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redneck76ca
Rookie
186 Posts |
 Posted - 08/21/2009 : 14:08:59
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Since I've joined this site I have noticed that the majority of the banter is with regards to the Leafs and the Habs. What I would like to know is what everyone's opinions are regarding ALL the Canadian teams and how they will fare in the 09/10 NHL Season. Predictions? Rankings? Which team will be tops and which team will be the bottom feeder. So, lets get this thing rolling.
What are your predictions?
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Sensfan101
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
500 Posts |
Posted - 08/21/2009 : 14:24:28
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1. Calgary will be the top Canadian team and finish 3rd in the West their defence will be strong but they will have trouble scoring goals with the loss of Cammelari
2. Vancouver will be the second best Canadian team finishing 5th overall Luongo will be relied on alot and will carry this team to a deep playoff run
3. Ottawa with the additions of Pascal Leclaire and Alex Kovalev this team should be able to finish up to 6th but not if the Heatley distraction gets in the way of their play
4. Edmonton no major changes other than the swap in net but a young team gets one year better and the Oilers finish 8th
5. Montreal with lack of size up front and solid defenceman Montreal will be looking at about 10th place also I predict one of their big three will be injured
6. Toronto finishes 13th gets another solid draft pick but struggles to put the puck in the net one of their defencemen gets moved at the deadline and they take another step in the right direction
You miss 100 percent of the shots you don't take Wayne Gretzky |
Edited by - Sensfan101 on 08/21/2009 14:26:11 |
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redneck76ca
Rookie
186 Posts |
Posted - 08/21/2009 : 15:03:23
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I forgot to post my predictions.
1. Canucks will finish atop all Canadian teams on Luongo's shoulders. The loss of Ohlund will not be felt as much as expected as Edler will step up to fill his shoes. (Hopefully, Mathieu Schneider signs and this will greatly improve their PP)
1st in the Northwest, 3rd in the West overall
2. The Flames will be a point or two behind the 'Nucks at season's end. Although the defensive corps is strong, the lack of goal scoring will be an issue with Jarome and the rest of the top line not getting the support needed from the other three lines to topple the Canucks.
2nd in the Northwest, 5th in the West overall.
3. The Habs having only improved marginally will have some growing pains as the chemistry of the team is in doubt. Provided Price can handle the pressure the Habs should be playoff bound, and if he can't expect to see Halak take over the reigns with much the same result.
2nd in the Northeast, 7th or 8th overall in the East.
4, 5, 6. I think that the lower half of the Canadian teams will be close with Edmonton likely being the best of the worst. The Bulin wall will give them the edge over Toronto and Ottawa but all three teams will miss the playoffs for yet another year. I expect that they will finish between 9-11th in their respective conferences with the Leafs making a push late in the season but falling short in the end.
Edmonton 4th in the Northwest, 9th overall in the West
Toronto 4th in the Northeast, 9th or 10th overall in the East*
Ottawa 5th in the Northeast, 13th overall in the East*
*These rankings could change quickly if Burke can move a dman for a bonafide top 6 forward making them more competitive, and if Murray can move The Heater and get good value in return. |
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redneck76ca
Rookie
186 Posts |
Posted - 08/21/2009 : 15:12:18
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quote:
Originally posted by Sensfan101
1. Calgary will be the top Canadian team and finish 3rd in the West their defence will be strong but they will have trouble scoring goals with the loss of Cammelari
2. Vancouver will be the second best Canadian team finishing 5th overall Luongo will be relied on alot and will carry this team to a deep playoff run
3. Ottawa with the additions of Pascal Leclaire and Alex Kovalev this team should be able to finish up to 6th but not if the Heatley distraction gets in the way of their play
4. Edmonton no major changes other than the swap in net but a young team gets one year better and the Oilers finish 8th
5. Montreal with lack of size up front and solid defenceman Montreal will be looking at about 10th place also I predict one of their big three will be injured
6. Toronto finishes 13th gets another solid draft pick but struggles to put the puck in the net one of their defencemen gets moved at the deadline and they take another step in the right direction
You miss 100 percent of the shots you don't take Wayne Gretzky
I don't see how Ottawa or Edmonton have improved to the point that they are playoff bound. How does Leclaire and Kovy make then go from 11th to as high as 6th in the East? Leclaire has had one good year, and the very next year gets injured and is replaced by a rookie (albeit an excellent rookie). Ottawa didn't even address their need for a puck moving defenceman and will have to rely on one line (again) to provide all their offense. They MAY have improved but not by much. Edmonton only added the Bulin wall, and although I think Quinn et al will have this team playing better hockey they will need Horcoff, Cogs, Gagner etc etc ALL to recover from weak season to improve... this is not likely.
The Habs lack a solid dman? I guess Markov, Mara, Spacek, Gorges are flimsy? They have a way better D corp than the Sens. And they have 3 puck moving defenseman. There is no way the Sens outpoint the Habs and I would be surprised to see them outpoint the lowly Leafs. |
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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
Posted - 08/22/2009 : 16:01:56
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My Predictions For Teams in Canada:
1. Calgary
Kipper bounces back with a solid showing, and most importantly, Keenan isn't around. Iginla and Langkow go back to scoring more, and no one mentions Cammalleri again when the playoffs start and the Flames have second or third seed.
2. Vancouver
I say they make the playoffs, but not by much, as the west gets very, very tight. Kesler and Burrows continue to lead their youth movement, but they do miss their old D a bit. Finish 6th or 7th seed.
3. Toronto
I know, I know . . . supposedly, the Buds have no scoring. But Burke has been true to his word so far with everything he's done, and I have to make my prediction thinking that a scoring forward or two will be added. They won't be superstars, but it'll make the team full of 20 goal guys. Defence and goaltending will make this team very competetive, and with a totally new attitude the Leafs will surprise. Finish 7th, but please don't ask for a wager on this one!.
4. Montreal
I know, I know . . . the Habs should be at least as good as last year, well, I gotchya - that's exactly where I put them. They look better in some places, but it will take some time to gel, and some of the forwards will get pushed around a bit. 8th, almost tied with the Leafs.
5. Ottawa
Kovalev won't fix your mojo, Sens fans, sorry! Still a very weak D (don't know what young guys they have coming up) and an aging Alfie will really hurt the Sens, along with all the negative stuff with Heatley. This prediction could be my worst, if Heatley is actually traded for a solid d-man and a scoring forward for the second line. Still, I'll stick with Heatley staying and creating loads of drama . . . which Ottawa seems to like. 10th.
6. Edmonton
Sad to say, but I think this is the year when Edmonton hits rock bottom. I am not confident that Khabi can stay healthy at this age, their scoring is weak, and their D isn't great. They have over achieved almost every year, and I think this is the year they just don't perform, despite the coaching and managerial changes. 13th, sadly.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
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hanley6
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
674 Posts |
Posted - 08/22/2009 : 17:40:18
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I have a different thought on this one than most people I actually believe Toronto and Edmonton both now have a shot at making the playoffs. Toronto has an all together scoring team, Solid D and with the Monster and McDonald added they now have solid goaltending I truly do believe Gustavsson will be the number 1 goalie for the Leafs. I'd like to see Toronto dump Toskala to save salary cap...
Edmonton now has an excellent coach, I have a lot of faith in Pat Quinn as he turned what should have been the worst ever Leaf team in 1998-99 to a 2nd in Northeast and Conference Finalist in the Playoffs
...And the LEAFS Win the CUP |
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Alex116
PickupHockey Legend
6113 Posts |
Posted - 08/23/2009 : 00:47:27
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1. Calgary...should finish slightly ahead of Vancouver, but will be close again
2. Vancouver... A little worried about Luongo's contract extension talks but still all around decent team, good enough for 5-7 seed?
3. Montreal... Prob 7th or 8th but should still make the playoffs
4. Ottawa... Assuming Heatley's still there, just can't see them being as bad as last year. Might have a shot at 8th, but wouldn't be surprised to see them out of the playoffs again?
5. TO... Still think they're a year away from the playoffs (maybe 9th or 10th) but could squeeze in if things go their way?
6. Sorry Beans, it doesn't look too good in Frozenton again this year.... |
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Guest2253
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Posted - 08/24/2009 : 06:32:33
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1. Calgary : Like Slozo said Keenan isn't around anymore. This will make Kipper and Phaneuf play better. Plus they have Jokinen for a whole year. The addition of Bouwmeester will give them the best powerplay in the league. 3rd in west
2. Vancouver : A healthy Luongo can carry this team. 6th in west
3. Ottawa : This is if Leclaire stays healthy. I think the Heatly drama will wake up the team. Plus they will all improve AS A TEAM. 6th in the east
4. Montreal : The acquisitions won't make a better team. But the young guns will have a better year. Plekanec, Kostitsyns, Lapierre, Latendresse, Price and Halak. But they will lack of grit come playoffs time. The talent should buy them a playoff spot. 7th in east.
5. Edmonton : The Bullin wall is not an improvement from Roloson because it's his first year of the contract. But like Montreal some young guns might have a breakthrough season. And they need to trade one offensive d-men for a solid stay at home d. 8th in the east.
6. Toronto : Even though I'm a Leafs fan. This is not the year yet. Their powerplay will take a serious hit. And even though I like Burke I don't believe, with the tools he have, he'll be able to trade for a top 6 forward he doesn't already have. If he does he would have to trade Kaberle (then who moves the puck up the ice?), Schenn (The futur captain?), or a 1st round draft pick (I say keep this as this is a crucial part of the rebuild) So a solid defense corps, a good goalie tandem, production from all 4 lines, but lack of primary scoring and powerplay talent makes them miss the playoffs. 11th in east. |
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Seventy7Fifty2
Top Prospect
69 Posts |
Posted - 08/24/2009 : 07:17:28
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1 - Calgary: Phaneuf / Boumeaster / Regeher plus the Iginla machine makes them #1 Canadain team.
2 - Vancouver: Luongo is the man, but as last season proved - this team needs new blood up front. The twins can't do it all, and Sundin proved to be a bust. So they are not going to be Canada's #1 team.
3 - Toronto: Last season was probably not as a surprise as most will think. They had a decent shot at playoffs last year, and have a stronger D this year which will make the difference.
4 - Oilers: Keep your eyes on this team. Maybe the boolin wall and new coach is all it takes to get this young team's confidence going.
5 - Montreal: If they can jell and start scoring PP goals - they'll surprise a lot of leaf fans.
6 - Ottawa: Unfortunately, Kovalev is not what this team needed. Kovalev may make or break whatever is left of the Spezza-Heatly-Alfredsson magic - and my bet is that he will break whatever is left. |
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Alex116
PickupHockey Legend
6113 Posts |
Posted - 08/24/2009 : 22:31:50
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quote:
Originally posted by Seventy7Fifty2
1 - Calgary: Phaneuf / Boumeaster / Regeher plus the Iginla machine makes them #1 Canadain team.
2 - Vancouver: Luongo is the man, but as last season proved - this team needs new blood up front. The twins can't do it all, and Sundin proved to be a bust. So they are not going to be Canada's #1 team.
3 - Toronto: Last season was probably not as a surprise as most will think. They had a decent shot at playoffs last year, and have a stronger D this year which will make the difference.
4 - Oilers: Keep your eyes on this team. Maybe the boolin wall and new coach is all it takes to get this young team's confidence going.
5 - Montreal: If they can jell and start scoring PP goals - they'll surprise a lot of leaf fans.
6 - Ottawa: Unfortunately, Kovalev is not what this team needed. Kovalev may make or break whatever is left of the Spezza-Heatly-Alfredsson magic - and my bet is that he will break whatever is left.
WTF???
Did you not spend a week+ on the Gainey vs Burke thread INSISTING that "Gainey wins", "Gainey outclasses Burke", etc and claiming that the Habs will be better than TO this year? NOW, you're predicting them to finish below TO??? Am i confusing you with another poster?  |
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Seventy7Fifty2
Top Prospect
69 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 07:24:21
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quote:
Originally posted by Alex116
quote:
Originally posted by Seventy7Fifty2
1 - Calgary: Phaneuf / Boumeaster / Regeher plus the Iginla machine makes them #1 Canadain team.
2 - Vancouver: Luongo is the man, but as last season proved - this team needs new blood up front. The twins can't do it all, and Sundin proved to be a bust. So they are not going to be Canada's #1 team.
3 - Toronto: Last season was probably not as a surprise as most will think. They had a decent shot at playoffs last year, and have a stronger D this year which will make the difference.
4 - Oilers: Keep your eyes on this team. Maybe the boolin wall and new coach is all it takes to get this young team's confidence going.
5 - Montreal: If they can jell and start scoring PP goals - they'll surprise a lot of leaf fans.
6 - Ottawa: Unfortunately, Kovalev is not what this team needed. Kovalev may make or break whatever is left of the Spezza-Heatly-Alfredsson magic - and my bet is that he will break whatever is left.
WTF???
Did you not spend a week+ on the Gainey vs Burke thread INSISTING that "Gainey wins", "Gainey outclasses Burke", etc and claiming that the Habs will be better than TO this year? NOW, you're predicting them to finish below TO??? Am i confusing you with another poster?
Easy Alex.
I said Gainey did better then Burke, and Gainey wins over the moron Burke - AND i said Leafs suck and always sucked - AND i said Leafs will need 40+ more years to eventhink about getting close to a cup. But i didn't say Leafs would finish lower than Habs next season.
Funny how some people jump to conclusions...
Also, I NEVER SAID I WAS I HABS Fan either... :-)
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Alex116
PickupHockey Legend
6113 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 07:48:06
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quote:
Originally posted by Seventy7Fifty2
quote:
Originally posted by Alex116
quote:
Originally posted by Seventy7Fifty2
1 - Calgary: Phaneuf / Boumeaster / Regeher plus the Iginla machine makes them #1 Canadain team.
2 - Vancouver: Luongo is the man, but as last season proved - this team needs new blood up front. The twins can't do it all, and Sundin proved to be a bust. So they are not going to be Canada's #1 team.
3 - Toronto: Last season was probably not as a surprise as most will think. They had a decent shot at playoffs last year, and have a stronger D this year which will make the difference.
4 - Oilers: Keep your eyes on this team. Maybe the boolin wall and new coach is all it takes to get this young team's confidence going.
5 - Montreal: If they can jell and start scoring PP goals - they'll surprise a lot of leaf fans.
6 - Ottawa: Unfortunately, Kovalev is not what this team needed. Kovalev may make or break whatever is left of the Spezza-Heatly-Alfredsson magic - and my bet is that he will break whatever is left.
WTF???
Did you not spend a week+ on the Gainey vs Burke thread INSISTING that "Gainey wins", "Gainey outclasses Burke", etc and claiming that the Habs will be better than TO this year? NOW, you're predicting them to finish below TO??? Am i confusing you with another poster?
Easy Alex.
I said Gainey did better then Burke, and Gainey wins over the moron Burke - AND i said Leafs suck and always sucked - AND i said Leafs will need 40+ more years to eventhink about getting close to a cup. But i didn't say Leafs would finish lower than Habs next season.
Funny how some people jump to conclusions...
Also, I NEVER SAID I WAS I HABS Fan either... :-)
So, lemme get this right..... you continually said Gainey outclassed Burke and did more to improve his team than Burke did this off season? Well, as far as i see it, the Habs finished higher than the Leafs last year and therefore, by the opinion you stated above that i just reminded you of, they should again? I think this just proves you're here to:
a. Annoy people
b. Cause arguments
c. Be a troll
d. All of the above?
Hmmmm, gotta think this one through.....i'll get back to ya. |
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Seventy7Fifty2
Top Prospect
69 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 08:02:13
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Alex:
you're thinking too much, i can smell it from here...
stick to the topic in this forum please |
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Alex116
PickupHockey Legend
6113 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 12:39:27
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quote:
Originally posted by Seventy7Fifty2
Alex:
you're thinking too much, i can smell it from here...
stick to the topic in this forum please
S'all good, i'm done thinking........
D |
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Matt_Roberts85
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
936 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 13:41:04
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7752 I just read your last couple posts and I couldnt help but laugh out loud. You are a joker dude. ^_^
I wont go into detail.... heres a quick prediction
1. Vancouver
2. Calgary
3. Montreal
4. Toronto
5. Edmonton
6. Ottawa
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E". |
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Matt_Roberts85
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
936 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 13:44:34
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quote:
Originally posted by redneck76ca
Since I've joined this site I have noticed that the majority of the banter is with regards to the Leafs and the Habs. What I would like to know is what everyone's opinions are regarding ALL the Canadian teams and how they will fare in the 09/10 NHL Season. Predictions? Rankings? Which team will be tops and which team will be the bottom feeder. So, lets get this thing rolling.
What are your predictions?
Just thought id add that during the season most of the teams are covered pretty well, the site is much more active. During the summer I think its just leaf and hab fans (and beans) who are still surfing pickup hockey waiting for the season to start...
The forums were bumpin during the playoffs
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E". |
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sharksfan44
Rookie
Canada
228 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 14:08:54
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quote:
Originally posted by Matt_Roberts85
quote:
Originally posted by redneck76ca
Since I've joined this site I have noticed that the majority of the banter is with regards to the Leafs and the Habs. What I would like to know is what everyone's opinions are regarding ALL the Canadian teams and how they will fare in the 09/10 NHL Season. Predictions? Rankings? Which team will be tops and which team will be the bottom feeder. So, lets get this thing rolling.
What are your predictions?
Just thought id add that during the season most of the teams are covered pretty well, the site is much more active. During the summer I think its just leaf and hab fans (and beans) who are still surfing pickup hockey waiting for the season to start...
The forums were bumpin during the playoffs
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E".
it's good to hear that. I was startin to wonder that myself. i just joined this site recently too. |
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Alex116
PickupHockey Legend
6113 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 14:25:38
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quote:
Originally posted by Seventy7Fifty2
Easy Alex.
I said Gainey did better then Burke, and Gainey wins over the moron Burke - AND i said Leafs suck and always sucked - AND i said Leafs will need 40+ more years to eventhink about getting close to a cup. But i didn't say Leafs would finish lower than Habs next season.
Funny how some people jump to conclusions...
Also, I NEVER SAID I WAS I HABS Fan either... :-)
Method to my madness:
Step 1...Read whats in BOLD above.
Step 2...Look back at Gainey vs Burke thread.
Step 3...Copy examples of 7752's contradictory quotes
Step 4...Paste them here, then comment.....
quote:
originally posted by 7752
"This whole forum is about the moves made.
Gainey made moves to deliver more wins next season (I did not say deliver a CUP), Burke did nothing that will improve Leafs win column next season.
Gainey wins again."
So, more wins by Montreal, Burke did nothing to improve the Leafs in the win column, Montreal as i already mentioned finished ahead of them last year, so....? Hmmm, can you do the math? Let's try another:
quote:
Originally posted by 7752
"In the end - Gainey's putting something together for wins NOW.
Burke is counting on building, waiting, hoping things work out, etc..
That's not the way to manage teams anymore, Leaf fans... no GM's in any sport does that anymore. GM's manage to WIN, and win NOW!"
This one pretty much says the same thing i'd say?
You know, i just went and read through the Gainey / Burke thread while finding these quotes to back up what i said and here's what i realized. You really are just trying to get a reaction out of other posters. Most of your posts are either argumentative and obviously started to get a rise out of some or they are pathetic responses to when people call you out. Things like "easy Alex, you're thinking too much" or "Calm down leaf fans, you let your emotions get too involved" or my favorite, the one you just used on this thread "stick to the topic"! Sorry, but that translates to this: You called me out, you were right, i can't handle it, therefore "stick to the topic please".......
Sorry son, but it looks like i scored 100% on the quiz. D was in fact the correct answer!
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Beans15
Moderator
Canada
8286 Posts |
Posted - 08/25/2009 : 17:35:04
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Guys, let's try to stay on topic. This is a really good thread and will pass some time until hockey actually starts again.
And trust me when I say, the people that make themselves look bad on here do that on their own. They rarely need help from others to point out their foot firmly in their mouth.
Let's keep it on hockey and opinions, not on people.
Have a nice Day |
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Matt_Roberts85
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
936 Posts |
Posted - 08/26/2009 : 05:36:45
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Alex - Boy do I know what you mean.
If Vancouver doesn't have luongo signed to an extension by the olympic break do you guys think its going to become a huge distraction to the team? Or is the classic "contract distraction" excuse overrated?
If Luongo is worried about a contract most of the season it could spell trouble for the 'nucks...
Also, If Im Calgary Im really going to miss Cammalerri's 39 goals or whatever he had. The pressure to score on iginla is going up again with him out of the picture.
I'd love to see Quinn get the Oilers back to the playoffs, and have the team play an exciting brand of hockey. I always liked Edmonton the most out of the western teams and with Quinn there, I like them even more now.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E". |
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Alex116
PickupHockey Legend
6113 Posts |
Posted - 08/26/2009 : 07:52:22
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Matt...It could definitely be a distraction i'd say. The thing is, the better Luongo plays, the more he could decide to test the market, thus putting more and more pressure on Gillis? I'd prefer they get a deal done and trade Schneider for an asset, also giving him the chance to go to a team where he's got a better chance to get some minutes at this level.
Here's what i've heard, and this is just rumours right now, i have nothing to confirm this. The other day, a friend told me he heard that Luongo was looking for a LONG term deal, something like 8-10 years? Gillis only wants to do 4 and doesn't wanna get locked in longterm with anyone, not knowing what the cap will do and how things could shape up down the road.
Another friend texted me yesterday. He's one of the biggest 'Nucks fans in the city. Goes to all the open practices, autograph sessions, skills contests, dinners, etc that a fan can. Here's his exact text from yesterday: "Word on the streets is Luongo resigned for 6 years at 6.75 per year! Announcement possibly tomorrow!". Like i said, this is just something he heard and until i hear confirmation, i'll take little comfort in it.
As for Calgary, i agree they might miss Cammalleri's goals. They really aren't deep at LW are they? Having said that, someone will likely benefit from playing with Iggy and could have a breakout season to help offset some of those goals?
The Oilers are a funny one. I see some "experts" picking them to have a bit of an improvement, others see them doing worse or at least just as bad as last year. They haven't really made much in the way of changes so i don't see how they're gonna compete with the others. I guess it's possible that Hemsky has a career year and Horcoff has another good one. Horcoff's funny, have a look at his last 4 seasons stats:
05/06.... GP 79 Pts 70 +/- of 0(Pretty good)
06/07.... GP 80 Pts 51 +/- of -22 (Prob not what Oilers and their fans expected after the previous year)
07/08.... GP 53 Pts 50 +/- of +1 (back to almost a pt a game?)
08/09.... GP 80 Pts 53 +/- of +7 (another not so impressive campaign)
So, is this the year he turns it up and goes for 75 points? If they're to challenge for a playoff spot, he and some of the youngsters will have to step up. I do like the youth they have in Gagner, Cogliano, O'Sullivan, etc and their future looks bright when you add in prospects like Eberle and Paajarvi-Svenson and this team's not far off. |
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Beans15
Moderator
Canada
8286 Posts |
Posted - 08/26/2009 : 12:27:36
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Ok, let's talk about Shawn Horcoff for a second. How many players in the NHL are their teams 1st line centre, 1st line Power play, 1st line penalty kill, #1 shut down player, and play over 20 minutes a game???? I'll answer that, it's very, very few. I would say less than 5. And let's face it, Horcoff will never be the offensive player that say a Pavel Datsyuk is, but he is a damn fine all around player. Ultimately, you really noticed a difference with Horcoff after Smyth left. Reason being is that Horcoff has played almost exclusively with Hemsky and another offensive player at even strength. This has forced Horcoff to be the defensive player on the line covering in his own end for Hemsky and or the other winger. This creates very limited offense but take nothing away from Horcoff, he does the job he is paid to do and he does it well. Most other players in the league that are asked to do what Horcoff does are not expected to contribute a point a game.
And as far as the Kids go, it's frustrating in Edmonton to say the least. For the past two season, Sam Gagner has finished the last 20 games of the season as a PPG player. He has started the first 60 games each season as less than a 0.5 PPG player. If he can find any kind of consistency, he can take Horcoff's spot as the #1 centre and Horcoff can be recognized for what he actually is. That being one of the top 3 2nd line centres in the NHL today. Nielsson is a very happy camper that MacT is gone, and I also think you will see better production out of Cogliano. MacT was making Cogliano into a 3rd line plugger when he should be a 2nd line supporting offensive player.
Now, the key with Edmonton this year, as it has been for the past 5 years in injuries. You have to remember that the Oilers played without their #1/2 defensemen for half of last year in Visovsky. Hesmky was injured with a concussion at times, and various other players were out. We can all agree that Edmonton does not have the talent to cover for many if any injuries. If mostly healthy for the entire season, this current Edmonton team will compete for 6thish in the West. If injured, they are no better than 9th.
And I emphatically agree with anyone who says that Calgary will sorely miss Camallerri this year. Jokinen and Iginla did not play well together last year at all because they are too much alike in their play and they have little to no depth at scoring. Don't get me wrong, they will be one of if not the toughest defensive teams next year, but who will score??? Only time will tell. I personally don't think they have the committee to even be able to score by committee.
Vancouver is solid again and will be better this year with Samualsson as another secondary scorer with Demitra. Luongo is still the life blood and when healthy, he can carry that team to the division on his own.
Ottawa was the best team in the NHL in the last 20-30 games. They will definately be better overall and I think way too many people have written them off and put far too much stock into this Heatley thing being a negative. The gotten better with Kovalev offensively and no one is considering that they have a bonified #1 goalie for the first time in 2 seasons with Leclaire.
Toronto will be one of if not the more physically agressive teams in the league. Beleive it or not, this long time Leaf basher is looking forward to watching the early HNIC games this year because of it. Unfortunately, there will be more nights that not where the Leaf fans are saying, "Great game to watch, very exciting, the only thing better would be if the Leafs won." Improve yes, playoffs, doubtful at best.
Montreal is a sleeper. Seriously, no one can really know what a team with that many roster changes as well as a coaching change will do. There is no middle of the road here, they either feast or starve. They will either be near the top of the East or in the bottom 5 of the NHL. Personally, I think thier coach is far too good and their players far to talented and competative to be anything but good. But that's a risky bet.
In order, the Canadian teams will be.
1. Vancouver
2. Montreal
3. Ottawa
4. Calgary
5. Edmonton
6. Toronto |
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redneck76ca
Rookie
186 Posts |
Posted - 08/26/2009 : 15:25:12
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| Beans- You made some great points about Horcoff with regards to his abilities (I've always been a fan of his play...the Oilers are my 3rd favorite team) and the scoring situation in Calgary. The loss of Cammi will be hurtful but J. Bo could very well make up 20 of those goals by himself, and that is from the back end. Throw in a return to form by Phaneuf and the Flames may only need one player to score 6 more goals than last year to make up the loss of Cammi. I am hard pressed to believe that they will finish lower than Montreal and Ottawa but who knows. I'd like nothing more than to have the Flames fall flat on their faces this year, I just dont see it happening. |
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Matt_Roberts85
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
936 Posts |
Posted - 08/26/2009 : 15:32:27
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great analysis beans.,its hard to argue anything you said.
I really hope the sens stay out of the playoff race though... Leclaire and Kovalev are really going to have to be difference makers. The D is also going to have to do a better job of getting the forwards the puck. The addition of Campoli for a full season should help. If Mike Fischer can remember that he is Mike Fischer, that would be great for them as well.
I still think that the leafs are going to surprise people with their goal scoring. It doesn't look good on paper but the last couple seasons the experts have said the same thing. "aside from Sundin, who is going to score?" last year was even worse, "They dont have Sundin and have a no name batch of forwards". Im pretty sure that every year since the lockout the leafs have been top 10 in goal scoring and every year people say they cant score.
Their problem is keeping the puck out of the net. I wont go so far as to say they will make the playoffs, but I dont think they will be a bottom 10 team in terms of scoring.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E". |
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Guest3341
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Posted - 08/26/2009 : 17:12:05
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quote:
Originally posted by Matt_Roberts85
great analysis beans.,its hard to argue anything you said.
I really hope the sens stay out of the playoff race though... Leclaire and Kovalev are really going to have to be difference makers. The D is also going to have to do a better job of getting the forwards the puck. The addition of Campoli for a full season should help. If Mike Fischer can remember that he is Mike Fischer, that would be great for them as well.
I still think that the leafs are going to surprise people with their goal scoring. It doesn't look good on paper but the last couple seasons the experts have said the same thing. "aside from Sundin, who is going to score?" last year was even worse, "They dont have Sundin and have a no name batch of forwards". Im pretty sure that every year since the lockout the leafs have been top 10 in goal scoring and every year people say they cant score.
Their problem is keeping the puck out of the net. I wont go so far as to say they will make the playoffs, but I dont think they will be a bottom 10 team in terms of scoring.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E".
Matt's the fact they dont have snipers or a bonified 1st line means this team has had to play a wide open game to get the scoring in bunches you need to eek out a few games.
For instance last year the Leaf's finished tied for 10th in scoring without a bonified 1st or 2nd scoring line and the team finished dead last in goals against. In 2008 with a scoring line they finished tied for 11th in scoring but 26th in goals against. The year prior when the 1st line was clicking was tied for 6th and 24th against. I know that you can lay some of the blame on the goalies, but Toskala was not that bad.
If this team could get a offensive line going to take the pressure off the rest of the lineup to score they might be able to lower the goals against to a reasonable level to get this team in the playoffs. |
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Guest7089
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Posted - 08/26/2009 : 18:56:09
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quote:
Originally posted by Beans15
Montreal is a sleeper. Seriously, no one can really know what a team with that many roster changes as well as a coaching change will do. There is no middle of the road here, they either feast or starve. They will either be near the top of the East or in the bottom 5 of the NHL. Personally, I think thier coach is far too good and their players far to talented and competative to be anything but good. But that's a risky bet.
I think I remember seeing this experiment last year with the Lightning. Although Martin is a better coach than Melrose. |
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Beans15
Moderator
Canada
8286 Posts |
Posted - 08/26/2009 : 20:39:26
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quote:
Originally posted by Guest7089
quote:
Originally posted by Beans15
Montreal is a sleeper. Seriously, no one can really know what a team with that many roster changes as well as a coaching change will do. There is no middle of the road here, they either feast or starve. They will either be near the top of the East or in the bottom 5 of the NHL. Personally, I think thier coach is far too good and their players far to talented and competative to be anything but good. But that's a risky bet.
I think I remember seeing this experiment last year with the Lightning. Although Martin is a better coach than Melrose.
Well, let's also not forget that Montreal's defense this year(on paper) is far superior to the TB defense last year. Also, far better goalie(again, on paper) in Montreal.
And Redneck, I agree with you. Bouwmeester might put in 20ish and Phaneuf might return to form. So, basically, you need another player to step up for Calgary to be as productive as they were last year, and that was not enough to ever look quality enough to get out of the first round. With some luck and some players stepping up that is. Calgary will not be the worst team of the 6 in Canada, but I think they will be the biggest underachiever based on most people putting them in the elite in the league. They will be average to above average through the regular season. They are not as good as Vancouver with a healthy Luongo, and the would be lucky to get out of the first round.
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Edited by - Beans15 on 08/26/2009 20:41:16 |
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JOSHUACANADA
PickupHockey Veteran
Canada
2308 Posts |
Posted - 08/27/2009 : 11:25:36
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Actually Beans that is the same analysis i'd give for Vancouver this year. Maybe Loungo can produce another season similar to the late season driveand this team is tight defensively, but offensively the Sedins are not good enough, to propell this team to the top of the west or second round of playoffs.
My dark horse would be the Oilers this year. I think this team has a lot of room for improvement (ie potential) which they have not produce in the last 2 years. I lay the blame on the fight for the #1 goalie position, remarkable amount of injuries to key players and the less than stellar performance of coaching staff.
Obviously I'm going to cheer for Ottawa, but really this team improved tremendously late in the season and improved their roster in the offseason. If they can get past or over the Heatly debacle with either a competing Heatly or good return for his value I think this team has something to prove.
I really believe the Leafs are going to make the playoffs for no other reason than they improved more defensively than any other team in the East. If they can get confidence and a bit of luck offesively this team could be fighting for 7-8.
Montreal if they gel fast could push for 6-7 as the talent is there and they are not missing piece's. But if the recieve early and often setbacks on there 1st line or if the glue dont stick together this team could go down the drain fast.
I honestly don't think the flames will hold down the NW. I do think they will be in the fight but a few defensive gains and a few offensive losses with a new coach does not nessesarily make this team a lock for me just a tough team to play.
Thats my thought on The canadian content for the NHL right or wrong. |
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redneck76ca
Rookie
186 Posts |
Posted - 08/27/2009 : 13:03:27
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| One thing that must be pointed out is if Heatley isn't traded by the beginning of the season and reports to camp and starts the season with the Sens that the Sens will have to move approximately $4 million dollars worth of players salary for the Sens to be under the cap. To keep him means to lose atleast Fischer (and nobody will take him at his salary) and most likely another roster player. Even if Ottawa has improved they will still have to get worse before they can actually meet the salary cap. |
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Matt_Roberts85
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
936 Posts |
Posted - 08/27/2009 : 13:15:19
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quote:
Originally posted by Guest3341
quote:
Originally posted by Matt_Roberts85
great analysis beans.,its hard to argue anything you said.
I really hope the sens stay out of the playoff race though... Leclaire and Kovalev are really going to have to be difference makers. The D is also going to have to do a better job of getting the forwards the puck. The addition of Campoli for a full season should help. If Mike Fischer can remember that he is Mike Fischer, that would be great for them as well.
I still think that the leafs are going to surprise people with their goal scoring. It doesn't look good on paper but the last couple seasons the experts have said the same thing. "aside from Sundin, who is going to score?" last year was even worse, "They dont have Sundin and have a no name batch of forwards". Im pretty sure that every year since the lockout the leafs have been top 10 in goal scoring and every year people say they cant score.
Their problem is keeping the puck out of the net. I wont go so far as to say they will make the playoffs, but I dont think they will be a bottom 10 team in terms of scoring.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E".
Matt's the fact they dont have snipers or a bonified 1st line means this team has had to play a wide open game to get the scoring in bunches you need to eek out a few games.
For instance last year the Leaf's finished tied for 10th in scoring without a bonified 1st or 2nd scoring line and the team finished dead last in goals against. In 2008 with a scoring line they finished tied for 11th in scoring but 26th in goals against. The year prior when the 1st line was clicking was tied for 6th and 24th against. I know that you can lay some of the blame on the goalies, but Toskala was not that bad.
If this team could get a offensive line going to take the pressure off the rest of the lineup to score they might be able to lower the goals against to a reasonable level to get this team in the playoffs.
I couldn't agree more.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E". |
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Matt_Roberts85
PickupHockey Pro
Canada
936 Posts |
Posted - 08/27/2009 : 13:20:40
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quote:
Originally posted by JOSHUACANADA
Obviously I'm going to cheer for Ottawa, but really this team improved tremendously late in the season and improved their roster in the offseason. If they can get past or over the Heatly debacle with either a competing Heatly or good return for his value I think this team has something to prove.
Not to be a douche, but the sens played well once the pressure of making the post season was off. This was a very similar situation that the leafs have been in for the past 4 years. Once the season has gone to s*** and pretty much all hope for the post season is gone, the team starts to play loose and the record over the last 1/4 or so of the season looks great. Then you go into next season thinking you can continue with that momentum. I know the two situations aren't the same, but im just saying, be warned.
There is no "I" in team, but there is an "M" and an "E". |
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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
Posted - 08/27/2009 : 20:24:07
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Good point, Redneck, about Ottawa needing to deal someone if Heatley is staying . . . I know somone who mentioned that before, and I had forgotten it.
No one would take Fischer's contract, eh? Hmm . . . under 30 still, pretty decent sized center who could score 20 to 30 goals (higher if on the first line, obviously), somewhat rugged, coming off a bad year on a team which had a bad season. I tell ya, I wouldn't mind him in a Leafs uniform if the Sens were so desperate they had to deal him to their rivals.
About Calgary possibly disappointing - I don't see it. Talent laden offences have disappointed all the time, but barring several serious injuries, talent laden defences always make the team very solid. This is the reason I rate Calgary the highest (they have an underrated offence, you'll see now that Keenan is gone), and why I place the Leafs as getting in the playoffs. And, it's the reason I predict Ottawa continues to disappoint.
I remember that Ottawa team with a very good Redden, Chara, Volchenkov . . . they were a one line team with no depth on offense (although it was one of the best lines), but they had a very solid D. Now it's Kuba, Campoli, and an inexplicably 'dying' Chris Phillips. I just don't see any big changes on D to alter their team's horrible showing last year . . .
Nope - I am seeing Edomonton out of the playoffs for sure, Ottawa pretty sure to miss, but the rest of them make it. Might be close for the Leafs, Habs or Vancouver, but 4 out of 6 ain't bad, eh?
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
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redneck76ca
Rookie
186 Posts |
Posted - 08/27/2009 : 22:26:36
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quote:
Originally posted by slozo
Good point, Redneck, about Ottawa needing to deal someone if Heatley is staying . . . I know somone who mentioned that before, and I had forgotten it.
No one would take Fischer's contract, eh? Hmm . . . under 30 still, pretty decent sized center who could score 20 to 30 goals (higher if on the first line, obviously), somewhat rugged, coming off a bad year on a team which had a bad season. I tell ya, I wouldn't mind him in a Leafs uniform if the Sens were so desperate they had to deal him to their rivals.
About Calgary possibly disappointing - I don't see it. Talent laden offences have disappointed all the time, but barring several serious injuries, talent laden defences always make the team very solid. This is the reason I rate Calgary the highest (they have an underrated offence, you'll see now that Keenan is gone), and why I place the Leafs as getting in the playoffs. And, it's the reason I predict Ottawa continues to disappoint.
I remember that Ottawa team with a very good Redden, Chara, Volchenkov . . . they were a one line team with no depth on offense (although it was one of the best lines), but they had a very solid D. Now it's Kuba, Campoli, and an inexplicably 'dying' Chris Phillips. I just don't see any big changes on D to alter their team's horrible showing last year . . .
Nope - I am seeing Edomonton out of the playoffs for sure, Ottawa pretty sure to miss, but the rest of them make it. Might be close for the Leafs, Habs or Vancouver, but 4 out of 6 ain't bad, eh?
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
Ok, maybe there are teams out there willing to eat 4.2 million a year for Fischer IF he is their first line center. But seriously? Fischer a first line center? Which team is so bad that they'd take Fischer as a first line center? No way in hell its Burke and the Leafs, he's smarter than that. |
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n/a
deleted
4809 Posts |
Posted - 08/28/2009 : 04:32:21
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Well, I think he might end up as a second line center, with the potential of being your first line center if by some miracle he decides to have a career season.
Meh, it was just a thought. You're right though, upon further reflection, I don't see Burke wanting a potentially poor second line center for over 4 mil a year.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug |
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JOSHUACANADA
PickupHockey Veteran
Canada
2308 Posts |
Posted - 08/28/2009 : 12:36:55
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I dont think Ottawa is 4million over I thought it was 1-1.5 over. You must be including the bonus money. As far as I know they have a few salaries included for 2way players who will be in the minors come season beginning and could trade away either Smith or Fisher if needed with a prospect or minor league centre that they cant find a roster spot. Ottawa seems to be knee deep in prospect centre-man.
Here is link to salaries http://www.nhlnumbers.com/overview.php?team=OTT |
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Guest4942
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Posted - 08/28/2009 : 14:43:04
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1 Calgary - Everyone keeps saying they will lack scoring but I just don't see it, lets do some math here. They were without Jokinen for 63 games, in 57 games with Phx, he scored 21 and in 63 with Calgary that's at least 25. Suddenly you are only missing 14 of Cammalleri's goals. Lets go to the low end and say Bouwmeester scores 15 like he has the last 2 seasons and the goal deficit has already vanished. Should Phaneuf go back up to the 18 a season he averaged for his first 3, up from the measly 11 he scored last, the goals stand at a +8. Top this off by Jarome increasing on his 35 and Bourque staying healthy along with some new additions to the roster and I would bet money that Calgary has more goals scored this season than last. Oh and did I mention how good they will be defensively? Good season up and coming for Flames fans, Brent will coach this team 10x better than Keenan.
2 Vancouver - They showed a lot last year, both by how badly they need Luongo and how good they are with him. Although they lost some depth at the back end, they have proven in recent years that even with injuries, they are not slouches defensively. Given some added forward experience/depth and some up and coming youngsters and Vancouver fans will have another season to talk uninformed smack just because their team is successful. They could put up a decent fight for the NW division title but will likely finish 4th or 5th.
3 Ottawa - Yes there is controversy among the locker room, but in the off season they didn't really change much and have gained Kovalev up front. They will have a lot of offensive power and finally have a coach that seems to work for them. Heatley will play well as he has something to prove and I think he will be welcomed by the Ottawa players, if not the fans or media. They have a lot of potential and I could see them finishing as high as 5th but I feel more comfortable predicting 6th.
4 Montreal - They have certainly had a busy offseason, but they still look to be about as good as they were last. With so much change it is hard to readily predict what this team will accomplish during a full NHL season. I think they are slightly stronger than the leafs and have a chance of squeaking out another post season position. I see them battlling for the final few playoff spots, the east is going to be close this year.
5 Toronto - Toronto looks to be probably one of the most improved Canadian teams in the off season. A lot of big bodies and a fresh looking roster. They have a legit shot of finishing with a playoff spot, but no guaruntees. Toronto is a mediocre team at best, but so are a lot of teams in the east.
6 Edmonton - Sorry to say it but Edmonton fans will not have a lot to cheer for yet again this season. Although they are another Canadian team who looks a lot better in many aspects after the off season, they are still too young and do have the star quality of many other teams. I will eat my hat if they make the playoffs!
Comments on predictions are welcome! Anyone think I'm completely crazy? |
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Beans15
Moderator
Canada
8286 Posts |
Posted - 08/28/2009 : 14:43:46
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quote:
Originally posted by slozo
Nope - I am seeing Edomonton out of the playoffs for sure, Ottawa pretty sure to miss, but the rest of them make it. Might be close for the Leafs, Habs or Vancouver, but 4 out of 6 ain't bad, eh?
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
Mr. Slozo, are you gambling man?? Willing to put something behind this last statement. I mean. Toronto ahead of Edmonton??? The Leafs make the playoffs but the Oilers don't?? Same as Ottawa missing the playoffs??
My bet says that both Edmonton and Ottawa are ahead of Toronto in the standing at the end of the regular season. I agree that one or both might miss the playoffs, but I say that Toronto is the lowest in the standings at the end of the regular season of those three teams.
Interested?? |
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Guest4942
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Posted - 08/28/2009 : 15:18:48
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quote:
Originally posted by Beans15
quote:
Originally posted by slozo
Nope - I am seeing Edomonton out of the playoffs for sure, Ottawa pretty sure to miss, but the rest of them make it. Might be close for the Leafs, Habs or Vancouver, but 4 out of 6 ain't bad, eh?
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
Mr. Slozo, are you gambling man?? Willing to put something behind this last statement. I mean. Toronto ahead of Edmonton??? The Leafs make the playoffs but the Oilers don't?? Same as Ottawa missing the playoffs??
My bet says that both Edmonton and Ottawa are ahead of Toronto in the standing at the end of the regular season. I agree that one or both might miss the playoffs, but I say that Toronto is the lowest in the standings at the end of the regular season of those three teams.
Interested??
Beans I'd be willing to take the bet that Toronto finishes higher in the the east (position wise) than the Oilers do in the west. And yes, there is no way the Oilers will make the playoffs while TO might have a small possibility IMO. |
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Beans15
Moderator
Canada
8286 Posts |
Posted - 08/29/2009 : 08:59:54
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That's not the bet. It's Edmonton over Toronto period. East or West is irrelevant. I am betting that Toronto is the lower in the overall NHL standings than Ottawa and Edmonton.
It's actually an odds bet in TO favor as they only have to beat one of the two teams for my bet to lose. |
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lyall
PickupHockey Pro
360 Posts |
Posted - 08/29/2009 : 11:29:13
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quote:
Originally posted by slozo
6. Edmonton
Sad to say, but I think this is the year when Edmonton hits rock bottom. I am not confident that Khabi can stay healthy at this age, their scoring is weak, and their D isn't great. They have over achieved almost every year, and I think this is the year they just don't perform, despite the coaching and managerial changes. 13th, sadly.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
I don't get how you think Edmonton has a "weak" defense.
Souray-------81GP-23G-30A-53P +1
Gilbert-------82GP-5G-40A-45P +6
Grebeshkov---72GP-7G-32A-39P +12
Visnovsky----50GP-8G-23A-31P +6
With Grebeshkov the lowest at .49 PPG. I's say the top 4 Defenseman in Edmonton are pretty solid. |
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redneck76ca
Rookie
186 Posts |
Posted - 08/29/2009 : 11:38:02
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quote:
Originally posted by lyall
quote:
Originally posted by slozo
6. Edmonton
Sad to say, but I think this is the year when Edmonton hits rock bottom. I am not confident that Khabi can stay healthy at this age, their scoring is weak, and their D isn't great. They have over achieved almost every year, and I think this is the year they just don't perform, despite the coaching and managerial changes. 13th, sadly.
"Take off, eh?" - Bob and Doug
I don't get how you think Edmonton has a "weak" defense.
Souray-------81GP-23G-30A-53P +1
Gilbert-------82GP-5G-40A-45P +6
Grebeshkov---72GP-7G-32A-39P +12
Visnovsky----50GP-8G-23A-31P +6
With Grebeshkov the lowest at .49 PPG. I's say the top 4 Defenseman in Edmonton are pretty solid.
Edmonton really lacks a shutdown defenseman. All four of the guys you listed other than Grebeshkov have weak +/- and then the rest are minus Staios -5, Smid -6 and Strudwick -4. Their dmen are good offensively but are suspect when it comes to defending their own zone. |
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