keep my mouth shut this year.
I’m sticking to my position.
It was a reasonable call to send Broberg down.
Then after securing a playoff spot and analyzing their defenders , it would have been a reasonable call to prep their depth players for action, particularly Broberg.
Getting every player as ready as they can be includes things like resting injuries, resting veterans, getting guys going (Foegele) and of course getting the depth players integrated to the team.
Broberg looked excellent. He was put in after coaches felt his speed was the improvement. He was not put in for physical series like LA for a reason as well.
Will he go in for the next round? Depends on how his skill set fits the need.
Getting Foegele going? He spent the season riding Draisaitl.
Why are people downvoting this? So bizarre.
Some conclusions after reviewing the data:
A. Checking out the 5×5 GF/GA for individual players for the four teams left. What stands out is the Oilers have a high degree of variance, with players like McDavid and Bouchard killing it in the + and guys like Foegel and Ceci dragging it down. Stars, Florida, New York, for the most parts their players are more bunched together, not many outliers.
B. Of teams that have made it to the second round, the Oilers have the best special teams in modern history (since 05/06), with the top PP and PK, individually and combined.
Nouveau playbook being written by the oilers?
I hope not. As other discussions have been talking about here, a new direction in management hopefully shores up those outliers and gets this team to where it should be regarding that. No subpar players dragging the outrageous advantages they have down, and making things dicier than they need to be
This group should be where the old Oilers were at this point, losing games because they can’t stay focused or get bored because of whalloping teams so often and at will
To support this I point out that the underlying numbers suggest this, they are handily ahead of the bad guys in most games in most ways, even in the playoffs
Not to mention having ‘three’ all time scoring players now. And another bomber from the point landing. Just get the support up to snuff and watch out!
Ceci isn’t getting caved though. He’s been on-ice for just 2 GA in the past 9 (!) games.
Nurse is getting caved. And Ceci was stapled to Nurse until… 9 games ago.
So it turns out Stecher had a cyst that became infected. It cost a 4th round pick to get him. Not a lot, but I’m thinking if I’m trading for a player with an known ankle issue, kind of germane to the whole skating thing, I’m not paying even that much. Lots of 6/7 picks still left. How many picks have gone to deadline acquisitions that can’t play is it now?
The 4th we traded is a 2027 pick. We also received Arizona’s 2024 7th rounder.
Neither have a ton of value, but a 4th is more valuable than a 7th which has no value really. I don’t mind adding Stecher, just not hobbling Stecher. It makes no sense
That’s fair. I was just adding that it wasn’t JUST Stetcher. And for a win now team, the whole 2027 vs 2024 thing matters a bit. Even if a 7th is peanuts. Vincent Desharnais was a peanut.
Pretty big peanut
Don’t know a lot about Kalle Larsson, he left Sweden at 19 to pursue college hockey and has lived in the US since so sort of outside my swedish hockey radar. I’ve read the occasional article on him, he’s brought quite a few swedes to Dubuque over the years and when he was GM of the year in the USHL he got some press. From what I could dig he’s a real hockey nerd who’s worked his way up, loves spending time by the rink.
Read a long interview with a swedish hockey site from 2020 with a few interesting tidbits, apparently he played inline hockey with Don Granato when he moved to Chicago and Granato told him that he could have a career in hockey despite his lack of a pro career because his passion for the game was so strong and that comment gave him the confidence to go all in on hockey, the career he had mind before was as a diplomat, international relations, that kind of stuff.
Apparently he’d already had several offers from NHL clubs in 2020 but only wanted to take an NHL gig if it was an interesting job with a club and people he liked. Clearly the Oilers could offer that.
5 alarm chances 7-1 for the stars according to Staples. Is that what an elite goaltending performance looks like?
Is that what a complete performance, one of the best since 2006, looks like?
As precise as they were last night, for me the most dominant and structured game in memory is game 6 of the finals in 2006.
I was worried they’d peaked too early.
I hope to see this year’s Oilers find even another gear, and I actually think they have room yet to grow.
I remember that game vividly… and that the Hurricanes just went thru the motions after Pisani’s 1-0 goal, keeping their powder dry for G7, which sadly turned out to be the winning strategy. No such excuse for Dallas last night – Oilers just plain beat ’em.
Pisser’s OT goal in game 5 still remains one of my favourite Oilers goals of all time.
When you look at the OVER 30 years old players on both teams. The Oilers appear much fresher. Benn and Lindell have played very well so far. However Nuge, Ekholm, Hyman, Brown and Kane have been VERY good from this cohort.
For game 6 I would expect more from this Dallas group of players- or has long tournament taken it toll?
Oiler’s over 30
Carrick
Brown
Ryan
Henrique
Nuge
Hyman
Kane
Perry
Janmark
Ekholm
Ceci
Kulak
Picard
Stars over 30 years old
Benn
Dadonov
Duschene
Faska
Pavelski
Seguin
Smith
Lindell
Petrov
Suter
Tanev
Wedgewood
A lot of our over 30 group has had games off. In fact I think this may ne the model (only done proactively instead of reactively).
I wonder if a goalie should take of game 4 of every series, rotate the over 33 club so that everyone gets a rest day somewhere.
I dunno. It just seems that guys come back from the press box fresh and make an impact.
There was some opinions, well, one opinion, that the Oilers should have left Skinner back in Edmonton – save him from travelling back and forth – and played Pickard last night.
I won’t mock the opinion (as others did), I understand the premise, however, in reality, it would never have been considered.
Who knows what the conversation would be today if Picks got the start. Would the Oilers still have got the win? Maybe. Would Stu’s confidence be where it is this morning? Nope.
And if there had been an injury or sickness? I can’t see the coach being willing to expose himself to criticism for a loss that may have incurred by being forced to play Campbell because he left Skinner at home.
Campbell is an NHL goalie who put up arguably the best numbers in the AHL this season. Maybe the Oilers should have taken the train to Dallas because the plane might have crashed.
PS – watch the post-game interview with Skinner – he looks like he needs a month of sleep. They really need to finish DAL off tomorrow. Otter has played 18 straight and he’s cracking – I would not be surprised to see him shelled tomorrow – don’t want to same to happen to Skinner.
If you want to say “I told you so” then man up and talk to me directly. Second, get your facts right. The point I made was that if the team was considering giving Skinner a rest in G4 – he shouldn’t travel – no point. If they did fly him to Dallas then he needs to play because he is obviously a better goalie than Pickard. There is nothing crazy about that. You’re better than this childishness OP – it’s HH level trolling.
Hoping for a supernova evening from McDrai in game 6, say 5 points between them? We wait.
My thoughts on last nights game. Considering all the circumstances I agree LT that may be the best team win since 06.
I’ve been hard all playoffs on Skinner. But last night is what a number 1 does. Stop the ones you should and stop some you have no business stopping. He made a few unconscious saves.
I don’t buy into the mantra Broberg was put in an impossible situation. He’s played before in the NHL playoffs. Agree or disagree with spending the year in Bakersfield but it has served him well and he’s clearly ready now.
I agree with you on Skinner and Broberg.
I think when it comes to Broberg there are two ways of looking at “unfair”. Was it the right choice to put him in? Yes, absolutely. Should the team have played him in games down the stretch? Probably. Is he an NHL Player with 81 regular season and 10 playoff games? Yes. The only real “unfair” part from the outside feels like not playing him and then inserting him into round 3 of the playoffs expecting success. However, I believe that the coach and the organization know who they have. He’s played in many tournaments including the world juniors and he’s used to being thrown into the fire. I think it would have been unfair to not play him but I understand that wanting him to not be overwhelmed by the situation doesn’t necessarily mean thinking he can’t play at that level.
This team is much better than the 06 team. That team did get hot, but would not have made the playoffs in 2024 with only 95 points. They beat Detroit, who seemed like the best team in the NHL, so yes an amazing run, but this team is better. Its the 06 underdogs against the 24 top dogs.
Nugent-Hopkins – McDavid – Hyman
Smyth-Horcoff-Hemsky
McLeod – Draisaitl – Perry
Pisani-Peca-Torres
Kane – Henrique – Holloway
Dvorak-Stoll-Samsonov
Janmark – Carrick – Brown
Winchester-Murray-Harvey
Ekholm – Bouchard
Pronger-Spacek
Nurse – Kulak
Smith-Staios
Broberg/Des – Ceci
Bergeron- Tarnstrom
This team is the best team since either 1990, or earlier.
Also Darrl didn’t say best team as i thought he did. Best team win….
I don’t know if the “unfair” was/is the right word but it was a very tough situation for Broberg as he hadn’t played a single game in well over a month and hadn’t played an NHL games since April 18 (and only two since early in the season).
Broberg’s biggest issue at the NHL level had been the game coming too fast for him – he was fine defensively but wasn’t able to make plays and use his top assets to move the puck quickly on retrieval.
With game speed being a historical issue, I thought it was a very tough position coming in to WCF playoff game having not played at all in over a month and only 2 NHL games in the last 5-6 months.
He’s fit in like he’s in a mid-season rhythm and that is exceptional.
That was my point to some extent. He was put in as 3rd pairing not asked to be a 25 minute down shut down guy. He was a high pick and it’s obvious the team knew what they had. They put him in a position to succeed not fail.
Noticed Dallas didn’t use the mid-range flip out and cherry picker tactic. They played a very conventional game. Their goalie was a lot more exposed to slot shots than other games. I think the cherry picker comes with a cost that once countered, isn’t worth not having the extra winger on D. Another effort like that and we’re in the final.
Although they are so good at that flip. They had a pretty solid chance on a well placed flip into our zone.
They were using it a lot early on but the Oilers were getting back and ready for it. I forget which intermission (maybe the 2nd) but the TNT crew was saying that Dallas needed to play more connected and come out of their zone with speed given how much slower they looked.
We’re getting to that point of the series where there are no more surprises.
Also, who knew (except LT) that Ziggy is canine Stan Weir?
David Bowie only got the role of Tesla in the Prestige because Ziggy passed on it.
It’s not over yet, but the Power Wins project (I remind everyone it isn’t my idea, I just always missed it as I thought it is so informative in a unique way) predicted this direction in the series
Reg season the Oilers had 27 PW (33%), the Stars 21 (26%), a 22% difference. This shows that the Oilers were a more dominant team over the season, and factoring in the Horrorstart, even more impressive. Best of the WC playoff teams
As the series goes on – and again it’s not over – and the teams hone in on each other more and more, the Oilers last two wins were Power Wins. Fantastic
And talking about fantastic, I don’t care if Bro isn’t a caveman back there, what a talented hockey player. Fast, big, lots of talent. My kind of player. Add some agro and a perfect player type. Holy Smokes. Somebody lost a job last night
Remind me, power wins are by 2+ goals discounting those damnable empty netters that mess everything up?
You got it.
Yessir
Fingerspitzengefühl
‘Swedish’ gave us the word many months ago, and nailed it
“Fingerspitzengefühl [ˈfɪŋɐˌʃpɪtsənɡəˌfyːl] is a German term, literally meaning “finger tips feeling” and meaning intuitive flair or instinct”. A German word for the coach with the German name. He’s a beauty
Can’t say enough about the temporary D coach either. He and Stuart revolutionized that D group. These little details matter a lot, a good coach isn’t necessarily the right coach. These are the right coaches, win or lose this series. I hope if Coffey goes upstairs Stuart can carry it forward
The pressure the new Coaching staff came under from the trolls and the Woody Cult was monumental. Dare I say if we win the Cup this will be the most satisfying one since the 1st one.
I won’t disagree but would throw the 1990 cup into the mix
I soaked that 1990 one in because I knew it was over and would be the last one for awhile ( Ranford pulling a Hasek) 33 years is long enough we’re not Calgary or Vancouver “ We are Edmonton”
I find it amazing how hard some folks want to stick to things so hard in very challenging and fluid environment like hockey. What is good in one stretch may not be good later
As Mr Woody, after the playoffs it was pretty clear to a lot of us it wasn’t going to work. Stubborn as a Flattop, and for me the door flinging hands on hips thing so many liked, I thought was too cocky by a bit. I don’t think it’s ever a good thing, but maybe if it was after you just won the Cup
Also maybe some smartest man in the room syndrome, trying to play chess with players as pieces. Knobby clearly knows the players play the games and gets things in place to give them the best chance. At the highest level X’s and O’s aren’t usually the difference, it’s people skills that make a bigger difference, getting the most out of what the GM gives you
I already have faith in the hirings Jackson has made in conjunction with Holland who deserves respect. Jackson is not undermining Holland but clearly we are going in a different more proactive direction when it comes to our farm system and trades. Buckle up after we slug it out with Tkachuk-Bennett things are going to get interesting in Oilerville.
Agreed, proactive is a great thing. I have been surprised at how lax some things have been, definitely not apropos for a professional sports team in 2024 – it’s not 2008. Even then not a good thing. The not having an OHL scout still baffles me, probably the nail that cost Wright his gig, as Johnston scores on us repeatedly
He’ll be the Captain in a few years. Dallas has a real gem for the next 15 years.
Knobby’s German surname translates to garlic. A vegetable which has many powerful properties, including warding off the evil Dallas Draculas who’ve feasted on Oilers teams for millennia.
Awesome
It’s frustrating sometimes when you see Nurse play like he did last night. I thought he had a great game. Very physical and playing much more agressive. This is the Nurse this teams needs to show up EVERY night. Plus I didn’t notice ONE icing from him!!
The single most important move Holland made imo was the trade for EK. Every time he is on the ice I just feel confident the puck will go in the right direction. He is the Pronger for me in these playoff’s.
I have never seen Skinner so dialed in as he was in the third. We win the cup if he keeps that up.
So far imo Boosh is the Conn Smythe winner if we make it to the promised land.
Pretty proud of Broberg. Put into an impossible situation and he is really holding his own. Having another 5-tool dynamic dman in the lineup makes a huge difference.
Oilers actually have championship level depth this year. Remember when Nurse played 60 minutes in a game?
Yes I do. nurse played 62:07 in Game 4 at Winnipeg, the 3OT loss. 2nd most by any player in the TOI era behind only Seth Jones’ 65:03 in a 5OT game.
Flew back to Edmonton where his kid was born the next day.
Will you have Wheeler on to discuss? He seems to endorse.
Lots of good endorsements on twitter but I found Stauffer’s response interesting. He had no idea it was coming and said he knew nothing about the guy – almost seemed a little put off about it. I wonder if his “info” is a little less from Jackson than Holland????
Grain of salt but when scouring for some info on Larsson came across a post on ol’ HF where they stated they personally know two players who have been thru the Fighting Saints’ system and that Larsson is apparently regarded as an absolute genius with mgmt and development.
I wonder if this is another Jackson hire similar to KK where his past player experience has yielded very strong positive impressions so he pounces first chance he can.
I strongly suspect you are right and we’re seeing a real “changing of the guard” in Edmonton. When Jackson and Holland couldn’t come up with the same story in a press conference, I think we really started to see that Jackson is taking this team where he wants it to go and Ken “could be going to Columbus” Holland is already out with his successor likely already chosen.
The guard changed when Jackson was hired. Just letting Holland’s contract expire and then we’ll see a fair bit of change I expect
It stopped the likely conclusion that Holland would anoint his son successor and create a banana republic kind of thing. Now if Brad gets it, it would have to be on merit. That kind of stuff is never a good thing, if being the best you can be matters
I submit DoD as evidence, every move an insider move. Even Pete was, Burgers loving the Team Canada anything, zero to no due diligence. Thanks goodness we didn’t end up with Babs bcs rep
IF the Oil win the Cup Holland will be offered a one year extension imo.
Can’t disagree with this one.
Wed night was a “52 minutes effort” but this was was essentially a “full-60”. No, they didn’t dominate all night but they controlled the game from the opening puck drop through the final buzzer,
Yes, Dallas pushed in the 3rd and they got some legit chances but Skinner did his job and, really, it was a chance here or there – it was never a tire fire and it was never Dallas coming in waves. The Oilers had push back and plenty of possession as well. I felt calm all evening after the 2nd goal including after the Stars got their goal.
Great effort.
Championship level play.
The fresh legs of Broberg and Carrick before he got injured and also Perry were noticeable. Lots of players skating in quicksand this is a hard series travel wise this deep in the playoffs.
If you were not on edge the last 6 minutes when Dallas was shooting from the slot, you have Bouchard level poise.
I had very little concern down the stretch of last night’s game. You (including your previous posts) are making in sound like the Oilers were under siege in the third and I don’t agree with that at all.
Like Bouchard, I knew it was in the bag 😉
srsly tho: disaster did not feel immanent. even had DAL potted a second.
Saw a Stars fans comment after the game last night that I thought was good:
“At least the Stars will be rested for game 6 compared to the Oilers who played 2 games already this week”
Also a lot of posts from the Stars fans along the lines of:
“Bench Pavelski”
“And who is going to replace him?”
I guess that Dallas depth has dried up.
I’m surprised they haven’t given him a game off. Lots of miles on a player that was always a mediocre skater at best
He’s a leader no way Wyatt tips that shot without his mentor Pavelski teaching him. Coffey had this hidden gem fingered for us but methinks Coffey and Holland-Wright don’t hang in the same circles.
That comment by the Stars fan is funny
I’ve been watching bits and pieces of the ECF but more of a “just have it on” type of thing. I’m not getting ahead of myself but I am very much looking forward to watching that game tonight. Might as well have it go 7, right?
I would much much rather FLA won tonight 8-1 or something similar
Why?
Go 7 with 4 periods of OT,,,,
Game 5 of the Western Conference Final, on the road, winner goes up 3-2 and we watch things like:
Of course the likes of McDavid, Drai, Bouch, Hyman and Nuge did their thing but there were ALOT of contributions from the secondary and depth players.
I agree with all. Would restste… Kane played a fantastic game defensively. Best i have ever seen by him. Couple of grade a chances never came to fruition because of his play.
Nice mention both of Kane. He’s been solid without being spectacular and that’s what ever body out there needs to be when not lighting the lamp.
Massive, massive credit to not just Coach KK but the entire org for being so open-minded with roster deployment. Top 6 spot for Holloway. Scratching Perry (when his boots couldn’t keep up with Vancouver’s), then bringing him back in for top 6 duty. The McLeod reset — which I didn’t like at the time. The rotating 4th line. A gutsy Broberg move. Bravo to all.
And how about that little tidbit from the broadcast? Draisaitl asking Coach KK to put McLeod on his line to get him going. Made me think of that clip on twitter last year, when Puljujarvi was struggling, Draisaitl staying on after practice to feed him some pucks for one-timers. What a terrific teammate he is, in addition to being a world-class talent. He truly is the King of Men. And a good one!
That’s not even counting the gutsiest move, 2 Pickard starts in round 2.
Chiarelli was a clown, on that we all agree.
But i might personally deliver a dozen roses to him just for that Draisaitl contract
I still salivate over the possibilities of having Boeser/Ek, Connor, and DeBrincat.
If any one of those guys were drafted, it likely changes so much going forward and this team likely looks nothing like it does today – start with removing Hyman, at least.
Obviously.
sigh:
itbeinggreatvaluetodaydoesnotmeanitwasntabovemarketatthetimebutwevealreadytalkedthatthroughathousandtimesandreallyyoujusthavetogoogleWillissargumentsaboutitforreference.
yup
And for tanking for Connor and the lottery win.
Such a great post Bling.
Not many give the coaches, GM or organization enough, or any, credit even in the face of “crow.”
Wait, a second, I must have missed that – is that a fact?
It was said during the broadcast. I forget by who.
The funnest part of the game — like life — is when people surprise you.
I’ve long been a Broberg fan, but when he jumped down to hammer a one-timer at 92 MPH (the one that missed the net, before the goal), I thought to myself, “What in the hell was that?”
I’ve read so much about Broberg over the years, and I’ve watched clips, and I’ve never seen or heard anything written about his shot.
And then you file it away, to muse upon at a later date, and not moments later he hammers one top corner. Fun!
Kinda reminds you of a young Mathias Ekholm. Fingers crossed
Yeah, my eyes popped at that first slapper, & my ears did too when it hit the boards.
That was an awesome game.
Let’s dissect a little. Skinner saved the day. Dallas had enough grade A chances in the last 10 minutes to tie the game. If that happens (of course it didn’t) but what a different conversation.
I still wonder why after owning the game so many times, they drop their guard trying to hold on for the win. similar in Vancouver.
Did Dallas “take over?” Or did the Oilers back off and allow that pressure? It’s strange.
One of Oilers only weaknesses now, the sudden swing in momentum, subtle change in play, particularly when trying to hold the lead.
As it turned out last night, Dallas tried everything and came up short. They have no answer.
As Draisaitl said, there are no bad teams left in the playoffs.
The expectation to go through the third period without surrendering any good scoring chances is not a reasonable one.
Dallas is an excellent team and they needed that win just as much as the Oilers — they were going to earn some decent looks.
But as others have already pointed out, Dallas never came in waves, and the chances they did get were all stoppable save for the one extraordinary tip that went in.
And that is a reasonable expectation — even from a championship caliber team.
Of course it’s reasonable the other team will pressure.
What I’m talking about is the ongoing theme of collapsing and giving up a lead once the team (oilers)goes away from their offensive game and focus on defensive play to hold a lead.
See LA, Vancouver, and Dallas. It’s been a thing. Last night was a good result, but it was close, those were grade AA chances that Skinner managed to thwart.
I prefer not to jump blame after a loss but rather to discuss things after a win.
So is it a theme that has now been excercised? Or still something of a worry?
To me I have not seen the horrible play as some put onto individual players. But I have seen this defensive collapse play out several times leading to loss of a game. It remains the teams biggest weakness in my opinion.
I will follow Connors lead and not get too high nor low, but this is something of a concern as they get the last 5 wins.
I didn’t see the team giving up a leap and collapsing and changing their game. They defended well against an elite and desperate team that was pressing all while pressing themselves in a controlled and low-risk way, no?
With respect, I don’t really agree with this analysis of the third period.
100% it was Dallas’ best period and they did get a number of quality looks early in the period.
At the same time, I don’t agree that they “took over” and I don’t agree that the Oilers sat back.
The Stars pushed and they were able to create but they certainly never took over the game, they never caved the Oilers in for multiple shift and the Oilers had their fair share of possession time and chances.
Even after the goal against, the Oilers pressed in the offensive zone the next two shifts, no?
It is awesome to bask in the glory of a win. It would be foolish not to recognize that we were fraction of an inch away from a collapse.
Be honest. Those were Skinners best saves of the post season. They were as good as you get. Now he did indeed save them, so who cares?
A smart coach cares. They can still recognize danger that was averted and still recognize areas that need work. Just because you get a win doesn’t mean you ignore learning.
Without those critical saves, it’s an absolute disaster blog today. Dallas didn’t own the period, they made a push, as did Vancouver. It often can result in momentum change and a collapse.
it’s no coincidence that there is a saying “no Oilers lead is safe”
Anyway, it’s just a talking point and I’m not really that interested in pressing. It is a time for enthusiasm so all is good.
I don’t agree with the assessment that they were only an inch away from collapse. Skinner was very good – he made some strong saves and controlled rebound but I don’t think he was standing on his head that period and negated a deserved comeback. I think the Oilers had just as much towards Otter as the other way around and, in fact, for what its worth, NST has the Oilers with more expected goal in the 3rd period than the Stars.
I don’t think the Oilers “hung on” and were on the verge of collapse.
It seems we clearly disagree on how that third being played out – and that’s fine.
Senior Director of Player Development:
“In his role with Edmonton, Larsson will collaborate and consult with senior management and coaches for both the Oilers and AHL’s Bakersfield Condors in order to formulate and implement comprehensive individual development plans for each player in the organization.
He will also be responsible for overseeing and managing all areas of development for Oilers draft selections as well as signed prospects within the organization.”
Often in the AHL there is a tension between winning and developing. Obviously you’d like to do both but sometimes they are at odds with each other. It needs to be clearly defined and communicated which is #1.
If winning is the #1 priority for the coaching staff and management down there and they are allowed to make their own decisions then they may decide to play a 29 year old who is currently a better player in important situations and on specialty teams.
Whereas if development is #1 the coach lives with the growing pains involved in playing young players.
My hope is that this hire will add more weight to the development side of things of the equation in Bako.
They deserve credit for developing some defencemen over the years and for prepping Broberg and Holloway recently. However I believe that the handling of some of the young forwards leaves a lot of room for improvement.
Good post.
Agreed all points
https://imgur.com/a/gHze3f0
I hope this works.
Going back to yesterday’s thread about the Islanders, I hated those guys. But years later when I was at Goldman we had a golf tournament every summer and the partner who ran the group was friends with Clark Gillies. Every year I would get to spend two hours in a corner talking to Gillies about those series. We had so much fun, great guy from Moose Jaw. While one year he showed up with the card in the picture, signed “To Dean. Sorry about ’83. All the best, Clark Gillies”. How could I not like the guy, he was a gem.
Very cool.
Good to hear from you. So I was pricing things out the other day. It is cheaper to fly to Florida, stay at the Hard Rock Hotel, and have good tickets to see the finals than it is to take the Metro North into NYC and go to MSG. Friggin’ crazy. But if the Oilers make it to the finals, I will be going! You want to swing by your old hunting grounds for some games!
Have to use the image link MAH, like so…
I put a link and it works for me but it was my first time! Probably screwed up!
It’s all good. You used the link for the web page rather than the image itself. Every image on the net has it’s own URL. If you right click on the pic on that web page, it will give you the option to “Copy Image Link”. That’s the URL you want.
Thanks. I learned something today!
60 minutes on the road. Three straight games getting three or more past Oettinger, Stu with back to back Big games after that odd game winner.
That was satisfying.
Three Oilers on pace for Top Five playoff points scoring years of all time for their positions. Zach in impressive company goal scoring wise.
Such a lucky fanbase we are.
Going to be a fun one in Etown on Sunday night.
Skinner’s goals against since returning to the crease for Game 6 vs. VAN:
1, 2, 2, 2, 4, 2, 1
5-2, 1.92, .908
Might expect a higher Sv% but Oilers have allowed just 22 shots per game over that span.
I’ve watched every playoff game this year until last night when cross-country travel disrupted my viewing plans. From LTs write up and the comments it sounds like the boys played their best game in the McDrai era. To help the cause I will watch no more games this run and hope the boys go undefeated the rest of the way.
Due respect, dont be foolish.
They won 10 games with you watching. enjoy the ride.
I second Bruce’s recommendation, you bought your tix for this Oilercoaster ride, why would you want to get off of it? Hop back on and buckle up!
That ping and in on Nuge’s second goal was so so satisfying
Oettinger was cheating blocker side, I think, because RNH and low blocker rhyme. Nuge saw it and delivered a laser making the pipe chime.
I was listening on the radio last night and that ping sound on Nuge’s goal was an awesome thing.
Hank on TNT was suggesting the cheating to one side is something that Otter has been known to do.
Sunday is going to be absolutely insane.
I am so calm this morning, knowing that Draisaitl’s forgotten comment from yesterday rang true “Our best best their best”.
So I will dream about the future.
A non-retread GM equipped for the modern game.
A hockey (versus financial) trade: Ceci + Bourgault for Armia + Barron
Resign the RFA’s
Sign UFA’s Desharnais, Henrique, Brown and Janmark
Figure out a long term solution for Drai and Bouchard – such talent does not come along that often – so hold on as long as you can.
If we win the cup, you dont trade Ceci. You will have proven you can win with him.
I don’t see how it’s optional. Him or Kulak will have to go. Too many mouths to feed. Don’t have to be happy about it.
I think it has to be both, replaced by a 2RD and Broberg.
Although i do like them both.
Not a chance Kulak is going anywhere all things considered.
If you could win a 400M race with 5lb weights on your ankles, would you do it again because you won? Or take them off and do even better?
If we win the Cup, Ceci will be more tradeable.
Yup, he’ll be worth a lot more than Joel Armia.
Yes, everyone will be. Drai is going to get us Tavares!
Broumeesterberg earned a 2024-25 roster spot last night ❤️
I have long proposed a Jay B. stylistic comp for Broberg.
Low expectation: Bouwmeester
Hope expectation: Niedermayer
I hope you’re right!
Jay B. played 1240 regular season games in the nhl and has some 40 plus point seasons……
Yep. I am pretty optimistic even in the worst case.
The five best D are in the lineup, and four of them are in the top 4. At last. At long last.
Credit Knoblauch for making the decision that Woodcroft failed to make last year.
It would have been nice for Broberg to have more regular season reps under his belt.
Looks like you were right. What will you talk about now? 😉
Actually if Broberg succeeds now Godot will be wrong. Correct me if I’m wrong , but wasn’t his whole Shtick was Broberg needs to play NHL games so he’ll be ready when needed in the playoffs.
On the plus side, at least they are getting a fully rested and healthy Broberg for the playoffs. Who knows what could have happened if he played more regular season games injury wise.
Broberg has a hard shot, are we gonna have a Brobomb to go with our Bouchbomb?
It all started with the Klefbomb.
Earmuffs LT… I’m going to ‘write whatever the f*ck I want’ today… that post game interview got ugly quick.
What a great game by the Nuge, and an incredible save on the PK by… SKINNER!
Godot, I’d like to know your thoughts on Broberg being inserted into the lineup…
Great f*cking win boys!
Pdb was not a happy man. He lost it on that one reporter… who.. wasnt really that offside honestly.
It was fine. He was defending his guys.
In my mind DeBoer is one of the most animated coaches in the league. He wears his heart on his sleeve and if you look at his face during a game you can tell how his team is doing.
Pretty much the entire game his brow was furrowed. And his complexion got redder as the third period came to a close.
I don’t revel in anyone’s pain, but I can’t help but notice. I recall during the 2017 run when he elbow smashed the glass in E-Town because his team was behind and a fan must have really been getting on his nerves.
That display was as shocking to me, as it was hilarious. So his eff bomb doesn’t surprise me.
https://hockeystatcards.com/impact
We’re gonna need a bigger scorecard
The Oilercoaster ride, if you’ve purchased a ticket, do not get off this thing. It is real and it is spectacular 😁😁😁
Said last night after the game I think that’s the best game I’ve ever seen Skinner play (especially given the circumstances).
Almost felt bad for Duchenne for getting called out by commentators for not blocking Brobergs shot. A team has 6 shots on goal through two periods and you’re blaming one guy?
Yes, that was harsh – Broberg couldn’t have been considered a threat and that shot was seeing-eye. But we’ve been on the other side of scapegoating when the whole team is just plain outplayed.
I take the opposite view in that it’s nice to hear some analysis that actually has something to it and Bieksa did say he wasn’t trying to pick on him, but rather make the point of it gets tiring (and sore) blocking shots. Very few Tanev’s out there who keep eating pucks and come back for more.