As the numbers roll in on the final day of the Regina Pool of the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship, all indicators point to another successful event for Regina.
"We were confident all along that our community would put on a tremendous show for the world and our results to date support this," says John Lee, Chair of Regina Host Organizing Committee.
With two pool games still to play in Regina on December 31, some of the early results include:
∙ 65,000 tickets sold after 10 games, or roughly 87 per cent of total tickets available
∙ Three sellouts in the Regina Pool after 10 games
∙ Second largest gate ever for a World Junior Championship (both Regina and Saskatoon included), second only to Ottawa in 2009
∙ More than $170,000 worth of merchandise sold in Regina alone from Dec. 14-29
∙ More than $100,000 paid out in 50/50 draws at the Brandt Centre alone to lucky fans from Regina, Pilot Butte, Estevan, Broadview, Saskatoon and Taylor, British Columbia
"We have so many people to thank for their effort and hard work in making this event a success," says Lee. "This includes the host organizing committee, our business community, sponsors, suppliers, partners, Saskatchewan hockey community and the 800 volunteers who proudly represented our city and province in playing host to the world.
"We're receiving very kind feedback from visitors and all volunteers should feel proud of how they've made everyone feel welcome to our city."
Today's lineup features a first place showdown between Sweden and Finland at 1:00 p.m.
At 5:00 p.m. the Czech Republic and Russia battle for a spot in the medal round in the final
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Linesman Critical After Neck Cut While Breaking Up Fight
A 25-year old linesman is reportedly in critical condition after his neck was cut by a skate while he was trying to break up a fight on Tuesday.
Kevin Brown, 25, was cut during a Junior C game in Woodstock, Ontario between the New Hamburg Firebirds and the Woodstock Renegades. According to London, Ontario radio station AM980, Brown is listed in critical condition in hospital.
The incident took place when the two players fell to the ice. Woodstock's Craig Thomson reportedly threw New Hamburg's Reid Oliver to the ice, and Oliver's skate caught the linesman under the chin strap as he went down.
The linesman continued to try to break up the fight, but soon realized the injury he had suffered and covering the wound, skated to the Firebirds' bench.
"I saw the skate go up and (Brown) grabbed his neck right away," fellow linesman Bruce Byers told the QMI news agency afterwards. "You knew he was leaking. I told the guys on the ice, 'It's done.'"
Kevin Brown, 25, was cut during a Junior C game in Woodstock, Ontario between the New Hamburg Firebirds and the Woodstock Renegades. According to London, Ontario radio station AM980, Brown is listed in critical condition in hospital.
The incident took place when the two players fell to the ice. Woodstock's Craig Thomson reportedly threw New Hamburg's Reid Oliver to the ice, and Oliver's skate caught the linesman under the chin strap as he went down.
The linesman continued to try to break up the fight, but soon realized the injury he had suffered and covering the wound, skated to the Firebirds' bench.
"I saw the skate go up and (Brown) grabbed his neck right away," fellow linesman Bruce Byers told the QMI news agency afterwards. "You knew he was leaking. I told the guys on the ice, 'It's done.'"
Team Canada Names Olympic Roster 2010
Forwards:
Patrice Bergeron, L'Ancienne-Lorette, Que. (Boston Bruins)
Sidney Crosby, Cole Harbour, N.S. (Pittsburgh Penguins) Alternate captain
Ryan Getzlaf, Regina, Sask. (Anaheim Ducks)
Dany Heatley, Calgary, Alta. (San Jose Sharks)
Jarome Iginla, St. Albert, Alta. (Calgary Flames) Alternate captain
Patrick Marleau, Aneroid Sask. (San Jose Sharks)
Brenden Morrow, Carlyle, Sask. (Dallas Stars)
Rick Nash, Brampton, Ont. (Columbus Blue Jackets)
Mike Richards, Kenora, Ont. (Philadelphia Flyers)
Corey Perry, Peterborough, Ont. (Anaheim Ducks)
Eric Staal, Thunder Bay, Ont. (Carolina Hurricanes)
Joe Thornton, St. Thomas, Ont. (San Jose Sharks)
Jonathan Toews, Winnipeg, Man. (Chicago Blackhawks)
Defence:
Dan Boyle, Ottawa, Ont. (San Jose Sharks)
Drew Doughty, Ottawa, Ont. (LA Kings)
Duncan Keith, Penticton, B.C. (Chicago Blackhawks)
Scott Niedermayer, Cranbrook, B.C. (Anaheim Ducks) - Captain
Chris Pronger, Dryden, Ont. (Philadelphia Flyers) - Alternate captain
Brent Seabrook, Tsawwassen, B.C. (Chicago Blackhawks)
Shea Weber, Sicamous, B.C. (Nashville Predators)
Goaltenders:
Roberto Luongo, Montreal, Que. (Vancouver Canucks)
Martin Brodeur, Montreal, Que. (New Jersey Devils)
Marc-Andre Fleury, Sorel, Que. (Pittsburgh Penguins)
I will have more of a break down on Team Canada Olympic Roster as we get closer to the Olympics. I will say this for now Patrick Marleau,Corey Perry,Drew Doughty,Chris Pronger should not have made the cut. Even Mike Richards and Dan Boyle are question marks in my books to be on the team.
Patrice Bergeron, L'Ancienne-Lorette, Que. (Boston Bruins)
Sidney Crosby, Cole Harbour, N.S. (Pittsburgh Penguins) Alternate captain
Ryan Getzlaf, Regina, Sask. (Anaheim Ducks)
Dany Heatley, Calgary, Alta. (San Jose Sharks)
Jarome Iginla, St. Albert, Alta. (Calgary Flames) Alternate captain
Patrick Marleau, Aneroid Sask. (San Jose Sharks)
Brenden Morrow, Carlyle, Sask. (Dallas Stars)
Rick Nash, Brampton, Ont. (Columbus Blue Jackets)
Mike Richards, Kenora, Ont. (Philadelphia Flyers)
Corey Perry, Peterborough, Ont. (Anaheim Ducks)
Eric Staal, Thunder Bay, Ont. (Carolina Hurricanes)
Joe Thornton, St. Thomas, Ont. (San Jose Sharks)
Jonathan Toews, Winnipeg, Man. (Chicago Blackhawks)
Defence:
Dan Boyle, Ottawa, Ont. (San Jose Sharks)
Drew Doughty, Ottawa, Ont. (LA Kings)
Duncan Keith, Penticton, B.C. (Chicago Blackhawks)
Scott Niedermayer, Cranbrook, B.C. (Anaheim Ducks) - Captain
Chris Pronger, Dryden, Ont. (Philadelphia Flyers) - Alternate captain
Brent Seabrook, Tsawwassen, B.C. (Chicago Blackhawks)
Shea Weber, Sicamous, B.C. (Nashville Predators)
Goaltenders:
Roberto Luongo, Montreal, Que. (Vancouver Canucks)
Martin Brodeur, Montreal, Que. (New Jersey Devils)
Marc-Andre Fleury, Sorel, Que. (Pittsburgh Penguins)
I will have more of a break down on Team Canada Olympic Roster as we get closer to the Olympics. I will say this for now Patrick Marleau,Corey Perry,Drew Doughty,Chris Pronger should not have made the cut. Even Mike Richards and Dan Boyle are question marks in my books to be on the team.
And no Vincent Lecavlier, no Martin St. Louis and no Mike Fisher up front. While no Mike Green, no Dion Phaneuf and no Jay Bouwmeester on the blue line. I just hope that Steve Yzerman and co. didn't put to much stock into some of these guys.
WHL Eastern Conference Mid-Season Review
The 2009-10 Western Hockey League season is at the midway point with teams having played roughly half of their regular season schedules, and it's time to take a look at how the season has shaped up so far.The Eastern Conference is proving to be stacked with strong teams, particularly in the East Division, where all six teams are currently in playoff position. The Calgary Hitmen are two-time defending champs of both the Central Division and Eastern Conference, and again look like a contender to repeat. Yet, the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup host Brandon Wheat Kings and East Division rival the Saskatoon Blades, along with perennial Central Division strength Medicine Hat Tigers, have certainly made it clear that the battle for Eastern Conference supremacy will be a competitive one.
Here’s a look at the WHL’s Eastern Conference teams through the 2009-10 season’s first half
(WHL Western Conference Mid-Season Review to be released tomorrow):
WHL EASTERN CONFERENCE
East Division
Brandon Wheat Kings 2009-10 record:
38gp 25-11-0-2, 52pts (2nd in Div., 3rd in Conf.)
GF: 163
GA: 118
Top Scorers:
Matt Calvert 34gp-25g-29a-54pts
Brayden Schenn 31gp-14g-35a-49pts
Jay Fehr 38gp-19g-28a-47pts
A quick start – three shutouts in their first four games – led to an up-and-down October for the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup host Wheat Kings. Yet, after a successful U.S. Division road swing at the end of October, the Wheat Kings have come on strong and showed the type of play everyone knew they were capable of. Offensively, few have been able to match the firepower of the Wheat Kings. Matt Calvert, Brayden Schenn, Jay Fehr, Aaron Lewadniuk, Scott Glennie, Colby Robak and Toni Rajala have all scored at a point-per-game pace or better while the recent acquisition of Shayne Wiebe from Kamloops adds another veteran offensive presence to an already formidable attack that has averaged nearly five goals per game since the beginning of November. Defensively, the Wheat Kings have been in the middle of the pack among Eastern Conference teams, while their penalty killing ranks 19th among the WHL’s 22 teams. However, with an offense as prolific as the Wheat Kings’, defense isn’t as much of a concern. In goal, the acquisition of Philadelphia Flyers prospect Jacob DeSerres from Seattle early in the season to share duties with Andrew Hayes gives the Wheaties two veteran netminders with plenty of experience and ability.
Moose Jaw Warriors 2009-10 record:
35gp 17-15-1-2, 37pts (5th in Div., 9th in Conf.)
GF: 129
GA: 121Top Scorers:
Travis Hamonic 31gp-10g-29a-39pts
Brendan Rowinski 35pg-19g-19a-38pts
Quinton Howden 35gp-15g-19a-34pts
The Warriors have shown improvement from last season. Although they have cooled lately, they currently find themselves in the thick of the playoff race in the Eastern Conference. Offensively, the Warriors have gotten plenty of scoring from forwards Brendan Rowinski and Quinton Howden, while rookie Antonin Honejsek and veteran Dylan Hood have also chipped in. The loss of veteran Jason Bast to injury has hurt the Warriors’ attack. Defenseman Travis Hamonic has been terrific through the first half, and leads the Warriors and all WHL defensemen in scoring. The Warriors are also much-improves on the defensive end and lowered their goals-against from last season’s pace. Reliable goaltending from Jeff Bosch and Brandon Glover have helped the Warriors improve what was the WHL’s bottom-ranked defense last season. The Warriors have been a bit streaky this season, and will look for more consistency in their play over the second half as they battle for a playoff spot in a competitive Eastern Conference.
Prince Albert Raiders 2009-10 record:
39gp 20-16-1-2, 43pts (3rd in Div., 5th in Conf.)
GF: 138
GA: 128Top Scorers:
Craig McCallum 39gp-17g-27a-44pts
Brandon Herrod 39gp-23g-17a-40pts
Igor Revenko 33gp-19g-20a-39pts
The Raiders have put forth a strong first half to the season, and are now in good position to end their two-year playoff drought. Offensively, the Raiders have benefitted from good scoring depth, with six forwards having notched 30 or more points already this season. Veteran Craig McCallum has enjoyed a breakout campaign since coming to Prince Albert from Edmonton, while sophomore Igor Revenko has been a consistent offensive threat all season, as has veteran Brandon Herrod, who has a career-high 23 goals already. On the back end, Jordan Rowley, Ryan Button and Nathan Deck have helped keep the Raiders in the middle of the pack, defensively, while contributing offense as well. Goaltender Garrett Zemlak has been a workhorse, facing more shots than any other goalie in the WHL while posting a very respectable .915 save percentage. Zemlak has been a key factor in the Raiders’ strong first-half performance. A solid home-ice record has helped the Raiders remain in the playoff hunt. However, they will need to find a way to win consistently on the road through the second half of the season.
Regina Pats 2009-10 record:
39gp 16-20-3-0, 35pts (6th in Div., 10th in Conf.)
GF: 136
GA: 147
Top Scorers:
Jordan Eberle 28gp-29g-31a-60pts
Jordan Weal 39gp-18g-34a-52pts
Brett Leffler 38gp-12g-19a-31pts
The Pats have been a tough Club to figure out through the first half of the 2009-10 season. At times, the Pats have looked dominant, while at other times, they have been dominated. Yet, they currently find themselves not far out of the race for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Offensively, there hasn’t been a more dominant player in the League than Jordan Eberle. The 19-year-old has scored at a goal-per-game pace and has averaged better than two points per game. Eberle, along with sophomore Jordan Weal and veterans Brett Leffler and Matt Strueby have carried the team, offensively. The acquisition of NHL prospect Carter Ashton should add more scoring depth and a big presence up front. On the defensive end, the team has allowed the most goals of any team in the Eastern Conference. Rookie Brandon Davidson has been excellent at both ends of the rink, leading the team by a landslide with a +18 rating while chipping in 23 points. More will be needed from veterans Colten Teubert, Cody Carlson and Matt Delahey it the Pats are to improve their defensive play. Goaltenders Damien Ketlo and Dawson Guhle will also need to step up their play if the Pats are to climb the Eastern Conference ranks.
Saskatoon Blades 2009-10 record:
35gp 24-7-1-3, 52pts (1st in Div., 2nd in Conf.)
GF: 123
GA: 93
Top Scorers:
Derek Hulak 35gp-16g-29a-45pts
Walker Wintoneak 35gp-17g-22a-39pts
Stefan Elliott 35gp-11g-21a-32pts
The Blades have been one of the WHL’s best and most consistent teams since the start of the 2009-10 season. Up front, the Blades’ offense has been effective, but not overwhelming. Derek Hulak and Walker Wintoneak have provided consistent scoring among forwards, while Gaelan Patterson has also topped the 30-point plateau. However, more scoring will be expected from the likes of Burke Gallimore, Jeremy Boyer, Travis Toomey and Curtis Hamilton if the Blades are to compete offensively with the Wheat Kings. Defensively, there hasn’t been a stronger team in the Eastern Conference than the Blades. The team has allowed a Conference-low 98 goals while owning the Conference’s top-ranked penalty killing unit. Stefan Elliott has been strong at both ends of the ice, providing offense while sharing the team lead with a +24 rating along with the defensive-minded Sam Klassen. In goal, Adam Morrison and early-season acquisition Steve Stanford have provided an excellent combination. Both are among the WHL’s top netminders in goals-against average. With few glaring weaknesses, the Blades will look to continue their quest for a second straight East Division crown in the season’s second half.
Swift Current Broncos 2009-10 record:
38gp 19-17-0-2, 40pts (4th in Div., 7th in Conf.)
GF: 130
GA: 133
Top Scorers:
Cody Eakin 36gp-27g-20a-47pts
Justin Dowling 38gp-19g-27a-46pts
Stepan Novotny 35gp-19g-17a-36pts
The Broncos may have slipped a bit from their position at this time last season, but they remain a team very much in the playoff race in the Eastern Conference. Offensively, the Broncos have been led by Cody Eakin, who has already pumped in a career-high 27 goals through half a season. Veteran playmaker Justin Dowling has also produced at a consistent level while Stepan Novotny has maintained a point-per-game average this season. 16-year-old rookie Adam Lowry has also stepped in to contribute, and currently leads the team with an impressive +10 rating. The return of sniper Matt Tassone should help boost the team’s scoring in the second half. Defensively, the Broncos have surrendered the second-most goals of any team currently in a playoff position in the conference. However, their penalty killing has been strong, currently ranking sixth in the WHL. Goaltender Mark Friesen has been good in eight appearances since coming over from Chilliwack, but more consistency is needed from veteran Morgan Clark. Perhaps the biggest issue for the Broncos has been their play on the road. The Broncos didn’t manage their first road win until November 21st. However, with a 5-4 road record since their first road win, the Broncos may have sorted out that issue.
Central Division
Calgary Hitmen 2009-10 record: 37gp 26-9-1-1, 54pts (1st in Div., 1st in Conf.)
GF: 134
GA: 105
Top Scorers:
Brandon Kozun 33gp-19g-44a-63pts
Joel Broda 34gp-20g-22a-42pts
Michael Stone 37gp-13g-24a-37pts
After last season’s record-setting campaign for the franchise, the Hitmen were tabbed to slip back in the pack a bit this season. However, the Hitmen have once again defied expectations and find themselves owners of the WHL’s best record at the 2009-10 season’s midway point. Up front, the Hitmen may not be the offensive juggernaut they were last year, but they’ve still boast an offense that ranks among the WHL’s top five. Brandon Kozun has been a force this season, leading the WHL in assists and points, while Joel Broda has started to pick up his offensive game, lately. Much of the team’s offense comes from their top-ranked power play, which has produced 55 of their 134 goals. Tyler Fiddler and Ian Schultz are both on pace to top the 30-goal mark this season. The Hitmen also find themselves among the top five defensive teams in the League, and boast the fifth-ranked penalty killing unit. Michael Stone has been scoring at a point-per-game rate and leads the defense corps with a +13 rating while Matt MacKenzie, Austin Madaisky, Ben Wilson and recently-acquired Giffen Nyren have added a good blend of offense and defensive strength. In goal, the Hitmen have received quality netminding from veteran Martin Jones and sophomore Michael Snider, who has performed admirably in his second season.
Edmonton Oil Kings2009-10 record:
38gp 10-20-4-4, 28pts (5th in Div., 11th in Conf.)
GF: 94
GA: 142
Top Scorers:
Brent Raedeke 38gp-17g-13a-30pts
Tomas Vincour 32gp-16g-9a-25pts
Mark Pysyk 31gp-6g-14a-20pts
The Oil Kings started the 2009-10 season strong, posting a 5-3-2 record over their first 10 games of the season. However, the team has struggled since, managing just five wins in their next 28 games up to the break, and now sit 10 points adrift in the race for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Up front, the Oil Kings have struggled to generate scoring, and have been held to two or fewer goals in 23 of their 38 games. In addition, their power play ranks 22nd in the WHL. Brent Raedeke and Tomas Vincour lead the team in goals with 17 and 16, respectively, but no other player has scored more than nine times. 16-year-old rookie Michael St. Croix has been good, and has shown the potential to become a top-notch offensive player for the Oil Kings down the road. Defensively, the Oil Kings have given up the fourth-highest number of goals per game of any WHL team. Sophomore Mark Pysyk has been a force at both ends of the rink, and is showing why he’s one of the League’s top-rated NHL draft-eligible prospects. However, the team will need to be stronger defensively if they are to climb up the Eastern Conference standings. In addition, the goaltending duo of Torrie Jung and Cam Lanigan will need to see improvement in their play if the Oil Kings are to tighten up their goals-against.
Kootenay Ice 2009-10 record:
37gp 19-15-1-2, 41pts (3rd in Div., 6th in Conf.)
GF: 126
GA: 116
Top Scorers:
Dustin Sylvester 34gp-18g-27a-45pts
Steele Boomer 36gp-13g-26a-39pts
Brayden McNabb 29gp-11g-24a-35pts
The Kootenay Ice endured a rocky start to the 2009-10 season and, at one point, found themselves five games under the .500 mark. However, having posted a 13-4-1-2 record since October 30th, the Ice have pulled themselves back into the playoff picture in the Conference. Up front, the Ice find have been average, offensively. Dustin Sylvester, once again, is the team’s offensive catalyst, whose recent strong play has coincided with the team’s turnaround. The 20-year-old has racked up 13 goals and 33 points in 20 games since the start of November. Veteran Steele Boomer is producing consistently, averaging over a point-per-game, while fellow vets Kevin King and Matt Fraser have also topped the 10-goal mark. Recently, though, players like Jesse Ismond, Max Reinhart and Joe Antilla have been chipping in, which bodes well for the team’s scoring depth. On the back end, 18-year-old Brayden McNabb has been in dominant form this season, particularly in generating offense from the point. Rearguards Joey Leach and Ryan Molle have helped the Ice remain among the top four defensive teams in the conference, in terms of goals-against. Veteran netminder Todd Mathews has played consistently well, particularly over the last two months where he has posted an 11-3-1-2 mark with a solid .911 save percentage.
Lethbridge Hurricanes 2009-10 record:
34gp 10-20-3-1, 24pts (6th in Div., 12th in Conf.)
GF: 97
GA: 136
Top Scorers:
Carter Bancks 33gp-11g-20a-31pts
Cam Braes 31gp-10g-18a-28pts
Mitch Maxwell 32gp-16g-8a-24pts
Heading into the break, the Hurricanes find themselves in 12th place in the Eastern Conference and 14 points out of a playoff spot. Losing many of their veteran players from last year’s team, the ‘Canes’ younger players are getting plenty of experience and seasoning as they look to the future. Up front, the Hurricanes have relied on veterans Carter Bancks and Cam Braes for offense and leadership, especially after trading their top goal scorer, Carter Ashton, to Regina two weeks ago. 18-year-old rookie Mitch Maxwell has been able to generate scoring in his first WHL campaign, leading the team with 16 goals. However, besides veteran Austin Fyten, no ‘Canes’ player has more than seven goals. Defensively, the ‘Canes’ have struggled. Brennan Yadlowski, Luca Sbisa and the ‘Canes’ defense corps are a combined -7 this season, which isn’t bad. However, the team’s penalty killing, which ranks 20th in the WHL, has hurt them. With veteran netminder Linden Rowat injured, the ‘Canes have struggled in goal. Neither Brandon Anderson nor Ville Kolppanen have a save percentage better than .890, nor a goals-against average lower than 3.50.
Medicine Hat Tigers 2009-10 record:
39gp 22-11-2-4, 50pts (2nd in Div., 4th in Conf.)
GF: 162
GA: 137
Top Scorers:
Bretton Cameron 39gp-26g-20a-46pts
Wacey Hamilton 35gp-11g-31a-42pts
Emerson Etem 39gp-27g-12a-39pts
The Tigers have enjoyed a strong first half of the 2009-10 season and currently find themselves comfortably in second place in the Central Division and fourth in the Eastern Conference. The biggest factor in the Tigers’ first-half success has been their potent offense, which currently ranks second among WHL Clubs. Veteran Bretton Cameron and impressive 17-year-old rookie Emerson Etem are ranked among the League’s top five goal scorers, while the Tigers boast six others who have already topped the 10-goal mark. On the back end, the Tigers have gotten plenty of offense from Mark Isherwood and Jace Coyle. However, the Tigers have allowed 137 goals this season, which is the most of any Eastern Conference team currently in a playoff position. As long as the Tigers’ offense keeps clicking, the goals-against won’t be as much of a concern. In goal, sophomore Tyler Bunz has been steady in taking on the majority of the workload. Although he may not be among the WHL’s top ten goalies in GAA or save percentage, Bunz ranks second in the League with 18 wins. With a seven-point cushion for fourth place in the Eastern Conference, the Tigers are in good shape to earn their eighth consecutive post-season berth.
Red Deer Rebels 2009-10 record:
35gp 18-15-0-2, 38pts (4th in Div., 8th in Conf.)
GF: 107
GA: 113
Top Scorers:
Willie Coetzee 35gp-16g-31a-47pts
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins 35gp-17g-19a-36pts
Andrej Kudrna 33gp-15g-16a-31pts
The Rebels have enjoyed a moderately successful first half to the 2009-10 WHL season, and currently find themselves holding down eighth place in the Eastern Conference. Offensively, the Rebels currently rank 10th in the Eastern Conference, and have the lowest number of goals of any team currently in a playoff spot. Veteran Willie Coetzee has enjoyed a breakout campaign, offensively, and currently ranks among the WHL’s top scorers. 16-year-old rookie phenom Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has been a key part of the Rebels’ attack, while Andrej Kudrna has also been a consistent contributor. However, offensive depth has been lacking for the Rebels. Part of the problem has been injuries to key offensive players like Nathan Green and Landon Ferraro. The Rebels have made up for their offensive shortcomings with a strong and stingy defense. The team ranks fifth in the Eastern Conference in goals-against, despite a penalty killing unit that ranks 13th in the WHL. Team captain Colin Archer has been steady in the defensive zone, and leads all Rebels’ blue liners with a +7 rating. Veteran netminder Darcy Kuemper has provided reliable goaltending, while Kraymer Barnstable has posted a 6-1 record in 11 appearances.
Here’s a look at the WHL’s Eastern Conference teams through the 2009-10 season’s first half
(WHL Western Conference Mid-Season Review to be released tomorrow):
WHL EASTERN CONFERENCE
East Division
Brandon Wheat Kings 2009-10 record:
38gp 25-11-0-2, 52pts (2nd in Div., 3rd in Conf.)
GF: 163
GA: 118
Top Scorers:
Matt Calvert 34gp-25g-29a-54pts
Brayden Schenn 31gp-14g-35a-49pts
Jay Fehr 38gp-19g-28a-47pts
A quick start – three shutouts in their first four games – led to an up-and-down October for the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup host Wheat Kings. Yet, after a successful U.S. Division road swing at the end of October, the Wheat Kings have come on strong and showed the type of play everyone knew they were capable of. Offensively, few have been able to match the firepower of the Wheat Kings. Matt Calvert, Brayden Schenn, Jay Fehr, Aaron Lewadniuk, Scott Glennie, Colby Robak and Toni Rajala have all scored at a point-per-game pace or better while the recent acquisition of Shayne Wiebe from Kamloops adds another veteran offensive presence to an already formidable attack that has averaged nearly five goals per game since the beginning of November. Defensively, the Wheat Kings have been in the middle of the pack among Eastern Conference teams, while their penalty killing ranks 19th among the WHL’s 22 teams. However, with an offense as prolific as the Wheat Kings’, defense isn’t as much of a concern. In goal, the acquisition of Philadelphia Flyers prospect Jacob DeSerres from Seattle early in the season to share duties with Andrew Hayes gives the Wheaties two veteran netminders with plenty of experience and ability.
Moose Jaw Warriors 2009-10 record:
35gp 17-15-1-2, 37pts (5th in Div., 9th in Conf.)
GF: 129
GA: 121Top Scorers:
Travis Hamonic 31gp-10g-29a-39pts
Brendan Rowinski 35pg-19g-19a-38pts
Quinton Howden 35gp-15g-19a-34pts
The Warriors have shown improvement from last season. Although they have cooled lately, they currently find themselves in the thick of the playoff race in the Eastern Conference. Offensively, the Warriors have gotten plenty of scoring from forwards Brendan Rowinski and Quinton Howden, while rookie Antonin Honejsek and veteran Dylan Hood have also chipped in. The loss of veteran Jason Bast to injury has hurt the Warriors’ attack. Defenseman Travis Hamonic has been terrific through the first half, and leads the Warriors and all WHL defensemen in scoring. The Warriors are also much-improves on the defensive end and lowered their goals-against from last season’s pace. Reliable goaltending from Jeff Bosch and Brandon Glover have helped the Warriors improve what was the WHL’s bottom-ranked defense last season. The Warriors have been a bit streaky this season, and will look for more consistency in their play over the second half as they battle for a playoff spot in a competitive Eastern Conference.
Prince Albert Raiders 2009-10 record:
39gp 20-16-1-2, 43pts (3rd in Div., 5th in Conf.)
GF: 138
GA: 128Top Scorers:
Craig McCallum 39gp-17g-27a-44pts
Brandon Herrod 39gp-23g-17a-40pts
Igor Revenko 33gp-19g-20a-39pts
The Raiders have put forth a strong first half to the season, and are now in good position to end their two-year playoff drought. Offensively, the Raiders have benefitted from good scoring depth, with six forwards having notched 30 or more points already this season. Veteran Craig McCallum has enjoyed a breakout campaign since coming to Prince Albert from Edmonton, while sophomore Igor Revenko has been a consistent offensive threat all season, as has veteran Brandon Herrod, who has a career-high 23 goals already. On the back end, Jordan Rowley, Ryan Button and Nathan Deck have helped keep the Raiders in the middle of the pack, defensively, while contributing offense as well. Goaltender Garrett Zemlak has been a workhorse, facing more shots than any other goalie in the WHL while posting a very respectable .915 save percentage. Zemlak has been a key factor in the Raiders’ strong first-half performance. A solid home-ice record has helped the Raiders remain in the playoff hunt. However, they will need to find a way to win consistently on the road through the second half of the season.
Regina Pats 2009-10 record:
39gp 16-20-3-0, 35pts (6th in Div., 10th in Conf.)
GF: 136
GA: 147
Top Scorers:
Jordan Eberle 28gp-29g-31a-60pts
Jordan Weal 39gp-18g-34a-52pts
Brett Leffler 38gp-12g-19a-31pts
The Pats have been a tough Club to figure out through the first half of the 2009-10 season. At times, the Pats have looked dominant, while at other times, they have been dominated. Yet, they currently find themselves not far out of the race for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Offensively, there hasn’t been a more dominant player in the League than Jordan Eberle. The 19-year-old has scored at a goal-per-game pace and has averaged better than two points per game. Eberle, along with sophomore Jordan Weal and veterans Brett Leffler and Matt Strueby have carried the team, offensively. The acquisition of NHL prospect Carter Ashton should add more scoring depth and a big presence up front. On the defensive end, the team has allowed the most goals of any team in the Eastern Conference. Rookie Brandon Davidson has been excellent at both ends of the rink, leading the team by a landslide with a +18 rating while chipping in 23 points. More will be needed from veterans Colten Teubert, Cody Carlson and Matt Delahey it the Pats are to improve their defensive play. Goaltenders Damien Ketlo and Dawson Guhle will also need to step up their play if the Pats are to climb the Eastern Conference ranks.
Saskatoon Blades 2009-10 record:
35gp 24-7-1-3, 52pts (1st in Div., 2nd in Conf.)
GF: 123
GA: 93
Top Scorers:
Derek Hulak 35gp-16g-29a-45pts
Walker Wintoneak 35gp-17g-22a-39pts
Stefan Elliott 35gp-11g-21a-32pts
The Blades have been one of the WHL’s best and most consistent teams since the start of the 2009-10 season. Up front, the Blades’ offense has been effective, but not overwhelming. Derek Hulak and Walker Wintoneak have provided consistent scoring among forwards, while Gaelan Patterson has also topped the 30-point plateau. However, more scoring will be expected from the likes of Burke Gallimore, Jeremy Boyer, Travis Toomey and Curtis Hamilton if the Blades are to compete offensively with the Wheat Kings. Defensively, there hasn’t been a stronger team in the Eastern Conference than the Blades. The team has allowed a Conference-low 98 goals while owning the Conference’s top-ranked penalty killing unit. Stefan Elliott has been strong at both ends of the ice, providing offense while sharing the team lead with a +24 rating along with the defensive-minded Sam Klassen. In goal, Adam Morrison and early-season acquisition Steve Stanford have provided an excellent combination. Both are among the WHL’s top netminders in goals-against average. With few glaring weaknesses, the Blades will look to continue their quest for a second straight East Division crown in the season’s second half.
Swift Current Broncos 2009-10 record:
38gp 19-17-0-2, 40pts (4th in Div., 7th in Conf.)
GF: 130
GA: 133
Top Scorers:
Cody Eakin 36gp-27g-20a-47pts
Justin Dowling 38gp-19g-27a-46pts
Stepan Novotny 35gp-19g-17a-36pts
The Broncos may have slipped a bit from their position at this time last season, but they remain a team very much in the playoff race in the Eastern Conference. Offensively, the Broncos have been led by Cody Eakin, who has already pumped in a career-high 27 goals through half a season. Veteran playmaker Justin Dowling has also produced at a consistent level while Stepan Novotny has maintained a point-per-game average this season. 16-year-old rookie Adam Lowry has also stepped in to contribute, and currently leads the team with an impressive +10 rating. The return of sniper Matt Tassone should help boost the team’s scoring in the second half. Defensively, the Broncos have surrendered the second-most goals of any team currently in a playoff position in the conference. However, their penalty killing has been strong, currently ranking sixth in the WHL. Goaltender Mark Friesen has been good in eight appearances since coming over from Chilliwack, but more consistency is needed from veteran Morgan Clark. Perhaps the biggest issue for the Broncos has been their play on the road. The Broncos didn’t manage their first road win until November 21st. However, with a 5-4 road record since their first road win, the Broncos may have sorted out that issue.
Central Division
Calgary Hitmen 2009-10 record: 37gp 26-9-1-1, 54pts (1st in Div., 1st in Conf.)
GF: 134
GA: 105
Top Scorers:
Brandon Kozun 33gp-19g-44a-63pts
Joel Broda 34gp-20g-22a-42pts
Michael Stone 37gp-13g-24a-37pts
After last season’s record-setting campaign for the franchise, the Hitmen were tabbed to slip back in the pack a bit this season. However, the Hitmen have once again defied expectations and find themselves owners of the WHL’s best record at the 2009-10 season’s midway point. Up front, the Hitmen may not be the offensive juggernaut they were last year, but they’ve still boast an offense that ranks among the WHL’s top five. Brandon Kozun has been a force this season, leading the WHL in assists and points, while Joel Broda has started to pick up his offensive game, lately. Much of the team’s offense comes from their top-ranked power play, which has produced 55 of their 134 goals. Tyler Fiddler and Ian Schultz are both on pace to top the 30-goal mark this season. The Hitmen also find themselves among the top five defensive teams in the League, and boast the fifth-ranked penalty killing unit. Michael Stone has been scoring at a point-per-game rate and leads the defense corps with a +13 rating while Matt MacKenzie, Austin Madaisky, Ben Wilson and recently-acquired Giffen Nyren have added a good blend of offense and defensive strength. In goal, the Hitmen have received quality netminding from veteran Martin Jones and sophomore Michael Snider, who has performed admirably in his second season.
Edmonton Oil Kings2009-10 record:
38gp 10-20-4-4, 28pts (5th in Div., 11th in Conf.)
GF: 94
GA: 142
Top Scorers:
Brent Raedeke 38gp-17g-13a-30pts
Tomas Vincour 32gp-16g-9a-25pts
Mark Pysyk 31gp-6g-14a-20pts
The Oil Kings started the 2009-10 season strong, posting a 5-3-2 record over their first 10 games of the season. However, the team has struggled since, managing just five wins in their next 28 games up to the break, and now sit 10 points adrift in the race for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Up front, the Oil Kings have struggled to generate scoring, and have been held to two or fewer goals in 23 of their 38 games. In addition, their power play ranks 22nd in the WHL. Brent Raedeke and Tomas Vincour lead the team in goals with 17 and 16, respectively, but no other player has scored more than nine times. 16-year-old rookie Michael St. Croix has been good, and has shown the potential to become a top-notch offensive player for the Oil Kings down the road. Defensively, the Oil Kings have given up the fourth-highest number of goals per game of any WHL team. Sophomore Mark Pysyk has been a force at both ends of the rink, and is showing why he’s one of the League’s top-rated NHL draft-eligible prospects. However, the team will need to be stronger defensively if they are to climb up the Eastern Conference standings. In addition, the goaltending duo of Torrie Jung and Cam Lanigan will need to see improvement in their play if the Oil Kings are to tighten up their goals-against.
Kootenay Ice 2009-10 record:
37gp 19-15-1-2, 41pts (3rd in Div., 6th in Conf.)
GF: 126
GA: 116
Top Scorers:
Dustin Sylvester 34gp-18g-27a-45pts
Steele Boomer 36gp-13g-26a-39pts
Brayden McNabb 29gp-11g-24a-35pts
The Kootenay Ice endured a rocky start to the 2009-10 season and, at one point, found themselves five games under the .500 mark. However, having posted a 13-4-1-2 record since October 30th, the Ice have pulled themselves back into the playoff picture in the Conference. Up front, the Ice find have been average, offensively. Dustin Sylvester, once again, is the team’s offensive catalyst, whose recent strong play has coincided with the team’s turnaround. The 20-year-old has racked up 13 goals and 33 points in 20 games since the start of November. Veteran Steele Boomer is producing consistently, averaging over a point-per-game, while fellow vets Kevin King and Matt Fraser have also topped the 10-goal mark. Recently, though, players like Jesse Ismond, Max Reinhart and Joe Antilla have been chipping in, which bodes well for the team’s scoring depth. On the back end, 18-year-old Brayden McNabb has been in dominant form this season, particularly in generating offense from the point. Rearguards Joey Leach and Ryan Molle have helped the Ice remain among the top four defensive teams in the conference, in terms of goals-against. Veteran netminder Todd Mathews has played consistently well, particularly over the last two months where he has posted an 11-3-1-2 mark with a solid .911 save percentage.
Lethbridge Hurricanes 2009-10 record:
34gp 10-20-3-1, 24pts (6th in Div., 12th in Conf.)
GF: 97
GA: 136
Top Scorers:
Carter Bancks 33gp-11g-20a-31pts
Cam Braes 31gp-10g-18a-28pts
Mitch Maxwell 32gp-16g-8a-24pts
Heading into the break, the Hurricanes find themselves in 12th place in the Eastern Conference and 14 points out of a playoff spot. Losing many of their veteran players from last year’s team, the ‘Canes’ younger players are getting plenty of experience and seasoning as they look to the future. Up front, the Hurricanes have relied on veterans Carter Bancks and Cam Braes for offense and leadership, especially after trading their top goal scorer, Carter Ashton, to Regina two weeks ago. 18-year-old rookie Mitch Maxwell has been able to generate scoring in his first WHL campaign, leading the team with 16 goals. However, besides veteran Austin Fyten, no ‘Canes’ player has more than seven goals. Defensively, the ‘Canes’ have struggled. Brennan Yadlowski, Luca Sbisa and the ‘Canes’ defense corps are a combined -7 this season, which isn’t bad. However, the team’s penalty killing, which ranks 20th in the WHL, has hurt them. With veteran netminder Linden Rowat injured, the ‘Canes have struggled in goal. Neither Brandon Anderson nor Ville Kolppanen have a save percentage better than .890, nor a goals-against average lower than 3.50.
Medicine Hat Tigers 2009-10 record:
39gp 22-11-2-4, 50pts (2nd in Div., 4th in Conf.)
GF: 162
GA: 137
Top Scorers:
Bretton Cameron 39gp-26g-20a-46pts
Wacey Hamilton 35gp-11g-31a-42pts
Emerson Etem 39gp-27g-12a-39pts
The Tigers have enjoyed a strong first half of the 2009-10 season and currently find themselves comfortably in second place in the Central Division and fourth in the Eastern Conference. The biggest factor in the Tigers’ first-half success has been their potent offense, which currently ranks second among WHL Clubs. Veteran Bretton Cameron and impressive 17-year-old rookie Emerson Etem are ranked among the League’s top five goal scorers, while the Tigers boast six others who have already topped the 10-goal mark. On the back end, the Tigers have gotten plenty of offense from Mark Isherwood and Jace Coyle. However, the Tigers have allowed 137 goals this season, which is the most of any Eastern Conference team currently in a playoff position. As long as the Tigers’ offense keeps clicking, the goals-against won’t be as much of a concern. In goal, sophomore Tyler Bunz has been steady in taking on the majority of the workload. Although he may not be among the WHL’s top ten goalies in GAA or save percentage, Bunz ranks second in the League with 18 wins. With a seven-point cushion for fourth place in the Eastern Conference, the Tigers are in good shape to earn their eighth consecutive post-season berth.
Red Deer Rebels 2009-10 record:
35gp 18-15-0-2, 38pts (4th in Div., 8th in Conf.)
GF: 107
GA: 113
Top Scorers:
Willie Coetzee 35gp-16g-31a-47pts
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins 35gp-17g-19a-36pts
Andrej Kudrna 33gp-15g-16a-31pts
The Rebels have enjoyed a moderately successful first half to the 2009-10 WHL season, and currently find themselves holding down eighth place in the Eastern Conference. Offensively, the Rebels currently rank 10th in the Eastern Conference, and have the lowest number of goals of any team currently in a playoff spot. Veteran Willie Coetzee has enjoyed a breakout campaign, offensively, and currently ranks among the WHL’s top scorers. 16-year-old rookie phenom Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has been a key part of the Rebels’ attack, while Andrej Kudrna has also been a consistent contributor. However, offensive depth has been lacking for the Rebels. Part of the problem has been injuries to key offensive players like Nathan Green and Landon Ferraro. The Rebels have made up for their offensive shortcomings with a strong and stingy defense. The team ranks fifth in the Eastern Conference in goals-against, despite a penalty killing unit that ranks 13th in the WHL. Team captain Colin Archer has been steady in the defensive zone, and leads all Rebels’ blue liners with a +7 rating. Veteran netminder Darcy Kuemper has provided reliable goaltending, while Kraymer Barnstable has posted a 6-1 record in 11 appearances.
Czech Name Olypmic Roster 20110
Goaltenders:
Tomas Vokoun (Florida Panthers/NHL)
Ondrej Pavelec (Atlanta Thrashers/NHL)
Jakub Stepanek (Vitkovice/CZE).
Defence:
Miroslav Blatak (Salavat Yulaev Ufa/RUS)
Jan Hejda (Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL)
Tomas Kaberle (Toronto Maple Leafs/NHL)
Filip Kuba (Ottawa Senators/NHL)
Pavel Kubina (Atlanta Thrashers/NHL)
Zbynek Michalek (Phoenix Coyotes/NHL)
Roman Polak (St Louis Blues/NHL)
Marek Zidlicky (Minnesota Wild/NHL).
Forwards:
Petr Cajanek (Saint-Pétersbourg/RUS)
Roman Cervenka (Slavia Prague/CZE)
Patrik Elias (New Jersey Devils/NHL)
Martin Erat (Nashville Predators/NHL)
Tomas Fleischmann (Washington Capitals/NHL)
Martin Havlat (Minnesota Wild/NHL)
Jaromir Jagr (Avangard Omsk)
David Krejci (Boston Bruins/NHL)
Milan Michalek (Ottawa Senators/NHL)
Tomas Plekanec (Canadiens de Montréal/NHL)
Tomas Rolinek (Magnitogorsk/RUS)
Josef Vasicek (Yaroslavl/RUS).
Tomas Vokoun (Florida Panthers/NHL)
Ondrej Pavelec (Atlanta Thrashers/NHL)
Jakub Stepanek (Vitkovice/CZE).
Defence:
Miroslav Blatak (Salavat Yulaev Ufa/RUS)
Jan Hejda (Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL)
Tomas Kaberle (Toronto Maple Leafs/NHL)
Filip Kuba (Ottawa Senators/NHL)
Pavel Kubina (Atlanta Thrashers/NHL)
Zbynek Michalek (Phoenix Coyotes/NHL)
Roman Polak (St Louis Blues/NHL)
Marek Zidlicky (Minnesota Wild/NHL).
Forwards:
Petr Cajanek (Saint-Pétersbourg/RUS)
Roman Cervenka (Slavia Prague/CZE)
Patrik Elias (New Jersey Devils/NHL)
Martin Erat (Nashville Predators/NHL)
Tomas Fleischmann (Washington Capitals/NHL)
Martin Havlat (Minnesota Wild/NHL)
Jaromir Jagr (Avangard Omsk)
David Krejci (Boston Bruins/NHL)
Milan Michalek (Ottawa Senators/NHL)
Tomas Plekanec (Canadiens de Montréal/NHL)
Tomas Rolinek (Magnitogorsk/RUS)
Josef Vasicek (Yaroslavl/RUS).
Finland Names Olympic Roster 2010
Goaltenders:
Miikka Kiprusoff (Calgary Flames, NHL)
Niklas Bäckström (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Antero Niittymäki (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL)
Defence:
Kimmo Timonen (Philadelphia Flyers, NHL)
Sami Salo (Vancouver Canucks, NHL)
Joni Pitkänen (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Lasse Kukkonen (Avangard Omsk, RUS)
Toni Lydman (Buffalo Sabres, NHL)
Sami Lepistö (Phoenix Coyotes, NHL)
Janne Niskala (Frölunda, SWE)
Forwards:
Mikko Koivu (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Tuomo Ruutu (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Valtteri Filppula (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Teemu Selänne (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Saku Koivu (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Jere Lehtinen (Dallas Stars, NHL)
Niklas Hagman (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL)
Olli Jokinen (Calgary Flames, NHL)
Antti Miettinen (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Jarkko Ruutu (Ottawa Senators, NHL)
Niko Kapanen (Ak Bars Kazan, RUS)
Ville Peltonen (Dynamo Minsk, BLR)
Jarkko Immonen (Ak Bars Kazan, RUS)
Miikka Kiprusoff (Calgary Flames, NHL)
Niklas Bäckström (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Antero Niittymäki (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL)
Defence:
Kimmo Timonen (Philadelphia Flyers, NHL)
Sami Salo (Vancouver Canucks, NHL)
Joni Pitkänen (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Lasse Kukkonen (Avangard Omsk, RUS)
Toni Lydman (Buffalo Sabres, NHL)
Sami Lepistö (Phoenix Coyotes, NHL)
Janne Niskala (Frölunda, SWE)
Forwards:
Mikko Koivu (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Tuomo Ruutu (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Valtteri Filppula (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Teemu Selänne (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Saku Koivu (Anaheim Ducks, NHL)
Jere Lehtinen (Dallas Stars, NHL)
Niklas Hagman (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL)
Olli Jokinen (Calgary Flames, NHL)
Antti Miettinen (Minnesota Wild, NHL)
Jarkko Ruutu (Ottawa Senators, NHL)
Niko Kapanen (Ak Bars Kazan, RUS)
Ville Peltonen (Dynamo Minsk, BLR)
Jarkko Immonen (Ak Bars Kazan, RUS)
Record Audience For Boxing Day Blowout
Preliminary overnight data from BBM Canada confirms Team Canada's 16-0 win over Team Latvia on Saturday, Dec. 26 at the 2010 IIHF WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP delivered a national average audience of 2.5 million viewers, making it the most-watched World Juniors round-robin game ever recorded on TSN.
Team Canada's opening game at this year's tournament is also: ∙
The 3rd most-watched telecast on TSN in 2009, bested only by the 2009 GREY CUP (5.073 million viewers) and 2009 IIHF WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP Gold Medal game (3.7 million viewers)* ∙
The 5th most-watched World Juniors game ever on TSN ∙
The 6th most-watched program on TSN of all time.
Team Canada's opening game at this year's tournament is also: ∙
The 3rd most-watched telecast on TSN in 2009, bested only by the 2009 GREY CUP (5.073 million viewers) and 2009 IIHF WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP Gold Medal game (3.7 million viewers)* ∙
The 5th most-watched World Juniors game ever on TSN ∙
The 6th most-watched program on TSN of all time.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Leave It To Beav
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are set to interview former team G-M Brendan Taman.
The CFL club has permission from Saskatchewan to talk to him about its vice-president of football operations vacancy. Taman spent 10 years with the Bombers before resigning last January.
The CFL club has permission from Saskatchewan to talk to him about its vice-president of football operations vacancy. Taman spent 10 years with the Bombers before resigning last January.
Sweden Names Olympic Roster
Goaltenders:
Jonas Gustavsson (Toronto Maple Leafs/NHL)
Stefan Liv (HV 71)
Henrik Lundqvist (New York Rangers/NHL)
Defence:
Tobias Enstrom (Atlanta Thrashers/NHL)
Magnus Johansson (Linkopings HC)
Niklas Kronwall (Detroit Red Wings/NHL)
Nicklas Lidstrom (Detroit Red Wings/NHL)
Douglas Murray (San Jose Sharks/NHL)
Johnny Oduya (New Jersey Devils/NHL)
Henrik Tallinder (Buffalo Sabres/NHL)
Mattias Ohlund (Tampa Bay Lightning/NHL)
Forwards:
Daniel Alfredsson (Ottawa Senators/NHL)
Nicklas Backstrom (Washington Capitals/NHL)
Loui Eriksson (Dallas Stars/NHL)
Peter Forsberg (MODO Hockey),
Tomas Holmstrom (Detroit Red Wings/NHL)
Patric Hornqvist (Nashville Predators/NHL)
Fredrik Modin (Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL)
Samuel Paahlsson (Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL)
Daniel Sedin (Vancouver Canucks/NHL)
Henrik Sedin (Vancouver Canucks/NHL)
Mattias Weinhandl (Dynamo Moscow/RUS)
Henrik Zetterberg (Detroit Red Wings/NHL)
Jonas Gustavsson (Toronto Maple Leafs/NHL)
Stefan Liv (HV 71)
Henrik Lundqvist (New York Rangers/NHL)
Defence:
Tobias Enstrom (Atlanta Thrashers/NHL)
Magnus Johansson (Linkopings HC)
Niklas Kronwall (Detroit Red Wings/NHL)
Nicklas Lidstrom (Detroit Red Wings/NHL)
Douglas Murray (San Jose Sharks/NHL)
Johnny Oduya (New Jersey Devils/NHL)
Henrik Tallinder (Buffalo Sabres/NHL)
Mattias Ohlund (Tampa Bay Lightning/NHL)
Forwards:
Daniel Alfredsson (Ottawa Senators/NHL)
Nicklas Backstrom (Washington Capitals/NHL)
Loui Eriksson (Dallas Stars/NHL)
Peter Forsberg (MODO Hockey),
Tomas Holmstrom (Detroit Red Wings/NHL)
Patric Hornqvist (Nashville Predators/NHL)
Fredrik Modin (Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL)
Samuel Paahlsson (Columbus Blue Jackets/NHL)
Daniel Sedin (Vancouver Canucks/NHL)
Henrik Sedin (Vancouver Canucks/NHL)
Mattias Weinhandl (Dynamo Moscow/RUS)
Henrik Zetterberg (Detroit Red Wings/NHL)
Top 13 CFL Stories of 2009
As the year comes to a close, there is just enough time to take one more look at some of the top stories from the 2009 CFL season. A quick analysis of attendance, corporate involvement and television ratings would indicate that it could be considered one of the best years in Canadian Football history, or at the very least, one of the most successful seasons in the last two decades.Not all the news from 2009 was good news; like every year in every sport, there were plenty of negative headlines, however, unlike ten years ago the league is now strong enough to not only overcome adversity and hang on, but to continue to excel and grow through that adversity.
At one time or another over 14 million people were watching the Grey Cup Championship which represents close to half the country, indisputable evidence that the 2009 CFL season grabbed the attention of more than just sports fans in Canada.Most lists like this contain ten stories but with the way the Grey Cup ended it seems fitting to go with the top 13 from 2009 in the CFL.
13. Negotiations between the League and the Players Association begin The only reason that this story is last on the list is because the process has just begun, because this negotiation will likely be the most important assignment in Commissioner Mark Cohon's tenure. Most have heard of the rumours that the key issue will be the Canadian ratio, but I doubt it. I would be surprised to see the league push such a patriotically sensitive topic. This story will be told over the next 4 to 6 months and its outcome could move it quickly to the top story of 2010.
12. Ottawa's return to the CFL Again in 2012 or 2013 this story will head the list but for now it is a work in progress. Ottawa city counsel voted 15-9 to go ahead with the Lansdowne Live project under certain conditions, so the process has begun. What is compelling about this story is not just the return of a CFL franchise in Ottawa, which would be mutually beneficial for the city and the League, but who is trying to bring Canadian Football back to the Nations Capital. The Lansdowne Live group is made up of Roger Greenberg, William Shenkman, John Ruddy and fronted by Ottawa 67's owner Jeff Hunt - all of whom are local businessmen and therefore, have a vested interest in making it work. This group is not just about football, they are about improving the city they live in, and that is why this story transcends sports.
11. Regular season game in Moncton It has been talked about for years but in 2009 the announcement to play a regular season game in the Maritimes made it official. The seed has been planted for expansion into Eastern Canada and it is long overdue. In the 2010 season the Argos will play an opponent to be determined in the off-season, in a regular season game, which according to reports, will be the Maritimes' own Grey Cup-like Festival. A ten-team league from coast to coast is still a few years away but at least now there are measures in place to take a real run at it, and that is good news for the country, not just for football fans.
10. Television ratings Yes, the system for counting viewers during a TV show has changed but it has changed for every show and every sport. The CFL numbers have been hard for some to digest for some reason, but they don't lie, and they rival, and at times surpass, NHL numbers in our country. We are a hockey-first Nation and that is not about to change, but the NHL and CFL are now, "one and one-A," in Canada. The CFL has engaged the younger generation - a demographic that was lost in the late 90's due to boardroom issues.
9. Arrrrrrrgos This story is one that definitely falls under the "bad" category, but is not the complete disaster that most make it out to be. Bart Andrus did not work out despite having a fairly impressive resume heading into the job, but he is not the only new coach that didn't pan out. Who will own the Argos in 2010 is the first question that has to be answered in Toronto but once it is, it shouldn't take too long for the pieces to fall into place that will turn the ship around and point it in the right direction.
8. Buffalo Bills in Toronto This story is not about which league is better - that discussion is old, irrelevant and is a waste of time. There are thousands of NFL fans in Canada and I consider myself one of them. However, that doesn't mean it is realistic to think that Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal could be the home of an NFL franchise. Clearly the market for this product in Toronto was drastically misread. The only reason that this story is on this list is because when it was first announced that Buffalo would play games in Toronto, there were some in the GTA that felt it was a done deal that the Bills would move north permanently, and consequently, the CFL would be doomed. At this point, with what has happened over the first two years of the agreement between Rogers and the NFL, that now seems virtually impossible.
7. The Year of the Running Back For the first time in league history seven starting running backs rushed for 1000 yards or more in 2009. There are many possible explanations, one being the trend towards smaller linebackers, but whatever the reason, it was fun to watch the talent at the running back position in 2009.
6. Hamilton makes the playoffs The Ti-Cats not only made the playoffs, they hosted the semi-final by finishing second in the Eastern division. The fans in Steel Town deserve a winner and it looks like the Tabbies are getting closer. Owner Bob Young deserves a lot of credit for first having patience, and second for learning from early mistakes.
5. Mike Kelly in Winnipeg No one grabbed more headlines off the field than the Bombers head coach in 2009, most of which had Bomber brass squirming in their boardroom chairs. This story came to an end with the recent firing of Kelly, and combined with the resignation of President Lyle Bauer, puts the Bombers in the same situation as the Argos, in that both have a lot of work to do over the next few months.
4. Darian Durant in Saskatchewan In today's day and age of pro football on both sides of the border, developing a good young quarterback is tough. Coaches can't afford to lose too many games while allowing a rookie to go through some challenges, and yet a young player can't learn until he works himself out of some difficult situations in live game action. That is what makes the development of Darian Durant in Saskatchewan by head coach Ken Miller, one of the top stories in 2009. We just can't have too many great quarterbacks in the game.
3. Eric Tillman The Rider GM was told to work from his home in 2009 until some sort of resolution was found with regards to the criminal charges he currently faces in Saskatchewan. This story is not about sports and I'm not a lawyer, so let's just hope that resolution is found soon and Tillman and the Riders can move forward.
2. The Return of Casey Printers From the scrap heap to the face on the promotional material for the 2010 season for the B.C. Lions, the journey for Printers is a story that has the makings of a great book. With some of the issues facing athletes today, I could never get my head around how Printers was considered such a bad guy, by so many, but all of that seems to be behind the Lions pivot now. In a few games he showed that the magic is still there, and football fans in Vancouver can't wait for next year.
1. The 13th man It was a Grey Cup that will be talked about for years to come and will be part of Canadian Football folklore forever. The question is, did the Riders lose the game because of their mistake, or did the Als win it? While the way the game finished will be the topic of discussion for years, the last play was just one of many important plays that determined the outcome of the game. Montreal made the plays necessary to put itself in a position to win in the end, and that effort should be respected, even with its good fortune on the last play. Congratulations to Marc Trestman and the Montreal Alouettes, and Happy New Year to all football fans from coast to coast.Bring on 2010.
I think Suits pretty much covered it all. Did he miss anything?
At one time or another over 14 million people were watching the Grey Cup Championship which represents close to half the country, indisputable evidence that the 2009 CFL season grabbed the attention of more than just sports fans in Canada.Most lists like this contain ten stories but with the way the Grey Cup ended it seems fitting to go with the top 13 from 2009 in the CFL.
13. Negotiations between the League and the Players Association begin The only reason that this story is last on the list is because the process has just begun, because this negotiation will likely be the most important assignment in Commissioner Mark Cohon's tenure. Most have heard of the rumours that the key issue will be the Canadian ratio, but I doubt it. I would be surprised to see the league push such a patriotically sensitive topic. This story will be told over the next 4 to 6 months and its outcome could move it quickly to the top story of 2010.
12. Ottawa's return to the CFL Again in 2012 or 2013 this story will head the list but for now it is a work in progress. Ottawa city counsel voted 15-9 to go ahead with the Lansdowne Live project under certain conditions, so the process has begun. What is compelling about this story is not just the return of a CFL franchise in Ottawa, which would be mutually beneficial for the city and the League, but who is trying to bring Canadian Football back to the Nations Capital. The Lansdowne Live group is made up of Roger Greenberg, William Shenkman, John Ruddy and fronted by Ottawa 67's owner Jeff Hunt - all of whom are local businessmen and therefore, have a vested interest in making it work. This group is not just about football, they are about improving the city they live in, and that is why this story transcends sports.
11. Regular season game in Moncton It has been talked about for years but in 2009 the announcement to play a regular season game in the Maritimes made it official. The seed has been planted for expansion into Eastern Canada and it is long overdue. In the 2010 season the Argos will play an opponent to be determined in the off-season, in a regular season game, which according to reports, will be the Maritimes' own Grey Cup-like Festival. A ten-team league from coast to coast is still a few years away but at least now there are measures in place to take a real run at it, and that is good news for the country, not just for football fans.
10. Television ratings Yes, the system for counting viewers during a TV show has changed but it has changed for every show and every sport. The CFL numbers have been hard for some to digest for some reason, but they don't lie, and they rival, and at times surpass, NHL numbers in our country. We are a hockey-first Nation and that is not about to change, but the NHL and CFL are now, "one and one-A," in Canada. The CFL has engaged the younger generation - a demographic that was lost in the late 90's due to boardroom issues.
9. Arrrrrrrgos This story is one that definitely falls under the "bad" category, but is not the complete disaster that most make it out to be. Bart Andrus did not work out despite having a fairly impressive resume heading into the job, but he is not the only new coach that didn't pan out. Who will own the Argos in 2010 is the first question that has to be answered in Toronto but once it is, it shouldn't take too long for the pieces to fall into place that will turn the ship around and point it in the right direction.
8. Buffalo Bills in Toronto This story is not about which league is better - that discussion is old, irrelevant and is a waste of time. There are thousands of NFL fans in Canada and I consider myself one of them. However, that doesn't mean it is realistic to think that Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal could be the home of an NFL franchise. Clearly the market for this product in Toronto was drastically misread. The only reason that this story is on this list is because when it was first announced that Buffalo would play games in Toronto, there were some in the GTA that felt it was a done deal that the Bills would move north permanently, and consequently, the CFL would be doomed. At this point, with what has happened over the first two years of the agreement between Rogers and the NFL, that now seems virtually impossible.
7. The Year of the Running Back For the first time in league history seven starting running backs rushed for 1000 yards or more in 2009. There are many possible explanations, one being the trend towards smaller linebackers, but whatever the reason, it was fun to watch the talent at the running back position in 2009.
6. Hamilton makes the playoffs The Ti-Cats not only made the playoffs, they hosted the semi-final by finishing second in the Eastern division. The fans in Steel Town deserve a winner and it looks like the Tabbies are getting closer. Owner Bob Young deserves a lot of credit for first having patience, and second for learning from early mistakes.
5. Mike Kelly in Winnipeg No one grabbed more headlines off the field than the Bombers head coach in 2009, most of which had Bomber brass squirming in their boardroom chairs. This story came to an end with the recent firing of Kelly, and combined with the resignation of President Lyle Bauer, puts the Bombers in the same situation as the Argos, in that both have a lot of work to do over the next few months.
4. Darian Durant in Saskatchewan In today's day and age of pro football on both sides of the border, developing a good young quarterback is tough. Coaches can't afford to lose too many games while allowing a rookie to go through some challenges, and yet a young player can't learn until he works himself out of some difficult situations in live game action. That is what makes the development of Darian Durant in Saskatchewan by head coach Ken Miller, one of the top stories in 2009. We just can't have too many great quarterbacks in the game.
3. Eric Tillman The Rider GM was told to work from his home in 2009 until some sort of resolution was found with regards to the criminal charges he currently faces in Saskatchewan. This story is not about sports and I'm not a lawyer, so let's just hope that resolution is found soon and Tillman and the Riders can move forward.
2. The Return of Casey Printers From the scrap heap to the face on the promotional material for the 2010 season for the B.C. Lions, the journey for Printers is a story that has the makings of a great book. With some of the issues facing athletes today, I could never get my head around how Printers was considered such a bad guy, by so many, but all of that seems to be behind the Lions pivot now. In a few games he showed that the magic is still there, and football fans in Vancouver can't wait for next year.
1. The 13th man It was a Grey Cup that will be talked about for years to come and will be part of Canadian Football folklore forever. The question is, did the Riders lose the game because of their mistake, or did the Als win it? While the way the game finished will be the topic of discussion for years, the last play was just one of many important plays that determined the outcome of the game. Montreal made the plays necessary to put itself in a position to win in the end, and that effort should be respected, even with its good fortune on the last play. Congratulations to Marc Trestman and the Montreal Alouettes, and Happy New Year to all football fans from coast to coast.Bring on 2010.
I think Suits pretty much covered it all. Did he miss anything?
2009 NFL Playoff Race
The race to reach Miami for Super Bowl XLIV is underway. Follow along as teams jockey for position in an attempt to make the playoffs and see which of the eliminated teams will secure the top pick in the 2010 Draft
AFC Standings after (Week 16)
Seed Team (Record)
1. Indianapolis Colts (14-1-0)***, AFC South Winner
2. San Diego Chargers (12-3-0)**, AFC West Winner
3. New England Patriots (10-5-0)*, AFC East Winner
4. Cincinnati Bengals (10-5-0)*, AFC North Winner
5. Denver Broncos (8-7-0)
6. New York Jets (8-7-0)
Still In Playoff Contention
7. Baltimore Ravens (8-7-0)
8. Houston Texans (8-7-0)
9. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-7-0)
10. Miami Dolphins (7-8-0)
11. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-8-0)
Playoffs Scenarios
Baltimore clinches a playoff spot with a win
New York clinches a playoff spot with a win
Denver clinches a playoff spot with:
1) DEN win + NYJ loss or tie + BAL loss or tie
2) DEN win + NYJ loss or tie + PIT loss or tie
3) DEN win + NYJ loss or tie + HOU win
4) DEN win + BAL loss or tie + PIT loss or tie
5) DEN win + BAL loss or tie + HOU win
6) PIT loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + JAC loss
7) PIT loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + NYJ loss
8) PIT loss + BAL loss + JAC loss + NYJ loss
9) PIT loss + HOU loss + JAC loss + NYJ loss
10) MIA loss or tie + NYJ loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + JAC loss or tie
Pittsburgh clinches a playoff spot with:
1)PIT win + HOU loss or tie + NYJ loss or tie
2) PIT win + HOU loss or tie + BAL loss or tie
3) PIT win + NYJ loss or tie + BAL loss or tie + DEN loss or tie
Houston clinches a playoff spot with:
1) HOU win + NYJ loss or tie + BAL loss or tie
2) HOU win + NYJ loss or tie + DEN loss or tie
3) HOU win + BAL loss or tie + DEN loss or tie
Jacksonville clinches a playoff spot with:
1) JAC win + PIT loss + BAL loss + DEN loss + HOU loss
2) JAC win + PIT loss + BAL loss + DEN loss + NYJ loss
3) JAC win + PIT loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + NYJ loss
4) JAC win + PIT loss + DEN loss + HOU loss + NYJ loss
5) JAC win + NYJ loss + DEN loss + HOU loss + BAL loss
Miami clinches a playoff spot with:
MIA win + NYJ loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + JAC loss or tie
Eliminated
Tennessee Titans (7-8-0)
Oakland Raiders (5-10-0)
Buffalo Bills (5-10-0)
Cleveland Browns (4-11-0)
Kansas City Chiefs (3-12-0)
NFC Standings
(After Week 16)
Seed Team (Record)
1. New Orleans Saints (13-2-0)***, NFC South Winner
2. Philadelphia Eagles (11-4-0)*, NFC East Leader
3. Minnesota Vikings (11-4-0)*, NFC North Winner
4. Arizona Cardinals (10-5-0)*, NFC West Winner
5. Green Bay Packers (10-5-0)*
6. Dallas Cowboys (10-5-0)*
Playoff Scenarios
Arizona clinches a first-round bye with:
ARI win + MIN loss + PHI loss
Philadelphia clinches NFC East with:
PHI win or tie Philadelphia clinches a first-round bye with:
1) PHI win
2) PHI tie + MIN loss or tie
Dallas clinches NFC East with a win Dallas clinches a first-round bye with:
DAL win + MIN loss + ARI loss or tie
Eliminated
New York Giants (8-7-0)
Atlanta Falcons (8-7-0)
Carolina Panthers (7-8-0)
San Francisco 49ers (7-8-0)
Chicago Bears (6-9-0)
Seattle Seahawks (5-10-0)
Washington Redskins (4-11-0)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-12-0)
Detroit Lions (2-13-0)
St. Louis Rams (1-14-0)
AFC Standings after (Week 16)
Seed Team (Record)
1. Indianapolis Colts (14-1-0)***, AFC South Winner
2. San Diego Chargers (12-3-0)**, AFC West Winner
3. New England Patriots (10-5-0)*, AFC East Winner
4. Cincinnati Bengals (10-5-0)*, AFC North Winner
5. Denver Broncos (8-7-0)
6. New York Jets (8-7-0)
Still In Playoff Contention
7. Baltimore Ravens (8-7-0)
8. Houston Texans (8-7-0)
9. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-7-0)
10. Miami Dolphins (7-8-0)
11. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-8-0)
Playoffs Scenarios
Baltimore clinches a playoff spot with a win
New York clinches a playoff spot with a win
Denver clinches a playoff spot with:
1) DEN win + NYJ loss or tie + BAL loss or tie
2) DEN win + NYJ loss or tie + PIT loss or tie
3) DEN win + NYJ loss or tie + HOU win
4) DEN win + BAL loss or tie + PIT loss or tie
5) DEN win + BAL loss or tie + HOU win
6) PIT loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + JAC loss
7) PIT loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + NYJ loss
8) PIT loss + BAL loss + JAC loss + NYJ loss
9) PIT loss + HOU loss + JAC loss + NYJ loss
10) MIA loss or tie + NYJ loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + JAC loss or tie
Pittsburgh clinches a playoff spot with:
1)PIT win + HOU loss or tie + NYJ loss or tie
2) PIT win + HOU loss or tie + BAL loss or tie
3) PIT win + NYJ loss or tie + BAL loss or tie + DEN loss or tie
Houston clinches a playoff spot with:
1) HOU win + NYJ loss or tie + BAL loss or tie
2) HOU win + NYJ loss or tie + DEN loss or tie
3) HOU win + BAL loss or tie + DEN loss or tie
Jacksonville clinches a playoff spot with:
1) JAC win + PIT loss + BAL loss + DEN loss + HOU loss
2) JAC win + PIT loss + BAL loss + DEN loss + NYJ loss
3) JAC win + PIT loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + NYJ loss
4) JAC win + PIT loss + DEN loss + HOU loss + NYJ loss
5) JAC win + NYJ loss + DEN loss + HOU loss + BAL loss
Miami clinches a playoff spot with:
MIA win + NYJ loss + BAL loss + HOU loss + JAC loss or tie
Eliminated
Tennessee Titans (7-8-0)
Oakland Raiders (5-10-0)
Buffalo Bills (5-10-0)
Cleveland Browns (4-11-0)
Kansas City Chiefs (3-12-0)
NFC Standings
(After Week 16)
Seed Team (Record)
1. New Orleans Saints (13-2-0)***, NFC South Winner
2. Philadelphia Eagles (11-4-0)*, NFC East Leader
3. Minnesota Vikings (11-4-0)*, NFC North Winner
4. Arizona Cardinals (10-5-0)*, NFC West Winner
5. Green Bay Packers (10-5-0)*
6. Dallas Cowboys (10-5-0)*
Playoff Scenarios
Arizona clinches a first-round bye with:
ARI win + MIN loss + PHI loss
Philadelphia clinches NFC East with:
PHI win or tie Philadelphia clinches a first-round bye with:
1) PHI win
2) PHI tie + MIN loss or tie
Dallas clinches NFC East with a win Dallas clinches a first-round bye with:
DAL win + MIN loss + ARI loss or tie
Eliminated
New York Giants (8-7-0)
Atlanta Falcons (8-7-0)
Carolina Panthers (7-8-0)
San Francisco 49ers (7-8-0)
Chicago Bears (6-9-0)
Seattle Seahawks (5-10-0)
Washington Redskins (4-11-0)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-12-0)
Detroit Lions (2-13-0)
St. Louis Rams (1-14-0)
2010 World Juniors Scoring Leaders
player:country:goals:assists:points
Gabriel Bourque/Canada/3/4/7
Jordan Eberle/Canada/3/4/7
Anton Rodin/Sweden/3/3/6
Brandon McMillan/Canada/4/1/5
Richard Panik/Slovakia/3/2/5
Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson/Sweden/1/4/5
Alex Pietrangelo/Canada/1/4/5
Marek Viedensky/Slovakia/1/4/5
Nazem Kadri/Canada/3/1/4
Gabriel Bourque/Canada/3/4/7
Jordan Eberle/Canada/3/4/7
Anton Rodin/Sweden/3/3/6
Brandon McMillan/Canada/4/1/5
Richard Panik/Slovakia/3/2/5
Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson/Sweden/1/4/5
Alex Pietrangelo/Canada/1/4/5
Marek Viedensky/Slovakia/1/4/5
Nazem Kadri/Canada/3/1/4
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Belarus The 1st Nation To Name It's Hockey Roster
Belarus became the first nation to name it's provisional hockey roster for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, Wednesday.
Head coach Mikhail Zakharov named a 23- man roster similar to the Belarus teams that competled at the 2008 and 2009 world championships.
Four NHL players made the roster, including Colorado defenceman Ruslan Salei, 36, Toronto forward Mikhail Grabovsky, 25, and Montreal's Kostitsyn brothers, Andrei, 24, and Sergei, 22.
Andrei Mezin will play between the pipes for Belarus. The 35- year- old netminder helped the Belarusians reach the quarterfinals at the 2009 worlds with a .9478 save percentage that earned him the Best Goalkeeper award at the tournament.
Mezin was also involved in Belarus upset Of Sweden at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City with 44 saves.
In total 14 players from the KHL, seven from Dynamo Minsk, the Belarusian club in the Russian league, and five from the Belarusian Extraliga made the provisional roster.
Vancouver will be the third Olympics for Belarus after competing in 19987 and 2002. Belarus did not qualify for the 2006 Games.
The final Olympic rosters must be registered by February 15, one day prior to the beginning of the tournament. All other provisional rosters are scheduled to be announced by January 1.
Goaltenders
Vitali Koval
Maxim Malyutin
Andrei Mezin
Defence
Andrei Antonov
Andrei Bashko
Vladimir Denisov
Viktor Kosiuchenok
Rustan Salei
Nikolai Stansenko
Vadim Sushko
Alexander Syrei
Oleg Antonenko
Sergei Demagim
Forwards
Mikhail Grabovsky
Alexei Kaliuzhny
Konstantin Koltsov
Andrei Kostitsyn
Sergei Kostitsyn
Alexander Kulakov
Andrei Stas
Alexei Ugarov
Sergei Zadelenov
Head coach Mikhail Zakharov named a 23- man roster similar to the Belarus teams that competled at the 2008 and 2009 world championships.
Four NHL players made the roster, including Colorado defenceman Ruslan Salei, 36, Toronto forward Mikhail Grabovsky, 25, and Montreal's Kostitsyn brothers, Andrei, 24, and Sergei, 22.
Andrei Mezin will play between the pipes for Belarus. The 35- year- old netminder helped the Belarusians reach the quarterfinals at the 2009 worlds with a .9478 save percentage that earned him the Best Goalkeeper award at the tournament.
Mezin was also involved in Belarus upset Of Sweden at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City with 44 saves.
In total 14 players from the KHL, seven from Dynamo Minsk, the Belarusian club in the Russian league, and five from the Belarusian Extraliga made the provisional roster.
Vancouver will be the third Olympics for Belarus after competing in 19987 and 2002. Belarus did not qualify for the 2006 Games.
The final Olympic rosters must be registered by February 15, one day prior to the beginning of the tournament. All other provisional rosters are scheduled to be announced by January 1.
Goaltenders
Vitali Koval
Maxim Malyutin
Andrei Mezin
Defence
Andrei Antonov
Andrei Bashko
Vladimir Denisov
Viktor Kosiuchenok
Rustan Salei
Nikolai Stansenko
Vadim Sushko
Alexander Syrei
Oleg Antonenko
Sergei Demagim
Forwards
Mikhail Grabovsky
Alexei Kaliuzhny
Konstantin Koltsov
Andrei Kostitsyn
Sergei Kostitsyn
Alexander Kulakov
Andrei Stas
Alexei Ugarov
Sergei Zadelenov
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
CHL Week 15 Top Ten
1. Windsor Spitfires (29-4-0-4)
2. Saint John Sea Dogs (31-6-1-0)
3. Barrie Colts (29-4-0-1)
4. Calgary Hitmen (26-9-1-1)
5. Drummondville Voltigeurs (26-10-0-2)
6. Saskatoon Blades (24-7-1-3)
7. Tri-City Americans (26-9-0-0)
8. Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (24-7-3-1)
9. Victoriaville Tigers (25-10-1-1)
10. Brandon Wheat Kings (25-11-0-2)
Honourable Mention:
Quebec Remparts (24-8-2-3)
Kitchen Rangers (24-8-1-2)
Medicine Hat Tigers (22-11-2-4)
2. Saint John Sea Dogs (31-6-1-0)
3. Barrie Colts (29-4-0-1)
4. Calgary Hitmen (26-9-1-1)
5. Drummondville Voltigeurs (26-10-0-2)
6. Saskatoon Blades (24-7-1-3)
7. Tri-City Americans (26-9-0-0)
8. Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (24-7-3-1)
9. Victoriaville Tigers (25-10-1-1)
10. Brandon Wheat Kings (25-11-0-2)
Honourable Mention:
Quebec Remparts (24-8-2-3)
Kitchen Rangers (24-8-1-2)
Medicine Hat Tigers (22-11-2-4)
TSN's Top Audiences
The following is a list of the top audiences for TSN in 2009 including the Grey Cup- the most watched telecast on Canadian television of the year:
1. Grey Cup (Montreal/Saskatchewan) 5.073 million
2. 2009 IIHL World Junior Championship - Gold Medal Game (Canada/Sweden) 3.7 million
3. CFL West Final (Calgary/Saskatchewan) 2.14 million
4. 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship Semifinal (Canada/Russia) 1.89 million
5. 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship (Canada/USA) 1.7 million
6. NHL on TSN (Toronto/Montreal) Dec. 1 - 1.5 million
7. NFL (Green Bay/Minnesota) Oct. 5 - 1.4 million
8. CFL West Semifinal (Edmonton/Calgary) 1.4 million
9. CFL East Semifinal (BC/Hamilton) 1.36 million
10. NHL on TSN (Ottawa/Toronto) Oct. 6 - 1.27 million
11. Curling Olympic Trial - Men's Final - 1.2 million
12. CFL (BC/Saskatchewan) 1.2 million
1. Grey Cup (Montreal/Saskatchewan) 5.073 million
2. 2009 IIHL World Junior Championship - Gold Medal Game (Canada/Sweden) 3.7 million
3. CFL West Final (Calgary/Saskatchewan) 2.14 million
4. 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship Semifinal (Canada/Russia) 1.89 million
5. 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship (Canada/USA) 1.7 million
6. NHL on TSN (Toronto/Montreal) Dec. 1 - 1.5 million
7. NFL (Green Bay/Minnesota) Oct. 5 - 1.4 million
8. CFL West Semifinal (Edmonton/Calgary) 1.4 million
9. CFL East Semifinal (BC/Hamilton) 1.36 million
10. NHL on TSN (Ottawa/Toronto) Oct. 6 - 1.27 million
11. Curling Olympic Trial - Men's Final - 1.2 million
12. CFL (BC/Saskatchewan) 1.2 million
George Headed To Weyburn
rodpedersen.com has learned that the Weyburn Red Wings and Cowichan Valley Capitals have worked out a trade for disgruntled winger Drew George of Regina.
Red Wings Director of Player Personnel Ron Rumball told Rod Pedersen this morning that the paperwork has been filed , and all that's needed now is the players approval.
The Regina Pats had been vigorously pursuing George, however he was reluctant to give up his NCAA eligibility.
I will have some personal thoughts on Drew George's decision later.
Red Wings Director of Player Personnel Ron Rumball told Rod Pedersen this morning that the paperwork has been filed , and all that's needed now is the players approval.
The Regina Pats had been vigorously pursuing George, however he was reluctant to give up his NCAA eligibility.
I will have some personal thoughts on Drew George's decision later.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
CHRISTMAS WISHES FOR 32 TEAMS
Buffalo Bills
Health and success to James Hardy. If this 2008 second-rounder can explode in the new year, Terrell Owens can go somewhere else. In a year, Hardy and Aaron Maybin will be the key to the Bills Success.
Miami Dolphins
Durability for Ricky Williams. For the first time in six years, he gained 1,000 yards, with toughness and determination. He's a nice guy playing a team game and will be 33 next year. He has been - and hopefully will be fun to watch as his career winds down.
New England Patriots
The gift of verbal disassociation. Randy, lighten up a bit and admit you took plays off - other receivers in the NFL do it too. Life is too short not to enjoy fame, money and ability and you have all three in abundance. Who cares who says what about you, enjoy the time you have left and remember Tedi Bruschi, Richard Seymour, Mike Vrabel and Rodney Harrison.
NY Jets
To Mark Sanchez - a vacation with a purpose. No matter how far the Jets go in 2009, they will be that much better in 2010. Take a vacation in February, come back in March with improvement and a new attitude. The Jets are a wide receiver and quarterback away from a Super Bowl appearance.
Baltimore Ravens
Youth for Ray Lewis. He's a mean guy playing a mean sport, but his leadership skills, desire to win and commitment is astonishing. I really like Ray Lewis - as long as he's on my team.
Cincinnati Bengals
Peace of mind. Football is a game - that's it. The revenue streams that can help others, along with the influence players have on each other are more important than anything else. For Mike Zimmer, Chad Ochocinco and the rest of the organization, that peace of mind may have come through personal adversity.
Cleveland Browns
To Mike Holmgren - energy, enthusiasm and youth. I'm surprised he's on board with the Browns. May he create, find or be given the desire to continue the battle in tough times. Welcome back Mike Holmgren, and all the success in the world for one of the game's class acts.
Pittsburgh Steelers
To receiver Mike Wallace - unless I'm mistaken you're the first receiver to catch a TD pass of significant yardage to open a game and close a game to win it. I'm a terrible businessman, but you are forever enshrined as a trivia answer and I must capitalize on that in some capacity.
Houston Texans
One more year for Gary Kubiak as head coach. The problem with the AFC South? Peyton Manning and the Colts are in it. That frustrates Kubiak, Jack Del Rio and Jeff Fisher to no end. But now's not the time to change. Continuity wins in football and to one day beating the Colts you have to stay the course.
Indianapolis Colts
Acknowledgment that Bill Polian is the greatest football executive ever. Whether it's Buffalo, Carolina or Indy, his judgement on players, money, coaches - anything to do with the game - is remarkably accurate and effective. Yes he has Manning. But he has 21 others on the field and they were excellent decisions as well.
Tennessee Titans
Continued good mental health for Vince Young, who had a nervous breakdown last year. This year, he's calm, dedicated and confident. That's important because now, the team doesn't need to draft a quarterback. The future is bright again with Young.
Denver Broncos
The wish that any network analyst would acknowledge that Josh McDaniel was 100 percent right to keep Kyle Orton as his quarterback and trading Jay Cutler. His early decisions in the season confused me, but in the end I was wrong. He has made some excellent decisions - who would have thought that Kyle Orton was a better QB that Jay Cutler?
Kansas City Chiefs
The gift of Charlie Weis. Colege and pro football are dramatically different in so many ways. College is about recruiting and maturing, pro is about buying and performing. He belongs in the NFL not the NCAA. As offensive coordinator, the Chiefs could improve fast.
Oakland Raiders
Maturing for JaMarcus Russell. He has to understand that the money he's getting is not a gift - it's a demand to be 100 percent dedicated and mentally available to improve. Call up Vince Young and get some tips from him. Russell has the physical ability, but it's the mental and emotional approach that's the toughest challenge.
San Diego Chargers
Continued success for Vaughn Martin. Here's a nice young man going through some highs and lows in the NFL. Remember that there's a fine line between an NFL experience and an NFL career. Stay focused on the career and don't ever take anything for granted. Same goes for Canadian Rob Meier in Jacksonville. Stay determined and focused ( and don't get married)!
Dallas Cowboys
The wish of a continued character and performance in equal ability. I have not heard a negative off-field story about the Cowboys in a long, long time, and it's good to see. Wade Phillips has found a nice mesh of ability and maturity, and both are important because you those in equal parts to win. Many love the trash elements of sports. I don't. I like seeing young people - 22 to 32 years old- act like they are in their 4o's or 50's. Money, time, youth and transportation are a lethal foursome of the unknown. Good wishes to Dallas in a Super Bowl run and good wishes to all the players in the off-season where all four elements are available daily.
NY Giants
The gift of continued continuity of personality with regards to Eli Manning. He is their starting quarterback and nothing seems to phase him. I am so impressed with Manning's ability to handle everything that is not football. He seems to have no arrogance, attitude and doesn't seem to be a critic. He's just a guy trying to be the best quarterback that he can be in a very demanding market. Please don't change Eli.
Washington Red Skins
The wish of continued humility for their owner Daniel Snyder. I almost dropped my morning coffee when Snyder said that he made some mistakes. Sometimes before progress is made, you have to take some steps back. I really hope that Snyder will let the football people do football and the business people focus on the business. I think Bruce Allen will make a difference in management.
Chicago Bears
The gift of the next Ron Rivera. Lovie Smith, is a nice guy in a tough game. When the Bears played the Colts in the Super Bowl, Smith had two things happen, his team was healthy and Rivera was his defensive coordinator. Rivera is now in San Diego where the Chargers have won nine straight games. Give Smith another year to have a healthy team and to find or develop the next Rivera.
Detroit Lions
The wish of another excellent draft. Mattew Stafford, Brandon Pettigrew and Louis Delmas have all played a lot of football and have become veterans in their rookie season. If the Lions can nail their top three picks in the 2010 draft, they will have a unique foundation that can make them competitive again. April will be a very important month for Lion's football.
Green Bay Packers
The wish for the next seventh round draft pick to be an effective starter. While Aaron Rodgers, Nick Barnett and Donald Driver are expected to play all the time, when you find a guy in the draft like middle linebacker Brad Jones, and he plays like a first rounder, you have taken a hugh first step to winning on a consistent basis. It's the last half of the draft that makes it for a team. Here's hoping the Packers do it again next year.
Minnesota Vikings
The gift of better blocking for Adrian Peterson. He runs with violent power and is the most physically intimidating running back in the game. Unfortunately, the starters up front need to run block better for Peterson to reach the next level. Sometimes the back makes the line better and vice versa, but now is the time for the line to do their share.
Atlanta Falcons
The wish of optimism for 2010. Next season could be an outstanding year for them. Right now, the Falcons are like Jacksonville and Carolina, alternating one good year, and one bad one, but with general manager Thomas Dimitroff, I can only see lots of good in their future.
Carolina Panthers
The wish to stay the course. The Panthers are a really tough team, which is reflected in how they run the football and play defence. They need a quarterback to emerge that does not make mistakes - like a Kyle Orton - not necessarily a star player. Now is not the time for them to change their philosophy or approach. Stay the course please.
New Orleans Saints
A Super Bowl win for the City. The city of New Orleans needs a non-tragic event to help lift everyone's spirit. Obviously it's still a mess in areas, but a Super Bowl win would give a boost to the people. I can't even comprehend what the people went through, but I really hope to see the Saints playing in February.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
A wish for head coach Raheem Morris to not lose faith in himself. I'm sure that he didn't anticipate only 2 wins at this point. Morris is begin tested and he needs to stay positive. The good news is that next year, he doesn't have to win the NFC South, but he obviously still must improve.
Health and success to James Hardy. If this 2008 second-rounder can explode in the new year, Terrell Owens can go somewhere else. In a year, Hardy and Aaron Maybin will be the key to the Bills Success.
Miami Dolphins
Durability for Ricky Williams. For the first time in six years, he gained 1,000 yards, with toughness and determination. He's a nice guy playing a team game and will be 33 next year. He has been - and hopefully will be fun to watch as his career winds down.
New England Patriots
The gift of verbal disassociation. Randy, lighten up a bit and admit you took plays off - other receivers in the NFL do it too. Life is too short not to enjoy fame, money and ability and you have all three in abundance. Who cares who says what about you, enjoy the time you have left and remember Tedi Bruschi, Richard Seymour, Mike Vrabel and Rodney Harrison.
NY Jets
To Mark Sanchez - a vacation with a purpose. No matter how far the Jets go in 2009, they will be that much better in 2010. Take a vacation in February, come back in March with improvement and a new attitude. The Jets are a wide receiver and quarterback away from a Super Bowl appearance.
Baltimore Ravens
Youth for Ray Lewis. He's a mean guy playing a mean sport, but his leadership skills, desire to win and commitment is astonishing. I really like Ray Lewis - as long as he's on my team.
Cincinnati Bengals
Peace of mind. Football is a game - that's it. The revenue streams that can help others, along with the influence players have on each other are more important than anything else. For Mike Zimmer, Chad Ochocinco and the rest of the organization, that peace of mind may have come through personal adversity.
Cleveland Browns
To Mike Holmgren - energy, enthusiasm and youth. I'm surprised he's on board with the Browns. May he create, find or be given the desire to continue the battle in tough times. Welcome back Mike Holmgren, and all the success in the world for one of the game's class acts.
Pittsburgh Steelers
To receiver Mike Wallace - unless I'm mistaken you're the first receiver to catch a TD pass of significant yardage to open a game and close a game to win it. I'm a terrible businessman, but you are forever enshrined as a trivia answer and I must capitalize on that in some capacity.
Houston Texans
One more year for Gary Kubiak as head coach. The problem with the AFC South? Peyton Manning and the Colts are in it. That frustrates Kubiak, Jack Del Rio and Jeff Fisher to no end. But now's not the time to change. Continuity wins in football and to one day beating the Colts you have to stay the course.
Indianapolis Colts
Acknowledgment that Bill Polian is the greatest football executive ever. Whether it's Buffalo, Carolina or Indy, his judgement on players, money, coaches - anything to do with the game - is remarkably accurate and effective. Yes he has Manning. But he has 21 others on the field and they were excellent decisions as well.
Tennessee Titans
Continued good mental health for Vince Young, who had a nervous breakdown last year. This year, he's calm, dedicated and confident. That's important because now, the team doesn't need to draft a quarterback. The future is bright again with Young.
Denver Broncos
The wish that any network analyst would acknowledge that Josh McDaniel was 100 percent right to keep Kyle Orton as his quarterback and trading Jay Cutler. His early decisions in the season confused me, but in the end I was wrong. He has made some excellent decisions - who would have thought that Kyle Orton was a better QB that Jay Cutler?
Kansas City Chiefs
The gift of Charlie Weis. Colege and pro football are dramatically different in so many ways. College is about recruiting and maturing, pro is about buying and performing. He belongs in the NFL not the NCAA. As offensive coordinator, the Chiefs could improve fast.
Oakland Raiders
Maturing for JaMarcus Russell. He has to understand that the money he's getting is not a gift - it's a demand to be 100 percent dedicated and mentally available to improve. Call up Vince Young and get some tips from him. Russell has the physical ability, but it's the mental and emotional approach that's the toughest challenge.
San Diego Chargers
Continued success for Vaughn Martin. Here's a nice young man going through some highs and lows in the NFL. Remember that there's a fine line between an NFL experience and an NFL career. Stay focused on the career and don't ever take anything for granted. Same goes for Canadian Rob Meier in Jacksonville. Stay determined and focused ( and don't get married)!
Dallas Cowboys
The wish of a continued character and performance in equal ability. I have not heard a negative off-field story about the Cowboys in a long, long time, and it's good to see. Wade Phillips has found a nice mesh of ability and maturity, and both are important because you those in equal parts to win. Many love the trash elements of sports. I don't. I like seeing young people - 22 to 32 years old- act like they are in their 4o's or 50's. Money, time, youth and transportation are a lethal foursome of the unknown. Good wishes to Dallas in a Super Bowl run and good wishes to all the players in the off-season where all four elements are available daily.
NY Giants
The gift of continued continuity of personality with regards to Eli Manning. He is their starting quarterback and nothing seems to phase him. I am so impressed with Manning's ability to handle everything that is not football. He seems to have no arrogance, attitude and doesn't seem to be a critic. He's just a guy trying to be the best quarterback that he can be in a very demanding market. Please don't change Eli.
Washington Red Skins
The wish of continued humility for their owner Daniel Snyder. I almost dropped my morning coffee when Snyder said that he made some mistakes. Sometimes before progress is made, you have to take some steps back. I really hope that Snyder will let the football people do football and the business people focus on the business. I think Bruce Allen will make a difference in management.
Chicago Bears
The gift of the next Ron Rivera. Lovie Smith, is a nice guy in a tough game. When the Bears played the Colts in the Super Bowl, Smith had two things happen, his team was healthy and Rivera was his defensive coordinator. Rivera is now in San Diego where the Chargers have won nine straight games. Give Smith another year to have a healthy team and to find or develop the next Rivera.
Detroit Lions
The wish of another excellent draft. Mattew Stafford, Brandon Pettigrew and Louis Delmas have all played a lot of football and have become veterans in their rookie season. If the Lions can nail their top three picks in the 2010 draft, they will have a unique foundation that can make them competitive again. April will be a very important month for Lion's football.
Green Bay Packers
The wish for the next seventh round draft pick to be an effective starter. While Aaron Rodgers, Nick Barnett and Donald Driver are expected to play all the time, when you find a guy in the draft like middle linebacker Brad Jones, and he plays like a first rounder, you have taken a hugh first step to winning on a consistent basis. It's the last half of the draft that makes it for a team. Here's hoping the Packers do it again next year.
Minnesota Vikings
The gift of better blocking for Adrian Peterson. He runs with violent power and is the most physically intimidating running back in the game. Unfortunately, the starters up front need to run block better for Peterson to reach the next level. Sometimes the back makes the line better and vice versa, but now is the time for the line to do their share.
Atlanta Falcons
The wish of optimism for 2010. Next season could be an outstanding year for them. Right now, the Falcons are like Jacksonville and Carolina, alternating one good year, and one bad one, but with general manager Thomas Dimitroff, I can only see lots of good in their future.
Carolina Panthers
The wish to stay the course. The Panthers are a really tough team, which is reflected in how they run the football and play defence. They need a quarterback to emerge that does not make mistakes - like a Kyle Orton - not necessarily a star player. Now is not the time for them to change their philosophy or approach. Stay the course please.
New Orleans Saints
A Super Bowl win for the City. The city of New Orleans needs a non-tragic event to help lift everyone's spirit. Obviously it's still a mess in areas, but a Super Bowl win would give a boost to the people. I can't even comprehend what the people went through, but I really hope to see the Saints playing in February.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
A wish for head coach Raheem Morris to not lose faith in himself. I'm sure that he didn't anticipate only 2 wins at this point. Morris is begin tested and he needs to stay positive. The good news is that next year, he doesn't have to win the NFC South, but he obviously still must improve.
Giants Hold Onto Slim Playoffs Lives
The Football Giants of New York came into Washington with one thing on mind. Don't blow this!!
That's how it has being going for the Giants of late after starting off on a tare they have hit a "Giant Wall". Going 3-6 over their last nine games . But after another fabulous Monday Night the Giants now have life again but for how long. I mean let's not kid are self's the Redskins aren't exactly setting the World on fire.
But the Giants came out and did what they should have and in dominant fashion 45-12. They still don't control their destiny, but they moved one game behind Dallas and Green Bay in the race for the wild-card spots. With two weeks remaining in the regular season. A loss would have left New York with the faintest of post-season hopes.
But the real test will come over the next two weeks for the Giants as they welcome another team on the outside looking in. The Carolina Panthers but this is a team that just got off to a bad start with losing their starting quarterback(Jake Delhomme). Who has been in and out this season and as of right now he will be out this Sunday when the Panthers travel to New York to take on the Giants. Matt Moore will get the start in his place.
But still the Panthers have been playing good ball winning 2 of their last 3 games with their only loss coming at the hands of the New England Patriots. Then in the last week of the season New York goes to Minnesota to play the Brett Farve lead Vikings. Who by the way still have a shot at finishing first in the NFC if the New Orleans Saints loss the rest of their last two games at the Vikings win.
For the Giants and their fans their playoff dreams get to stay alive for at least two more weeks until they play the Vikings. Who will put that pipe dream to bed and turn it into a nightmare.
Ilya Kovalchuk could be doing his thrashing in another city with a different team soon if the Atlanta Thrashers and Ilya don't come agreement soon on a new contract. On Monday G.M. Don Waddell said contract negotiations between the two sides have hit a "snag". "Our position is different than his right now", Waddell explained to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "Their position is fixed years with money and we have a different side of that".
Ilya Kovalchuk told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he likes it in Atlanta and has stated many times before that he wants to play his intire career with one team. But he did say that's up to the management. If the two sides can't come come to terms on a new deal. Waddell could be tempted to trade Kovalchuk in the same manner that he did with pending free agent Marian Hossa two seasons ago.
The trail for fired Bombers coach Mike Kelly postponed and remain in legal limbo until the New Year. Kelly was supposed to appear in a Pennsylvania court Wednesday on domestic assault chargers, but his lawyer can't attend and has asked for a new date that will likely be January. "Mike maintains his innocence and we will vigorously defend the charges," Kelly's criminal lawyer, Tim Woodward, told The Canadian Press in a phone call Monday from his Morristown,Penn office. "I think you're going to find when this is all said and done, he got a raw deal".
Kelly,51 was arrested and charged with simple assault and harassment of his ex-girlfriend at his Bridgeport home last Thursday morning. When the Bombers learned board of directors of the arrest they held an emergency meeting the same evening and announced Kelly's firing based on his season's performance. I will add yes I'm sure that the Bombers 7-11 record and missing the playoffs had something to do with his firing.But I know that his arrest had a lot to do with it even though they can't come out and say that but we all know.
Since Mike Kelly maintains his innocence I will just ask this one question. Mike how did your ex-girlfriend receive a small cut on her finger,an abrasion on her lip and some redness on her neck, when she came to your house to pick up her stuff?
That's how it has being going for the Giants of late after starting off on a tare they have hit a "Giant Wall". Going 3-6 over their last nine games . But after another fabulous Monday Night the Giants now have life again but for how long. I mean let's not kid are self's the Redskins aren't exactly setting the World on fire.
But the Giants came out and did what they should have and in dominant fashion 45-12. They still don't control their destiny, but they moved one game behind Dallas and Green Bay in the race for the wild-card spots. With two weeks remaining in the regular season. A loss would have left New York with the faintest of post-season hopes.
But the real test will come over the next two weeks for the Giants as they welcome another team on the outside looking in. The Carolina Panthers but this is a team that just got off to a bad start with losing their starting quarterback(Jake Delhomme). Who has been in and out this season and as of right now he will be out this Sunday when the Panthers travel to New York to take on the Giants. Matt Moore will get the start in his place.
But still the Panthers have been playing good ball winning 2 of their last 3 games with their only loss coming at the hands of the New England Patriots. Then in the last week of the season New York goes to Minnesota to play the Brett Farve lead Vikings. Who by the way still have a shot at finishing first in the NFC if the New Orleans Saints loss the rest of their last two games at the Vikings win.
For the Giants and their fans their playoff dreams get to stay alive for at least two more weeks until they play the Vikings. Who will put that pipe dream to bed and turn it into a nightmare.
Ilya Kovalchuk could be doing his thrashing in another city with a different team soon if the Atlanta Thrashers and Ilya don't come agreement soon on a new contract. On Monday G.M. Don Waddell said contract negotiations between the two sides have hit a "snag". "Our position is different than his right now", Waddell explained to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "Their position is fixed years with money and we have a different side of that".
Ilya Kovalchuk told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he likes it in Atlanta and has stated many times before that he wants to play his intire career with one team. But he did say that's up to the management. If the two sides can't come come to terms on a new deal. Waddell could be tempted to trade Kovalchuk in the same manner that he did with pending free agent Marian Hossa two seasons ago.
The trail for fired Bombers coach Mike Kelly postponed and remain in legal limbo until the New Year. Kelly was supposed to appear in a Pennsylvania court Wednesday on domestic assault chargers, but his lawyer can't attend and has asked for a new date that will likely be January. "Mike maintains his innocence and we will vigorously defend the charges," Kelly's criminal lawyer, Tim Woodward, told The Canadian Press in a phone call Monday from his Morristown,Penn office. "I think you're going to find when this is all said and done, he got a raw deal".
Kelly,51 was arrested and charged with simple assault and harassment of his ex-girlfriend at his Bridgeport home last Thursday morning. When the Bombers learned board of directors of the arrest they held an emergency meeting the same evening and announced Kelly's firing based on his season's performance. I will add yes I'm sure that the Bombers 7-11 record and missing the playoffs had something to do with his firing.But I know that his arrest had a lot to do with it even though they can't come out and say that but we all know.
Since Mike Kelly maintains his innocence I will just ask this one question. Mike how did your ex-girlfriend receive a small cut on her finger,an abrasion on her lip and some redness on her neck, when she came to your house to pick up her stuff?
2010 Olympic Winter Games Women's Hockey Roster
Goaltenders
name:ht:wt:born:hometown:2008-09 team
Shannon Szabados/5'8/147/08-06-86/Edmonton,AB/Grant MacEwan(ACAC)
Charline Labonte/5'9/173/10-15-82/Boisbriand,QC/McGill University(CIS)
Kim St-Pierre/5'9/156/12-14-78/Chateauguay,QC/Montreal Stars(CWHL)
Defence
name:ht:wt:born:hometown:2008-09 team
Carla MacLeod/5'4/133/6-16-82/Calgary,AB/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Becky Kellar/5'7/146/01-01-75/Hagersville,ON/Burlington Barracudas(CWHL)
Colleen Sostorics/5'4/168/12-17-79/Kennedy,SK/Calgary Oval X-Treme)WWHL)
Meaghan Mikkelson/5'9/150/01-04-85/St.Albert,AB/Edmonton Chimos(WWHL)
Catherine Ward/5'6/135/02-28-87/Montreal,QC/McGill University(CIS)
Tessa Bonhomme/5'7/140/07-23-85/Sudbury,ON/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Forwards
name:ht:wt:born:hometown:2008-09 team
Meghan Agosta/5'7/147/02-12-87/Ruthven,ON/Mercyhurst College(CHA)
Rebecca Johnston/5'7/167/09-24-89/Sudbury,ON/Cornell University(ECAC)
Cherie Piper/5'6/167/06-29-81/Scarborough,ON/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Gillian Apps/6'0/177/11-02-83/Unionville,ON/Brampton Canadette-Thunder(CWHL)
Caroline Ouellette/5'11/172/05-25-79/Montreal,QC/Montreal Stars(CWHL)
Jayna Hefford/5'5/138/05-14-77/Kingston,ON/Brampton Canadette-Thunder(CWHL)
Jennifer Botterill/5'9/158/05-01-79/Winnipeg,MB/Mississauga Chiefs(CWHL)
Haley Irwin/5'7/172/06-06-88/Thunder Bay,ON/Univ. of Minnesota-Duluth(WCHA)
Hayley Wickenheiser/5'10/171/08-12-78/Shaunavon,SK/Ekilstuna Linden(SWE D2,M)
Sarah Vaillancourt/5'6/140/05-08-85/Sherbrooke,QC/Harvard University(ECAC)
Gina Kingsbury/5'8/137/11-26-81/Rouyn-Noranda,QC/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Marie-Philip Poulin/5'6/160/03-28-91/Beauceville,QC/Dawson College(CEGEP)
Staff
tittle:name:hometown:2008-09 team
President/Bob Nicholson/Penticton,BC/Hockey Canada
Vice-president/Johnny Misley/Vancouver,BC/Hockey Canada
Director,Female Hockey/Julie Healy/Montreal,QC/Hockey Canada
Head Coach/Melody Davidson/Oyen,AB/Hockey Canada
Assistant Coach/Doug Lidster/Kamloops,BC/Hockey Canada
Assistant Coach/Peter Smith/Lachine,QC/McGill University(CIS)
Video Manager/Marco Marciano/Laval,QC/Hockey Canada
Goaltending Consultant/Dave Jamieson/Coboconk,ON/Hockey Canada
Equipment Manager/Robin McDonald/Didsbury,AB/Hockey Canada
Doctor/Dr. Jennifer Hacking/Winnipeg,MB/Hockey Canada
Doctor/Dr. Diane Simpson/Regina,SK/Hockey Canada
Therapist/Doug Stacey/London/London Knights(OHL)
Message Therapist/Domenic Manchisi/Oakville,ON/Hockey Canada
Strenght & Conditioning/Ryan van Asten/Oshawa,ON/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Mental training consultant/Peter Jensen/Toronto,ON/Hockey Canada
Coordinator,High Performance/Lesley Reddon/Mississagua,ON/Hockey Canada
Media Relations/Chris Jurewicz,Moose Jaw,SK/Hockey Canada
name:ht:wt:born:hometown:2008-09 team
Shannon Szabados/5'8/147/08-06-86/Edmonton,AB/Grant MacEwan(ACAC)
Charline Labonte/5'9/173/10-15-82/Boisbriand,QC/McGill University(CIS)
Kim St-Pierre/5'9/156/12-14-78/Chateauguay,QC/Montreal Stars(CWHL)
Defence
name:ht:wt:born:hometown:2008-09 team
Carla MacLeod/5'4/133/6-16-82/Calgary,AB/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Becky Kellar/5'7/146/01-01-75/Hagersville,ON/Burlington Barracudas(CWHL)
Colleen Sostorics/5'4/168/12-17-79/Kennedy,SK/Calgary Oval X-Treme)WWHL)
Meaghan Mikkelson/5'9/150/01-04-85/St.Albert,AB/Edmonton Chimos(WWHL)
Catherine Ward/5'6/135/02-28-87/Montreal,QC/McGill University(CIS)
Tessa Bonhomme/5'7/140/07-23-85/Sudbury,ON/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Forwards
name:ht:wt:born:hometown:2008-09 team
Meghan Agosta/5'7/147/02-12-87/Ruthven,ON/Mercyhurst College(CHA)
Rebecca Johnston/5'7/167/09-24-89/Sudbury,ON/Cornell University(ECAC)
Cherie Piper/5'6/167/06-29-81/Scarborough,ON/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Gillian Apps/6'0/177/11-02-83/Unionville,ON/Brampton Canadette-Thunder(CWHL)
Caroline Ouellette/5'11/172/05-25-79/Montreal,QC/Montreal Stars(CWHL)
Jayna Hefford/5'5/138/05-14-77/Kingston,ON/Brampton Canadette-Thunder(CWHL)
Jennifer Botterill/5'9/158/05-01-79/Winnipeg,MB/Mississauga Chiefs(CWHL)
Haley Irwin/5'7/172/06-06-88/Thunder Bay,ON/Univ. of Minnesota-Duluth(WCHA)
Hayley Wickenheiser/5'10/171/08-12-78/Shaunavon,SK/Ekilstuna Linden(SWE D2,M)
Sarah Vaillancourt/5'6/140/05-08-85/Sherbrooke,QC/Harvard University(ECAC)
Gina Kingsbury/5'8/137/11-26-81/Rouyn-Noranda,QC/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Marie-Philip Poulin/5'6/160/03-28-91/Beauceville,QC/Dawson College(CEGEP)
Staff
tittle:name:hometown:2008-09 team
President/Bob Nicholson/Penticton,BC/Hockey Canada
Vice-president/Johnny Misley/Vancouver,BC/Hockey Canada
Director,Female Hockey/Julie Healy/Montreal,QC/Hockey Canada
Head Coach/Melody Davidson/Oyen,AB/Hockey Canada
Assistant Coach/Doug Lidster/Kamloops,BC/Hockey Canada
Assistant Coach/Peter Smith/Lachine,QC/McGill University(CIS)
Video Manager/Marco Marciano/Laval,QC/Hockey Canada
Goaltending Consultant/Dave Jamieson/Coboconk,ON/Hockey Canada
Equipment Manager/Robin McDonald/Didsbury,AB/Hockey Canada
Doctor/Dr. Jennifer Hacking/Winnipeg,MB/Hockey Canada
Doctor/Dr. Diane Simpson/Regina,SK/Hockey Canada
Therapist/Doug Stacey/London/London Knights(OHL)
Message Therapist/Domenic Manchisi/Oakville,ON/Hockey Canada
Strenght & Conditioning/Ryan van Asten/Oshawa,ON/Calgary Oval X-Treme(WWHL)
Mental training consultant/Peter Jensen/Toronto,ON/Hockey Canada
Coordinator,High Performance/Lesley Reddon/Mississagua,ON/Hockey Canada
Media Relations/Chris Jurewicz,Moose Jaw,SK/Hockey Canada
Monday, December 21, 2009
Team Canada make Sweden GRATA!!!!!
WOW!! What a game last night at the Brandt Centre as Team Roughriders uh I mean Team Canada. One can excuse me as there was green and white jerseys flying around all game long as Canada cruised to a 6-2 victory over Team Sweden. Last night in what was the first exhibition game for both teams. The Canadians out hit them, out work them, out chanced them,and just down right out played them.
The only time that Sweden even look a little bit interested in the game was when try to throw a cheap shot at one of the Canadian players. In a game that sure didn't have the feel of a exhibition game their was a lot of cheap shots and at times got dirty. I wasn't to happy with the elbow that CAPTAIN Patrice Cormier delivered to A Swedish players chin early in the second. And I will tell you why and it's not because the Swedish player, didn't deserve it it's because in the IIHF anything and everything can be reviewed.
So if the Swedish team push hard enough and they took the game tape to the head of the IIHF there is a chance that Cormier could receive a suspension one maybe two games. Now are talking exhibition games or are we talking tournament games. One would have to think it would be tournament games. I hope nothing comes of it but I wouldn't be surprised if there was something lets keep are finger crossed that this just blows over.
Why do Swedish players always try to act tough when they play Canada?
They started a scrum after half of the whistles in this game. Clearly this is the coaching staff advising them because as evidenced by all the diving and whining you guys do you are not tough. I hope they try try the act again if these two teams play later Teubert will ripe them a new asshole. Lots of class by the Swedes, bunch of poor sports... they can dish the cheap shots, but as soon as the tough Canadian boys fight back they go off the ice crying.
The Swedish players really annoyed me, no matter how "chippy" the game is. You should at least show some class and line up to shake hands. And be on the blue line for the player of the game awards. With you not being their that is nothing but disrespectful and truly a slap in the face to your Country who you are representing. WIN OR LOSE!!!
But the big story of the game was Canadian forward Taylor Hall leaving the game late in the first period with a knee injury. Hall did score the first goal of the game and what a beauty it was but after he was knocked down in front of the Swedish net. He left to go get check out and never did return to the game. Coach Willie Desjaedins when ask about it he calm the hearts of Canada saying.
"He's good, he just banged his knee a little bit, he probably would've played in any other game, or if we were later on in the tournament he would've kept playing," Desjardins said. "It was just precautionary, he'll be fine."
Scoring the other goals for Canada were Jordan Caron,Brandon Kozun,Travis Hamonic, Ryan Ellis,Jordan Eberle. Eberle also picked up a assist on Ellis goal. And a funny thing is when Hamonic sored for Canada I don't think he knew what to do what the roar went up is he used to being meant with boos from the Regina Pats faithful. Hamonic said "It was a little but weird to hear them cheer my goal I was waiting for the boos and cat calls from the fans but that never did happen. Which I guess is a good thing.
Hamonic went on to say. "Yeah the fans were great they definitely pushed us to keep on playing hard and just to keep are foot on the gas. We have a game on Tuesday in Calgary and then back here on Wednesday for are last exhibition game . And we can't wait to get back in front of these great fans".
When ask if he thinks if his goal and solid play has earned him some reprieve from the rapid Pats faithful Hamonic chuckled. "For now maybe, but when I come back a member of the enemy(Moose Jaw Warriors) I think things will have gone back to normal."
Canad's next game is on Tuesday in Calgary against Finland and back in Regina on Wednesday to take on the Czech's. Canada starts the tournament on Boxing Day Dec.26. against Latvia in Saskatoon.
The only time that Sweden even look a little bit interested in the game was when try to throw a cheap shot at one of the Canadian players. In a game that sure didn't have the feel of a exhibition game their was a lot of cheap shots and at times got dirty. I wasn't to happy with the elbow that CAPTAIN Patrice Cormier delivered to A Swedish players chin early in the second. And I will tell you why and it's not because the Swedish player, didn't deserve it it's because in the IIHF anything and everything can be reviewed.
So if the Swedish team push hard enough and they took the game tape to the head of the IIHF there is a chance that Cormier could receive a suspension one maybe two games. Now are talking exhibition games or are we talking tournament games. One would have to think it would be tournament games. I hope nothing comes of it but I wouldn't be surprised if there was something lets keep are finger crossed that this just blows over.
Why do Swedish players always try to act tough when they play Canada?
They started a scrum after half of the whistles in this game. Clearly this is the coaching staff advising them because as evidenced by all the diving and whining you guys do you are not tough. I hope they try try the act again if these two teams play later Teubert will ripe them a new asshole. Lots of class by the Swedes, bunch of poor sports... they can dish the cheap shots, but as soon as the tough Canadian boys fight back they go off the ice crying.
The Swedish players really annoyed me, no matter how "chippy" the game is. You should at least show some class and line up to shake hands. And be on the blue line for the player of the game awards. With you not being their that is nothing but disrespectful and truly a slap in the face to your Country who you are representing. WIN OR LOSE!!!
But the big story of the game was Canadian forward Taylor Hall leaving the game late in the first period with a knee injury. Hall did score the first goal of the game and what a beauty it was but after he was knocked down in front of the Swedish net. He left to go get check out and never did return to the game. Coach Willie Desjaedins when ask about it he calm the hearts of Canada saying.
"He's good, he just banged his knee a little bit, he probably would've played in any other game, or if we were later on in the tournament he would've kept playing," Desjardins said. "It was just precautionary, he'll be fine."
Scoring the other goals for Canada were Jordan Caron,Brandon Kozun,Travis Hamonic, Ryan Ellis,Jordan Eberle. Eberle also picked up a assist on Ellis goal. And a funny thing is when Hamonic sored for Canada I don't think he knew what to do what the roar went up is he used to being meant with boos from the Regina Pats faithful. Hamonic said "It was a little but weird to hear them cheer my goal I was waiting for the boos and cat calls from the fans but that never did happen. Which I guess is a good thing.
Hamonic went on to say. "Yeah the fans were great they definitely pushed us to keep on playing hard and just to keep are foot on the gas. We have a game on Tuesday in Calgary and then back here on Wednesday for are last exhibition game . And we can't wait to get back in front of these great fans".
When ask if he thinks if his goal and solid play has earned him some reprieve from the rapid Pats faithful Hamonic chuckled. "For now maybe, but when I come back a member of the enemy(Moose Jaw Warriors) I think things will have gone back to normal."
Canad's next game is on Tuesday in Calgary against Finland and back in Regina on Wednesday to take on the Czech's. Canada starts the tournament on Boxing Day Dec.26. against Latvia in Saskatoon.
Friday, December 18, 2009
For those who don't know who this man is. Well it is Mike Kelly just fired Winnipeg Blue Bombers coach.Thursday, December 17, 2009
WHLers on Team Canada
Martin Jones Goalie Calgary HitmenJared Cowen Defence Spokane Chiefs
Travis Hamonic Defence Moose Jaw Warriors
Colton Tuebert Defence Regina Pats
Jordan Eberle Forward Regina Pats
Brandon Kozun Forward Calgary Hitmen
Brayden Schenn Forward Brandon Wheat Kings
Head Coach Willie Desjardins Medicine Hat Tigers
Trainer Greg Mayer Regina Pats
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Decade of Decadence:Counting Down Sports' Top 10 Excesses
As the decadent city of Rome burned in 64 A.D., Nero fiddled. Asthe world of sports descended into decadence throughout the first decade of the 21st century, Pacman Jones made it rain. No single incident more summarizes the decade that was, than Jones' rainstrom in the final hours of the NBA 2007 All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas.
Pacman then a defensive back for the Tennessee Titans, began to make it rain--throwing money in the air as if it were raining--in a strip club called Minxx. Jones,who reportedly arrived with $100,000 in cash--gambling winnings, carried in black trash bags--stood on the stage and made it rain while the strippers cavorted around him. shortly after the rainstrom began, a fight brok out as the strippers scrambled to grab the money on the gilded stage. From there a bouncer was shot outside the club, and the chaos reigned.
The "making-it-rain" story grabbed headlines for months, was the pivotal event surrounding the NFL's new personal conduct policy, and represented, in a matter of minutes, the perfect illustration of our own decade of sports decadence. For unaware, decadence is defined thusly: "A process, condition, or period of deterioration or decline, as in morals or art; decay." And while Pacman's making it rain might have crysrallized the decadent decade of sports, he had many compatroits. Dive in for the 10 most decadent events the summed up the decade that was in sports.
Before we begin, lets keep in mind that sports merely served as a reflection of our larger society's decline. Indeed, sports own decade of decadence was set in motion by larger market forces that embraced excess. On March 10,2000, the NASDAQ stock market hit 5132.52. New millionaires were being crowned each day thanks to the love affair with a newfangled contraption called the information superhighway. As sports fans across the country geared up for the release of the NCAA Tourament bracets in a few short days, it appeared likely that we were all going to be fabulously wealthy. Only it was not to be. March 10,2000 was the peak of the internet bubble.
Just short of 10 years later, the NASDAQ currently trades at 2,200. Perhaps no two numbers better symbolize the decade in our country at large than the unrealized potential that fueled the stock market's charge, and the past decade thae we've spent toiling in the shadows of that giant number. The stirring collapse in financial markets at the decade's dawn also provided an excellent prelude to our own decade in sports. As fans we watched players chase soaring contracts, leagues shut down for financial disputes that would lead to advanced revenue sharing and complex salary cap structures, quarterbacks fight dogs, Tiger Woods become the first billionaire athlete in sports, the continued explosion of sports coverage in a varietry of media worlds, and the ongoing slugfest between athletes and the law. When all was said and done, as 2009 comes to a close, we fans had witnessed the most decadent decade in the history of sports.
10. Pacman Jones makes it rain.
As we discssed in the introduction, no other single act better personifies the decade that was. Consider the requisite points of excess that coalesced in this sigle incident.
More that twice the salary of the average family of four. Is tossed into the air for strippers whreupon a fight emerges that leads to a bouncer being shot and paralyzed.
9. College coaches get filthy rich.
In 1996. Steve Spurrier became the first college coach to make a million dollars a year. By the end of the current decade, Mack Brown was making $5 million a year to coach football at Texas. If the currently escalating coaching contracts continue at this rate, by 2025 the top coach will be making $25 million a year.
That's 15 years away. And we won't even blink an eye at $25 million a year or $50 million.
Because $5 million is already chicken feed.
8. Latrell Sprewell of the Minnersota Timberwolves turns down a multi-million dollar contract extension because."I got my family to feed."
Sprewell, then 34, described a three-year, $21-million deal as insulting.
"Why would I want to help them win a title?", Sprewell went on to say. "They're not doing anything foe me. I'm at risk. I have a lot of risk here. I got my family to feed." At the time, Sprewell made $14.6 million per year playing basketball.
After rejecting the team's offer, Sprewell played his final NBA game in 2005. No other team offered him anywhere close to the amount of money he rejected from the Timberwolves. Since his final game Sprewell's 70-foot yacht, Milwaukee's Best, has been foreclosed upon and so has one of his hmoes in the city.
Sprewell, along with Antoine Walker and Mike Tyson, take your pick, represent the perfect poster-child for athlete excess.
7. Kobe Bryant is charged with rape.
Setting the template for the athletes struggle with both courts and fidelity, Kobe Bryant is charged with sexual assault in Colorado in 2003. The companies whose products Bryant endorese abandon him. Amazingly, he continues to play basketball throughout the proceedings and ultimately the case crumbles as Bryant pays an undisclosed amount of money and apologizes to the victim.
Bryant's reputation among fans does not suffer, indeedm in a sign that forces us to ask whether sports fans are the mostculpable of all for our decade od decadence, Kobe's jersey sales skyrocket in the immediate wake of his arrest.
Six years later, Bryant's being charged with rape almost completely forgotten. His endorsements have returned, and his wife Vanessa, has a bigger diamond ring. And athletes everywhere have their template for how to behave when caught in the wrong.
6. Mike Vick fights dogs.
If I'd told you in 2000, that by 2008, oneof the five most famous quarterbacks in the NFL would be in jail for dogfighting, would you have ever believed me?
Of course, you wouldn't have.
That's because dogfighting existed in a dark netherworld, a place most didn't really believe existed. It wasn't so much shocking that Mike Vick, hundred millionaire quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, fought gogs, it was shocking that anyone fought dogs.
And in the wake of Vick's conviction,fans were left wondering, what other sordid and decadent practices are embraced by the athletes we make millionaires?
5. Jerry Jones $1.15 billion Dallas Cowboys stadium, the roman Colisseum, opens.
The stadium features an 11,520 square foot video screen. Shortly after opening the field makes news for two major reasons. a. The gigantic scoreboard screen is sometimes in play for punts and b. a couple takes advantage of the voluminous bathroom stalls to have sex inside ine during the game. The man, perdictably, is wearing a Michael Irvin jersey.
Watching Monday night game from Cowboys Stadium, as Tony Romo prepared to surge onto the field, we couldn't help but think this: The NFL is the closest experience to the Roman gladiators that we will ever know.
And the coda to that thought is this , like the Roman gladiatorial era, one day this will all end as well.
4. Steve McNair is murdered by a jealous girlfriend.
The murder by Sarah Kazemi causes athletes everywhere to enter into deep contemplation of their sexual infidelities for approximately three minutes.
The life retirns to normal.
McNair's dalliances with multiple women who aren't his wife reinforces the barionil lifestyle that awaits successful athletes in today's society. And while McNair's antics may be no more decadent than those of athletes before him, today's media culture brings those transgressions into the publis eye in a way they never been before.
Athletes be warned
3. Indiana Pacer Ron Artest runs into the Detroit Piston's crowd after having beer tossed on him.
After the ensuing melee-- forever dubbed Malice at the Paace-- Artest is suspended for the season.
At the time, sports fans engaged in a short period of intense hand wringing about what Artest's actions meant for sports and fandom. Our national mouring lasted long enough to watch Atest attempt to hawk his newest CD on the Today Show, and then, predictably, Artest faded from the national discourse and we went back to our games.
Five years later, with the benefit of dsitance, Artest sprinit into the crowd looks a bit different. Rather than a danerous assault upon fans, it emerges as an early preview of the rising influence of fans upon the games we watch. The angry fan as lonely heckler with an audience of a few rows has given way to the abgry fan typing away for an audience as large as the market sees fit. Angry fans are all tossing metaphorical beers for the world at large to review now, and the discourse of the game has changed.
If you're a person of prominence today, and you Google your name, someone hayes you with every fiber of their being.
The public era of Haterade is upon us. And Artest getting drenched by a beer was the first liquid salvo in our new world order.
2.Barry Bonds,Jose Canseco,Mark McGwire,Alex Rodriguez and other baseball players teach us that reality is far from real.
The 2000s can also be noted as the decade of reality. That's because we saw the rise of reality television and an intense belief in the ability of those television shows to capture the world around us with greater verisimilitude fshion than scripted television.
Only we learned quite rapidlt that"reality" can be every bit as inauthentic as anything that takes place on a stage. And while we may have hoped, that our games--unlike our real estate, our stock, our banks, and just about every other facet of our modern lives--couldn't be built upon a fondation of lies, they were, in fact, just as susceptible to artfice.
As we've all learned, the reality of our world id steeped in illusion, and baseball's illicit grugs trade was yet another march towards decadence.
1. Tiger Woods implodes.
The carefully crafted world of sports first billionaire comes crashing down amid revelations from the National Enquirer about Woods relationship with a female clib promoter. Yeo, the National Enquirer is now our nation's greatest truth-teller.
Suddenly, entertaimmebnt reporters who couldn't tell you what color jacket you got for the Maters, were green with envy over the number of viewers poring over every decadent detail of Tiger's life. We can already trace this reportorial trail of decadedce all the way back to Monica Lewinsky's blue dress. That story opened the door for puliticians to be exposed, and from there athetes have become fair game.
Woods transgressions are not a surprise, but the rapidity of his tumble and the voracity of the media civerage are significant signposts in our decade of decadence. Right now, there are an awful lot of athletes clicking through their text messages cursing.
Someone will be next. Because entering a new decade isn't going to alter our trajectory.
Maybe, after all this, sports aren't any more decadent than ther're always been, we're just more likely to know about the sordid excesses that our athletes embrace.
Maybe.
But I tend to think that things have changed.
Why?
Because the money our most-talented athletes continue to rake in makes them more and more likely to fall peril to excess. After all,money makes you more of what you already are. Way back in another money-soaked decade, the roaring 20s, F. Scott Fitzgerald remarked, "The rich are different than you and me."
Implicit in the commentary was not just that the rich are different but that you and I, the non-rich, share something in common as well. Now, in the wake of our past decade of decadence. It's time foe an addendum, "The rich are different than you and me, they make it rain."
The "making-it-rain" storty grabbed headlines for months, was the pivotal event surrounding the NFL's new personal conduct policy, and represented, in a matter of minutes, the perfect illustration of our own decade of sports decadence. For the unaware, decadence is defined thusly:"A process,condition,or period of deterioration or decline, as in morals or art; decay". And while Pacman's
Pacman then a defensive back for the Tennessee Titans, began to make it rain--throwing money in the air as if it were raining--in a strip club called Minxx. Jones,who reportedly arrived with $100,000 in cash--gambling winnings, carried in black trash bags--stood on the stage and made it rain while the strippers cavorted around him. shortly after the rainstrom began, a fight brok out as the strippers scrambled to grab the money on the gilded stage. From there a bouncer was shot outside the club, and the chaos reigned.
The "making-it-rain" story grabbed headlines for months, was the pivotal event surrounding the NFL's new personal conduct policy, and represented, in a matter of minutes, the perfect illustration of our own decade of sports decadence. For unaware, decadence is defined thusly: "A process, condition, or period of deterioration or decline, as in morals or art; decay." And while Pacman's making it rain might have crysrallized the decadent decade of sports, he had many compatroits. Dive in for the 10 most decadent events the summed up the decade that was in sports.
Before we begin, lets keep in mind that sports merely served as a reflection of our larger society's decline. Indeed, sports own decade of decadence was set in motion by larger market forces that embraced excess. On March 10,2000, the NASDAQ stock market hit 5132.52. New millionaires were being crowned each day thanks to the love affair with a newfangled contraption called the information superhighway. As sports fans across the country geared up for the release of the NCAA Tourament bracets in a few short days, it appeared likely that we were all going to be fabulously wealthy. Only it was not to be. March 10,2000 was the peak of the internet bubble.
Just short of 10 years later, the NASDAQ currently trades at 2,200. Perhaps no two numbers better symbolize the decade in our country at large than the unrealized potential that fueled the stock market's charge, and the past decade thae we've spent toiling in the shadows of that giant number. The stirring collapse in financial markets at the decade's dawn also provided an excellent prelude to our own decade in sports. As fans we watched players chase soaring contracts, leagues shut down for financial disputes that would lead to advanced revenue sharing and complex salary cap structures, quarterbacks fight dogs, Tiger Woods become the first billionaire athlete in sports, the continued explosion of sports coverage in a varietry of media worlds, and the ongoing slugfest between athletes and the law. When all was said and done, as 2009 comes to a close, we fans had witnessed the most decadent decade in the history of sports.
10. Pacman Jones makes it rain.
As we discssed in the introduction, no other single act better personifies the decade that was. Consider the requisite points of excess that coalesced in this sigle incident.
More that twice the salary of the average family of four. Is tossed into the air for strippers whreupon a fight emerges that leads to a bouncer being shot and paralyzed.
9. College coaches get filthy rich.
In 1996. Steve Spurrier became the first college coach to make a million dollars a year. By the end of the current decade, Mack Brown was making $5 million a year to coach football at Texas. If the currently escalating coaching contracts continue at this rate, by 2025 the top coach will be making $25 million a year.
That's 15 years away. And we won't even blink an eye at $25 million a year or $50 million.
Because $5 million is already chicken feed.
8. Latrell Sprewell of the Minnersota Timberwolves turns down a multi-million dollar contract extension because."I got my family to feed."
Sprewell, then 34, described a three-year, $21-million deal as insulting.
"Why would I want to help them win a title?", Sprewell went on to say. "They're not doing anything foe me. I'm at risk. I have a lot of risk here. I got my family to feed." At the time, Sprewell made $14.6 million per year playing basketball.
After rejecting the team's offer, Sprewell played his final NBA game in 2005. No other team offered him anywhere close to the amount of money he rejected from the Timberwolves. Since his final game Sprewell's 70-foot yacht, Milwaukee's Best, has been foreclosed upon and so has one of his hmoes in the city.
Sprewell, along with Antoine Walker and Mike Tyson, take your pick, represent the perfect poster-child for athlete excess.
7. Kobe Bryant is charged with rape.
Setting the template for the athletes struggle with both courts and fidelity, Kobe Bryant is charged with sexual assault in Colorado in 2003. The companies whose products Bryant endorese abandon him. Amazingly, he continues to play basketball throughout the proceedings and ultimately the case crumbles as Bryant pays an undisclosed amount of money and apologizes to the victim.
Bryant's reputation among fans does not suffer, indeedm in a sign that forces us to ask whether sports fans are the mostculpable of all for our decade od decadence, Kobe's jersey sales skyrocket in the immediate wake of his arrest.
Six years later, Bryant's being charged with rape almost completely forgotten. His endorsements have returned, and his wife Vanessa, has a bigger diamond ring. And athletes everywhere have their template for how to behave when caught in the wrong.
6. Mike Vick fights dogs.
If I'd told you in 2000, that by 2008, oneof the five most famous quarterbacks in the NFL would be in jail for dogfighting, would you have ever believed me?
Of course, you wouldn't have.
That's because dogfighting existed in a dark netherworld, a place most didn't really believe existed. It wasn't so much shocking that Mike Vick, hundred millionaire quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, fought gogs, it was shocking that anyone fought dogs.
And in the wake of Vick's conviction,fans were left wondering, what other sordid and decadent practices are embraced by the athletes we make millionaires?
5. Jerry Jones $1.15 billion Dallas Cowboys stadium, the roman Colisseum, opens.
The stadium features an 11,520 square foot video screen. Shortly after opening the field makes news for two major reasons. a. The gigantic scoreboard screen is sometimes in play for punts and b. a couple takes advantage of the voluminous bathroom stalls to have sex inside ine during the game. The man, perdictably, is wearing a Michael Irvin jersey.
Watching Monday night game from Cowboys Stadium, as Tony Romo prepared to surge onto the field, we couldn't help but think this: The NFL is the closest experience to the Roman gladiators that we will ever know.
And the coda to that thought is this , like the Roman gladiatorial era, one day this will all end as well.
4. Steve McNair is murdered by a jealous girlfriend.
The murder by Sarah Kazemi causes athletes everywhere to enter into deep contemplation of their sexual infidelities for approximately three minutes.
The life retirns to normal.
McNair's dalliances with multiple women who aren't his wife reinforces the barionil lifestyle that awaits successful athletes in today's society. And while McNair's antics may be no more decadent than those of athletes before him, today's media culture brings those transgressions into the publis eye in a way they never been before.
Athletes be warned
3. Indiana Pacer Ron Artest runs into the Detroit Piston's crowd after having beer tossed on him.
After the ensuing melee-- forever dubbed Malice at the Paace-- Artest is suspended for the season.
At the time, sports fans engaged in a short period of intense hand wringing about what Artest's actions meant for sports and fandom. Our national mouring lasted long enough to watch Atest attempt to hawk his newest CD on the Today Show, and then, predictably, Artest faded from the national discourse and we went back to our games.
Five years later, with the benefit of dsitance, Artest sprinit into the crowd looks a bit different. Rather than a danerous assault upon fans, it emerges as an early preview of the rising influence of fans upon the games we watch. The angry fan as lonely heckler with an audience of a few rows has given way to the abgry fan typing away for an audience as large as the market sees fit. Angry fans are all tossing metaphorical beers for the world at large to review now, and the discourse of the game has changed.
If you're a person of prominence today, and you Google your name, someone hayes you with every fiber of their being.
The public era of Haterade is upon us. And Artest getting drenched by a beer was the first liquid salvo in our new world order.
2.Barry Bonds,Jose Canseco,Mark McGwire,Alex Rodriguez and other baseball players teach us that reality is far from real.
The 2000s can also be noted as the decade of reality. That's because we saw the rise of reality television and an intense belief in the ability of those television shows to capture the world around us with greater verisimilitude fshion than scripted television.
Only we learned quite rapidlt that"reality" can be every bit as inauthentic as anything that takes place on a stage. And while we may have hoped, that our games--unlike our real estate, our stock, our banks, and just about every other facet of our modern lives--couldn't be built upon a fondation of lies, they were, in fact, just as susceptible to artfice.
As we've all learned, the reality of our world id steeped in illusion, and baseball's illicit grugs trade was yet another march towards decadence.
1. Tiger Woods implodes.
The carefully crafted world of sports first billionaire comes crashing down amid revelations from the National Enquirer about Woods relationship with a female clib promoter. Yeo, the National Enquirer is now our nation's greatest truth-teller.
Suddenly, entertaimmebnt reporters who couldn't tell you what color jacket you got for the Maters, were green with envy over the number of viewers poring over every decadent detail of Tiger's life. We can already trace this reportorial trail of decadedce all the way back to Monica Lewinsky's blue dress. That story opened the door for puliticians to be exposed, and from there athetes have become fair game.
Woods transgressions are not a surprise, but the rapidity of his tumble and the voracity of the media civerage are significant signposts in our decade of decadence. Right now, there are an awful lot of athletes clicking through their text messages cursing.
Someone will be next. Because entering a new decade isn't going to alter our trajectory.
Maybe, after all this, sports aren't any more decadent than ther're always been, we're just more likely to know about the sordid excesses that our athletes embrace.
Maybe.
But I tend to think that things have changed.
Why?
Because the money our most-talented athletes continue to rake in makes them more and more likely to fall peril to excess. After all,money makes you more of what you already are. Way back in another money-soaked decade, the roaring 20s, F. Scott Fitzgerald remarked, "The rich are different than you and me."
Implicit in the commentary was not just that the rich are different but that you and I, the non-rich, share something in common as well. Now, in the wake of our past decade of decadence. It's time foe an addendum, "The rich are different than you and me, they make it rain."
The "making-it-rain" storty grabbed headlines for months, was the pivotal event surrounding the NFL's new personal conduct policy, and represented, in a matter of minutes, the perfect illustration of our own decade of sports decadence. For the unaware, decadence is defined thusly:"A process,condition,or period of deterioration or decline, as in morals or art; decay". And while Pacman's
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