Trouble in Toronto?!

Surely one cannot be naive enough to think that I can go a whole season and NOT talk more specifically about the Toronto Maple Leafs. The team that perpetually lives under the microscope can't escape the scrutiny of an anonymous blogger, can they? No pucking way! So let's get down to it then shall we? And just so the leafs fans that do read this climb down my throat...see below

DISCLAIMER: I do not claim to know the team half as well as some of you, nor do I claim to be an expert on all things hockey. This is just an impartial observer's two cents. So no need to trace my IP and send me mail bomb's in molsen bottles or anything...although if you send me "canadian" bacon that would be awesome.

So the Leafs have had a rocky start, which unfortunately is not too uncommon these days. There have been calls for Ron Wilson's job, and I think that is premature at this point. Ron Wilson is a winning coach over his career, and all but one team that he has coached (well two counting the the Leafs at this point) have made the playoffs. The problem lies, not so much in the coaching, but in the roster itself.

I'm not the biggest proponent of having to have "star" power on a roster, but top six talent is sorely lacking on this team. Phil Kessel, while a necessary but expensive pick up, has no one to feed him the puck. Tyler Bozak is certainly not a number one, nor is Grabovski although he is having a solid year so far. He is currently on pace for 60+ points, which would be a personal best at any professional/junior level. Looking up and down this roster, it is a typical Brian Burke team with a lot of character, but what it's lacking is the elite level offensive talent on the top lines. In Vancouver, he had the Sedins, Anaheim he had Selanne, Getzlaf etc etc. Here he has Kessel. That's it. Yes I am aware of the expectations for Nazem Kadri, but at this point I don't think he is really ready for the NHL. His call up this year is out of necessity, nothing more. I do think that Burke has this team heading in the right direction, but regardless of what he says, this team is rebuilding.

Despite the problems up front, the defensive issues are the most pressing concern. Looking at the top 6 (based on games played), this team should be able to keep the opposition from running up the score. For the most part they have, although in their last four losses they've been outscored a combined 16-6. That's not acceptable for any team, especially with a back six as deep as Toronto's. What's more disturbing is that this team is ranked 3rd in shots against. So the defense is doing something right, but without offensive help, they're going to keep losing games like this, especially ranking 27th in goals per game. Simply put, the defense needs help from the fowards to take the pressure off. This is a good group, and if given the room to breathe, I'm sure they can create some quality chances. Until then, I can't see this situation changing very much.

Since my goaltending review, the numbers have gone down for Giguere but have improved for The Monster. This is a good thing, since Giggy is now out with a groin injury and Gustavsson played well tonight against the Devils. Granted it's the Devils (sorry NJ fans reading) who haven't been the club they've been in the past. Still it's back to back wins for the leafs who are close to seeing the return of Phaneuf, and with the play of Kadri tonight, things can turn around for the Leafs.

Things I'd like to see from the Leafs this season: Trade Kaberle. Yeah I know, I'm sick of hearing about it too, but let's face it the draft picks are running out, and he is your best, expendable asset. Let one of the other guys step up into his place, and trade for a top 6 center. The continued success of The Monster. Unless something happens, he is the goalie of the immediate future and he needs to play up to expectations. If The Monster plays well, and the team in front of him puts up some consistent offense, the Leafs can be a team to shake things up this year. As it stands now, they are currently sitting in 10th place, but only 2 points out of 8th. It's not impossible to think that the Leafs can put together a run and sneak into the playoffs. So, Brian Burke needs to get on the phone, and make some things happen. I know the fans have been planning the parade since 1968, but something's gotta change. Well, unless you guys like having your team golfing in April.


Go Leafs?

the west

i'm gonna do them all at once...just to save room. with that said this entry will, most likely anyway, have the biggest gap in numbers as it will take me more than one sitting. i'm lazy. whatever.

CENTRAL DIVISION

St. Louis Blues: Jaroslav Halak (8-2-2, SO 3, GAA 1.79, Save% .932) Ty Conklin (1-1-1, SO 0, GAA 2.73, Save% .898)

When (and if) you're going to talk about Blues goaltending, you have to talk about Jaroslav Halak. The fact that this guy was traded for what amounts to a bag of pucks and a 6 pack is amazing. Looking at his numbers so far, it seems like he's picking up right where he left off in the post season. He shut down both the Penguins and the Capitals, carrying the Canadiens on his back to the Eastern Conference finals. His goals against and save percentage are both excellent, and this is just what the Blues need. They have a young team, and a goaltender who can bail them out of trouble is excellent. His abilities let the people in front of him take some chances that ultimately lead to some success. As it stands right now, the Blues are 5th in West. Despite their horrid start last year, the Blues finished strong but just missed the playoffs. With Halak behind them, I see this team making it in the west. Ty Conklin is a capable back up, and has gone to the cup finals two years in a row, with Pittsburgh and Detroit. While he may have been on the losing side both times, he's somewhat of a good luck charm.

Chicago Blackhawks: Marty Turco (7-5-2, SO 0, GAA 2.73, Save% .911) Corey Crawford (2-4-0, SO 0, GAA 2.64, Save% .908)

There can be no mistake about it, Marty Turco is a stop-gap for the Blackhawks. With the departure of Niemi thanks to arbitration going his way, and Huet being way too expensive to keep, the 'Hawks needed someone, hell anyone, to play goal. Enter Marty Turco. After being told that he'll no longer be needed in Dallas, he took off for the reigning Stanley Cup champions. Not a bad move on his part. Turco is still a good goalie, and with a solid team in front of him, he'll once again prove effective between the pipes. I don't think he will get them to repeat, but that's more of a side effect of the cap more than the play of Turco.
But, I called him a stop-gap didn't I? What the puck am I talking about you ask? Well it seems that the Hawks are going to bank on Corey Crawford to be the goalie of the future, but he doesn't seem ready to handle the load full time just yet. Turco will be able to handle the load a starter would need, and be a good mentor to a younger goalie. While it's a shame he got a bum wrap in Dallas, this new team should help to provide him with a fresh start, and hopefully a better reputation.

Columbus Bluejackets: Steve Mason (5-5-0, SO 0, GAA 3.23, Save% .895) Mathieu Garon (4-1-0, SO 2, GAA 1.28, Save% .951)

Oh Steve Mason, what happened? A Calder cup, and a Vezina nomination. The sky was the limit for this dude. Then, the dreaded "sophomore slump" happened, and it seems that he hasn't been able to get back on track. This team needs him (or someone else, but i'll get into that in a second) to play like it's his rookie season again if they want to get back to the playoffs for the second time in their history. Unfortunately, he's looking like a flash in the pan instead of the next big thing.
Enter Mathieu Garon. A shining star in the junior ranks who never seemed to get transfer his success to the NHL...until now. Will he finally live up to those potential, or will he just be another fluke like Mason seems (see that key word) to be? Whatever the case may be, someone needs to step up for this team. They are in one of the toughest divisions in the league, and if they want to compete they have to play better.

Detroit Redwings: Jimmy Howard (9-1-1, SO 1, GAA 2.15, Save% .921) Chris Osgood (2-2-0, SO 0, GAA 2.76, Save% .893)

Jimmy Howard has his coming out party last year, winning the starting job away from Osgood, and taking the team to the 2nd round of the playoffs. It's up to him this year to prove he's the real deal. Looking at his numbers so far, he is. Detroit has always had solid goaltending, and this year is no different. While Osgood's best years are behind him, he's still able to handle whatever is given to him. Undoubtedly though, Howard will be the man in the cage now, and in the future. With numbers like this, it can't be a bad thing. Oh and if you forgot, he punched Sidney Crosby in the face. That was pretty cool.

Nashville Predators: Pekka Rinne (4-4-2, SO 1, GAA 2.85, Save% .910) Anders Lindback (3-1-1, SO o, GAA 2.76, Save% .917)

The apparent depth of the goaltender position for Nashville is downright scary. Rinne comes up and steals the job away from Ellis last season, and now Lindback comes up this year and is playing exceptionally well. While the goals against on this team is respectable, I like the numbers overall and think that the lack of offense from the Preds so far this season is what's keeping the GAA up.
Also, Pekka Rinne has bit a bit inconsistent to start the year. I think that he's still finding his game this season, and his early lower body injury did little to help him in that regard. The good news is, that if he continues to struggle, it looks like Lindback can step in and Nashville should be ok. The real concern for the Predators lies in their inconsistent offense. Once they find their scoring touch, the goaltending numbers will improve and this team should be one to watch.

NORTHWEST DIVISION

Vancouver Canucks: Roberto Luongo (7-4-2, SO 1, GAA 2.66, Save% .914) Cory Schneider (3-0-0, SO 0, GAA 0.90, Save% .969)

Luongo is playing like Luongo, which is a good thing...for now. His real test will come once Vancouver makes the playoffs. Looking at this division right now, it's Vancouver's to lose. While this was the prediction at the beginning of the season, if the playoffs started tomorrow Vancouver would be the only team from their division to make the cut.
The real story is the backup Cory Schneider. A standout at Boston College and with Manitoba in the AHL, winning the AHL equivalent of the Vezina and Jennings trophy in 08-09, has continued his winning ways. There are a few possible scenarios that will play out in the future with this kid. If he continues to play well, teams will come knocking on Vancouver's door. He's under contract until 2012 though, so if he stays to the end of his contract and continues his excellent play, expect someone to put in an offer sheet during his restricted free agency. The most unlikely of scenarios would be that he ends up stealing the job from Luongo, and Roberto has to pack his bags. However, I don't see that happening at all.

Calgary Flames: Miikka Kiprusoff (6-8-0, SO 2, GAA 2.80, Save% .903) Henrik Karlsson (1-1-0, SO 0, GAA 4.32, Save% .847)

.........Once again Kiprusoff is on pace to start 70+ games. This simply can't happen up in Calgary. Given their recent track record of sub par backups and tight races for playoffs spots, I can understand it. The bottom line though, is that in order for the Flames to be successful, Kipper needs to be fresh. He can't be fresh when he's starting almost every game for them. The good news is that Karlsson looks like he could be able to play more than 10-12 games for the Flames. Despite his numbers this season, he has posted decent numbers his last two years in Sweden. If he can carry those kind of numbers over to the NHL, the Flames will have a solid 1-2 punch in net. If he keeps up with this kinda play, expect another long season for Kiprusoff.
The more startling situation in Calgary is the inconsistent play. Losing to Edmonton, beating LA. They haven't had a streak of longer than three wins so far this season. It's gotten so bad that even Iginla's name has come up in trade rumors. Something has to be done in Calgary or it'll be another empty Saddledome come April.

Colorado Avalanche: Craig Anderson (3-4-0, SO 0, GAA 3.15, Save% .907) Peter Budaj (5-3-1, SO 1, GAA 2.67, Save% .907)

Last year's remarkable run really stunned a lot of people. Everyone expected the Avs to finish in the cellar, and they did the exact opposite, finishing 8th in the west. As of right now, the Av's are hovering around .500 and sitting in 12th in the West. The disturbing news is the knee injury to goaltender Craig Anderson. Anderson carried this team last year, and now it looks like it's Budaj's turn to carry the load. The Avalanche need to string together some wins and take the pressure off. Budaj is already playing decent hockey so hopefully the team that a stepping stone to some more wins.

Minnesota Wild: Nicklas Backstrom (7-4-1, SO 1, GAA 1.98, Save% .937) Jose Theodore (1-2-0, SO 0, GAA 3.02, Save% .909)

Nicklas Backstrom is continuing his excellent play up in Minnesota, which unfortunately doesn't really mean much to a team who hasn't made the playoffs since 07-08. Goaltending has seldom been an issue for the Wild, and this year is no exception. This is still Backstrom's team, but the addition of Theodore was a good one. While not their first pick for their backup, Theodore is more than capable of backing up, or even starting if something should happen. Although, I don't think anyone in Minnesota would like that.

Edmonton Oilers: Nikolai Khabibulin (4-9-1, SO 1, GAA 3.97, Save% .879) Devan Dubynk (0-0-2, SO 0, GAA 2.98, Save% .921)

There's not a whole lot you can say about Edmonton's goaltending. Well nothing good anyway. Still, I'll try to find something. Nikolai is still out of jail, but playing in Edmonton can't be much better. Although I'm sure the violation is slightly better since it's not as physical. Dubynk hasn't lost in regulation. I suppose that's good. The Oilers are still a young team, and they're going to give up a lot of goals. I suppose it's going to get better eventually, but for now, there's not much to be optimistic about. Well, maybe there's another lottery pick in it for them.

PACIFIC DIVISION

Los Angels Kings: Jonathan Quick (10-1-0, SO 1, GAA 1.52, Save% .944) Jonathan Bernier (2-2-0, SO 0, GAA 2.26, Save% .922)

After last year's playoff exit, certain people questioned Jonathan Quick's performance. Personally, I thought he played well enough, and the Kings looked overwhelmed by the Canucks. So the offseason led to questions about Bernier eventually taking over the starting job, should Quick continue to underachieve. Well, Quick has responded with the best record in the league so far. He is at the top or near the top of every goaltending statistic at this point. As a result the Kings are 2nd overall in the league and leading the Western Conference.
Bernier has also played well even though he has been on the ice for most of the Kings losses. Everyone's saying the future is bright in LA, and they're right. If the youngsters keep playing like this, and they get some consistent scoring up front, the future could be now. LA will make the playoffs and with goaltending like this they will easily win their division. Possibly the west when all is said and done. Part of me wants to tell you to expect the other shoe to drop, but honestly, I don't see it happening. The Kings are legit. Watch for Lombardi to be a buyer towards the end of the year into the All Star break. They will also be looking to add come the deadline.

Dallas Stars: Kari Lehtonen (7-6-0, SO 0, GAA 2.89, Save% .907) Andrew Raycroft (1-1-0, SO 1, GAA 2.22, Save% .943)

I think it is safe to say that the Stars surprised everyone coming out of the gate, but have since come down to earth. Kari Lehtonen has been, statistically speaking, exactly what you expect. When it's all said and done, I don't see Dallas as a much better team than Atlanta, relatively speaking. Yes, that'll annoy you Stars fans out there, but given the change in direction towards the youth movement, you can't expect Lehtonen to give you more of the same. Over his career I've actually supported him, as he is a decent goalie who has played on sub par teams.
The key to both Lehtonen's and the Stars success lies in his health, which is a bit of a tall order considering his track record. if he stays healthy the Stars can be successful, if he falters, I don't think Raycroft will be the answer. While an adequate backup, when coupled with the starting load, Raycroft hasn't looked impressive. Dallas is in a transition/rebuilding period, and the same can be said for their goaltending. Here's hoping Stars fans...it's all you can do.

Anaheim Ducks: Jonas Hiller (8-5-2, SO 0, GAA 2.83, Save% .920) Curtis McElhinney (2-2-0, SO 1, GAA 2.98, Save .924)

Jonas Hiller is the Ducks. Ever since Hiller has won the starting job from Giguere, he's run with it. Anyone who's seen this kid play knows how good he is. Unfortunately, the team that's in front of him has been struggling the past few seasons. The Ducks are troubled with a defense that sorely misses Neidermeyer and Pronger, and an offense that is carried by Ryan-Getzlaf-Perry. Teemu Selanne and Saku Koivu have also played well, but they are nearing the end of their careers. Especially Selanne who has flirted with retirement for the past few years.
McElhinney is the "X-factor" here. With a solid collegiate and AHL career, he has seemingly struggled in the NHL. His best season was last year, and Anaheim is banking on him continuing to build on that and be a dependable backup. At the end if the day, it all comes down to Hiller.

San Jose Sharks: Antero Niittymaki (6-1-2, SO 0, GAA 1.80, Save% .929) Antti Niemi (2-4-0, SO 0, GAA 3.73, Save% .878)

The Sharks made a splash (ugh that was an untentional terrible joke) in the off season by acquiring Antti Niemi after Chicago let him walk away due to the ruling in arbitration. Neimi ended up signing for less than than amount award during the process, which has to chap the Blackhawks ass. That is until they saw his performance this season. His stellar offseason play has given way to pedestrian play this season. Not exactly what the Sharks were hoping for, but it has given away to a pleasant surprise from another offseason signing.
Antero Nittymaki has long been a goalie who has been thought of as a starter, only to fold under the pressure. Right now, it seems that he is taking his opportunity and making the most of it. Apparently, Niittymaki is finally healthy and no longer suffering from hip problems that plagued him earlier in his career. It should prove interesting to watch this potential goaltending battle, although if Niitty keeps playing the way he has, and Niemi continues to under perform, it shouldn't be much of a contest.

Phoenix Coyotes: Ilya Bryzgalov (6-2-5, SO 0, GAA 2.93, Save% .915) Jason LaBarbera (1-3-0, SO 0, GAA 3.45, Save% .904)

Last season's Cinderella story, seems to be on the verge of turning back into a pumpkin. Wow, that was terrible too. Whatever. The most telling stat listed here is the 5 overtime losses for the 'Yotes. They can't close out games, and they're struggling to score. Bryzgalov is an excellent goaltender, but even the best can only stop so many before they let one in. As of right now, only three players in Phoenix have 10 or more points.
I have no reason to think that Bryzgalov isn't capable of stealing a few games, but despite the recent three game win streak, the Coyotes need to find a way to get more consistent offense. Both Stempniak and Wolski were point per game players since being acquired at last year's trade deadling, and each have 9 points. Phoenix needs to start winning in regulation, that's the key. Their goaltending will be fine.

finish the east

Florida Panthers: Tomas Volkun (5-5-0, SO 2, GAA 2.56, Save% .914), Scott Clemmensen (1-2-0, SO 0, GAA 2.59, Save% .907)

The Florida Panthers are an enigma, to say the least. With a +13 goal differential, they are currently one game below .500. This just doesn't make sense. They are clearly a better team than their record suggests, and a good portion of that is goaltending. To start the season Tomas Volkun was phenominal, posting back to back shutouts. Volkun will be the catalyst to success, since goal scoring seems to be sporatic. When this team scores, they score in bunches, but when they lose they seldom score more than a few.
Scott Clemmensen is a solid back up, capable of carrying a starting workload, as we all saw two years ago in New Jersey. Personally, I thought he deserved a chance to be a starter elsewhere in the league, but that's just me. Despite his losing record, he's putting up numbers relatively close to Volkun's. Good news for the Florida coaching staff. When it all comes down to it, Volkun is clearly the starter for this team, it's nice to know you have someone who will perform almost as well.

Atlanta Thrashers: Chris Mason (6-5-1, SO o, GAA 3.56, Save% .903), Ondrej Pavelec (1-1-2, SO 0, GAA 2.24, Save% .931) Peter Mannino (0-0-0, SO 0, GAA 1.58, Save% .938. relief appearance)

Atlanta opened their season with the most bizzare goaltending injury I have ever seen. For those of you who might have missed it, Pavelec passed out in the first period. He collapsed on the ice and in the process concussed himself. You can't make this kind of stuff up. Pavelec has since recovered and will look to take back the starting job from Chris Mason. The Thrashers haven't had the easiest schedule to start the season with having played divisional rivals Tampa Bay and Washington twice already, as well as games against Chicago and San Jose.

While Pavelec will reclaim his starting role, barring another collapse, Mason played well and I think his numbers are indicative of the schedule thus far. Look for the Thrashers to improve against less offensively gifted teams, and numbers to improve. Given the close, competitive nature of the Eastern conference, I still don't see this team making waves, but they could still be a spoiler.

Carolina Hurricanes: Cam Ward (8-7-0, SO 0, GAA 3.12, Save% .909) Justin Peters (0-2-0, SO 0, GAA 4.77, Save% .841)

Carolina this season has been rather inconsistent. As seen by some of their results, they are capable of getting goals in bunches, but they're also capable of being blown out of the water. In a division with teams with goal scoring threats like Washington and Tampa Bay, I can't see how this lackluster performance can help the Hurricanes. The 'Canes are more than capable of playing a better defensive game, but in all aspects of the game, this team can be better.
looking strictly at the numbers, Cam Ward is not playing that well. His save percentage is respectable, but the GAA has to come down, but that's just as much a problem with the team in front of him. With no support you're eventually going to let some get past you. Justin Peters's numbers are certainly no better, and from a backup it spells disaster. No team can afford to ride their goalie 70 games, and expect to get somewhere. With a backup putting up numbers like that, Carolina is going to have to continue to rely on Ward, and that will mean a worn out goaltender come playoff time...if they can even get that far.

Tampa Bay Lightning: Dan Ellis (4-4-2, SO 2, GAA 2.53, Save% .904) Mike Smith (4-3-0, SO 0, GAA 3.63, Save% .869)

The Lightning made off like a bandit with the off season signing of Dan Ellis this summer. Ellis might have lost his starting job to Pekka Rinne in Nashville, but that's more of a testament to the play of Rinne, rather than a blight against Ellis's record. Ellis is more than capable of being a starter or the other number one in a 1A/1B tandem situation. This is good because looking at the play of Mike Smith this season, Ellis will be the number one for the foreseeable future.
Mike Smith has been somewhat of a disappointment since coming over in the Brad Richards trade from Dallas. However, that can be attributed to the abysmal play of the team in front of him and not just himself. With that in mind, Tampa Bay has been consistently improving the last few years, and Smith seemingly, has not. If this keeps up, expect Smith who is an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season to find a new home come July 1.

Washington Capitals: Michal Neuvirth (11-3-1, SO 1, GAA 2.60, Save% .910) Braydon Holtby (2-0-1, SO 0, GAA 2.22, Save% .911) Semyon Varlamov 0-1-0, SO 0, GAA 2. 91, Save% .896...injured)

Two years ago the Capitals rode Semyon Varlamov to the Eastern Conference Finals, replacing one time Vezina winner Jose Theodore early into the playoff run. Again he was called upon to replace Theodore in the playoffs last year, before the Caps were eliminated by Montreal in 7 games, in which the unreal play of Jaroslav Halak was first displayed. Cut to this season where Varlamov was injured and replaced by highly touted prospect Michal Neuvirth.
Neuvirth has looked impressive backstopping the Caps to the league's best record so far. Goaltending in Washington has never been an issue, largely due to the potent, dynamic offense which is arguably the most impressive in the league. The bigger concern lies in the defense, which has been incredibly shallow in recent years. the run and gun style they play works well in the regular season, but can be stopped by a team playing solid defensive hockey. While purely speculating, it would be rather interesting if Washington began to shop Varlamov has he gets healthy. I can't honestly think that would happen, but it would be rather interesting. The Caps need solid shut down D-men to compliment the offensive minded Green. Time will tell what's going to happen there.

atlantic division.

New York Islanders: Rick DiPietro (2-3-2, SO 0, GAA 4.21, Save% .854) Dwayne Roloson (2-6-0, SO 0, GAA 2.26, Save% .915)

There was a time when Rick DiPietro was thought to be the franchise player and new face of the Islanders. Then look back at his injury report, which is longer than War and Peace at this point, and wonder what the higher up's were thinking. However, during his healthy years he was pretty solid for the isles. I think at this point he's been out of competition for so long, it's taking longer than hoped/anticipated to find his game.
Dwayne Roloson has been a solid and reliable goaltender throughout his career. He has taken multiple teams to the playoffs, and even carried Edmonton to within one win of the Stanley Cup. Last season with DiPietro going down, again, he beat out Martin Biron for the starting role. While he certainly isn't getting any younger, I think Roloson is capable of at least another season. What the Islanders need right now is a little bit of everything. They're tied for last in the conference and division with the New Jersey Devils and in a three way tie for last in the league with NJ and Edmonton. Injuries up and down the line up have really hurt this team. I still believe my early season writings that this team will be competitive in a few years, but with sub par goaltending and injuries to key players, it looks like another lottery pick for the Islanders

New York Rangers: Henrik Lundqvist (6-5-1, SO 2, GAA 2.67, Save% .918) Martin Biron (1-2-0, SO 0, GAA 2.36, Save%.901)

While Martin Biron has shown that he can be a capable starter and/or a backup as well as an excellent team guy on and off the ice, this is very much "King Henrik"'s team. Lundqvist is one of the better goaltenders in the league, and he has been nominated for the vezina three times in his career. He is also the first goalie to win 30 games in his first five seasons. What should be a cause for concern is the amount of games he starts every season. He's averaging nearly 68 starts a season, and 4 of his 5 seasons have been 70 or more. All this leads me to believe that he's going to worn out prematurely.
With Martin Biron on the bench, the Rangers finally have a backup who is capable of giving Henrik more than 10-12 games off a season. If the Rangers can keep Lundqvist under 65 starts, and get solid goaltending out of Martin Biron, there's no reason to think that the Rangers can't make the playoffs. However, in addition to goaltending the Rangers needs much more consistency up front. Once everyone in NY is healthy this team should be looking a lot better.

Pittsburgh Penguins: Marc-Andre Fleury (1-6-0, SO 0, GAA 3.55, Save% .853) Brent Johnson (6-2-1, SO 1, GAA 2.11, Save% .927)

the biggest question mark going into this season will be the play of Marc- Andre Fleury. The guy was lights out in their cup run, but last season was rather inconsistent. Look for him to have a bounce back year. If he doesn't i think the pens will be in for another early exit

There were never truer words spoken in this blog....maybe. Fleury has certainly continued his struggles from last season early on in this campaign, but the play of Brent Johnson has certainly seemed to squash those preseason worries from Pittsburgh. However, I think it's still a cause for concern when your franchise goalie is struggling so much. If numbers don't change right now, Fleury is on pace for his worst season ever. Yep, ever.
Brent Johnson has been a pleasant surprise for the Pens, but he has been a more than capable back up throughout his career. His excellent play, paired with Fleury's poor play, is posing somewhat of a dilemma in Pittsburgh. Johnson hasn't carried a starting load since 01-02 with St. Louis. The Penguins currently sit in 10th in east, and barring a change of pace it's not looking too good at the Consol Energy Center.

New Jersey Devils: Martin Brodeur (3-8-1, SO 2, GAA 2.70, Save% .904), Johan Hedberg (1-2-1, SO 0, GAA 4.64, Save% .855)

When talking about the New Jersey Devils, What the Pucking Puck is the best way to describe them. On paper this team should be amazing, but it's not. Aside from the two shutouts posted by the all time shutout leader, there's nothing good to say about the Devils goaltending situation. If not for those shutouts, Brodeur's numbers would probably be about the same as Hedberg's. There is cause for alarm all over this line up and goaltending is no exception.
Brodeur hasn't been very good, and his injured elbow has caused him to miss some games. Hedberg has also played below expectations, but that could be said for the entire roster. Having watched a few Devils games this season, I have seen both goaltenders play, and they haven't been terrible. The bigger problem is the lack of support in front of them. While I understand there is a change is style underway, this team has to be better if they want to do anything this season. As it stands right now, they are a lottery pick and lack any sense of identity. Yikes!

Philadelphia Flyers: Sergei Bobrovsky (8-2-1, SO 0, GAA 2.19, Save% .926), Brian Boucher (1-2-1, SO 0, GAA 2.26, Save% .898)

During the offseason, the story was whether or not the Flyers have done enough with simply re-signing Leighton to a two year deal. At that time is was Leighton, Boucher and Johan Backlund as potential goaltenders with the big club. As it turns out, Leighton had a bad back (which is still recovering from preseason surgery) and that left room for undrafted prospect Sergei Bobrovsky. An impressive preseason, coupled with a poor showing from Backlund, gave Bobrovsky a chance to make the big club. Make it is an understatement. Initially I was taking the position that Bobrovsky needed to play in the AHL to adjust to the north american game, he has clearly proven otherwise.
With Leighton on the mend and approaching a return to the ice, there is one again a goaltending controversy in Philadelphia, but this is actually a good one. I would suspect that Laviolette will give Leighton a chance to prove he's back to the form that carried this team through the regular season and to the finals, but right now this is Bobrovsky's job to lose and I don't suspect it will happen easily. Look for Boucher to be the odd man out once Leighton is healthy, but when all is said and done, they might as well call the town Bobadelphia.

netminder roundup

Well before I get started, it is officially Veteran's Day here in the good ol' US of A, and I just wanted to send a thank you out to all veterans and active duty soldiers for doing what they're doing. All gave some, some gave all. So thanks. Ok enough of that. There's hockey to discuss.


I have been trying to figure out a way to cover these goalie tandems (or however many may be used in some cases), and i guess it'll have to be divisional. It's just easier that way. So we're gonna do this just like the seasonal previews, let's begin with the Northeast Division.

Boston Bruins: Tim Thomas (8-0-0, SO 3, GAA 1.39, Save% .959), Tuukka Rask (0-3-1, SO 0, GAA 2.66, Save% .921)

As I mentioned on facebook, this may or may not be the best goaltending duo in the National Hockey League today. Despite Rask's record I will still say this is one of the best tandems in the league. Tim Thomas has been the best goaltender in the opening month of the season. He is simply unbeatable. Only one other goaltender has has many wins as Tim Thomas at this point, and that is LA's Jonathan Quick, but he has lost a game and only has one shut out to his credit this season. I really have nothing else to say about Thomas. It's all there, and you can't dispute it.
I do however have to comment on Tuukka Rask's marginal performance so far this season. I personally only saw him play in the season opener overseas, where the Bruins looked completely outplayed by the Phoenix Coyotes. His numbers are respectable, although based on his play down the stretch last year and into the first round of the playoffs, he is definitely off his game. What I don't like about talking about goaltenders, is simply the wins/losses. The goaltender is the only player who gets a personal win or loss, when it's up to the whole team to win or lose. That being said, there are instances when a goalie's play will win or lose a game for a team, but when a team is playing terribly, you can't expect a goalie to save them all. Either way Rask needs to find some confidence with a win and go from there. Right now the bruins are scary.

Montreal Canadians: Carey Price (8-5-1, SO 2, GAA 2.28, Save% .918) Alex Auld (1-0-0, SO 0, GAA 1.00, Save% .968)

This team will go as far as Carey Price can carry them (ugh that was a terrible pun and unintentional too). Alex Auld put up decent numbers in his only appearance, but it's up to Price to get this team into the playoffs and win a round, at least. Price's numbers are very reflective of the team in front of him. If they play well, so does he. Fair or not, the media and fans in Montreal are incredibly demanding, and if Price can't handle it (see: telling the fans to "chill") there's no way he will last in the Blanc rouges et bleu.

Ottawa Senators: Pascal Leclaire (0-2-1 SO 0, GAA 3.24, Save% .903) Brian Elliot (8-4-0, SO 0, GAA 2.81, Save% .911) Robin Lehner (0-0-0, SO 0, GAA 0.00, Save% 1.000....relief appearances)

Pascal Leclaire's seemingly endless list of injuries make the trade with columbus seem laughable, but he is more than a capable goaltender. It's his perpetual spot on the DL that make him nothing more than someone you'd want as a backup. Brian Elliot should be this team's number 1 from here on out. What Ottawa needs is to play overall better hockey as they currently have more goals against than goals for. They have won 4 in a row, so maybe things are heading in the right direction for the Senators. Only time will tell if Leclaire can stay healthy and return to his promising form, or if he'll slowly go the way of the Buffalo. Speaking of Buffalo....

Buffalo Sabres: Ryan Miller (3-5-2, SO 0, GAA 2.71, Save% .903), Patrick Lalime (0-3-0, SO 0, GAA 3.32, Save% .888) Jhonas Enroth (2-1-0, SO 0, GAA 3.62, Save% .870)

Really, what can you say about Buffalo? This team is in dire straits already. They are currently sitting 12th in conference and are 27th overall in the league. The Sabres are very much in of a shake up as this team isn't up to much good. Only 8 players on the roster are a 0 or plus, which is indicative of a team that's struggling both offensively and defensively. The injury to Ryan Miller cannot be seen as good, even if it is "day to day." They are on their best winning streak of the season having just won their second game in a row last night beating New Jersey in a shoot out. Goaltending needs to improve, but so does this team in every aspect in order for them to be successful. Right now, look for Jhonas Enroth to take over the backup spot once Ryan Miller returns from injury...if Buffalo is willing to waive Lalime.

Toronto Maple Leafs: Jean-Sebastian Giguere (4-4-2, SO 0, GAA 2.48, Save% .902) Jonas Gustavsson (1-3-1, SO 0, GAA 2.97, Save% .898).

Leaf Nation, I feel for you. Maybe. I appreciate your extreme devotion, but this team is not going to win the cup anytime soon. JS is playing well enough, but this team cannot win in front of him. With the exception of Kessel, this team is mostly 2nd-4th line guys. The defense should be playing far better, because on paper it's one of the deepest in the league. This team has lost seven in a row. Giguere, as previously stated, isn't stinking up the joint, but he isn't getting help. Not from his offense, not his defense...or his back up.
Jonas Gustavsson is, or was, one of the most sought after goaltending prospects in recent memory. The Leafs won "The Monster," but so far he has far from lived up to expectations. I can't see Giguere being re-signed, especially not at a salary close to his current $6million per year. If that should happen, the monster will have to elevate his play. Hopefully this can be another season of learning and growing for Gustavsson, who has shown glimpses of his potential during his tenure in the NHL, and he's also shown that he was very good playing in Sweden. Given his two year extension, he will have to live up to the hype, otherwise it will be a long two years for both the Leafs and the Monster.

early season surprises

So the season has been underway and it's time to take a look at some of the unexpected surprises this season.

I have to start with Tim Thomas. Earlier in the blog, I said this Everyone is expecting Tim Thomas to bounce back and have a better year, but the job is still Rask's to lose, and it has certainly happened, but no one expected it to happen so fast. Tim Thomas is one of those guys who you want to see do well, regardless of what team he's on...well unless you're a Habs fan. The guy has paid his dues and earned his spot, never once complaining, at least no publicly. Then he has a "bad" season (if you look back his number were respectable, but the team in front of him was bad for stretches), and lost his job to a rookie. It's safe to say most of us thought that Tuukka Rask was going to build on his solid rookie year and be the goaltender of the future. In all fairness, he still is, but you can't win them all. Don't tell that to Tim Thomas. His numbers this season have been ridiculous. 6 games played, 3 goals against for a save percentage of .984, a goals against average of 0.50 and 3 shutouts! Tim is one of those guys who refuses to be counted out, and right now he's out to prove he's still got it...and making the Bruins nearly unstoppable.

You can't talk good without the bad, and right now it doesn't get much worse than the New Jersey Devils. While still early in the season, there is no reason while this team should be last in the league. They have far too many weapons, but have also been decimated by injury. Salvador has missed all of the season so far with a concussion, and injuries occuring throughout the early campaign to Rolston, Corrente, Volchenkov, Josefson and now Parise (who will be sidelined indefinitely after knee surgery) it seems like there's not much to look forward to for the Devils. They're in big cap trouble after the kovalchuk fiasco, although all these injuries have to provide some kind of temporary cap relief, and the loss of draft picks are going to kill this team for awhile, who look to be a lottery team right now. But perhaps the scariest fact of all, is the lackluster performance of Martin Brodeur. While he certainly isn't terrible, he is on pace for one of his worst professional campaigns. You have to point the finger at the players in front of him. When all is said and done, this hall of fame goaltender will have been the best to ever play the game. The numbers don't lie. However, even the best ever can't stop them all. Without support from the players in front of him the only thing the devils will win this year is a lottery pick...which they will have to forfeit, and the earliest tee time come April.

Give it up for the Florida Panthers. While the record is more of what you expect from this team, they are playing much better than those numbers suggest. This team has pounded the dynamic Tampa Bay Lightning 6-0 and put up another goose egg against the Flames. With Dale Tallon at the helm, this team is going to be building in a similar style to the Blackhawks, Tallon's former team. Providing they avoid the cap trouble the afflicted the Hawks after their cup win, Florida can be built into a contender. With Washington and Tampa Bay as division rivals, I can't be too optimistic for their chances of making the playoffs, especially when as of right now, you're second leading scorer is a defenseman. However, I think that the Panthers should be making the playoffs soon. Stock up on your rats, Florida.

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