Sunday's Games:
FINAL ~ S/O
New York Rangers 3
Philadelphia Flyers 2
NEW YORK RANGERS: Blueshirts restore hope with a huge win over Philadelphia and wipe the horrible memory of the Islanders debacle out of our minds.
It was just about a year ago around this time that the Rangers lost to the Flyers in a shoot out and let an opportunity at making the playoffs spiral down a fifth floor MSG toilet. The Rangers desperation for two points was just as dire then as it was today. That fateful game last season was Henrik's 17th consecutive and last start of the season for the Blueshirts. It was also the end of a season run that wore the goalie down.
This year, today's game against Philadelphia was consecutive start number 23 for King Henrik. But with only three games left on the schedule (all at home), Henrik will not quite match last year's total of 73 starts in net. He'll end close though. But maybe, just maybe, Marty Biron served his role well enough and early enough before he got injured. He did start 21 games in net before going down. And Henrik appears to be a fresher goalie for it.
In today's game both goalies gave up two goals while stopping thirty-four shots each in regulation time plus the extra five. Then, sure enough and to no one's surprise, the Rangers went into a Shoot-Out against the Flyers; just like last year. Unlike last year's match-up when the Rangers (and both teams) were in a do or die situation to make the playoffs because it was the last game of the season, the Blueshirts still have the slimmest of margins to wiggle their way into the second season with three games remaining if all they managed today was just the one point.
But this year's team is a radically different product than the unit which fell short last season. Sure, the standings and their situation seem similar to last year's end of season dilemma. But this team unlike last season's edition has already sold us on the notion they are a never say die squad. These young guys got spunk. And when things seemed to break down before and the fan's hopes seemed to be crumbling along with them, time and again, these young Rangers came back and did something to reassure us they will not go quietly into the night and left us feeling good again.
It's so frustrating watching them play down to the likes of the Islanders, Senators and Florida, then suffering a back-breaker against the Sabres. There was only a fraction of an inch of space for error in that Buffalo game, and we were the ones who found it and slipped.
But we can't lose sight of how young many of the present skaters are and how little NHL experience they have. So considering the team we were supposed to be starting out the season compared to the team we are now, I'd say the transformation of this team on the fly has been quite remarkable and they don't deserve to get the Rangers 85 Year History book thrown at them.
These guys did things like what they started against the Flyers back in early March. They pounded them for seven goals. Then they beat the Sharks; Canadiens and the Penguins. They muzzled the Bruins with a one goal shut-out. They've pounded on the Caps a couple of times this season for good measure. By doing things like that they've shown us they can contend and extend their season deep into Spring. But then a drubbing like the one we endured against the Islanders makes one think if we really can and if we'll get the chance.
But today, The Rangers; The Road Warriors; - Today the Blueshirts rose to the occasion. They did what needed to be done. They went to Broad Street and beat the Bullies on their own ice. There was a price to pay. There always is when you visit Broad Street. Marc Staal got a busted nose. But Hockey players don't miss time. They're not baseball players.
Now the Rangers get to finish the last three games of the season all at Madison Square Garden starting Monday night against the Boston Bruins again.
Monday's game still means something to us because Brian McCabe scored on the power play today, just as he was brought here to do. Tomorrow's game still has major significance because Ruslan Fedotenko gave the Rangers a 2-1 lead in the second period with the team's second goal after Philly opened the scoring in the first period. We are still in control of our destiny because Henrik Lunqvist is playing like a franchise goalie when his team needs him to be a King most. And we still have continuing, meaningful Hockey to play beginning tomorrow night because Erik Christensen and Wojtek Wolski complemented Henrik's no goals allowed in Sunday's shoot-out against the Flyers.
Like you, I watched today's game on TV-NBC. The guys name escapes me right now, but whomever was calling the game with Doc Emerick said upon the Flyers first goal scored in the first period, "Big Bodies Matter". In describing the Flyers goal, that may have been true. The notion continued to hold true for several minutes, and bore more truth when a Rangers' attempt on net was denied because a Blueshirt got pushed and tossed out of the crease by the Flyers' defense.
If Big Bodies Matter, then this game was proof that sometimes a Bigger Heart and more Fortitude can get you through a game. Size certainly helps. I know it; Ranger fans know. It's something we always wished we had for a very long time. But on a day like today, Size came in a distant third to the Rangers' intangibles they brought with them to Philly.
Bring on the Bruins.
BUFFALO vs. CAROLINA:
Final: Buffalo 2; Carolina 1 S.O.
Our neighbors from Long Island didn't care to respond to the Bat Signal the Rangers sent up during the Islanders' game against Carolina, but our cross-state friends did. The Rangers received much need help from the Sabres as they beat Carolina today. These two teams also played into over-time. Buffalo's Chris Butler scored in the first period and Carolina's Eric Staal scored in the second period. The third period remained scoreless and off to over-time they went. At 2:56 of the five minute session, Buffalo's young Defenseman - Marc-Andre Gragnani scored the first NHL goal of his career and second ever point to win it for Buffalo.
And here's what the bottom of the Eastern Conference Bracket looks like now:
EASTERN CONFERNECE STANDINGS:
#1 ~ *Philadelphia ~ 103
#2 ~ *Washington ~ 103
#3 ~ *Boston ~ 99
#4 ~ Pittsburgh ~ 100
#5 ~ Tampa Bay ~ 97
#6 ~ Montreal ~ 91
#7 ~ Buffalo ~ 90
#8 ~ NEW YORK ~ 89
------------------------------------
#9 ~ Carolina ~ 87
#10 ~ Toronto ~ 84
RANGERS Remaining Games:
BOSTON ~ April 4th
ATLANTA ~ April 7th
NEW JERSEY ~ April 9th
OTHER STUFF:
Now that Mats Zuccarello is back with the AHL-Whale, it's unlikely Sean Avery will be the designated healthy scratch anymore. But it doesn't look like Coach Torts will use him any differently that he has the majority of the season; which is very little. Against the Flyers he was allotted 5:20 minutes and nine shifts; by far the fewest on the team. Rounding out the rest of the bottom three ice participants were Christensen playing 9:07 minutes with thirteen shifts while Wojtek Wolski, who on the other side of this line logged 9:17 minutes and 13 shifts.
Here's a question. Does Brandon Dubinsky still really deserve to be getting 24 minutes a night; every night?
Here's another question. Do you give Henrik Lundqvist a day off against Atlanta? In a perfect world we'd be able to afford giving him the Devils game off. Is this even a consideration right now? It probably depends on what the Rangers do against Boston tomorrow and how the Sabres and Carolina fare until the Atlanta game rolls around. But should we really risk giving Chad Johnson a start in one of the remaining three games? I think we all agree Henrik can use the day off? The the bigger question is do we actually do it? Can we afford to?
I feared, some weeks ago, that the Rangers' season finale against the New Jersey Devils would loom large in the Blueshirts playoff push. It still appears if that regular season ending game will have as much significance in deciding our playoff fate as tomorrow's game against Boston will. This Blueshirt quest for a ticket into the second season is going to use every regulation minute permissible, and I just know the Devils game will be there to factor into our best laid plans.
*If the Rangers make the Playoffs, watch for the season long, tense but civilized relationship between Coach Torts and writer Larry Brooks to end. That's a situation that is ready to go BOOM! and there's nothing like the playoffs to light that fuse.
Mike.BTB
Sunday, April 03, 2011
N.Y. RANGERS ~ Broadway Blueshirts Down To Final Four Shows
TODAY
Eastern Conference Showdown
NEW YORK RANGERS
8th Place ~ 41-32-5 ~ 87 Points
vs.
Philadelphia Flyers
2nd Place ~ 46-22-10 ~ 102 points
at Philly
NEW YORK RANGERS: March Was Maddening. But The Show Must Go On.
One point - it's the only thing that separates the Blueshirts from being in control of their own destiny; being in or out of the playoff race; and being in the cross hairs of their fan's ire. They may yet become Broadway's biggest comedy hit of the season, but it's not going down as sensationally with their fans who find nothing funny about the piano falling out of the sky called the New York Rangers.
The Islanders couldn't do to Carolina last night what they did to us last Thursday. Last week's games against Buffalo and Long Island are two games that will haunt us all summer if the Rangers continue to fall out of the sky. The Islanders loss to the Hurricanes last night should serve to teach the Rangers one thing; they had better police themselves and take care of their own business and it starts today in Philadelphia. There will be no outside help for us. This is our situation and our situation only to make Black or Blue.
It was the game against the Philadelphia Flyers at MSG back on March 6th; a 7-0 drubbing of the Bullies, that started a Ranger run that had us all thinking they were coming together as a formidable team down the stretch and heading into the playoffs.
Then someone started playing with the switches back stage and blew-out a couple of fuses. And now the lights are in peril of going out on this Broadway show all together. This comedy; tragedy or whatever type show you chose to call it appears doomed. Either way, the review won't be pretty if they don't get their act together during the final four performances of the season.
But I will say this in their defense. Over and over again, this season, the Rangers have consistently bounced back from dire situations before. We really have no reason to believe why they can't regain a grip on their situation other than the historical record that we beat ourselves over the head with. They seem to play up to the better teams. Hopefully they stay true to the trend. There's always the option of living in the moment. We've been here in the past and here we are again. The choice is ours to make. Do we give a newer cast of Rangers a chance to redeem themselves and invest ourselves in an effort to grind forward again? The Rangers will answer that today. But I'd be careful where you walk because the piano might touch ground at any moment now.
Look up....in every sense of the word.
The Final Four
@ Philadelphia
BOSTON
ATLANTA
NEW JERSEY
Mike.BTB
Saturday, April 02, 2011
N.Y. YANKEES ~ Brian Cashman Doesn't Mince Words
From the desk of: Blame Carlos May
New York Yankees: The GM laughs little, jokes less, and just doesn't play at all.
There's only one way I can classify Yankee GM Brian Cashman's comments regarding Pedro Feliciano. First this is the Tweet by YES Network's Jack Curry:
Why I think his comments are comical have nothing to do with his taking a jab and my team of choice; the New York Mets. No; Cashman's choice words to describe the situation he and his off season bullpen acquisition find themselves in are a reflection of Cashman himself knowing full well the work load Feliciano has endured these last three years and signed him anyway. Feliciano is the latest in a long line of horrible pitching acquisitions by Cashman. Maybe I'll get into that more later. But you know who they are.
Going back to Mariano Rivera's first year as an understudy under John Wetteland...Now that was abuse. I believe he had over 100 innings pitched as a reliever. Every year Joe Torre had at least one mule that he abused and they were never the same again. Because when Joe Torre didn't trust you, someone else's arm was going to get spent.
If Pedro Feliciano didn't break down he'd be a work horse and Cashman would have authored a savvy signing. But because the "known to be overly taxed" reliever now finds himself on the Yankees DL, he suddenly became a victim of Met Abuse. Forget that the Mets knew enough not to sign him. How convenient for Cashman to say such a thing. If Brian Cashman believes that to be so, then it's time for the Mets to set up a Hot-Line so as to prevent this from ever happening again. How dare Brian Cashman sign a former Met who suddenly became damaged goods. We owe him better than that. Did we forget our lot in life?
But it's more than just Feliciano. Brian Cashman has come a long long way since his days as a Yankee intern. He now rules them with an iron fist and a tongue laced with a dismissive attitude to boot. He was once the master of saying nothing. Now-a-days what he says and how he says it, is an astonishing listen in SMUG - straight out of the School of Robert Moses for Effective Dismissive Speaking and Advancements in Elitism.
Working backwards, the most recent line in the sand he drew was with Jeter's off-season contract extension. The General Manager's demeanor took an unusually disparaging approach in his negotiations. A "be-lucky-you-still-have-a-job" Cashman gauntlet prevents Jorge Posada from "ever" being the Yankees' prideful backstop again. Then there's Joba. In my opinion, the Yankees, and Cashman in particular ruined this kid. And Brian Cashman seems so "Oh Well" about Joba's status. The GM was very displeased with the apparent shape the young hurler came into camp in. But in describing his lack of satisfaction with the situation, he chose to use some very cutting words.
Let's go further; - Back to when A-Rod and Scott Boras chose to use the World Series as their personal platform to announce they were opting out of the rest of their contract (signed with Texas) the Yankees were now in possession of. Brian Cashman ever so matter-of-factly, basically told Alex Rodriguez to beat it. I'd bet the word "scram" was even a thought. If the decision were left solely to Cashman, A-Rod would not be a Yankee today.
There are more players; more instances. Think Bernie Williams. Think Andy Pettitte the first time.
But think back to the ultimatum he challenged George Steinbrenner with. Brian was prepared to walk out the door but still offered advice on what needed to be done in order for the Yankees to maintain sustained success. Some of Cashman's plans addressed the farm system, and other parts of his plan covered salary controls. But most of all, Brian Cashman insisted George dis-ban the little gaggle of subversives in Tampa; Team Tamper as I used to call them. George always played his GM's against his boys in Tampa; among them, pitching "guru" Billy Connors. Cashman basically told George it's either them or me, but someone has to go. So George said, OK Brian. Stay, and you'll have full control. But now your posterior is on the line.. - is basically the tone Boss held with his emboldened GM (almost former GM).
Ever since then, Brian Cashman has spoken with a tongue as shape as a Ginsu.
He now operates like someone who knows he's ready to leave and will walk on the edge just for fun because quitting or getting fired is something he can give less that two fungos about at this point in his Yankee career.
I'm not saying any of this is a bad thing; or good - I'm just saying. It's interesting to remember where he came from within this organization, to the megalomaniac he's slowly growing into now.
Mike.BTB
New York Yankees: The GM laughs little, jokes less, and just doesn't play at all.
There's only one way I can classify Yankee GM Brian Cashman's comments regarding Pedro Feliciano. First this is the Tweet by YES Network's Jack Curry:
@JackCurryYES Jack Curry Feliciano led the major lgs in appearances with the Mets the last 3 yrs. "He was abused," Cashman saidCashman's comments were a direct indictment levied against the New York Mets. As for what I think of that comment? - It's completely comical and absurd. And his increasing curt choice of words delivered with a smug matter-of-fact cockiness is an ongoing indication of how high Cashman's ego has skyrocketed over the last few years.
Why I think his comments are comical have nothing to do with his taking a jab and my team of choice; the New York Mets. No; Cashman's choice words to describe the situation he and his off season bullpen acquisition find themselves in are a reflection of Cashman himself knowing full well the work load Feliciano has endured these last three years and signed him anyway. Feliciano is the latest in a long line of horrible pitching acquisitions by Cashman. Maybe I'll get into that more later. But you know who they are.
Going back to Mariano Rivera's first year as an understudy under John Wetteland...Now that was abuse. I believe he had over 100 innings pitched as a reliever. Every year Joe Torre had at least one mule that he abused and they were never the same again. Because when Joe Torre didn't trust you, someone else's arm was going to get spent.
If Pedro Feliciano didn't break down he'd be a work horse and Cashman would have authored a savvy signing. But because the "known to be overly taxed" reliever now finds himself on the Yankees DL, he suddenly became a victim of Met Abuse. Forget that the Mets knew enough not to sign him. How convenient for Cashman to say such a thing. If Brian Cashman believes that to be so, then it's time for the Mets to set up a Hot-Line so as to prevent this from ever happening again. How dare Brian Cashman sign a former Met who suddenly became damaged goods. We owe him better than that. Did we forget our lot in life?
But it's more than just Feliciano. Brian Cashman has come a long long way since his days as a Yankee intern. He now rules them with an iron fist and a tongue laced with a dismissive attitude to boot. He was once the master of saying nothing. Now-a-days what he says and how he says it, is an astonishing listen in SMUG - straight out of the School of Robert Moses for Effective Dismissive Speaking and Advancements in Elitism.
Working backwards, the most recent line in the sand he drew was with Jeter's off-season contract extension. The General Manager's demeanor took an unusually disparaging approach in his negotiations. A "be-lucky-you-still-have-a-job" Cashman gauntlet prevents Jorge Posada from "ever" being the Yankees' prideful backstop again. Then there's Joba. In my opinion, the Yankees, and Cashman in particular ruined this kid. And Brian Cashman seems so "Oh Well" about Joba's status. The GM was very displeased with the apparent shape the young hurler came into camp in. But in describing his lack of satisfaction with the situation, he chose to use some very cutting words.
Let's go further; - Back to when A-Rod and Scott Boras chose to use the World Series as their personal platform to announce they were opting out of the rest of their contract (signed with Texas) the Yankees were now in possession of. Brian Cashman ever so matter-of-factly, basically told Alex Rodriguez to beat it. I'd bet the word "scram" was even a thought. If the decision were left solely to Cashman, A-Rod would not be a Yankee today.
There are more players; more instances. Think Bernie Williams. Think Andy Pettitte the first time.
But think back to the ultimatum he challenged George Steinbrenner with. Brian was prepared to walk out the door but still offered advice on what needed to be done in order for the Yankees to maintain sustained success. Some of Cashman's plans addressed the farm system, and other parts of his plan covered salary controls. But most of all, Brian Cashman insisted George dis-ban the little gaggle of subversives in Tampa; Team Tamper as I used to call them. George always played his GM's against his boys in Tampa; among them, pitching "guru" Billy Connors. Cashman basically told George it's either them or me, but someone has to go. So George said, OK Brian. Stay, and you'll have full control. But now your posterior is on the line.. - is basically the tone Boss held with his emboldened GM (almost former GM).
Ever since then, Brian Cashman has spoken with a tongue as shape as a Ginsu.
He now operates like someone who knows he's ready to leave and will walk on the edge just for fun because quitting or getting fired is something he can give less that two fungos about at this point in his Yankee career.
I'm not saying any of this is a bad thing; or good - I'm just saying. It's interesting to remember where he came from within this organization, to the megalomaniac he's slowly growing into now.
Mike.BTB
N.Y. METS ~ Opening Day...Take Two
From the desk of: Head-Butting Mr. Met
NEW YORK METS: While I Try And Avoid Temptation, Just Win A Game...OK?
There were a lot of things to mock about yesterday's Opening loss. But it would have been just that; mocking. Because I'm not about to draw any conclusions after one game. It's going to have to take at least...three games! - before I start swinging the pendulum. But seriously. There were a lot of similarities in last night's game that eerily wreak of Met Days of YesterYear/Days. Let's chalk it up to strange coincidence instead of deja-blue, shall we?
Clear your minds and let's try this again tonight. There's forty-five minutes between now and game time for me to have dinner with the Family. I'll be back then, to Tweet-up some Mets. And depending what happens in the game, will determine my frame of mind later. I had a good night's sleep last night and wouldn't mind at all if I took a few swings (at the team) myself.
Later.
Mike.BTB
2011 SEASON RE-OPENING DAY
NEW YORK METS 0-1
vs.
Florida Marlins 1-0
Somewhere in South Florida
NEW YORK METS: While I Try And Avoid Temptation, Just Win A Game...OK?
TAKE TWO!
Clear your minds and let's try this again tonight. There's forty-five minutes between now and game time for me to have dinner with the Family. I'll be back then, to Tweet-up some Mets. And depending what happens in the game, will determine my frame of mind later. I had a good night's sleep last night and wouldn't mind at all if I took a few swings (at the team) myself.
Later.
Mike.BTB
N.Y. ISLANDERS ~ Carolina Hurricanes Blow Into Long Island
TONIGHT
Carolina Hurricanes
9th Place ~ 37-30-10 ~ 84 Points
3 points behind N.Y. Rangers
vs.
NEW YORK ISLANDERS
30-36-12 72 Points
From Uniondale, Long Island
NEW YORK RANGERS ISLANDERS: We're Friends Right?
Hi neighbors! So uh...., How are things? How's the family? I hear Billy Joel decided against writing his autobiography? Was there good fishing in The Sound this year? And how about that Al Montoya? I...uh..
OK Islanders' fans, you got me. This really isn't about you. I didn't mean to lead you on. This is about us; the New York Rangers. We're friends right? All the Potvin Sucks chants are in fun right? You guys have one for us. It's all good....Ain't it?
Alright fine! The enemy of my enemy is my friend. There! We (the Rangers and fans alike) n..ne...nnnnnuh..
We NEED YOU!
You have to beat the Carolina Hurricanes for us tonight! Because this is the time of season when our Coach starts to lose his mind. We've lost our ability to manage our own future. The Blueshirt Power Play couldn't score in a brothel. And now we can't find our backbones. So now....Well.., now we need help. And who better to appeal to for that help than to the most gracious, four time Stanley Cup Champions; fellow Empire State/New Yorkers; our suburban neighbors; -
...The New York Islanders!
You guys are so cool! We are like family right? Sometimes we don't always get along...just like some brothers; but we're brothers none-the-less. Yes??
That's us Man! Brothers! Arm in Arm Man..., United As New Yorkers!
Hey! did I ever tell you I think your logo is one of the best logos in all the major sports? Yea...It's true. Honest.
Did you guys enjoy whooping up on us last Thursday? Sorry that we had so many unruly fans filling your building that night. Someone left our gate open and they got out. And don't worry about Sean Avery's bloody eye. Stuff like that happens...ya know? I'm sure it was just an unfortunate accident; could have happened to anybody.
By the way, the kind of game you played against us the other night (no hard feelings) and against the Penguins...yea - the Trevor Gillies game - Can you guys have another night like that tonight?
Please?
I know you guys have had an awful time with Carolina over the years. They've pretty much had their way with you. So the time to rise up is now! Beat the 'Canes! Youuuu Can Dooo-eet!
I promise you, if you help us out and we do make the playoffs, for my part, I promise I will neither initiate nor participate in a Potvin Sucks chant throughout the time we survive the playoffs (which will probably only be the first round anyway).
I don't think I've treated you guys badly in my blog. Have I? I've been cool...right? So can you do me this solid? Can you beat up on the Carolina Hurricanes for me?
Thanks a lot!
signed,
A Ranger fan From Brooklyn
Mike.BTB
Friday, April 01, 2011
N.Y. RANGERS ~ Blueshirts Get Pucked-Up By The Islanders
NEW YORK RANGERS: The Blueshirts Got Punked!
FINAL
New York Rangers 2
New York Islanders 6
Rattled; Battered; Bullied; Demoralized; Embarrassed; Humiliated: Disrespected; Intimidated:
In addition to all the above, - We Got Punked! The guys from the city went out to Long Island with a throng of fans in tow, thinking they were going to roll a bunch of hicks in their own school yard. The city boys flat out got their asses kicked! News at Eleven!
It's not like the Islanders haven't been involved in these game-long melees before? Coach Capuano's club had absolutely nothing to lose and most reasonably minded Hockey fans could have seen this game coming. Do not get me wrong. I'm not disparaging the Islanders in any way. I'm not blaming them for anything about this game.
My ire is reserved for the New York Rangers for allowing themselves to get punked-out. I blame them for leaving their spines in Buffalo. The New York Islanders made the Rangers look like jelly-fish Thursday night.
The Blueskirts got shut-out by Buffalo's back-up goalie then followed it up with one pathetic goal against their former draft pick; Al Montoya. It might have well been a shut-out because the Rangers never had a chance. The Rangers first goal to open up the scoring was nothing more than a pretty smile before a date from hell.
The Islanders pretty much dominated the early portion of the first period until Vinny Prospal got the Rangers on the scoreboard. Then our Long Island neighbors spent the rest of the first period trying everything in their power to give us the game. But the Rangers wouldn't accept. The Islanders started running wild taking punk-penalties; four to be exact, and the Rangers never capitalized. All hostilities were precipitated by a Marian Gaborik Boarding penalty.
After four unanswered goals in the second period? Ponderous.
Dejected; - A raucous Rangers' crowd travelled all the way to Uniondale for nothing and went back home with less. If anything, the Rangers loss against the New York Islanders was a clinic in how to buckle under pressure. They bloodied us, battered us and beat us.
We're going to Broad Street to meet the Bullies next. They better be ready!
Mike.BTB
FINAL
New York Rangers 2
New York Islanders 6
Rattled; Battered; Bullied; Demoralized; Embarrassed; Humiliated: Disrespected; Intimidated:
In addition to all the above, - We Got Punked! The guys from the city went out to Long Island with a throng of fans in tow, thinking they were going to roll a bunch of hicks in their own school yard. The city boys flat out got their asses kicked! News at Eleven!
It's not like the Islanders haven't been involved in these game-long melees before? Coach Capuano's club had absolutely nothing to lose and most reasonably minded Hockey fans could have seen this game coming. Do not get me wrong. I'm not disparaging the Islanders in any way. I'm not blaming them for anything about this game.
My ire is reserved for the New York Rangers for allowing themselves to get punked-out. I blame them for leaving their spines in Buffalo. The New York Islanders made the Rangers look like jelly-fish Thursday night.
The Blueskirts got shut-out by Buffalo's back-up goalie then followed it up with one pathetic goal against their former draft pick; Al Montoya. It might have well been a shut-out because the Rangers never had a chance. The Rangers first goal to open up the scoring was nothing more than a pretty smile before a date from hell.
The Islanders pretty much dominated the early portion of the first period until Vinny Prospal got the Rangers on the scoreboard. Then our Long Island neighbors spent the rest of the first period trying everything in their power to give us the game. But the Rangers wouldn't accept. The Islanders started running wild taking punk-penalties; four to be exact, and the Rangers never capitalized. All hostilities were precipitated by a Marian Gaborik Boarding penalty.
After four unanswered goals in the second period? Ponderous.
Dejected; - A raucous Rangers' crowd travelled all the way to Uniondale for nothing and went back home with less. If anything, the Rangers loss against the New York Islanders was a clinic in how to buckle under pressure. They bloodied us, battered us and beat us.
We're going to Broad Street to meet the Bullies next. They better be ready!
Mike.BTB
N.Y. METS ~ The 49th Season Of Metropolitan Baseball Starts Now
OPENING DAY
GOOD LUCK THIS SEASON TO ALL!
and now...
From the Desk of: Head-Butting Mr. Met
Welcome to Mets' Year 9 A.D.
(AFTER DOUBLEDAY)
This is
"The Saul B. Katz Dilemma"
We LIVE in the THE AGE of WILPONIANISM
GAME ONE of the 2011 SEASON
NEW YORK METS
vs.
Florida Marlins
From Some Where in South Florida
Dear Fellow Met Fans,
I just don't know. The end. Thank you for your time.
NEW YORK METS: The S.S. Wilpon has sailed into the perfect storm and threatens to sink our team. So what am I so happy about? And what still makes me grumpy?
I was much more angrier heading into last season than I am headed into this one. Last season we were still desperate for changes. This year we start under a new regime with some of the changes having been made. That's a positive right? We all know there will be more changes to come; with some more drastic than we realize. See Jose Reyes.
But there is more for me to be optimistic about this season than last. Yet the cloud hovering over our team grows darker by the day.
The truth is this season will be our most trying season ever. Even after our matriarch and original owner; Mrs. Joan Payson passed away, we knew the plan was for the eventual sale of the Mets in it's entirety. Today we face a radically dis-similar situation with an owner desperately trying to hold on to his team while faced with mounting debt, dwindling assets, plummeting profits and a disconnected fan base. The present owner's thinking is by bringing in a minority partner, their major financial crisis can be more handily managed through the coming rough times ahead. The plan seems a little impotent to me. It makes a Mets' fan almost feel as if we are taking a back seat to Fred Wilpon's grandchildren whom he would love to leave this organization behind to. Woe is us.
In the mean time, what about us? Mr. Wilpon..., if you're not considering that question at this very moment, your attendance figures over the first three months will give you an unsolicited indication (I guess) as to how we feel about our favorite team's ever-dimming outlook. And it won't be because of the players. They are the ones who just may save your company books from reflecting big fat negative zeroes and a lot of red ink. No; instead I'm talking about...You. Your best laid intentions may still go up in smoke if we have little faith in you. You have a lot of winning-over to do, or, hand this team over to someone who can operate the organization in a New York State Of Mind and not from the New York State Social Services office.
But that's not all. I don't enjoy kicking a guy when he's down, and seldom do. But did EVERYTHING Omar Minaya touch turn into coal? It's as if he is eternally cursed for the Bartolo Colon acquisition when he was GM of the Montreal Expos; you know - the deal that single handed rebuilt the Cleveland Indians with one trade.
Omar's last big acquisition as GM of the Mets was Jason Bay. Omar's last hurrah will be starting the season on the DL with..whatever. Me? As you can see I'm viewing Bay's injury with apathy.
Omar's other lingering legacies; Carlos Beltran? - I'm just done. I liked him; defended him; - But I'm done with him. I just want to move on already and hand these jobs over to our younger guys like Lucas Duda and company.. Ditto with the other guy, K-Rod. Done. Johan Santana? Did someone place a curse on Omar? It's all so bizarre.
Francisco Rodriguez brings up a fascinating dilemma in itself because of his appearances clause in his contract. If he makes 55(?) appearances, a $17 million dollar option kicks in? Well, with the Mets as tight as a tourniquet right now money wise, it's unlikely the Mets will let him achieve that appearance plateau. Then, that will probably trigger a grievance by the Player's Union. It should be fun. Don't miss out on all the minutia.
Back to Lucas Duda, that's when I start to get a lot happier about this team. I'm happy because we have a collection of "our guys" on the team. For a change, they are here in bunches. How refreshing. And they're a bunch I'm already very attached to. I don't think it's backlash displacement anger for the other guys. I genuinely like this crop (and this is where Omar will never get a full serving of credit for drafting many of these kids we're about to rely on).
Omar's last big acquisition as GM of the Mets was Jason Bay. Omar's last hurrah will be starting the season on the DL with..whatever. Me? As you can see I'm viewing Bay's injury with apathy.
Omar's other lingering legacies; Carlos Beltran? - I'm just done. I liked him; defended him; - But I'm done with him. I just want to move on already and hand these jobs over to our younger guys like Lucas Duda and company.. Ditto with the other guy, K-Rod. Done. Johan Santana? Did someone place a curse on Omar? It's all so bizarre.
Francisco Rodriguez brings up a fascinating dilemma in itself because of his appearances clause in his contract. If he makes 55(?) appearances, a $17 million dollar option kicks in? Well, with the Mets as tight as a tourniquet right now money wise, it's unlikely the Mets will let him achieve that appearance plateau. Then, that will probably trigger a grievance by the Player's Union. It should be fun. Don't miss out on all the minutia.
Back to Lucas Duda, that's when I start to get a lot happier about this team. I'm happy because we have a collection of "our guys" on the team. For a change, they are here in bunches. How refreshing. And they're a bunch I'm already very attached to. I don't think it's backlash displacement anger for the other guys. I genuinely like this crop (and this is where Omar will never get a full serving of credit for drafting many of these kids we're about to rely on).
Josh Thole? He's my Dude! I have far more confidence in him than the majority of the Media seems to have in him. Ike Davis and the Original Brooklyn Cyclone - Angel Pagan return as most favorite players. I have always been behind Pagan since 2001 when he played for Brooklyn.
Want to know why I'm so with Dillon Gee (AAA), Jonathan Niese and Big Pelf? Because they weren't hyped to kingdom-come like Generation-K was. I like what I see out of those three; more-so when Gee and Niese are concerned. I'm content, and am more than willing to hand those three the ball every fifth day. And I've been a big Bobby Parnell fan also. Jenrry Mejia may yet deliver the goods for us one day, as well as Nieve. But Sandy Alderson made some acquisitions for the pitching staff with high potential reward factors attached. Yea, they are coming off injuries and they scream of moves Omar made. But I'm rolling with it. Chris Capuano and Chris Young will be getting a fair shake from me.
You might call me one of those rare Met fans with patience. But my head is without a doubt, in the new. Above all, I'm just happy to see the new faces; finally. I'm happy to give these guys a full year together. We know what's in store for us Met fans. Don't we? Of course we do. I'm in total break-away mode folks and I know it's going to take another year to continue purging and reconfiguring this team.
That's why I'm going to have fun watching these new Metsies grow-up. I've been wanting it. And now I'm starting to see it. My complaints have been with what remains of the old. And I realize the gutting work is still in progress. Over the years I have screamed loudest for the Wilpons to go off campus and hire a GM unfamiliar to them. They have done that.
So, I must say, according to my own words and wants, I go into 2011 a happier Met fan than last year, oddly, as the organization's foundation and pillars are crumbling before our eyes.
If it's not one thing, it's always another.
Let's Go Mets!
Mike.BTB
Thursday, March 31, 2011
N.Y. RANGERS ~ The Rivalry, Part VI
TONIGHT
NEW YORK RANGERS
vs
New York Islanders
From Uniondale, Long Island
Rangers lead season series 4-1
New York Rangers: Way To Go Guys!!
Last Night's FINAL
New York Rangers 0
Buffalo Sabres 1
They didn't play badly. They just didn't play to win.
Henrik Lundqvist got beat high on the blocker-side, and that was that. Tim Connolly of Buffalo blasted a slap shot past Henrik while everyone was still looking the other way. Well...it was more like we had a three on two short-handed opportunity; had a shot attempt blocked; and then Buffalo skated back the other way, post-haste, and scored a power play goal for the Sabres. The one goal held off Marc Staal's 2nd period interference penalty.
Jhonas Enroth; Remember That Name Ranger Fans. Because if you guys fail to make the playoffs this year, I'll never let you live it down! You got shut out by Jhonas Enroth in the most crucial game of the season. Buffalo's back-up goalie stepped in because Ryan Miller was suffering a "lower body injury" and proceeded to blank the Rangers when they could least afford to lose. We only managed 23 shots against him, while Buffalo peppered the Blueshirts with 35 shots.
The Rangers had a goal waved off... But whatever. Last night was Total Fail - Failure to seize the moment!
They chose to continue doing this the hard way. So now the Rangers sit in eighth place because of tie-breakers. Carolina is only three points away.
Great.. Way to go.
From Buffalo to Eighth to Long Island...... What's next?
GOTTA WIN Boyz. No choice.
For The ISLANDERS ~ Former N.Y. Ranger draft pick; Al Montoya will start tonight in goal in place of Rick DiPietro. The Islanders lost to the Devils last night 3-2 at The Rock in Newark.
Mike.BTB
N.Y. YANKEES ~ Opening Day 2011
From the desk of: Blame Carlos May
The Evil Empire Is Open For Business
Graffiti Mural South 11 Street; Willy'Burg BKN
OK Yankee fans, here's the deal. I am very fair - most days - when it comes to the Yankees.
I call myself a Yankee Hater. And it's true. I revel in their folly. However I don't show it that much. My bark is worse than my bite. I'll take it a step further. I'll say I'm a better Yankee fan than many newer generation Yankee fans. But when I get in my moods, I say a lot of things you Yankee fans don't like to hear, but are none the less true. But that's just when I'm being passive aggressive...ya know?
It goes like this. You must know by now I'm a Mets fan; always have been. My Pop was a Yankees fan though. He and I went to as many Yankee games as we did Mets games. He did me right in that respect. And I still live that way today with my son the Yankee fan. But it's never mattered to me which team is home. If I feel like going to a game, I'll go to either park. Many times I'll antagonize my son during the game, but he does the same to me at Met games. It's pure fun though. At games, I'm weird. Sometimes I'll root for the Yanks if the spirit of the game grabs me (just not against the BoSox and Mets). Sometimes I just sit as as unbiased observer. When the ChiSox come to town, I bust out all my White Sox gear...(family ties ya know).
When I was nine years old. One day after school, I was home doing homework. He called home and told me to be ready when he got there because he scored a pair of tickets to that night's Yankee game. The year was 1976 and the game was the fifth game of the American League Championship Series against the Kansas City Royals. With the score tied 6-6 in the bottom of the ninth inning, Chris Chambliss led-off and hit the first pitch he saw for a home run that won the Yankees the pennant. The on-field pandemonium that ensued was insanity. It remains till this day, as the sickest baseball game I ever attended. He and I danced out in the right field area for a few minutes. Then he had to play responsible Father again and get me safely out of there and back home. The scene was complete chaos. And I'll be honest, - as a 9 year old, it was a slightly scary scene not to mention it was the 70's! Themz were some wacky times. But it's a night I remember like yesterday and one I'll never forget.Next year; 1977 ~ Bat Day at Yankee Stadium. My cousin, three friends, and I, along with my Pop and Uncle went to Bat Day. The five of us kids got in line to get our bats. My cousin got Reggie. I was the last one to receive mine. That mattered not, right? It didn't matter who got theirs when right? My friends pulled down a Mickey Rivers; a Thurman Munson; and a Willie Randolph. Man I couldn't wait for my turn! I was really excited. I was hoping for a Munson. I stepped up and received my bat and walked off to the side where cuz and the rest were checking out the bats they got. They were comparing the names and different lengths of the bats. When I looked down at mine and saw CARLOS MAY? ~ I said aloud, Carlos freakin MAY!?!?! - I damn near flipped! I was like what?! I wanted an exchange. I wanted someone to trade with me. I wanted a different bat other than Carlos Friggin May!! A Piniella bat? Nettles? I would even have taken Oscar Gamble! Chicken Stanley! But Carlos Friggin May? AND...it was the shortest bat of the models! It was the ultimate insult. This day as much as any, started my path towards the dark side. I now began to steadily feel less and less tolerant of the Yankees. And it was at this time that THE BRONX ZOO Days were coming into full swing making me dislike them more. My Mets being in the toilet and Pop reminding me they sucked didn't help either.
Next year; 1978 ~ I was already intrigued by the Red Sox, because as a Mets fan, I hated the Big Red Machine; Cincy Reds. So when the Sox faced Cincy in the Series of '75, I wanted Boston to win. But because I was so involved with watching Yankee games with Pop, I also noticed the Red Sox happened to be the Yanks biggest rival. And I started to like them. Then I started to really like them. When the Yanks and BoSox faced off in the one game playoff for the AL East title to conclude the '78 season, I remember running home from school to watch the game (6th grade?).
When Carl Yastrzemski hit a home run to put the Red Sox ahead early, I was genuinely jubilant. When Yaz ended the game popping out to Craig Nettles at third, I was genuinely pissed off! That's when we can probably pinpoint when I truly became a Yankee antagonist. It was also then, I became a Brooklyn fan of the Boston Red Sox. I still remain one today. Yes, I like the Red Sox. I'm fascinated with Fenway Park, and I dig the city of Boston too. I go as often as I can. Aside from the Mets, Yaz was/is my favorite player of all time.
I am the self-appointed President, Founder, and sole member of BROOKLYN-NATION! I think (I hope I didn't steal that from somebody). But not to be disrespectful to real Red Sox fans, I've never suffered to the degree they did rooting for their team and wouldn't claim to. But I do consider them my secondary team. My other cousin played with their 2007 championship team and that brought me even closer to the team (literally).
1986 Mets vs Red Sox World Series? There was no conflict for me. I AM a Mets fan first and foremost. You do not have to question my loyalties there. I repeat...There is no conflict. But in that year of 1986 and the World Series lies the whole rub of my quasi-Baseball mixed salad. From the latter part of 1985 through 1990 I was away in the Army. It was a great five years by the way. The point is I missed our Mets' glory years. I wasn't here for them and I am too young for 1969's championship. Thus, the Chris Chambliss game remains as the single most sickest game I have ever been a part of.
So back to the Yanks..., the truth is, I treat the Yankees like a Brother from another Mother. I'm a New Yorker first and I love having two teams in town. I will go to Yankee Stadium as easily as I go to Citi Field. I just love being at a ballgame. I've always been one to take advantage of the fact we have two teams. You must also know, I always loved old Yankee Stadium II.
So that's where I stand. I do have a small spot in my heart for this team because of that Chambliss Home Run in '76. And here's another for you... In 1995, my cousin played for the Mariners. I want you to know I rooted for the Yankees in the playoffs against Seattle in spite of that fact. When Donnie Baseball connected during back-to-back home runs, I like everybody else in the place went bonkers. When Bernie Williams got thrown out at home I grabbed my head with my hands yelling NOOOoooo! - also. Then when Leyritz hit his winning home run in the unteenth inning, I like everyone else remaining till the end went nuts. But outside of those two moments/games, I don't have anymore stories of me perpetrating to be a closet Yankee fan. I'm not. But I cheered like hell for Jim Abbott to get his no-hitter. I was there for that. And I forgot to mention I was at Gooden's no-hitter because they played the Mariners and I get the comps from my Cuz. OK...so Now...you're welcome to find out just what kind of Met fan I really am. But like I said, I'm fair. And above all else, I love Baseball. I don't have a problem giving the Yankees full credit for anything when credit is due. But when the fans jerk the chain of death...well then..., I'm not responsible and may...
So if come here to read any of my Yankee posts, I have some favorite players, and I'm generally a fair guy. I'll give you a decent read and a baseball/responsible take on things. But every once in a while, I'm going to release the good natured hate from within. I'll take jabs, make jokes and be derisive (but not too much). It's designed for a laugh, so don't take offense...OK? I don't do to the Yankees what I wouldn't do to my own team.
So, I wish you Bronx Bombers luck this season.
May your days at the HOUSE WHERE SPARKY USED TO SPIT be filled with good times this season; just not too good...okay?
P.S. I've decided to name the Yankees portion of my blog ~ BLAME CARLOS MAY
Do you approve? I'll be thinking about this. I may change it. But for right now, it works for me. Tell me what you think.
OPENING DAY ~ 2011 SEASON
The 108th Season in New York Highlander/Yankee History
THURSDAY AFTERNOON
Detroit Tigers
vs.
NEW YORK YANKEES
From the Highlander Museum and Baseball Park
161st Street and River Avenue
BRONX
Mike.BTB
A fan of 30 baseball teams and a junkie of One
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
N.Y. RANGERS ~ The BATTLE OF NEW YORK
EASTERN CONFERENCE SHOWDOWN
THE EMPIRE STATE FACE-OFF
EASTERN N.Y. vs. WESTERN N.Y.
NEW YORK RANGERS
7th Place 41-30-5 87 Points
vs.
BUFFALO SABRES
8th Place 38-29-9 85 Points
Buffalo Sabres: (6 games remaining)
The Buffalo Sabres are on the cusp of completing a most impressive turn-around. They got off to a terribly sloppy start to begin the season, and to their credit have worked furiously to be in the position they find themselves in today. The Buffalo Sabres have the benefit of playing the Devils, Maple Leafs, Rangers and Hurricanes down the stretch. Their fortuitous schedule affords them the luxury of keeping a grip on their own destiny and eighth place (for the moment) in the Eastern Conference.
The Devils? Check. Buffalo pretty much ended New Jersey's season last Saturday with a 2-0 blanking of the Devils in Buffalo. The win earned them points two crucial points that came on the heals of the N.Y. Rangers shut-out over Boston earlier that day.
Tuesday night against Toronto, the Sabres had an opportunity to tie the idle Rangers with 87 points. A Montreal loss Tuesday night, coupled with a Sabres win against Toronto, would have caused a three-way tie for the bottom three playoff spots in the Eastern Conference between Montreal, New York, and Buffalo (with Carolina knocking on the door).
How did it play out?
Buffalo @ Toronto
FINAL ~ Toronto 4; Buffalo 3
Two goals in the first period and two more goals in the second period were too much for Buffalo to over-come against Toronto. In the first period, Toronto jumped out to a 2-0 lead with an early goal by Dion Phaneuf and a late goal by Darryl Boyce. But just before the first period horn sounded, Buffalo's Thomas Vanek got one back at the 19:48 mark of a very cleanly played first period.
In the second period, Toronto struck first again with a goal from Clarke MacArthur to make the score 3-1 in favor of Toronto. About a minute and a half later, Buffalo decided to tie this contest at three. At 6:25, Jason Pominville scored and thirty seconds later Rod Niedermayer scored again for Buffalo to knot things up at three apiece.
But Toronto has been resilient and decided they were going matter down the stretch. After that burst by the Sabres, Toronto put Buffalo right back down when Mikhail Grabovski scored at the 13:35 mark of the second period. And that was that. The third period remained scoreless and the Sabres did not capitalize on two points that would have tied them with the Rangers heading into their showdown Wednesday evening.
Ryan Miller who has been playing as well as ever got credited with a tough loss. It was because of him, the score against the Maple Leafs stayed respectable. The shots-on-goal were pretty even but Miller made spectacular saves for Buffalo.
Tonight's Buffalo loss allowed Carolina to get two points closer to the eighth spot. Buffalo still stands at 85 points while Carolina up-ticked to 82 points. Toronto has now also joined the 80 point club.
Buffalo will be playing back-to-back games while the Rangers have been off since Saturday afternoon.
Buffalo Fans ~ Follow @PatMalacaroWGR on Twitter.
Atlanta @ Montreal
FINAL ~ Montreal 3; Atlanta 1
Montreal straightened out after slipping. Instead of potentially being in a three-way tie, with their win Tuesday, they up-ticked over the N.Y. Rangers by two points. With 89 points, it's now up to the Rangers to keep pace with Montreal.
The Atlanta Thrashers? Atlanta, meet the Devils. Devils, meet Atlanta. Both of you guys are done. Go find something to do.
Carolina @ Washington
FINAL ~ Carolina 3; Washington 2 - Shoot-Out
It took a lot of hard work and a shoot-out, but the Carolina Hurricanes kept their hopes alive with a big win over number two seeded Washington. Carolina is still square in Buffalo's and New York's rear-view mirror and don't seem willing to go away. They now have 82 points leaving them only three behind Buffalo.
The New Look Eastern Conference:
#1 ~ Philadelphia
#2 ~ Washington
#3 ~ Boston
#4 ~ Pittsburgh
#5 ~ Tampa Bay
#6 ~ Montreal ~ 89 points
#7 ~ NEW YORK ~ 87 points
#8 ~ Buffalo ~ 85 points
-----------------------------------
#9 ~ Carolina ~ 82 points
#10 ~ Toronto ~ 80 Points
NEW YORK RANGERS: (6 games remaining).
My last post, King Lundqvist XI still covers most everything I want to say for the moment. You can check that out if you like.
My last post, King Lundqvist XI still covers most everything I want to say for the moment. You can check that out if you like.
Three days off? They needed the rest; especially Henrik Lundqvist and maybe to a lesser degree, Marc Staal.
But, boy do I hate these long lay-offs. I think they're momentum killers. And right now, the Rangers have a ton of momentum on their side.
As well as we've been feeling about the Rangers' late season surge, Buffalo is still right there breathing down our necks. With a loss Wednesday night, our back-side will be exposed and sitting tied in eighth place.
The big question going into this game is ~ Who is going to be the next healthy scratch? Is it within Coach Torts to give Sean Avery a second consecutive start fresh off Avery getting into a fight on his first shift, in his first game back, after being a repeated healthy scratch?
Postscript:
I started writing this post yesterday. So, I just learned Ryan Miller will not start in goal tonight for Buffalo due to the ol' "Upper Body Injury". The Blueshirts should consider themselves fortunate for this development. He's been in classic form lately It's a good break for us; bad for Buffalo. It will be bad for us too if we do not capitalize. Now with Ryan Miller out, the Ranger MUST seize the moment. This is their biggest game of the season to date.
The Big Bash In Buffalo
Let's Do This!
LET'S GO RANGERS!
Mike.BTB
KNICKS vs. NETS ~ Wednesday Night Hoops
WEDNESDAY NIGHT HOOPS
New Jersey Nets
vs.
New York Knicks
Madison Square Garden
33rd Street and 7th Avenue
33rd Street and 7th Avenue
Most Talk Of A Budding Rivalry Is Taking A Back Seat This Time Around With Both Teams Having More Pressing Issues As The Season Winds Down.
This rivalry will have it's day. It's just not Wednesday. Actually after the Melo Trade Drama and the Nets acquisition of Deron Williams, things have been fairly quiet between the two camps. James Dolan and Mikhail Prokhorov are out of the headlines for the moment and attending to owner's stuff I assume. Since the last time these teams met, the Nets went across the Pond to play a pair of games in England and the Knicks shocked their fans with massive ticket increases.
On the court, the Knicks are still trying to mesh together. The Defense is non-existent and the Offense isn't where everyone thought it would be. As for the Nets, they better be real careful as to how they deal with Deron Williams' injured wrist.
KNICK NEWS: It took overtime, but the Knicks finally snapped their six game loosing streak that frazzled everyone from Melo and the Media, to D'Antoni, and the fans. Melo dropped thirty-nine points in the win.
FINAL ~ 113-106 Knicks over Magic.
From the Taken Out of Context Department: Melo doesn't want to play upwards of forty minutes a game? Amare' can't drive an hour out of town for a team shoot-around? Really?
Coach D'Antoni breaks out in a rash any time you bring up defense. If you read between the lines, he'll tell you his defense IS his offense. But it's the offense that has struggled of late. And that reminds me of the league wide welcome mat placed in our defensive paint in the absence a big man. And when is the Garden crown going to get it? Save your breath and stop chanting DE-FENSE!! I know that's our thing for a long time, but right now, it's useless. It's laughable for the crowd to chant De-Fense when there are pigeons landing on Knick players imitating statues on the defensive end.
And for what ever reason, this team carries itself like it's already clinched a playoff spot and is just finishing out the string now. Doesn't it? I have a lot of opinions about these Knicks. And most of them aren't good.
But I'm going to ease into all that. I don't want to make it seem like I'm just surfing the wave of negativity especially after I haven't posted about the Knicks much lately.
The truth is I was never a big fan of Melo. However, I do feel the trade was still worth pursuing. And I do think he can work here. But I don't have any visions of grandeur or lofty expectations for this Knick team as presently constituted should we wind up in the playoffs. I just can't get the vision of Carmelo Anthony sucker-punching Mardy Collins several years back out of my head. ...But that's just me.
On the other hand...
NETS NEWS: Tonight versus the HOUSTON ROCKETS:
FINAL:
Houston Rockets 112
New Jersey Nets 87
Deron Williams looks like he may be ready to make a return against the Knicks after missing the last six games. Coach Avery said it best when he stated one big game will not make him (Coach Avery) jeopardize Deron's long-term health. Deron says the wrist feels better. I'd have concern because this is a recurring injury. But I'd be pretty cautious if I were the Nets. Managing this injury will weigh into Deron's decision to re-sign here as much as any factor he'll take into consideration. And I have to admit, the trio of Williams, Brook Lopez and Kris Humphries intrigues me. Some complimentary pieces around them and...ya never know. But that's up to Billy King.
Speaking of Kris Humphries - Life seems to be quiet lovely for him these days. What's better than a stroll through NYC's Meatpacking District with his Gal? Or, is the article possibly implying, "Mister" Kardashian is being accompanied by his larger than life Lady Friend? Quite the paradox...No? (Uh...No!)
AAR/Fame Pictures ~ N.Y. Post
And sorry Kim, these are the curves that have my attention. Just take at look at these...
Barclays Center ~ Downtown Brooklyn
Future Home of the New Jersey Nets
...ain't she a beauty?
KNICKS vs. NETS
A Rivalry Grows
RELATED LINKS:
Youngest Players In The NBA Today; by Joe Dorish - YahooSports Hint...Derrick Favors.
Mike.BTB
Monday, March 28, 2011
BARCLAYS CENTER ~ Arching Over Atlantic Avenue
BARCLAYS CENTER
BROOKLYN
BROOKLYN
March 28, 2011
RELATED ARTICLES:
Mike.BTB
Sunday, March 27, 2011
N.Y. RANGERS ~ King Lundqvist XI
NEW YORK RANGERS: One Goal Is Fine With Henrik; Lundqvist Is Great For Us.
FINAL
New York 1; Boston 0
Henrik Lundqvist's league leading 11th shut-out of the season left little doubt as to how the Rangers plan on playing deep into April and hopefully beyond. Yes, of course I am assuming a Blueshirt appearance in the playoffs here. But their formula for success basically boils down to one or two goals a game; tenacious defense, and their Goalie providing nightly miracles. No secret there. But the team has given Coach Tort's vision of them, a physical identity and it all starts with our goalie; the goalie Coach Torts challenged to ignore a pain in the neck.
Over his last ten games, The King is 8-1-1 with a 1.67 Goals Against Average. In that span, he has recorded three shut-outs, to include yesterday afternoon's 11th of the season versus Boston.
I questioned in my last post how much the loss of Marty Biron will affect us down the stretch. Last season, the Rangers had to go on a late season tear to put themselves into a position to play Philly in that fateful end of season battle for eighth place that ended in a New York Rangers shoot-out loss and no playoffs. Henrik Lundqvist played 17 consecutive games down the stretch as the Rangers suffered inadequate back-up syndrome all season long. After the season Henrik admitted the work load took a slight toll on him and his knees wound up requiring treatment. Marty Biron was supposed to rectify that problem for us. He served the role marvelously until he too went down to injury like many Rangers this season. This last game against Boston was Lundqvist's 21st consecutive start between the pipes as the Rangers try to cling to their currently held 7th playoff spot. However, instead of showing signs of wearing down, Henrik seems to be surging at the right moment and appears eager to carry the team on his back through a potential post season.
But now the word is out on New York's goalie. And Ranger Defense-men better take notes; - Henrik is tending net like The King again, and the only way to knock him off his game is to roll the goalie. Montreal, Pittsburgh and Boston all took runs at our Liege in consecutive games. This isn't incidental contact anymore. This is scouting report stuff just like beating him glove high once was. He's been playing with a stiff neck and has responded with shut-outs. The Bruins peppered Henrik with shots in the third period Saturday and the Rangers' goalie denied them all. So you can beat on Henrik, but you can't break him. But the Blueshirts had better be well prepared to defend him and fight for him. Henrik will now have a much needed three full days off before a major show down with the Buffalo Sabres this coming Wednesday night.
Taking a Que from their goalie, the Blueshirt skaters in front of him are themselves sacrificing their bodies and allowing themselves to get peppered with shots; in the form of Blocked Shots; a courageous amount of blocked shots. This is what Coach Torts has demanded of his team. But to watch them put it into action, it's almost as if they're doing it for fun; painful fun. And the more shots you take at them, the wider their smile (or grimace) about it becomes.
There-in lies the unspoken mantra of this team; No Pain, No Gain - Success comes with a price. Boston came out hitting the Blueshirts hard and often. But the Rangers absorbed hits and gave em back; just ask Chara. Taking the body in addition to the blocked shots? - That's called taking the body to another level. While admirable and gladiatorial in their execution, how much can one Blueshirt take? In this case, it's a nice problem for the Blueshirt faithful to ponder due to the strongest indications yet, the Rangers are officially a major factor in the Eastern Conference despite what a 7th seed may inspire you to think.
This is based on recent wins against Philadelphia, San Jose and recurring poundings they issued against Washington this season. There have been gritty give-and-takes against Pittsburgh and multiple wins against Boston. A resounding victory at the Garden against Montreal and PITT may have been followed up with suspect efforts against Florida and Ottawa, but making one goal stand up to Boston when bearing down was order of the day, is hopefully more indicative of this team than the one that tended to play down to last week's opponents.
This team is what it is; and that means good enough to play with every team in the League. In addition to victories against the teams mentioned above, they own wins against the likes of Chicago and Vancouver. However, if there is a team the Rangers have absolutely no answer for, it's the Tampa Bay Lightning. That's just not happening for us. But let's let optimism dance in our minds for a day before we get back to the mindless grind of focusing on the moment when taking the ice against the Sabres in Buffalo later this week.
As of today, Sunday, March 27, 2011, the Rangers have 87 points in the Eastern Conference standings. Last season, they finished with 87 points and a 38-33-11 record which was bad enough for ninth place. This season, the Rangers have already amassed a record of 41-30-5. They've improved on last season by three wins thus far with six games left to play.
Last season, the Rangers ended up with 219 goals-for, which rated them 16th in the league. Today, they currently rank 11th in the league and fourth in their conference with 218; again, with six games left to play.
Now if you really put your thinking caps on, you'll remember how most experts predicted the Rangers would not make the playoffs this season. At the most optimistic, we (me, Media and fans) thought they'd be battling for eighth place. Some predicted the Rangers to fall to as low as 12th or 13th in the conference.
Well according to the spread Glen Sather set on the table back in October, predictions of the Blueshirt decline started materializing by Thanksgiving and we all thought many Fans would not survive another coming cruel winter and perish like modern urban hockey pilgrims.
Chris Drury, Alex Frolov and even Vinny Prospal (who has played exceptionally well since his return with 17 points in 23 games) was the plan remember? And Marian Gaborik was supposed to be the guy who buttered our bread. Fedotenko? Boogaard?
I know.
Well, Gaborik has done well to grind back to respectability and now has 22 goals in 56 games played. But the Rangers' successes have their genesis in Glen Sather's failures, and in their place, come all the players responsible for improvements upon last year and our viability as an Eastern Conference team capable of playing out of this eight team bracket.
Improvement was expected of Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan and they've largely played-up to the task. But Brian Boyle and his 21 goals; Artem Anisimov with 18 goals; Derek Stepan with 20 goals; and even Brandon Prust chipping in with his 12 goals have been the success stories and part of the very promising in-season turn-around the Rangers managed on the fly. When we take the other names like Michael Sauer, Mats Zuccarello, Ryan McDonagh and other blue-collar workmen on this team and add them to the story, would you agree this spring is shaping up to be unlike the one's we've been embarrassed by during our playoff appearances under Tom Renny? And shouldn't we give, not only these kids who saved our season for us, but to the Coach who managed, toughened them up, and demanded they be something better than they thought they could be, his equal share of credit?
As of today, we are tied with Montreal for 6th place in the Conference standings with 87 points. Fresh off beating New Jersey, the eighth place Sabres now have 85 points and play Tuesday night against Toronto before facing off against the Rangers the following night. The Sabres can very well end Toronto's season and become tied with the Rangers at 87 points by the time Wednesday rolls around.
Whether the Rangers are making strides towards the future or running away from the past, they will do so first with a short little tour of New York State. Wednesday night's game against the Buffalo Sabres is set up to be a most Epic Clash. Then from Western New York, the Blueshirts must travel to Long Island for a game the next night before returning home.
The SEAN AVERY REPORT:
Mats Zuccarello was the healthy scratch this time. Sean Avery's last game was an incredulous effort against the Islanders. He's been a healthy scratch four out of the last five games. So what does he do on his first shift of the game? Just over two and a half minutes into the game he dropped gloves with Boston's Gregory Campbell. - Five for fighting and really no harm done man-power wise. Coach Torts would allow him only another 5:45 of ice time the rest of the night as he was limited to 9 shifts; by far the team's lowest.
Heading into the game against Buffalo, there are only three questions:
1) - Does Coach Torts scratch Mats Zuccarello again in favor of Avery?
2) - Does Coach Torts scratch Sean Avery again?
3) - Does Coach Torts scratch someone else (Christensen) and keep Avery on the ice again?
We shall see.
Mike.BTB
FINAL
New York 1; Boston 0
Henrik Lundqvist's league leading 11th shut-out of the season left little doubt as to how the Rangers plan on playing deep into April and hopefully beyond. Yes, of course I am assuming a Blueshirt appearance in the playoffs here. But their formula for success basically boils down to one or two goals a game; tenacious defense, and their Goalie providing nightly miracles. No secret there. But the team has given Coach Tort's vision of them, a physical identity and it all starts with our goalie; the goalie Coach Torts challenged to ignore a pain in the neck.
Over his last ten games, The King is 8-1-1 with a 1.67 Goals Against Average. In that span, he has recorded three shut-outs, to include yesterday afternoon's 11th of the season versus Boston.
I questioned in my last post how much the loss of Marty Biron will affect us down the stretch. Last season, the Rangers had to go on a late season tear to put themselves into a position to play Philly in that fateful end of season battle for eighth place that ended in a New York Rangers shoot-out loss and no playoffs. Henrik Lundqvist played 17 consecutive games down the stretch as the Rangers suffered inadequate back-up syndrome all season long. After the season Henrik admitted the work load took a slight toll on him and his knees wound up requiring treatment. Marty Biron was supposed to rectify that problem for us. He served the role marvelously until he too went down to injury like many Rangers this season. This last game against Boston was Lundqvist's 21st consecutive start between the pipes as the Rangers try to cling to their currently held 7th playoff spot. However, instead of showing signs of wearing down, Henrik seems to be surging at the right moment and appears eager to carry the team on his back through a potential post season.
But now the word is out on New York's goalie. And Ranger Defense-men better take notes; - Henrik is tending net like The King again, and the only way to knock him off his game is to roll the goalie. Montreal, Pittsburgh and Boston all took runs at our Liege in consecutive games. This isn't incidental contact anymore. This is scouting report stuff just like beating him glove high once was. He's been playing with a stiff neck and has responded with shut-outs. The Bruins peppered Henrik with shots in the third period Saturday and the Rangers' goalie denied them all. So you can beat on Henrik, but you can't break him. But the Blueshirts had better be well prepared to defend him and fight for him. Henrik will now have a much needed three full days off before a major show down with the Buffalo Sabres this coming Wednesday night.
Taking a Que from their goalie, the Blueshirt skaters in front of him are themselves sacrificing their bodies and allowing themselves to get peppered with shots; in the form of Blocked Shots; a courageous amount of blocked shots. This is what Coach Torts has demanded of his team. But to watch them put it into action, it's almost as if they're doing it for fun; painful fun. And the more shots you take at them, the wider their smile (or grimace) about it becomes.
There-in lies the unspoken mantra of this team; No Pain, No Gain - Success comes with a price. Boston came out hitting the Blueshirts hard and often. But the Rangers absorbed hits and gave em back; just ask Chara. Taking the body in addition to the blocked shots? - That's called taking the body to another level. While admirable and gladiatorial in their execution, how much can one Blueshirt take? In this case, it's a nice problem for the Blueshirt faithful to ponder due to the strongest indications yet, the Rangers are officially a major factor in the Eastern Conference despite what a 7th seed may inspire you to think.
This is based on recent wins against Philadelphia, San Jose and recurring poundings they issued against Washington this season. There have been gritty give-and-takes against Pittsburgh and multiple wins against Boston. A resounding victory at the Garden against Montreal and PITT may have been followed up with suspect efforts against Florida and Ottawa, but making one goal stand up to Boston when bearing down was order of the day, is hopefully more indicative of this team than the one that tended to play down to last week's opponents.
This team is what it is; and that means good enough to play with every team in the League. In addition to victories against the teams mentioned above, they own wins against the likes of Chicago and Vancouver. However, if there is a team the Rangers have absolutely no answer for, it's the Tampa Bay Lightning. That's just not happening for us. But let's let optimism dance in our minds for a day before we get back to the mindless grind of focusing on the moment when taking the ice against the Sabres in Buffalo later this week.
As of today, Sunday, March 27, 2011, the Rangers have 87 points in the Eastern Conference standings. Last season, they finished with 87 points and a 38-33-11 record which was bad enough for ninth place. This season, the Rangers have already amassed a record of 41-30-5. They've improved on last season by three wins thus far with six games left to play.
Last season, the Rangers ended up with 219 goals-for, which rated them 16th in the league. Today, they currently rank 11th in the league and fourth in their conference with 218; again, with six games left to play.
Now if you really put your thinking caps on, you'll remember how most experts predicted the Rangers would not make the playoffs this season. At the most optimistic, we (me, Media and fans) thought they'd be battling for eighth place. Some predicted the Rangers to fall to as low as 12th or 13th in the conference.
Well according to the spread Glen Sather set on the table back in October, predictions of the Blueshirt decline started materializing by Thanksgiving and we all thought many Fans would not survive another coming cruel winter and perish like modern urban hockey pilgrims.
Chris Drury, Alex Frolov and even Vinny Prospal (who has played exceptionally well since his return with 17 points in 23 games) was the plan remember? And Marian Gaborik was supposed to be the guy who buttered our bread. Fedotenko? Boogaard?
I know.
Well, Gaborik has done well to grind back to respectability and now has 22 goals in 56 games played. But the Rangers' successes have their genesis in Glen Sather's failures, and in their place, come all the players responsible for improvements upon last year and our viability as an Eastern Conference team capable of playing out of this eight team bracket.
Improvement was expected of Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan and they've largely played-up to the task. But Brian Boyle and his 21 goals; Artem Anisimov with 18 goals; Derek Stepan with 20 goals; and even Brandon Prust chipping in with his 12 goals have been the success stories and part of the very promising in-season turn-around the Rangers managed on the fly. When we take the other names like Michael Sauer, Mats Zuccarello, Ryan McDonagh and other blue-collar workmen on this team and add them to the story, would you agree this spring is shaping up to be unlike the one's we've been embarrassed by during our playoff appearances under Tom Renny? And shouldn't we give, not only these kids who saved our season for us, but to the Coach who managed, toughened them up, and demanded they be something better than they thought they could be, his equal share of credit?
As of today, we are tied with Montreal for 6th place in the Conference standings with 87 points. Fresh off beating New Jersey, the eighth place Sabres now have 85 points and play Tuesday night against Toronto before facing off against the Rangers the following night. The Sabres can very well end Toronto's season and become tied with the Rangers at 87 points by the time Wednesday rolls around.
Whether the Rangers are making strides towards the future or running away from the past, they will do so first with a short little tour of New York State. Wednesday night's game against the Buffalo Sabres is set up to be a most Epic Clash. Then from Western New York, the Blueshirts must travel to Long Island for a game the next night before returning home.
The SEAN AVERY REPORT:
Mats Zuccarello was the healthy scratch this time. Sean Avery's last game was an incredulous effort against the Islanders. He's been a healthy scratch four out of the last five games. So what does he do on his first shift of the game? Just over two and a half minutes into the game he dropped gloves with Boston's Gregory Campbell. - Five for fighting and really no harm done man-power wise. Coach Torts would allow him only another 5:45 of ice time the rest of the night as he was limited to 9 shifts; by far the team's lowest.
Heading into the game against Buffalo, there are only three questions:
1) - Does Coach Torts scratch Mats Zuccarello again in favor of Avery?
2) - Does Coach Torts scratch Sean Avery again?
3) - Does Coach Torts scratch someone else (Christensen) and keep Avery on the ice again?
We shall see.
Mike.BTB
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