Blackhawks Division Likely To Change

With the move from Atlanta to Winnipeg, it looks like the NHL divisions will look a little different starting in 2012. According to this article the three most likely teams to move East to make room for the Jets in the West are Detroit, Columbus and Nashville. This make sense as these are the three most eastern West conference teams and they all play in the Eastern Time Zone.

All three of these teams are in the Blackhawks division, so it appears change is on the horizon for them.

The Current Central Division is

Chicago
Columbus
Detroit
Nashville
St Louis

Personally, I think the following scenario makes the most sense. Winnipeg moves from the Southeast to the Northwest (to join with the 3 other Canadian teams in the Western Conference), Minnesota moves from the NW to the Central and Nashville moves from the central to the the Southeast.

Three moves that make geographic sense, and don't mess up too many teams. Saying that, I've already heard rumors that Colorado could be going to the pacific and Dallas could join the central. I hear if Detroit moves East, then the Penguins would move to the southeast. Then you start thinking of the different scenarios and your head hurts.

Bottom line is, the Central will not have the same teams in 2011-12 as they will in the 2012-13 season.

Ranking Host Cities for the Next Winter Classic

SI.com’s Dan Shaughnessy wrote an article today saying the NHL should get rid of the Winter Classic. I do agree this year’s game was unfortunate with the rain, but the Winter Classic is a great idea and should be continued. Now that this year’s game is over, it’s time to start thinking of future sites. Below is my rankings for possible sites of next year’s (and future years) Winter Classic.

First off, I want to spread around who gets to play in the Winter Classic. So sorry Montreal, Edmonton, Chicago, Detroit, Buffalo, Pittsburg, Washington, Boston and Philadelphia. If you played in the game before, then you are out of consideration (Montreal played Edmonton in the 2003 Heritage Classic which was the predecessor to the Winter Classic). The next issue becomes warm weather cities? I am not suggesting the game be played outside in the 70s (although apparently they have the technology for this) but what about teams with Dome’s nearby? The Stars playing in Cowboy Stadium sounds cool, but what about the Lightning in Tropicana Field (Rays)? I decided since Detroit hosted the Frozen Four in a dome to include domes. I know this will lose some of the appeal of having the game played in cold and snow and my ratings will reflect that.

Ohio Stadium (Columbus):

My number one choice would be to see a hockey game played in the Horseshoe. The Blue Jackets have had a great following since they arrived in Columbus and I could see 100,000 people coming out to see them play in the cities most beloved stadium. Just last month, Michigan played Michigan State in the Big House which was a huge success. So we know the game could work in a large college stadium. The issue I see though is the success of the team. They have only made it to the playoffs once (lost in Round 1) and do not have many household names. The NHL wants to promote this event and needs stars or good teams to do that.

Rogers Center (Toronto):


Obviously the Roof of the Stadium would be open for this. Toronto is a hockey crazed town and they would embrace this game. The stadium has already hosted games for North America’s 3 other major sports (MLB, NFL/CFL and NBA) so getting Hockey would be a nice way to round it off. Toronto is Canada’s biggest city and the Maple Leafs are Canada’s favorite team. Maple Leafs are an original 6 team. I see no reason why this game wouldn’t work.


BC Place (Vancouver):














Vancouver has been lobbying to get the Winter Classic played there. We know the city is capable of handling big events after hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics. The game being played inside the inflatable dome wouldn’t be as exciting but getting the game into Canada for the first time would be a plus.


Cowboy Stadium (Dallas):


Jerry Jones has wasted no time getting large events to come to his palace of a stadium. Cowboys stadium has been open for just two years already will have hosted the Super Bowl, NBA All-Star game and annually hosts the Cotton Bowl and a College Football Kickoff game. The stadium can host big events and would have enough time between the Hockey Game and the Cotton Bowl (played on January 7th this year).


McMahon Stadium (Calgary):


McMahon Stadium is home the CFL’s Calgary Stampeders and is located on the University of Calgary. Even though it only holds approximately 46,000 (with temporary seating) it is Canada’s 5th largest stadium. The stadium has hosted the Largest Grey Cup game ever (2009) so should be more then capable of hosting an event like the Winter Classic.

Target Field (Minneapolis/St Paul):














Target Field is the new home of Minnesota Twins. Getting Minnesota the Winter Classic would be great and hosting it either in Target Field or TCF Bank Stadium (University of Minnesota Football) would work. I picked Target Field because it was designed better to handle the cold then TCF was as we found out this NFL season.


Yankee Stadium (New York):

I was thinking this would be one of the top choices for next year. It’s North America’s biggest market, home of an Original 6 team playing in a brand new stadium. However, until they move the day the Pinstripe Bowl is played, there won’t be time to set up the field for another game. So would they move it to the New Meadowlands or Citi Field? I don’t think so, I think the NHL would prefer Yankee Stadium. Until they move the date of the bowl game or the Winter Classic, Yankee Stadium will be low on this list.


University of Phoenix Stadium (Glendale/Phoenix):



The University of Phoenix Stadium has hosted a Super Bowl and a NCAA National Championship games. It has also hosted Wrestlemania proving it can be used for more than just Football games. Having hockey’s biggest regular season event played in the dessert would be a little odd. Also, there is a chance the Coyotes could move back to Winnipeg. If they move back, then they can play in the CFL’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers new stadium expected to be complete in 2012

Frank Clair Stadium (Ottawa):


Frank Clair Stadium is the former home of the CFL’s Ottawa Rough Riders, Ottawa Renegades and most likely home for an expansion Ottawa team in 2013. The stadium only seats 26,000 which is only five thousand more than Montreal’s regular stadium.

Tropicana Field (St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay) :














I am as a big of a fan of this stadium as you will find. But I do not see this as a likely place for the game. The main reason is the Lightning played in the stadium regularly from 1993-1996 (see picture) which would eliminate the novelty of the event. The stadium does have the NHL Attendance with approximately 28,000.

NHL's Worst Shootouts

Best Move of the Stanley Cup Finals So Far

This just makes me smile.

I Finally Found a Reason to Watch Hockey!

As a Chicagoan, it has been my duty to root for the Blackhawks through this great playoff run of theirs, but I gotta admit, hockey still just isn't my game.

It ranks comfortably behind basketball, football, baseball, and soccer on my list of personal favorites. Dodgeball would leapfrog it as well, if there were a professional dodgeball league, but then I wouldn't be stuck doing this for a living now, would I?

Anyway, thanks to the thorough douchiness of Chris Pronger (man, that's an easy guy to dislike! See his "bush league" puck stealing for exhibits A and B.), I started exploring the wonderful world of hockey fights today. My last experience with hockey fights was probably in NHL '95 for the Nintendo 64, where it involved a health bar and wannabe Street Fighter action. Good times.

Allow me to direct you, via the mysterious rabbit hole of YouTube, to one of my new favorite sites:

www.hockeyfights.com

It's pretty much exactly what it sounds like. Only more so. There's a page specific to every team and every player, and even a 'top 25 fights of 2009-2010' section.

Blackhawks Fights

This one is probably the best, starring Adam Burish and Derek Dorsett (it rated a 6.8):



And, what's that you say? You'd like to see Flyers captain Mike Richards get his a** handed to him? Okay!



It's not that I love violence, but hockey is the only sport I can think of where the game happily transforms from one thing (hockey) to quite another (amateur boxing/flailing) and nobody minds. Can you imagine this happening in football? Somebody would die within a week! They sure as hell wouldn't be putting up a Tale of the Tape as the helmets dropped.

So yeah, go Hawks. And if somebody decides to take on Pronger, I wish them the best. Paging Dustin Byfuglien...

EDIT: Deadspin is on it. Ohhhh yes.

NHL Trivia

Which three men made comebacks in the NHL after being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto?

Answers will be in comments on Wed

NHL Trade Deadline

So the NHL Trade Deadline has come and gone with the Blackhawks only making so small moves. They traded for defensmen Kim Johnsson before the olympic break, and aquired Nick Boynton last night. Don't know much about Boynton, but he was assigned to the Hawks minor league affiliate. Johnsson has been decent in the 3 games he has played for the Hawks so far. He has been described as a big minutes D guy which is good because he can help with taking some minutes from Keith and Seabrook and keep them fresh for the playoffs.

What is most dissapointing about this deadline is that they didnt really do much to help out their goalie situation. Huet lets get his head get in the way and I believe the Niemi is showing that he might not be ready to take on the work load of a number 1 goalie just yet. The Blackhawks were rumored to be looking to aquiring various goaltenders, but not sure if they werent looking or couldnt get anything done. So the Hawks will be going into the playoffs with Huet and Niemi as their goalies and one of them will have to stand out for the Hawks to have a chance at the cup but its not impossible. We will just have to wait and see.

Triva: Playoffs MVPs for Losing Teams

Two questions in two days, crazy I know. This one was too cool to pass up. There is talks that Chase Utley could win the World Series MVP even if the Yankees win the series. If he does he will be the 9th player to do so from the 4 major sports (MLB, NBA, NFL and NHL). Can you name the other 8?

Here's a breakdown of number per league

MLB - 1
NBA - 1
NFL - 1
NHL - 5

I personally only got 1, so if you can get all 8, you are a better man then I. Answer will be in comments in the next few days.

Weekend Watch (10/16/09)

We have a pretty full slate of action this weekend, in fact, we actually hit all 4 of the big 4 sports this weekend in the watch. It’s good to be in October. Also some fun scheduling this week, big college games being played early in the day, Red River at 11, SC vs UND at 2:30. I LOVE IT! Also, all the best NFL game are being played in early game. So here is what the Watch is watching this weekend.


Friday

Phillies at Dodgers Game 2: 3 CST TBS

Game 2 has already started. I did my humble (yes very humble) breakdown earlier today. Enjoy the nice weather of a baseball game, cause it will be the last time all weekend we will see it. (Baseball is predicting bad weather, so game times might be different). Pedro is throwing today for the Phillies. I don’t care how good he was or how much big game experience he has, I do not want 2009 Pedro starting for my team.

Who I want to win: Dodgers

Who I think will win: Dodgers


Angels at Yankees Game 1: 6:30 CST FOX

First pitch temperature for this game is 41, and it’s supposed to rain. Needless to say I’m glad I didn’t cough up $100+ to go to this game. Hopefully they get the game in or there will be some fun scheduling changes for the MLB to come up with. For tonight’s game, it’s tough betting against a well rested CC, no matter what the weather is like. I think Yankees will take game 1

Who I want to win: Angels

Who I think will win: Yankees

Pittsburgh @ Rutgers 7 PM CST ESPN

Big East in on display for the nation again. I do not think this game will be as exciting as last night, but still competitive. Both teams play a more traditional smash mouth football which as a former O-Lineman, you know I love seeing. Plus Chicagoans love Wanny.

Timberwolves @ Bulls Preseason 7 PM CST

I know basketball junkies like Fodor will probably tune into some action. Game features two of last years top Rookies in Rose and Love. Sounds more like a valentine then a basketball game.

Who I want to win: Bulls

Who I think will win: It’s preseason, so I have no idea, Bulls?

Midnight Madness 8 CST ESPNU

It’s official, teams can practice again. ESPN is going to be at UNC, Duke, and Kentucky among other places. These practices involve little practices, but it is a good way to become familiar with some of the better players on better teams.

Who I want to win: Shirts

Who I think will win: Skins




Saturday

College Game Day 9 CST



They are live from the Cotton Bowl. Kirk is going to have to duck out early and run up to the booth so some more camera time for Desmond. I think they decided to go here to stay warmer.

Who I want Corso to pick: Texas

Who I think Corso will pick: Texas


Red River Rivalry 11 CST ABC



Both of these teams have had this game circled on the calendar since last year. Oklahoma needs to make up for last years loss. Texas is still feeling jobbed after being kept out of a national title game by a team with the same record that they beat. Even though OU has 2 losses, this pre-season game of the year should still be a fun game to watch. Also, you want to know why I wish I went to a big football school. Both schools get Thursday and Friday off this week.

Who I want to win: Texas

Who I think will win: Texas

Iowa @ Wisconsin 11 CST ESPN



The Heartland Trophy will be up for grabs in the game, and come on, who doesn’t love BACON! This is a big game for both teams. Iowa still isn’t getting national respect (mainly cause of UNI and Arkansas St) and are actually underdogs going into Camp Randle. Wisconsin outplayed Ohio State last week but gave up two pick 6s for touchdowns which turned the game into a blow out. This should be a good Big Ten Game.

Who I want to win: Iowa

Who I think will win: Iowa

Southern Cal at Notre Dame 2:30 CST NBC



Another game I discussed earlier today. Notre Dame comes in ranked and lots of people think this is the year they can finally topple the SC hurdle. SC has had some early struggles but still boast the best O-line in the nation. If the O-line gives Barkley enough time, he will shred Notre Dame’s defense and this game could quickly become a shootout. If Clausen wants any hope of winning the Heisman, he better beat Southern Cal.

Who I want to win: Notre Dame

Who I think will win: Southern Cal

VA Tech at Georgia Tech and Alabama at South Carolina (The Real USC) ABC/ESPN 7CST

The tech bowl! No not Temco Bowl (still the greatest game ever!) Va Tech vs Ga Tech in what should be the best game in the ACC this week. I heard a quote I liked about playing GT, it’s like a season on themselves, because no one else plays anything like GT. Well lets see how the VT D responds.

Who I want to win: Georgia Tech

Who I think will win: Va Tech

People are calling this a potential upset for Alabama. I like South Carolina but I don’t see it, Bama’s defense is too good and I don’t think South Carolina will be able to do much. It is the battle of my two favorite SEC teams so I’ll be watching.

Who I want to win: Alabama

Who I think will win: Alabama


Stars at Blackhawks 7:30 CST WGN

Good news for our friends outside of Chicagoland, the Hawks are on WGN so you will be able to watch them. The Hawks have been playing well, even coming back from 5 down. They are playing exciting hockey (leading league in shots on net) and are winning. There might be some goaltender controversy, but I am not too worried.

Who I want to win: Blackhawks

Who I think will win: Blackhawks

Sunday

Ravens at Vikings 12 CST CBS

As fellow ACSS writer Ryan pointed out earlier today, Vikings haven’t beaten anybody yet. If they beat the Ravens, I will be a believer. The Ravens are good at stopping the run and get good pressure on the QB. This should really show how good Farve is. The Ravens defense is fast and will enjoy the fast track, but they can play smash mouth with the best of them. The Vikings D-line is going to try to frustrate the Ravens offense. If Flacco has time, I think he will lead the Ravens to victory.

Who I think will win: Ravens

Who I want to win: Ravens

Giants at Saints 12 CST FOX

I am excited for this game. I want to see what the Giants D (mainly the front 4) do to the New Orleans Saints O. Sean Payton (FROM!? NAPERVILLE CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL!) is great offensive coach and is coming off a bye with enough time to prepare for what the Giants are going to throw at them. The Giants had a quasi bye last week (sorry Oakland) and Eli has subtly become the best road QB in the league. I feel, as Ryan said earlier, until NY loses, they are the best team in the league.

Who I think will win: Giants

Who I want to win: Giants

Phillies at Dodgers Game 3: 7 CST TBS

Series shifts back to Philly for the next three days. If the Phillies win all at home, they will win the series, Dodgers need at least 1.

Who I want to win: Dodgers

Who I think will win: Phillies

Bears at Falcons 7:15 CST NBC

Bears return to the Dome where they suffered a painful loss. Last time they played on Sunday Night Football, Jay Cutler threw 4 ints, and the Bears still almost won. The Falcons offense is one of the best in the league, there D leaves something to be desired. The winner of this game becomes the undisputed 4th best team in the NFC. Should be a good one

Who I want to win: Bears

Who I think will win: Bears

Growing up with...The Blackhawks?

Over the years, one sport that has moved in and out of the spotlight is hockey. That could be because of lockout or lack of interest, or maybe just a combination of both. Either way, the light is back and brighter than ever in the Windy City.

We've read about it all year, the young talent and now the success of a team. So as I sit here at my computer after a 5-2 game 1 loss to the rival Red Wings, it has me thinking about a franchise and how far they have come...in this fan's eyes.

I went to my first Blackhawks game in 1996. I can't really remember the exact date without looking, my ticket stubs are scattered around my room. However, I did find the one from my first Bears game...November 24th, 1996, a 31-14 win over the Lions (No doubt it was a Dave Krieg gem under center).

Enough basking in mid-90's Bears glory, the moments are few and far between. My first Hawks game was against the Hartford Whalers. As an 11 year old, it didn't get any better than box seats, whatever food I wanted, and a 4-3 win. What did I know about professional hockey? The closest I had ever been to a Blackhawks player was when I was at a Dodge Dealership in Downers Grove earlier that year. Eddie Belfour (pictured) drove up in his Viper, bought a truck and left.

After that season, I drifted as a Hawks fan. With few games being televised until this year, there wasn't much exposure. Sure they were my favorite hockey team, but their last Conference title was in the 91-92 season. Their last Stanley Cup title, 1961. Continuing in the mid-90's, it's quite possible that sports fans in Chicago didn't even know we still had a hockey team, and thought the Bulls were the only team that played at the United Center. Rightfully so, as they won championship after championship. After the transformation of the past few years, the Hawks are at the forefront, the perfect mix of young talent and tradition.

You could call many of the fans bandwagon, but there is nothing wrong with that. Its not the hot and cold choice between Cubs and Sox. The Hawks are something the city can agree on and embrace. I recently went to my 2nd Hawks game ever. Round 1, game 5 with Jamie and Steve no less. A Hawks win, but an atmosphere like nothing I had ever experienced. The tradition of cheering during the national anthem began in 1985. As you stand there, you get goosebumps and feel the biggest sense of pride for a country, for a team, and for all the fans there cheering alongside.

The puck drops and there is an electricity flowing throughout the entirety of the game. That game went so well I went to Game 6 against the Canucks. Back and forth the teams went, the building was booming even more than the series before. With a Patrick Kane hat trick, the game and series were clinched. Fittingly, it was the young talent equalling the tradition of a franchise in a game Hawks fans will not soon forget.

The “One Goal” mantra applies to the team and the city, whatever goal they are promoting, we all know the ultimate goal is hoisting the Cup. They have a chance to end the drought, a drought twice as old as many of their players. I know this fan is ready, and the push continues tomorrow night in Detroit.

Bloomington: Summer Superstar Convention

So Noffke and Jamie came down this weekend (yes, they brought their flippy floppys) for a whole bunch of grilling and bartime socializing. How can I make this somehow sports related? Well...

We watched the Sox choke away a game at Yogis with Ninja Bartending Master Glass. And then, as soon as the South Siders lost, 2-1 to Toronto, my fantasy team Cub Kevin Gregg gave up four runs in the ninth to blow the save, followed by the Cubs scoring a run in the bottom of the frame. And no, Gregg didn't get the vulture win, because he didn't even manage to get an out. (Gregg is quoted in the Tribune saying "I think I could have hit myself today.") The Double Baggers just took their first head-to-head loss of the year in my Yahoo!Random League. Utley, Pena, and Wells all decided to slump at the same time as Danks and Chris Young (dropped for Barry Zito)... then Gregg got lit up too. Ouch. On the bright side, I'm goanna win K's every week.

Anyway. Other sporting events of the weekend–we got in three games of darts at Upstairs. I'm not going to gloat too much about the outcome other than to say I will be joining the semi-pro dart playing ranks as of tomorrow. However, Noffke did give me ten-to-one odds on hitting a triple 20.

I am one dollar poorer. Damn.

But yeah, great weekend, except that the Sox really need to pick it up. 15-19? Ouch. I mean, the AL Central is by no means out of reach but it's time to get another starter- yeah, Colon pitched a good 5+ innings today but he can't go any deeper than that- so come on, Kenny Williams.

Hawks-Wings Game One is tomorrow at 3. I'm thinking this is going to be a great series for not only hardcore hockey fans, but also the sport as a whole.

Rants and Ramblings: Stories that won't go away, NHL Dream Matchups, White Sox and The LeBrons

I know I don’t have a Nielson’s rating box, but whenever a story comes on ESPN of Sportscenter that I don’t enjoy; I turn the channel for the slim chance big brother is watching what I’m watching.

The all time biggest channel changing events for me are Roger Clemens coming back to the Yankees, Roger Clemens steroids scandal, T.O.’s first training camp with Parcells and the Cowboys, and Brett Favre never ending retirement talk.

Well look what’s back in the news, Roger Friggin Clemons and Brett “haven’t you ruined my life enough, and I swear I saw you crying on the sideline of Soldier Field 3 years ago” Favre.

Haven’t these stories been done? My favorite part of each of these stories is how the talking heads and columnist start off their opinion with something along the lines of “I am so tired of this story but…” then go on and discuss the story for 10-20 minutes of a couple hundred minutes. IF YOU ARE SO TIRED OF IT THEN STOP TALKING ABOUT IT!

NHL Dream Matchups

The NHL has had a pretty excellent post season for a rating stand point. Yes I know not everyone gets VS (I do!) but I don’t think this year’s ratings should be judged too harsh. This year for the NHL is all about bringing fans back. This is the season that the NHL really reclaims its status as one of the big four team sports in America.

The NHL has been promoting their young stars (Alexander the Great, Sid the Kid, and the lumped together Kane and Toews) as reason for people to watch. What have these young stars done in the second round? AO, Hat Trick, Sid, Hat Trick, Kane, Hat Trick, Toews, 2 Goals. I don’t know if the NHL can build its fan base up based on it’s Stars like the NBA has, but that’s a good way to start. Also 3 of the 4 of these guys are guaranteed to at least make the conference semi-finals.

Besides players, series can draw big ratings. Of the 4 conference semi-finals 3 of them are going to a game 7. Is there anything more compelling then a Game 7? The teams are sick of each other at this point and it’s a winner take all. 1 great play or mistake could end the series. I honestly hope one of these goes into OT.


Another way to get ratings; Big Markets and the Original Six in the playoffs.

Original Six:
Detroit: In the Playoffs. Going to Game 7 in Conference Semi Finals
Chicago: In the Playoffs. Going to Conference Finals
Boston: In the Playoffs. Going to Game 7 in Conference Semi Finals
New York Rangers: In the Playoffs
Montreal: In the Playoffs
Toronto: Missed the Playoffs

Big Markets

New York: Rangers and Islanders in the Playoffs
LA: Ducks In the Playoffs. Going to Game 7 in Conference Semi Finals
Chicago: In the Playoffs. Going to Conference Finals
Philadelphia: In the Playoffs
Washington: In the Playoffs
Boston: In the Playoffs. Going to Game 7 in Conference Semi Finals
Vancouver: In the Playoffs, Lost in Conference Semi Finals


Lastly, Matchups get ratings.

LOOK at the matchups that have occurred.

Battle for California: Ducks vs Sharks
Battle for Penn: Penguins vs Flyers
Original Six: Boston vs Montreal.
Sid the Kid vs Alexander the Great.

Fantastic match ups everywhere. And we can’t forget about the potential of Detroit vs Chicago in the Western Finals.

I have loved this years NHL playoffs. Obviously the Blackhawks playing well keeps my interest longer, but I can honestly tell you, of the 12 playoffs series that have occurred to date, I have watched at least 1 game in 10 of them.



11:05 Start for the White Sox

That’s early. And to make matters worse, Mark B vs Cliff Lee is the pitching matchup. Honestly the game is going to be 90 minutes long. If I was still in college, or a townie like Fodor, I wouldn’t wake up until after this game was over. I do enjoy the afternoon games from a work perspective; it gives me something to continually check back on while working.

$10 on the Cavs!

Mandalay Bay, I’m coming to collect. The LeBrons 8-0 and double digit margin of victory, ridiculous. Regardless who they play, their playoffs haven’t started yet, while everyone else has. [Ed. note– Stop lookin' at my lemonade! I love grandpa LeBron]

Weekend Watch 05/01/09

I know it’s a day early, but I am off tomorrow so my weekend starts in one hour.

Thursday

Celtic at Bulls 7 ET TNT (Celtics Lead Series 3-2)

Elimination game tonight for what many people have called the best first round match-up since they have made it a 7 game series. To this point we have had 3 OT games, a game won on the last shot of regulation, and A Boston blowout. I know I have enjoyed so far and I hope this game doesn’t disappoint. So should the Bulls go after Rondo right away? Should they do what Ryan suggested and put Aaron Grey to throw a haymaker at him? I know I want to see him on his butt every time he comes down the lane.

Who I want to win: Bulls
Who I think will win: Bulls

Blackhawks at Canucks 9 ET VS (Series tied 0-0)

Round 2 begins for the NHL tonight and this should be a fantastic series. The trash talking has already been thrown around and if you don’t believe this won’t be a rough series you’ll have to look at the penalty minutes from the last time they played. How many? 80!!!!!! Luongo is one of the, if not the best goaltender in the game. He has been lights out from shots that are 15 feet or out so far in the playoffs, so the Hawks are going to need to get in close for some good shots. Vancouver has had 9 days off so they might be a little rusty. If Chicago wants to win this series they have to split the first two games.

Who I want to win: Blackhawks
Who I think will in: Canucks

Speaking of the Blackhawks. (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs/2009/news?columnist=johnson_george&id=4114044) Fun read sent to me by Colin who also has a man crush on Toews.


Friday

White Sox at Texas

Normally I wouldn’t include random baseball games that seem insignificant. But this one is important. Why do you ask? Because this is Scotty Pods' (pictured) first game back to the White Sox. I know he wasn’t with the team long, but he was by far my favorite players on the Sox at the time and will always be up there with my all time favorites like Thomas, Ventura, Cora, Guillien, Paulee, and Buehrle (and Jackson, Jordan and Griffey but I love those guys for reason besides what they did in the White Sox uniform). Jamie is exicited he is back on the team for different reasons. I will continue to keep an eye out for his model wife.

Who I want to win: White Sox
Who I think will win: White Sox



Saturday

NBA Playoffs Game 7: TBD TNT

There are 3 potential game 7s that could be played throughout this day. I hope the Bulls and Celtics face off. That would mean they held off elimination and won in Chicago. Can they win in Boston, it’ll be hard but I think they can, and it’s 1 game, anything can happen. The other two are Philadelphia at Orlando and Houston at Portland. Dwight Howard has been suspended for Game 6 and it’s in Philly so I am thinking that one is going to go to 7. I have a feeling Houston will finish off Portland in Game 6.


Who I want to win: Orlando
Who I think will win: Orlando

Who I want to win: Chicago
Who I think will win: Boston

Hawks/Canucks: The Kids Vs. Some More Canadia (e) ns

So you thought the Blackhawks/Flames series was rough and tumble? The Blackhawks/Canucks series should see the intensity taken up a notch. The Blackhawks and Canucks had a good ol' fashion line brawl (complete with hair pulling) in their final game of the regular season:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCCR0PcT4_E

You wouldn’t even see hair pulling in the NBA, and that is saying something. I have been to tea parties (don’t ask) that are more physical (please do ask…women fighting women) than what takes place in NBA games. Don’t be mistaken by Burrows' hair pulling and the Sedin sisters presence; these Canucks are a rough group who have no problem mixing it up. Let’s get to match ups (from a Chicago perspective):

Blackhawk Forwards vs. Vancouver D:
The Blackhawks forwards were surprisingly physical in the first round series against the Canucks, but their strength remains their speed and skill. The St. Louis Blues were unable to make Vancouver pay on the power play in the first round this is one of the few keys to the series. The Blackhawks must continue to convert on the power play on a high clip. This is easier said then done when Roberto Luongo is staring you down like an Irishman eyeing the drink (I love the drink…yes THE DRINK). The line of Byfuglien, Pahlsson, and Versteeg (amazing only one Euro on that line; someone named Kris Versteeg should not be from western Canada) was arguably the Blackhawks most effective in the first round. This is where the Blackhawks have a distinct advantage over the Canucks: Scoring depth. The Blackhawks three lines must be able to consistently put pressure and create traffic in front of Luongo. The fourth line (Burish is such a sob…its great) must continue to play the irritating role they played to perfection.

Blackhawks D vs. Vancouver Forwards:
Can we have a moment of silence in honor of Brent Seabrook? What a f***ing series. He was my MVP for the first round as he played a shut d own role alongside Duncan Keith. They compliment each other so well and have started chatter about being a pair for Team Canada at next years Olympics. The Canucks will rely heavily on the Sedin sisters to carry the load, who surprisingly didn’t crumple like a deck of cards in the first round, and it will be up to Seabrook and Keith to mimic their success against the Iginla line in the first round. The mobile Hawks defensemen should present problems for Vancouver. Cam Barker and Brian Campbell (boo!!! If you love him just wait to see how his contract screws the cap next summer with Toews, Kane, and Keith set to be restricted/unrestricted free agents) must be strong in transition and provide offense from the point.

I really don’t feel like talking about how great Luongo is…so I won’t. The key to beating him will be traffic and getting pucks to the net (same as with every goalie). If he can see it he will stop it, he is the best goalie in the league (ok I lied, I had to say something about his greatness). The Blackhawks cannot fall into their tendency of trying to make the pretty play and instead must hammer the net.

Prediction time: This series is going to be a battle. The young and “inexperienced” Blackhawks proved to the hockey world they can not only stand up to a physical assault, but dish out some punishment of their own (Remember Bourque? Yea I don’t either after Burish broke his stick over him). The resiliency they showed in round 1 will lead them to ultimate victory in the series. Blackhawks in 7 (game 7 will be referred to as 'the apocalypse').

Oh and Khabibulin rocks….just not normally against the Canucks…let us never speak of that again.

Game Four Preview: Tonight We Dine in Hell

The fuse has been lit. After three games the Blackhawks-Flame(rs) series is set to explode. After numerous post whistle attacks on ‘Hawks forwards, the breaking point was reached in the form of Adam Burish breaking his stick on Rene Bourque.

Mike Keenan used this incident to once again play the media to his advantage, crying that Burish broke his stick over Bourque’s face, but he actually broke it over his shoulder. Keenan then whined to the media about the trash talking directed at Calgary captain Jarome Iginla, where he subtly let the media know (unprovoked) that race was not involved in the verbal assaults. This is classic Keenan stirring the pot.

Game 4 (4/22 at 8 pm CST) has the makings of being the most physical game of the series. The Blackhawks know they are on the cusp of a 3-1 chokehold while the Flames realize they are 60 minutes from a tied playoff series. The key for the Blackhawks will be walking the fine line of standing their ground while not letting the game devolve into a bar room fight with the more playoff savvy/veteran Flames.

Just as they did at the beginning of game 3, after Olli “oldest playoff virgin” Jokinen ran Niklas Hjalmarsson (who in this blog going forward will be known as 'Ham-sandwich') they must make the Flames pay on the power play for their ill advised penalties. I expect the referees to dish out penalties for the first couple of post-whistle skirmishes to try and rein in some of the expected violence. The game will hinge on how the referees look to call it and how badly both teams want to send a message.

A fast start by Chicago is imperative to take some wind out of the sails of the Saddledome. Both teams will come out flying, looking to pound the other into submission. The series is quickly mirroring the Philly/Pittsburgh or Ducks/Sharks matchups in terms of intensity and animosity. Patrick Kane on the power play half boards should give the Blackhawks an extra boost with the man advantage.

I look for the Blackhawks to stand their ground but maintain discipline, and execute with 2 PP goals to walk out of Calgary with a hard fought 3-2 win for a 3-1 series lead.

Slainte,

Colin O’Shea

Blackhawks Playoff Preview

[Editor's Note: We have a special guest writer writing our Blackhawks Playoff Preview. Colin O'Shea. Colin is attending tonight's game and might be posting again tomorrow talking about the atmosphere of the UC.]

You say you’re a tried and tested Blackhawks fan? Does the thought of Theo Fleury getting beat up in a Columbus strip club keep you up at night? Were you willing to pay for Alexander Karpotsev’s plane ticket out of town? With the Blackhawks leading the NHL in attendance this year, “die hard” and “life long” fans started filling up the UC again. Well to you Hawks fans who stuck through the likes of Alpo (not the dog food) Suhonen, the promise of Mikhail Yakubov, and the charmin-like softness of Sergei Berezin (still convinced he was scared of his own shadow making contact with him) I say we welcome back the returning fans back with open arms. They simply were not sadistic enough to torture themselves as the Blackhawks faded into obscurity.

Many of the dormant fans might take a look at the Calgary organization and see some familiar faces. They are guided behind the bench by Mike Keenan (last seen tormenting goalies on the way to coaching the Blackhawks to the 1992 Stanley Cup finals), former Blackhawk captain and Coach Darryl Sutter is the team’s general manager (Adrian Aucoin, or Au-groin as he is known in some parts, was a captain of the Blackhawks in name only). A few other Blackhawk pylons (really Rene Bourque? 21 goals??) litter the Flames line up. Enough with the past though….

The Blackhawks current line up no longer represents an AHL team, but rather a balanced line up with three lines that can score and a 4th that can play an irritating role on the ice. If Sharp makes it back for game 1 it will be a huge boost to the Blackhawks line up, but the key to the forwards will be the third line of Sammy Phalsson (I still love you Wisniewski), Dustin Byfuglien, and Andrew Ladd. They will be drawing the assignment to shut down the Bourque-Jokinen-Iginla line (Really Bourque? Really?). Phalsson was acquired from Anaheim for this exact purpose. He was a key member in Anaheim’s capturing of the Stanley Cup and continually drew the assignment of shutting down the opponents top scoring threats.

This line contains two of the three Blackhawks who have hoisted Lord Stanley’s Cup (Ladd and Phalsson…you really didn’t think Byfuglien won a cup, did you? I would bet a lot of money that he would eat out of the cup on his day with it); they know the sacrifice that is needed to reach the promised land (yea, in my world the promised land is skating on frozen water with a giant silver cup).

The key to the defense, especially in the first two games when Coach Q can dictate match ups, will be Keith and Seabrook lining up against the Iginla line. This is so obvious I feel stupid telling you. I apologize.

One of the most important aspects of this series is how quickly the Blackhawks can transition the puck out of their zone to avoid the punishing forecheck the Flames are sure to employ. It is going to be key for Keith and Campbell (please no spin-o-ramas) to start the Hawks transition game while avoiding the punishment the Calgary forwards are going to be looking to deliver.

The Blackhawks have the speed and skill to burn (no pun intended) the Flames the entire series. The Calgary game plan is going to be to punish the Hawks all over the ice. The Hawks must make the Flames pay for their penalties. I imagine the Flames becoming irritated with the Hawks speed and skill and taking either lazy penalties (hooking) or a fair share of roughing penalties as they attempt to “intimidate” the young Hawks. The key will be knowing when to stand your ground and when to let Calgary parade itself to the sin bin.

And let’s not forget we do have a certain goalie who has won a ring (beating these Flames in the finals) and posts a career regular season record of 25-8-7 against them. The media loves to trumpet how young these Blackhawks are, but they have a wealth of experience in the most important position in the playoffs.

Things to watch:
-TUNE IN EARLY FOR THE ANTHEM...it will be televised….
-How Toews and Kane handle the playoff pressure.
-Calgary’s terrible Power Play. This should be good for a laugh.
-How big of a target does Patrick Kane have on his back?
-How many heart attacks will Mike Keenan have as a result of officiating?
-How overrated is Dion Phaneuf?

My prediction: Hawks in 5. Flames win game 3 in their return to Calgary.

I am going to game one and will follow up with my post game reaction.

Slainte,

Colin O’Shea

Hurricanes at Blackhawks 7:30 CST

I'm off to the see the Hawks again tonight. I will be rocking my Toews jersey again but i will be in the 3rd level 4th row up. Should be a good game. I'll give a full recap tonight or tomorrow.
Lets Go HAWKS!

Here Come the Hawks!

Just got two tickets (Section 217 Row 4) to the Blackhawks vs Ducks game tonight. I will have a full recap of the sights and sounds of the game tonight or tomorrow. GO HAWKS!

UPDATE!!!

The Hawks game was phenomenal last night. Whole night was just great. I started out at a happy hour at Cactus Bar and Grill in the Loop. (Having one of the coolest web addresses around www.dontdrinkandtrade.com and yes it’s right by the board of trade). Great deal 5 dollar pitchers of Miller, Blue Moon and St. Pauli Girl. Bulls game came on around 6. Just looked depressing, no effort by either team and the stadium looked maybe 1/6 full.

After enjoying few pitchers, Jamie picked me up and we drove to the stadium. I threw on my Toews jersey which made its inaugural trip to the Untied Center (Jamie had hers on as well so we were twins, how cute I know) We walked in the stadium while they were singing the national anthem. I was a little bummed cause that is one of my favorite parts of the Hawks game and a really cool tradition. We grabbed some food and drinks and got to our seats. We missed about 3 minutes of action, but the Blackhawks scored in the 1st minute. That was a bummer.

Our seats were literally next to the cameras. We were just to the left of center ice in the 200 level. Best thing about 200 level is they bring food and drinks to you. So I opened a tab and got some beer. I did laugh that I was paying 6 something for a cup of Miller Lite in the United Center when not an hour earlier I was paying 5 for a pitcher. Our server was a real nice guy and I noticed he was wearing a really big ring, I was thinking this is some kind of championship ring. He showed me his hand and 1959 AL Championship ring. That was awesome.

Alright so back to the game; The Blackhawks played great in the first adding another goal on the breakaway. It was a 3 on 1 breakaway and everyone got on their feet in anticipation and it paid off. Hawks up 2-0 early. I have to say. I do love the Hawks horn and song for when they score goals this year.

The second period rolled around and Hawks did not look that good. Powerplay was slow and scoring chances were hard to come by. Even when we had good looks Giguere Giguerre made some good saves (34 on the night). The Hawks defense and Huet each made mistakes that allowed the Ducks to come back and tie it.

Third period came and went with neither team being effective. So the game went into overtime. Two minutes into the overtime Marty Havlat got the puck on a breakaway, with two Ducks defenders bearing down on him. Once again the crowd rose to their feet in anticipation. The defender bumped havalat and knocked the puck off his stick while Marty was crossing across the middle. I thought, our opportunity was lost, but no, Marty adjusted from the hit, kicked the puck back to his stick and went over Giguere’s left shoulder for the game winning goal. (Here’s a clip of how it looked from the upper deck, can’t see him kick it back to the stick, but you can see how the UC reacted).

Fantastic game and I look forward to being back next Wed.