Game 7: Penguins 2 Red Wings 1

Thanks Red Wings for a great season. It is clear to me after 7 games how evenly matched these two teams were, and someone had to win. It was Pittsburgh. In this game, they were slightly hungrier, determined, healthy; and Fleury made some big saves in the 3rd. How will Detroit fans handle this humbling loss? I honestly thought I would be livid and furious if they lost tonight, but I've learned that several Stanley Cup celebrations and many Bells Oberon beers are a great combo to appreciating a good game. Now we look forward to next season. The young guys on the Wings who got to experience this run will be hungry next year, and should contribute to another playoff-ready team.

The NHL scored big on this series in my opinion. Now, anytime the Wings and Pens play in the next few years, it will be a highly-watched, media-savvy game, which the NHL needs. How about three years in a row in the finals? We'll see you next year?

Game 7: 2nd Period

Well.......

Pittsburgh looks better and is playing better. That sucks that the play that resulted in the first goal should have been icing against the Pens, but you can't argue the fact that the Pens are ALL OVER the Wings. There have been countless times where the Pens have caused offsides and turnovers by the Wings. In one sense, this game is similar to last year's game 5 where we were down heading into the third and rallied back, but is Pittsburgh really gonna let them back in at the Joe again? That's about all I'm holding onto. Luckily for me and my neighbors, I'm not as fired up about this as I thought I would be. It's basically because of how clear the Wings look outmatched at this point. One more period to go?

Game 7: 1st Period

We started to gain momentum on Pittsburgh until that penalty on Brad Stuart. What a stress-filled penalty kill that was. There were three different times when I expected to see the puck in the back of the net. We did have a couple of nice chances on our shots as well. We gotta come out flying in the second.

GAME 7

All season long I have made casual mentions about how spoiled we as Wings fans are, and, no matter what happens in this series, we should be satisfied that we got to see another great run.

Then this whole Game 7 thing happened.

And now I realize that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch your team hoist the cup at home in a do or die match in which a loss would mean watching someone else hoist the cup in your home.

And I don't think I'd care for that too much.

So to do my part in aiding the Wings, I'm staying home tonight. The last 5 times I have been at the bar to watch a game during these playoffs were all Wings losses. The only win was the insane 6-5 victory over Columbus in which the Wings didn't play too well.

2 days of buildup is enough. I have many beers (thanks to my lovely lady), chips and pizza and a knot in my stomach.

This is going to be one memorable night, albeit good or bad.


GO WINGS!!!!

Game 6: Penguins 2 Red Wings 1

What a nail-biter in the 3rd period. Until the 3rd, Pittsburgh was by far the superior team from the moment the puck dropped. Both of these teams have done a good job of feeding off being at home, and now the pressure is on the Wings to put it away on home ice Friday night.

That's what I'm worried about...

Are the Wings really going to come out and play like they did in Game 5 again? I'm expecting a much more confident Pittsburgh bunch, similar to the Pens we saw in Game 1 and 2. I expect Osgood to be there with big saves, but the Wings need to control the pace from the puck drop and make sure that Pittsburgh doesn't get too confident too early. This has been a great series to watch in my opinion. If you're a fan that still doesn't understand how the NHL works now, and that officials make inconsistent calls game after game, then this has been a very frustrating series to watch for you.

I'm expecting a 3-1 or 4-2ish game. And I plan on watching this one at home because the Wings have lost their last 4 playoff games that I watched out that the bar. In fact, the only win I didn't watch at home was that crazy ass 6-5 game against Columbus. It is clear that I am the sole deciding factor after all.

Game 5: Red Wings 5 Penguins 0

What can I say? The Red Wings are a completely different team with Pavel Datsyuk in the lineup...even at 80-90%, he was a huge impact. In the first three minutes, the Pens seemed to be all over the Wings. Then Datsyuk made a huge hit on someone (I forgot who), the crowd erupted, and it seemed to turn the whole game around. Marian Hossa just can't buy a goal. He was all over the net and had a lot of good chances that either went off the post or into Fleury's glove. Crosby and Malkin were AWFUL in this game. They both looked undisciplined, shut down, and took a lot of silly penalties. I still think Pittsburgh is going to be a completely different team in Mellon Arena. I'm predicting overtime in this one.

Game 4: Penguins 4 Red Wings 2

The Wings did a lot of good things in this game, but the mistakes they did make were the worst possible ones at the worst possible times. You just can't do that against a hungry team like Pittsburgh; and on the road. Pittsburgh shot themselves in the foot in 1 and 2, Osgood was better, and the Wings won both games. Detroit did similar in 3 and 4, Fleury was better, and the Pens won both games. Now we're setup for what I think is going to be a series for the ages.

Game 3: Penguins 4 Red Wings 2

The gameplay was excellent in this one. It's been a little bizarre how, in all three games, the team that looked the best on the ice lost. There's been a lot of buzz about the officiating in this series, but it hasn't bothered me at all. Not even the fact that the Pens scored on the powerplay late in the third. The way I see it is you're going to be shorthanded some time or another, so kill the penalties. The Wings didn't. The NHL has created this atmosphere of fans bitching about calls and non-calls every game because of their ridiculous tightening of the rules over the years, and now that they're letting them play everyone is noticing everything that's been missed.

I was stunned how well the Wings responded to the first goal, and how well they played in the second. Fleury made some big saves this time and set up his team for success in the third. Game 4 is gonna be a great one. Hopefully Datsyuk will be back to add to the defense. Hopefully people don't freak out too much if the Pens tie the series (yeah right).

Notice I didn't mention the too many men non call (until now)? It didn't have a huge impact on the outcome of the game!

Game 2: Red Wings 3 Penguins 1

LOL! The game of hockey amuses me sometimes, especially when they decide to have back to back games in a hard-played Stanley Cup Final series. It was a completely different type of game than last night, and the Wings looked absolutely gassed in the second half of each period.

BUT THEY WON THE GAME!

There is no doubt in my mind that anyone pulling for the Pens is about to slit their wrists right now, as they've watched their team play 120 minutes of good hockey against the Wings and lose. It definitely doesn't help that when the Pens do get chances, they get robbed by Ozzie or misfire. But it's not an excuse for Pittsburgh.

Don't tell that to NBC though......they did nothing but make excuses about goal posts and officiating for the Pens. I remember in Game 5 against the Ducks, the Wings hit 4 goal-posts on great chances. And what did they do? They ended up scoring 3 goals and won the game. That's what great teams do, they win the game. Where is Pittsburgh's depth while Guerin and Crosby are failing to capitalize on opportunities? They don't have a Justin Abdelkader apparently.

The refs were letting each team get away with pretty much everything, and it's been great to watch. The only reason we're talking about the Hossa non-call is because the Wings actually capitalized on their chance following a non-call. Unfortunately, NHL refs have been calling so much this year, that every non-call is being looked at in this series since, all of a sudden, the refs are keeping the whistles in their pockets.

Game 3 is going to be difficult for the Wings. I can't fathom the Wings going up 3-0 in this series, and there is no way Pittsburgh is not going to be fired up for this one. Then again, who knows the way these playoffs are going. It's been great!

Game 1: Red Wings 3 Penguins 1

Well, I'm definitely pumped that we were able to take Game 1 of the series, but I'm a little skeptical as to how Game 2 is gonna go. Ozzie was brilliant, but he had to be a little too brilliant at times. Pittsburgh looked like they were taking it to the Wings for a great deal of the second period.

I don't buy the "bounce of the boards being lucky" business, however. Everyone knows that the Joe has some active boards, and Fleury was way to slow to react on the first two goals. He definitely got outplayed by Ozzie tonight. Pittsburgh let that first goal happen by failing to clear the puck out of the zone twice in a few seconds, then the Wings capitalized.

How about Abdelkader stepping up and making a big play in the third! The depth continues to amaze me. It will have to keep shining if we are going to let Pittsburgh get 30 shots on us. We'll see how tomorrow goes on a back to back night. Should be interesting.

STANLEY CUP FINAL THOUGHTS

And it's time for you to prove why you used it wisely, Hossa. With #13 banged up and #96 not contributing offensively as usual, this is your time. You showed life in the second half of the Chicago series, and I'm expecting 3+ goals from you in this series. Make it happen!

As for the matchup, I think it's going to be a great series. The Wings and Pens looked very evenly matched last year from Game 3 on, as the Pens were a little star struck and inexperienced to start the series at the Joe.

I expect the teams to be tied 1-1 going into Pittsburgh after Sunday (SHAME ON THE NHL FOR HAVING BACK TO BACK GAMES TO START THE SERIES BY THE WAY). It sounds like #5 and #52 will be in for the Wings in Game 1 and Datsyuk is a game time decision.

So you have the Wings, whose depth is showing to be the best in recent playoff history against the Pens, who are relying primarily on #71 and #87 to put the puck in the net for them. If, all other things remaining the same, the Pens' depth steps up, they win the series. If, all other things remaining the same, #81 #13 put the puck in the net, the Wings win the series.

Prediction: Someone in 7



Oh, I meant the Wings. Home ice matters!

Game 5: Red Wings 2 Blackhawks 1 (OT)

Just like in 1995, we oust the Blackhawks in OT in Game 5! Our depth showed its skill even more tonight, with Ericsson's name being added to the many who were unable to play. If Cleary keeps it up and the Wings end up winning the cup, #11's name could be in the running for the Conn Smythe (getting a bit ahead of myself here). Osgood and Huet both played outstanding in this game. In fact, Ozzie was a huge difference in the first half of the game. So here we are, back in the finals again. I wonder how many of our players are going to be back by Saturday's Game 1 and how that is going to affect the continuity of the team. You have the Wings, who's depth has carried them through the playoffs agains the Pens, who's star players are carrying them without much help from the 3rd and 4th liners. It's gonna be a dandy.

Game 4: Red Wings 6 Blackhawks 1

The Blackhawks absolutely embarrassed themselves in this game from the moment the puck dropped. I have never seen a team so distracted by sending a message as opposed to focusing on winning a crucial Stanley Cup playoff game. It was hilarious, especially considering we were without Datsyuk and Lidstrom. Hossa finally reminds us that the Wings signed him last summer; let's hope he keeps going with that. Not to get too ahead of myself here, but it's getting really close to a Red Wings/Penguins rematch. That would be just amazing to watch. Finish it up on Wednesday, guys.

Game 3: Blackhawks 4 Red Wings 3 (OT)

That's I'll I have to say about that game

A Little Behind

Need to catch up on the blogging here. Away from my computer for the weekend.

Game 2: Red Wings 3 Blackhawks 2 (OT)

WHAT A GREAT GAME!

If i was a Blackhawks fan I'd be pretty pissed right now. Ozzie kept the Wings in the game in the 1st period and Brian Campbell just keeps handing the puck to the Wings. Also, it's time to show appreciation for and officially end all ripping on Mikael Samuelsson by me. He is one of the main reasons (along with Cleary, Flip, Ozzie and Franzen) that the Wings are still playing right now. If 1 of those 4 players doesn't show up in Pavel and Hossa's absence, we might be watching the Ducks/Hawks or at least be in a 1-1 or 0-2 series right now.

On to Chicago. It's gonna be a riot....

Game 1: Red Wings 5 Blackhawks 2

Wow, what great end to end action in this game! This is going to be a good series if the Hawks end up winning one of the next two. Khabibulin was on fire until the Wings broke him down in the 3rd, and Ozzie continues to play phenomenal. Chicago had a lot of good chances that they could have easily scored on in this game, so we shouldn't chalk up a series victory just yet.

I was very impressed with Cleary, Helm, Samuelsson and Flip yesterday. They are continuing to shine in the offensive absence of Datsyuk and Hossa. Pavel played a strong defensive game, so I'm good with that (even though he is going to have to score eventually!). Something seems terribly wrong with Hossa though. Can't wait for Game 2!

THE BLACKHAWKS

BRING 'EM ON!!!

WINGS IN 6

Game 7: Red Wings 4 Ducks 3

A little late on this post (been busy), but WHAT A MEMORABLE GAME AND VICTORY!!!!!! If I remember correctly, we were on the wrong end of the last few game 7s at home when we did not shut out the opponent (San Jose and Toronto...yes I still remember those clearly). This game was very frustrating to watch until the end, as the Ducks got a break from a loose stick and another goal after an awful penalty call (Pronger pushes Hudler in the net and Hudler gets interference?). But, as Babcock said, the "Hockey Gods" were on our side. It's great to move on and not get eliminated by the Ducks again.

What really speaks to the Wings' depth is that they got through this stuff series with dismal performances from Hossa and Datsyuk, two of their best players! They won't be able to get away with this again, so 81 and 13 better show up in the Western Finals.

Game 6: Ducks 2 Red Wings 1

MISSING


Anyone else care to show up alongside Franzen? Where is the HART TROPHY CANDIDATE Pavel Datsyuk? Anyway, the Wings are in full control of whether or not they come out of this series on top. If they convert on their chances, come to play from the get go, and their best players (Datsyuk?) show up, then expect a win on Thursday. Otherwise, this will be a tough one to swallow.

Game 5: Red Wings 4 Ducks 1

Despite the fact that the Wings dominated this game, the Ducks were one chance away from tying the game, and perhaps changing the series. And, on that note, hats off to Ozzie for making that HUGE SAVE in the second period on Christensen! The Wings took the Ducks completely out of their game from the puck drop, and if they would have converted on all of those posts, the score would have been even more lopsided. It will be interesting to see how the Ducks respond at home after being worked the last two games. The Wings ARE overdue for a seven game series. Let's avoid that and wrap it up on the road AGAIN!

Game 4: Red Wings 6 Ducks 3

Way to step it up boys! Now the momentum and home ice (for whatever it's worth) are back in our hands. Still waiting for Pavel to arrive to the series offensively, but he had a strong game yesterday. Is Getzlaf injured? Flip bumped his knee and then he had only 3 minutes of ice time in the 3rd period. Anyway, not only do I feel real good about the win, but about the fact that they forced Hiller out of the game and know could be in his head.

Game 3: Ducks 2 Red Wings 1

While everyone will be talking about the whistle at the end of the period (which was AWFUL), it still needs to be realized that if the Wings CAME TO PLAY IN THE FIRST PERIOD, which has been the problem ALL YEAR, the whistle at the end of the game would not have mattered. That being said, I think if they play like they did in the 2nd and 3rd for the rest of the series, pucks will start going into the net. In the 1st period, the Ducks were tougher and more alert, and the Wings were playing like their skill was going to win them the game. Unfortunately you need grit and hustle to go with that skill. How about 60 minutes of that on Thursday?

#81 and #13

We need you to step up your game tonight and get some points. Make it happen!

Game 2: Ducks 4 Red Wings 3 (3OT)

Jonas Hiller is proving to be quite a piece of work. It was tough to lose that one after watching the Wings control the pace from midway through the 1st until the end of the game. Solid game from Osgood, but he made one less huge save than Hiller did. I think the Wings need to be ready to weather a 1st period storm on Tuesday. The Ducks play with so much more energy at home than we saw in the first 2 games. It's gonna be fun to watch.

Correction

I just watched that hit in slow motion. Forget what I said in the last post. Suspend his ass.

Game 1: Red Wings 3 Ducks 2

CRASH THE NET!!!

Great game tonight. This is definitely going to be a good series. As for the hit on Hudler, I have mixed feelings. I really don't think there was intent to injure on the play. Maybe a double minor for charging might have been the best call. More importantly, Nick Lidstrom is the man. What great patience waiting for Hiller to make the first move on his second goal, and a great play by Zetterberg to gain entry into the zone to set it up.

Rafalski Out Tonight

and Chelios is in....great.....

2nd Round

I'm very pumped for the next round of the playoffs. I don't think we could have asked for a better variety of series.

DETROIT vs ANAHEIM
We all know that the Ducks are not your average 8 seed. This features the only team the Wings have had consistent problems with in the playoffs this decade. It is also a matchup of the last two Stanley Cup champs. It's gonna be nerve-wrecking.

CHICAGO vs VANCOUVER
Neither of these teams has been to the conference final in many years, and one will be when this series is over. Each team features many 3rd and 4th line no-namers that will be looking to make a name for themselves over the next few weeks.

BOSTON vs CAROLINA
Boston will now have to prove to the NHL that they were a valid conference champion against a team that has a decent amount of players with Stanley Cup rings. Eric Staal has been on a tear, is one of the top 10 players in the league, and no one knows who he is because of the team he is on.

PITTSBURGH vs WASHINGTON
The series that the media, and many fans wanted to see. This will be a fast-skating series. Will VARLAMOV really compete with Marc-Andre Fleury? I personally want the Caps the win just so OV can piss off Don Cherry once more.

ROUND 2: Wings vs Ducks

This is going to be some series. The team that many Wings fans didn't want to play in the first round will now lock horns with the Wings in the second round. I watched a majority of the 6th game against San Jose, and I think that it's going to come down to how disciplined the Wings play. Anaheim was going after San Jose with tons of hits, and the Sharks would get in trouble with after the whistle penalties. Anaheim would then capitalize on the powerplay. The Red Wings are going to need to have a strong 1st period of game 1. Hopefully, they realize that the Ducks ARE NOT the Blue Jackets and have players that know what it takes to go all the way. If Holmstrom and Franzen can rile up Hiller a bit, I think the Wings can take this series. JUST STAY OUT OF THE PENALTY BOX!

Game 4: Red Wings 6 Blue Jackets 5

What a crazy-ass finish to a one-sided series. As I expected, the Jackets came out gambling, which created more chances for them. But it also created more opportunities for the Wings as well, and they capitalized more than Columbus did. Marian Hossa was the difference...his two goals were at a HUGE time. As for the penalty call at the end of the game, I'd probably be bitching up a storm as well if it happened to the Wings. However, I'd also be over it the next day and realize it was the right call on a stupid mistake.

So it's Anaheim or Vancouver next. We either get to deal with the Ducks, who have a red hot Jonas Hiller and players with Stanley Cup rings; or Vancouver, who is hungry to succeed with a very talented Robert Luongo. I have a feeling this might be a little tougher than Columbus......

Game 3: Red Wings 4 Blue Jackets 1

Nothing like shutting up a loud crowd one minute into the game. Way to go, Homer! For the third straight game, Ozzie turned away some nice 1st period chances by the Blue Jackets. Columbus will probably taking a lot of chances in game 4 with a nothing to lose attitude. Hopefully the Wings will be ready and adjust.

Game 2: Red Wings 4 Blue Jackets 0

More of the same from Datsyuk today. He has been a treat to watch. And if anyone (including myself) plans on doubting Osgood anymore, that's been put to bed in these first two games so hats off to him for showing us all again why he's the best goaltender in recent Wings history.

Anyway, I'm happy about the Wings "holding serve" in the first two games at home, but we all know how things have gone in the first round in recent years after the Wings go up 2-0 at home. Without the power play opportunities, the Wings and Jackets have been almost dead even in my opinion. The only difference is the Wings have been more disciplined on 5 on 5, thus drawing more penalties. The Jackets are going to be hungry at home and will be feeding off their crowd, so the Wings need to step it up on the road and make sure they don't come back home in an even series.

Game 1: Red Wings 4 Blue Jackets 1

The one thing I took away from this game the most was GREAT PHYSICAL PLAY. Pavel Datsyuk was A BEAST. I've never seen him play so tough before in his career! The officiating in the first period was awful, but I didn't think it benefited either team any more than the other. I was more pissed that it was killing the flow of the game early.

What was key was great penalty killing and GREAT GOALTENDING BY OSGOOD. He is the main reason the Wings got out of that first period unscathed. After that, the Wings clearly had the upper hand over the Blue Jackets. They were able to maintain presence in front of Mason, forcing the Jackets to get in his way as well and letting the Wings capitalize on the traffic in front. So, one game is in the books and the good guys win.......but expect Columbus to be even tougher in Saturday.

What a great crowd tonight as well! The Joe has a reputation for being a little dull in the first round of the playoffs, but there was a noticeable difference this time around.

WINGS/JACKETS

It's that time of the year! I'm pretty excited for this series for a few reasons.

1) A chance to build a division rivalry with this team (the only team we really don't have a rivalry with right now)
2) Low travel
3) I like to see different opponents in the playoffs. For instance, it was kind of a drag when the Wings were playing the Blues and Ducks EVERY year

That being said, this is going to be a tough series. The Wings are kind of stumbling into the playoffs (like they did in 2002) and all eyes are on Chris Osgood as if he is the sole determiner as to the outcome of this series (which I don't agree with after watching the last few games of lackluster skating and giveaways in our own zone). No one knows what Steve Mason or Rick Nash are capable of in the postseason because they just haven't been there, either.

So now we find out if the Wings have really been holding back all season and truly have been playing "bored," as some Detroit sports writers have speculated. If this is really the case, then I am going to be an optimist for once and pick the Wings to win this series.

WINGS in 6 (It's our favorite first-round series length)

Losses to CHI and NSH

I'm tired of watching meaningless regular season games in which the wings play 2/3 of the game and blow it in the end. I'm just ready for some playoff hockey to find whether or not the team is for real. As of now, it's down to Columbus or Anaheim for the first round opponent. I really think the series will be tough regardless of who we play, but I prefer Columbus so I can watch the Ducks and Sharks beat the hell out of each other in a playoff series. Beat Colorado tomorrow, St. Louis, and make this happen!

Absurd.............

Amazing..............

Red Wings 4 Sabres 1

Haven't got to say this much in 08-09: Osgood was outstanding tonight! The Wings still could have played better defensively, but it was nice to see goaltending be the deciding factor for the Wings (in a positive manner, that is).

Playoff Opponent?

It looks like it's down to Anaheim, Nashville, St. Louis or Columbus. I'll take any division opponent for two reasons. First, the obvious one of travel. Second, I don't think any team wants to play the Ducks in the first round right now. They have been playing very well of late and have a lot of players on their team that know what it's like to make a Stanley Cup run. Let's avoid that for one round.

Red Wings 3 Wild 2

A much more hungry and complete effort tonight that only looked close because of Backstrom. Welcome back to the scoresheet, Hossa! They needed a win to close out this tough homestand. Tomorrow night is going to be a tough game in Buffalo against a team that virtually needs a win to keep playoff hopes alive. After that, it's a similar game against the Preds then a home and home with the Blackhawks. Playoff instensity is in full force. Let's GO!

Blues 5 Red Wings 4

So it looks like the Wings are going to be the #2 seed, thanks to another hapless defensive effort and ANOTHER terrible first period. Who is responsible on this team for preparing for the next opponent? How many more games are the Wings going to skate around like a bunch of 45-year olds for the first 20 minutes? They knew they were going to face a well-rested team who is gunning for a playoff spot and still didn't come out ready. I don't get it.

Predators 4 Red Wings 3

TIME TO RETIRE
What leadership did the veteran Chris Chelios provide today? He showed his teammates how to come to play by taking a stupid penalty early in the 1st period (a period that the Wings have been struggling in), then followed up by taking a penalty with 5 minutes to go in a tie game, leading to Nashville's go-ahead goal.

GET OFF THE FUCKING ICE AND HANG UP YOUR SKATES!!!!!
I hate hockey this week...................

Islanders 2 Red Wings 0

This loss not as much of a big deal to me. The Wings did start off a little sluggish, but Joey MacDonald was an absolute beast in net. If it was a playoff game, I'd probably be pissed and try to find reasons to blame Samuelsson and Lilja, however.

AIR FORCE 2 Michigan 0

It's so frustrating being a college hockey fan, mostly because of the nature of the season. You follow your team for several months, and if they have a good regular season it's tough because in the NCAA tournament, one game can ruin a whole season.

Such was the case with Michigan this season, as AGAIN they were eliminated in the Frozen Fo.....wait a minute....it wasn't the frozen four this year. IT WAS TO AIR FORCE IN THE FIRST ROUND!

Despite outshooting the highly-touted and prestigious Falcons 43-13, Michigan has wasted ANOTHER great year and, like all other major Michigan sports, proved they are nothing more than a name with no credentials to support being called anything more than mid-major (kind of like Duke basketball?). Thanks again for wasting my time this year and I'll be looking forward to posting something like this next year as well.

Red Wings 3 Oilers 2

Nice job controlling the pace for most of the game. Ericsson is doing a great job of showing what he can do in the second half of the season, and he is likely solidifying a spot in the lineup next year for himself if he keeps it up.

Flames 5 Red Wings 3

Figures that the Wings follow up my confidence posting with a defensive and goaltending performance like that one. Calgary has our number in the second half of the season since the Jokinen deal and are a team I would be worried about coming across in the playoffs.

Ok, I Admit It

I got a little pissy about the Wings during their run of embarrassing losses. After reading this article..........I'M BACK ON THE CONFIDENCE WAGON!!!!

Excerpt from the article: "I can taste another long run," Lidstrom said. "I can feel it in this room. The guys are getting that focused look in their eyes."

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=414523&cmpid=rss-wigge

CCHA FINAL: ND 5 Michigan 2

Very disappointing finish to the CCHA season....there's only one way to make up for it. WIN IT ALL THIS YEAR! How many seasons in a row is Michigan Hockey going to toy with my emotions?

Red Wings 6 Thrashers 3

It amuses me every time the Wings go to Atlanta because there are more road fans there than any other venue; even Chicago or Columbus! Atlanta is a sorry franchise that needs to be sold and moved. Or for starters they should at least change their uniforms.

Red Wings 3 Flyers 2

Nice comeback against a decent Eastern Conference opponent. It looks like Babcock is going with Ozzie for the long haul. We'll see if he can help deliver one more time.

CCHA

As for Michigan Hockey, it's time once again to try to deliver a much needed national title. They need to make a statement by knocking off Alaska tomorrow, and beating a highly-touted Notre Dame team in the finals (assuming they beat Northern). MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Red Wings 4 Blue Jackets 0

My anguish has been eased a bit by two solid back to back road performances. I'm very interested to see if Babcock sticks with Osgood for the Philly game on Tuesday. He's going to have to go with someone sooner or later. As for the team, keep playing consistent and if you lose, don't get embarrassed. No more 5+ goals allowed! Our defense and goaltending are better than this!

Red Wings 5 Blues 2

The Wings kind of own the Blues this year (and decade perhaps?). The game was won in the second period, which was the only period they outplayed the Blues. Osgood actually helped them win the game with some solid saves in the first and third. I want to see how well the Wings play in Columbus tomorrow in another dreadful back to back game against the team that crushed them last week.

Flames 6 Red Wings 5 (OT)

OUR DEFENSE AND GOALTENDING ARE AWFUL! This game confirms my great concern as we get closer and closer to the playoffs. And this was another game where goaltending was a problem. The Wings outshot the flames 25-2 and could only grab a 2-1 lead. Then Conklin lets by some soft goals, combined with the fact that the team folded defensively in the third (outshot 17-2) after having a commanding lead. What the hell is going on?!

Red Wings 3 Coyotes 2 (OT)

We beat a crappy team that we should beat. Whoop-de-da.

Blue Jackets 8 Red Wings 2

Ok, I'm done giving Ozzie the benefit of the doubt. He has been given time by the team to work on his game and has shown no major improvements at all. The team itself is only coming to play selectively as well, so my mentality and confidence in the Wings has gone to where it was at about 2-3 years ago: "The playoffs will be fun to watch but I'm not expecting the Wings to get past the second round." This is the second straight week we've been shelled by a division opponent. That is not the way for an alleged Western Conference favorite to play on a weekly basis. Perhaps the team will get it together a bit when all key players return to the lineup, but the shaky goaltending and random nights of awful defense have almost completely destroyed my confidence.

Red Wings 3 Avalanche 2

Thank you for not losing again to a team that is absolutely derailing. I expected a sluggish performance, and from what I saw it was at times. That's how the Wings usually play on the second game of back to back nights but at least they pulled out the win this time. I'm looking forward to Saturday night's game against the Jackets. Columbus will be fired up and looking to maintain their playoff positioning.

Red Wings 5 Blues 0

Yes.

This is exactly how you respond to an 8-0 loss. The Wings survived a 1st period against a Blues team that had playoff intensity to start the game. They were hitting the Wings every chance they got, and then the shorthanded goal by Kopecky settled everything down and the Wings took over. AND FILLLPPPULLA FINALLY GETS A GOAL! AND OZZIE FINALLY GETS A SHUTOUT!!!

Predators 8 Red Wings 0

WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!

The only good thing that came out of that performance was watching Lilja leave the game after getting his ass beat.

That game just needs to be forgotten and improved upon immediately. Whether it's a 1-0 or a 100-0 loss it's still only ONE loss. Forget about it and move on.

Red Wings 2 Kings 1

Osgood's return was most definitely a solid one. LA's goalie Quick looked pretty sharp as well. It was good to see guys like Meech and Kopecky put the puck in the net with Hossa out of the lineup and the normal stars not hitting the back of the twine. Tomorrow night's game in Nashville should be tough as the Preds are battling every night to get in the top 8.

Red Wings 4 Sharks 1

BIG WIN. It's not big because I think we are going to catch the Sharks; but because it's important that we stay within a range to make us think we have a chance. Otherwise, the team will go into a big lull heading into the playoffs. Zetterberg's goals were both things of beauty, and Conklin continues to play great.

Wild 5 Red Wings 2

Tough day for Jimmy Howard. Time to get rested up, boys. BIG standings game against the Sharks on Wednesday!

Red Wings 5 Ducks 2

Ty Conklin isn't going away and is going to make it a difficult decision for Babcock on who to start come playoff time. Do you go with experience despite a bad season, or the goalie who has been consistently solid all year long? Personally, I can see pros and cons to either side of this argument so I have no preference. But I am not a big buyer of the argument that Osgood should start SOLELY because of his experience. He's going to need to play better down the stretch.

Red Wings 6 Predators 2

5 power play goals. That's pretty embarrassing no matter who you are playing. Their penalty kill looks like ours. It was amusing watching Marian Hossa and Ryan Suter drop the gloves as well. It looked like a slap fight.

Avalanche 6 Red Wings 5 (SO)

Nice offensive performance, and a lot of tough breaks in the first period. Another game where Osgood wasn't sharp and is making opponents look good. It's pretty annoying that they waited one minute to start playing defense in each period, but I'll take the point.

Blue Jackets 3 Red Wings 2

I traveled down to Columbus for this game and got to watch Andres Lilja continue to be the absolute worst "head-up" player on the Red Wings. Constant terrible passes up the middle and slow play led to a goal and a few great chances for Columbus.

Anyway, the Jackets have a nice atmosphere down there and, unlike Detroit, their fans show up to the game on time and fill the seats from start to finish. I was impressed.

As for the game itself, Steve Mason was outstanding in the third and made a big difference. Typical 1st period for the Wings on back to back games. Overall, I'm not too worried about the loss. But it would be nice for Andres Lilja to be sent to the minors forever.

Red Wings 4 Wild 2

Oops..forgot to post on the one.
Um.......nice win guys

Red Wings 5 Predators 3

The Red Wings superstars are in full force right now. Hossa has been on a roll and the euro twins have been lighting the lamp frequently lately. If they keep this up we can gain some crucial ground on San Jose. Keep it rolling!

Red Wings 3 Penguins 0

Looks like we get the last laugh on Pittsburgh this year (unless they win the cup or these two teams meet again in the finals; both very unlikely). And, to cap it off, former Penguins Conklin and Hossa play a big role in the victory. Is Pittsburgh going to make the playoffs this year? It will be interesting to watch that story unfold.

Red Wings 8 Oilers 3

Offense Offense Offense. That's the name of the game this year. 8 different Wings and the board and NO POWER PLAY GOALS ALLOWED! The Oilers are awful defensively this year and I believe this is at least the third time they have allowed 8+ goals this year. Yikes. Should be a dandy tomorrow in Pittsburgh. Let's try not to allow 7 goals this time.

Red Wings 5 Coyotes 4

Well, we're winning again despite getting off to slow starts and having the worst penalty kill ever. I thought that the call at the end of the game should have been let go and probably would have been pissed if the situation was reversed. It was looking like it was going to be a complete victory, but I have to get on Ozzie a bit for the first time this year. Their 3rd and 4th goals were pretty weak.

Red Wings 4 Blues 3 (SO)

Despite the win, what a ho-hum effort this evening. One thing I am pissed at is our penalty kill, which has been awful since the season started. The Wings aren't going after the guys with the puck when opponents are setting up the power play, which is allowing them to pass around and set up scoring chances easily. We need to be much more aggressive than that. One player that needs to step up his game offensively is Filllllpppullllla. He has been completely invisible in the absence of #40 and 96. He and others need to kick it into gear a bit because Hossa is not going to be there every single night. Great 3rd period and overtime by Ozzie!

Capitals 4 Red Wings 2

It was a strong game by the Wings until OV took over in the third period. Hats of to Ville Leino for a solid outing and an amazing first goal of his career. Strong performance by Abdelkader as well. We have three home games coming up that the Wings need to use to get things going back in the right direction. If they lose two of those three, then maybe I'll start to begin to worry. Just a little.........

Stars 4 Red Wings 2

The Wings played their worst first period I've seen in a long time. They came out absolutely flat, took a bunch of stupid penalties because the Stars were skating circles around them easily since they were playing effortless, and paid for it.

It was nice to see them step it up physically in the second period and climb back in the game, but it completely disappeared once the third period started. It appears that this will be the first, and hopefully only slump of the season. Saturday's game against Washington will be a good indicator of that. If the Wings come out flat again in the first against an energetic team like the Caps, expect the same result.

Blue Jackets 3 Red Wings 2 (OT)

The Wings did a great job of containing everyone...except Columbus' best player. Rick Nash is the most unknown star in the NHL because of where he plays and he single-handedly beat the Wings last night.

In other news, great job signing Zetterberg to a new contract. I hear it's a 12 year contract?! Wow. And, of course, on the same day, he gets injured.

Michigan 5 Michigan State 3

So, now MSU is in the basement of the CCHA. Embarrassing............

Michigan 6 Michigan State 2

5 in a row against MSU for the first time since 1981. Wow.... State just doesn't look interested in competing at all this year. Not used to that....

Coyotes 6 Red Wings 3

This Phoenix team is something else this year, I must say. Anyway, I've been hearing a lot of bitching on the radio and letsgowings.com forums about how we have a goaltending problem and that our defense isn't what it used to be and just absolutely freaking out. Newsflash: THE NHL HAS A TIGHT SALARY CAP. Thus, talent is more spread out and every team (even a "powerhouse") will have a weakness, and most have more than one. That's why we focused on keeping our team intact AND adding Hossa, idiots. What are you going to think when we lose either Franzen or Hossa this season (there's no reasonable way we can keep them both)? Relax and enjoy this team. They are fun to watch and one day we're going to lose some of these amazing players you are taking for granted because you're too busy worrying about two bad back to back games despite the fact that we have the best offense in the league.

Sigh.....

Sharks 6 Red Wings 4

Well, the theme of this series has been the home team outplays the road team. It would be great if the Wings ended up meeting the Sharks in the playoffs this year, but I have a feeling one of them is going to choke early. It appeared that San Jose fans were riding high after the win, but we all know what happens to the Sharks in the playoffs year after year. Talk is cheap now...let's wait until April and see how things go down.

Red Wings 4 Kings 0

I missed most of this game, but it was nice to see Malts on the box score a few times after sitting out the other day. COME TO PLAY AGAINST SAN JOSE TOMORROW GUYS.

Red Wings 4 Ducks 3

The Wings won the game, but it seemed to me like Anaheim was bullying them around for most of the game. They have the talent and the goaltending (see Osgood's performance in the last minute of this one) to go all the way, but they could run into a problem if they play a physical team that comes after them this year.

Stars 5 Red Wings 4 (OT)

Wow...

That was ugly. I can't believe the Wings even got a point out of that. Hats off to Osgood for standing on his head to make it look closer than it should have been. Let's shake that awful defensive performance off.

Michigan Sweeps Miami

Alright! Well then let me declare this my annual time of the year when I get excited about Michigan hockey's chances at having a great season, only to be disappointed later! But they did need to sweep this home series against the highly rated RedHawks, and made it happen. Keep it rolling, boys.

Red Wings 3 Sabres 1

Patience pays off. The Wings put over 20 shots on net in the 3rd? Holy hell! Miller almost stopped them all, too! Great game winner by Samuelsson. Ok...I admit it. He's having a decent season. Don't tell anyone I said that though. I really wanted them to win this game because of how poorly they've played against the East this year. I know it doesn't matter that much, but it's nice to beat the teams you don't play often. Big road trip coming up!

Red Wings 6 Stars 1

I can't believe this Dallas team was in the Western Finals last year. They look bad and uninterested in winning this year. Marty Turco is a top 5 disappointment this season as well. Good thing we play them two more times this month!

Red Wings 3 Blue Jackets 0

Dominant performance tonight, especially by Conklin. His save in the first period was amazing!

Alexander Semin....

.....you are embarrassing.



I can't believe you starting slapping the hell out of Staal when he was down after you got your ass kicked. Wow...

Red Wings 3 Wild 2 (SO)

I'm really starting to become convinced that Pavel Datsyuk is in competition with Alex Ovechkin as being the best all around player in the NHL. What an amazing shootout goal! Great return for Chris Osgood. He made so many big saves in this game, and the two he let by were not really his fault as the Wings broke down for about 30 seconds.

WINTER CLASSIC: Wings 6 Hawks 4

What a great game! This was a perfect day for hockey. The atmosphere was incredible, the teams played with playoff intensity, and THE WINGS WON! Another great rally by the good guys, who proved again that no lead is safe against them (despite the fact that they failed to come to play in the first period AGAIN). The only time I got really pissed was when Lilja lost an easy battle in the corner to Ben Eager, who ended up getting the third goal for Chicago. Lilja basically pussed out on making a big hit because he was afraid that he was going to get another penalty.

Anyway, I truly think it will be hard to top this year's Winter Classic in terms of venue, gameplay and atmosphere; but the NHL is definitely sitting on a marketing goldmine with this thing.