Shark Week: Week Fifteen Player Rankings

by FTF Staff on Jan 19, 2011 3:00 AM PST in Shark Week Player Rankings

"Shark Week" will be a piece that runs every week (or weekish, since we've been busy here) on Fear the Fin, where Plank and TCY will track the progress of the players over the course of each week. The players are listed alphabetically, the arrows will indicate the change on a weekly basis. We will also keep track of our top five Sharks players each week.

Goalies___________	Trend	Notes
Antti Niemi		One of the Sharks only constants over the last few weeks. Since the team's 4-3 loss in Vancouver, Niemi had a save percentage under .915 just once (.880 against Toronto). Rebounds are still an issue, and most likely always will be. But he's improved in that regard and continues to get better with the glove and blocker.
Antero Niittymaki		Say what you will about Niittymaki's limited number of starts, but the fact remains that he's struggled mightily sine losing the 1A position in the Sharks' tandem. His save percentage has plummeted to .901, eclipsing .900 in just two games since Thanksgiving.

Defensemen_______
Dan Boyle		Tough to really evaluate the Sharks lone all-star, because there are two sides to every story with him. He's making mistakes in the defensive end, not scoring at the pace expected of him, and looks gassed at the end of the third period. However, the Sharks would be lost without his minutes, an NHL leading 27:01 per game. Boyle's arrow should likely be trending down considering his play of late, but keeping his minutes in mind, we're going with a flat-line and hoping for the best.
Justin Braun	N/A	The potential Braun possesses is still there, but he's not fully ready for the NHL game. He's just been sent back to Worcester to continue his development. Playing top minutes in the AHL will be good for him. In the event anyone on the current blueline goes down with injury, expect Braun to get the call.
Jason Demers		Just like Dan Boyle, Jason Demers has been asked to play more minutes than he's accustomed to. Because of this, he has not been able to shine in the ways we thought he would. We'd love to see more offense out of him, but until the Sharks make a move to alleviate the defensive workload on the current roster, it's unlikely that happens. We're content with the improvements in his defensive game but need more out of him offensively if the Sharks are going to make a playoff push.
Kent Huskins		Huskins hasn't looked good since returning from injury, and after a 09-10 season that saw him win some compassion from us, he's now becoming a liability on the majority of shifts. His puck moving ability has seemed to disappear, and his decision making is suspect in all zones. In the Sharks last two wins, he's been a minus player.
Derek Joslin		It seems that the all around ability displayed by Joslin has cemented him as the team's seventh defenseman. He hasn't excelled in any one area specifically, but he's responsible enough to earn the confidence of the coaching staff. It's likely he would be taking part in the Worcester shuttle, but with the requirement that he pass through waivers if sent down, expect to see him in San Jose all season long.
Douglas Murray		Still being leaned upon heavily, as is much of the defense. He's 10th in the league in hits, which isn't surprising for a player who likes to be physical. Has taken a newfound liking to the offensive game, specifically shooting from the point. Try this on for size-- beginning with the beginning of the season in October, Murray has taken 8, 10, 13, and 18 shots in each month respectively. And while the results aren't always pretty, it's nice to see Crankshaft throwing some weight into some shots instead of opossing player's craniums all the time.
Marc-Edouard Vlasic		Assists in each of his last two games, both Sharks wins. He's been called upon to be more active offensively even strength, which has made him less of the stay at home stalwart we've come to expect. Consistently underappreciated, consistently faces the toughest minutes amongst the blueline. Will be a key player down the stretch for San Jose. If you don't notice him, that's a good thing.
Niclas Wallin		We applauded his progress early in the season, but he's been below average as of late. Last in quality of competition, last in EV TOI, last in +/-. Falling down to allow a goal against Edmonton was the lowlight of his recent stretch of poor play. We might blame it on the hamburgers, but then figured what spinach is to Popeye grilled beef is to Wallin.

Forwards__________
Ryane Clowe		Aside from an injury to Dan Boyle, injuries to Ryane Clowe or Logan Couture would be near the top of the list in terms of damage to the roster. Well, the Sharks had to deal with injuries to both forwards over the course of the last few games. Although Clowe came back to play in the same game he was injured (1/13 v. Edmonton), he has yet to return. He's been one of the Sharks best players when healthy. Who were those idiots calling for him to be traded last season? Oh, right. That was us.
Logan Couture		The Sharks got a bit of a scare when Couture went down after a questionable hit by Colton Orr and missed the next game. The injury proved to be nothing more than a bit of swelling, though, as Couture has come back after missing just a game. He scored his 20th goal of the season against Phoenix and has moved onto the team's first line. You know the drill.
Andrew Desjardins	N/A	Desjardins was sent down to further make room for the additions of Eager and Wellwood. He was always an injury call-up to begin with, and McLellan didn't trust him in many situations. He averaged just 5:19 in three games with the team.
Ben Eager		Eager is yet to play a game with San Jose, but the team hopes he can add size and grit to the fourth line. Here is our article explaining the addition.
Benn Ferriero		Ferriero has been a bit of a non-factor lately, he's scored just one point in 2011 (eight games). Perhaps that's why he decided to drop the gloves against St. Louis. During the fight, Ferriero suffered an eye injury (swelling) and has not played since. With Pavelski back, and Clowe set to return sometime in the future, Ferriero will likely find himself on the third line when he returns.
Dany Heatley		Heatley is just one of the team's elite players to respond to the criticism of his coaches and his teammates. He's more engaged, and in turn, is scoring more. He has six points in his last three games, including three goals. San Jose is going to need that consistency from him all throughout the rest of the season. The Sharks will go as far and he, Marleau, and Thornton will take them, and his recent steps have been a good start.
Patrick Marleau		Marleau, who just played in his 1,000th NHL game, has also been improving as of late. He's looked good on Pavelski's wing and has regained the speed that makes him so dangerous. A return to form from Marleau is great news for the Sharks. Now if he can only do something about that atrocious +/-...
Brandon Mashinter	N/A	Mashinter was probably our favorite of the recent batch of call-ups, as he had an effect on almost ever game he played. Sent packing with the acquisition of Kyle Wellwood
Jamal Mayers		Has done little to make his mark on the team lately. We totally dig the eyebrows though.
John McCarthy		McCarthy has not played a game since mid-December, suffering from that oh-so-contgious upper body injury bug that has plagued the team. He's been activated off injured reserve, though, and should return Thursday against Vancouver.
Jamie McGinn		We don't know how many times we'll be able to give McGinn the green arrow, but his first goal of the season seems like it warrants the praise. Aside form the goal, though, McGinn has been a real spark plug on the bottom lines.
Torrey Mitchell		The chronically injured Mitchell finds himself on the shelf yet again, and it appears he'll stay there for some time. He has been placed on LTIR, which helps make room for Ben Eager and Kyle Wellwood.
Scott Nichol		Have to give Nichol the down arrow here, as his reckless physical play in Phoenix leaves the Sharks without his services for four games. The PK, which has been substandard all year, will hurt without his services.
Joe Pavelski		He's looked very good between Marleau and Setoguchi on the Sharks new look second line. However, the team needs more scoring from him, especially in the goal department. Three assists in his last two is a good start, and looking at the numbers, there's no doubt his 6.0 S% should increase. Expect bigger things from Pavelski as the season heads into the crucial stages.
Joe Thornton		The Sharks' captain is on a tear offensively, with a goal and an assist in each of his last three games. The criticism of Thornton's leadership capabilities will always be there, but there's no doubt his attention to the defensive aspect of his game should be setting a good example for the rest of the team. An improvement in even strength scoring production, which almost certainly will tie in with an increase in Heatley's effectiveness, is what Jumbo Joe must focus on in his next ten games in order to prepare for San Jose's push for a playoff spot.
Devin Setoguchi		The winger's streaky season continues. No continuity to his game, and no scoring either. He has just one goal on the new year. A trade is most certainly a possibility-- the question is, how much is his value right now? Limited.
Kyle Wellwood		Wellwood was acquired yesterday off waivers from the St. Louis Blues. Here is our article covering the addition.

Fear the Fin's Top Five

Logan Couture
Joe Thornton
Antti Niemi
Dan Boyle
Dany Heatley

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Comments

Seeing those green arrows for HTML gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. Now it’s just a question of keeping them pointing that way from now until the end of the season.

And you think you live in a non-traditional hockey market...
Randy Hahn: "That is one angry Swedish person."
"I flew 5,000 miles for this?"
And if you want more of this kind of thing, I'm spouting nonsense on Twitter too...

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 5:41 AM PST reply actions

I notice how much more confident Niemi seems in the net now, compared when he first started. And I admit I was one of those people that didnt like him at first, but now I see him doing better and better each game. Keep up the great work Niemi and all the other gentlemen in Teal!
GO SHARKS!!!!

"Hey! Thats my dummy!" Joe Thornton from the The Sharks A Capella Holiday Album
Lets Go Sharks!!! I still believe!!!!!!! 2011!!!!!!

by Catstoy on Jan 19, 2011 7:45 AM PST reply actions

Not Really

Actually, Niemi looked very uncomfortable at the beginning of the game. He eventually settled down later in the game, after a couple goals had been scored

by Tiberon07 on Jan 19, 2011 8:40 AM PST up reply actions

I’m not talking about any one game in general and I dont get to see every game on TV, but from what I have seen lately, he seems a bit better. Granted I am still very new at this sport, I learn as I go along. :-)

"Hey! Thats my dummy!" Joe Thornton from the The Sharks A Capella Holiday Album
Lets Go Sharks!!! I still believe!!!!!!! 2011!!!!!!

by Catstoy on Jan 19, 2011 8:47 AM PST up reply actions

No problem. I too am happy to see Niemi slowly finding his game.

by Tiberon07 on Jan 19, 2011 8:48 AM PST up reply actions

One off Kent Huskins skate. Niemi looked incredible for much of the second and third.

Fear the Fin: "I've always said that if you don't have the motivation within you... It's not Doug Wilson's job to motivate me. I've got motivation within myself, especially going through some of the experiences that I had last year." - Nick Petrecki

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 9:38 AM PST up reply actions

Clowe

Do we have any idea how long Clowe will be out for?

by HeatersLeadingLady on Jan 19, 2011 8:41 AM PST reply actions

Tmac said it would be “about a week” a couple days ago

by JamesGotALeg on Jan 19, 2011 9:19 AM PST via mobile up reply actions

I disagree with the assessments

Dan Boyle’s game is being affected by TMac’s mismanagement of his total ice time. that red arrow belongs to TMac, or better yet, DW for putting them in that poistion.

Thornton and Heatley can thank Couture for their green arrows. In this case, we can give a green arrow to Tmac for putting Couture on that line and. as a result, rejuvenate their games.

by Tiberon07 on Jan 19, 2011 8:47 AM PST reply actions

Dan Boyle not scoring at the rate we expect?

His overall scoring rate is almost exactly what I expected. He’s on pace to be in the exact same ball park of his last few seasons of around 58 points. Unless you mean only most recently, in which case I would agree

"Everybody had a part in this. As you can see, our fans love this. And we love them. And bring on the next team." -Joe Thornton

by waive kent huskins on Jan 19, 2011 9:07 AM PST reply actions

Recently, and it’s the goal scoring production.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 9:21 AM PST up reply actions

To elaborate, 16 and 15 goals in his last two seasons. On pace for just 9 this year.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 9:26 AM PST up reply actions

Good for HTML

I don’t think Logan is the reason for Heatley and Thornton’s rebound on goal/point scoring. Although, I love seeing Couture on that line. Scratch that, I like seeing the chemistry with Heatley and Couture. Nice to see Marleau pick things up too. Those 3 are the blood line to this time (plus Boyle).

I do agree that it goes on DW for Boyle’s TOI. I think DW has done a lot of amazing things for this team but his hugest blunder that we are paying for currently is the crazy, expensive signings of Huskins and Wallin. He knows this and is probably doing what he can to alieviate (sp?) the situation there- there just isn’t many top 4 D that will take what we are willing to give.

I think if Niitty got a couple starts in a row, that red arrow would turn to green. When you sit for 5-6 games at a time and get one start, you’re going to be rusty and not look “on top of your game”. I’m not saying a red arrow isn’t warranted as we haven’t seen the better Niitty lately but I do have to give him some credit there.

Overall, good team analysis Plank and TCY!

by winthecupsj on Jan 19, 2011 9:07 AM PST reply actions

Not a single green arrow in the defense. That makes me sad. We really do need some new blood on our blueline. Nice to see the goaltending and top end scoring trending up, though. It’s the main reason that we are now winning a few games. HTML, Couture, and Pavelski (and Clowe when he’s not hurt) need to carry this team offensively. We can hope Wellwood helps out on the 3rd line, but its those top two money lines that need to carry the team. When they are going well (as they have been the last two games), then the Sharks usually win…when they go silent…well, that’s bad.

Anyways, here’s to hoping the defense joins the offense in the trending up category next week!

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
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by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 9:50 AM PST reply actions

And maybe in getting some new blood...

Good to see the big boys pick it up the last two games, I really hope their worst play this season is behind us.
We’re about to run into a lot of teams who took advantage of us in the last couple months, and I say it’s high time for a little revenge and some standings climbing. Tomorrow can’t come soon enough, I’m ready to get paid and hit the bar with Slappy for a big Sharks win!

DRINKIN’ AND REVENGE!
LET’S GO SHARKS!

"That's my dummy!" - Joe Thornton, Brian Duffy
So, the caterpillar has emerged from its cocoon as a shark, with a gun for a mouth.

LET'S GO SHARKS!!!!

by CloweMyWord! on Jan 19, 2011 10:35 AM PST up reply actions

Defense Concerns

I think the concerns have been with the team defense as much as they’ve been with the individuals on the blue line. Granted, I haven’t seen every goal scored against, but there’s only so much you can do when Heatley’s floating around watching guys skate cleanly into the slot.

Backchecking and playing smart positionally is a science that usually requires some chemistry within the forward combos. I’m interested to see how the “new” lineup does, especially if there’s any semblance of consistency in the lines, with the additions and guys (hopefully) getting healthy soon.

by sirsharkie on Jan 19, 2011 10:34 AM PST reply actions

I think the concerns have been with the team defense as much as they’ve been with the individuals on the blue line.

100% correct.

I’m interested to see how the "new" lineup does

This is one of the reasons I’m very neutral on the new signings. Neither player brings much to the table defensively. Again, other than filling a roster spot, I don’t see either of them bringing anything all that noteworthy.

GO SHARKS!

They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn

What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.

by ElvisVF101 on Jan 19, 2011 11:20 AM PST up reply actions

It’s almost an addition by subtraction situation, though. I’m much more comfortable with Kyle Wellwood on the ice than Andrew Desjardins.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 11:25 AM PST up reply actions

I would be much more comfy with Shea Weber or Duncan Keith on our blueline than Kent Huskins or Nic Wallin.

Jon Casey fan since '84
Founder of Feel the Teal.
I have a Twitter Thing.

by stufflife on Jan 19, 2011 11:28 AM PST up reply actions

co-sign.

by sirsharkie on Jan 19, 2011 12:02 PM PST up reply actions

cosecant?

Jon Casey fan since '84
Founder of Feel the Teal.
I have a Twitter Thing.

by stufflife on Jan 19, 2011 12:04 PM PST up reply actions

Coruscant?

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 1:24 PM PST up reply actions

Rosicrucian?

Jon Casey fan since '84
Founder of Feel the Teal.
I have a Twitter Thing.

by stufflife on Jan 19, 2011 1:29 PM PST up reply actions

Rotaract?

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 1:32 PM PST up reply actions

Cataract?

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 1:35 PM PST up reply actions

Catacomb?

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 1:35 PM PST up reply actions

honeycomb?

Jon Casey fan since '84
Founder of Feel the Teal.
I have a Twitter Thing.

by stufflife on Jan 19, 2011 1:37 PM PST up reply actions

Bastard, just typing that then up it pops! Still, great minds and all that.

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 1:38 PM PST up reply actions

Honeymoon?

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 1:39 PM PST up reply actions

Honeysuckle?

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 1:40 PM PST up reply actions

You lose. First part, last part. Should have been "something"moon

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 1:44 PM PST up reply actions

Damn, watching soccer and playing word games clearly don’t mix. Undoubtedly defeated by a master of the art…

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 1:46 PM PST up reply actions

And now I realize we weren’t using that format at all in the beginning.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 1:46 PM PST up reply actions

I wasn’t completely aware there was a format! Fun though…

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 1:47 PM PST up reply actions

Hahhaa.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 1:48 PM PST up reply actions

Hows life back across the pond by the way? Getting psyched up for the wedding?

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 1:48 PM PST up reply actions

Good, thanks. The wedding is some way in the future yet, got to scrabble together the cash for a half-decent ring first!

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 1:57 PM PST up reply actions

Oh, no, I was talking about the Royal Wedding.

According to our media, y’all are consumed with it.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 2:07 PM PST up reply actions

Oh man, couldn’t give a crap. Don’t believe everything you hear on the news. And anyway, as you now know, I’ve got rather more pressing matrimonial issues to contend with!

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 2:12 PM PST up reply actions

Good luck to you sir! Go get your Kate Middleton!!! :P

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 2:14 PM PST up reply actions

Ha ha, I will do!

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 2:15 PM PST up reply actions

…and illustrative of why I love this place so much. There’s the hockey, yes, but the people are wonderfully bonkers too. No wonder I feel so at home.

by BritShark on Jan 19, 2011 1:48 PM PST up reply actions

bonkers → Honkers.

Jon Casey fan since '84
Founder of Feel the Teal.
I have a Twitter Thing.

by stufflife on Jan 19, 2011 2:08 PM PST up reply actions

Bonkers? Bockerz. Am I doing this correctly?

"Logan Couture is a dirty, filthy man. Tell all your friends" - Mr. Plank

by Bockerz on Jan 19, 2011 5:45 PM PST up reply actions

Yes

You win.

Jon Casey fan since '84
Founder of Feel the Teal.
I have a Twitter Thing.

by stufflife on Jan 19, 2011 9:11 PM PST up reply actions

Yeah, that’s a good point too. Desjardins isn’t ready for the NHL. Mashinter showed some promise, but will get more PT in the AHL. Will help both their developments for the long term.

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
Tweet Tweet.

by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 11:29 AM PST up reply actions

Mashinter wasn’t fully ready either. Every player on our lower lines (with the exception of McCarthy) now has playoff experience. Really important.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 11:31 AM PST up reply actions

Agreed. I only single Mashinter out because he looked the most ready of our kids who came up. He hasn’t exactly dominated the AHL yet, though…so there’s definately more he can do there. And the playoff experience is definitely important…no one will be overwhelmed should we get our shit together and make it back there…

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
Tweet Tweet.

by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 11:33 AM PST up reply actions

Andrew Desjardins was on the ice?

GO SHARKS!

They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn

What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.

by ElvisVF101 on Jan 19, 2011 11:32 AM PST up reply actions

Wahh, wahhh.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 11:36 AM PST up reply actions

When you look at how the lines breakout, when healthy, (thanks for that eloquent post yesterday on the subject) I’m much more comfortable knowing that we’re rolling some combination of Setoguchi, Wellwood, McGinn, McCarthy, Eager, Nichol, Mayers as our bottom 6.

by sirsharkie on Jan 19, 2011 12:05 PM PST up reply actions

I’m no fan of Eager’s, but I am intrigued by what Wellwood might bring to our lower line scoring. He has showed a scoring touch when he’s played in the past. Could help spark our 3rd line to be somewhat productive…

May not help defensively, but offense is important too.

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
Tweet Tweet.

by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 11:27 AM PST up reply actions

offense is important too

Can we get that on a bulletin board in the locker room?

GO SHARKS!

They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn

What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.

by ElvisVF101 on Jan 19, 2011 11:32 AM PST up reply actions

Offense is important. During the losing streak, we only scored eight goals in six games. Opponents scored 19. While that seems like a huge difference, I seem to recall that at least two of those were empty netters. Also, three of those games were one-goal losses.

Even the win before the losses started piling up was a 1-0 win over the Kings.

To recap, our defense was allowing just over a GAA of 3.1 for the course of the drought, but we only managed a GFA of 1.3. Yes, we allowed too many goals (more than we scored), but our defense was only bad compared to the offense.

Is this off-topic?

Jon Casey fan since '84
Founder of Feel the Teal.
I have a Twitter Thing.

by stufflife on Jan 19, 2011 11:34 AM PST up reply actions

Entirely ON-topic

GO SHARKS!

They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn

What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.

by ElvisVF101 on Jan 19, 2011 11:35 AM PST up reply actions

I'm with ZI on the lack of green arrows on the defense.

But I can’t say anyone deserves one there, right now.

Good to see the offense, especially the top lines, headed in the right direction again. And good to see at least one goalie with a green arrow.

I’m more excited about Wellwood than Eager at the moment, strange as that might sound. If he can come in with something to prove and good conditioning, he can bring something to the team. If that’ll happen remains to be seen, but I’ll give him the chance, at least. While still making fat jokes. I should stop. But I can’t.

I think the forwards have committed a little more strongly to defense in the past week. The Sharks had 22 blocked shots against the Blues and 10 (though they had 12 at one point, so they must have had some taken away) against the Coyotes. That’s a better set of two games than at any other time this season. The only guys without a block against Phoenix were Couture, Pavelski, Mashinter, and Seto. Since Couture and Pavelski are the usual suspects for blocks from the forwards, that’s a pretty good show of commitment that night. I doubt we’ll have a lot of 20+ block nights, but guys showing a willingness is important.

They have to build on that now. And Jumbo can’t be the only typically offense-first forward who is dedicated to a three zone game. Seto, Heater, and (to a lesser extent) Patty all have to come along for that ride.

Believing in the Sharks, one photoshop at a time. GO SHARKS!

by Auth0r on Jan 19, 2011 11:32 AM PST reply actions

Excellent point

But Patty ABSOLUTELY has to be at the top of the list for guys dedicated to a three zone game. That was effectively what got Patty on Team Canada last year, and his new contract: The fact that he’s supposed to be an elite two-way player.

GO SHARKS!

They're not getting this kind of coverage at "Hockey Night In Canada" folks! - Randy Hahn

What Jay Leach is to the San Jose Shark's Defense, I am to Fear The Fin's Mod Squad.

by ElvisVF101 on Jan 19, 2011 11:34 AM PST up reply actions

That’s been the big issue with Patty all year…not just his lack of scoring, but he’s also paid to be the one who gets back and covers on the back end too, and plays good PK minutes. He’s been coasting this year, and its especially bad for him in particular to do that, because he is being paid in large part because of his defensive work in the past.

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
Tweet Tweet.

by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 11:36 AM PST up reply actions

Yeah, that was kind of my point. He’s an elite guy for that, but he’s coasted for large chunks this year in his own zone. It worries me when I’m seeing Seto or McGinn beat Patty down the ice on a backcheck.

Believing in the Sharks, one photoshop at a time. GO SHARKS!

by Auth0r on Jan 19, 2011 11:40 AM PST up reply actions

His +/- this season agrees

But hopefully he’s on the fast track back to his usual speedy, defensively sound self. The teams has been missed it big time this season, and if he’s gonna turn it on now is the time- we haven’t a moment to lose!

"That's my dummy!" - Joe Thornton, Brian Duffy
So, the caterpillar has emerged from its cocoon as a shark, with a gun for a mouth.

LET'S GO SHARKS!!!!

by CloweMyWord! on Jan 19, 2011 11:45 AM PST up reply actions

Maybe one or two moments, but we would rather not lose them.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 11:47 AM PST up reply actions

With the way this seasons gone….

"That's my dummy!" - Joe Thornton, Brian Duffy
So, the caterpillar has emerged from its cocoon as a shark, with a gun for a mouth.

LET'S GO SHARKS!!!!

by CloweMyWord! on Jan 19, 2011 11:50 AM PST up reply actions

Kent Huskins is a +5 so sometimes I take +/- with a grain of salt lol

by winthecupsj on Jan 19, 2011 1:37 PM PST up reply actions

New third line heading to Vancouver
Should be interesting to see how they do.
Also, Clowe still out. F-ing Dustin Penner’s skate stealing away my Clowe!

"That's my dummy!" - Joe Thornton, Brian Duffy
So, the caterpillar has emerged from its cocoon as a shark, with a gun for a mouth.

LET'S GO SHARKS!!!!

by CloweMyWord! on Jan 19, 2011 2:08 PM PST reply actions

Eager on the third line confuses me a bit…but if he scores goals for us, I won’t quibble too much…

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
Tweet Tweet.

by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 2:28 PM PST up reply actions

Makes sense IMO

Since he’s the best fourth liner in the league…

/buttercrunched

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 2:41 PM PST up reply actions

Boom!

"That's my dummy!" - Joe Thornton, Brian Duffy
So, the caterpillar has emerged from its cocoon as a shark, with a gun for a mouth.

LET'S GO SHARKS!!!!

by CloweMyWord! on Jan 19, 2011 2:44 PM PST up reply actions

HA

buttercrunched…. awesome

Erlich for President

by SharksFanTillDeath on Jan 19, 2011 2:44 PM PST up reply actions

Sigh...

I wish I could comprehend such genius. My brain is of inferior quality, though… :(

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
Tweet Tweet.

by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 2:51 PM PST up reply actions

Same.

McGinn-McCarthy-Mayers as a fourth doesn’t really do much for me either, but I guess we’ll see how it shakes out.
Feels like I haven’t watched a game in ages, stupid Monday afternoon start time.
I’m ready for some Sharks, damnit!

"That's my dummy!" - Joe Thornton, Brian Duffy
So, the caterpillar has emerged from its cocoon as a shark, with a gun for a mouth.

LET'S GO SHARKS!!!!

by CloweMyWord! on Jan 19, 2011 2:43 PM PST up reply actions

Losing Nichol really takes such a huge bite out of the 4th line. It also kind of accentuates our lack of gritty centermen. It’s Nichol…or nothing. I’m not sure anything on the 4th line will look quite right til he gets back.

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
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by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 2:53 PM PST up reply actions

Seriously, that guy is a rock.

And I’m sure their minutes will be negligible, especially with McCarthy coming back from such a long break. Him and McGinn should be playing hard while we’ve still got guys out with injuries and excessive suspensions though, it’s gonna get tight down there when Clowe and Nichol come back (who knows with Mitchell).
And anybody who plays with them should have to adopt the “Mc”. Scotty McNichol, Jamal McMayers, Ben McEager- I don’t care. It’d be like St. Paddy’s day on that line every game!

"That's my dummy!" - Joe Thornton, Brian Duffy
So, the caterpillar has emerged from its cocoon as a shark, with a gun for a mouth.

LET'S GO SHARKS!!!!

by CloweMyWord! on Jan 19, 2011 3:05 PM PST up reply actions

What if we change his name to McMayers?

Does that help at all?

/useless post

Believing in the Sharks, one photoshop at a time. GO SHARKS!

by Auth0r on Jan 19, 2011 2:57 PM PST via mobile up reply actions

re: New third line heading to Vancouver

I give it 2 periods tops before TMac realizes “The Best Fourth Liner in the League” does indeed belong on the Fourth Line.

"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"

by DownRUpLYB on Jan 19, 2011 3:18 PM PST up reply actions

You think it’ll take that long for Eager to take a dumb penalty or two???

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
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by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 3:27 PM PST up reply actions

He’ll be in the box by his 3rd shift.

"Douglas Murray is a humongous human being." – Drew Remenda

by Evilducks on Jan 19, 2011 7:23 PM PST up reply actions

And then we’ll be without the best fourth liner in the league!

Believing in the Sharks, one photoshop at a time. GO SHARKS!

by Auth0r on Jan 19, 2011 10:19 PM PST via mobile up reply actions

You think it’ll take that long for Eager to take a dumb penalty or two???

Nah, but I see TMac steadfastly sticking to it for awhile.

"BEAT DAT BEAT!!!"

by DownRUpLYB on Jan 20, 2011 5:39 AM PST up reply actions

A Healthy Sharks Line-up

So, what would our four line be like when Clowe and Nichol are back. I don’t see Mitchel being back anytime soon.

Couture-Thornton-Heatley
Marleau-Pavelski-Clowe
Eager-Wellwood-Setoguchi
McGinn-Nicol-Mayers

by Tiberon07 on Jan 19, 2011 4:11 PM PST reply actions

I was thinking something similar

Heatley-Thornton-Couture
Clowe-Pavelski-Marleau
McGinn-Wellwood-Setoguchi
Eager-Nicol-Mayers

Erlich for President

by SharksFanTillDeath on Jan 19, 2011 5:01 PM PST up reply actions

assuming no one on the list is traded

Erlich for President

by SharksFanTillDeath on Jan 19, 2011 5:01 PM PST up reply actions

No Ferriero?

I think he’s played well enough this year to stick on the 3rd line…

Ferriero-Wellwood-Setoguchi
Eager-Nichol-Mayers/McGinn (someone would be a scratch)

Something like that.

"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
The Jody Shelley of FearTheFin's Mod Squad.
Tweet Tweet.

by ZeroIndulgence on Jan 19, 2011 5:10 PM PST up reply actions

This.

And if gooch ends up on the trade block I’d imagine McGinn would move to the third (assuming he doesn’t end up on the block too…)

"That's my dummy!" - Joe Thornton, Brian Duffy
So, the caterpillar has emerged from its cocoon as a shark, with a gun for a mouth.

LET'S GO SHARKS!!!!

by CloweMyWord! on Jan 19, 2011 6:19 PM PST up reply actions

Yeah, I like that last line. I’ve been genuinely happy with McGinn this season. He even had some quality chances versus Phoenix. Hopefully the goals will come, but if Mayers lacks punch I’m happy with him in there.

Though I feel like it’d be more:
Eager/Mayers-Nichol-McGinn

"Logan Couture is a dirty, filthy man. Tell all your friends" - Mr. Plank

by Bockerz on Jan 19, 2011 6:20 PM PST up reply actions

Think if Mitchell comes back, too. A forward is on their way out.

by Matthew_Taylor on Jan 19, 2011 6:57 PM PST up reply actions

A forward? My guess is two.

Seto and Mitchell are on their way out. I can taste it…

Although I wouldn’t imagine one could get much for Mitchell anymore. Does McCarthy go down when Nichol comes off suspension?

And what’s the advice (Murray’s grandfather, Lars [Lasse] Bjorn) gives him?

"Hit more people."

Take a chance. Bleed Teal.

GO SHARKS

by MiniMiteMom on Jan 19, 2011 7:03 PM PST up reply actions

I think so

I keep reading about DW trying to get Francois Beauchemin. The problem is that the Leafs keep asking for Pavs. I’m guessing DW is offering Setto and or Mitchell and draft picks.

by Tiberon07 on Jan 20, 2011 8:04 AM PST up reply actions

I’ve been impressed with Marleau recently. Dude’s been working harder it seems. He still seems to coast a bit on defense, but it seems like he also doesn’t want to over commit (and therefore under commits).

"Logan Couture is a dirty, filthy man. Tell all your friends" - Mr. Plank

by Bockerz on Jan 19, 2011 6:33 PM PST reply actions

True

Marleau tends to play harder when he’s not paired up with JT. When he’s on the JT line he keeps passing the puck to him and never makes plays himself…. sort of gets lazy.

by Tiberon07 on Jan 20, 2011 8:08 AM PST up reply actions