In March of 1970, Neil Young and his band Crazy Horse played the Fillmore East. The band featured Danny Whitten, who would pass away in 1972 and become the centerpiece of Young’s writing for a time (Tonight’s the Night album). The band also featured legendary artist Jack Nitzsche, formerly of Phil Spector’s wall of sound.
The album is ground zero for the sound Young created with Crazy Horse. It led to some fantastic recordings over the decades, for me the peak songs (Danger Bird, Cortez the Killer, Like a Hurricane, Powderfinger, Over and Over, Big Time, others) are the best rock and roll full stop.
The Fillmore album is a favorite, because the band is so loose. The best example is Winterlong (here). It’s a majestic record, out of control rock and roll. I’m not absolutely certain the entire band was conscious for the entire tune. The guitars sound so good, but Neil’s solo is fantastically flawed and the end sounds like Young wants to just the whole thing down and can’t find a better way than crashing the projects.
Music! Beautiful!
Last night’s game featured what might be Connor McDavid’s most iconic goal when all is said and done. The man is impossible and inevitable. How in h-e-double-hockey-sticks can a man literally stickhandle in a phone booth to get through the 6’s and 7’s and 9’s and then cash? Sweet baby Jesus what a goal.
The game was not a masterpiece and the Oilers got owned at five-on-five. The shots, by period, were 9-1, 9-5 and 10-2 Dallas. Holy crap! Stuart Skinner’s five-on-five save percentage (.964) and overall SP (.971) were pristine, reflecting a stellar performance from a man who has been through some things over the last two seasons. A great result for the young goaltender. In fairness to the team, high danger said hello less often than the numbers imply.
Philip Broberg played well to my eye and has earned more time if there’s a God in heaven. I’m just so damn happy for the guy, he played so well in Bakersfield and earned a promotion. It came late, too late, but the young man stepped in and has been a big help. Fantastic. I’m so happy for him, and hope it means he’ll hang around for a day or a decade starting this fall.
In the moments after a victory like this one, the mind races for ways to explain the moment. I have learned in my time writing about this team that it takes one or two heartbeats to set things in their proper place. It’s like buying a new ornament (as if I’ve ever bought a new damn ornament) for the living room and placing it here or there to find the right spot. Once that spot is found, it becomes settled law. That’s the place it belongs.
I can’t tell you where this victory belongs in the ‘greatest games ever played by Edmonton’ but it will rank higher in the ‘most important games ever played by the Oilers’ and that’s a fact. At some point, victory is the only thing.
I wonder about plenty this morning. Does Kris Knoblauch tinker with the pairings? Not Mattias Ekholm-Evan Bouchard surely, despite the GA last night (there was at least one player swimming to the stand up bar on that one). Nurse’s best partner in some time appears to be Brett Kulak, but he’s swimming too a little, no doubt getting used to being the mirror man in a world where they don’t exist much anymore.
I’m well pleased for all involved. I have an article coming out later this morning at The Athletic, I hope you’ll read it because for me this is the time to reflect on team building and all of the contributions along the way. The journey is not yet complete, but in the words of the great poet and philosopher Conway Twitty, this team has never been this far before. It’s right and normal to celebrate this moment in time. It represents a peak period in team history, and you can see Stanley from here.
A wild and busy show on the Lowdown today, Sports 1440, beginning at noon. Guests include Rachel Doerrie from Staff & Graph podcast, Dave Jamieson from Edmonton Elks and Jason Gregor from Oilers Nation and JG Show. We’ll chat about the big game last night, what it means, and the way forward. We’ll also talk about a big season for the Elks, which gets underway right away. You can reach me at Lowetide on twitter, in the comments section or on the Sports 1440 text line at 1.833.401.1440 directly. Question: Would you like to see an updated 2024 Lowetide draft list later this week?
New for The Athletic: The Oilers’ unsung heroes? Credit amateur scouts for part in playoff success
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5535156/2024/06/03/oilers-scouts-draft-picks-stanley-cup/
KK is the coolest NHL coach I’ve ever witnessed. He’s Sather 2.0
KK is the anti-Lowe+MacT.
Nah, MacT is a pretty cool guy
Fo all of the bullshido about which team should win…the clear choice 99% of the time is Edmonton.
Connor McDavid I trust to do whatever it takes to win the Stanley Cup in 2024. Anyone who under the age of 12 puts a hole in his dad’s garage wall has developed the intensity to achieve anything. And sidekick Neon Leon stands shoulder to shoulder next to him.
If anyone of you is a betting type – bet on the Oilers to win the series. After game 1 they’re likely to have their odds drop off, Kilimanjaro style. I would bet my own money but instead think sports betting is for posers and the rich. I am neither.
Dear Oilers:
Congrats for reaching the Finals. Like as with Dallas the consensus appears the same – that you guys won’t stand much of a chance versus the depth and aggression of the Florida Panthers.
Therefore please come out swinging or very close to it even better at the start of Game One. Don’t allow the pissy Panthers to play their big bad eastern Conference style.
Instead, lol, give them the same treatment as you just handed Dallas – by the end you had reduced the Western favourites to mush.
PS: To ZH – way to go but you will really have to start scoring quick if you want to join the valhalla of Oilers playoff performers.
PPS: To Darnell Nurse – The only way for you to stay on this team past your no trade clause is to start hitting and bullying the Panthers.
A distant 5th on his team in points, Zach Hyman is 5 off the all-time single season playoff goal record.
LT channeling the past in more ways than one. This record was released in the winter of 2006, a post run reward.
Whitten and Young are on different planets, yet some lines are tight enough to almost chorus.
Talbot and Molina are tight as ever. Those two never played a second out of synch. None of it locks to grid, but it’s tight. They warble out of time, together.
Nitzsche disappears into the wall of guitars. Very difficult to extract the auditory stream. But if he stops playing you’d notice. Go figure. Sounds like Wurly to me.
Lots of talk about Cortez the Killer. Brilliant tone painting on the many version of that tune using the Whizzer, really brilliant and innovative and adds to the haunting.
One thing about Neil Young’s live guitar tone: it’s a sound that has never fully been captured by recording technology and never will be.
Philmore East, produced by Rothchild who worked with the Doors, CSNY, Joplin, Butterfeild.
Whatever you do, please start writing on this blog as much as you can possibly write. You’re the best writer around these parts since that last one…something darkness or whatever.
I appears Like Gazdik’s career as an analyst Sportsnet may be a short one as he has been slagging the Canucks and their fans relentlessly on social media.
Smart like moose.
@NavDosanjh198
Hey Sportsnet
You guys gonna allow an analyst @lukegazdic
insult an entire city and province? I’d be careful if I were you. Wouldn’t want one of ur biggest markets boycott you. Very easy these days to get the American feed.
Luke will be fine. Canucks twitter shouldn’t dish it if they can’t take it.
Already going national.
https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/vancouver-canucks/latest-news/former-fringe-nhler-calls-out-canucks-fans-2024
Pretty sure the Sportsnet honchos won’t be thrilled with one of their employees trashing the second biggest TV market in Canada.
Going National! Lol! Someone alert Peter Mansbridge.
Yeah they can’t take it.
I didn’t care for Luke before this, but I’m his newest, biggest fan.
There are millions of reasons to hate the Vancouver Canucks and most of them live in Vancouver.
He should watch the American feed he’ll see a panel of hockey fans who like exciting hockey and don’t condescend constantly. They love the Oilers over on TNT and ESPN. American media has given way more credit and shown much more excitement for the Oiler run than Sportsnet. Actually it would probably inflame Canuck jealous to turn over to the American broadcasts.
Speaking generally as I’m sure there must be a reasonable one or two of them: Canucks fans are the absolute worst. They are a joke, they are losers. They cast in bronze their most desperate and pathetic moment and celebrate it. They have no pride in themselves so they need to switch their identity every generation. They are chasing a non existent past. They have no glory, they have no memory. They are hurting badly because this lack of success in both Vancouver and Toronto manifests as entitlement. These fan bases think shots at the cup ought to rotate around the league and when theirs comes up it should be a free pass. (I actually think the fever might be breaking in Toronto from Marner frustration, they are waking up. But Vancouver is entering the doomed cycle, “Go Petey, Go!”) That’s not how it works but they don’t know because they’ve never won so they don’t know what it takes.
All season right until game 7 they thought Vancouver was a better team and I would argue that series wasn’t close at all. Close on goals and games? Sure. But when it really mattered, with 4:30 left in game 7 and they needed a shot, Edmonton DUSTED that pathetic organization.
Fook yeah!
Cheers!
So sorry about your Dallas Stars.
Oilers reduced the pre-series favourites to too young and too old hockey players each in their own way unable to cope with the onslaught the Edmonton team handed them.
I know I’m glad my team is lead by Connor and not Tkaturtle. I want to see them lay heavy pressure on the kittens and watch them fall apart
Tketchup
Awesome
Chucky is already in everyone’s head…EXACTLY what he wants.
In any event, this series is going to be McDavid vs. Barkov.
Not much else will matter except perhaps goaltending.
I think it is more likely to turn on Luostarinen Lundell and Tarasenko vs. Holloway Henrique and whoever plays with them (Kane/Foegele/Perry).
Why?
I’m not seeing it at all.
He will be remembered as a pioneer of chewing his mouth guard instead of actually using it.
What an inspiration that has been, unfortunately.
Was just thinking of that last night as McDavid does the same.
That’s a thumbs up except for my thumbs
That’s about 100% off base
I imagine MT is having imaginations if getting his manhood back while also going sleepless
The Tkachuks don’t think that way.
All asshole all the time.
Just like dear old Dad.
Remember when the Oilers beat Tkachuk so bad he left Calgary?
Truth
You’re awfully fiesty after the Oilers beat your 3 favourite teams and made you lose a bet.
Would you like some Tkechup to go with your chirps?
Tale of the tape
Panthers Inches/Weight
RW 66/205 (the beef is all Tank and Okposo 2 slow trains)
LW 74/189
C 74 200
RD 74 201
LD 74 190
G 76/214
Forward
AV Height 71.5
AV Weight 197.8 (replace Tank and Oks with 205lb guys and it’s down to 195.3)
Defense
AV Height 73.8
AV Weight 195.7
Team
Av Height 73
Av Weight 199.7
Canadian Content – 7
Oilers
RW 72-198
LW 74/202
C 74/198
RD 76/209
LD 76/211
G 75/218
Forward
AV Height 73.1
AV Weight 199.3
Defense
AV Height 76
AV Weight 210
Team
AV Height 74.3
AV Weight 206
Canadian Content 15
The Panthers are a surprisingly small team given their rep (tall but light overall), Lighter than the Stars. Only 3 top 9 over 200 and that includes Tank who ain’t what he used to be. Their D group are a fair bit lighter than the Oilers forwards who have quite a few guys over 200lbs
Given the lighter nature of the Panthers, they will skate hard I imagine, it’s usually easier for lighter rather than heavier forwards. I would leave Bro in because Vinny won’t be catching many of these guys for hits so not as helpful. Maybe except Tank and Oks
Bro in makes it
AV D Height 75.3
AV D Weight 204.3
AV Team Height 74.1
AV Team Weight 204.1
So now I wonder how Maurice approaches this. They aren’t going to hit the Oilers out of games like the Rangers, and would take the worst of it. They are a snarly bunch, but don’t have the same level of mean that the Oilers potentially do in Nurse Perry Kane Des. I doubt anyone even tries with Ek, he’s a horse
Very interesting. Amazing their D only has 1 guy over 200. 4 guys 6’2 and under. Kulak is our shortest at 6’2. That sure is opposite George on the narrative the last few years. Like a holiday after what the guys have seen in terms of D size and nasty, other than Dallas I suppose
We played the Jets before under Maurice.
His strategy was to have his team commit a very high number of infractions relying on the fact that refs will only call a small percentage of them.
I remember guys were doing football tackles against Connor.
That was the series IIRC Connor McDavid did not draw a single penalty despite an incredible number of fouls committed against him.
It will be interesting how this series is officiated.
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2612733/2021/05/25/luszczyszyn-nhl-playoff-officiating-is-an-embarrassment-weve-accepted-for-too-long/
It will. I’m not sure Maurice has the horses to get too far into it. Lomberg is an animal but he’s small and I think hurt
Omg you reminded me how frustrating that series was. I’ve been so enamored with Maurice’s hilariously blunt interviews these playoffs. I completely forgot how much I hated his dirty coaching. There will be some hard to watch moments in this final.
The Turtle will Turtle, Bennet will Bennet, Cousins will Cousin.
Look for lots of crap after whistles, Goalie runs, Turtle mugs.
Oiler skill players will be hooked and held and tripped.
No one will ever hit Tkachuk, cause no one ever does.
Hoping Perry and Kane push his face into the glass and keep it there. Once he gets his bell run a few times he goes quiet, but no one ever does. I think players are scared of how slippery he is and don’t want to miss on the hit.
First few games the Oil will not score a lot as they figure out Bobo. I have confidence the boys will figure him out.
My biggest fear is a repeat of 2006 and hope like heck that Skinner doesn’t get taken out.
Holland has upped the physicality of this team and some skill may end up sitting if it gets rough.
The reason I looked into it was this
They are fiesty but small. A non starter for them taking it into the gutter with the bigger and tougher Oilers
Evander Kane says hello.
When I count Canadians on Panthers roster it is 11. Is the four difference due to injury, taxi squad?
Based on who has been playing recently by Capfriendly and DailyFaceoff
Allowing one Matthew Tkachuk to lift the cup against or especially in Edmonton is absolutely non tenable
I sure hope Kane is in the hyperbaric chamber.
I was thinking the same . Get 3 please
Makes me want to barf
The Panthers have scored 7 empty net goals, the Oilers just two.
Edmonton is 23-13 in the first period, Florida is 10-13. Leading after 1: EDM 8 times, FLA 5.
Edmonton is 26-14 in the second period, Florida is 19-13. Leading after 2: EDM 12 times, Florida 7.
Excluding EN goals, Edmonton is 12-18 in the third period, Florida is 19-12.
The Panthers like to give up early leads then come back in the second and third, while the Oilers like to get early leads and then sit back in the third. Should be interesting!
Kind of like Dallas, hang around and don’t quit. Need to up that killer instinct in the 3rd
“And he says you’ve been a naughty boy Clement. And I say my name’s not Clement, so he splits me nostrils, saws me leg off, and pulls out me liver”
And now what you’ve all been waiting for ……. Panthers Power Wins (small explosion)
They were hot until March 12 when things cooled off for them. After that 7W/9L, 47GF 44GA +3
Since Nov 13 KK era, Power Wins 2+ goals, no EN. Clear Losses vice versa
Kittens (the Royale ones) 68GP Oilers in brackets 69GP
Power Wins – 21 (27)
1G Wins – 19 (17)
OT Wins – 5 (8)
SO Wins – 3 (2)
Clear Losses – 10 (10)
1G Losses – 13 (12)
OT Losses – 3 (4)
SO Losses – 2 (1)
Goal Diff – 67 (69)
PDO – 1.008 (1.014)
SV% – .932 (.921)
HDSV% – .852 (.824)
SH% – 7.64 (9.35)
HDSH% – 13.95 (20.26)
CF% – 55.91 (54.78)
HDCF% – 53.06 (58.75)
FF% – 53.63 (54.64)
GF% – 56.95 (59.17)
HDGF% – 48.65 (62.43)
xGF% – 54.66 (56.86)
Panthers 31% PW, Oilers 39% a 21% difference. I thought about adding them but I’m not sure if playoff numbers are as indicative because it’s series against only 3 teams, and I think that probably skews numbers depending on how teams match up and how injured they are
What does it mean? It looks like the Oilers have a disadvantage in net again, we’ll see how each tender plays, both are prone to good play and wobble
They both went .500 the last 20 games. Panthers a little higher in CF% and a fair bit lower in HDCF%. Another team that shoots but doesn’t necessarily look for quality first
If you had to choose based on these numbers, adding in the Oilers’ big advantage in special teams, you’d choose Oilers I think. Also the Panthers style ‘should’ mean more PPs. These teams are pretty close but the Oilers carry a lot of advantages. Health is a big factor, I’m not sure the Panthers are as beat up as the Oilers
The Panthers are rumoured a good defensive team, they have 34 GA so far. The Oilers 28. This matches what I’ve watched with the Ranger series at least, it wasn’t as locked down as ours have been. I think keeping pressure on them like in the good games played will expose their tendency to play less consistently. This season is the first they have been more stable, but you can say that about us
Have to play the games still and it’s only 7 games at most
I should have said And now for something completely different, but it isn’t really
Dinsdale!!
Pirhanha
Saw Neil Young & Crazy Horse at Northlands in 91. He played Cortez the Killer , Powderfinger , Like a Hurricane and an epic performance of Rockin in the Free World amongst many others.
I remember us leaving thinking he wasn’t great on guitar and his vocals weren’t great and the sound seemed off but what a god damn unbelievable concert. He truly is a legend.
Caught him in Calgary and Edmonton on that Tour, he played Calgary first.
Got mugged by security at the Saddledome cause I was wearing a Gretzky(Kings) Jersey. I was still pissed at Pocklington cause of the trade.
Went to our seats and 2 folks were sitting in them, and security wouldn’t do anything to get them to move, even when we showed our tickets. We were with a large group, and one of the Calgarians told them “MOVE NOW” and both squatters just ignored him. Dude proceeds to punch the girl in the stomach and she drops instantly. Boyfriend/Husband doesn’t say a word, just carries her off.
I didn’t know the guy, he was a friend of a friend. I’d have had some respect for him if he punched the guy at least.
Neil didn’t say two words during the entire concerts, and the music was great. It was not a quiet concert. Lots of loud guitars and feedback. Maybe being in the 7th row made it sound louder. F*ckin Up and Cortez the Killer were the highlights for me.
Head back home to Edmonton, scored some free tickets and decided to go again, sat in Blues, was nice for a different perspective.
Group of hippies was in front of us and I told them they wouldn’t enjoy the concert much cause it was going to be LOUD, they looked at me and declared they were the biggest fans and how dare I insinuate they wouldn’t like it. Think they lasted about 3 songs and left holding their hands over their ears.
Neil and the Horse attended an Oilers game, forget if it was the night before or after. It was during playoffs.
Still a little chuffed he cancelled the Edmonton date during this summer’s tour. Not sure I want to journey to Calgary again to see them again, but Down By the River is in the set and he didn’t play it then.
I checked out the Flames subreddit last night after the game. Some good natured belly aching about the Oil winning:
https://postimg.cc/NygF3DYb
Its occurred to me that its June 3 and the Oilers might be playing until June 24 and we are talking literally a couple of days to the draft and a week until free agency.
Maybe this has already been all settled and they are waiting until after the playoffs for announcements but, presumably, whoever is the GM is, well, you know preparing like now, right?
It’s a very salient point
Fortunately we fans have been given the rare opportunity of being one of the final teams in all of the 32 team NHL. Unimportant things like free agency are for the rest of the herd, lol
I disagree but that’s OK.
Skinner basically had the real life version of a 12 year old goalie’s pond hockey fantasy.
I was literally googling how many penalties the Panthers take before the Campbell trophy showed up. Second most in regular season, most in postseason. And I feel like that’s a roster that will be out of sorts if it’s constantly focused on staying out of the box.
Truculence and intimidation IS their game!
Send them a tape of McDavid’s goal last night.
Against the top powerplay in NHL history.
Good luck with that, sunshine and sand apes.
Holland on Kyper and Bourne a moment ago- just the high level notes, they talked for about 15 mins
-thrilled to be in the Stanley Cup final but know there is a big challenge ahead and excited for the opportunity
-feel real fortunate to get by Dallas a tremendous hockey team and my good friend Jim Nill
-lead by Connor and Leon and Stu Skinner was massive last night in winning a close out game
-great job by Kris Knoblauch in moving people in and out of the lineup
-both teams motivated after disappointments last year
-you have to play game 1 and see what each team has and then make adjustments from there
-TV dicatates the 6 day break and NBA starts on Thursday (when asked about the late start)
-fly on Thursday and Friday busy with media
Thanks, Gerta. That likely means Holland will also be on Oilers Now later today.
Does Foegele get back in for the finals? Perry is a great story and has contributed (albeit very slightly), but speed is so critical in these games.
I’d go with Carrick and Foggy over Ryan and Perry at this point.
Ryan over Carrick for me, with a break for Ryan in the middle, if needed.
The Oilers may be forced back to Foegele with Kane’s injury.
Might need the more physical player this series
I posted this last night that Kane was all smiles in the group photo at Centre ice. This is a good sign for me that’ll he’ll be good to go Saturday.
Agreed…was thinking the same thing. I love Perry but the pace of play is too fast….depends on injury to Kane I suppose.
Perry is a warrior and skilled as well if healthy we need his smarts and physicality. Warren is obviously in the doghouse. Hopefully if he gets reinstated he uses his speed ups his battle level and quits the constant drive bys.
It’s blowing assignments
To my eye (so grain of salt), Perry made a difference in the d-zone. That hasn’t been Foegele’s strong suit lately, so maybe not a switch for game 1.
Who the f made the finals schedule??? It is going to be hard to get in rhythm with so many breaks.
It is the longest travel distance in NHL history. Two days for travel is a good idea.
Lost in all of this is the balls the Oilers organization had to fire Woodcroft and bring in Knoblauch. I mean what organization does that to a coach who only one season before leads them to the conference finals. What a ride.
Vegas.
There’s no greater “What have you done for me lately?” business than sports.
I believe it was 2nd round
Colorado in the WCF in 2022 and 2nd Round last year vs Vegas. IIRC
After watching highlights over highlights… I am sure this was Dallas watching McDavid score the first goal. https://i.giphy.com/3oz8xZvvOZRmKay4xy.webp
I watch every oilers game but seldom do I watch any other games. I only see Florida when they play the oilers. Other than reading opinions here I have absolutely zero idea what to expect. Do they play wide open? Or dull defensive hockey? Do they rely on Bob? Should it be high scoring? Game 1 will be interesting.
https://x.com/seanpangs/status/1797490309938684236
One of the most important moves the Oilers have made.
Thanks for that, was wondering who Skinner gave such a huge hug to.
Wow… missed this….thanks
Skinners performance the last few games reminded me of Tom Barrasso when he was in the zone with the Penguins in 1991-92.
After the Finals are over for the draft article, please and thank you. Keep the eye on the prize.
It’s not over yet, but congratulations to the players, coaches and management. They all deserve credit for reaching the Finals. The stars are being stars. The young players are showing success and contributing to wins. Finally we can say the youngsters are being brought along properly, even if they faced some adversity. And the unsung heroes are all doing their parts. Congrats to all and I can’t wait for Saturday! (wish they would move Gm1 to Thursday).
I think, “Let’s Go Oilers”, was sung throughout the whole of the 2nd period
There was some opinions re: starting Pickard for that third straight game against Vancouver. I think most were of the opinion that going back to Skinner was the “right” decision but it was far from black and white and likely not a no-brainer.
As it turns out, another major great decision from the Coach.
I’m not sure he knew that Skinner would give a better performance than Pickard in game 6 against Vancouver but I think he knew with certainty that, if this team was going to win the cup, it would be with Stuart Skinner back in net.
At the time, I thought Skinner for Vancouver Game 6 was a defensible call.
At the time, I would have gone with Pickard for Game 4 against Dallas. Obviously Knoblauch made the right call to stick with the Principal over the Captain.
Also great to see Pickard come out and hug Skinner after each win.
Pickard is such a great teammate. I hope he and Stu are the team’s tandem for a couple more years.
Oilers are showing that they can win different ways, but it can sure be stressful when they go into a prevent defence. E.g. the 1-0 game vs. LA (outshot 33-13), Game 7 vs. Vancouver (where a 3-0 lead turned into a 3-2 win in the 3rd) and games 5 and 6 (especially) vs. Dallas. I know I can’t complain when they win and they’re playing against excellent teams, but would be nice to have some more comfortable wins with more offensive firepower in the 3rd period.
Sitting back against Cats won’t work. You need to pressure them because they will break down
Agreed. Fortunate to be at the game with my 14 year old son. Electric atmosphere and a night he will never forget but would have been even more enjoyable had dad not been on edge for the entire 3rd period! Never been a fan of the “prevent” defense but even more annoying in person with a Birds Eye view of everyone backing off.
Broberg has good acceleration while carrying the puck. Super useful. There was a play last night in his own zone, with the team under pressure, he got the puck and in a couple of strides gained separation from the pressure. Very pleasant to watch.
He has BOTH a speed and a reach advantage
Broberg vindicates everything Ken Holland ever did as an Edmonton general manager.
This is obviously more of a prediction.
Florida is an aggressive team, back to like the LA Dys series I would imagine. We lost both games this season but it was before Christmas
They are tight defensively like the Oilers are – sometimes. They have less skill than Dallas and Vancouver, and Bob is playing well but he’s not Shesterkin
Their game is in coming all game every game at you with energy, and being physical. They have some finish, but it’s more about the other
The coin flip with the break is whether Connor and Leon can get significantly healthier. If they can, advantage Oilers. If not, who knows. If the Oilers can bring their A game – lots of attack and defending – it’s theirs I think. If they want to stop attacking and sit back or come out with no legs, they will have to be as lucky as last night
I know they get a extra day of rest when travelling the 4000 plus Km journey but as the deeper this Series goes on I wonder if this benefits Edmonton as they are used to more travel.
I would think so. And they Oilers aren’t a bunch of mentally delicate flowers like Turtle
I hope Carrick is healthy and plays. I never knew much about this player but he plays smart and could bait Tkachuk are that human missile asshat Bennett into doing something stupid.
There are parts of the FLA roster that do resemble VAN. Big defense, hard to get around which makes it harder to cycle. But you have to try.
NY settled for lot’s of shots from the point because they were unable to break Florida down off the rush. It was as if they didn’t even try but would go in deep along the boards, send to the point and throw it on net. Here’s where in the DAL series I thought we had games we did a very good job cycling and wearing their defense down. Have to do it more.
The Rangers didn’t want to go to the hard areas, they let the Panthers push them out
We won’t let them, but also can’t do ‘the shell’
The Kane flips Turtle over thing will be interesting
I’d also posit that the Cats have been playing flawed teams these playoffs.
1) Tampa Bay was a full on Disaster sans Kucherov at EV this season. Maybe with a healthy Sergachev its different but they’ve bled a lot of forward depth and Stamkos plays defense like Ovi on his worst days.
2) Boston were very efficient losers in the regular season and their goalie duo papered over what was a significantly weaker roster. Had TO’s number but not the horses to push deeper.
3) The Rags shouldn’t have had the record they did. This one is tougher to explain but I oddly watch a lot of Rangers hockey. This team was older, slower and way less the sum of its parts despite the record they had. They managed to outscore Shesterkin’s wobble in the first 2/3 of the season and he bailed them out down the stretch once they started sagging. They got absolutely worked two series in a row as their most skilled guys are older now and they did a horrible job at breaking in their 1st overalls.
The Cats have lots of skilled players but their goal scorers are quite streaky. I’m also not sure that Barkov isn’t dealing with an injury. If I told you he’s given up more than he’s scored at EV these playoffs would you believe it?
Thanks for this. I heard said that the Oilers had the easier opponents on the way to the SCF on TSN (I think) and a few other spots. I chuckled.
IMO: LA ~ TB (sans Sergachev), Van (sans Demko) < Bos, Dal >> NYR.
Not giving the Oilers credit for dispatching a very good Dal team is a journalistic crime. Still, being the underdog has a convenience – less pressure.
I think the road start is an advantage as well. Way less pressure involved with the feeling out first game as Holland says
The goal is a split so losing the first game and adjusting is expected. Win and the hammer is down on them
Interesting. Outside of a couple of guys they are more a greasy team than skill type scoring
However boxing out is not a strong suit of our D, and they will be in there. I hope Kane is good enough, his presence will make more of a difference in this series than the others. Even down the line up he can make things ‘real’ for their bottom 6 ruffians
Apologies but Oilers defence appears to be 2-3 inches taller than Florida’s mighty mites.
For those hoping the Oilers will grab Tulsky out of Carolina, Friedman had his 32 thoughts where he says Jarmo Kekäläinen is a real contender for the GM job.
Also says Carolina’s GM will “not have the final say” and that the role is to facilitate, gather info, and bring it to the other members of the front office.
The GM role in Carolina is similar to how Knobby runs his coaching staff. Each person owns their role, he brings ideas to everyone (12+ people he said for Bro in lineup) and facilitates rather than being judge jury and executioner.
Seems like both have worked to a degree, not having 1 guy be the man behind the wheel is just a different way to do things; not necessarily wrong.
I’m not sure there are many leaders that make sole decisions, even if they don’t ask 12 people. Which can also lead to paralysis of analysis
To me in sports I want the coach to be inclusive but know his players and what he sees as best, KK is still learning about the players that haven’t played much
Man they recycle people fast. Not sure K has a very good track record
Because Columbus is such a powerhouse, and that PLD draft pick?
Mmmkay, then.
Oilers need to interview Tulsky and see his plan.
Then interview every other viable candidate and compare.
Keep hearing (and reading) that because FLA played in the SCF last year that their experience etc, etc, etc will have them hoisting the cup because losing two in a row just does not happen a lot.
Well, since the lock out (2004 – 2005), NO team has lost two in a row. Talk about small sample size – the only team to lose then make it back was PIT in ’08 and ’09. PIT won in 2009 4-3 over DET showing how close it was (2-1 in Game 7).
In the 18 cups since the lockout, there have been 12 winners who did not even make the final in the previous 5 years!
Oilers in 4 (will adjust IF required).
If experience was a guarantee on advancing, then Dallas would have advanced past the Oilers into the finals.
And Pete Deboer would have made the finals many years ago.
The last back to back losers were the Bruins in 77 & 78 but realistically only Pittsburgh in 08 & 09 and the Oilers in 83 & 84 have lost then won in that period. Tampa won 2 in a row before losing the 3rd finals to Colorado and their group of first timers. The Oilers also have 6 regular players who have played in a Stanley Cup final before.
I know I rarely post, but I’ve been here since before the news Pronger was coming to Edmonton dropped in the middle on the night on HFBoards. I was there through all Lowetides posting hoping for propects.
Through Sebastien Bissailon…. to Toby Pederson on the PP…. to Gagner, Cogliano, OSullivan and Nielson being the ones to save us….uh nope, lets try HOPE…..uh, lets try one more time….to Connor….to its 1 for 1….to crack pot trades from Chiarelli….coach after coach……losing to Colorado….losing to Vegas….ok, this is the year……WTF 2-5-1….what is happening….The win streak….SCF
Last night when that buzzer sounded I didn’t even realize the emotions I was holding inside me, I didn’t yell, I didn’t scream….I cried. I had no idea that was even inside me and I keep tearing up today when I think about it.
We have been through SO much, just enjoy what we have this next month.
“the brief but terrifying Sebastien Bisaillon era”
A gem from McCurdy.
https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/edmonton-oilers-0-kings-2-maybe-they-need-hollywood-in-the-playoffs-im-not-sure
I think that article triggered my PDoDSD (Post Decade of Darkness Stress Disorder)
Arguably the debated worst contract by Holland in Connor Brown is playing unbelievable these playoffs. On the ice for the last minute made 2 huge plays to clear the puck. Probably justified that bonus for next year in that minute.
I wouldn’t go near as far as ‘unbelievable’, but he is certainly playing well. As he should. His established level was always pretty good – that’s why they got him.
For a 4th line player with Janmark and killing penalties I stand by my statement of unbelievable.
According to NST’s expected goals, we deserved to win Game 2, Game 4, and Game 5. Game 1 and Game 3 were tossups. (We obviously deserved to lose Game 6.)
If you take deserved wins in Game 2/4/5, and split wins with Dallas in Game 1/3, that’s a deserved 4-1 series victory, and Game 6 doesn’t even have to happen.
That’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it….
The Oilers themselves, on the other hand?
I hope they realize they got a sh*t-kicking in Game 6, and they head to Sunrise resolved to be much, much better in Game 1 there.
Now do rounds one and two 😀
Just an outstanding game from Skinner…..we needed a steal and he delivered.
I know you cannot dismiss what Florida has done. Back to back appearances in the Finals.
Their forwards scare me much more than Dallas – especially on the PP.
But, OEL and Kulikov on the 3rd pairing?
Man, OEL looked grotesquely slow in Vancouver a couple years ago.
On paper, that pairing should be exposed.
Yet, looking at their playoff numbers they are – more- than holding their own…..
Yes please to your updated Draft List.
There are lots of in-between days here to fit in before show starts.
Wheeler just published his list today.
It’s 100 deep.
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5521848/2024/06/03/2024-nhl-draft-rankings-top-100-prospects/
The Hockey Gods were with us last night after many long years of torment. At least now we don’t have to hear the love life story of Tanev anymore. Now its time to take down the weasel Tkachuk and head hunter Bennett.
Man, is this ever true. It felt like luck (and the refs) were against us in 2017 (Anaheim), 2020 (Chicago), 2021 (Winnipeg), 2022 (LA), 2023 (LA and Vegas).
The playoffs are a very mysterious thing. For years, that mystery kept one of the best 1-2 combos in NHL history from playoff success.
For once, for one game, lady luck smiled on us. For at least one game, it felt like destiny was with us, rather than against us.
Plus by getting more rotation the rest aren’t passengers any more as they bought in to the new system.
The Archibald 5 minute major where he dropped the big yard-ape Stanley like a sack of hammers who’s 60 pounds lighter should of won a Academy Award. This is the 1st Playoff where we’re able to respond to the way other teams are playing without the ticky-tack calls being tilted against us.
Cam Wright re-signs with the Condors for one year – AHL contract.
He’s trending towards a potential NHL deal at some point.
Little disappointing all the verbal about Florida is essentially the same as the Dallas series.
Deeper team, better goalie, stronger defensively, really good PK will shut down the stars.
-PK didn’t let a goal in for a whole series against said deep team.
-Goalie has officially stolen a game (series clinching critical game).
-Top pairing is statistically the best of the remaining teams.
-Mcdavid made one of (if not THE) best actual defending defenceman in Heiskanen look ordinary more than once. Tanev, while hobbled, got caved more than once.
Barkov and co will absolutely be a challenge, they are full value and then some. So was Dallas.
Lazy copy paste narratives.
Even pre-hobbling, Tanev was exposed by the Oilers a few times.
Happiest Oilers must be Skinner and Broberg. Skinner has been great and slayed a few dragons while a week ago Broberg might have thought he may never play a game for the Oilers again. As much as I liked Vinny he was targeted by the opposition. Now Broberg is giving the Oilers mostly mistake free hockey. I saw him tie up his man like a pretzel when the puck went the point a few times. Beautiful stuff.
I may have aged a decade in one night. I might have to go Into the Wild for the next couple of weeks and people can just tell me what happened when I get back.
Are we celebrating the pennant!?
Win or lose, can the Oilers get back here next year? It seems like the major cap troubles don’t hit until both the Draisaitl (McJesus willing) and Bouchard extensions kick in, and that’s not until the 2025-26 season.
It’s not that bad. They can easily make room Draisaitl and Bouchard. They will be a top heavy team but that’s the way it goes with the top 2 players in the world and a star defenceman.
As long as they don’t make any dumb signing (big if), the path is there.
The cap is only an issue if you can’t handle it
You can paint yourself into a corner
Or you can dump gallons of paint on the floor
Not the same
2025-26 will be a tough one for salaries, but I also think the team’s cap woes are a tad overstated.
Draisaitl and Bouchard are due raises in 2025-26… also happening in 25-26: James Neal’s buyout finally comes off the books, and Brown’s bonus penalty also comes off the books. The Oilers cap will be rising $5.5 million more than other teams’ and a projected $9.5 million more than the previous season.
We’ll have a clearer picture in July of this year when we see what the 2024-25 contract situation looks like, but I’m not quaking in my boots just yet.
Anyway, the most important thing right now is to enjoy the moment! I think I’m going to put off this thinking until after Stanley has been awarded!
Hey LT – just a quick hello and congrats on this season. Seems like yesterday we were over at hfboards wondering who the hell is Jesse Niinimaki, whether JDD or Dubnyk could play, what was Slava Trukhno’s ceiling, or which of Petry, Wild or Chorney would make it. This summer and the next one are uncertain – so enjoy the next week like there’s no tomorrow.
Don’t forget all the Dragan memes, and trying to figure out if that big Russian kid was actually blind or not!
Oh man forgot all about Umicevic and Mikhnov. Had a glance at a few of the old prospects and didn’t realize how long some of them played in Europe. Semenov played pro all the way until 2021, Heinrich played 3 years in Asiago (the fighting cheeseheads?), and Reisen played in the Swiss league for over a decade. Those were wild successes compared to some of the goalies we drafted from the war room in Cabo: Jeremy Jablonsi, Patrick Dovigi, Kristian Antila. Too funny.
Ceci lead all defenceman in TOI last night. Put your hand up if you saw that coming.
The Oilers got owned on the shot-clock and by every possession metric.
Perhaps the coaching staff sees Ceci as a suppressor of high-danger chances in the defensive zone because that’s the only zone he seems to play in.
That’s pretty harsh.
I guess some credit is never due.
Precisely. Ceci has been on ice for exactly two 5v5 goals over the past 10 games, or just 0.70 GA/60. That’s easily best on the team (and in the league) over that span, and its a lot of bending-but-not-breaking.
And you’re mostly right about the zone starts, Knoblauch clearly tilts Bouchard’s starts to the offensive zone and Ceci’s to the neutral zone. As he should (except for game 7 situations, lol). The Nurse pairing has received the most D-zone starts.
And it almost cost the Oilers the game.
Incredible display of balance and skill by the best skater I’ve ever seen play hockey.
If it wasn’t a sure thing already, I think last night’s win guarantees that Draisaitl will soon sign an extension.
I don’t think anything is guaranteed on this but history tells us that a re-sign is the most likeliest outcome.
My son told me this morning (via text as he does not live in the City of Champions anymore):
‘I have literally never seen us go this far in my living memory’
Well, I was 21 when the boys won in ’84 which is the same age he is now. Therefore, the Oilers will win as my son is now 21. Symmetry
I was also 21 for the first Stanley. And Buddy’s Little Girl (also watching from afar) is in her 21st year.
So I would say the auspices have been taken, and pronounced favourable.
It is obviously a lock then – BOOK IT!
12 stickers on the door 4 to go