BBHB

Blues Face Yotes, Berglund Back In, Perron Off PP

2009-10-15T13:17:00.005-05:00

The Blues are in Phoenix tonight, where the bankrupt Coyotes are anything but cashing out. The Yotes are 3-2 with 2 shutouts under the belt of Ilya Bryzgalov, who after an early season trade 2 years ago was dynamite for the Coyotes is coming off a subpar year for last season's bottom feeder desert dwellers.

The Blues have their work cut out for them it appears, despite having circled this one on the calendar as a "win". With new head coach Dave Tippet providing order for the plethora of youths on their roster, the coyotes are playing well out of the gate. Compounded with Bryz's solid netminding, the Blues absolutely must erupt off the opening faceoff. This is not a team to be taken lightly and another slow start could sink any chances for a W in Phoenix.

Andy Murray has reset his lines combos for this matchup:

Kariya-Walt-Winchester

McDonald-Backes-Boyes

Perron-Berglund-Oshie

Crombeen-McClement-Steen

What do the Blues need to do to net these 2 points?

1. Come out with the mentality that they possessed at the end of last season. The Blues must come physical and determined out of the gate to set the tempo for themselves early. I noted a lack of physicality in the last couple games that I infer is both individual perception along with the idea that they've added EJ and Kariya. In this respect they have lost their identity a bit.

2. Shoot the Damn Puck. After mustering only 5 shots in the first on Atlanta and 3 against the Kings in the first period the Blues have to test Bryzgalov early and often, and hopefully get one by him early. The Blues have been outshot in the first frame every game except Atlanta, who matched them with 5.

3. Convert the PP. They're playing a young team. If they bring their brand of hockey to the table tonight they will get ample opportunities on the Powerplay. Finishing is the next step. The Blues are 0/8 since returning from Sweden on the man advantage.

Its been reported that after being on the ice for 2 shorthanded breaks and a deflected own-goal, that David Perron has been removed from the powerplay. While at first I looked at this as part of the feast-or-famine risk of playing a forward on the point, it appears Perron didnt make an appropriate change to get himself off the ice. Having played hockey myself I know that you don't always here the guys/coach yelling, but in his 3rd season as a pro he should have his built in clock dialed in. TJ Oshie wil ltake his spot.

Patrik Berglund, as noted in the the line combos above will return to the lineup. Cam Janssen is back in the press box, along with Alex Pietrangelo (to my chagrine) who sits in favor of callup Tyson Strachan.

Pcuk drops at 9pm local! Lets GO BLUES!!!

Blues On the Road, Look to Break Slow Start Trend

2009-10-14T10:58:00.004-05:00

The Blues are 2-2 after their first 4 games of the season. After rallying from 2 goal deficits against the Red Wings in Sweden to take both games, the Blues were unable to accomplish the same task in their first 2 games at Scottrade this season. It was perplexing to watch the Atlanta Thrashers and LA Kings jump on our Blues out of the gate. LA outshot the Blues 9-3 in the first frame. It was similar in the home opener.

Here is what I'm getting from watching the games in Sweden and attending the first 2 at home: The Blues think they are a finesse team. Gone is the smash mouth intensity. Roles have been muddied. David Backes is no longer chipping it around the defense and barreling in to grab the lose puck. He does this from time to time, a small thing that I raved about, his ability to get behind the D with his large frame. But I notice with alarm that he carries, and dangles a bit more. His 30 goal season may have gone to his head a touch, and carried him from what got him those 30 goals. His hitmeister demeaner has also waned.
Erik Johnson is trying to do too much too soon. The phenom defenseman is supposed to be a catalyst for the transition game, not THE transition game. In both home games I saw EJ walk it all the way up the ice to lose it just before or just inside the opposition's Blue line. Iim in awe when the big d-man flys up the ice, but he needs to take a page out of the Al and Pronger book and start lasering passes from our zone and joining the rush, rather than spearheading it.
Alex Steen and Crombeen need to mix it up more, dangle less. Simple is better for the fourth line. Sure these guys can contribute. They, along with the imprssive Jay McClement have the ability to find the twine. But they need to focus on the little things that defined their line last season. the Checking specialists need to get the puck deep into the opposing zone and hit, pester, create havoc and create turnovers. Steen loves to make moves off the boards, and Crombeen seems more intent on playing the puck than the body. Both mean more turnovers for us and less forced by the opponent.
Brad Winchester needs to use that body. The massive forward should be a formiddable opponent for any defenseman. He should be feared when forechecking. He, along with Walt, should create constant matchup problems with their size. He got "promoted" to a scoring line, and he too seems to have forgotten the essence of his 15 goal success. Use the body to create position and space, along with turnovers, and reap the benefits.

A side note: Daryl Sydor has done just fine as a veteran presence. His +4 rating is the best on the team, just ahead of partner Erik Johnson's +3. I'd still prefer that the Blues had brought a guy in from the stable, but so far he's filling his roll, even if its a little vanilla.

Blues head to the road for three against the shocking Yotes, the prongerless Ducks, and the powerful Penguins. 2 of 3 would be nice on this trip! Hopefully the boys in blue can come out of the gates flying and not have to play catch up...

Bell, Wagner Cut; 4 vie for 2 D spots

2009-09-22T11:53:00.003-05:00

So with Bell and Wagner shipped to Peoria, pending Bell's clearing of waivers, its down to 4 guys for the final 2 D spots on the team.

So far the locks are Johnson, Jackman, Polak, Weaver, and Colaiacovo. It appears the Blues are et to carry 7 D this year on the Big Club.

So as for the last 2 spots, we're looking at Junland, Strachan, Pietrangelo, and veteran Sydor. All the chatter indicates that Blues management really likes the steady veteran presence of Sydor to help out the youngsters. Some already predict him as a lock for one of the spots. I can see why the Blues may feel this way, but after having so much success last year with their youngsters, I can't really see a fading 37 year old D man providing much. As a 7th defensman, why not give some small minutes and big time experience to a guy you believe is a player and can be a part of the club for the long term.

This club finished 6th in the West last year, and with the return of Kariya and Johnson from season ending injuries the Blues have added a top end forward and top d-man to their team without diving into free agency. The players showed they had the confidence and leadership in the locker room, despite their youth, to play at an insanely high level. Last season's defensive corps of Jackman, Polak, Cola, Weaver, Mckee/Woywitka/Strachan was solid in the second half, even excelling at times.

With that said I don't think Sydor is the answer. I think you add Petro and Junland, a guy everyone thinks will be a player and will get NHL minutes at some point, even if he doesnt get a spot out of camp. Why not keep riding this youth surge? They're hungry, they're skilled. and the Blues locker room has proven to have the leadeship ability to guide youngsters both on offense and defense alike. Sydor is counterproductive to the Blues plan, as it stands now. Sure he's cheaper than McKee, but was that what we were looking for coming out of camp? A cheaper Jay McKee?

To say we need more experience on the blueline is oxymoronic when preaching a youth movement and hoarding a stable full of young, capable dmen. Jackman is a true vet. Colaiacovo probably can guide a youngster through anything after suffering through his myriad tribulations in Toronto. Weaver is a savvy journeyman who always makes the smart play. Johnson is as skilled as they come and wise in hockey knowledge well beyond his age. Polak is a prime example of just letting the young guys play, as his development curve rocketed exponentially after taking on a regular role last season. So here is what I would do: The final 2 spots go to Petro and Junland. With the way the Blues top 3 lines are shaping up the addition of skilled, puck moving defenseman like Johnson, Petro, and Junland and we shouldnt need some cagey old-timer to take care of our end because the game wont be played in our end. All the weapons to implement a transition offense are there, like the late nineties/early 00's. If Petro fizzles, we can still send him to his junior club after 9 games, and Strachan proved he can play tough at this level. There are just too many other options with a higher ceiling to justify giving a spot to Sydor.

JD and Co. have been espousing the youth movement since taking over. Keep it going. To change now would be foolish, and in my opinion, detrimental to the club.

Site Renovation and Update

2009-09-18T01:22:00.003-05:00

BBHB is coming back! This year we'll focus on breaking down trends for the team and individual players rather than trying to shoot on every single game. I think this will separate BBHB from a lot of the other guys out there. Don't get me wrong, I'll still comment on what I see in games, but I won't bother with the rundown like I have in the past...distant past.

Its shaping up to be an exciting season for us Blue Bleeders! Just listening to what recently extended coach Andy Murray is planning with the lines makes me salivate! I'll start posting for real after Fanfest, but until then chew on our line combos as Murray is playing it right now:

Boyes Berglund Kariya

Perron Backes McDonald

Oshie Tkchuk Winchester

Steen McClement Crombeen

That top 3 looks formiddable! How punishing will Walt, Osh, and Winch be? All those dangles around Backes' big body going through the middle? Berlgund setting the table for Paul and Brad?

Solid.

Avalanche can't bury Blues, McDonald Extended

2009-02-10T11:04:00.002-06:00

The Blues 4-1 strong victory over the Avs showed all the right signs for this team making a strong push down the stretch. Despite going down 1-0 in the first, the Note responded nicely in the 2nd, taking charge with 3 goals in a 5:30 second span at the outset to get up for good on the depleted Colorado squad. You have to beat the teams just ahead of you in the standings, and with the Avs trying their hardest without Sakic and Statsny down the middle, the loss of Hejduk in the first period really did them in.

For the Blues it was a lot of positives all the way around. Brad Boyes had a goal and assist to buffet a (gasp!) +3 night. Its great to see Boyes playing strong 5 on 5 and not just be a special teams sniper as he has been in the past. His great forecheck caused a turnover that he fed to Tkachuk for his goal, a monster shot that Budaj never heally had a chance for. It wa Keith's 6 even strength goal this year, his other 10 all on the PP. The Blues will need these guys to perform like this even strength the whole runt o the playoffs to have shot.

Tkachuk looks really good these days, even if hes not showing up a ton on the score sheet. He's commanding the puck and working from the boards to the middle with effectiveness not seen from him in some years. Witht he Blues showing life, I think its highly unlikely we move Walt at the deadline, but with his play and his constract status you had better believe Pleau is getting calls. I for one want Keith to finish his career here, but for some reason, I tend to be the minority when it comes to that sentiment. Either way, with Keith playing at such a high level the Blues win either way with a playoff push, or maximum return. Let also not forget that the Blues are nototrious for shipping out and resigning their vets, but I jsut can't imagine that with the excitement and buzz this team is generating that Keith would waive his no-trade to abandon this team right now. he considers himself a Blue, a leader, and wants to be here when this franchsie gets over the hump.

Chris Mason was strong in net for St. Louis, again. Manny may be forgotten by Blues fans quicker than expected.

Great to see Perron snipe that 4th goal. Too often the kid misses that 24 square foot maw that is the goal. he should have near 15 goals, minimum given his scoring opportunities this year, he simply has failed to execute when it comes to finding the twine. Hopefully this can ignite his confidence in his shot and ability to finish to complement his hands.

McDonald: 4 years 18.8 mil.

Great move by the Blues. Its been reported that the deal is structured 5.2 for the first 2 and 4.2 for the latter 2 years. It also includes a no trade clause. This is a solid deal for a guy capable of 70-80 pt seasons. Having a veteran bonified number one pivot man, and one who has won a Cup no less, is big for this young team. Andy may return to the lineup as early as tonight against Vancouver.

Blues vs. Vancouver

The Canucks come to town tonight holding the 8th spot in the west, the position the Blues are gunning for. While Luongo has yet to come back to true form after returning from injury, he's still not an easy puzzle to solve. The Blues will need all hands on deck to win tonight, from Mason on out. While at first glance a lot of people saw Mats Sundin as slow and plodding upon his return, the Big Swede is now playing with old friend Pavol Demitra and Kessel and is rounding back into form. And thats their second line behind the Sedin twins. This one, way more so than the Avs, will be barometric in how the Blues stack up against the better half of the conference.

Blues in Sweden?:

Its been reported the Blues will open the season next year in Stockholm against the Red Wings for a 2 game set. Its not confirmed by the teams or league, but it seems fairly certain. I think its a great move, with the cadre of Swedes the wings have along with Patrick "Bulan" Berglund on the Blues and it maked good sense. I think the Blues will gain a lot of quality marketing and PR traction and start to build name recognition abroad.

Blues Shoot Blanks in Shootout, legace on Waivers

2009-02-06T11:03:00.003-06:00

Legace first. Wow. While in yesterday's post I said it was obvious that we had to consider Chris Mason our number one tender, I never thought we would run Manny through the wire. When Sarah Palin gets ahold of you, the curse is a tough hex to break I suppose. Seriously, it is ashame, as Manny was a guy who really jumped on the program and gave it his all for the Blues. I remember seeing him in the CWE when he first came to St. Louis and how jovial and excited he was to be here. The man carried this team on his back for 2 seasons, including last years phenomenal All Star season. I think its a disservice to Manny and tarnishes the rep of this organization as one that takes care of its own. Bottom line, it is a business and I think with Manny's play so shakey of late, much diminishing his trade value, the Blues are simply trying to move his salary. Perhaps it will set up something bigger at the deadline. Who knows. it could also be they had no intention of signing him this offseason with Mason on the hook for 3 Million next year already and talented, young, and cheap Ben Bishop waiting in the wings. Like breaking up with a girlfriend, putting it off once you've made your decision only makes the process more agonizing.

Blues vs. Oilers:

That game was a fairly brutal affair. Skirmishes and scrums at nearly every whistle, chippy play in front of the net, and a whole lot of nasty things said about other guys moms and sisters. The telecast made note of it: Playoff intensity. Ales Hemsky was dead on for both his team and ours when he said the playoffs have already started. That goes for the whole lower half of the conference.

While it was good to see Perron churning it up, he really got the ragdoll treatment out there. Bet he's sore today.

Everyone I talked to after the loss lamented the Blues SO abilities. From "We never win a shootout" to "We suck at this. We shouldn't even send guys out" and even "Who did we have out there, Chris McAlpine and Charlie Huddy?" the short term memory of fans is evident. Perhaps from too many blows to the head in our rec leagues? regardless, its not the truth. In fact at the all star break the Blues were 5-2 in the shootout. Before losing to Detroit Mason had one all four he had been in this season. They still hold a 5-4 mark, a considerable improvement over last season.

I'll get back if any more Manny news pops up. I hope a team picks him up, even as a backup. This league would miss something if it didn't have our Manny being Manny in a locker room somewhere.

Post All Star ReCap and Other Thoughts

2009-02-05T12:54:00.003-06:00

Well, so not quite back with a vengeance as advertised. I'll admit its, tough to get to this in as timely a matter as I would like, but I do what I can given circumstances.

After spotlighting the porous defensive play of Brad Boyes (lets face it his -23 at the time was why Tkachuk went to the All-Star game and not him) and my desire to see him up his away from the puck hockey, he immediately improved. In the Chicago game preceding the All-Star game he responded immediately (as if my criticism had any effect!) and since returning from the break his 2-way play has his plus minus on the rise to -22. If not for the pedestrian netminding of manny legace against the Red Wings, he would have raised that mark even higher, as all three goals, all stoppable and soft tallies, went against Brad's line. Bottom line, Brad should be looking at a +3 over his last 10 games, rather than the 0 he's credited with.

Game Recaps:

Great against Chi-town before the break, allowing the Note to capture 7/8 points in the week prior to the layoff. Shutting Chicago out in their own house is not an easy task.

The first game back against Ottawa was an abomination. Listless play, sloppy turnovers all combined to the typical late goal that has plagued the Blues, and cost them many games, all season. It could ahve been playing down to an opponent, or it the longer pause than most other teams (7 days as opposed to the 4-5 most other teams had off), but regardless it was a disaster that threatened the building momentum the Blues had generated before the All Star game.

The game against Philly was a textbook team win, with Mason backstopping a 4-0 shutout on the road. Hard to complain about anything in that dominant win.

The last 2 stops on the road trip, Detroit and Columbus was a tale of one team with 2 different results. In both the entire team put up a solid effort, and capitalized when opportunities arose. In the Detroit game, Legace (who one would hope would get zoned in for his former team) shit the bed, allowing 2 soft long goal before getting caught cheating by Hossa and subsequently chased. Manny took full responsibility for the loss.after stopping 5 of 8 shots. Solid tending by Mason allowed the Blues to battle back from 2 one goal deficits against Columbus, as he turned aside 31 of 33.

I think its pretty clear to any Blues fan that Manny's head and/or groin is not up to snuff. In my opinion Chris Mason has to be considered the number one goalie despite management's insistence they're just riding the hot hand.

Tonight against Edmonton the Blues will have to backcheck hard against the quick skating Oilers. I hate to say it but the Scotty's poor ice may help the Blues slow this team down. This upcoming stretch of 5 games has the Blues take on either teams they are chasing directly, like Edmonton, Colorado, Nashville and Vancouver, or true foe and test of team mettle Chicago. It could well determine whether the Blues get back into the Playoff picture or fall by the wayside.

The Stretch has already begun for the Blues, let the fun begin!

Blues Blow into Windy City Buffeted by Beantown Win

2009-01-21T10:52:00.002-06:00

The Blues are in Chicago tonight to take on the Blackhawks. Of late this old rivalry seems to have had a new spark to it. It seems more and more the youngsters on each squad are developing into a new peer-rival group. With the return of TJ Oshie and recent play of Backes, Perron, and Berglund, the Blues may just have the answer to Patrick Kane and Johnathan Toews.

Don't forget Oshie and Toews were linemates at The University of North Dakota, adding another layer to this long running game of one-up-manship.

After last Saturday's 2-1 loss to the Hawks at Scottrade, a tilt in which the Blues played and executed well enough to win, the Blues look to return the favor on the Hawks home ice. The last 5 games between these teams, and all 3 this season have been decided by a single goal or shootout. That in itself tells you these teams really compete against each other.

I really want Brad Boyes to make an effort to be more than just a finisher. His -23 is alarming and his inabilty to carry the puck for long (which I think is more a product of his legs than hands) and work in traffic makes him wholly one-dimensional. I personally think this comes down to focus and motivation. Lets hope we see some more of that from Brad in the second half.

Tidbits:

Whitfield and Wagner have been reassigned to Peoria as to get game action over the All-Star break.

Keith Tkachuk notched his 500th career assist on the game tying goal against Boston.

David Perron's addition to the Youngstars game in his hometown should be a blast. I can't wait to watch him dangle 3-on-3! With all that room he'll be able to delve deep into his reservoir of tricks...

Post game later!

Blues win Despite blind Zebra

2009-01-19T15:42:00.002-06:00

The Blues beat Boston, the number one team in the East this afternoon on their home ice. The untelevised game was still amazing to listen to. I havn't heard Chris Kerber and Kelly Chase so worked up in quite a while.

After gifting the Bruins with a 3 on 5 PP with 5 miuntes left, the ref single handedly shifted the game from the hard working Blues to the Bruins who got consecutive PP goals to take a 3-2 lead. I was cursing out my radio until David Backes tipped a David Perron shot in with 1:20 remaing. I sat there and said, at least we have a chance. And it would be Backes again who would score the tying goal with under one second to go in regulation...What a FINISH!

The game was decided in a shootout in which Oshie and Boyes both scored on the Blues first 2 attempts while Chris Mason got help from the post on Blake Wheeler, and then stopped Axleson on the Bruins second attempt.

A great rally and awesome perseverance by the Blues, who refused to be denied!

Not much to break down here without viewing the game, but man was that fun!

Blues vs. Beantown and Trade Bait

2009-01-19T10:10:00.002-06:00

SO I'm back with a vengeance. All Star game is coming up, trade deadline just over a month away, the economy has gone into the crapper and the Blues still sit at the bottom of the West.

Todays game against the Bruins is a tale of the haves and have nots. The Bruins have 70 pts, the Blues 38, while the Bruins are 1st in their division while the Blues are last. Powered by a top tier goaltender and a great mix of young (Kessel, Wheeler, Krejci) and veteran (Ryder, Savard, Chara, Wideman) players the Bruins top down team concept has 4 of the top 5 plus/minus players in the NHL. The Blues have their work cut out for them.

Big Walt is a game time decision for todays game.

Trade Bait:

A preliminary list of who the Blues could dish at (or before) the deadline.

Jay McKee:
Rugged shot blocker looks back in fom this season after 2 unjury plagued campaigns. Lots of contenders looking to tighten down their D could use a man of his ablities.

Manny Legace:
Lots of goaltenders are moving around right now. Manny can either shore a team lot Ottawa up for a playoff push or provide inexpensive insurance to a contender.

Keith Tkachuk:
Big Walt has a no trade clause so this may not be all that likely to happen, but certainly some teams will come calling for the veteran's services. Personally I would like to see Walter serve out the remainder of his if Don Waddell wants to barter, I'd answer the phone.

Andy McDonald:
The plus pivotman acquired from Anaheim last season has begun preliminary talks with the Blues on a contract extension. We could see a "Weight" move (though this also happened with Keith) here, where they get close or have an understanding and trade him with the understanding he'll be signed again. While he'd fetch the biggest return, its probably better they get him locked up.

Dan Hinote:
The Veteran energy guy is highly likely to be moved and is just the sort of spark plug contenders liek to add. He's got a Cup Ring and lots of playoff experience.

Jay McClement:
Speedy fourth line center and PK specialist could be moved if the Blues don't see the RFA fitting into their plans with the deluge of talent coming through the pipes.

Jeff Woywitka:
Enigmatic defensman shows flashes of ability and could be a reservist or fallback guy for a playoff team.

Post game later!

Detroit Steals 2 pts, Walt still Rolling

2008-10-23T14:30:00.001-05:00

I posted yeasterday but due to some glitch at blogger it never went up. Here's a redux:

The reviled Red Wings, hated evil empire and barometer for where your team is, came to town and found the Blues a little timid. Coach Andy Murray took exception to Manny Legace's assertion that the Blues were "Star struck", noting that seeing a division rival 8 times last season should eliminate any such occurance. However, after attending the game I have to say I'm siding with Manny. The Blues carry a lot of youth past Oshie and Berglund. Perron is still 19 and not impervious to nerves when facing a daunting opponent like the wings. Polak, Wagner and even depth D-man Mike Weaver, all shouldering full roles this year in the early going, were understandably on their heels at the outset of this one. While the Blues threw some weight around, a lot of weight, and had some quick transition oriented scoring chances, the Wings dominated puck possesion and the Blues' zone. It wasn't until Big Walt netted his 7th of the year in the waning moment of the 2nd period that the Blues got energized, and relaxed. Going to the locker room with a chink in the armor of the "impervious" Wings, they were able to emerge in the 3rd period with confidence and with good energy. If not for an untimely broken stick, the Blues well could have claimed a point, or even 2.

Some thoughts on some players:

Keith has been reborn on left wing. No longer in open ice at center he's dominate on the boards and able to throw big hits to separate opponents from the puck. He's on pace for 85 goals (just had to say it!).

David Perron came into this season more mature, more confident, faster, and stronger. Apparently this has translated into him ignoring his linemates and holding the rock for far too long. David must realize that to capitlize on his immense talent he needs to utilize the other talent around him. Using his hands to draw defenders frees up his linemates. Timely passes will create many more scoring opportunities for them and him when he figures it out. Until then opposing defensemen will recognize his tendency to hold the puck and easily negate him.

Eric Brewer was the best Blue on the ice for a period and a half. He challenged the Wing forwards, threw big hipchecks, and made smart plays to get out of the zone. Then in the third, when his teammates woke up he went into a slumber. Eric's inconsistent focus and play are agonizing. As the Captain he has to bring it for the full sixty, all 82.

Great to see Jay McKee finally filling the role we got him for. He was like a second goalie located in the circle. I counted 3 blocked shots in one defensive sequence.

After essentially writing off Jay McClement at the end of last year, he has stepped up hs game this year. He's PK looks good, he's moving fast and creating even on the fourth line. Its a contract year, as Jay looks at being an RFA at the end of this season, and I think he realizes he has something to prove with the logjam of talent coming up the Blues pipeline.

Blues Bits:

Not so much Blues oriented, but had a chance run in with Jamie Kompon, former St. Louisan and Blues video coach, now an assistant on Marc Crawford's staff. He's loving being an assistant on the bench and living in LA. He told me it was 90 degrees when he left and you could still surf without a body suit. Last time I saw him Mike Cammelleri was holding out, so this time I asked him about the trade of Cammi. Essentially, the Kings were told what Mike was seeking as an UFA at the end of the year. Lets just say its in the 6-7 range and while Mike will get his 70+ points, he doesn't command the entire sheet of ice like a Zetterberg, Crosby, or Ovechkin, so it stands to reason he shouldn't command that type of money. The Kings figured it was wiser to pile up on the youth and picks while waiting to spend that money on a bonified elite player.
Best of luck to Kompon in all his endeavors and his burgeoning career!

Later!

Blues Rolling, try to be fly in Detroit's Ointment

2008-10-22T11:30:00.002-05:00

Its been a few days since I chimed in. Busy at work and on the home front. Lots of Fam in town.

Recapping the last couple of games: The Blues abused Dallas to the tune of a 6-1 beating. The Stars played the night before in Nashville and couldn't match the Blues' energy in front of the home crowd. What liked most about this game, outside the PP continuing to roll, was that the Blues ahd six different players net goals. That is exactly what we'll need to compete all season, contributions from everone, including the D, who claimed half of the Blues' tallies.

Despite Eric Brewer's goal in this contest I can't stand that our team Captain and highest paid defensman is a second half player. It unacceptable and the way this guy looks out of it at times gets my hackles up.

Blackhawks: What a game! The boys really dug deep for this one. The last 2 minutes of regulation had me on my seats edge. Really some of the most gripping hockey action we've seen in a while. Great time for Andy McDonald to find the twine for the first time this year. TJ Oshie looks better and better each game. I'm waiting for his legs to catch up with his hands (or vice versa depending on the play/shift) but when this comes together its going to be AMAZING. Awesome goal to clinch the shootout for the Blues.

Blues Bits:

Stempniak will play tonight against the Wings.

Berglund is Day to Day with a shoulder issue. Please, God, its only a bruise, right?

DJ King is out for the season after running awkwardly into the boards delivering a hit against Chicago. He dislocated the shoulder and needs surgery which sounds to this injury veteran like he did some damage to his labrum or cuff. If it came fully out they usually tear something back there.

Blues replaced King by picking Koci off waivers from Tampa. This guy has 160 PIMs in just 26 NHL games. That projects to about 480 PIMs a season...

Going to the game tonight....Here's hoping the boys in Blue can hold back the Crimson Tide!

Toronto Sings the Blues!

2008-10-16T13:15:00.002-05:00

Many thanks to idiot checking forward Ryan Hollweg for giving the Blues a W on Monday. During the matinee game on Canada's Turkey Day, the boneheaded Hollweg ran yet another Blues player from behind, this time rookie Alex Peitrangelo, garnering a 5 minute major, a game isconduct and 3 game suspension. The ensuing power play enabled the Blues to rally from a 3-1 deficit to trump the Leafs in a shootout 5-4. The Blues netted 2 power play goals ont he 5 minute penalty.

Hollweg also ran a Blues player in a preseason game, for which he was suspended for the first 2 games of the season. There was a reason the Rangers gave him away for nothing, and Toronto is finding out why early.

Speaking of Peitrangelo, after being one of the best skaters against the Isles, his game Monday was lacking. Obviously as an 18 year old defenseman there will be some miscues, but if he wants to stick around past nine games he needs to shore up his play in his own zone fast. With the Blues running 4-5 fowards on the PP his presence isn't mandatory by any means.

Congrats to Blues rookie Patrik Berglund on his first NHL goal!

Stemper is still out with his knee tweak. Many Blues fans get more nervous with each passing game, including this one.

Many are anxiously awaiting the Sean Avery-Cam Janssen matchup tonight versus Dallas. Personally I couldn't care less. Far more entertaining than those will be watching Oshiem Backes and Dallas' Brendam Morrow mix big hits with scoring ability. Also, Berglund vs. Brunnstrom has the Swedish world buzzing.

I feeling like its time for Oshie to pot his first in the Note. Lets go TJ!

Laters...

Blues Weekend Recap

2008-10-13T11:15:00.002-05:00

Friday vs. Nashville:

What a home opener! The building was absolutley buzzing!

Great to see Big Walt get off to a fast start. The power play looked like a bonified weapon, and the key guys took charge.

Andy McDonald was flying, making great cross ice passes all night. Paul was tenacious with the puck, particularly on the half boards. The Blues as a whole did a grat job going to the net, creating chances. Brad Boyes' goal was textbook, as Andy went cross ice to Kariya who streaked down the left wing and lasered a pass to Boyes as he split past the D, one-touching the puck to the upper corner.

The young guys looked solid, but not dynamic. Butterflies may have been a part of this, but they didn't make mistakes which is what you look for in a debut like that. Perron, had a nice outing, notching a couple of assists including a nice pass from behind the net for one of Keith's PP tallies.
He did have a couple of classic Perron moments where he held the puck instead of hitting a streaking McDonald or Kariya, but thats part of the package. The kid loves to have the puck!

Being a part of the environment and euphoria its hard for me to be critical of anything in this game. Brewer din't even make any glaring mistakes!

Saturday vs. Islanders:

This game was grounding, to say the least. NYI, picked as a bottom tier team in the East got to Mason early, and the Blues as a whole looked sluggish to say the least. I don't know if some of the guys made a late flight into a late night after landing in NYC, but focus was lacking all around.

Several missed opportunities to clear the zone compiled with defensive miscues made "soft" goals given up by Mason possible. There really never should have been the opportunity for several, including Hunter's shot from high out and and the shorty, where Brewer let a man slip in behind him for a tap in.

On a positive note the young guys, in particular Oshie and Peitrangelo really looked sharp. Oshie was a force with the puck, showing how his hard nosed skating and quick hands work so well together. He created scoring chances for himself and team mates on several occasions. Petro looked at ease, moving the puck around and beating Islanders in the neutral zone time and again. He also manned his point well, pinching to hold the puck in at the right times with confidence.

Mason, while allowing a couple of softies, looked good after the first period overall. That some of those opportunities never should have been allowed by his teammates, it is still his job to stop the puck when it comes his way. He looked a little keyed up, but settled in a little too late to help his slow starting team. Bottome line the Blues would have easily handled the Isles had they played with half the fire of the previous night.

On a side note, compared to the atmosphere at the Scotty Friday Nassau Coliseum was a mortuary. It makes me that much prouder to be a Blues fans when I see and hear a crowd like that. Could have been a tennis match.

Notes:
Stempniak won't play til at least Thurday vs. Dallas. His tweaked knee will be rested to avoid aggravating it.

Barret Jackman's awkward collision Friday, which had me worried when he went off with assistance, turned out to be just a bruise from a skate. He played in NY and is fine.

Blues and Toronto starts in a few minutes!

West later, perhaps tommorrow...

Blues Predictions (west will wait for weekend)

2008-10-10T10:24:00.003-05:00

As I sit here at my desk, giddy for the drop of the puck tonight, I wonder about a post Eklund at Hockeybuzz had up. His "30 reasons for Hope" said this of the Blues: "If the young guys go on a run could finish high as fourth."

Wow I thought. In my many conversations with friends and fellow puckheads about what I think the Blues can do this year I've been called a homer, an eternal optimist (what diehard fan isn't though), a kool-aid drinker, and an idiot. Never did I say the Blues had a chance of finishing in the top four.

But I do believe that this team is way better than people give it credit for. The following predictions are identical to those I sent to my bud Smitty, an STL expatriate living in Avalanche country. I got his message around 10 am : Smells like a new season this morning." And it did. And it does. Without further ado, the BigBluesHockeyPredictions:

Perron, Boyes, Tkchuk all score 30+ goals.

Stemper, Kariya, McDonald all pot 20+.

McDonald and Kariya push 80 pts.

Berglund wins the calder. I'm thinking 67 pts. He's that good.

Manny Legace will return to the All Star game.

PK rank: 12th (no Jammer, RJ, and EJ will set it back)

PP rank: 15th (Paul and Stemper on the points delivers the hard accurate shooting they so sorely missed last year to generate PP chances.)

Blues battle long and hard for playoffs and edge a simliar Phoenix team for the final berth.

John Buccigross and his 15th place finish sheepishly walk away from the conversation.

Blues Bits:

Berglund has switched to #21. Peitrangelo has switched to #27. Oshie and Perron are keeping their numbers.

The Al McInnis Hall of Fame bronze statue will be installed around the 1st of January. The Blues will move the Bernie Federko (or shrine of the stache) to the new display installation at the main entrance of the Scotty.

Dave Checketts would be interested in buying the Rams.

Legace stars the home opener with Mason minding the basket on Saturday vs. Doug Weight and the Isles.

I am foaming at the mouth...

Got my West all laid out, just no time! Post them over the weekend. Enjoy the action tonight!

East Predictions and Blues Bits

2008-10-09T13:06:00.002-05:00

Eastern Conference Predictions:

#15: Toronto Maple Leafs-
Entertainment value of the Leafs has fallen to soap opera veiwing. Expect them to have the best chance at Tavares and then lose the lottery. Fitting end to this moribound franchise.

#14: Atlanta Thrashers-
With the departure of Marian Hossa this team has only one horse in Kovalchuk, and despite his prowess he can pull the cart by himself. Defense is young and goaltending inconsistent. A long winter in Hotlanta.

#13: Florida Panthers-
Solid D corps but shallow up front. This team would need huge seasons from newcomer Cory Stillman and young leaders Nathan Horton and Steve Weiss to sniff the playoffs. Olli Jokinen where have you gone...oh yeah, Phoenix. Say hi to Steve Nash for me.

#12: Carolina Hurricanes-
To many injuries to often. Scott Walker is on the shelf, Stillman is gone and Justin Williams' achilles injury leaves this team leaning on enigmatic Sergei Samsanov and Rod "The Bod" Brindamour coming off knee surgery at age 37.

#11: Tampa Bay Lightning-
The Mullet will be hard pressed to push this team into playoff contention even with the fantasy hockey like maneuvers of new owner Oren Kroules. They've got 3 solid forward lines but the defense is spongelike and 39 year old Olaf Kolzig and unproven Mike Smith are going to be the ones getting blitzed. It'll be a high scoring affair in Tampa almost every night.

#10: NY Islanders-
Garth Snow is out there. Much like the Canucks out west, this team's success rests squarley on the shoulders of the goaltender, Rick DiPietro. The additions of Mark Streit and Doug Weight should help the power play, but they fast returns on their youngsters to become a bubble team.

#9: Buffalo Sabres-
Great team speed and numerous scoring forwards. If Vanek begins like he ended last season and Maxim Afinigenov regains some magic this team can push the playoff envelope. The Sabres need a transition game from their defense to best utilize their offense but the loss of Spacek and Campbell will slow down the attack.

#8: Ottawa Senators-
2 games in and people are questioning the goaltending. I thought this would be over after Ray Emery left the continent, but people in the Capital City have to moan about something. This team has too much in Alfredsson, Heatley, and Spezza to be kept out of the playoffs.

#7: New Jersey-
Brian Rolston will help add some offense to a team desperately needed goals. Expect Elias, slowed by illness, and Jamie Langenbrunner to have rebound years. Oh yeah, never bet against Marty Brodeur making the playoffs.

#6: Boston-
It'll be a good year in Beantown, where the return of Patrice Bergeron will give the Bruins an excellent 1-2 pivot combo with Marc Savard. Phil Kessel looks poised for a break out season and Dennis Wideman looks as though he's developed into a bonified PP QB/ puck moving defensman.

#5: NY Rangers-
The Rangers let Jagr go home, but brought in aging sniper Markus Naslund to fill the void. Expect him to have better chemistry with Scott Gomez than Jags did. The imminent resigning of Brendan Shanahan means the Rangers will still score enough to let Henrik Lundqvist guide them to the post season.

#4: Philadelphia Flyers-
Peaks and valleys best describes the Flyers last season. With a healthy Simone Gagne and steady hand, the Broad Street Bullies should enjoy a lot of success in the new building. Can Martin Biron get them to the next level in the playoffs? TBD.

#3: Washington Capitals-
AO and Co. will cruise in the southeast, provided Jose Theodore doesn't get his feelings hurt.

#2: Pittsburg Penguins-
The Pens will have endure the beggining of the season without top end d-men Gonchar and Whitney due to injuries. Youngster Goglioski looks ready to fill some of that void, and free agent signee Miroslav Satan(the Pens silver medal after Marian Hossa bolted) should experience a rebirth playing with Sid or Geno.

#1: Montreal Canadians-
This team was fast and furious last year. Emerging stars Plekanec and the Brothers Kostytsin pair with veterans Alexei Kovalev, Saku Koivu, and new arrivals Robert Lang and Alex Tanguay (Tanguay will have a HUGE year I'm betting) to take the East. Les Habituals will make a habit of winning.

West and Blues predictions tommorrow!

Petro makes Opening Night ROster, Blues kick Tires on McLaren

2008-10-08T10:40:00.002-05:00

Fourth overall pick in the 08 draft Alex Peitrangelo will don the Note this Friday. Register 5 assists in the pre-season and working with the PP unit early the Blues seem inclined to give him the same 9 game tryout they gave Perron last year. If after nine games the Blues think he's better off with his Junior team he can still be sent down without burning a year of restricted free agency and a year of his entry level deal.

The Blues claim this has nothing to do with the absence of Erik Johnson, but lets be serious. Thats window dressing to not diminidh the kid's psyche. They want him to believe he made the team on his own merits giving him confidence as he enters the Big Boys game. To tell him he accidentally made the squad due to EJ's inability to dismount a golf cart would not be the ringing endorsement an 18 year old needs to move forward. This management team always says the right thing to the media and fans, but thats not just for those two groups. Using the media to send positive messages to players and personnel is simply another savvy operational strategy that JD knows how to manipulate after his tenure in cutthroat New York. He plays St. Louis sports reporters like a harp, making them sing the tune he wants sung.

While I believe that if EJ and Woywitka are healthy Petro is already with his Junior squad, he did look good in camp. I hope his learning curve is sharp, and he sticks.

Kyle McLaren

The Sharks sent McLaren through waivers the other day as they look to shed some payroll and a defenseman made expendable with the acquisitions of Dan Boyle and Rob Blake. Many have pointed out that without Mayers and Ryan Johnson on the PK unit, the Blues could really use some reinforcements for a special teams unit that finished 7th in the league last year. They'll be hard pressed to match that feat without some quick studies from the youngsters or the addition of a specialist like Kyle. His 2.5 mil salary isn't a big deal for the Blues, it simply boils down to whether you want to send a pick back while sacrificing ice time for guys trying to prove something like Polak, Junland, and Peitrangelo. I say let the kids play. Thats what the executive suite has been selling, and thats what I want to buy. No need for another stay at home d-man with a tendency to get his elbows up. Then again its not his fault his 6' 5".

Next couple of days I'll do my East and West Prediction, including Blues player projections as we creep up on the Friday Opener! Time is moving soooo sloooooooooooow...

Blues' Vets key pre-season Victory, Youngsters For Real

2008-09-26T13:44:00.002-05:00

Man, its been awhile and I've been so busy its been hard to sit down and hash out some thoughts on the upcoming season. Finally, I get to focus on hockey, evn if its over my lunch break.

The Blues beat the Dallas Stars on Tuesday 3-2. After not icing a team with the vets, except Kariya in KC versus the Kings, the big guns (or old cannons) gave fans hope that this team will get sound production from them and not rely on breakout seasons from the youngsters alone to be competitive.

Boyes, McDonald, and Stempniak all potted goals, including 2 (thats not a typo!) Power Play tallies that make me salivate. Even without Eric Johnson (who's situtation is well documented in other corners of cyberspace and doesn't need me to rehash it...besides I cry heavily when I dwell and my keyboard is not a fancy "spill proof" one) I believe the Note has the pieces to have a very productive PP. I thought so too last year. I really like the move Andy Murray made moving Kariya to the point. I like even more taking the PP out of the hands of alleged "guru" Ray Bennet. The head coach has opted to run the PP himself this year, a move long overdue and one that poses a perplexing reality: Why, when a successful PP is integral to a winning team (see the pile of 1 goal losses suffered last season and our last place PP) would you wait so long to take the reigns. Even when the Blues were winning last season it was in SPITE of the PP. I really hope these pan out the way I think they can. When you field units with Walt, Kariya, Boyes, Stemper, Perron and Oshie/Berglund you should have serious aspirations for your PP.

You will notice not one of the aformentioned names is a defenseman. '08 1st rounder Alex Pietrangelo marked 2 assists, both on the PP. I hope you all are praying he makes this squad. I am. Without EJ and managements seeming indifference to the availability of Matt Shneider there is no current defensman qualified to QB a 1st string PP. Wagner should see 2nd Unit duties to be sure, but entrusting him to work with Paul on the point is asking a lot. He isn't the Blue Chipper that Petro is. He was an undrafted free agent. He's work hard and developed his game. His ceiling just isn't as high.

On the topic of Schneider, I truly hope that Larry and JD are making some calls. Bob McKenzie of tsn.ca even has said that there could be a package leaving Anaheim including Bobby Ryan, the forgotten man taken #2 behind Sid the Kid. With Erik Johnson's base salary only at $850k (entry level performance bonuses won't be obtained because of his injury) the Blues just cleared 2.9 mil in cap space. Already sitting nicely below the cap, the Blues have both the need and cap space to accommodate him while not blowing away their self imposed budget. The question of course is what does Brian "brusque" Burke want back. Obviously not salary. Not a dime. Minor league contracts and picks? He won't get any high picks because everyone knows that with Teemu Selanne in camp with no contract that he has to make a move. I would advocate moving a few prospects for the savvy veteran blueliner and depending on the team's success either trade him at the deadline this year and receive a premium over what the organization gave up, or hold him and utilize him for what should be the Blues true coming out party in 09-10. A defensman like Sschneider is something every contender looks for, and the Blues have the options to either bilke a one of these antsy GMs or keep him in house for their own playoff run down the road.

Lastly, I want to throw a hunch I've been having out there. After attending FanFest at Scottrade Center and listening to the Dallas game I have a strong feeling that early Calder trophy favorite TJ Oshie will be usurped by team mate Patrik Berglund. This guy can bring it. He elevates the play of his linemates as you would hope a top end pivotman should and would do. If he sees time with the likes of Perron and Kariya, Oshie will be hard presses to keep up with the rangy and slick Swede. I hope he does! That would be dynamite for all of us.

I came across an interesting site about Berglund. He had a Swedish reporter and photgrapher cover his training camp and life in St. Louis, which contains some great pics. Most of the reporting is in Swedish, but its worth a look! Thanks to STLCardsBlues1989 for pointing this out to me.

All for now...getting back in the swing of things!

Blues Third Jersey Debuts in November

2008-09-05T12:31:00.002-05:00

Wow, that kills me. We have to wait 2 months into the season to see the third jersey. Ther have been few third jerseys that I actually LIKED in the past, but I also always thought that if the Blues did do one it could be one of the best. So when the news slipped via Andy Strickalnd that the Blues would unveil a "third" (still kinda has a nasty connotation, like in Ender's Game) I had long had an idea of what I wanted it to look like: Either a trumpet or Fleur-de-Lis woven through the legs of the Arch. When Strick the Quick went on to describe in vague terms the concept it seemed to hold true to something similar, though in a circle like the Wild's red jersey.

Maybe its just me, but I can't bring myself to buy one of the new Reebok Edge jerseys. I hate the yellow piping. It looks horrible. And the Reebok emblem in white on the bake of the blue jersey looks like an afterthought. That is why I'm really kinda geeked about the third. If anyone wants to claim purism and lambast the third jersey concept go ahead. But as soon as the league ditched the traditional sweater, all bets are off for me. Buying a new Edge jersey is like buying a third jersey to me, so I just hope the real third jersey looks similar to what is in my minds eye so I don't have to wear my soiled white Chris Pronger jersey for the rest of my life!

Blues Sign Pietrangelo, Prospect Tourney Here

2008-09-05T11:47:00.002-05:00

The Blues have inked 4th overall pick Alex Pietrangelo to a 3 year entry level deal. Specific terms weren't not available at this time. With training camp opening on the 19th, Alex will battle for a spot on the roster that is crowded with defensemen. With his recovery from mono behind him, Pietrangelo has an eye on sticking with the big club. The team can keep him for nine games without burning a year of his eligibility by then sending him back to his junior team. At 18 years old cracking an NHL lineup as a defenseman is a tall order, and Blues fans should probably temper their expectations. I for one see the Blues letting him stay for the nine, but after getting him an idea of the compete level sending him back to juniors to mature more. The Blues D is deep already, giving the aBlues front office the time to bring Alex along at a measured pace. No Baptism by fire as there was last year for EJ and Perron.

Alex will also get a little head start by participating next week at the Prospects Tournament in Traverse City, Michigan September 7-12. The annual tournament gives the Blues an opportunity to scrutinize their prospects and draftees a little close rand longer than if they were just to come to training camp.

Speaking of Training Camp, it starts on the 19th at the Mills, folowed by Fanfest at Scottrade on the 21st. Went to Fanfest last year and had a blast. I'll steer clear of Lee Stempniak, as I've convinced myself I may have jinxed him last season.

Me:

"Hey Lee, what do you think about 35 goals?"

Lee:

"We'll see how it goes..."

Me:

"C'mon, Its only 8 more."

Lee: (eyes kinda roll, shakes head, smirks)

"I'll see what I can do."

Yeah...poor form on my part. Should still be a great time!

Blues' Logo Cracks Top 5

2008-08-21T10:04:00.002-05:00

The Hockey News, the venerable periodical that longstanding hockey fans knew as their only source for pure hockey coverage before the age of the internet, has released their staff's ratings for each NHL club's main logo.

The Bluenote sits proudly near the top, claiming the 5th Rank.

From THN.com :

5. St. LouisBlues

Bluenote so classic, it stands by itself.

Enough Said!

The entire rankings can be seen HERE.

Return of the JDi

2008-07-09T10:34:00.002-05:00

Touche'!

John Davidson flexed his muscles yesterday, showing the hockey world that ther was substance behind his statement that "we won't be pushed around by another organization. Rather than bitch and moan about one of his RFAs being tendered an offer sheet, like Brian Burke, JD counterattacked the Canucks by putting in a sheet on recently acquired RFA Steve Bernier.

Steve Bernier

The Canucks recently traded for Bernier's rights for a 2nd and 3rd round pick. JD's 2.5 million, one year offer would have sent the Canucks only a 2nd rounder in exchange. Cagey move. With the backes offer sheet to Backes the Canucks handed JD all the info he needed to make his pointed counterpunch. Knowing what the Nucks gave up for Bernier, and what the 2.5 million offer compensation was, JD knew they would match. He said with his action"you try to poach my 23 year old pwer forward, I'll do the same..." and in doing so gave the Nucks the same cap hit as the Blues, but also by offering the RFA a one year deal left next year wide open for another go around after Bernier plays a season with the Sedin twins. A season when his value should rocket. That will leave the Canucks with an RFA to sign and extend after playing with 2 of their best forwards.

I said it in my previous post of the situation, that you didn't want to make to big a stink lest you look the fool when doing the same in the future. Luckily JD didn't go Burke, made only a couple of pointed comments, and then let action speak the rest. In this situation the pen is truly mightier than the sword. Rookie GM Gillis left himself wide open for this one, and JD gladly took the opportunity to give him some of his own medicine. Same as Backes' sheet, the compensation looked paltry in comparison, and the match was a no brainer. However the one year contract is binding, and puts the Nucks in a more difficult situation going forward. Not only with the long term implications for Bernier, but also for their current cap status, with contracts on the table for Pavol Demitra and Mats Sundin. The Nucks have 16.5 mil in cap space, and if those players sign those offers than with the Bernier signing its all gone. They still have a handful of RFAs to sign.

It didn't take long for JD to see the way of the new NHL's RFA terrain. I warned previously that this would be modus operandi in the future, and GMs had to get used to it. JD grasped the dynamic immediately and left no small doubt about his willingness to defend his turf, and the consequences of trying to take it. The GM's of the NHL still have their Gentlemen's Club, but in this environment differences aren't settled by verbature or sabre rattling. Its now a pistol dual. Gillis was quicker and took the first shot. He missed his mark, but raise the ire of his opponent. JD took aim, and while a glancing blow, has let it be known that you simply don't get a free shot at his organization.

UFA feeding frenzy winding down, Blues Hold Fast

2008-07-08T12:10:00.003-05:00

The only big news affecting the Blues organization was Vancouver's tendering of an offer sheet to young power forward David Backes. The Blues matched in a matter of hours to the tune of a 3 year, 7.5 million dollar deal for David, matching his friend and linemate Lee Stempniak on the pay scale.

While this news is nearly a week old, a lot has come out of this situation.

The Blues had been negotiating with Backes, but were willing, apparently to go to arbitration and get another year under his belt so they could better identify what they were paying for long term: A banger, or a bonafide power forward. Their somewhat casual approach cost them, as Backes could have been inked for something in the neighborhood of 1.5 a year. Now they are paying a cool million over that.

Rather than letting Vancouver twist in the wind for 7 days, JD and Co. matched quickly, letting David know that they have considerable respect for him, and consider him an important piece of their future. Those things could have been said in a week, but when you respond that forcibly, a player takes notice.

The Blues management team was unimpressed with how Vancouver handled the situation. In the gentleman's world of GMs, it is common practice to let it be known that you intend to put in an offer sheet, and offer a trade before it gets there. Well apparently the Canucks offered a used puck bag and jock strap, judging from the bristly John Davidson. He called it insulting.

Here is what I don't get with these GMs: They want to know if an offer is coming, and get a good deal instead. But if you are the one making the deal, you want the deal to be more favorable to the organization than the compensatory picks you are obligated to send in return for plucking a RFA. Also, while the Blues and their fans believe that they are paying a premium for David, it is the nature of the offer sheet that you have to overpay or otherwise the current rights owner will match every time! I simply don't get the "money is fine, but the trade offer we had issue with..." from JD, and I don't get the "We had no problem with the offer sheet, but the amount of money it contained..." from Brian Burke. No kidding you didn't like the trade. it was way less than the 2nd rounder Vancouver would have had to cough up. Backes was the 62nd pick, so it wasn't fair value. But what did you expect? A number 1? 2 number 2s? Get real! And the money...the sheet has to be big enough to dissuade you into considering the compensation coming back. It worked for Edmonton when they nabbed Dustin Penner (1st, 2nd and 3rd ronder), but not for Vancouver, because the lone pick (2nd rounder) wasn't as attractive as David Backes at an inflated salary.

The offer sheet has been used in the past. Joe Sakic and Federov both got them in the 90's with ridiculous signing bonuses. But they havn't been used like this, in the new CBA, a whole lot...yet. These GMs need to step back and simply look at these from the other end. Your job is to make the player and fiscal decisions for the club. Your counterpart has the same job, and if he can use the cap, and an offer sheet, or a lopsided trade to his advantage he will, and should, because thats his responsibility to his fans and owner. The JDs and Burkes of the world have to get used to this idea. Getting your hackles up because a rival caught you napping, like JD did getting Backes locked up, or with cap issues either now or down the road, as what happened to Burke, is both myopic and petty. If you stomp your feet now they'll be put over the fire if and when you put an offer sheet in. To feel self righteous now is pointless and self-serving, and you may just end up bathing in hypocrisy. This is the New NHL. Not only is the action better on the ice, the competition has moved up into the management offices. The GM's Gentlemen's Club may soon be faced with the reality that nice guys finish last.

UFA Day is here...Blues Plan "Fiscal Responsibility"

2008-07-01T09:47:00.002-05:00

While the Blues are beating their "Build from within" drum, a tune that looks to be a hit in the coming years, there are some interesting scenarios that could play themselves out.

The Blues will stay out of the top tier feeding frenzy to be sure. WIth the drafting of Peitrangelo we can all but discount the pursuit of any defenseman, from Campbell to Streit. Also out of the question is the small crop of top tier forwards, like Hossa, Rolston, Jagr, and Sundin. These big ticket guys just don't fit into the playbook, either by cost, term of contract, or fan base razzle dazzle.

But there are a few guys that could impact the Blues, at reasonable cost, and fit in for various reasons.

1) Markus Naslund: The shine has come off this once vaunted star, as it has his former linemates, Brendan Morrison and Todd Bertuzzi. He could be had for a steep discount compared to other scoring wingers on the market and cold find rejuvination in the Bluenote. I'd take a flyer on this guy in the 3.5 to 4 million range. No longer than 2-3 years.

2) Brendan Shanahan: Bringing back the old fan favorite would instanteously ingnite the fanbase. While 39 years old he can still put the biscuit in the basket, and last year only garnered 4 million. It would be summarily satisfactory to see the man that cost us 5 first rounders and Scott Stevens to come finish his career here. We missed that with Brett Hull, so how about Shanny?

3) Teemu Selanne: If he doesn't play for the Ducks, the next obvious choice would be St. Louis, wher both Andy McDonald and Paul Kariya are plying their trade. Even f he asked for a larger sum, in the 6-8 range, it would be a year contract and give the team some serious clout. While back in the fold for the playoffs, it gives the young guns a year to develop while still revving up the fan base. And Mr. Checketts, remember that each playoff home game nets you at least a million. I think Teemu could recoup half his salary by getting us there.

I'd galdly take any one of these three to supplement our youngsters while providing a much needed buzz about the team. Do I expect it? Not so much. But until noon today, I can dream, and play armchair GM.

Fun! Can't wait for the day's end...

Blues Draft Thoughts and David Backes

2008-06-24T08:30:00.002-05:00

Did anyone else raise an eyebrow when the Blues took Basil McCrae's boy in the early second round?

Learning from past mistakes, aka, drafting some tool named Scott Jackson while passing on Paul Stastny, doesn't exactly mean abstract extrapolations are neccesary either. McCrae has power forward potential, but he's been playing Jr. B. Not overwhelming stuff. He's years away.

Goaltender Allen, who backstopped the Canadians to a U-18 World Championship, looks like the real deal. A real nice goalie prospect to shore up the Blues stable was a must, as Marek Schwarz may be fizzling if he doesn't put it together this year. To make matters worse for MArek, he'll be splitting time with local boy Ben Bishop in that gem of a town on the Illinois River, Peoria.

Lehtora is a big bodied scandinavian that people thought was a great grab in the third round. I'd expect he's a couple of years out from making the skip across the big pond, but he could be a great sleeper, like a Zetterberg, that emerges as a Sundin or Selanne like force. Here's hoping...

David Backes

While the Blues try to figure out who exactly David Backes is, they also are working to lock him up. The problem is they don't know what their paying for. Emerging Power Forward akin to Bertuzzi in Vancouver or Hit-meister with a scoring touch in the mold of Darren MacCarty? I personally would gravitate to the former, because time and again I simply can'tbelieve how he gets behind the D so fast, and can control the corners with his big hits and big body. I think this is a clear cut case of needing to use Backes as the player you want him to become. If you keep identifying him and his role as a "checker" or "grinder" then he will play that role to a T. If you tel him he's a power forward and that he has to score, and place him with servicable linemates, then he will excel at that as well.

In order to maximize the assets like Backes and Stemper the Blues and Coach Murray need to rethink their line organization. Instead of the two scoring line, one checking, one grind line identity, its quite obvious the Blues, with their influx of young talent, need to reinvent themselves as a 3 scoring line, one defensive/check line team.

Because I adhere to the philosophy of needing a big man on every line I envision the Blues looking something like this:

Boyes, Tkchuk, Kariya-this line was on fire at the beginning of last season. With the new influx of young guns putting them back together makes sense.

Perron, McDonald, Oshie-I have a gut feeling about Oshie and Andy working well together and having McDonald center the line and do most of the puck carrying will minimize some overhandling that Perron insists upon.

Backes, Berglund, Stempniak-giving Stemper and Backes a talented setup man gives the Blues a bonafide third scoring line. Backes' forcheck, Berglund's passing and Lee's shot make a formiddable dynamic, not unlike the Mellanby, Demitra, Tkchuk line of yesteryear.

McClement, Stastny, Hinote-A strong checking line that has speed, grit, and the ability to chip in. While I would have taken Ryan Johnson back in a heartbeat, it looks as though he's moving on.

Really, there is no other way to beat the Detroits of the world without becoming them.

Blues take Pronger Clone, let Russian Dynamo pass by

2008-06-23T16:09:00.002-05:00

The Blues took Pietrangelo with their #4 pick, sending a wave of frustration and dismay over me as Nikita "The next russian superstar in the mold of Kovalchuk, Malkin, and Ovechkin" Filatov slipped down to the #7. There the Columbus Blue Jackets moved up to grab the soon-to-be-seat-filler, ensuring that while he won't don the Note, we'll see plenty of him. Perhaps too much.

It took me several minutes to digest what had happened. Why, why, why , why? Then as I stood back and looked at the broad picture I realized, despite various scouting opinions, that the Blues think he may get onto the big club this year. It also means they want to fix the transition game and PP quickly, though not hurried, and for good. EJ and Alex will remind us of Pronger and Al on the points. It could be awesome.

Still I felt a bit chapped that the Blues once again inexplicably passes on high end talent that can fill seats, and be entertaining enough in its own right should the team, say, fall apart in the second half.

I can't fault the organization for this choice. They were all good. And maybe its just the Filatov ended up on the damned Blue Jackets that has me so jaded. Regardless, if things pan out that both these players are who they've been projected to be, when the Blue Jackets come in town Filatov will have his work cut out for him agianst the Blues poweful D.

Prediction Time!

2008-06-20T10:57:00.004-05:00

After pouring over the various outlets I have come to the conclusion that the Blues can't possibly pass on Nikita Filatov.

If he's there at #4, he'll be a Note.

Hell Yeah.

You heard it here first.

Nice Filatov Video.

Update:

Over at Hockeybuzz they're talking Spezza or Jokinen to the Blues...If something like that were to happen I would imagine it would mean the Blues would send on their 1st pick...negating a chance at Filatov, but giving us quite the lineup of Pivotmen.

I'm really excited to see how this plays out!

Mayers Traded to Toronto, Blues get Backup Keeper

2008-06-20T10:05:00.002-05:00

JD and Larry Pleau have been wheeling and dealing the last 24 hours, making 2 separate deals.

First was the suprising trade of long time Blue and Dominic's favorite player, Jamal Mayers. Sent to his hometown of Toronto for a 3rd round pick, the Blues gain anothr nice middle round pick. In an odd twist this exact trade had been percolating steadily at the trade deadline during this season. It seemed the Blues would hold onto the speedy, tough winger/center, having passed on the opportunity to move him then and having him just finish the 1st year of his 3 year deal. I always considered Jamal a poor-man's Scott Young that could drop gloves. Speed up the wing and a big shot from the outside. Jamal's biggest shortcoming always seemed to be in executing his role as a checking line member. A perrenial resident at the bttom of the +/- stat line, he often eschewed his defensive duties for a mad dash up the wing or a over-aggressive forecheck when he had no support.

I wish Jamal the best it can be in the tumultuous Town of the Leaf. After spending his entire career here he may get a jolt, or even a shock to the system, playing for that dysfunctional franchise in that hoickey crazed town.

Mason to Blues!

In a strong move by JD and the gang the Blues have netted Predator's backup goaltender Chris Mason for a fourth rounder in tonight's draft. Chris dethroned incumbent Tomas Vokoun 2 seasons ago to claim the Pred's top spot only to have it taken away by upstart Dan Ellis this season. With the Preds now confident in Ellis as their tender Mason became expendable. The Blues get a very capable veteran backup presence behind Manny Legace, something they sorely missed last season.

I think these are both smart and strong decisions by the management over at Scottrade Center. Great work, and I'm getting geeked for tonight!

Thoughts on the Draft and Lee Stempniak

2008-06-18T11:26:00.002-05:00

The draft looms large as Friday fast approaches! Post-Dispatch Columnist, aka, Hockey Guy has a nice read on the Blues possibilities, and in which he concurs with me that Filatov is the man he likes best, and you can find it here.

Also, John Hadly, that mumbling rotunda of sports babble, had a nice interview with Jarmo Kekalainen the other night which was very informative, in which Jarmo said that the exchange with Russia would not be a factor in taking Filatov though his selection isn't a given, while Pleau talking on 550 with John Hadly, the mumbling rotunda of sports babble, agreed with my prior post, as he broke down the difficult transition for Andy McDonald and that he expects "we'll see the Andy of two years ago next season."

Lee Stempniak

A quick word on Lee's season:

I have made the argument before here and I'll make it again: Lee's production decline had infinitly more to do with how Coach Murray utilized him than anything else. I've abused and battered the concept that removing a young player from the key role he had a year prior to a tertiary postion was responsible for his "setback." Lee didn't play poorly by any means. He simply wasn't used as a top 6 top forward this year, after he had been a go to guy on the PP and a 1st/2nd line guy for more than half of the 2006-7 season. While Lee soldiered on in his diminished role AM, quizzically repeated that he needed more from him. I'm sure, like with Doug Weight, that struck a chord. Nothing spells frustrated like being put in the back seat and then being told you are doing a horrible job of driving.

Coach Murray, if you expect these guys to drive the team, you gotta cough up the keys to the car.

As I look on from afar and see the gaping holes in logic and hypocritical actions of this coach, I can only surmise that those closer, such as players, can only shake their head in frustration. Lee Stempniak's unflappable personality and new contract will prevent him from vocalizing this, but I get the sense that if these bizarre trends continue the Blues may soon be without the gravelly, catfish voice of Andy Murray contradicting himself at every turn.

Blues make a Deal

2008-06-11T11:56:00.006-05:00

The Blues made a trade with the LA Kings for former 2nd round pick and defenseman TJ Fast. The Blues sent a 5th rounder to the Kings for the WHL standout. Fast played in 71 games last year with a +29 rating and 54 points (17g, 37a). I imagine with the all but certain departure of Matt Walker and the expectation that Seve Wagner and Roman Polak will make the big squad this move is only to replenish Defensive depth at Peoria.

Andy McDonald

2008-05-28T11:49:00.002-05:00

Andy Mac as I call him or "Mickey D" as he is called in the locker room came to the Blues in a midseason deal that allowed the Anaheim Ducks to bring perennial all-star d-man Scott Niedermeyer back into the fold while sending long time Blues fan favorite and leader Doug Weight to the west coast.

After the lockout Andy came of age, turning into a top flight pivot man playing alongside Teemu Selanne in Orange County. When it was all said and done the Blues got a player entering his prime for one declining toward retirement.

Without Selanne by his side McDonald struggled to find a groove in Anaheim, playing with a revolving cast of youngsters on either side. After 33 games he had just 16 points (4g, 12a) to show for his efforts. His frustration was evident in his 30 PIM that he amassed in that same timeframe, 2/3 of his career high 46 set the year before.

When he arrived to the Blues I said "I love this trade, but I hate it because Dougie is gone." I had long lobbied that Weight should have been the Blues captain all year after putting the team on his back in the previous season's second half that saw Big Walt and Bill Guerin traded away, leaving Doug to steer a skeleton crew of youngsters.

With the Blues (49 games 14g, 22a)Andy's point production increased (from about .49/game to .73)greatly, though his plus minus suffered at the hands of the Blues porous defense and inept transition game. One can see how making the adjustment from the Ducks style of play to the Blues' could leave Andy Mac in the lurch. Not being a big man amongst few big men on the Blues he took a beating he was obviously not used to, casuing him to blow his PIM total to 62 for the year. His being in the box for opponents' power play tallies also adversely affected his +/-.

When looking forward I think we'll see the version of Andy Mcdonald of two seasons ago next year. The talk is for TJ Oshie to potentially start on the wing before being given the defensive responsibilities of an NHL center. I think the talented big body of TJ would do well working with ANdy to terrorize the opposition. TJ is a large sniper type player that can find space but also stickhandle. I think Andy would find him of a mold not unlike his former winger Selanne, with whom he enjoyed so much success.

Only time will tell how it plays out but I feel a full season in the Note will show us that "Mickey D" IS in fact a top centerman and that he IS in his prime.

Brad Boyes

2008-05-07T12:13:00.002-05:00

Brad Boyes, Brad Boyes
What ya gonna do, what ya gonna do
When he scores on you?
Brad Boyes, Brad Boyes...

My friend Ben Lambert and I came up with that nice little play on the infamous Inner Circle ditty and "Cops" theme song when Bad Brad started pounding goals in early and often this past season. Truth be told, I thought the trade that saw Dennis Wideman leave the Note and bring Boyes into the heartland was the most lospided trade since Mad Iron Mike Keenan stole Pavol Demitra from the Ottawa Senators for aged journeyman defenseman Christer Olsen. While Dennis did develop into a nice puck moving d-man and powerplay fixture for the playoff Bruins, Brad Boyes emerged as a monster offensive weapon for the Blues.

43 goals (good for 5th in the league), 22 assists for 65 points, including 11 powerplay tallys and 9 (wow!) game winners. Shocking that Boston would trade so quickly a man that posted 69 (stop you perv) points in his rookie year that included 26 goals. The Bruins were a moribound team in 06-07 and had Marc Savard on the shelf for most of the year, which one would assume management would take into account. Lucky for the Blues, and us fans, they didn't.

There is truly little negative in the play of Boyes to harp on. Of all Blues players that played in 40 or more games he is one of four (including Perron, McKee, and Stempniak) that finished with an even or better +/-. Due to his role as a finisher many overlook his solid stickhandling ability and great passing. But that will happen when Andy McDonald and Paul Kariya insit upon lasering passes in your wheel house. And man can this guy bury it! He found the twine with Kariya and Walt on his line and found it with McDonald as his centerman...he found it regardless. His whopping 20.8 shooting percentage is gaudy to say the least, making him the second most accurate shooter to only Dallas' Mike Ribeiro. That, ladies and gentleman, is what we call a sniper in this sport.

With Brad freshly inked to a new, and quite reasonable, 4 year deal for 16 million, all of us Blues fans can't wait for more of the same. I get giddy thinking about our talented wingers and the possibilities as TJ Oshie and Patrik Berglund join us down the middle...

All for now!

Keith Tkachuk

2008-04-11T12:12:00.002-05:00

Way back on January 18th I pointed out that Big Walt could, with a strong finish, get his 500th career goal.

Congratulations Keith! He captured The Big One in the Blues' season finale at Columbus, an empty netter, but a great accomplishment none the less.

A look back at the winger turned centerman's season:

27 goals, 31 assists for 58 points, good for 3rd in scoring and 2nd in goals on the offensively starved Blues. Any time a veteran forward can push 30 goals, he's earning his keep. A lot of people like to dog Keith, but realizing the difficulty in turning into a centerman, he still has done an admirable job. The key is understanding that given a center's defensive reponsiblities, Keith doesn't have the ability to camp in front of the net 5 on 5 like he used to. I'm hoping we see him move back to the left side next year as Oshie and Berglund come to man the center behind Andy MacDonald. Keith could easily get back to the 35 goal plateau playing with a true centerman.

Keith, along with the team as a whole, did get snake bit for a while, and I watched as routine defelections and one touch goals sailed wide of their mark for him during an agonizing month stretch from mid November to mid December. This 15 game goal scoring drought marked a time when Andy Murray broke up the Boyes-Kariya-Tkachuk line and started tinkering with 2nd and third line combinations in an effort to get Doug Weight and Lee Stempniak firing. Neither really did and Keith suffered for it.

To sum up, I beleive Keith Tkachuk to be a great veteran presence, a strong power forward on the wing and PP, and able centerman 5 on 5. His late career versatility really adds to his value. I know more than a few persons that don't care for Big Walt, but here he has a fan. Earnig 4 million a year, pushing 60 pts on an offensively stunted team, playing an unnatural position means he's earned his money more than the majority of this league. What I like most is the potential upswing in production next year when he can return to his wing. I'll make a bold predction for you doubting Thomas' out there: If Walt plays on the wing with MacDonald, Oshie, or Berglund as his Center, he will push for 40 goals next season.

Don't think so? What about the Line Combos of Boyes-MacDonald-Backes and Walt-Oshie-Kariya, and Stempniak-Berglund-Perron and R. Johnson-Mayers-Hinote sounds like we won't have more offense?

I'm already re-invigorating myself for next year!

Paul Kariya

2008-04-10T12:20:00.003-05:00

The much ballyhooed signing of Paul Kariya in the offseason gave many a Blues fan joy and optimism. I still remember the elated suprise I felt when I saw ESPN's bottom line crawl across the bottom of my TV screen with the news. I jumped, fist pumped, ran in a tight circle, all in silence because my girlfriend was still sleeping. It was a day where all the sudden the Blues were back, and they meant business.

Fast forward to today. The Blues are heading back to families or the golf course as the Stanley Cup Playoffs commence. An impressive first half is a distant memory, hardly seen in the rearview mirror. The second half collapse was a team issue, not a Paul Kariya issue. The issue at hand is that at 6 million USD a year, Paul Kariya was supposed to be That Guy. That Guy that made THE play. That Guy that got THAT goal. That Guy that stops a slide like an ace pitcher. That Guy that tiltsone goal games into the win column instead of the loss column. In the second half Paul, for many reasons, was unable to do so.

1) Paul got blasted a couple times sometime around game 35 and started playing personnally defensive. Stick up, to protect himself rather than holding the puck. It began his scoring woes.

2) Paul got used to setting up Brad Boyes rather than shooting himself. While easily the top passer on the team, Paul still has to be a shooter, and a scorer.

3) Paul was supposed to "help" the power play. The power play was one dimensional, without a point shot. Asking Erik Johnson to be that guy was too much too soon. The PP became flat and predictable with Barret Jackman and Eric Brewer unable to get pucks to the net with any mustard or regularity. Paul can take a PP to the next level, but you have to have the fundamental base first. The Blues asked him to bake bread with no yeast. What we got was hardtack. An obvious outcome given the ingredients.

4) Andy Murray's line shuffling did no one any favors. The wierd Mike Keenan like revolving door to the press box and line combos was, in my opinion, an unsettling habit. With Boyes, Kariya, and Tkchuk playing together for most of the first half they were torrid, and while the only scorers, were scoring enough to win. Once they were broken up and secondary scorers like Stempniak and Rucinsky didn't contribute, the writing was on the wall. One great line is better than 2 average lines any day.

So with 65 points, including 16 goals and 49 assists, Paul's inaugural campaign as a memebr of the note comes to a conclusion. Given the Blues power play woes, that total isn't bad. Had they had a bonafide pointman Paul could have easily touched 80 points. He was only 11 points off his mark last year playing with better talent and a top end PP. The key moving forward is that I want Paul tofeel empowered. I want Paul to shoot. His campaigns in which he netted 35-45 goals he took over 300+ shots. One year over 400. This year he only had 223. That is probably more indicative of the limted time the Blues spent in the offensive zone, but I will point out that is wasn't until the end of the year that we saw Paul and his patented scream up the boards to the monster shot around or through a defenseman. He simply was not of a mind to be the man. Most telling was Kariya's solitary game winning tally. That Guy has to have more than that. That Guy is clutch. Well he's not longer The New Guy so hopefully next year Paul Kariya is That Guy.

Blues Will Pick Fourth @ 2008 Draft

2008-04-09T11:13:00.004-05:00

With the Draft lottery completed on Monday, the earliest the NHL has ever completed it, the non-playoff teams will get a much needed jump start on their scouting missions. Knowing where one's picks lie in the draft makes it inestimably easier to project who will be available and target a player or groups of players for scouting beforehand. Good luck to Jarmo Kekalainen and his staff. We need you to come up aces!

While the Blues missed out on Steve Stamkos, the draft is a deep talent pool this year. As I see it, the Blues will be left with a choice between Filatov, the talented Russian winger whom scouts say does not possess the attitude and work ethic questions that plague many Russki prospects, or Meiers, the 6-7 American born Zdeno Chara, that has huge upside, but is much rawer than the two defenseman slated to go 2 and 3, Doughty and Bogosian.

I vote for the Filatov. The defensive situation is starting to calm down. Eric Brewer will have his shoulder fixed this off-season. Jackman looked better at the end of the season. Matt Walker seems all but gone. Polak, Wagner and Micki Dupont will vie for roster positions. Eric Johnson will be another year improved. Much improved. Despite moving Bryce Salvador and Christian Backman the Blues are still teeming with NHL ready D-men. While the defensen available in this draft look like potential cornerstones, I think adding the Russian sniper to a young stable of offensive talent is the proper choice. He'll join TJ Oshie, Patrick Berglund, Lars Ellers and David Perron as the next generation of Blues forwards.

Jay McKee may be dangled as trade bait. If we were able to offload McKee's contract the only real top tier free agent I see the Blues gunning for is Brian Campbell. Both JD and AM reiterated time and again how the defense's inability to quickly transition the puck out of our own zone may have been the weak link in the Blues offense. He'd be another great guy for Johnson, Wagner, and DuPont to learn from. Other than that need, with all the young bucks looking to take roster spots I don't see the Blues gunning for another marquis forward. I think they'll bank some cap space (the Blues will shed some 11 million in payroll this offseason with known departures)and if the youngsters are performing will be in a position to add come deadline time.
Though if I might suggest it, Pavol Demitra would be a great 2nd line winger for Oshie and playing with Keith. Then AM can have Berglund in between Stemper and Perron.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: With both Paul Kariya and Andy McDonald here do you think a strong pitch by the Blues would be recieved by Treemu Selanne?

I'm going to break down the roster player by player and give a review and predict their future perfomance and status with the Blues.

All for now!

Road Warriors come back Beaten, Bruised, face Detroit tonight at Scottrade

2008-03-25T13:03:00.002-05:00

Well, its been awhile since I got on here...The last week and a half have seen 2 birthdays, my girfriends parents come into town and a myriad of late west coast and Canandian games that all created a compendium of circumstance not really conducive to me cathcing all the games or even a full one. I've, of course have caught what I could, a period here, there, maybe a couple. What I've got to admit is that this essentially has to be looked at as a learning experience as we move toward the free agency period and further on to next season. I hope you all bear with me.

Hawks

Eric Brewer said it all, "We found a way to lose..." Indeed. I had no sooner finished my victory dance after Keith Tkchuk had buried a breakaway goal, giving the Note a 3-2 lead with a minute remaining, than James Wisneiwski hammers a puck over 2 sliding Blues defenders and past a screened Hannu Toivonen. I'm not going to lie, I thought immediately "they blew it." I had hoped we might score in OT, but the reality of the Blues OT record up to that point (0-7) and their shootout record (3-4) lent to the idea that if we survived overtime we had Hannu, and not Manny, in net for the shootout. Against even an aged Khabibulin, it was tilted decidely against us.

Eric Brewer continues to confound. His repetition of easily rectifiable mistakes is inexcusable. High of the glass should be his mantra, even if there is only one opponent forechecking. Get Murray Baron to be his personal coach on this.

Jay McKee can do great things in the defensive zone, just so long as it has nothing to do with the puck being on his stick. I hold my breath and wait for the limp pass to inexplicably handcuff a winger, or bounce awkwardly near their skates, or simply not make it there. For a man of his size I have never seen such feeble command of basic puck control skills. What part of his 200+ lb frame is propelling that puck? How can he not complete a pass to tape, or not learn to keep the puck flat in the process? His ability to take a perfectly still puck and send it rolling, bouncing or wobbling to its recipient is astounding to say the least.

David Perron needs to seriously improve AWAY from the puck. Take care of his own end first, and chances will come to him. He needs to understand that he does not have an electric collar that will shock him if he comes below his own blue line.

With each passing game, I like Ryan Johsnon and David Backes more and appreciate Jay McClement less.

Lee Stempniak's numbers decline have more to do with how Andy Murray utilized him early on than anything he's done. He had 3rd line ice time, and 2nd line, at best PP time following a season where he had 1st unit PP time and 2nd line ice time. Lst year nearly half of his 27 goals came on the PP. He wasn't going to replicate that in his new "role". Remebering that both Bill Guerin and Keith Tkchuck were traded away (Keith early) and Marty Rucinsky was out with an injury at the end of the year which left Lee and Doug Weight carrying the team. Stupidity is is doing the same thing over and expecting different results. Conversely, doing something different and expecting the same results carries the same distinction. Andy Murray insured that Lee would not match his previous benchmarks.

Tonight

The Blues look to salvage fan support as they wrap up their final 3 home games in the coming week. The Blues have played Detroit tough this year, and having been on the road so long, I'm sure they'll be fired up. I'm expecting an energetic showing from the note.

Big Walt Countdown

496 goals. 4 more to 500, 7 games remaining.

Looking Ahead

Not sure if anyone caught the article in the Post today about Hawks' coach Dennis Savard complaining about after the whistle scrums, calling out Barret Jackman for taking liberties and questioning David Backes' toughness. Both fired back, and AM even sounded off. I'm really liking that this old rivalry seems to be re-emerging as Dennis has sown the seeds for a real clash on Saturday! If you can get tickets for that one, I would go, cause I can promise there will be fireworks.

More tommorrow!

Perron: Man On Fire

2008-03-12T11:32:00.002-05:00

David Perron Shines in OT Loss

A month ago Blues rookie defenseman Erik Johnson had himself a game against the Chicago Blackhawks that told everyone, Blues fans and otherwise, that he had arrived. As Blue'c coach Andy Murray stated, "He played like a man tonight..."

Last night in Edmonton, David Perron put the league, and Blues fans, on notice. He commanded the puck, made almost every player on the Oilers squad miss him multiple times, set up teammates, sliced, diced, chopped and initiated it all. Its obvious that witht the permanent benching of Marty Rucinsky that Blues management took Perron aside and told him "its your time. Show us what you got." A look at what we saw last night.

Moves: His stick handling is fast and uses powerful, dramatic arm motions and can elude defenders moving forward or a standstill if they fail to take his body. His penchant for hard cut backs and stickhandling from a near stop on the half boards mean that he forces himself to stickhandle more than he should as he negates his speed. David will hopefully combine his skating ability with his hands and attack the D like Alex Ovechkin rather than allowing them to come to him and forcing himself to beat them.

Skating: When he gets a head of steam he can really go, but to often his one on one maneuvers and dangling prevent him from moving consistently at his top speed.

Shot: He's got a quick release and deadly accurate wrister. If he strengthens up some more and can generate a slap shot he'll be a nightmare for defensemen and goaltenders alike when he knifes into the middle and lets it rip.

Passing: For a guy that showed us last night an impressive ability to beat 1 or 2 opponents and draw defenders to him, Perron could look to pass first and set up a multitude of goals. When he beats a man (or 2) he draws the other defnders out of position, usually leaving at least one of his team mates open. While I know by nature he's a shooter, rounding out this part of his game would exponentially increase the offensive output of whatever line he plays on. In last nights contests he beat 2 Oiler players on the boards and with Brewer and McDonald in front elected to take his own shot to which the tender was square. He's young, and he'll learn.

Vision: More and more, when he does pass you see that he can really see the ice. If he makes some of these passes a moment (or dangle) sooner many more will get through.

Physical: He's not shy about contact or going to a traffic area, however he simply needs to put more bulk on his frame and strength in his legs. Strong legs will at least let him plant and use body position, while bulking up on top will at a new dimension to his game.

Blues nation, I give you David Perron.

Blues get Burnt by Flames, Free Falling

2008-03-11T14:18:00.002-05:00

Last nights game was brutal.

After Manny Legace was sat after the 1st period, Hannu "What do you mean cut down the angle?" Toivonen coughed up 2 soft goals, and the Blues coasted through the rest of the game. It was abysmal, and for my part, not worth reliving.

TIDBITS:
Keith Tkchuk left the game in the second period and did not return after colliding with Jay Mckee and jamming his shoulder. He is expected to be out tonight versus Edmonton. Still standing pat at 494 career goals.

Despite reports otherwise Martin Rucinksy played, but only because Yan Stastny has come down with strep. Marty actually play with the most spirit I've seen since his first stint with the Blues. And therein lies the problem. He had to get sent to the pressbox for his pride to show up.

TSN is reporting that the NHL is working on a deal to have next years Winter Classic outdoor game at Yankees Stadium. Yankees stadium is to be destroyed after the coming baseball season ends, but the NHL is working on a deal to have their New Years Day event be the last in the historic building. That, would be AWESOME!

Rucinsky Shelved!!!

2008-03-10T11:52:00.002-05:00

At long last...

Don't know if any of you guys caught it, but Jeremy Rutherford is telling Blues fans that Martin Rucinsky will likely finish the season off in the pressbox. Having not won and with no one scoring its come down to sitting the aged veteran and getting David Perron the time he needs.

Ive been advocating this for some time now and I'm glad that this move has finally been made. Now hopefully the next 14 games will allow Perron to figure out the fine art of body positioning...

ALSO:

JR also has alerted us to the little known fact that a player over the age of 21 who signs a pro contract and plays in any game will be booked for a whole season. Because of this rule we won'e see TJ Oshie this season, who turned 21 in December. The Blues aren't willing to sacrifice a year of entry level pay and push him toward RFA/UFA status a year early just to see him play in 2-4 games this season...

Blues Hope to Estinguish Flames on Road

2008-03-10T11:20:00.002-05:00

As the Blues head into game 3 of their season long 9 game road trip they look to play spoiler against playoff bound Calgary. Calgary has recently been ailed by the same bug that has afflicted the Blues for much of the second half, a sputtering offense. However, the Flames ahave still managed to turn low scoring affairs into Wins and points with strong goaltending, a rabid penalty kill, and all around good team defense.

While the Blues bring those same qualities most of the time they break down more often and more completely than a team like Calagary. However, facing off against a team having difficulty finding the back of the net would be an excellent opportunity for the Blues to kick start this road trip, gain some positives and some points out of the remaining contests, and return home for an entertaining finish and good crowds. Like in "What about Bob?" we have to move forward from here using Baby Steps!

TIDBITS

Big Walt's Waltz to 500: Keith sits at 494 goals after failing to tally against Vancouver. He needs 6 in the remaining 14 games to become the 41st member of this exclusive club that saw Jeremy Roenick surpass the mark earlier this season. Andy Murray...get it done!!!

The Blues continue to sit in the 14th spot in the West and currently would have the #3 pick in this years draft (giving them a 10.7% chance at winning the 1st pick in the draft lottery).

The Maine Blackbears' NCAA hockey season has ended, and Maine goaltender and Blues Prospect and local product Ben Bishop is elegible to sign as of today. We may see him soon!

TJ Oshie should be close behind, but still must play out the NCAA Tourney.

Manny Legace wants to play every game the rest of the way. If he does he will set a new career high for games played and finish one game shy of the franchise record 73 set by Grant Fuhr in 1996-97.

Manny also says he no longer thinks he'll need off-season surgey on his right knee.

What 4?

2008-03-05T16:01:00.002-06:00

I'm going to throw this out there, and let me finish before you freak out...

The Blues should sandbag their season. Now don't tank it completely. Just try to be a .500 club at the end.

Why would I, a bonified Blues zealot, want this. Because it will haelp us win the Stanley Cup, and possessing the zeal inherent in all zealots, I will undertake any recourse to accomplish our goal.

So the Blues currently sit in 13th in the West. There are 5 teams in the east with equal or lesser paoint totals in the standings. We essentially sit on the 6th pick in this very deep, very talented 2008 entry draft as it all sits today.

We give just a bit, and we have a chance for the #1. We won't catch LA and Tampa for foulest performance of the year, but the NHL draft lottery has some quirks. Lottery determines the order of the last 14 teams (all non-playoff teams) in the league. The kicker is that no team can move up more than 4 spots from their place of finish and no one can drop back more than 2 spots.

So the Blues have to finish as one of the bottom 5 teams in either conference to have a shot at the #1 pick. It worked out for Chicago last year, who moved from 5th to 1st and grabbed Patrick Kane.

Here's how the last 5 teams breaks down percentage wise for a shot at #1:

30th: 25%
29th: 18.8%
28th: 14.2%
27th: 10.7%
26th: 8.1%

Consensus #1 pick Steve Stamkos awaits!

Blues End Skid

2008-03-05T13:15:00.005-06:00

Hope you all enjoyed my stream of consciousness in the previous post!

I headed to the game a tad tardy, realizing that it wasn't on TV, hoofing it over from my place on Washington Avenue in downtown to the Kiel Center.

Grabbing a cheap-seat ticket, I found myself just a few rows from the front of the mezzanine. The 7.5" of snow had kept the crowds away. Or it could have been the 6 consecutive losses. Who's to tell?

Some thoughts about the game:

The PP stank last night. Aside from one half of one PP opportunity they were ineffective at setting it up and getting good chances. Of all the teams to find success against, LA was probably it.

I know I'm beating a dead horse, but Martin Rucinsky is going through the motions out there. The only time he gives anything is either when the puck is put on his stick or on the PP, and even with the man advantage his puck pursuit leaves more than just a little to be desired. Why not just sit him the rest of the way and get a Linglet or Glumac up here from Peoria? Even a Kariya Brother's Circus would be fun.

Keith Tkchuk scored #494...6 more to the Big 500.
He esily could be at 495 with his breakaway opportunity in the 2nd period, but he ripped his snapper well over the bar. Note to Walt: why not try that power move of yours on a Breakaway, rather than when you try to take it through the slot with 2 defenders between you and the net? Just an idea, think about it. The goal he did score was a nice one, vintage Walt all the way.

Matt Walker should NOT be re-signed. Ever since he stepped into a more prominent role with the departure of Backman and Salvador his mistakes have become glaring and well, more prominent. He was personally responsible for the 1st goal, making an ill advised pinch-in attempt, and then watching as the puck went the other way on an odd man break. Its another in a long list of transgressions. His departure could add another 600k to the Blues' off season budget.

Jay McClement seems to be becoming more and more insignficant each game. I would ALMOST put money on the Blues passing on qualifiying this RFA.

The Blues begin their dreaded 9 game road trip tonight at Detroit. Could be a rough start to a rough trip if the Blues keep struggling to score goals. 3 goals against the West's worst team does not reverse their recent trends on offense.

Cross your fingers and pray to the hockey gods because these road warriors are going to need all the help they can get on this upcoming journey.

Ryno Charges Blues to Win

2008-03-05T09:12:00.002-06:00

The know-nothings in the crowd yelled. Some Booed. "Move it!" "What are you DOING?!" "IDIOT1!"

I shook my head, Its called setting up the break out you morons, I thought to myself. No sooner had I completed the thought than Jay McKee stepped out to the his left of the goal cage, and sent an easy but brisk pass to Jamal Mayers on the sideboards. LA was sitting back, waiting. Flatfooted. Jamal sent an rocket area pass to the far side that eluded the outstretched arms and sticks of pylon LA defenders and came right to the blazing Ryan Johnson. My mind blurted, He scored a cut in goal from there not to long ago... He dipsy-dooed around another sprawling defender...I watched him cut right in on top of the tender, go sailing through the air. A moments delay. The far end of the stadium, those that had seen the puck slide throught the goaltenders pads to the back of the net, jumped. The red light flashed. Our end exploded. Ryan Johnson, game winner.

Big Ups 2 Benny and the Tritons

2008-03-04T13:51:00.004-06:00

A huge congratulations goes out from this corner of cyberspace to The University of Missouri-St. Louis Roller Hockey Team for their recent Great Plains Regional Championship, earned with a 6-4 victory over perenial powerhouse Lindenwood University.

The architect of this team, Ben Lambert, and longest tenured member of the Triton's squad has seen this program through from turmoil, to a DII national title in '04 (that I shared with him), and now a DI (first year with the big boys!) regional Championship.

Ben and teammate Aaron "Dutch" Schulz both play on our Lake Forest ice hockey team. Fellow Lake Forester Ryan Marchand's father, Chris is the UM-St. Louis Coach, who claims the regional title in his first year after being lobbied and brought aboard by none other than Ben Lambert.

More Big Ups to my ex-teammates:

Big Ups to Ben Lambert, the man with the master plan.
Big ups to Adam Clarke, who wears the "C" so well.
Big Ups to Doug Purk, who I still owe 65 bucks to.
Big Ups to Jason Shields, head of the Cajun Invasion.
Big Up to Tom Ames, and his frickin' huge pads.
Big Ups to James Cash, who I played against and ran many a time!

And to the new guys I know:
Big Ups to Aaron Schulz, The Dutchman kills.
Big Ups to Jeremy Scott, the power is in the beard.
Big Ups to Eric Thompson, the kid can handle the puck and his booze.

Last but not least, Big Ups to to the Wizard of Oz, the man behind the curtain, "The Professor" James Lambert, Ben's brother and president of the Triton's Roller Hockey team. So smart it hurts to talk to him. Really. And he's a communist. But I digress...

Congrats again guys, and good luck in Colorado Springs, CO at Nationals!

Blues Shutout; Ink Boyes; LA 2-nite

2008-03-04T11:14:00.002-06:00

Saturday was a game we'd all like to get. The Blues were unable to muster even a single goal against journeyman tender and recent free agent signee Brian Boucher in their tilt versus San Jose. Thats right, that impenetrable wall was not Evgeni "No-no" Nabokov, but a guy that hasn't played since March 3rd of last year.

My soul shudders.

BOYES SIGNS 4 YEARS @ 4 Mil Per

Congrats to Brad Boyes on his new deal. While I have no problem with this signing, I find it very peculiar that many who lambasted Oilers GM Kevin Lowe for his RFA offer sheet to Dustin Penner last season (4 years at 4.25/year) aren't up in arms over this one as well. These are very similar contracts to same age players with very similar stat lines.

Lets compare:

Boyes 06-07: 81 gp 17g 29a 46pts
07-08: 65 32 15 47
New Contract: 16 mil over 4 years-2.5 mil, 5 mil, 4.5 mil, 4 mil.

Penner 06-07: 82 29 16 45
07-08: 66 18 21 39
Contract: 17 mil over 4 years-4.25 mil each year

Boyes has been playing with the Blues top line all year, while penner was playing with moribound center Jarret Stoll at the outset, and shortly after moving up to the top line with Ales Hemsky and Shawn Horcoff, saw Horcoff go down for the season.

So why is no one batting an eyelash at this signing? Again, I didn't care that Lowe made these offer sheets, they are fair game. Was it the offer sheet aspect that raised so many people's hackles? Had it been structured with smaller monies up front and be backloaded, would that have calmed some nerves? Would they not think Penner was overpaid then?

The only difference I can identify is that Boyes has 3 years NHL experience. His rookie campaign saw him net a still career high 69 pts. Penner's entry level time was spent at the minor league level.

I find it amusing that this signing glides so gently under the radar. Granted we didn't have to give up draft picks for our RFA as Edmonton did, but much ado was not made of the compensation, but rather the terms of the deal. Perhaps it is the difference between being a Canadian franchise or not. Is the microscope so much more powerful north of the border?

Kudos to Larry and JD for locking up Boyes here long term. I think he'll crack 45-50 goals before his shiny new contract expires. I also like how his salary next season is only 2.5, leaving quality budget room for an impact UFA signing.

Lets Recap the salary situation come free agency (not cap, but salary) :
Rucinsky off the books: 3 million
Cajanek (forgot we were paying him didn't you?): 2 million
Salvador: 1.3 million
Backman: 3.4 million
Ryan Johnson: 800k (I'd take him back)
Mike Johnson: 750k

Total freed salary: 11.25 million.

A look at the cheap plug-ins we have available:
TJ Oshie
Patrick Berglund
Steve Wagner
Roman Polak
Micki Dupont

Say Hello, Marian Hossa!

Blues vs. Kings @ Scottrade:

No TV tonight, so go find a friend with Center Ice!

The Blues look to end their losing streak to the team that initiated it some 6 games ago.

Starting Netminder Jason Labarbera is injured for the Kings, so we may get a look at rookie Erik Ersberg. Will the Blues be able to solve the greenhorn?

Dan Hinote is still out with a hip injury.

The Blues have allowed 2 goals or less in 10 of their last 12.

They have not scored more than 1 in their last 6.

Break out a chicken and your crystal ball and use all the santaria and voodoo you know to lift this offensive curse!

Come on Blues!

Blues score 1, Lose; Lake Forest Rolls to Win

2008-02-29T12:32:00.001-06:00

Truth be told I wasn't able to catch much of the game, as Lake Forest had a game last night at 7:30 as well. As big a fan as I am I will hands down play over watching a game any day of the week.

By the time our Lake Forest squad had efficiently banked a 9-3 victory over TKSputters the Blues were already down 2-1, notified by the lobby tv at Brentwood Ice Rink. I shook my head and a let out a gasp of exasperation. We might get 2, but 3 goals was fantasy.

And that is the reality we Blues fans face at what is supposed to be the most exciting time of the season, sans playoffs. Right now these guys couldn't find twine if they were fishing. Seriously its gone past frustrating to comic. What we have here is a full blown travesty.

Coyotes' netminder Ilya Bryzgalov turned aside 41 shots on goal. The only Blue to successfully navigate Ilya's apparently labrynthine padding would be the tertiary (and thats generous) scoring threat Ryan Johnson.

On another note, the Cam Janssen highlight montage was really unneccessary. Are JD and Co. so shameless?

Needless to say going into Saturday's matchup against San Jose the outcome may well be a foregone conclusion. I'm guessing we score 1 goal. How many we let up, thats where we get our intrigue now.

LAKE FOREST
Lake Forest emerged triumphant last night for its 3rd win in its last 4 games.
The 9-3 win was kickstarted by a five goal 1st period and strong goaltending early from Dave Lauter.
All 3 lines contributed on offense, with the highlight of the evening going to Dave "Sharpie" Sharp as he tallied the lone 3rd period goal for Lake Forest on a breakaway. Dave tipped the puck at his own blue line over the defender's stick, then bolted up the middle of the ice, froze the opposing netminder in the slot and picked the upper left corner.

In the words of Sharpie himself: "Nice one, son..."

Coyotes on the Prowl @ Scottrade

2008-02-28T10:54:00.008-06:00

The Blues look to halt a 4 game skid as Wayne Gretzky's Coyotes come calling tonight. The Blues seek revenge, and offense, after the Yote's blanked the Blues 2-0 in Phoenix 2 games ago. The Blues have scored only 3 goals in thier last 4 games, and after a brief power surge on the man advantage have regressed yet again. The Blues are 1-7-1 against the Coyotes in their last 9 meetings. Yote newcomer Marcel Hossa should be in the lineup as well as [sarcasm]fan favorite[/sarcasm] Cam janssen for the Blues.

The Blues, while not mathmatically eliminated from playoff contention, have slipped into standings purgatory at 12th, tied with Chicago (though still only 6 pts out). Andy Strickland of Hockeybuzz has reported that we can expect to see Erik Johnson, Woywitka, and Yan Stastny will play for Peoria in the AHL playoffs. If that doesn't seem to indicate how management sees this season winding down, I don't know what else could tell you the Blues are waving the white flag. Well maybe if they had traded Bryce Salvador for nothing...oh wait.

Food for Thought:

While at several times I have noted Paul Kariya's tenderness and that he has at times "seemed scared" Andy Strickland, consumate Blues aficionado, blogger, and Blues company man, really lays into him in this post: http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=13752

Andy, IMO tows a company line, and his use of the phrase "that being said" to distance himself from all his own criticsms I find distasteful, though in this is not far from the mark about how Kariya has fared this season. He almost calls him a bust, and a softy, and a shill...'but that being said'...
Strickland offers further insult by noting that Paul and his brother Martin are in a goals race. Martin has 13 at Peoria to Paul's 15 with the Blues.

Strickland also states that the Blues could have gotten a 3rd round pick for Bryce instead of Janssen, but "thought a roster player was the best way to go." I'm losing hair. There goes another one.

Martin Rucinsky also garnered interst, but the Blues decided not to move him. For a guy brought in to play with Doug Weight, they sure have their claws into this guy. I would have taken ANY pick for him (Zetterberg was a 6th rounder, and with Jarmo manning the draft table, the Blues are finally making use of late round picks).

That makes 2 draft choices the Blues won't have this summer. What happened to stockpiling assets?

Jeremy Rutherford has a nice piece on stltoday.com giving much needed insight into the repeated scratching of rookie sniper David Perron. One instance given came against the Yotes where Perron laid a hit and skated away wholesale from the ensuing scrum. I actually noticed this as I watched the game and had intended to make mention of it here, but as I don't take notes and drink after every Blues loss I overexposed my photographic memory.

Despite my angst over the Bryce Salvador trade, the Blues truly still ahve a chance to steal a postseason berth. They have games in hand on everyone above them but Chicago, who has played an equivalent 63 games. They have one in hand on Phoenix, and 2 on Columbus, Colorado, and Nashville.

Over the last 10 games the only team to do better than the Blues (4-3-3) is the Chicago Blackhawks (7-2-1). Nashville and Columbus are playing scratch hockey at 4-4-2 while Colorado and Phoenix are a game below .500 at 4-5-1. The Blues missed some valuable opportunities to move forward, but amongst these teams, certainly have not fallen back.

Blues depleted D can't hold lead vs. Big D

2008-02-27T11:07:00.002-06:00

The Blues got off to another torrid start...and they actually got a goal in the 1st period. Alas, it would be their only goal of the game, and as the contest wore on the Blues were turned aside time and time again. Then the Stars shone in the 3rd frame, exposing a depleted defensive unit.

The first Stars' goal found Loui Eriksson all by himself at the back post for a simple redirect of a Mike Ribeiro feed.

The second, again set up by Ribeiro, had Jay Mckee hesitate to force hi in the corner, and then bend over at the waste and lay his stick on the ground like an ankle bending street hockey player. A quick saucer was one-timed by an unchecked Jere Lehtinen who labeled the upper right corner.

The last, and most egregious goal against, came as Matt Walker took the wrong side of the ice backing into the zone, effectively setting a pick on his defensive partner and letting Eriksson step around both of them into the middle for a screened hard wrister to the top shelf. Walker had blown coverage on the first goal as well.

I'm not saying that keeping Salvador wins this game for the Blues, however these defensive miscues may have been avoided with Sal gobbling up ice time. On the flip side, more pucks finding the twine could've halted the Stars' rally at any point.

But hey, Cam Janssen, our 'Hometown Savior' will be here soon. I'm sure he'll rectify at least one of the glaring problems. Isn't that right, John Davidson?

TIDBITS:

Keith Tkchuck scored on the 1st shot of the game to notch goal 493. At least we still have that (500) to look forward to.

Aren't we all glad Brad Richards didn't play last night?

"We've had 113 shots (in our last 4 games) and we have three goals to show for it," Blues coach Andy Murray said. "It's frustrating. It's disappointing." >No Kidding! Did you ask your boss why he didn't address that issue? At least we can look forward to more unwarranted penalties on top of Kariya's constant hich sticks, Rucinsky's hooking, and Jackman and Brewer's fabled "reach arounds" when Janssen arrives. Can you smell what the Blues are cooking? Golf. And a lottery draft pick.

Perron did not play yet again. But at least Yan Stastny was on a scoring line with Boyes...nevermind.

At this point I look forward to TJ Oshies debut after the NCAA tournament. He'll probably be available for the last 5-7 games, unless the Fighting Souix go the distance.

Lake Forest Ice Hockey Takes on the TKSputters tommorrow @ 7:30. Going for our 3rd win in last 4 games to climb into a BHL playoff spot!

Backman to Rangers

2008-02-26T14:00:00.003-06:00

The Blues have traded Christian Backman to the NY Rangers for a 4th round pick,

That clears Backman's 3.4 million due next year from the books.

I had stated in an earlier post that the Blues had to get rid of a big defense contract, but never thought anyone would grab Backman. I even suggested a buyout!

Glen Sather to the rescue!

Solid move, but doesn't make up for giving away Bryce for nothing. If you can get a 4th rounder for Christian Backman...

Blues had by Sweet Lou in NJ

2008-02-26T12:01:00.003-06:00

Looking at the Salvador for Janssen trade I looked into comps, like a real estate agent looking to price a listing. Here is what I found:

Jaroslav Modry-3rd round pick
Jim Vandemeer-3rd round pick
Wade Belak-5th round pick
Ruslan Salei-Karlis Skrastins and a 3rd round pick
Adam Fotte-Cond'l 1st round pick and another pick if he resigns

Now, as I see it, having perennial draft genius Jarmo Kekelainen manning the draft board means that rather than add yet another banger to our stable (we did that even though we were told and all lip service was given to adding "scoring") that I would have much rather had a 3rd or 4th rounder in one of the next two very deep drafts for JK to run with. Looking at the names above, I find it hard to believe that a draft pick deal for the very affordable, tough and seldom injured Bryce Salvador wasn't available.

3 Big Moves

2008-02-26T10:57:00.003-06:00

Campbell has been moved by Buffalo to San Jose for winger Steve Bernier and a 1st rounder.

Tampa has traded Brad Richards and goalie Johan Holmqvist to the Stars for goalie Mike Smith and forwards Jeff Halpern and Jussi Jokinen.

Christobel Huet has been shipped to Washington for a 2nd round pick. Kolzig and/or Brent Johnson are on notice.

Additional Reaction to Sal moving on

2008-02-26T10:55:00.000-06:00

Food for thought:
The big deal being made about Janssen being from St. Louis has me irked. JD and Co. came in calling everyone "assets" and "personal companies" and now they flip the script and want to sell this trade by personalizing it witht his "St. Louis kid makes good" story. I'm familiar with Cam and his rise through the local hockey scene and beyond, but I think its grossly unfair and hypocritical to cite his roots and declare him an "instant fan favorite" to put positive spin on this deal. The bottom line is that we are a worse team than we were an hour ago.

Salvador a Devil

2008-02-26T10:35:00.006-06:00

Bryce Salvador is a New Jersey Devil as of this morning. The Blues ship their team leader in +/- to New Jersey for Cam Janssen, a tough winger that happens to be a St. Louis native.

Cam Janssen's career NHL #s: 95 gp, 1 g, 0a, 1pt, -5, 205 PIM

Reaction:

I'm shocked. If we couldn't get more than this I'm appalled. We would have been better to hold onto Bryce for the remainder of the season. He's only making 1.3 million this year, and has been our defensive stalwart all season.

These recent moves have my mind reeling. We still need to move Jay McKee, and this only makes sense if Ryan Johnson or Dan Hinote are getting shipped off.

Lets look at the number of 3rd/4th liners or "energy guys" the Blues now have:

Jamal Mayers
Dan Hinote
Ryan Johnson
Jay McClement
Cam Janssen
DJ King
Backes (the hitmeister blows opponents up without taking the penalties)

After doing so much so well last season, the beginning of this day has my blind faith starting to focus. I think we have to wait til the end of the day before we start forming conclusions and giving JD, Larry, and Al a grade, but right now I'm tepid towards their moves.

Rumour: Pens eyeing Jay?

2008-02-26T08:42:00.002-06:00

The Pittsburg Penguins reportedly are kicking the tires on the big shot blocker.

This would make a lot of sense with Barret Jackman having been signed yesterday.

Lightning send Vaclac Prospal to Philly

2008-02-25T21:33:00.002-06:00

And Dan Boyle resigns with the Bolts, 6 years for 40 mil.

Philly sends Alex Picarde,a puck moving D-man much like Boyle, who is 2nd on Philly's AHL affiliate (Phantoms) in scoring. Also the lightning recieve a conditional 2nd or 3rd round pick.

Jackman Inks 4 years @ 3.6 per

2008-02-25T21:23:00.003-06:00

My initial reaction is "Whaaa?!" Like a drunk at the bar when a barstool goes down hard. I had to double take the name, because I thought FOR SURE we were keeping Bryce Salvador. Maybe we are. The only way that happens is if Jay Mckee or some other albatross contract moves onward. Who are those guys...lets look:

Keith Tkchuk: 1st of 2 year deal at 4.5 per. Still good for 20 goals and 60+ pts each year, not going anywhere.

Eric Brewer: 3 left at 4.25 per. Just named Captain. He's stationary.

Christian Backman: 1 year left at 3.4 mil. You'd have to be an idiot to pick this guy up for this kinda money...unless you need a body on D and are getting rid of a much larger one, like say, Brad Richards...

Jay McKee: 2 years left at 4 per. Got overpaid to come to last place team. Has value but Blues may have to take some salary back.

Those are just the big contracts that you could throw around. Kariya and McDonald aren't going anywhere.

Off the books next year are Hinote, Ryno, Rucinsky, Salvador, Mike Johnson...

If we clear some more salary I don't hate this move...right now I'm a little perplexed and a lotta baffled.

Well, to put it bluntly, between Sal and Jackman I take Sal any day. Big, and hard nosed without the BS penalties. Its not like Jackman has either the points or the +/- to warrant signing him over Sal. If anything that points back to Sal. Jackman's biggest statistic is his 63 PIM. The problem is that he takes them cause HE HAS TO. I just commented a couple posts ago how it was great to see him play with the edge without his parade of shame to the sin bin.

I'm really expecting (hoping) this is the first act that sets something else up.

Forberg Coming Back

2008-02-25T17:05:00.003-06:00

While not a trade, Peter Forsberg was the next big chip after Mats Sundin opted not to waive his no trade clause.

Peter the Great has signed a one year pro-rated 5 million dollar contract with the Colorado Avalanche. He'll earn about 1 mil to play out the season.

Interestingly, if this all goes well, he will once again be a free agent come July 1st...hmmmmm.

Its starting...chain reaction or dud, this deadline has been activated!

Also, kinda an old-new rumour has the Blue Jackets leading the charge for Brad Richards. While he's not having his best year I sure would rather not have him come to a divisional opponent, to say the least!

Dagger in the Desert

2008-02-25T11:55:00.002-06:00

The game versus Anaheim was a well fought game for the Blues. It took difference maker Teemu Selanne to steal a point from us. However, a road game against the Ducks where we get a point is a success. The losses on this trip last night and in LA are the difference between being in 12th and 8th place.

Another 1st period tempest manifested by the Blues ends in the same result. Zero goals, and lots of frustration. Ilya Bryzgalov, while solid, was hit more than he actually robbed anyone. Even that "amazing" save on Kariya had more to do with Paul being a lefty rather than a righty and his redirect going squarely back toward the goaltender rather than into the open right side of the net.

Brewer, after turning it on when emblazoned with the "C", has regressed a bit to his old self. There were at least a handful of times on the PP that he mishandled the puck and made poor decisions. At one instance he had Boyes on hes left, and Kariya high on his right and after bobbling the puck a touch, backed up toward boyes and took an off-legged wrister towards the net that ended with a simple clear for the Yotes. When firmly in possesion with three men high on the man-advantage one can't mindlessly throw the puck around like that, especially not the Captain. The fact that that was the shot the BLues got after establishing themselves and controlling the puck for over 30 seconds is pathetic. It is a microcosm of why we lose games like this one.

I now have an idea of why AM benches Perron. He simply holds the puck so long that he's destined to lose it. He has to make A move, make a pass, and move his body while AWAY from the puck. He can dangle in a phonebooth, but not a phone booth with 2 opposing players in it with him, which he tried to do ad nauseum last night.

Christian Backman is a prime candidate for a buyout. Cut the cord. Please. While his play has trended up, its obvious he'll never earn what the Blues pay him. Let a young guy fill his spot next year.

Why are the Blues incapable of executing a give and go on the PP? Every time a man comes off the half boards and then cycles it back to the corner we have a chance to hit him as he comes down thh middle. Instead, it is held and then fed out to the point for an all to predictable point shot from Jackman, Brewer or EJ the latter being the only one that can consistenly get them to the net anyway.

With 12 of 20 on the road, the forecast is bleak for Bluesland. 2 goals in 3 road contests "Not gonna do it...at this Juncture." (in the voice of George H.W. Bush)

Expect some moves in the next 24 hours. UFAs and other veterans McKee, Jackman, Backman, Salvador, Rucinsky, Ryan Johnson, Hinote, and RFA McClement may all draw interest.

Stay tuned, I'll update as often as I can as things happen leading up to the deadline.

Another McKee Rumour

2008-02-22T12:39:00.003-06:00

Another nibble coming out of Montreal that the Habs may have an interst in acquiring the gritty shot blocking D-man. I'm on the fence on this one, because while he may not fire a break out pass for a breakaway he decreases the amount of rubber Legace sees by about 25% a night, at least. The only positive is freeing up that 4 million for a run at some UFAs this offseason. The Habs have also expressed reluctance to deal their young guys, except perhaps Ryder, and I don't see the Blues parting ways with Jay for anything less than a second round pick.

Blues subjugated by Kings; Play Ducks Tonight

2008-02-22T11:47:00.004-06:00

Ouch. Thats about all one can say about last nights debacle. After putting forth a dominant first period performance that came up without a lamp lighter, the Blues found themselves at the mercy of an opportunistic Kings squad and Alexander Frolov.

Had the Blues netted even just one goal from their myriad scoring chances in the first and early second period, the game would have been entirely different. But the Kings dodged many bullets in the early stages of the game...or maybe the Blues misfired, but regardless the end result was the Blues never finding the twine which allowe LA to bide their time until lucky bounce after odd carom found its way onto their sticks. Too many times that puck found its way to a Kings' players with no one around them...or near but not actively defending them.

The resulting 4 goals in 5 minutes chased Manny "I Get No Help" Legace from net and threw rookie Chris Beckford-Tseu into the fire for his first NHL action. The kid, while scrambling a bit, looked fairly good, though his tendency to shoulder or shrug at high shots looked awkward at best compared to Manny's casual glove hand.

This game was indicative of the Blues' season as a whole, with talented players getting quality chances and simply not finishing. Boyes, Tkchuk, McDonald, Kariya, and Stempniak all missed wide open nets. Backes botched several chances in front of goaltender Dan Cloutier. The chokes ran rampant through the lineup like the flu had done just a week earlier.

The Blues owned the Kings outside goals scored...Hits, faceoffs, scoring chances, shots...and still lost. John Kelley and Federko were even talking about "time of possesson." Thats how much they were controlling this thing...until the wheels came off. One of those days.

The Blues have no time to dwell, as they get right back to it tonight against Anaheim.

David Perron...where have you gone? The kid was not to be seen last night, again.
That's 4 of the last 5 games.

Eric Brewer, after seemingly turning his game around, was -2 with several blown covers in front of Manny.

Martin Rucinsky continues to frustrate me. Most people will see that he got a goal and think its quality secondary scoring. However, he shuns contact, hooks constantly rather than move his legs, and rarely backchecks with any kind of fervor. You'll notice that he was -2 as well, and I would bet his lack of hustle and defensive discipline may have something to do with the Brewers of the world being out of position. Trade him...please!

Tonight vs. Anaheim:

Walt 492 goals, 22 games remaining.

Doug Weight will not play versus the Blues as he is still nursing a bad wing. He's missed five games so far since shutting it down.

Will Perron play? I hope so.

Andy Murray has been getting a little carried away with his line combos. Why is Ryan Johnson playing with Backes and Walt while Stemper and Rucinsky play with Mayers?

Here's what I'd do:

R-Backes C-McDonald L-Boyes
R-Perron C-Tkchuk L-Kariya
R-Stemper C-McClement L-Rucinsky
R-Stastny/Hinote C-Mayers L-R. Johnson

That looks like 3 decent scoring lines with a good mix of speed and size on each.

Lets hope the Blues are up for this one tonight! Its going to be a tough row to hoe...

Rumour Mill:

The big name out their right now is Brad Richards for all the teams looking for a top line center. After Forsberg bailed on his comeback and Sundin is looking mighty finicky about where he'll allow them to trade him, Richards looks like the next big thing. Tampa is looking for both near and long term defensive help and goaltending. While the Blues don't have a lot in net to send, they have defensive assets aplenty. Richards comes with a big price tag, but if the Blues moved say a Jay McKee, Rucinsky, Polak, and a mid to late round pick...the money would work and the Bolts would get alot of what they're looking for.

Trade deadline time is really entertaining...

Blues try to dethrone Kings tonight in LA

2008-02-21T12:04:00.003-06:00

I mentioned it back in January that if Keith Tkchuk heated up that he had a shot at his 500th goal this year. I am offically counting down:

492 with 23 games left. Go, Walt, Go!

The Blues begin a 3 game trip tonight and wrap up what this would-be-cyber-pundit had identified as the pivotal stretch of the Blues' season. The Blues have been playing quality hockey of late and look continue their surge toward a playoff berth.

I know Andy Murray has stated that he doesn't believe in momentum, but after that 5-1 route of Chicago the Blues must be riding high. AM's opinion of that concept may well change in the next few days!

The Kings have official bagged their season, dangling Rob Blake as trade bait along with every other veteran UFA, along with 2nd line center Mike Cammelleri, who has a nice 4 year 4 mil per contract after his 80+ point season last year. They have already sent D-man Modry to Philly for a 3rd rounder in this year's deep draft. I thought Kopitar and Cammelleri would be the pivots to build around for this young team, but I geuss anyone can go for the right price!

The Blues' have score 6 PP goals in their last 2 games. I beat the lackluster power play like a dead horse when I began blogging, stating that it's success, or lack there of, would determine the Blues' playoff future. They MUST keep it going if we want to see post-season play.

AM sat David Perron against Chicago, anticipating the physical nature of the game. Expect to see him in the lineup against LA as the atmosphere will be quite a bit more tempered. Still, AM needs to stop handling Perron like a newborn...How is keeping him and his 25% shooting accuracy out of intense and critical games and situations helping him? He has to experience them to master them.

The Rumour Mill:

Its been thrown out there that the Penguins have interest in Jay McKee. While his contract is huge, watching this guy play day in and day out I now have an appreciation for why Buffalo fans loved this guy. However, losing his 4 mil for next year, and their surplus of defensive talent in Peoria, would make the Blues serious players in the free agent market for a top tiered forward. Its only a rumour, but I'm interested in the idea, and what the Pens would be willing to offer.

Barret Jackman rumours abound. It seems he's all but outta here.

Marty Rucinsky has come back from the IR and contributed nicely. While I think he's a nice offensive compliment, his 2 way game and tendency to take lazy penalties makes me hope that other teams have noticed and may want to put in an offer. With Yan Stastny on the big club moving Marty would give David Perron an every day slot in the top 6.

Blues Bombard Hawks

2008-02-20T12:21:00.002-06:00

What a game! A packed house, two teams both battling for their playoffs lives, and a punch-in-the-face-contest off the opening faceoff really set this one up to be a great one.

My heart sank when enigmatic Marty Havlat scored on a breakaway to open things up, but the Blues rallied nicely with a rare goal from Barret Jackman.

The game was a playoff-type game, with everyone finishing their checks, scrums and face washes at almost every chance around each net, and a real nice up-tempo style of play. Not to say it was wide open, as neither team gave much early, but it was fast and hard hitting, even if tight.

The Blues really started to take ahold halfway through the 2nd. Riding Brad Boyes' power play goal late in the period the Blues just started taking it to the Hawks. And on that goal, wow, did Andy McDonald blow my mind! He took it in at our blueline, curled it back, danced to the other side and did a nifty look-off/shoulder fake to slide right between to Hawks' forecheckers. Then he accelerated away, streaking up the wing and lasered a beaut of a cross ice pass to Kariya, who sent it in Boyes for a tap in as he got high sticked in the face! Those goals give me hope for both the present and the future...

Erik Johnson played Out of His Mind last night, and it didn't go missed by either the Versus commentators or Andy Murray. Daryl Reagh and his co-hort gushed on and on about EJ's skating and shot, and how "he'll be a half a game guy that quarterbacks your power play...they got a horse right there for the future." AM said after the game "I thought that was Erik's best game so far as a pro. And I don't throw a lot of bouqets..."

Barret Jackman played his strongest game in a long time. It was nice to see Barret play like he used to. He made quality passes, good defensive plays (except he fell at center once and Salvador had to bail him out)and mean as hell without racking up huge PIMs. It was obvious that he had Pat Kane as a marked man all game. On one shift alone I think Barret hit him some 5 times.

Bryce Salvador keeps upping either his contract's worth or his trade value. He's playing like a man on a mission and at a level I really didn't think he would ever acheive.

TIDBITS

Despite scoring a goal against Columbus Sunday, Perron found himself in the pressbox for the 3rd time in 4 games.

I really like what I'm seeing from Yan Stastny. Great forechecking presence and not scared of traffic areas and getting to the net. He's even getting PK time and doing an admirable job.

Manny Legace has played 17 straight games, and rest appears to be nowhere in sight.

Keith Tkchuk needs only 8 more goals to get to 500 with 23 games remaining.

John Davidson isn't showing the Blues' hand as the deadline approach, saying all the right things while remaining ambiguous and tantalizingly vague.

The Blues finish what I had called "the crucial stretch" in determining their playoff hopes and trade deadline position as they take on the Kings in Hollywoodland. They've racked up 7 of 8 points so far and aim for 9 of 10 against the last place Kings who just traded veteran defenseman Jaroslav Modry to Philly for a 3rd round pick. If that is the market for a veteran Blueline presence I expect the Blues to hold onto both Bryce and Barret. However, a Rucinsky and Jackman to the New York Rangers deal seems like its a possibility.

More Tommorrow!

Blues Weekend Wrap-up

2008-02-18T13:10:00.003-06:00

Blues vs. Nashville, Saturday:

Blues lose in OT, 2-1.

The Blues, playing against a Predators team embarassed by the Hawks the night before, looked to be on their way to a hard fought 1-0 win thanks to the stellar play of Legace when a fluke bounce led to a Nichol's goal which he batted out of the air as the puck came off the end boards. A tough break for Manny, as he was incredible, stopping 42 of 44 shots faced. Still with a chance to win as the game seemed destined for OT, Marty Rucinsky took one of his trademark hooking penalties with less than a minute remaining in regulation. The Blues penalty kill had been stellar throughout the game, killing 8 minors, despite losing Bryce Salvador to back spasms on his first shift. Alas, with this penalty carrying over into OT, the 4 on 3 kill was a different animal and the PK unit was unable to stop Shea Weber's game winning point blast just into the extra session. A hard loss to swallow for sure, but on the bright side, Manny single handedly got the Blues one crucial point.

In this game there were several problems, including both Brewer and Tkchuk taking 2 minors, and Marty's rdiculously unneccessary game costing minor. What he was doing out there in the waning moments no one but Andy Murray knows. How the refs called the Blues for 9 minors and the Preds for only 1 is hard to fathom, but still, it rests on the Blues to stop the parade to the box once it the refs make it clear they're all over them.

Allowing 44 shots, even to a motivating team, is unacceptable. Manny made acrobatic saves all night and his team still found a way to sabotage a stolen victory and a shutout.

Blues vs. Columbus:

Blues dominate 5-1.

Sunday's game went better, much better. The Blues, after being challenge by Murray to help their goaltender after letting him down, allowed just 19 shots on net, with the Jackets' one goal being a fortuitous Shorthanded goal that stemmed from a Columbus clearing attempt that deflected away from Brewer to s streaking Rick Nash. After that game tying tally it was all Blues, as their power play exploded for a season high tying 3 power play goals from Boyes, McDonald, and Tkchuk. Matt Walker opened the scoring his first ever goal in 153 games and David Perron also scored on a slick give and go with Lee Stempniak.

Eric Brewer, despite not handling the clearing attempt and defacto assissting on Rick Nash's goal, had four assists in this game, inclunding a laser pass up the gut to a streaking Andy McDonald that harkened back to the break out passes of Al Mcinnis and Chris Pronger. Blues fans can only hope that this is a sign that Brewer is rounding into form, after a forgettable first half, and then some. I had stated at the beginning of this blog that I wondered if Eric was a second half player, as so many forwards have been labeled. Its safe to say that Eric played amazing down the stretch last year, which is in large part why the Blues extended him. However, he's been dogged by a lack of focus and timely decision making all year, and until this outburst, looked average at best. Being a second half player seems to be an extremely undesirable trait for both a defenseman and a team Captain. We can only hope that with the added responsibility of leading this team that Eric learns to bring his game season long going forward into the future. And despite my, and many others', many gripes and grumblings we all have to accept that he will be here for at least the length of his current contract.

Great to see the Blues PP come alive in a huge game, against a divisional foe and a team just ahead of them in the standings. It has to continue for the Blues to keep trending up.

Th Analysis

While netting 3 of 4 points over the weekend and 5 of 6 through the first 3 games of this crucial stretch, the Note now find themselves in 11th place and 3 points behind Vancouver for the last playoff spot. They've successfully vaulted themselves back into the race, which while far from over, many were already counting them out of. It will be a tough battle, though, as the Blues play 15 of their last 23 on the road. They'll have to do much better than their 10-12 road mark to actualize a playoff spot.

Up Next: National Broadcast-Blues vs. Blackhawks, Tuesday on Versus

Lets go Blues!

RUMOUR UPDATE - Its almost D Day!

2008-02-16T11:05:00.002-06:00

Pundits in cyberspace are talking a Barret Jackman to Buffalo for Alex Kotalik deal.

Kotalik is a highly skilled and young scoring RW that would really compliment the Blues nicely. If the Blues move Martin Rucinsky as expected, he could slide right in to his place.

Blues, Lake Forest, Victorious!

2008-02-15T11:23:00.002-06:00

A good night indeed for this Blues fan, as both the my beloved Blues and my manic/bi-polar mens team, Lake Forest, win on the same night! Blues over the Avs 4-1, Lake Forest over TKS 11-1...Yeah, Baby, Yeah! (In the style of Austin Powers)

The Blues picked up a much needed 2 points against a strong home team in the Avs, who currently possess the 3rd best home record in the league. Paul "Bunyon" Kariya (he may not be tall, but he's a giant out there) notched the first on a tip, streaking through the low slot, something the Blues had not been doing enough of. After that the Note got a healthy dose of that much desired and desperately needed ancillary scoring with a goal from Matt McClement, a beaut of a shorty by Ryan Johnson, and an empty netter in the waning moments from red hot hit-meister David Backes. Manny Legace turned aside 39 of 40 shots, though most of them were perimeter attempts as the Blues tenacity frustrated the Avs to the point they threw anything the could on net inside our Blueline. All in all a solid effort.

Erik Johnson looked great, even saving a goal by swatting away a puck on the goal line that squeaked through Manny's pads.

McClement is playing with fire and speed. Great to see him turn it on.

Andy McDonald continues to impress me with each game. The Blues havn't had his combination of speed and savvy ever, in my opinion. Kariya is fast, but A-mac looks like he's riding a magic carpet out there. Anyone feeling a sequel to Sha-Zaam!? Regardless, I'd love to see Paul, Andy, and Ryan Johnson leg it out against eachother.

With only one man advantage all game the Blues didn't have much of a chance to try to continue the recent, though modest, success of the PP unit.

I stated in my last post that the Blues need these next five starting with the Avs. These games represent 10 points against teams the Blues should beat. We now head to moonshine country to face the Preds who are coming off an absolute beat-down at the hands of the Blackhawks. The Hawks, who have now crushed both Columbus and Nashville in consecutive games, await the Blues as the fourth game of this crucial 5 game stretch, with the Blues facing Columbus after Nashville.

Bottom line: 1-0 so far as we play out what this Blues fan sees the fulcrum of our season. It will either launch us into playoff contention or place us firmly in the realm of the marginal.

Check back tommorrow for Blues-Preds pregame...

Note takes on the Avs in Denver @ 8pm

2008-02-14T10:44:00.002-06:00

Not unlike the Blues, things havn't been too consistent here at the Big blues Hockey Blog, battling the flu and what not. Its about time we fall into a rythm down the stretch, as we all hope the Note can do as well. A game night preview plus some thoughts on the last few debacles, er, games:

Avs in Denver

The Blues need these 2 pts desperately, and need to prevent Colorado, who holds the 8th and final playoff spot, from solidifying their position with any points. Its the cliche' 4 pt. game, and the Blues need to win in order to instill a prevent defense. Prevent the playoffs from slipping away that is. If the Blues can steal 2 away from home, they have a chance to tie Phoeniz for 11th and move within 1 pt of 10th place Columbus. Furthermore the Avs will then take their playoff spot on the road the next 6 of 7 games, giving the bubble teams ample opportunity to catch them.

The last 2 contests against the Avs have been anything but good for the Blues. A 9-5 drubbing in Denver was followed by a 6-4 loss at home against the mile high franchise. The fact that these losses, and massive gluts of goals against, came against a team missing Sakic and Smyth for both and Paul Stastny for the last one seems incredulous. This Avs club is the shorthanded, anemic offensed type that the Blues have to beat playing their game, not getting into a bush-league shootout against. Blues hockey is goaltending, defense, and opportunistic scoring. This team cannot and should not run-and-gun.

GAME NOTES

Ryan Smyth will be back in the lineup, but both Sakic and Stastny will not be.

Marty Rucinsky had a nice game on Tuesday with a goal and an assist. This is the type of secondary scoring the Blues have been starving for.

Lee Stempniak, who missed Tuesdays game with the flu should be in the lineup, but is a game time decision.

The Blues next 5 games could well determine their playoff future, with each game wither against a lesser opponent or someone just ahead in the standings. We play Colorado, Nashville, Columbus, Chicago, and Los Angeles. All games the Blues are capable of winning. If we Actualize these 10 pts, the Blues will be back in the thick of things.

THE LAST FEW GAMES

Its been hard to keep your hopes buoyed if you're a Blues fan the last week and a half. After stumbling into the All-Star break the Blues emerged with back-to-back one goal victories over Toronto and the Ducks, only to tank the next four in a row. Aside from the shoutout loss to the Wild each other loss was a complete breakdown by the team as a whole. 6-4 loss to the Avs, 5-4 loss to the Lightning, and a 6-2 shellacking by the streaking Dallas Stars. Allowing 17 goals over 3 games will ensure losses for the lowest scoring team in the league. Not coincidentally, the Blues named their Captain after the 6-2 drubbing, and followed up with a 2-1 SO loss, and then their most recent game was a 4-2 win. It seems that Brewer's effect as a leader may be more consistent than his play, and could be a much greater help than his point shot ever will be. He still is an overrated donkey. Lets just hope he can hoist the yoke of leadership and plow in the playoff seed.

Back in Blue, and Totally Bewildered

2008-02-08T11:46:00.000-06:00

Lots to go over these last few games, I've been busy away from the blog, and this past weekend came down with some flu bug for the third time this year. I must not be getting enough vitamin C...or maybe I hang out with my nieces and nephews too much. Germ carrying vermin I tell you.

Foremost, I need to pass on this piece of hot-off-the-presses info:

ERIC BREWER NAMED BLUES CAPTAIN.

I want to throw up in my mouth. Just did.

Of all the lip service I have given the lack of a Captain on the team this year I simply can't fathom that now, at the stretch, after a game in which said player directly gave the puck away, AGAIN, for 2 gaols vs. the Lighning, that this guy is the captain.

Andy Murray is either off his meds or they've given him crazy pills. Brewer, despite brutal play at times, has been given a pass by this coaching staff, having never been benched once, while the other d-men get dressed down and sat in a never ending revolving door press box cycle.

Another black mark against AM. He just seems to operate against the grain, against common sense for its own sake. Eric Brewer has not been playing good hockey. He routinely makes poor decisions. He doesn't fight for his teammates. I watched him go into a 8 person scrum against the Ducks with his stick in his hand and his head back. Awesome. Ahoy, Captain Brewer! Permission to go down with your sinking ship!?

If you havn't infered, I'm not a particularly huge fan of this move. Its obvious that as the Blues flounder at this crucial time Management felt like they needed someone to start steering, since AM can't. And it would appear that they traded the best man for the job in Doug Weight. But who else?

Paul Kariya has been a Captain, but he's the new guy.

Keith Tkchuck has been a Captain, and has not been shy to call out poor performances, especially by the youth. But he may be too abrasive, and as a short termed vet, isn't the Captain of the future.

Bryce Salvador always brings his lunchpail. Not much else, but sometimes thats enough. However, his uncertain contract status leaves him out of consideration. Same for Barret Jackman.

Andy McDonald has the work ethic and pedigree to be a leader, but he's too fresh a face to be the vangaurd for the franchise.

Boyes, Stempniak, Backes, all too young. They're the ones that need the leadership. The "let me show you how" and "let me tell you what".

Jay McKee's tenure in Bluesdom has been marred by injury, or he'd be up there, but playing a one season out of 3 to date doesn't give you the staying power.

I would rather see, not WANT but rather see, Jamal Mayers as our Captain. He brings the pain, applies the lumber, sticks up for his teammates, has a high "compete" level, kills penalties, blocks shots etc. He's a fan favorite. He has a new contract. Is he a prototypical Captain? No. Does he belong on our Second line or Power Play. Certainly not. But on the face it would seem like he may actually make sense as the Captain. Clearly more so than Brewer, a player who routinely draws chorus' of boos from the home crowd. So I must infer that Jamal doesn;t hold sway in the locker room. Having known persons that worked within the organization and have told me of various personality traits, I would not be suprised if he had little legitimate pull througout the locker room.

So I am forced to come to the conclusion that Management decided they had to have a Captain, and going down the list, just like I did here, they realized the only one they COULD make captian, was Eric Brewer. This is not how Captains are chosen. This is a sham. This is Andy Murray's Blues.

More on the last few games later...

All Star Quick Hits and Leafs Pre-Game

2008-01-29T12:39:00.001-06:00

All-Star Wrap Up

So for those of you paying attention the All Star weekend was a fun one. I have a few thoughts one the whole set up:

1) The fastest skater competition's new format was horrible. The times were off, didn't fire, and the "sprint" format doesn't do it justice. I remember back in the early 90's when they started these and they actually used a radar gun to clock a guy going around the rink, with guys getting going over 30+ mph. Then the timed format was a great way to judge it. Who got around the rink eith the fastest time took a player's entire skating skill set into consideration, rather than straight away speed. This year's version was a boondogle, and even Doc Emmerick stopped announcing who he thought won because the whole set up kept contradicting him. You would have thought they would at least hash out thebugs first.

2) I liked the Young-Stars game being a part of the skills comp, sandwiched by events. It made it a part of the "Big Show." However, did we really need to go 3 on 3? How about 4 on 4 before we turn this into simple pond hockey.

3) The Breakaway Challenge was a great idea, and I assume now that players get the idea, as only Alex Ovechkin did, it will improve in the future. It can be summed up by Ryan Getzlaf being heard on the mic after his third attempt when he was going head to head vs. AO :"I just wanted to score one, man..." Well thats not the point, Ryan. Ugly goals get scored, its still a goal. You were supposed to try to do things outside the box, use creativity, imagination. AO didn't score on any of his, but I loved each of his attempts. I hope this one sticks, and that power forwards like Getzlaf are left off the docket. This event was made for the Alfredsons, Gaboriks, AOs, Crosbys, St. Louis' of the league.

4)Chris Osgood looked like the Ozzie of Blues yore without the Wings in front of him. Good riddance. He, like Ray Emery last year, got a nice contract for putting up gaudy numbers in front of his conference's best team. We see how Ray is doing up ther in Ottawa now, don;t we.

5)The game itself was entertaining, coming down to the final seconds. I won't lie, I was hoping for a shootout. Rick Nash is a monster, I love watching him. too bad we have to play him 8 times a year.

6)It was great to see Manny Legace get so much air time. You really got a feel for who he was, and what kind of attitude he brings to a team. He's no Belfour or whinny Euro, he's an easy going funny guy. I especially liked his back and forth with commissioner Darth Bettman.

Blue vs. Leafs

The Blues have a great chance to start "The 2nd Half" with a W against a tumultuous Leafs team. Our old Norris division rivals have front office upheaval, trade runours galore, inconsistent goaltending, and a plethora of injuries.

Among the wilted Leafs: McCabe, Bell, Ponikarovsky, Steen, and Boyce. Colaiacovo will play against the Blues, coming off a knee injury.

The Blues have Rucinsky and M. Johnson both out.

Steve Wagner has been recalled from Peoria and will suit up.

Reports have Erik Johnson and Christian Backman in the press box, as the Blues have 8 defensemen up now and usually only dress 6.

Look for the Blues to come out flying! They know its go time...

Update

2008-01-22T14:17:00.000-06:00

Brad Boyes will not be a replacement player for the West All Star squad.

Out for the West:
Zetterberg (back spasms)
Zubov (foot injury)
Stastny (appendectomy)

In:
Ribiero-career year, well deserved appointment
Cory Perry
Scott Neidermayer-a lot of people thought Brian Rafalski should replace Zubov, but with Lidstrom, Datsyuk and Osgood all still representing the Wings, the league opted to spread the love and put perrenial All-Star and fan favorite Neidermayer in despite his only having played 17 games. He has 11 pts (2-9-11) in those 17 games while the Ducks have surged to 2nd in the Pacific and are 12-5 since his return. While I understand while some people are miffed, I also see the logic in giving Neids the appointment. I for one, won't mind watching the man work...

Legace Can't do it All

2008-01-22T11:11:00.000-06:00

Back to back loses to the Nashville Preds have allowed them to leapfrog the Blues in the standings. I missed the game on Saturday, and by all accounts it was almost as bad as the effort put forth by the Blues on Monday evening.

Last nights game was the perfect microcosm of all things I have feared and stated here. Manny can't do it all by himself. The team seams rudderless since the Doug Weight trade with a dearth of leadership on the ice and in the locker room. Say what you will about Weight's early struggles, nobody on this team emotes and fires up like he did. He was the guy that yelled and pumped his fist on the ice, gave the refs a piece of his mind, called out guys in the locker room. Not to reporters, to the players. Anyone who had talked to me early this season knew I held the belief that Doug should have been named captain at the beginning of this season, after he carried a young team down the stretch last year. Andy Murray's honoring of Dallas Drake needs to end before this captainless ship ends up on the rocks.

Before I touch some other topics let me state that the officals last night looked like they fell out of a Mid-States high school game. Yikes. They directly affected the outcome and momentum of the game on more than 2 occasions. I would certainly hope Blues managment files some sort of complaint. However, the Blues were far worse enemies to themselves than any other facet of the game, so my commentary on that issue will stop there.

Christian Backman's scratching last night is also peculiar, as his play has definitely been improved of late. A report had Backman saying that after a closed door meeting with AM, he was told he would be in the lineup, but after getting scratched was never approached or told why. This is completely indicative of how AM razzes veteran guys. I don't see how sitting a guy down and laying out expectations for him, telling him "We're going with the same linup." (aka you will be in) and then benching him without explanation is going to help him actualize these expectations. Once they're charted they should be given the opportunity to actuate. Again, I have noted here how Backman's play has improved over the last 2 weeks. AM has been lauded for his straight forwardness. It seems more and more that that is a fallacy, and he dabbles in the Mike Keenan School of Head Games.

Is it safe to say the coaching staff's experiment with Brewer on the PP can end now? The Blues are 1 for 10 since the move and Eric had nothing to do with the one tally registered. Once again AM sandbags a young guy in Erik Johnson. The message being sent isn't a good one to our youth. Both EJ and Perron would be in the Calder hunt if AM would play them. EJ had been on a projected point pace of 50. That would have been a top 20 defensemen in scoring. I've gone over Perron's mishandling ad naseum...

Speaking of young guys we've had a David Backes sighting. He's been finding his way onto the scoresheet of late, which is great. It was also great to see him playing with Keith and Kariya last night. I'm glad the Jamal Mayers as a scoring line winger fiasco seems to have come to an end. Not a moment too soon.

Its easy to see why Legace is the Blues all-star. Now that he's had a few rough games the Blues miscues and woebegotten powerplay are magnified tenfold. Blues prognosticator Andy Strickland hit it on the head when he pointed out that the Note has deviated from its "shift to shift" mentality that served them so well the second half of last season and the first of this one. It seems the Blues looked at their 23 wins and said "We really are good" and have decided to rest on their laurels. Thats not going to work with the worst PP in the league and an inconsistent defensive effort game to game.

As for the PP, I think its time we really start beating up the coaches. Between systemic issues and personnel decisions the PP is a wreck. The coaching staff is shuffling units so much no one is comfortable and they steadfastedly refuse to switch the look we're giving to opposing PK units. They can call it a lack of execution all they want, but its still their job to make a change if its not working. And its not working for ANYBODY. Given the limitations on human resources, what say we alter our approach? Maybe? Think about it, but not for too long, otherwise the chance to make the playoffs, and really build momentum with fans and sponsors alike, erodes in front of our eyes like a 3rd period lead.

TIDBITS:

Martin Rucinsky is 2-3 weeks out still, but says he can't wait to get back, knowing the playoff bubble is shrinking.

Toivonen is back up from Peoria, along with Mike Glumac. Glumac had a nice outing last night in his first call up of the year.

Brad Boyes is on the short list the NHL is considering to replace Paul Stastny On the West All Star squad.

With 35 days to go til the deadline the rumour mill is heating up. The Blues' names out there are Backman, Jackman, Rucinsky (NYR anyone?)and Salvador. With Polak, Wagner, and Micki DuPont in Peoria it seems inevitable that the Blues move some D for a scoring forward.

Weekend Getaway

2008-01-18T09:57:00.000-06:00

Hey all, I'll be heading out to Phoeniz AZ for a friend's wedding this weekend...in about 2 hours. I'm going to do my best to catch the Nashville matchup, but its slotted at the same time as this damn wedding. I may not be able to catch this one. This is why i need an iphone. I could have Center Ice streaming to me while I suffer at this charade.

Manny Legace's X-rays came back negative and is expected to play vs. the Preds.

Recent reports have Eric Brewer taking EJ's spot on the top PP unit. For the love of God, WHY?!

Holla at you all soon...

Blues vs. Hawks @ United Center 7:35pm

2008-01-16T11:42:00.000-06:00

For starters, I want to let everyone know I've changed the settings on the comments section, so you don't have to log in or sign up. Please feel free to leave feedback about the blog or discuss Blues hockey at will! I'm still learning the ins and outs of this thing...

The Blues are coming off a shootout loss to the Canucks thanks to their 20 minute warm-up other teams call 'the first period'. All kidding aside after 4 games in 6 days last week the Note have had a nice 3 day break and should be well rested for a struggling Hawks team that has struggled since losing rookie phenom center Johnathan Toews. The Hawks just ended an eight game skid with a shootout win over the Predators.

The Blues have split the season series so far 2-2, and have improved their road record to .500 at 8-8-2.

TSN is reporting that Hawks coach Denis Savard will keep Patrick Lalime in net after he won his last 2 starts, deciding to go with the back up and one time Blues netminder in light of the recent struggles of Nikolai Khabibulin.

With Toivonen sent to Peoria and the Blues only playing 2 games this week, expect to see Legace in both contests.

The Blues currently sit in 9th place in the West. The stretch essentially starts now for playoff bubble teams.

TIDBITS

Martin Rucinsky is still out with his separated shoulder.

Blues top prospect TJ Oshie has submitted a not guilty plea in regards to his Disorderly Conduct charge. While North Dakota U. and police officials remain vague on details of the incident, some close to the situation feel the officers blew the situation out of proportion when Oshie and a New Hampshire player got themselves stuck in an elevator in a UND housing hall.

Keith Tkchuck, after a recent surge in output, needs only 15 goals to reach 500 for his career. If he keeps finding the twine, its a distinct possibility that he could join the elite corps of players this season.

Both David Perron and Erik Johnson have been named to play in the NHL Young Stars game over the All Star weekend. The game will feature a new 3 on 3 format with an 8 player roster for each squad. They will shoot on All-Star goaltenders.

The Rest of the West's youg stars: Sam Gagner (EDM), Peter Mueller (PHX), Patrick Kane (CHI), and defensemen Alexander Edler (VAN), Jack Johnson (LA), and Matt Niskanen (DAL)

All for now everyone, til later...

Mixed Effort Costs a Point

2008-01-14T11:55:00.000-06:00

The Blues came out of the with an F flat last night. While watching the Canucks cycle and control in our zone at their leisure during the first 10 minutes or so of the game, I thought back to former Blues play-by-play man and incomparable wordsmith Ken Wilson and some of his most poignant work: "The Blues need to get the puck..."

Caught flat by an opportunistic Canucks team, a couple of quick transition goals and a string of Blues penalties led to a 3-1 deficit by early in frame 2. Not a good scenario when facing the leagues best goaltender. Disheartening to say the least for those of us in attendance. And while the botched first period and lackluster beginning of the second cannot be glanced over, the Blues did do a nice job battling back to salvage a point from tough Vancouver club. A 4-3 shootout loss is something I'm willing to accept given the entire body of work. In other words, we probably didn't deserve that point, but we'll gladly take it.

Christian Backman scored his first of the season, and a nice one at that. After being scratched for Firday's game Christian's play continues to improve. I still an advocate for giving him quality 2nd PP time, but he's got a tough row to hoe before he drags himself out of the doldrums in Andy Murray's doghouse. If he continues his play of late, that may not take too long.

When it was time for the shootout I asked my buddy Andy Hanselman, who generously invited me to the game, who he thought Andy Murray should run out there. I predicted Stempniak, Perron, and McDonald. AM instead sent Boyes, Kariya, and McDonald out there. I wonder if he even considers the goaltender? Why run 2 shooters in Boyes and Kariya, not known as deke-meisters or danglers, out against the human sheild that is Roberto Luongo. To beat him in a SO, you pretty much have to make a move, and a good one. Predictably, Boyes loses a handle trying to deke. Kariya takes a rip and Luongo easily snares it. McDonald tries a nifty move to slide the puck five hole that Luongo doesn't let through. It really seemed like AM, for all his preparedness, sometimes shuns common sense.

This brings me to my "Key On" segment. The 2nd line of Kariya, Mayers and Tkchuck had a pretty solid effort last night, with Paul posting 2 assists and Walt tallying a nice breakaway goal. The puck is starting to find the twine for Keith after a rough stretch.
I simply cannot understand the use of Jamal on this line. He wasn't bad last night. Servicable in our own end, solid forecheck, bad perimeter shooting, and mixing it up here and there. But there was simply nothing there to warrant the sacrifice of a scoring line position to this man. He can abley do all thesse things on the checking line.
To tie into this mystery was the blatant underutilization of David Perron, as AM had him spot shifting on the scoring lines, but primarily CHECKING with Ryno and Hinote. What!? This kid is a true, viable scoring threat and yet he gets a half handful of shifts in the third period and none in OT to coincide with his absence from the shootout lineup. The whole dynamic is mind boggling. AM is killing me with his handling of Perron.

TIDBITS

Erik Johnson took a puck to the side of the head in the 3rd last night. He left shortly as he rung his bell but would come back and appears to be fine.

The word is that the Blues will send down Hannu Toivonen and elevate Marek Schwarz to be Manny's backup. After a nice start to the season in relief Hannu has had a rough go of it since filling in when Manny tweaked his knee. Apparently the Blues think starting in Peoria will allow him to straighten himself out.

Thoughts go out to Jeff Perkins, a member of my ice hockey team, who suffered a concussion and broke his jaw after getting cheap shotted in a roller hockey game. An opposing player blind sided Jeff with an elbow behind the play. These classless acts taint hockey in any form. Players like this offender ruin hockey for me.

All for now folks.

Blues Matinee vs. Canucks, 5pm @ Scottrade

2008-01-13T11:05:00.000-06:00

Sorry I never came back for the pre or postgame reports on the Columbus game. An after work Happy Hour turned into Happy Hours and I ended up watching the game at venerable local watering hole and excellent game watching venue The Sidebar. Try the pizza, quesadilla and nachos...Top notch! As for the follow up...well in a classic rookie blogger's mistake I found little I wanted to comment on. Then I realized last night that I have to take the good and the bad together, thats what I'm doing here. I'm not blogging just to be a fan, cheerleader or to tow a company line. We have to look at the horrible sad sack performances just as we do the prodigal. As I said, with every day, post, and time imcrement that passes I get a better feel for blogging, and this blog. We'll round her into form soon enough. That said, as we can't afford to live to far in the past, I will ask only this: What the hell was Matt Walker doing on a 5-3 Power Play in a tied contest (or any contest for that matter)? Anyone?

VANCOUVER

The Canucks come into town trying to stave off their first three game losing streak of the season. The Canucks failed to address their lack of scoring punch this offseason and have continued to ask goaltender Roberto Luongo to make them a playoff team. Captain Markus Naslund has rounded into his old self after a slow start to the season and it simply boils down to him and the Sedin twins either getting it done or not on offense from night to night.

The Blues will have Legace back in net tonight after Toivonen spelled him on Friday. This will be the Blues 4th game in six days. I like the way the Blues offense has looked the last few games, tallying 6,4 and 4 goals in our last three. The fact that the Power Play has only contributed 1 goal to that total is ridiculous. Struggling offensive teams usually look to the PP to get them back on track and regain lost confidence. The Blues have kick starting the scoring in spite of their PP. I hate to be repetitive but this HAS to be rectified. If this doesn't change soon the onus will come off the players and fall onto Ray Bennet.

With Luongo and the defensive Canucks in town I expect a fairly tight, low scoring affair tonight. While the Blues havn't proven themselves to have fully left behind their offensive shortcomings I like both our O and our D more than Vancouver. Luongo will be the difference between 2, 1 or no points for the Blues.

Going to do a new thing and start picking a player or group to really watch each game. Tonight I'll key on our 2nd line, with Walt, Paul, and Jamal.

All for now!

Blue Victorious Against Big D, Columbus Tonight

2008-01-11T10:48:00.000-06:00

The Blues emerged with a solid 4-2 victory Thursday over the visiting Dallas Stars. The offense once again reared its sometimes, and hopefully more frequent, potent head. Brad Boyes netted a pair with Kariya and Tkchuck netting the others, inluding the game winner by Walt.

While technically the Blues went 0 for 4 on the Power Play, Boyes' first goal came with Zubov stepping out of the box 2 seconds prior to the tally. We'll go ahead and consider that a defacto win for the PP unit. They need a good pat on the back.

The way the Blues were executing and finsihing in the offensive zone really stood out last night, with solid puck posession in Dallas' end. The Blues really saw and took advantage of their opportunities, especially their passing lanes, going cross ice tape to tape for 3 of their four goals. The way they finished, which had been lacking until this week, is to be commended as well. These were "scorer's" goals.

Eric Brewer seems to be moving the puck and making decisions faster, which is helping him cut down some of those gaudy turnovers that plagued him early and often this season. Brewer, I think, has been putting too much pressure on himself to make plays and thereby holding the puck for longer than either neccessary or desired. It has also dawned on me that perhaps, as we throw around for offensive players, that Eric is a second-half-player. Not the most desirable trait in a defensman, but if he can round into a form that resembled anything like his play down the stretch last spring, the Blues would be extremely better for it.

Does anyone else love the way Backes forchecks? I don't know how he does it time and again but if the Blues dump it in he gets behind the defenders so often, or is right on them for a puck separating hit, it amazes me. He is a big guy, and sneaky quick to boot. I think he cathches a lot of defenders off guard when he comes barreling in. "Where did HE come from, he was flat footed at the blue line a second ago..."

TIDBITS:

I'd be doing a deservice if I didn't mention the monster deal Alex Ovechkin just signed in D.C. 13 years for 124 million...Wow! No wonder this took so long to get sorted out. Some question these contracts and their effects on player motivation, but anyone who has seen AO play knows he has the internal motor to be a top player year in and out. This guy flat out loves to play, and score goals. Money well spent. Congrats to the Caps on ensuring entertaining hockey for their fans for the foreseeable future.

Blues veteran winger Mike Johnson will have to have surgery on his shoulder, ending his season. I had mentioned this previously, and reports are a torn labrum has gotten too painful to play through, which he has been doing for some time. Mike offered a lot of versatility and depth for this team, and its a shame the Blues won't have him as they battle for a playoff position.

I'll be back in little bit with some pre-game thoughts for Columbus tonight this afternoon.

Blues vs. Stars Tonight@ Scottrade

2008-01-10T13:26:00.000-06:00

Tonights game marks the halfway point of the season and the Blues sit in 8th place in the Western Conference at 21-14-5. Not too shabby, if I do say so myself.

The boys in blue look to solidify their playoff hopes tonight against a red hot Dallas Stars team that has found some serious offensive firpower in the Ribiero, Morrow, Meittenen line.

The Blues themselves are coming off a nice 6-1 drubbing of the Colombus Blue Jackets, which has to have the everyone breathing easier after a tough stretch of offensive woes.

The Stars come into town for the back end of back to back games as they downed the Chicago Blackhawks 3-1 last night, riding a 3 assist performance by franchise player Mike Madano. Also, the Stars opted to extend Ribiero at 5/25 million after his breakout 46 pt first half. We'll see if this career high 65pt getter can become the type of player he's showing us now year in and year out. These types of signing have become more and more common in the salary cap era, as GMs and players alike seek cost certainty and cap system control.

Puck Drops at 7:35! Expect youngster Smith in net for the Stars, as Marty Turco turned in a nice performance last night against the Hawks. Legace in goal for the Blues, though he may get a breather tommorrow in Colombus.

Only real injury for the Blues is Marty Rucinsky who is back in his native Czech Republic, though Mike Johnson is also reportedly hurting as well, and may watch this one from the press box. Steve Wagner was sent back to Peoria, so the Blues no longer have the log-jam on defense.

Let you all know more as it comes up!

Blues pound Blue Jackets...I suffer

2008-01-09T09:01:00.000-06:00

Hello Blues fans, sorry I didn't give you all anything on the pre-game but I've been down and out with a nasty stomach flu since monday morning. Its been 48 hours of miserable hell for me and now still weak and suffering some lingering stomach upset I can at least muster the strength to post. Both this blog and my fantasy lineups went ignored during this flu bug. Its been a long time since I've been shelved like that...

Good to see the Blues power up the O last night, riding Andy McDonald early. Perron looked good skating with Andy and Boyes. I mentioned in an earlier post the idea of splitting up Kariya and McDonald, however I didn't think that would give cause to elevate JAMAL MAYERS to the second line! What is the deal AM?

Stemper's really got the kid line fired up! Those guys are looking like they did last year down the stretch. This would be a GREAT time for these guys to start contributing on a more consistent level. It's what we're going to need to get into the big dance come April.

The Power Play was 1 for 6 last night, which while bringing a small success, is still not going to power the Blues to victory on any given night. Blues Assistant Head Coach and resident PP "guru" Ray Bennet and Co. need to get this unit together. The West is going to be so tight that special teams may very well determine who plays and who golfs come playoff time, especially for a bubble team like the Note. Historically Ray's special teams units in LA weren't terrific either, but the personnel here in STL is substantially better. Lets hope both coaches and players put this together soon.

The Dallas stars come to town on Thursday. More on the the matchup tommorrow.

Backman Strong, Manny Being Manny

2008-01-06T18:00:00.000-06:00

Another Blues victory one can squarely give credit to Manny Legace for. I thought for sure the Blues would be able to manifest some sort of offense against a traveling, tired Carolina team, but alas it was not to be. All that said, I'll take a 1-0 shutout victory any day.

Christian Backman played a real solid game. Looked very good in his own zone. Only mistake came due to a poor decision by his defensive partner. He passed well, moved the puck with quick, efficient passes and did a fantastic job reading the plays in the offensive zone and was able to hold the puck in, pinch in or make some sort of positive play many times over at the point.

Manny had another stellar game. The Blues can't possibly rely on him every game. Someone needs to start scoring, and fast. Did anyone else's heart stop when he was slow to get up in the second period? Yikes.

Lee Stemniak looks like he's really rounded into form. He was all over the ice last night.

Someone I talked to had the idea of re-uniting the Boyes-Tkchuk-Kariya line and moving Andy McDonald to a line with Stemper. The gist was that Kariya and McDonald are 2 similar undersized players and are a redundant entity on the same line.

Blues @ Scottrade vs. Carolina 7:35pm

2008-01-05T16:08:00.001-06:00

Lots of news coming from our various media outlets for tonights game against a potent Carolina team.

Barret Jackman will be back from his stint on the IR with a concussion.

Manny will be back in net after removing himself from Wednesday's game vs. Edmonton due to dehydration.

Steve Wagner will be available.

All indications are that Andy McDonald, or "Mickey D" as he has been dubbed, will be back in the lineup tonight. That bodes well for the Blues, and especially their woeful power play. Lets hope Andy can inject some life into the team and the man advantage.

The Hurricanes have some injuries of their own, including Andrew Ladd, who is a dynamic young player. Add Scott Walker, Jason Williams and Cullen (their calling it illness but it seems it can only be a concussion) to the press box invite list to join defensemen Tanabe, Hedican, and recent healthy scrath Frantisek Kaberle and the Blues face a team not as loaded as it was when hot early this year.

Even offensive stalwarts and former Blues Rod Brindamour and Cory Stillman have slowed of late.

The good news is that the Blues have had 3 days rest, while the Canes played last night, eeking out a win against Hotlanta. They key will be to come out strong and hard, not unlike the first two frames against Edmonton, where the Blues outshot the Oilers 22-8 and went into the third with the lead.

And that brings us to our next key to the game. We need a full 60 minute effort, moreover when we don't know what to expect with the Power Play. With the Blues squandering PP after PP, even 5 on 3s, the only way to ensure we'll be in the game is an all out 60 minute effort. This is exactly what they failed to do in the third period Wednesday and it ended up costing us a point. Points are only going to get harder and harder to come by, so throwing them away now is foolhardy at best.

Youngster Leighton started for the Canes last night, so expect to see Cam Ward man the crease for Carolina.

Start channeling your positive energy...LET'S GO BLUES!!

Blues Power Play not Fizzling, Simply Lifeless

2008-01-04T11:29:00.000-06:00

Blues Power Play Notes-

Just throwing around some observations and ideas for improving the Blues Powerless Play. Going 1 for their last 31 on the man advantage, scoreless in their last 24 and falling to the bottom of the league rankings at 12%. A look at what’s up:

1st Unit: McDonald, Keith Tkachuk, Brad Boyes, Paul Kariya and Erik Johnson.

Boyes should not be playing the point, period. He’s a fantastic in tight hands guy, not a passer (11 assists), and while his shot is quick and accurate, it’s not big. Brad makes his living from the slot hash marks and low face off dots in. I know when Doug manned the point he nailed cross ice passes into other’s wheelhouses, and could put the low hard shot on goal. That and his ability to control the puck on the boards is one more thing we’re missing with Doug aside from his considerable locker room presence. Boyes is certainly not going to fill Doug’s role, 2 totally different players.

The only real viable option is to run Wagner out there with EJ. They are your 2 best offensive defensemen…use them accordingly. I’ll accept a few SH breakaways for the drastic improvement this will bring. However there is not way in H-E-Double Hockey Sticks that AM would ever run the 2 rookies out on the PP together.

Keith Tkchuk needs to find the twine. He’s getting a lot of pucks in his area in front, and they need to start finding net.

Lastly, Paul Kariya looks timid, like he’s been reading about concussions. He’s so worried about bringing his stick up to protect himself he’s giving the puck away like kettle corn at Fair St. Louis. I know Paul is undersized and has had to protect himself his entire career, but we can't have the 6 Million Dollar Man playing scared. Jamal, Walker, DJ, Johnson, Hinote, Jackman, all need to make sure they’re taking numbers and spreading the word: “Don’t hit Paul Kariya.”

2nd Unit: The Blues have used David Perron, Lee Stempniak, David Backes, Steve Wagner, Eric Brewer, Christian Backman and recently Jamal Mayers.
Second unit needs Boyes on it, with Stemper on the point. Put Backes in front, Boyes off the left boards for one-timers. Place Perron on the right half boards to cut into the slot and create. The shifty winger will be able to knife to the middle or quickly pass into the front or cross-ice entirely. Sit down Brewer, and keep Backman. He’s a better passer than Brewer and doesn’t get his shots blocked like Eric seems to all the time. He needs a long chance here, because if he can’t impact this he won’t impact much for the Note down the stretch.

AM said it: "You can use different guys, but you don't all of the sudden turn a 10-goal scorer loose on the power play," he said. "When guys are career 10-goal scorers, that's what they are."So why is Jamal Mayers on the PP? Contradicting oneself in the same interview makes fans question your logic, Andy! Desperation is a stinky cologne.

AM is right when he says our puck pursuit on the PP is lacking. Even if we go in for the puck we seem to be losing most of the battles along the boards. The Blues really need guys like Backes, Walt, and McDonald to push the forecheck and win the puck along the boards.
Carolina tomorrow night! I’ll have pre-game thoughts some time tomorrow, so until then!

First Post, First Blog, New Year

2008-01-04T01:19:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year Blues fans, and all other hockey fans, too. Just wanted to say hello and get this first one out of the way. I plan on blogging pre and post game analysis of some sort for every Blues game remaining, but sometimes life makes things like that difficult. Besides you might not like what I'm writing anyway and then you won't care if I miss one or two, right?

Let me start this blog off with a few generalities about the Blues from my perspective:

1)I think Andy Murray has done a fine job of jumpstarting this franchise and is a great guy for the turnaround. I do not however, see him as a long term coaching solution for both our youth movement and a Stanley Cup run. On one hand it is impossible not to applaud his accomplishments last season, and on the other it becomes increasingly obvious why he wore out his welcome in L.A.

2)I hate that we traded Doug Weight, and absolutley love that we got Andy McDonald. I was so torn when I heard this (so what if I'm a little sentimental, don't you remember that little inside out split of the D Dougie did that got him into the intro highlight of NHL98? No? Just me huh?) but in the end its a big plus for the Blues. Aging UFA versus prime player with one year left on his contract. No brainer. Just a heart tugger. While I constantly pine for the position I bet being a GM is one of the hardest jobs out there, hands down. That and the Human Genome Project, and Mining.

3)Eric Brewer is as bad as fans think. If the common or casual fan can tell a guy is stinking it up, much less 14-20000 of them, then Andy Murray (AM for short) can stop feeding us these lines about how "he actually played really well." Really. Then again these same fans are shouting "Shoot" every time we hold the puck for longer than 5 seconds on the Power Play (which is abysmal, but we will discuss that leading up to Saturday's contest against Carolina). So maybe its somewhere in the middle. Regardless, he looks like he's overpaid by at least 2 million. Have you seen this guy lose an edge, completely blow out a tire, with no one within 20 feet of him? Thats what 4 million gets you these days...

4)I really am impressed with the way this ownership group has taken a hold of the franchise and steered it back on course. They have been both bold and creative and the fans have responded. But the free food game promotion sucked last year. Good idea, got me in the door (I would have been there anyway, but I was still stoked) and viola! it was almost inedible. Those hot dogs were sick looking and were lukewarm at best. I repressed my other culinary experiences there that day. Do it right or don't do it at all. Taking out the food we expect and replacing it with dorm/penetentiary dogs does not a gift of goodwill make.

Thats all for now! Check back in on Saturday for my pregame thoughts on Carolina and Power Play talk...