Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Bruins and Klippers Thoughts
Tomorrow I'll post the interview with the legend Lanny McDonald before yesterday's Bruin and Klipper game. Lanny was my favorite hockey player when I was 5 and I always look forward to meeting with him. In the interview we talked about Junior Hockey, the All-Star game, the Heritage Game and should the Flames trade away Iggy among others.
And now my thoughts about the Bruins and Klippers game. First off, a pretty good game between the 2 teams. The difference was Kindersley took advantage of the Bruins mistakes while the Bruins couldn't take advantage of the Klippers mishaps.
The Klippers would lead 2-1 after 1.
In the second period, the Bruins got a lot of bad luck as they beat Klippers goalie Sean Cahill three times, but the puck didn't go in the net. Matt Dochylo had his shot go inches above the crossbar, Ben Findlay slid a puck through Cahill's five hole on a breakaway but the puck went wide, and Cole Olsen hit the crossbar. The Bruins would tie up the game at 2-2 after 40 minutes thanks to Dylan Smith.
Fights were the theme in the third, as Ben Findlay squared off with Jordan Hoffman, and considering the damage Findlay had on his hand after the fight I would score the decision in favor of Findlay.
Then Lucas Stubel squared off with Jesse Mysiorek. It wasn't much of a fight, Stubel landed the only punches in the fight. But Stubel yanked on Mysiorek and fell to the ice. With Stubel on his back and the linesman grabbing Stubel's arms, Mysiorek would land a couple of punches on Stubel.
Throughout the game the Bruins fans would get under the skin of the Klipper players. And after the Klippers won the game 4-2, the Klippers would storm the ice and hold their sticks exactly like in Blades in Steel, hoisting them like they won the Stanley Cup. Words were exchanged with Klippers Head Coach Rocky Zinger and the Bruins Chad Leslie.
Clearly the Klippers didn't win any fans with their actions as Lanny McDonald said he didn't approve of Kindersley actions.
My opinion is that Kindersley is a good hockey team and they deserved a win last night. But I find it hard to justify their post game celebrations. But like Lanny said to the Bruins. You have to put the image of the Klippers celebrations in the back of your mind and think about it the next time they play them in the playoffs.
Because it just seems like these teams HAVE to meet in the playoffs now.
And now my thoughts about the Bruins and Klippers game. First off, a pretty good game between the 2 teams. The difference was Kindersley took advantage of the Bruins mistakes while the Bruins couldn't take advantage of the Klippers mishaps.
The Klippers would lead 2-1 after 1.
In the second period, the Bruins got a lot of bad luck as they beat Klippers goalie Sean Cahill three times, but the puck didn't go in the net. Matt Dochylo had his shot go inches above the crossbar, Ben Findlay slid a puck through Cahill's five hole on a breakaway but the puck went wide, and Cole Olsen hit the crossbar. The Bruins would tie up the game at 2-2 after 40 minutes thanks to Dylan Smith.
Fights were the theme in the third, as Ben Findlay squared off with Jordan Hoffman, and considering the damage Findlay had on his hand after the fight I would score the decision in favor of Findlay.
Then Lucas Stubel squared off with Jesse Mysiorek. It wasn't much of a fight, Stubel landed the only punches in the fight. But Stubel yanked on Mysiorek and fell to the ice. With Stubel on his back and the linesman grabbing Stubel's arms, Mysiorek would land a couple of punches on Stubel.
Throughout the game the Bruins fans would get under the skin of the Klipper players. And after the Klippers won the game 4-2, the Klippers would storm the ice and hold their sticks exactly like in Blades in Steel, hoisting them like they won the Stanley Cup. Words were exchanged with Klippers Head Coach Rocky Zinger and the Bruins Chad Leslie.
Clearly the Klippers didn't win any fans with their actions as Lanny McDonald said he didn't approve of Kindersley actions.
My opinion is that Kindersley is a good hockey team and they deserved a win last night. But I find it hard to justify their post game celebrations. But like Lanny said to the Bruins. You have to put the image of the Klippers celebrations in the back of your mind and think about it the next time they play them in the playoffs.
Because it just seems like these teams HAVE to meet in the playoffs now.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Bruins Win Wild One
It wasn't pretty but the Eagle Drilling Estevan Bruins beat the Flin Flon Bombers 7-6.
The Bruins stormed out to a solid first period scoring the first 4 goals. Ryan Andersen started the scoring as he sniped a beautiful goal from his knees as the Bruins lead 1-0. Less than 2 minutes later Jonathon Ceci added to the Bruins lead with his 19th of the season.
The Bruins would take full advantage on a 5 on 3 power play when Lucas Stubel scored his 7th on the season which was followed Chris Daniels third of the season to make the score 4-0 after 1.
In the second the Bombers would start quickly as Devan Stillar scored 9 seconds into the period on the powerplay to cut the lead 4-1. Matt Szpak scored his first of the season on a knuckleshot to extend the Bruins lead to 5-1. The Bombers would add a late one as the teams walked into the dressing rooms with the Bruins leading 5-2 after 40 minutes.
The Bombers wouldn't go away easily in the third as they scored twice to cut the lead to 5-4.But the Bruins would soon catch a break as Ceci would be the recipient of a lucky bounce of the boards and buried his second of the game. with the score 6-4 and 10 minutes remaining the Bombers would make stage another comeback. Ryan Fox scored a pair including one with 31 seconds left to tie the game at 6-6.
But in a wild ending the Bruins would create a mad scramble in front and Ceci completed the hat trick and give the Bruins the win with 17 seconds left.
Shea Cooper picked up the win for the Bruins and the powerplay 2 for 5.
The Bruins will be in action against the Kindersley Klippers tonight at 7:30 in Fan appreciation night where Lanny McDonald and Dan Rashovich will be on hand before the game signing autographs for the fans.
The Bruins stormed out to a solid first period scoring the first 4 goals. Ryan Andersen started the scoring as he sniped a beautiful goal from his knees as the Bruins lead 1-0. Less than 2 minutes later Jonathon Ceci added to the Bruins lead with his 19th of the season.
The Bruins would take full advantage on a 5 on 3 power play when Lucas Stubel scored his 7th on the season which was followed Chris Daniels third of the season to make the score 4-0 after 1.
In the second the Bombers would start quickly as Devan Stillar scored 9 seconds into the period on the powerplay to cut the lead 4-1. Matt Szpak scored his first of the season on a knuckleshot to extend the Bruins lead to 5-1. The Bombers would add a late one as the teams walked into the dressing rooms with the Bruins leading 5-2 after 40 minutes.
The Bombers wouldn't go away easily in the third as they scored twice to cut the lead to 5-4.But the Bruins would soon catch a break as Ceci would be the recipient of a lucky bounce of the boards and buried his second of the game. with the score 6-4 and 10 minutes remaining the Bombers would make stage another comeback. Ryan Fox scored a pair including one with 31 seconds left to tie the game at 6-6.
But in a wild ending the Bruins would create a mad scramble in front and Ceci completed the hat trick and give the Bruins the win with 17 seconds left.
Shea Cooper picked up the win for the Bruins and the powerplay 2 for 5.
The Bruins will be in action against the Kindersley Klippers tonight at 7:30 in Fan appreciation night where Lanny McDonald and Dan Rashovich will be on hand before the game signing autographs for the fans.
Friday, January 28, 2011
All Star Mock Draft
Mock Draft Staal wins the coin toss
Staal Lidstrom
1. Stamkos Ovechkin
2. H.Sedin D.Sedin
3. D. Byfuglien C.Ward
4. Tim Thomas K.Yandle
5. J.Toews B Richards
6. Z.Chara M. Staal
7. J.Hiller C.Price
8. S.Weber A. Kopitar
9. P.Sharp P. Kessel
10. M. Fleury H. Lundquist
11. D.Boyle D.Keith
12. D Briere R. Nash
13. B.Burns L.Karlsson
14. M.Havlat M.Duchene
15. C. Giroux P.Stastny
16. J.Skinner M.Havlat
17 L.Erikkson C.Perry
18 D. Backes P.Elias
Staal Lidstrom
1. Stamkos Ovechkin
2. H.Sedin D.Sedin
3. D. Byfuglien C.Ward
4. Tim Thomas K.Yandle
5. J.Toews B Richards
6. Z.Chara M. Staal
7. J.Hiller C.Price
8. S.Weber A. Kopitar
9. P.Sharp P. Kessel
10. M. Fleury H. Lundquist
11. D.Boyle D.Keith
12. D Briere R. Nash
13. B.Burns L.Karlsson
14. M.Havlat M.Duchene
15. C. Giroux P.Stastny
16. J.Skinner M.Havlat
17 L.Erikkson C.Perry
18 D. Backes P.Elias
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Kot Back in the Lineup
The Estevan Bruins will get a big boost in the lineup tomorrow night with the return of Joel Kot to the lineup.
Kot has been injured since Dec.18 with a shoulder injury suffered in Nipawin. Kot will bring a lot of offensive firepower from the blue line. He also provides a true quarterback for the Bruins powerplay.
While the Bruins will welcome Kot back with open arms, it will mean a couple of worthy defencemen will be sitting in the press box. Guys like Matt Szpak and Eric Baldwin have played for the Bruins over the last week. The Bruins are experiencing the best problem in hockey. Too many good players, in so many few spots.
Kot has been injured since Dec.18 with a shoulder injury suffered in Nipawin. Kot will bring a lot of offensive firepower from the blue line. He also provides a true quarterback for the Bruins powerplay.
While the Bruins will welcome Kot back with open arms, it will mean a couple of worthy defencemen will be sitting in the press box. Guys like Matt Szpak and Eric Baldwin have played for the Bruins over the last week. The Bruins are experiencing the best problem in hockey. Too many good players, in so many few spots.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Tuesday Thoughts
SJHL
One week closer to the playoffs and nothing is settled in the Sherwood. I think for the Bruins, a win over Melville would give them a huge advantage for 4th spot. The Bruins and Mils don't meet again until the final game of the season. I think an 8 point lead for the Bruins right now, would be too big for the Mils to overcome.
NHL
So Crosby...Malkin..Iginla..Hemsky are all going to miss the All-Star Game. Still I'm excited for the fantasy draft. I think Staal and Lidstrom would be crazy if they don't pick Steven Stamkos with the first pick. I think he may give Sid a run for the Hart and may even pass him as the favorite not too long from now.
NFL
Packers and Steelers in the Super Bowl. Kind of a meh final for me. I don't mind either team, don't really hate either but don't really love either. I'm cheering for the Steelers cause I love Big Ben and Polamalu.
Well got too run and do the Mils-Bruins Game
One week closer to the playoffs and nothing is settled in the Sherwood. I think for the Bruins, a win over Melville would give them a huge advantage for 4th spot. The Bruins and Mils don't meet again until the final game of the season. I think an 8 point lead for the Bruins right now, would be too big for the Mils to overcome.
NHL
So Crosby...Malkin..Iginla..Hemsky are all going to miss the All-Star Game. Still I'm excited for the fantasy draft. I think Staal and Lidstrom would be crazy if they don't pick Steven Stamkos with the first pick. I think he may give Sid a run for the Hart and may even pass him as the favorite not too long from now.
NFL
Packers and Steelers in the Super Bowl. Kind of a meh final for me. I don't mind either team, don't really hate either but don't really love either. I'm cheering for the Steelers cause I love Big Ben and Polamalu.
Well got too run and do the Mils-Bruins Game
Bruins Vs Mils
The Eagle Drilling Estevan Bruins are in Melville tonight, a game you can catch on CJ1280 and Discoverestevan.com
The Bruins are thinking about third spot in the Sherwood Conference, but in order to get there they need to create some gap between them and the Millionaires.
The Bruins lead the Mils by 6 points for 4th spot in the Sherwood, but Melville holds 2 games in hand on the Bruins.
The Bruins do hold the season series edge on the Millionaires having won 4 of the first 5 games this season. The last time these 2 teams met each other was at the SJHL showcase in Weyburn when the Bruins beat the Mils 4-3 in a shootout.
Since then the Bruins have added 20 year old Jonathan Ceci, while the Mils unloaded their Captain Brayden Metz and 20 year old Cody Hanson.
But even with their moves at the deadline the Millionaires are a confident bunch who think they can make a run at the Bruins for 4th spot.
The Bruins head into tonight's game 5 points back of Weyburn, who are idle tonight.
We'll have all the action from the Vault in Melville beginning with the pre game show at 7:20.
The Bruins are thinking about third spot in the Sherwood Conference, but in order to get there they need to create some gap between them and the Millionaires.
The Bruins lead the Mils by 6 points for 4th spot in the Sherwood, but Melville holds 2 games in hand on the Bruins.
The Bruins do hold the season series edge on the Millionaires having won 4 of the first 5 games this season. The last time these 2 teams met each other was at the SJHL showcase in Weyburn when the Bruins beat the Mils 4-3 in a shootout.
Since then the Bruins have added 20 year old Jonathan Ceci, while the Mils unloaded their Captain Brayden Metz and 20 year old Cody Hanson.
But even with their moves at the deadline the Millionaires are a confident bunch who think they can make a run at the Bruins for 4th spot.
The Bruins head into tonight's game 5 points back of Weyburn, who are idle tonight.
We'll have all the action from the Vault in Melville beginning with the pre game show at 7:20.
Bruins Depth Comes Up Big
It was an emotional win for the Estevan Bruins on Saturday night when they beat the Kindersley Klippers. The Bruins beat the Klippers 4-2 on the final game of their 3 game road trip.
The key for the Bruins was their depth players played outstanding games. The Bruins best d-men in the win were Eric Baldwin and Matt Szpak. For the most part in December and January the two have been listed as the 6th and 7th defencemen. The way those two played on Saturday, they'll both be seeing plenty of ice time in the future.
Up front you can't say enough about the work Matt Docyhlo and Josh Jelinski have done lately. The 2 have been the most consistent forwards. On Saturday, Head Coach Chad Leslie moved the 2 on to separate lines and it really sparked a couple of lines. Dochylo played with Ben Findlay and Justin Waskewitch and scored the huge opening goal of the game on Saturday. Jelinski was on the line with Chris Daniels and Cole Olsen, and that line scored 3 goals.
The strength of the Bruins maybe their depth, and if guys like Docyhlo, Olsen, Jelinski, Baldwin and Szpak continue to provide the spark to the Bruins lineup, there's a good chance the Bruins can go far into the playoffs.
The key for the Bruins was their depth players played outstanding games. The Bruins best d-men in the win were Eric Baldwin and Matt Szpak. For the most part in December and January the two have been listed as the 6th and 7th defencemen. The way those two played on Saturday, they'll both be seeing plenty of ice time in the future.
Up front you can't say enough about the work Matt Docyhlo and Josh Jelinski have done lately. The 2 have been the most consistent forwards. On Saturday, Head Coach Chad Leslie moved the 2 on to separate lines and it really sparked a couple of lines. Dochylo played with Ben Findlay and Justin Waskewitch and scored the huge opening goal of the game on Saturday. Jelinski was on the line with Chris Daniels and Cole Olsen, and that line scored 3 goals.
The strength of the Bruins maybe their depth, and if guys like Docyhlo, Olsen, Jelinski, Baldwin and Szpak continue to provide the spark to the Bruins lineup, there's a good chance the Bruins can go far into the playoffs.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Bruins Depth Comes Up Big
It was an emotional win for the Estevan Bruins on Saturday night when they beat the Kindersley Klippers. The Bruins beat the Klippers 4-2 on the final game of their 3 game road trip.
The key for the Bruins was their depth players played outstanding games. The Bruins best d-men in the win were Eric Baldwin and Matt Szpak. For the most part in December and January the two have been listed as the 6th and 7th defencemen. The way those two played on Saturday, they'll both be seeing plenty of ice time in the future.
Up front you can't say enough about the work Matt Docyhlo and Josh Jelinski have done lately. The 2 have been the most consistent forwards. On Saturday, Head Coach Chad Leslie moved the 2 on to separate lines and it really sparked a couple of lines. Dochylo played with Ben Findlay and Justin Waskewitch and scored the huge opening goal of the game on Saturday. Jelinski was on the line with Chris Daniels and Cole Olsen, and that line scored 3 goals.
The strength of the Bruins maybe their depth, and if guys like Docyhlo, Olsen, Jelinski, Baldwin and Szpak continue to provide the spark to the Bruins lineup, there's a good chance the Bruins can go far into the playoffs.
The key for the Bruins was their depth players played outstanding games. The Bruins best d-men in the win were Eric Baldwin and Matt Szpak. For the most part in December and January the two have been listed as the 6th and 7th defencemen. The way those two played on Saturday, they'll both be seeing plenty of ice time in the future.
Up front you can't say enough about the work Matt Docyhlo and Josh Jelinski have done lately. The 2 have been the most consistent forwards. On Saturday, Head Coach Chad Leslie moved the 2 on to separate lines and it really sparked a couple of lines. Dochylo played with Ben Findlay and Justin Waskewitch and scored the huge opening goal of the game on Saturday. Jelinski was on the line with Chris Daniels and Cole Olsen, and that line scored 3 goals.
The strength of the Bruins maybe their depth, and if guys like Docyhlo, Olsen, Jelinski, Baldwin and Szpak continue to provide the spark to the Bruins lineup, there's a good chance the Bruins can go far into the playoffs.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Saturday, January 22, 2011
UFC Fight for the Troops Picks
EVAN DUNHAM VS. MELVIN GUILLARD
Pick: Dunham
TIM HAGUE VS. MATT MITRIONE
Pick: Mitrione
MARK HOMINICK VS. GEORGE ROOP
Pick: Hominick
PAT BARRY VS. JOEY BELTRAN
Pick: Barry
COLE MILLER VS. MATT WIMAN
Pick: Wiman
Pick: Dunham
TIM HAGUE VS. MATT MITRIONE
Pick: Mitrione
MARK HOMINICK VS. GEORGE ROOP
Pick: Hominick
PAT BARRY VS. JOEY BELTRAN
Pick: Barry
COLE MILLER VS. MATT WIMAN
Pick: Wiman
Friday, January 21, 2011
Stars Tip the Scales against the Bruins
It was a tough game for the Bruins in Battlefords a 5-4 loss. The game was a see-saw affair. No team had more than a 1 goal lead.
This was a game the Bruins marked as a must win. They now face a very tough Kindersley Klippers team, back to back in Kindersley. A split is crucial for the Bruins, so they don't fall behind the pack for the top 3.
The Bruins are probably going to shake things up for the lineup tonight as they begin the back to back.
You can catch the game on CJ1280 and discoverestevan.com beginning at 7:20
This was a game the Bruins marked as a must win. They now face a very tough Kindersley Klippers team, back to back in Kindersley. A split is crucial for the Bruins, so they don't fall behind the pack for the top 3.
The Bruins are probably going to shake things up for the lineup tonight as they begin the back to back.
You can catch the game on CJ1280 and discoverestevan.com beginning at 7:20
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Tuesday Thoughts
SJHL
I really think for the Bruins the next 4 road games will go a long way to determine how far they will go in the standings. If the Bruins could sweep the back to back games against Kindersley, I think it will be a big step for them to finish in the top 3.
NHL
Eric Staal and Nicklas Lidstrom are great captains, but for the All Star game my 4 choices ahead of them would have been Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Steve Stamkos, and Jonathan Toews. Still I'm looking forward to the draft next Friday.
NFL
Just thinking this year's NFL playoffs could be the final NFL action for extended period of time, makes me want to cry. This has been one of the most entertaining playoffs ever. Really looking forward to what should be a pair of solid Conference finals.
Wouldn't it be something if the Jets beat the Steelers on Sunday. To get to the Super Bowl, the Jets would have beaten Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Ben Roethlisberger in one playoffs. Those 3 are the most successful QBs in the NFL over the last 10 years. The Jets definitely would have earned their way to the Super Bowl.
CFL
Love Richie Hall coming back to Saskatchewan as Defensive Coordinator. Even though the Riders made the Grey Cup, I thought there was only a few games where the Defence stood out for the Riders, I think Hall and Greg Marshall will bring some bite back to the Riders D.
Baseball
Going out on a limb, but I think the Jose Bautista will not be a Blue Jay at this time next year. I got the feeling Bautista will have a good year (he isn't hitting 54 homers again) and the Jays will end up trading him at the deadline, and continuing to rebuild.
UFC
Fight for the Troops is Saturday. Disappointed it's not Evan Dunham and Kenny Florian aren't fighting, but looking for Dunham to continue to rise even after getting robbed in the loss to Sean Sherk. Looking for Mark Hominick to get the win and set up a featherweight title shot against Jose Aldo.
That's it today.. See ya tomorrow
I really think for the Bruins the next 4 road games will go a long way to determine how far they will go in the standings. If the Bruins could sweep the back to back games against Kindersley, I think it will be a big step for them to finish in the top 3.
NHL
Eric Staal and Nicklas Lidstrom are great captains, but for the All Star game my 4 choices ahead of them would have been Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Steve Stamkos, and Jonathan Toews. Still I'm looking forward to the draft next Friday.
NFL
Just thinking this year's NFL playoffs could be the final NFL action for extended period of time, makes me want to cry. This has been one of the most entertaining playoffs ever. Really looking forward to what should be a pair of solid Conference finals.
Wouldn't it be something if the Jets beat the Steelers on Sunday. To get to the Super Bowl, the Jets would have beaten Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Ben Roethlisberger in one playoffs. Those 3 are the most successful QBs in the NFL over the last 10 years. The Jets definitely would have earned their way to the Super Bowl.
CFL
Love Richie Hall coming back to Saskatchewan as Defensive Coordinator. Even though the Riders made the Grey Cup, I thought there was only a few games where the Defence stood out for the Riders, I think Hall and Greg Marshall will bring some bite back to the Riders D.
Baseball
Going out on a limb, but I think the Jose Bautista will not be a Blue Jay at this time next year. I got the feeling Bautista will have a good year (he isn't hitting 54 homers again) and the Jays will end up trading him at the deadline, and continuing to rebuild.
UFC
Fight for the Troops is Saturday. Disappointed it's not Evan Dunham and Kenny Florian aren't fighting, but looking for Dunham to continue to rise even after getting robbed in the loss to Sean Sherk. Looking for Mark Hominick to get the win and set up a featherweight title shot against Jose Aldo.
That's it today.. See ya tomorrow
Monday, January 17, 2011
Football Hangover
It was the biggest upset for the New York Jets since Super Bowl 3 as the Jets beat the New England Patriots 28-21 to advance to the AFC championship. But was it really that big of an upset?
Yes the Patriots were at home, and Tom Brady was the best QB this season. But comparing the Jets roster to the Pats roster, it seems like the only position the Pats are better than the Jets is QB.
The Jets are a confident team, and should be even more confident heading into Pittsburgh since the Jets beat the Steelers in Pittsburgh earlier this season. I thought the Jets would make the Super Bowl at the beginning of the season and I'm sticking by that pick.
Yes the Patriots were at home, and Tom Brady was the best QB this season. But comparing the Jets roster to the Pats roster, it seems like the only position the Pats are better than the Jets is QB.
The Jets are a confident team, and should be even more confident heading into Pittsburgh since the Jets beat the Steelers in Pittsburgh earlier this season. I thought the Jets would make the Super Bowl at the beginning of the season and I'm sticking by that pick.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Re-Entering the Race
At the beginning of the season, the Estevan Bruins were a trendy pick to win the SJHL title and possibly contend for a RBC Cup. But after a rough month of December and a slow start in 2011, the Bruins have fallen out of favor with a a lot of the prognosticators.
But the Bruins have shown improvement over the last couple of games defensively and on the penalty kill. The Bruins haven't coughed up the puck as much lately and putting their goaltenders in a position to make a lot of difficult saves.
The PK is being more aggressive, playing more pressure on team's powerplays. Going 12/13 against the top 2 teams in the league La Ronge and Yorkton is an obvious indication the team is shoring up the penalty kill.
The Bruins now enter a portion of their schedule to re-establish themselves against the teams ahead of them. With 6 out of their 15 games left against Weyburn,Kindersley and Yorkton, the Bruins have the chance to get back in the thick of the race.
But the Bruins have shown improvement over the last couple of games defensively and on the penalty kill. The Bruins haven't coughed up the puck as much lately and putting their goaltenders in a position to make a lot of difficult saves.
The PK is being more aggressive, playing more pressure on team's powerplays. Going 12/13 against the top 2 teams in the league La Ronge and Yorkton is an obvious indication the team is shoring up the penalty kill.
The Bruins now enter a portion of their schedule to re-establish themselves against the teams ahead of them. With 6 out of their 15 games left against Weyburn,Kindersley and Yorkton, the Bruins have the chance to get back in the thick of the race.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Divisional Picks
NFC
Atlanta vs Green Bay
Winner: Atlanta
Chicago vs Seattle
Winner: Chicago
AFC
New England vs New York Jets
Winner: Jets
Pittsburgh vs Baltimore
Winner: Baltimore
Atlanta vs Green Bay
Winner: Atlanta
Chicago vs Seattle
Winner: Chicago
AFC
New England vs New York Jets
Winner: Jets
Pittsburgh vs Baltimore
Winner: Baltimore
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Tuesday Thoughts
Thoughts on the SJHL deadline...
I think the SJHL really is now going to be battle between 6 teams. I think it will be a shocker if anybody not named La Ronge and Melfort will emerge from the Bauer Conference. The South will come down to 4 teams Estevan, Yorkton, Weyburn and Kindersley. It may be the whoever's best team in February.
Thoughts on the BCS Championship...
What a game. While Auburn and Oregon didn't put up 80-100 points on the scoreboard, they still produce an exciting game. I think US college football is the most underrated sport to watch in Canada. It has the offensive firepower of the CFL with the hard hitting style of the NFL.
Thoughts on NFL Playoffs
I went 2-2 and if you aren't a Seahawks fan I'm sure the best you could have done was 3-1. I picked Jets-Ravens in the AFC Finals in September, so that's likely my pick this weekend. But anybody thinks Rex Ryan is bad for the NFL is crazy.
Thoughts on UFC Ultimate Fighter...
Brock Lesnar and Junior Des Santos as coaches is a great choice for coaches and a fight. Looks like a Main Event for Vancouver. I will be watching this every Wednesday. Can't wait.
I think the SJHL really is now going to be battle between 6 teams. I think it will be a shocker if anybody not named La Ronge and Melfort will emerge from the Bauer Conference. The South will come down to 4 teams Estevan, Yorkton, Weyburn and Kindersley. It may be the whoever's best team in February.
Thoughts on the BCS Championship...
What a game. While Auburn and Oregon didn't put up 80-100 points on the scoreboard, they still produce an exciting game. I think US college football is the most underrated sport to watch in Canada. It has the offensive firepower of the CFL with the hard hitting style of the NFL.
Thoughts on NFL Playoffs
I went 2-2 and if you aren't a Seahawks fan I'm sure the best you could have done was 3-1. I picked Jets-Ravens in the AFC Finals in September, so that's likely my pick this weekend. But anybody thinks Rex Ryan is bad for the NFL is crazy.
Thoughts on UFC Ultimate Fighter...
Brock Lesnar and Junior Des Santos as coaches is a great choice for coaches and a fight. Looks like a Main Event for Vancouver. I will be watching this every Wednesday. Can't wait.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Ceci a Bruin
Yesterday I thought the Bruins would be pretty quiet before the deadline today, but after watching the Bruins lose to the Ice Wolves last night in overtime, I saw a frustrated team looking for a spark.
With the Humboldt Broncos auctioning off the majority of their 20 years old on the weekend, there wasn't much left on the market with the exception of a pair of Nipawin Hawks. (I said that with the knowledge Cody Hanson of Melville being dealt last night) Matthew Spafford and Jonathan Ceci. Spafford ended up in Dauphin while Ceci is in Estevan.
Bruins Head Coach Chad Leslie felt Ceci was a better fit for the team, I tend to agree with Ceci being more of a playmaker while Spafford offering more grit with his skill. The Bruins have plenty of size and grit. Ryan Andersen, Mark Cross, Troy Hunter, Josh Jelinski, Matt Dochylo give the Bruins plenty of grit, but with the Bruins only scoring 3 goals and a team that is having a hard time manufacturing scoring chances, a play maker like Ceci was needed.
Sounds like Ceci will be play centre. With Ceci at centre i think Hunter is going to be moving on the wings, a position that I think suits Hunter better. I think he can be a bigger force crashing on the boards, plus he might be a winger playing with Ceci.
I think too for the Bruins just having a new face in the locker room will be a boost. I just think that this team is more talented than their record and bringing one of the best players in the last month, should be a boost in the locker room and raise the spirits.
I know I'm looking forward to seeing the Bruins meet the Terriers on Wednesday with Buzzeo and Boyer in their lineup. Should be a fun game to watch.
With the Humboldt Broncos auctioning off the majority of their 20 years old on the weekend, there wasn't much left on the market with the exception of a pair of Nipawin Hawks. (I said that with the knowledge Cody Hanson of Melville being dealt last night) Matthew Spafford and Jonathan Ceci. Spafford ended up in Dauphin while Ceci is in Estevan.
Bruins Head Coach Chad Leslie felt Ceci was a better fit for the team, I tend to agree with Ceci being more of a playmaker while Spafford offering more grit with his skill. The Bruins have plenty of size and grit. Ryan Andersen, Mark Cross, Troy Hunter, Josh Jelinski, Matt Dochylo give the Bruins plenty of grit, but with the Bruins only scoring 3 goals and a team that is having a hard time manufacturing scoring chances, a play maker like Ceci was needed.
Sounds like Ceci will be play centre. With Ceci at centre i think Hunter is going to be moving on the wings, a position that I think suits Hunter better. I think he can be a bigger force crashing on the boards, plus he might be a winger playing with Ceci.
I think too for the Bruins just having a new face in the locker room will be a boost. I just think that this team is more talented than their record and bringing one of the best players in the last month, should be a boost in the locker room and raise the spirits.
I know I'm looking forward to seeing the Bruins meet the Terriers on Wednesday with Buzzeo and Boyer in their lineup. Should be a fun game to watch.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Trading Deadline Thoughts
The trading deadline is tomorrow and unlike last Monday where the Estevan Bruins were the major news makers with the coaching change, I'm expecting them to be quiet.
The first reason why I suspect this is because the fact the move was made to replace Karry Biette as GM a week before the deadline. The move gives Rick Oakes (Director of Player Personnel) and Chad Leslie (the new head coach) much time to come up a strategy heading into the deadline.
There's also the 20 year old factor. The Bruins are maxed out with the amount of 20 year olds on their roster, if the Bruins were able to make a move for a 20 year old, they would have to surrender one in return. I don't see any of the Bruin players moving at the deadline.
I also think the Bruins see Joel Kot's return like a trading deadline acquisition. Kot is likely out for a couple of more weeks, will add a lot to the Bruins blue line. The team is having trouble moving outside of its zone since Kot went on the injured list. He also adds some stability to the power play.
Unless the Bruins make a swap for maybe a 19 year old forward, I think that the current roster the Bruins have, will be the one that will be counted on to lead the team in the playoffs.
The first reason why I suspect this is because the fact the move was made to replace Karry Biette as GM a week before the deadline. The move gives Rick Oakes (Director of Player Personnel) and Chad Leslie (the new head coach) much time to come up a strategy heading into the deadline.
There's also the 20 year old factor. The Bruins are maxed out with the amount of 20 year olds on their roster, if the Bruins were able to make a move for a 20 year old, they would have to surrender one in return. I don't see any of the Bruin players moving at the deadline.
I also think the Bruins see Joel Kot's return like a trading deadline acquisition. Kot is likely out for a couple of more weeks, will add a lot to the Bruins blue line. The team is having trouble moving outside of its zone since Kot went on the injured list. He also adds some stability to the power play.
Unless the Bruins make a swap for maybe a 19 year old forward, I think that the current roster the Bruins have, will be the one that will be counted on to lead the team in the playoffs.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Wild Card Picks
NFC
New Orleans over Seattle
Philly over Green Bay
AFC
Baltimore over Kansas City
New York Jets over Indy
New Orleans over Seattle
Philly over Green Bay
AFC
Baltimore over Kansas City
New York Jets over Indy
Monday, January 3, 2011
Coaching Change
On January 3 2011, Canada defeating the USA in the World Junior Hockey Championships was the biggest news for every hockey community except maybe for Estevan Saskatchewan.
The Estevan Bruins announced today they have Karry Biette as Head Coach and GM of the Bruins.
This news does comes as a surprise to me because I really thought Biette would get the chance to take the team in the playoffs and if the team failed in the playoffs, then Biette would be removed.
But that's not the case, as the Bruins board felt now was the time to make a change before the team begins their playoff run.
The Bruins have gone 4-9 in their last 13 games, and haven't really put together a string of wins since November, so explains their 4th place standings. When Kindersley and Weyburn put together strings of wins like they did in November and December its hard to stay ahead when the Bruins last winning streak came in the beginning of November.
It seems coaching changes are starting to become the norm in the SJHL, Kindersley and Yorkton have all made changes in the last year and all have found success since their decisions.
One thing I can say is that the locker room wasn't the problem. I've been around this team for 3 years, and this is the best locker room I've been around. There was has always been a positive attitude in the locker room and none of the players have said anything negative about Biette this season, I haven't talked to the players yet but I'm sure they're disappointed.
With 20 games left, the Bruins have a chance to change their fortunes and make a run in the second half. With 4 homes games coming up this is great opportunity for the team to make a statement.
Personally I want to thank Karry for all the help he has provided me over the last 3 years and wish him the best in the future.
The Estevan Bruins announced today they have Karry Biette as Head Coach and GM of the Bruins.
This news does comes as a surprise to me because I really thought Biette would get the chance to take the team in the playoffs and if the team failed in the playoffs, then Biette would be removed.
But that's not the case, as the Bruins board felt now was the time to make a change before the team begins their playoff run.
The Bruins have gone 4-9 in their last 13 games, and haven't really put together a string of wins since November, so explains their 4th place standings. When Kindersley and Weyburn put together strings of wins like they did in November and December its hard to stay ahead when the Bruins last winning streak came in the beginning of November.
It seems coaching changes are starting to become the norm in the SJHL, Kindersley and Yorkton have all made changes in the last year and all have found success since their decisions.
One thing I can say is that the locker room wasn't the problem. I've been around this team for 3 years, and this is the best locker room I've been around. There was has always been a positive attitude in the locker room and none of the players have said anything negative about Biette this season, I haven't talked to the players yet but I'm sure they're disappointed.
With 20 games left, the Bruins have a chance to change their fortunes and make a run in the second half. With 4 homes games coming up this is great opportunity for the team to make a statement.
Personally I want to thank Karry for all the help he has provided me over the last 3 years and wish him the best in the future.
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