Hipchecks - A Phoenix Coyotes Blog
Last night the Coyotes played the redwings and as always it was one interesting game.
The best part of the game might have been the guy sitting in the row in front of us. He was obnoxiously cheering for Detroit and it was pretty obvious he didn't know anything about the team (not that uncommon 'round here). Later he admits to being an LA King fan. Ohhh, that explains the total douchebaggery going on there. He also thinks the Kings would beat the redwings in the playoffs or something like that. He was too insignificant to care to remember exactly what he said. He was trying to talk shit and he asked about where we were compared to the kings in the standings. I told him at this point the standings mean nothing and that shut him up for the most part. It also looked like he was wearing a nipple on his head... I think it was supposed to be a beanie. I think.
The next best was the girl behind me. She was wearing a shiny, brand new red Pavel Datsyuk jersey. It probably still had the price tags on it from when she grabbed it at Just Sports before the game. She was quiet during the entire game until Detroit was on the powerplay in the third (the third too many men of the night - communicate guys!). Detroit was trying to set up the shot but the lanes were clogged. She yelled out "SHOOT!" really loudly (my pet peeve... grr) and so I said to the BF, sure, go ahead and shoot Detroit. It'll never get through but yes go ahead, shoot. BF and I joked about it a bit and apparently she overheard. She suddenly became this obnoxious screaming fan who knew nothing about what she was saying. After Bertuzzi's goal, she started screaming and jumping around like they had just won the stanley cup. It was a little (ok, a lot) ridiculous.
I am still pondering what a guy a few rows in front of us was trying to say. He kept yelling, "Don't rub it" during the third. BF and people around us didn't get it either. None of us had ever heard "don't rub it" used during a hockey game before. Anyone have any idea what he was trying to say?
Raffi scores a goal.
Oh yah, there was a game wasn't there... Well, ummm, we tied. Went to OT. Went to a shootout. Mike Smith had some amazing saves. Bertuzzi made a douchebag move, scored. Wings won. Wings fans act like they just won game 7 of the stanley cup finals. PS I still hate shootouts. And I will never like them. Why don't we decide baseball by who hits the most homeruns out of three rounds? Or who makes the most half court shots in basketball? Or which kicker scores the most field goals in three rounds? Because those are lame ways to determine the outcome of a team sport. Gah.
Picture taken from here. Please go enjoy the rest of the gallery from the game.
Until next time...
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The best part of the game might have been the guy sitting in the row in front of us. He was obnoxiously cheering for Detroit and it was pretty obvious he didn't know anything about the team (not that uncommon 'round here). Later he admits to being an LA King fan. Ohhh, that explains the total douchebaggery going on there. He also thinks the Kings would beat the redwings in the playoffs or something like that. He was too insignificant to care to remember exactly what he said. He was trying to talk shit and he asked about where we were compared to the kings in the standings. I told him at this point the standings mean nothing and that shut him up for the most part. It also looked like he was wearing a nipple on his head... I think it was supposed to be a beanie. I think.
The next best was the girl behind me. She was wearing a shiny, brand new red Pavel Datsyuk jersey. It probably still had the price tags on it from when she grabbed it at Just Sports before the game. She was quiet during the entire game until Detroit was on the powerplay in the third (the third too many men of the night - communicate guys!). Detroit was trying to set up the shot but the lanes were clogged. She yelled out "SHOOT!" really loudly (my pet peeve... grr) and so I said to the BF, sure, go ahead and shoot Detroit. It'll never get through but yes go ahead, shoot. BF and I joked about it a bit and apparently she overheard. She suddenly became this obnoxious screaming fan who knew nothing about what she was saying. After Bertuzzi's goal, she started screaming and jumping around like they had just won the stanley cup. It was a little (ok, a lot) ridiculous.
I am still pondering what a guy a few rows in front of us was trying to say. He kept yelling, "Don't rub it" during the third. BF and people around us didn't get it either. None of us had ever heard "don't rub it" used during a hockey game before. Anyone have any idea what he was trying to say?
Raffi scores a goal.
Oh yah, there was a game wasn't there... Well, ummm, we tied. Went to OT. Went to a shootout. Mike Smith had some amazing saves. Bertuzzi made a douchebag move, scored. Wings won. Wings fans act like they just won game 7 of the stanley cup finals. PS I still hate shootouts. And I will never like them. Why don't we decide baseball by who hits the most homeruns out of three rounds? Or who makes the most half court shots in basketball? Or which kicker scores the most field goals in three rounds? Because those are lame ways to determine the outcome of a team sport. Gah.
Picture taken from here. Please go enjoy the rest of the gallery from the game.
Until next time...
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I love day games. I wish none of us had to work and all games could be during the day. It was a great game at that too.
The Coyotes haven't been playing badly these last few games but for whatever reason they just couldn't get a lot of wins. Yesterday was a great game/effort by all Coyotes on the ice. I don't think there was one guy who wasn't playing balls to the wall. The entire Avalanche team appeared not to care. They had no jump, no energy and Varlamov seemed to just give up about half way through. Final: 6-1 Coyotes.
The worse thing about the game? The anthem singer. She has done games before but appears to have gotten worse. I'm not sure why a 14 year old (or so, maybe older?) would want to embarrass themselves like that. Was that too mean?
The best? My man Klesla got his second goal of the year! He is turning into a real renaissance man; he's good at defense, blocking shots and is now becoming a scoring machine! ;)
The next best? Brule. Wow. I wasn't expecting much from him but he really put everything out there. He had some of the best passes I have seen in awhile. And he was everywhere. He also wasn't taking shit from the Colorado players who seemed to be really into hooking (and cross checking). He also opened up the scoring with a rocket of a shot early in the first. I hope to see more of Brule and hope he can keep it up. If so, he will fit in pretty nicely here. It also doesn't hurt that he seems to have a bit of speed to him.
The star of the game though had to be the top of the faceoff circle in the north left. There must have been some divot in the ice because it was catching every one's skate. They'd be traveling full speed, hit that spot and one leg would stop and the player wouldn't and just fall down. It was becoming quite hilarious to watch.
Also, I still love Gordon. I told you before that he would be good on faceoffs and good guy to replace Fiddler here. Yesterday he showed he can also score a couple of goals now and then. He had two great goals. Both times he was fighting off Colorado players. His first goal probably would have been a penalty shot if it had not gone in. Colorado were all over him like white on rice alllllllll game but he just battled through him like it was nothing. Like they were some little gnat buzzing around. This was Gordon's first two goal game and he got his 100th point. Awesome!
Doan must think he got one hat trick and doesn't need anymore. He had another two goal game but when placed on the ice the last minute or so, with Gordon, he was more focused on trying to get his teammate his first hat trick. That is my Captain bitches. Love it.
Chris Summers also had a heck of a game with two assists (and his first NHL points) and was a +3. Not bad, not bad at all. DMo also played pretty well compared to his pre-benching play. He had an assist but was still a -1. He wasn't owning "new Jovo" chatter from me this game. I really want to see Boedker get some goals. I just feel he needs to. Smith had a great game too, making 38 saves. I don't need a shut out, I just need a win and that is what he gave us. The lady behind me was cracking me up. Every Time Smith left his net she'd be like, "get back in your frickin crease goalie". Every.Single.Time. And yes, she said frickin the entire time. I think they were Canadian because they were convinced the team was moving to Canada because Bettman ok'd 22 million in updates to their arena. Yes, because Bettman tells people when to update arenas. Otherwise no one can update an arena unless Bettman says so. Ugh. Make it stop please.
Too bad Chipchura couldn't have gotten a goal. I haven't seen a Gordie Howe hat trick in awhile. He had a good fight early one. And if I recall, that was really the Coyotes only penalty.
Overall, this was a great game for the Coyotes. Everyone was playing and the scoring was coming from everyone. This is what we need more of, not that I would mind if we got a consistent goal scorer. Don't get me wrong, I like Vrby but he has never been known for consistency. He scores in bunches. He just happens to be scoring more during his scoring streaks. He is doing a great job this year and I hope he does get offered a spot on the ASG roster (even though I don't mind our guys not going... I like the idea of them resting. Well except Biz who seems to be in Vegas any chance he gets ;).)
I am trying to decide what will happen Wednesday/Thursday. With back-to-back games do you play Smith since there is a nice break coming up soon? If you feel the need to rest Smith, you do it Wednesday night against the Ducks. But does LaBarbara really need to play? Do we really want him to play? I say play Smith Wed/Thurs and let him rest after Ottawa for a week. I think we can do ok with Smith playing all four up coming games before the break.
Time to go watch the BF play NHL 12. He has the Original Jets (Coyotes in the old uniform) playing the Thrashers or "new Jets". Uh yah, ok....
Obviously I did not take these pictures myself. They came from here.
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The Coyotes haven't been playing badly these last few games but for whatever reason they just couldn't get a lot of wins. Yesterday was a great game/effort by all Coyotes on the ice. I don't think there was one guy who wasn't playing balls to the wall. The entire Avalanche team appeared not to care. They had no jump, no energy and Varlamov seemed to just give up about half way through. Final: 6-1 Coyotes.
The worse thing about the game? The anthem singer. She has done games before but appears to have gotten worse. I'm not sure why a 14 year old (or so, maybe older?) would want to embarrass themselves like that. Was that too mean?
The best? My man Klesla got his second goal of the year! He is turning into a real renaissance man; he's good at defense, blocking shots and is now becoming a scoring machine! ;)
The next best? Brule. Wow. I wasn't expecting much from him but he really put everything out there. He had some of the best passes I have seen in awhile. And he was everywhere. He also wasn't taking shit from the Colorado players who seemed to be really into hooking (and cross checking). He also opened up the scoring with a rocket of a shot early in the first. I hope to see more of Brule and hope he can keep it up. If so, he will fit in pretty nicely here. It also doesn't hurt that he seems to have a bit of speed to him.
The star of the game though had to be the top of the faceoff circle in the north left. There must have been some divot in the ice because it was catching every one's skate. They'd be traveling full speed, hit that spot and one leg would stop and the player wouldn't and just fall down. It was becoming quite hilarious to watch.
Also, I still love Gordon. I told you before that he would be good on faceoffs and good guy to replace Fiddler here. Yesterday he showed he can also score a couple of goals now and then. He had two great goals. Both times he was fighting off Colorado players. His first goal probably would have been a penalty shot if it had not gone in. Colorado were all over him like white on rice alllllllll game but he just battled through him like it was nothing. Like they were some little gnat buzzing around. This was Gordon's first two goal game and he got his 100th point. Awesome!
Doan must think he got one hat trick and doesn't need anymore. He had another two goal game but when placed on the ice the last minute or so, with Gordon, he was more focused on trying to get his teammate his first hat trick. That is my Captain bitches. Love it.
Chris Summers also had a heck of a game with two assists (and his first NHL points) and was a +3. Not bad, not bad at all. DMo also played pretty well compared to his pre-benching play. He had an assist but was still a -1. He wasn't owning "new Jovo" chatter from me this game. I really want to see Boedker get some goals. I just feel he needs to. Smith had a great game too, making 38 saves. I don't need a shut out, I just need a win and that is what he gave us. The lady behind me was cracking me up. Every Time Smith left his net she'd be like, "get back in your frickin crease goalie". Every.Single.Time. And yes, she said frickin the entire time. I think they were Canadian because they were convinced the team was moving to Canada because Bettman ok'd 22 million in updates to their arena. Yes, because Bettman tells people when to update arenas. Otherwise no one can update an arena unless Bettman says so. Ugh. Make it stop please.
Too bad Chipchura couldn't have gotten a goal. I haven't seen a Gordie Howe hat trick in awhile. He had a good fight early one. And if I recall, that was really the Coyotes only penalty.
Overall, this was a great game for the Coyotes. Everyone was playing and the scoring was coming from everyone. This is what we need more of, not that I would mind if we got a consistent goal scorer. Don't get me wrong, I like Vrby but he has never been known for consistency. He scores in bunches. He just happens to be scoring more during his scoring streaks. He is doing a great job this year and I hope he does get offered a spot on the ASG roster (even though I don't mind our guys not going... I like the idea of them resting. Well except Biz who seems to be in Vegas any chance he gets ;).)
I am trying to decide what will happen Wednesday/Thursday. With back-to-back games do you play Smith since there is a nice break coming up soon? If you feel the need to rest Smith, you do it Wednesday night against the Ducks. But does LaBarbara really need to play? Do we really want him to play? I say play Smith Wed/Thurs and let him rest after Ottawa for a week. I think we can do ok with Smith playing all four up coming games before the break.
Time to go watch the BF play NHL 12. He has the Original Jets (Coyotes in the old uniform) playing the Thrashers or "new Jets". Uh yah, ok....
Obviously I did not take these pictures myself. They came from here.
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Well, we are kind of at the midpoint of the season and I have decided to reflect on the season so far. In looking back, I haven't written much this season, 13 posts if you start in September (pre-season).
Perhaps the biggest pre-season news was the acquisition of Mike Smith. Perhaps it was the Kyle Turris holdout. In the first scenario, we had to fill a void. In the later, we had to fill a much, much, much, much smaller void. Some will argue that Smith hasn't really filled that void. There are a few Smith-haters out there but you cannot deny that he has talent. I'm not going to say he's perfect but neither was Bryz. Remember all those soft goals? Remember the playoffs? Remember the Winter Classic & 24/7? Oh wait... that was Philly not here. But my point is, no goalie is perfect but Smith isn't the worse. Kyle Turris finally signed, did jack shit and then went to Ottawa where he has added to his career goal totals. He now has... 20. Wow. I'm gonna miss that offense.
There has been ups and downs since the start of the season. We aren't doing terrible but we aren't doing well either. The top story of this half of the season has been injuries. Currently Hanzal and Gordon are still out but we miss their face off skills. :( The streak when Smith was out was tough. LaBarbara tried to step up but he just proved he is a competant backup who can't play several games in a row. McElhinney played well in his one game, getting the Coyotes a win. I don't even think I can recall all the injuries to all the different players...
We definitely could use some more offense. But streaky Vrby has upped his output. He is now at 19 goals and we are only part way through the season. I would love to see more scoring from Doan, Pyatt and Boedker. They are all so close. They do a lot out there but just can't seem to get it going. Whitney is also having a pretty good scoring year so far with 14 goals and 21 assists. We just need to get the offense going on a regular basis.
The defence. Oi. It's been pretty bad. You know it's bad when DMo is getting scratched regularly. Yandle is having a slump year it seems. he's not horrible but he's not doing well. Klesla is trying to jump in more on the scoring. When he was out, our D suffered terrible. Our PK was just not good without him.
And the powerplay? Oh my god... will we ever have a decent powerplay? I have been a fan of the Coyotes since I moved here in 2006 and not once do I recall ever having a good powerplay. Every year I ask for one and every year the hockey gods say no. At least we aren't the last in the NHL, I believe we are in 28th. Out of 30. Ok, yah still pretty bad.
What would I like to see in the second half of the year?
Perhaps the biggest pre-season news was the acquisition of Mike Smith. Perhaps it was the Kyle Turris holdout. In the first scenario, we had to fill a void. In the later, we had to fill a much, much, much, much smaller void. Some will argue that Smith hasn't really filled that void. There are a few Smith-haters out there but you cannot deny that he has talent. I'm not going to say he's perfect but neither was Bryz. Remember all those soft goals? Remember the playoffs? Remember the Winter Classic & 24/7? Oh wait... that was Philly not here. But my point is, no goalie is perfect but Smith isn't the worse. Kyle Turris finally signed, did jack shit and then went to Ottawa where he has added to his career goal totals. He now has... 20. Wow. I'm gonna miss that offense.
There has been ups and downs since the start of the season. We aren't doing terrible but we aren't doing well either. The top story of this half of the season has been injuries. Currently Hanzal and Gordon are still out but we miss their face off skills. :( The streak when Smith was out was tough. LaBarbara tried to step up but he just proved he is a competant backup who can't play several games in a row. McElhinney played well in his one game, getting the Coyotes a win. I don't even think I can recall all the injuries to all the different players...
We definitely could use some more offense. But streaky Vrby has upped his output. He is now at 19 goals and we are only part way through the season. I would love to see more scoring from Doan, Pyatt and Boedker. They are all so close. They do a lot out there but just can't seem to get it going. Whitney is also having a pretty good scoring year so far with 14 goals and 21 assists. We just need to get the offense going on a regular basis.
The defence. Oi. It's been pretty bad. You know it's bad when DMo is getting scratched regularly. Yandle is having a slump year it seems. he's not horrible but he's not doing well. Klesla is trying to jump in more on the scoring. When he was out, our D suffered terrible. Our PK was just not good without him.
And the powerplay? Oh my god... will we ever have a decent powerplay? I have been a fan of the Coyotes since I moved here in 2006 and not once do I recall ever having a good powerplay. Every year I ask for one and every year the hockey gods say no. At least we aren't the last in the NHL, I believe we are in 28th. Out of 30. Ok, yah still pretty bad.
What would I like to see in the second half of the year?
- More physical play. When we play hard, we play better. I would like to see more guys lay out some hits, guys that aren't named Torres or Biz.
- More offense, more shooting. If you keep throwing the puck on/near the net, eventually it will go in. I promise. Unless the goalie has a force field in place.
- An improved powerplay. I am ok with all the passing on the powerplay. Let them get it set up. What I am not ok is always losing the puck or playing in the neutral (or your own) zone the entire time. Stay in the other teams zone, set it up and take shots when available.
- Less injuries. We need all guys 100% healthy.
- Play a full 60 minutes, never let up. Start off strong and end strong.
Look at that... we have made it to a new year. The Coyotes certainly ended the year with a bang. It was a well deserved and well needed win. There was a long over due PP goal from Langkow.
It seems Vrbata is back to the scoring part of his streakiness, which is good. We need him scoring. Both his goals came from weird angles. The first one was a surprise, like that really went in from there? And then he did it again. Keep it up Vrby.
Minnesota was awarded a penalty shot that should not have happened. There was a blatant high stick to a Coyote behind Minnesota's net. The player went down and the ref was standing there watching it all and didn't call it. The non-call led to Minnesota being able to break away causing Schlemko to get desperaate. Oh well... It didn't cause the game to be lost.
McElhinney stepped up and stopped everything after that. He did quite well this game. I was actually glad to see him start. LaBarbara needed a rest. He needs to clear his head.
My New Years Resolution is to write more on this blog. I hope to get more content up, at least something every few days if not more.
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It seems Vrbata is back to the scoring part of his streakiness, which is good. We need him scoring. Both his goals came from weird angles. The first one was a surprise, like that really went in from there? And then he did it again. Keep it up Vrby.
Minnesota was awarded a penalty shot that should not have happened. There was a blatant high stick to a Coyote behind Minnesota's net. The player went down and the ref was standing there watching it all and didn't call it. The non-call led to Minnesota being able to break away causing Schlemko to get desperaate. Oh well... It didn't cause the game to be lost.
McElhinney stepped up and stopped everything after that. He did quite well this game. I was actually glad to see him start. LaBarbara needed a rest. He needs to clear his head.
My New Years Resolution is to write more on this blog. I hope to get more content up, at least something every few days if not more.
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The night the Coyotes retired Keith "Walt" Tkachuk was bittersweet. There was a touching Ring of Honor ceremony, the cutest Coyote Santa hat giveaway but we lost. The pictures are a bit dark. I tried it without the flash (works best with eliminating glass reflection) but it was too low light in the arena. I had to turn the flash on to get less blurry images. Note to BF: I need a digital SLR. ;)
We upgraded for this game to make sure we had a good seats. Here is warmups from our seats. 8 seats from the glass.
Next up was a dear, heartwarming speach from Todd Walsh. He had me all choked up.
This is part of the video that played on the Jumbotron. It showed all his great milestones. It was very well done.
He had his wife and three children on the ice.
A moment from the ceremony...
Todd Walsh started off with a little joke (paraphrased) "If you got on the bus and the captain asked you what time the 12:30 bus left, you knew you were late". Apparently the old captain was a stickler about time and thus Mike Neeley presented him with a watch.
Next, GM Don Maloney presented him with a framed #7 jersey.
I just tried to zoom in on the jersey. It is a little grainy. I need the digital slr.
And finally the banner in the Ring of Honor was unveiled.
I love the Ring of Honor ceremonies. I was glad I decided to upgrade to the LL for this game. It was nice to have a great view. All I know is when Shane Doan is retired, I will bawl. I was almost crying for Walt and I was a Flyers fan when he was a Coyote but I could always appreciate a good hockey player. no comments
We upgraded for this game to make sure we had a good seats. Here is warmups from our seats. 8 seats from the glass.
Next up was a dear, heartwarming speach from Todd Walsh. He had me all choked up.
This is part of the video that played on the Jumbotron. It showed all his great milestones. It was very well done.
He had his wife and three children on the ice.
A moment from the ceremony...
Todd Walsh started off with a little joke (paraphrased) "If you got on the bus and the captain asked you what time the 12:30 bus left, you knew you were late". Apparently the old captain was a stickler about time and thus Mike Neeley presented him with a watch.
Next, GM Don Maloney presented him with a framed #7 jersey.
I just tried to zoom in on the jersey. It is a little grainy. I need the digital slr.
And finally the banner in the Ring of Honor was unveiled.
I love the Ring of Honor ceremonies. I was glad I decided to upgrade to the LL for this game. It was nice to have a great view. All I know is when Shane Doan is retired, I will bawl. I was almost crying for Walt and I was a Flyers fan when he was a Coyote but I could always appreciate a good hockey player. no comments
Now that was a good bounce back win! We were finally able to beat the Stars. Not only did we beat them but we did it in a regulation shutout. I am quite proud of the boys. After last nights loss there was no better team to do it against than the Stars, a team that has beat us the last two meetings. And by beat I mean we were ahead but let off and allowed them to tie and win in OT/shootout.
An oldie but I don't have any from this season. :(
It was nice to see Langkow back in the lineup. He has been missed. I do give credit to the organization for letting him take as mch time as he needed for the sudden loss of his mom. And boy did he have a great game! He had a two point game, assisting on the first and last goals.
Not only did Dallas arrive at 3 am but they suffered three injuries during the game: Lehtonen, Daley and Fiddler. The Coyotes took advantage and just kept attacking. The Coyotes kept traffic in front of the net with plenty of shots coming in from the blue line. They kept the pressure up for the full 60 minutes.
Of course the douchebag Ott tried to start something with Yandle. Yandle starting standing up for himself but luckily Pyatt steps in and helps him out. Yandle gets 2 minutes for roughing and Ott for cross checking. Ott also took a cross checking penalty with two minutes remaining. I'm sure that helped us make sure they didn't get any last second goals. ;)
Coyotes win this one 3-0. It looked almost effortless on their part. I hope we can keep this up. We have quite the roadtrip coming up. Tuesday we go into Chicago and Thursday its up to take on the Thrashers. We then return home and take on the Flyers on Saturday. I'd love to see four points on the road. If not we can lose to the Blackhawks in OT (need that one point) and beat the Thrashers in regulation.
And in conclusion, tonights Tysonism (patent pending):
Take a look here, it was rubbing him out.
I had to rewind the live feed to re-listen to that gem. no comments
An oldie but I don't have any from this season. :(
It was nice to see Langkow back in the lineup. He has been missed. I do give credit to the organization for letting him take as mch time as he needed for the sudden loss of his mom. And boy did he have a great game! He had a two point game, assisting on the first and last goals.
Not only did Dallas arrive at 3 am but they suffered three injuries during the game: Lehtonen, Daley and Fiddler. The Coyotes took advantage and just kept attacking. The Coyotes kept traffic in front of the net with plenty of shots coming in from the blue line. They kept the pressure up for the full 60 minutes.
Of course the douchebag Ott tried to start something with Yandle. Yandle starting standing up for himself but luckily Pyatt steps in and helps him out. Yandle gets 2 minutes for roughing and Ott for cross checking. Ott also took a cross checking penalty with two minutes remaining. I'm sure that helped us make sure they didn't get any last second goals. ;)
Coyotes win this one 3-0. It looked almost effortless on their part. I hope we can keep this up. We have quite the roadtrip coming up. Tuesday we go into Chicago and Thursday its up to take on the Thrashers. We then return home and take on the Flyers on Saturday. I'd love to see four points on the road. If not we can lose to the Blackhawks in OT (need that one point) and beat the Thrashers in regulation.
And in conclusion, tonights Tysonism (patent pending):
Take a look here, it was rubbing him out.
I had to rewind the live feed to re-listen to that gem. no comments
About a week or so ago (I am a bit behind) I came across a blog about how the Coyotes don’t need Paul Bissonnette anymore. I was curious about what it said so I read it. It was done by a Coyotes fan on a Coyotes blog and I will say I disagree with pretty much every point the author brought up. I know I am not alone because several people I know disagreed and the blog was mentioned by Puck Daddy on twitter with responses that seemed to disagree.
This topic has been talked to death but I feel the need to throw my two cents out, for what its worth. I know... not much. ;)
The issue is, do we need Biz? I say yes, for various reasons. He exudes a certain kind of charm. It is hard not to like the guy. At first I wasn’t sold on him but following him on twitter and listening to his interviews hooked me. This doesn’t even begin to touch the passion he shows on the ice for the game and his team. He might be a little different but its ok.
1. He puts himself out there. This is the real deal. He’s not being “safe” with his twitter or interviews. He tells you how he sees it. The Coyotes need a figurehead, someone fans and non-fans can connect with. Biz puts himself out there. He doesn’t just talk about hockey. His twitter feed is full of random comments and observations. He goes on KUPD and just talks with the guys, mostly about his ‘dating’ but it’s funny and anyone could listen and get what he is saying.
2. He doesn’t play a lot but when he does he gives the cliched 110%. Every second he is on the ice, he gives it his all. He does everything too. He goes in corners, he crashes the net, he hits, he fights but in a controlled manner (unlike a former Coyote who will remain nameless). There were quite a few goals last season that were a direct result of what Biz did on the ice, either for his linemates or the next line out. He may not get a lot of points but he does all the little things that matter.
3. He accepts his role and makes the best of it. Paul knows he’s not going to play every game. He knows he may have to stand up for a teammate. He knows he’s not going to be a scoring machine but he gets it. He doesn’t try to be something he’s not or demand more playing time or money. He makes jokes at his own expense but not in a self deprecating way. It is hard to put into words but its like this is what I do, might as well have a good time with it. That acceptance and good nature makes him great at what he does and shows the fans his passion, for the game and for life.
Those three points are why I think Biz needs to stay here. But the other idea the author mentioned was that instead of Biz we should be playing Miele. I take big issue with this idea. Does he not remember Kyle Turris? We have no need to rush Miele.
Andy Miele is doing amazing in Portland. He had a call up and did pretty well. He showed he will make it to the NHL someday but he definitely needs some more experience. Let’s just let Andy get some more time in the AHL and call him up for some games here and there. Let him get a taste and figure out where his game needs to improve.
Biz and Miele are two completely different players. Let’s say that the author of the do we need blog gets his wish. Biz leaves and Miele gets called up. I wouldn’t put Andy on the 4th line. He needs some linemates with a little speed and skill to help him reach his full potential. He is not a 4th liner; he is not a grinder. Having Andy on the 4th line would be a waste. Trading Biz and bringing up Miele would mean changing the lines but how would those lines look? Who would be patrolling for Miele? Who would we send out during those games in which we face a Parros?
Biz may not be a Sidney Crosby but he is every bit as vital to his team for different reasons. Phoenix needs Biz. We need his personality promoting hockey. We need his effort on the ice. We need his toughness. We need him in the corners and tweeting his thoughts. What Biz does for the team may not be obvious to a casual fan but if you really watch him, he can and does make a difference in games.
Turns out I have a very limited Biz picture collection. These are all warmup pics from a few seasons ago. I haven't taken many pictures this season. I do plan on taking more. I need to get back into the swing of things!
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This topic has been talked to death but I feel the need to throw my two cents out, for what its worth. I know... not much. ;)
The issue is, do we need Biz? I say yes, for various reasons. He exudes a certain kind of charm. It is hard not to like the guy. At first I wasn’t sold on him but following him on twitter and listening to his interviews hooked me. This doesn’t even begin to touch the passion he shows on the ice for the game and his team. He might be a little different but its ok.
1. He puts himself out there. This is the real deal. He’s not being “safe” with his twitter or interviews. He tells you how he sees it. The Coyotes need a figurehead, someone fans and non-fans can connect with. Biz puts himself out there. He doesn’t just talk about hockey. His twitter feed is full of random comments and observations. He goes on KUPD and just talks with the guys, mostly about his ‘dating’ but it’s funny and anyone could listen and get what he is saying.
2. He doesn’t play a lot but when he does he gives the cliched 110%. Every second he is on the ice, he gives it his all. He does everything too. He goes in corners, he crashes the net, he hits, he fights but in a controlled manner (unlike a former Coyote who will remain nameless). There were quite a few goals last season that were a direct result of what Biz did on the ice, either for his linemates or the next line out. He may not get a lot of points but he does all the little things that matter.
3. He accepts his role and makes the best of it. Paul knows he’s not going to play every game. He knows he may have to stand up for a teammate. He knows he’s not going to be a scoring machine but he gets it. He doesn’t try to be something he’s not or demand more playing time or money. He makes jokes at his own expense but not in a self deprecating way. It is hard to put into words but its like this is what I do, might as well have a good time with it. That acceptance and good nature makes him great at what he does and shows the fans his passion, for the game and for life.
Those three points are why I think Biz needs to stay here. But the other idea the author mentioned was that instead of Biz we should be playing Miele. I take big issue with this idea. Does he not remember Kyle Turris? We have no need to rush Miele.
Andy Miele is doing amazing in Portland. He had a call up and did pretty well. He showed he will make it to the NHL someday but he definitely needs some more experience. Let’s just let Andy get some more time in the AHL and call him up for some games here and there. Let him get a taste and figure out where his game needs to improve.
Biz and Miele are two completely different players. Let’s say that the author of the do we need blog gets his wish. Biz leaves and Miele gets called up. I wouldn’t put Andy on the 4th line. He needs some linemates with a little speed and skill to help him reach his full potential. He is not a 4th liner; he is not a grinder. Having Andy on the 4th line would be a waste. Trading Biz and bringing up Miele would mean changing the lines but how would those lines look? Who would be patrolling for Miele? Who would we send out during those games in which we face a Parros?
Biz may not be a Sidney Crosby but he is every bit as vital to his team for different reasons. Phoenix needs Biz. We need his personality promoting hockey. We need his effort on the ice. We need his toughness. We need him in the corners and tweeting his thoughts. What Biz does for the team may not be obvious to a casual fan but if you really watch him, he can and does make a difference in games.
Turns out I have a very limited Biz picture collection. These are all warmup pics from a few seasons ago. I haven't taken many pictures this season. I do plan on taking more. I need to get back into the swing of things!
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Wowzers... how did we go from having the best game of the season to the worse in the span of about 48 hours? Was it the turkey? The stuffing? The Ray-Ray cabbage rolls? I mean... who eats cabbage rolls on Turkey day?!?
I'm pretty sure we had no defense men on the ice last night. Pretty much all the Canucks goals were a result of defensemen break downs. Smith was working his ass off but his dmen were not that helpful.
The best part of the game was the guy in our section that yelled out "We want Turris" during the PP. LMAO. Yes because his 19 goals over the past 3 seasons is really going to get our offense going. Yes, he is going to ROCK the PP. Kyle Turris still has a lot to prove.. he is not the answer at this point dude.
Also, I loved the old, fat Winnipegger behind me at warmups... "Are you guys going to sit down?" Me: No, we are watching warmups. Turn back around & do my best to block his view even more. If you want to see either stand up (like everyone else watching warmups) or move to where you can see. Nothing bothers me more than people telling me to sit down at games when everyone else is standing. Stop being lazy!
I also enjoyed the Swede (thats what it sounded she was speaking) behind me who started throwing her popcorn when the Canucks won. She is lucky that was just popcorn. If she had showered me in anything else, her ass would be severely kicked. Who does that?
Overall that was a sad game to watch. I pretty much started reading twitter in the third. They guys weren't putting in much effort, why should I? I am hoping tonight is better. Tonight may be even more important of a game. Each time we have played the Stars this season it seems we give up a goal in the last two minutes to tie it. We cannot give them a point tonight!
Let's Go Yotes! no comments
I'm pretty sure we had no defense men on the ice last night. Pretty much all the Canucks goals were a result of defensemen break downs. Smith was working his ass off but his dmen were not that helpful.
The best part of the game was the guy in our section that yelled out "We want Turris" during the PP. LMAO. Yes because his 19 goals over the past 3 seasons is really going to get our offense going. Yes, he is going to ROCK the PP. Kyle Turris still has a lot to prove.. he is not the answer at this point dude.
Also, I loved the old, fat Winnipegger behind me at warmups... "Are you guys going to sit down?" Me: No, we are watching warmups. Turn back around & do my best to block his view even more. If you want to see either stand up (like everyone else watching warmups) or move to where you can see. Nothing bothers me more than people telling me to sit down at games when everyone else is standing. Stop being lazy!
I also enjoyed the Swede (thats what it sounded she was speaking) behind me who started throwing her popcorn when the Canucks won. She is lucky that was just popcorn. If she had showered me in anything else, her ass would be severely kicked. Who does that?
Overall that was a sad game to watch. I pretty much started reading twitter in the third. They guys weren't putting in much effort, why should I? I am hoping tonight is better. Tonight may be even more important of a game. Each time we have played the Stars this season it seems we give up a goal in the last two minutes to tie it. We cannot give them a point tonight!
Let's Go Yotes! no comments
Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful that I was able to see last nights game against the Ducks. It was one great game. It was probably one of the best games I have seen so far this year. They played a complete 60 minutes, well more like 57 but close enough. ;) They passed well, forechecked, got in front of the net, scored on the PP, actually set it up on the PP etc etc etc. It was a well rounded, well played games.
Vrby is on one of his hot streaks. He had two goals last night and whenever he was on the ice in the third it was get Vrbata the goal time. He wasn't so much concerned with the hat trick. You could tell he was just looking for the best play. He would shoot when he had an opening and pass when he didn't. I hate watching the team trying to force a hat trick; you need to let that develop naturally. Stop trying so hard.
The best part might have been Getlaf's mini-melt down and 10 minute misconduct. Both times he had a penalty, he ran his mouth. I guess the ref had enough the second time and he went bye-bye to a loud, cheering crowd. I can't stand that guy and not in like a if he was on my team, I'd like him, I just hate playing him way.
Klesla had a few good hits. There was a nice one on Perry into his bench. It was well deserved.
Mike Smith again played out of his mind. He is looking like a man possessed. I am hearing a lot of praise being heaped on him. Seems to be a lot of people that were saying signing him was a mistake are now singing his praises. It's no longer all his fault. ;)
Tomorrow the Canucks are in town. It would be nice to see the Coyotes build off the great roadtrip and win against the Ducks to get another win. Although I would prefer we beat the Stars, in regulation, on Saturday night. We have this tendency to be winning and let them score in the final minute and then win in a shootout. ARGH! I will be at both games. What a great week!
In other news, Kyle Turris has finally stopped being a brat and signed a 2 year contract. He is in Phoenix and skating so we will see what happens to him. I hope he starts out in Portland and I hope he does well. But... I won't forget how he acted, no matter how well he plays. I will want him to do well for the team but I will no longer cheer for or respect him.
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I am thankful that I was able to see last nights game against the Ducks. It was one great game. It was probably one of the best games I have seen so far this year. They played a complete 60 minutes, well more like 57 but close enough. ;) They passed well, forechecked, got in front of the net, scored on the PP, actually set it up on the PP etc etc etc. It was a well rounded, well played games.
Vrby is on one of his hot streaks. He had two goals last night and whenever he was on the ice in the third it was get Vrbata the goal time. He wasn't so much concerned with the hat trick. You could tell he was just looking for the best play. He would shoot when he had an opening and pass when he didn't. I hate watching the team trying to force a hat trick; you need to let that develop naturally. Stop trying so hard.
The best part might have been Getlaf's mini-melt down and 10 minute misconduct. Both times he had a penalty, he ran his mouth. I guess the ref had enough the second time and he went bye-bye to a loud, cheering crowd. I can't stand that guy and not in like a if he was on my team, I'd like him, I just hate playing him way.
Klesla had a few good hits. There was a nice one on Perry into his bench. It was well deserved.
Mike Smith again played out of his mind. He is looking like a man possessed. I am hearing a lot of praise being heaped on him. Seems to be a lot of people that were saying signing him was a mistake are now singing his praises. It's no longer all his fault. ;)
Tomorrow the Canucks are in town. It would be nice to see the Coyotes build off the great roadtrip and win against the Ducks to get another win. Although I would prefer we beat the Stars, in regulation, on Saturday night. We have this tendency to be winning and let them score in the final minute and then win in a shootout. ARGH! I will be at both games. What a great week!
In other news, Kyle Turris has finally stopped being a brat and signed a 2 year contract. He is in Phoenix and skating so we will see what happens to him. I hope he starts out in Portland and I hope he does well. But... I won't forget how he acted, no matter how well he plays. I will want him to do well for the team but I will no longer cheer for or respect him.
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