| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| n/a |
Posted - 07/12/2011 : 10:41:41
Which Eastern Conference playoff teams from last year is most likely to fall out of the playoffs this year?
Add any other teams you think will fall out of the playoff picture in your comment, and let us know who you think will move up to take their place.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
| 40 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Beans15 |
Posted - 08/01/2011 : 12:03:24
quote:
Originally posted by The Duke
Leafs will finish 6th or 7th this year  ....the usual top 5 - 6 teams will remain there.
Don`t forget people that in the second half of last years season the leafs were 2nd in NHL points, ( from the all - star break on ).....2nd only to the SJ sharks.
Not saying they are the NHL`s second best team but they did do really well for a long stretch after the all - star break...and with a PP that was non - existent.
Hopefully this is a good indicator for the up - coming season.
Typical. Hey Duke, care to prove this 2nd most posts comments?? They did have that distinction at one point after the All Star break, but not at the end of the season!!
Do the math. In fact, I've done it for you. TO has 42 points after the All Star break. San Jose, Vancouver, New Jersey, Buffalo, Washington, and Los Angeles has more points. All of those teams as well as Chicago, Pittsburgh, Boston, Phoenix, and Anaheim all has as many or more wins than the Leafs during that stretch as well. Toronto also took advantage of more overtime losses (6) than anyone except Florida, Columbus, and Philadelphia.
So, although I can not argue that TO was one of the better teams after the all star break, they did not have the 2nd most points. They were above average and took 3 wins worth of points by losing. |
| Guest0220 |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 22:40:56
1st - Philly: Solid depth at every position, first number solid one goalie since ron hextall.
2nd - Washington - See Philly, with more star power, Vokoun however will be shaky.
3rd - Boston - Best team in their division, Rask has a breakout year.
4th - Pittsburgh - Neck and neck race with philly throughout the season, only finishes 4th because of the way the playoffs work.
5th - New York - Gaborik finally lives up to potential with Richards.
6th - Montreal - Price holds an under achieving team together.
7th - Tampa Bay - Both goalies help to barley squeeze into playoffs.
8th - Winnipeg - Young team with lots of potential, and will be unstoppable at home. Pavelec breaks out, Vezina finalist.
9th - NYI - Young team, scores lots, but gets scored on lots.
10th - New Jersey - Brodeurs last stand. Overhaul coming up...
11th - Buffalo - Disappointing season from miller, and erhoff. Vanek gets traded.
12th - Toronto - Same old story here.
13th - Carolina - I'd rather have Pitkanen than Kaberle...
14th - Florida - The acquisitions of a bunch of 3rd/4th liners doesnt mean success.
15th - Ottawa - At least Sens fans will be able to wear Yakupov Jerseys.
---DEE |
| Pasty7 |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 21:16:12
the thing with the leafs is they are not good enough to have a bad half season, or even a bad quarter season, an example is the habs las season they were not good enough to come back from a bad stretch so they brought consistency to the table, i think it was after Christmas before the lost more than 2 games in a row, and throughout the entire season they only lost more than 2 in a row like 3 times,,, teams like the habs the leafs the canes the rangers they have to consistently win games and pick up extra points ,, and that is the problem with the leafs they havn`t been consistent enough,,, this year if they can play consistent good hockey and not string to many loses together they can make the playoffs,,
"I led the league in "Go get 'em next time." - Bob Uecker
|
| Guest4776 |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 20:34:42
quote:
Originally posted by Guest4271
Yeah, but they do that every year. Play like crap for the first half then play great when the pressure is off to make the playoffs.
Ok well they had an outside chance at making the playoffs so i dont see how the pressure was off them to not perform and not try to make the playoffs |
| Guest4271 |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 16:20:41
Yeah, but they do that every year. Play like crap for the first half then play great when the pressure is off to make the playoffs. |
| The Duke |
Posted - 07/31/2011 : 15:12:00
Leafs will finish 6th or 7th this year ....the usual top 5 - 6 teams will remain there.
Don`t forget people that in the second half of last years season the leafs were 2nd in NHL points, ( from the all - star break on ).....2nd only to the SJ sharks.
Not saying they are the NHL`s second best team but they did do really well for a long stretch after the all - star break...and with a PP that was non - existent.
Hopefully this is a good indicator for the up - coming season. |
| Guest4004 |
Posted - 07/30/2011 : 13:07:11
1. Washington- most fire power, all around better with new acquisitions, best team
2. Pittsburgh- Crosby is back, Malkin finds his old touch making them as good as anybody else
3. Boston- Basically only lost their soft players (ryder, kaberle) same tough team makes them a very good contender..again
4. Buffalo- Leino replaces Connolly, Regehr and Ehrhoff make them a better defensive team, MIller is back
5. Tampa- Similar to last years team, Stamkos and St. Louis have off seasons but depth gives them strength (no playoff run though....they lost bergenheim)
6. New Jersey- Parise, Kovalchuk find it... Larsson has great rookie year
7. Philadelphia- Squeak in but have early playoff exit after idiotic trades
8. Carolina- Eric Staal leads the charge as they just squeak in
------------------------------------------------------------------
9. New York Rangers-dissapoint all, fault at end of season, Lundqvist is great but him and richards cant carry the load
10. Montreal- Price is dissapointing, bad overall season
11. Toronto- Similar to last play hard with an outside chance but need one more year
12. Florida- Good year with new team
13. Winnipeg- it still is atlanta...
14. New York Islanders- same old same old
15. Ottawa- last place in league...1st overall pick
|
| Guest5052 |
Posted - 07/22/2011 : 09:09:43
My two cents:
1- Wash. the pick of the litter and Vokoun is a very good pick up. We'll see if that translates into any playoff success.
2.Pitt I think their good and with Malkin Crosby back theyre a cup contender... although I am not sure they will exceed last years point total.
3.Bos. Some cup hangover but think they'll be the best team in their division.
4. Philly. Big losses, big pick ups but should be a playoff team.
5. NJ. I thik Parise and Kovalchuk will have good years. Brodeur may be a weakness (I know blasphemy)
6Buff. some imporvements and they do play a disciplined style. Miller is lights out good.
7. TB Good talent, good young coach, still their D needs to improve.
8.will be fought bw MTL and NYR and I'll give the Nod to NYR with Richards (and Lundqvist in net) I like Price and think MTL has a decent squad, but cant put them ahead of anyone else here.
9. MTL
10. Leafs. Getting better but same thing - dont see them as better than anyone above.
11. Winnipeg - will be cheering for them, but any success will be based on discipline and hard work and hype. Not enough to make it
12. car. Not enough depth
13. NYI Some good talent but need a winning mentality. They havent got that yet.
14. FLA good GM, but will take time.
15. Ottawa. Needs to rebuild |
| fat_elvis_rocked |
Posted - 07/22/2011 : 08:02:44
Okay, time to throw my 2 cents in, as my friend Slozo says, you can't brag, or mock anyone else's
prognostications without making your own as well.
How I see the East next season;
1) Pittsburgh Penguins
If Crosby and Malkin are at all ready to play, they give this team all it needs to tear up the standings. Neal and Kunitz reap the rewards of their health, and Staal goes back to being one Of the premier defensive forwards in the game. Continuing emergence of Letang and any consistency out of Fleury, and they are the team to beat.
2) Washington Capitals
A proven goaltender and some nice pickups of defensively responsible role players and all of a sudden, their weak points….aren’t. If Ovechkin returns to any former form, they should vie for top spot in the East.
3) Boston Bruins
If it ain’t broke……
4) New Jersey Devils
They have to fiinish better in the standings with that front line talent, and if the end of last season was any indication, and Brodeur gets any inspiration from the ageless Tim Thomas, they will be much improved
5) Buffalo Sabres
Improved scoring, improved Defense, world class goaltender, improved standing.
6) NY Rangers
Richards and Gaborik, Rogers and Hammerstein, Gilbert and Sullivan..sounds like another successful Broadway duo.
7) Tampa Bay Lightning
Enough firepower and solid team concept, that even if old man Rollie struggles, they should still win their fair share.
8) Philadelphia Flyers
I keep hearing about their depth, but losing the marquee players they did at the same time, along with an aging and lately injury bitten Pronger.... Unless Bryzgalov is the real deal, they will slide a bit, but still hang on to a playoff spot.
9) Montreal Canadiens – Price will be good, just not quite enough
10) Carolina Hurricanes – Eric Staal, Skinner and………….
11) Toronto Maple Leafs – Still not there, Connolly not enough to make them contend for real.
12) Florida Panthers – Could just as easily make the playoffs if the new team gels at all, but….
13) Winnipeg Jets - Lots of excitement, tons of support, they’re gonna need it.
14) NY Islanders - Ugh! Wait! They may get Yashin back!!!! Okay…still Ugh!
15) Ottawa Senators – Not sure what goes on here….Spezza may be the new Marcel Dionne.
|
| Guest6373 |
Posted - 07/21/2011 : 07:33:41
1. Boston
2. Philly
3. Tampa
4. Washington
5. NY Rangers
6. Buffalo
7. Carolina
8. Winnipeg
--------------------
9. Pittsburgh
10. New Jersey
11. Montreal
12. Florida
13. NY Islanders
14. Ottawa
15. Toronto |
| n/a |
Posted - 07/20/2011 : 05:40:32
quote:
Originally posted by Guest7326
quote:
. they just. Need. To. Make. The. Playoffs.
Nothing else is acceptable at this point for me. And, I think for them as well . . . which is why I am looking at a good year.
I hope. (hard gulp)
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
As a self-proclaimed Leafs sympathizer, I gotta point at the elephant sitting on the couch over there. Is Brian Burke respected among the other GM's in the league, or is he being ostracized for playing by his own rules?
Seems to me that his self-righteousness has hurt his reputation. It's one thing to be outspoken, but when the chips are down, nobody likes an a$$hole.
I don't think Burke potentially being ostracised by other GMs is an issue, and I don't think it has anything to do with the Eastern Conference predictions here.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
| Guest4312 |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 10:42:38
slozo i wouldn't be putting the future of your fan-loyalty on this season. the leafs are still very much unproven. who knows how this season goes. as a canadian i cheer for all the canadian teams to make the playoffs but realistically the leafs will probably end up right around the same spot they did last year. who knows if reimer can handle that many games? who knows if the top two lines can repeat or build on last year? who knows what injuries the team might run into? lots of unanswered questions, they look like a good team on paper but depth is another issue IMO |
| Beans15 |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 09:13:27
I think that there are definitely GM's that don't appreciate the opinions and the bullying that Burke appears to do in the media. He is heavily opinionated and doesn't mind sharing those opinions. I can see how some would view that.
I can think specifically of Kevin Lowe. Just because Brian Burke doesn't agree with offer sheets doesn't mean they are against the rules. Burke spouted his mouth off like a meatball calling Kevin Lowe every name in the book. Does that not limit Burkes trading abilities?? What happens if and when an Oiler player is an asset that Burke may want/need?? What happens if an offer comes across Burke's desk from the Oilers that is agreeable??
Burke is an aquired taste. Some love'em, others hate'em. But Burke can't be the only GM like that. I am all but certain that some GM's just don't like other GM's. |
| nuxfan |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 09:04:35
quote:
As a self-proclaimed Leafs sympathizer, I gotta point at the elephant sitting on the couch over there. Is Brian Burke respected among the other GM's in the league, or is he being ostracized for playing by his own rules?
Seems to me that his self-righteousness has hurt his reputation. It's one thing to be outspoken, but when the chips are down, nobody likes an a$$hole.
Why do you think Burke is being ostracized? |
| Guest7326 |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 09:02:03
quote:
. they just. Need. To. Make. The. Playoffs.
Nothing else is acceptable at this point for me. And, I think for them as well . . . which is why I am looking at a good year.
I hope. (hard gulp)
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
As a self-proclaimed Leafs sympathizer, I gotta point at the elephant sitting on the couch over there. Is Brian Burke respected among the other GM's in the league, or is he being ostracized for playing by his own rules?
Seems to me that his self-righteousness has hurt his reputation. It's one thing to be outspoken, but when the chips are down, nobody likes an a$$hole. |
| Beans15 |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 08:26:32
I appreciate the sportsmanship Slozo and I will take you up on your offer. Unfortunately, as I still have 10ish days to complete the terms of our last bet, I will reserve the wager until such time as I can make it proudly. That is, without this Leaf avatar attached to my name.
I will put serious consideration into the terms of this bet. |
| n/a |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 07:47:08
quote:
Originally posted by Pasty7
quote:
Originally posted by slozo
Guys, I don't think I can take another year of Toronto missing the playoffs. I really can't . . . and I don't think they can either.
If the Leafs miss again this year, I may just throw in the towel on the buds for a bit and cheer for someone else . . . that being said, I am going to lay it ALL ON THE LINE and predict with confidence that they make the playoffs this year.
Now, I know the majority of you predict Toronto on the outside again looking in . . . so I am taking wagers.
Beans, you have first crack, especially since you have lost to me twice in a row on the Leafers and their position, only fair you have first crack at revenge (or utter and complete defeat, of course). And, of course, you are my arch-nemesis, naturally.
We may have to design new and more humiliating avatars for the loser in this case . . . I am open to suggestions.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
i think you may be right but with one exception if by chance the east looks like the west did last year and they finish with say 95 points and just miss the playoff i think the team and it s fans can be happy with the strides they have taken to improve since they hit rock bottom
"I led the league in "Go get 'em next time." - Bob Uecker
At this point, no - I would not be satisfied. Not as a fan of the team, and not as a hockey analyst (amateur) looking at the team on paper and evaluating them.
I think they should be a playoff team, period - no matter how they get there, whether it's as high as 4th in the conference, or a tie for 8th spot with edge going to the Leafs on the third tie-breaker. 85 points, or 95 points . . . they just. Need. To. Make. The. Playoffs.
Nothing else is acceptable at this point for me. And, I think for them as well . . . which is why I am looking at a good year.
I hope. (hard gulp)
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
| Pasty7 |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 06:00:33
quote:
Originally posted by slozo
Guys, I don't think I can take another year of Toronto missing the playoffs. I really can't . . . and I don't think they can either.
If the Leafs miss again this year, I may just throw in the towel on the buds for a bit and cheer for someone else . . . that being said, I am going to lay it ALL ON THE LINE and predict with confidence that they make the playoffs this year.
Now, I know the majority of you predict Toronto on the outside again looking in . . . so I am taking wagers.
Beans, you have first crack, especially since you have lost to me twice in a row on the Leafers and their position, only fair you have first crack at revenge (or utter and complete defeat, of course). And, of course, you are my arch-nemesis, naturally.
We may have to design new and more humiliating avatars for the loser in this case . . . I am open to suggestions.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
i think you may be right but with one exception if by chance the east looks like the west did last year and they finish with say 95 points and just miss the playoff i think the team and it s fans can be happy with the strides they have taken to improve since they hit rock bottom
"I led the league in "Go get 'em next time." - Bob Uecker
|
| n/a |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 05:43:31
Guys, I don't think I can take another year of Toronto missing the playoffs. I really can't . . . and I don't think they can either.
If the Leafs miss again this year, I may just throw in the towel on the buds for a bit and cheer for someone else . . . that being said, I am going to lay it ALL ON THE LINE and predict with confidence that they make the playoffs this year.
Now, I know the majority of you predict Toronto on the outside again looking in . . . so I am taking wagers.
Beans, you have first crack, especially since you have lost to me twice in a row on the Leafers and their position, only fair you have first crack at revenge (or utter and complete defeat, of course). And, of course, you are my arch-nemesis, naturally.
We may have to design new and more humiliating avatars for the loser in this case . . . I am open to suggestions.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
| Pasty7 |
Posted - 07/19/2011 : 05:07:19
lets give it a whirl then
1- Buffalo Sabres - Best coached team in the eastern conference if not the league, top 3 goalie in the world, a couple key additions in the off season, predict Brad Boyes scores 35 this season
2- Washington Capitals - this team is just scary good
3- The pens Crosby will go on the same tear he was last year excaqpt this year he will do it for 82 games
4- Boston Bruins this team is deep really deep but look for Thomas to falter a little and Rask begin his take over
5-Philly despite the loss of their big centers they are deep enough
6- Montreal under estimated at every turn but managed a sixth place finish last year while missing key players for a signifigant amounts of time, look for Cammalleri to have a bounce back year and Eller to break out
7- Rangers, I predict a slow start but them being one of the best teams in the NHL after x mas , Lundquvist will be his usual MVP self
8- New jersey - I retract my previous statement beans they will squeak in on the last day, Brodeur has a off year
teams who fought hard untill the last days of the season for the 8th spot , Toronto, Tampa, Florida , Islanders
"I led the league in "Go get 'em next time." - Bob Uecker
|
| semin-rules |
Posted - 07/18/2011 : 13:04:57
Haha oops
yes I think the Islanders fit very well into the ghost 11th spot.
|
| Leafs81 |
Posted - 07/18/2011 : 10:46:29
Ok I like those thread. Here it is
1 Washington the acquisition of Vokoun is all they needed this is their year. They will win the cup
2. Pittsburgh finishes off strong and fights for top in the east. Phillys centers are finally no match for Crosby and Malkin
3. Boston really what other team in the northeast could beat them. They are still young and Savard might be back.
4.NY Rangers. Even without Richards they were a good all around team. Lundqvist wins the Vezina.
5. Buffalo A well improved team and they have Miller
6. Philly Takes a step back but still has too much talent to be out.
7. Tampa Bay They will also take a step back after a great playoff run. They are looking for a backup and Stamkos struggles.
8. Toronto If if and if
Fighting for it are New Jersey Montreal and Carolina |
| Beans15 |
Posted - 07/18/2011 : 09:11:13
quote:
Originally posted by Alex116
Semin, does that mean NYI are 16th?  Do you think they're so bad they're not worth mentioning or something? 
I am also wondering if there is no team good enough to be 11th??
Winnipeg will be 10th and Toronto 12th.  |
| Alex116 |
Posted - 07/18/2011 : 09:02:36
Semin, does that mean NYI are 16th? Do you think they're so bad they're not worth mentioning or something? |
| semin-rules |
Posted - 07/16/2011 : 16:16:12
1. Washington - solid tender will put them first and passed the first round
2. Pittsburgh - will look for something to prove after last year, Crosby will be flying
3. Boston - May start off a little hungover from last year but will bounce back in the second half and have another great season
4. Buffalo - If Miller can prove he wants to win, with their new additions, Buffalo will be right up there
5. Tampa Bay - After they sign Stamkos, and with their new goalies, they will be right where they were last year
6. NY Rangers - Brad Richards will not disappoint and score 40+ goals and lead the Rangers to a conference finals
7. Montreal - Solid team, can't really deny they are good, if Price stays strong.
8. New Jersey - After their dismal season, they will come out flying, slow down near the all-star break and barely make it in thanks to Brodeur.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. Philly - They are now going to be re-building and they put up a good effort but do not make it. Bryzgalov has a career year though.
10. Winnipeg - They come out flying in the first half, staying 5th and 6th in the conference for a long time, but start to lose a few games and then fall short in the very end
12. Toronto - They are doing all the right things, however need about one more year to make the top 16
13. Florida - Big changes down south, have potential to do well at the start of the year, putting up some wins, but the lack of fan support causes the team to lose focus and not care
14. Carolina - Not too many changes, Have a struggling season, just like NJ last year
15. Ottawa - Nothing is going right in the nations capital and I think one more year of another bad season and the oldies will be done and then the Sens will start the rebuild stage
West predictions coming up next :D
|
| sahis34 |
Posted - 07/16/2011 : 14:55:15
1. Washington
2. Pittsburgh
3. Buffalo
4. Tampa Bay
5. Boston
6. New Jersey
7. NY Rangers
8. Montreal
--------------------
9. Toronto
10. Winnipeg
11. Philly
12. Carolina
13. Ottawa
14. Florida
15. NY Islanders
Go OILERS Go!!! |
| ryan93 |
Posted - 07/16/2011 : 14:04:08
quote:
Originally posted by Beans15
I think the question about Richards is more about coming off the concussion than his effort and desire. But his health has been more than just the concussion. He has also broken his left hand and right wrist in the past.
Personally, I have a soft spot for the Rangers. Might go back from the old Oiler days and with so many former Oilers going to play there. I like the make up that team. I think Anisimov is slated for a break out year and I can see him playing with Richards and Gaborik. I like Callahan and Dubinsky a lot and that Boyle dude is huge and knows how to play defensive hockey. Their keeper is top notch-world class. However, I am not a huge fan of their defensive group. I think it's missing a key piece but I am not sure if it is a shut down guy or a puck mover. Regardless, they have been a playoff team in most of the past 5 seasons but often get there by the skin of their teeth. I think this year they move past that point and get in comfortably. I see them in and around the 6th spot.
Dan Girardi & Marc Staal form one of the best shutdown tandems in the NHL today. Without question though, they could use a puckmover from the back end. It's looking less likely everyday that that guy will come from outside the organization, so the hope must be that either Tim Erixon or Michael Del Zotto can come in & contibute in a big way this season. |
| Oilearl |
Posted - 07/16/2011 : 10:47:07
1. Washington
2. Pittsburg
3. Boston
4. Buffalo
5. Tampa
6. NY Rangers
7. Philly
8. Carolina
9. - 15. in order NJ, Montreal, Islanders, Toronto, Florida, Winnipeg, Ottawa.
6 to 14 will be close and in the hunt for a playoff spot.
|
| Porkchop73 |
Posted - 07/16/2011 : 08:27:51
My predictions for the East:
Pitt
Wash
Boston
Tampa
Buffalo
Philly
Montreal
NYR
Toronto
NJ
Carolina
Islanders
Winnipeg
Ottawa
Florida
The top 6 in the east are easy prediction IMO. Montreal to TO seperated by 2 points. NJ and Carolina finish in a tie 1 point back of TO. Ottawa and Florida will battle Edm in the west for the #1 pick at the end of the season. |
| nuxfan |
Posted - 07/15/2011 : 11:21:16
I don't think I have a bad vibe about Richards - he is one of the pre-eminent centres in the league, and I think he'll end up doing well in NY. It just might not be next year, or next year might be an average year for him. He moves into the #1 centre role next year, and will be expected to find chemistry with Gaborik fast - and as we saw with Kovy last year, that doesn't always happen right away. I would not be surprised to see them struggle for the first 20 games or so, before finding rhythm.
As for BUF, I think Ehrhoff will see his production decline - he is coming from the top offensive team in the league - but I don't think he'll be a bust per say. I've watched him enough over the last 2 years to recognize that he has talent as an offensive defenseman, but also requires others around him to be good as well - Vancouver defensemen who play on the PP benefit a lot from the Sedin's and Kesler, so he's going to need to benefit from Roy/Pominville/Vanek. He is responsible defensively, and although he doesn't use his full size can throw his weight around. However, he would have to win the Norris trophy next year to even come close to living up to a 9M paycheque, and for that reason I think he will be seen as somewhat of a disappointment.
But I do think that both BUF and NYR will make the playoffs. I just don't see either one doing much better in the conference than they did last year. |
| n/a |
Posted - 07/15/2011 : 10:45:14
Same as what nuxfan just said. And I realise I did waffle a bit on the Rangers making or not making the playoffs this year.
Big changes which bring in star players is no guarantee of team success. See: Kovalchuk to New Jersey. See: Jokinen to Calgary. See Gaborik to the Rangers.
Players OFTEN underperform after signing long, large contracts.
Players often don't mesh with new teammates (although I would say it's easier for a playmaker as opposed to a goalscorer).
I just started getting a bit of a bad vibe about Richards, and I don't know if it was the media's fault or not, but . . . he seemed so spiteful of Dallas and Nieuwendyk; he seemed so greedy about the terms and money he was asking for; and he seemed to already have made up his mind, in the end, to play for the Rangers.
I am just not feeling the karma . . . and in the end, the Rangers could well miss out because of it. But it really is so hard to tell.
On Buffalo - same thing, except with defencemen, it's even harder to adjust, and I know this first hand watching Toronto's new and departed d-men. There is a longer adjustment period.
I think either one of Ehrhoff or young Leino will be a bust, IMHO. Leaning towards Ehrhoff.
But it's so hard to predict these things, and I could be way off . . . just like I was about Washington clearing room for Vokoun who
oh. wait. I was right about that one
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
| nuxfan |
Posted - 07/15/2011 : 08:55:37
quote:
I'm curious & this is to the general population who believe that the Sabres & Rangers will be on the outside looking in how two teams that have been steady playoff teams the last 5 yrs; minus a last day miss two yrs ago, acquires the likes of Brad Richards, Ehroff & Regher all of a sudden become weaker & unable to finish ahead of teams like the Devils, Hurricanes & Leafs?
I recall thinking that NJ would win their division at the beginning of 2010/11, and look what happened there. Who could have known a team that only got better in the offseason could suck so badly for the first 40 games?
Teams that make big changes in the offseason - even those that change for the best - can sometimes struggle out of the gate. BUF and NYR both made big changes this offseason, either in terms of number of new faces or calibre of new faces. The next question will be how do those big faces all mesh together to form a team? |
| Mario 66 |
Posted - 07/15/2011 : 08:24:54
Slozo, its funny you bring up the Rangers, cuz I was about to make a thread on them as it appears many people have them missing the playoffs including yourself earlier in the thread.
I'm curious & this is to the general population who believe that the Sabres & Rangers will be on the outside looking in how two teams that have been steady playoff teams the last 5 yrs; minus a last day miss two yrs ago, acquires the likes of Brad Richards, Ehroff & Regher all of a sudden become weaker & unable to finish ahead of teams like the Devils, Hurricanes & Leafs?
Obviously, this does not include all & everybody's entitled to their own perspective, but I have the Rangers & Sabres battling the Flyers for the 4 spot, so I rather baffled that others could have them dropping so low. Please state your reasoning as to why those of you believe they will drop so low.
Every journey begins with a single step. |
| Beans15 |
Posted - 07/15/2011 : 07:26:17
I think the question about Richards is more about coming off the concussion than his effort and desire. But his health has been more than just the concussion. He has also broken his left hand and right wrist in the past.
Personally, I have a soft spot for the Rangers. Might go back from the old Oiler days and with so many former Oilers going to play there. I like the make up that team. I think Anisimov is slated for a break out year and I can see him playing with Richards and Gaborik. I like Callahan and Dubinsky a lot and that Boyle dude is huge and knows how to play defensive hockey. Their keeper is top notch-world class. However, I am not a huge fan of their defensive group. I think it's missing a key piece but I am not sure if it is a shut down guy or a puck mover. Regardless, they have been a playoff team in most of the past 5 seasons but often get there by the skin of their teeth. I think this year they move past that point and get in comfortably. I see them in and around the 6th spot. |
| n/a |
Posted - 07/15/2011 : 05:14:37
I don't want to make this a Leafs-talk-only thread here, as they aren't the only team on the playoff bubble that has a chance to make it this year.
I want to bring up the Rangers, who are another team that look, on paper, very much improved.
Is there a possibility for a massive failure by Richards here? It's not like it hasn't happened before in New York, and now that Brad is getting paid for the next 9 years guarantedd . . . I don't really see him making a big jump in his numbers. He's in his prime, and may play with Gaborik . . . but that isn't a guarantee of success.
Still, their defence has improved year by year, Lundqvist is still a top goalie that will steal games . . . and they look to be a playoff team no matter what, IMHO.
Question is, how high can they go? If the new offensive pieces gel . . . could they fight for the division, actually? No one has talked about it, but I certainly see it as a possibility.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
| TheRC |
Posted - 07/14/2011 : 13:01:23
quote:
Originally posted by Guest4086
sure Reimer has to be good all year, but the one big thing that is keeping the Leafs on the outside looking in year after year is their PP & PK. finishing in or near the basement every year in these two categories is recipe for disaster. if these don't improve then it'll be 9th or lower again.
I actually consider that a reason for optimism. The Leafs' special teams have sucked pretty bad for years now. I wouldn't have believed it, but after Kaberle's performance with Boston during the playoffs it's hard not to suspect that his powerplay skills were grossly over-rated (or at least painfully predictable) and that over-reliance on his puck distribution was at least part of the reason for year after year of weak powerplays. There is some new blood on defense, and room for somebody to step up and fill the void created by Kaberle's departure. That may just improve things. Hell, there's really no way it could be worse!
Playing the same hockey as last year, which included a few good streaks, but just as many losing skids, and a bunch of close games where better specialty teams would have made the difference, I'm certain that *any* improvement in powerplay or penalty killing will translate to the half a dozen more wins the Leafs will need to squeeze in to a playoff spot.
I guess with the last of the old team he inhereted gone, we're going to find out if Ron Wilson can coach a powerplay or not.
"If at first you don't succeed, you fail" |
| Guest4086 |
Posted - 07/14/2011 : 11:32:11
sure Reimer has to be good all year, but the one big thing that is keeping the Leafs on the outside looking in year after year is their PP & PK. finishing in or near the basement every year in these two categories is recipe for disaster. if these don't improve then it'll be 9th or lower again. |
| Alex116 |
Posted - 07/14/2011 : 11:06:09
quote:
Originally posted by slozo
Small point here, but I do believe your reasoning is a bit off here.
"All year"? Reimer started 35 games, played in 37, and made his very first start of the year on January 1, 2011.
The other goalies for the Leafs? Giguere, who put up an amazing record of 11-11-4, and Gustavsson, 6-13-2. Their combined record was 17 wins, 24 losses, 6 OT losses, for 47 games of no Reimer.
Now, you may figure Reimer's play will slip this year, and that's all a fine prediction and whatnot, and possible - but even if his play doesn't quite equal last year's 20 win, 10 loss, 5 OTL record over a full season - it'll still be a lot better than last year's stats from Giggy and Gustavsson.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
Slozo...maybe i worded it poorly, or have read your reply wrong but i wasn't implying Reimer played the entire season last year. I was implying that he plays this whole season, but doesn't play 60+ games at the same rate / with the same success, as he did last year (in the games he did play). I see him taking a small step back and putting up closer to .500 numbers, thus leaving the backups to do as well or better to have the leafs at or around a .500 mark yet again (prob slightly better than .500).
Ignore the OT losses for a second and take the combined 17-24 record of the "other" goalies. Now, make it 21-20 assuming they won 4 more than they did and played at basically a .500 clip. With those 8 more points, the Leafs still miss the playoffs in a tie breaker to NYR. So, basically, if you get .500 hockey out of your backup(s), which i'd assume a team in the Leafs position would be happy with, Reimer would still need to play his ass off to get them in the mix.
All i'm saying is i think he struggles a little with the pressure this year and takes a small step backwards (if that's even fair to say, considering he only played half a season).
|
| Guest4312 |
Posted - 07/14/2011 : 10:41:38
"but I think the difference maker will be the heart and hype put behind the team... those fans are gonna be thirsty for hockey and i believe that at least in this first season I think Winnipeg surprises everyone and squeezes into a playoff spot at the end of the year.. They'll narrowly take 8th"
I would bet they will be one of the best teams at home and one of the worst on the road (for this season at least with the horrible travel they will have to put up with).... as for the playoffs i could see it happening but i wouldn't bet on it. out of the top 10 teams in the east they have one of the worst goaltending |
| Beans15 |
Posted - 07/14/2011 : 09:45:45
quote:
Originally posted by slozo
Addressing Beans' point - again, valid point, but . . . how many times can a team go uphill against all expectation, all expert reasoning, and still succeed? That is why I make my prediction that this time, if the two centers are gone or diminished for a good portion of time . . . I think the team won't be able to do a repeat, miracle performance.
And it WAS a miracle performance, last year. I give them a tonne of credit. But I think they will still make it, but it'll be close, as they finish between 8-6th.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
I can't think of a post made in the past 2 years that I can disagree with most. I mean, for a guy as bright and articulate as Slozo to not see Pitt for what they are is simply baffling to me.
Starting in net, MA Fleury has been one of the most consistent performers over the past 4 seasons.
Looking at defense, I would strongly suggest that Letang, Orpik, Martin, and Michalek are every bit as good a top 4 defensemen group as any in the NHL. Not saying best, but every bit as good. Top 5 to 10 easily
Looking at their forwards, without considering Crosby and Malkin (Staal, Kunitz, Neal, Letestu, Dupuis, Cooke, Asham, Kennedy) would be somewhere in the middle of the league in talent. When you add in 2 of the top 5 forwards in the NHL today into the mix, they are in the top 10.
How can a team 'overacheive" who have done the same thing year over year for the past 4 season?? Sure, many thought they would tank after Crosby and Malkin were both out and that was a surprise, but they are a good team regardless.
I slightly see your point but you are assuming both Crosby and Malkin are certainly out. Malkin is healthy today. Crosby is partipating in the same work-out schedule that he has in the summer for his entire career. What theory do you have as to why they are both going to be out long term??? |
|
|
