Sharks' Antti Niemi will start in game six against the Kings
by Mr. Plank on Apr 24, 2011 2:16 PM PDT
in 2011 Playoffs
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Down the stretch Niemi was phenomenal for San Jose. From January 15th through April 4th Niemi made 34 consecutive starts in a row, going 25-4-4 with a .927 SV% an 2.05 GAA in the process. He was named "Sharks Foundation Player of The Year", as well as earning the illustrious 2011 Fin Award for Sharks MVP. That performance made it difficult for Sharks Head Coach Todd McLellan to give his backups playing time, and with a mere four appearances since January 13th for Niittymaki, questions of whether or not he is ready for a postseason start in game six on the road are relevant.
And while Niittymaki's performances in relief have been good, they haven't exactly been great-- San Jose has dominated play in front of him, with very little Kings scoring chances having to be stymied.
The fact of the matter is, the Sharks committed to Niemi in March on two levels. When Niittymaki returned to the team following his injury, Niemi continued to receive starts, playing in back to back games down the stretch. None were more clear-cut than the final weekend of the regular season which saw Niemi start a home and home against Phoenix with the Pacific Division title already clinched.
Furthermore, there is the undeniable fact that the organization gave him a four year $15.2 MM contract on March 1st of this year. This isn't to say that the size of a contract is dictating playing time-- far from it. What it is to say is that the organization clearly has a lot of confidence in the 27 year old Finn, which is in no small part due to the Stanley Cup ring he earned last postseason.
Niemi bounced back in game four-- whether he bounces back in game six won't be known until the game gets underway, even if historical data suggests that Niemi does play well after a bad start. With San Jose facing down Los Angeles’ Jonathan Quick, who was absolutely brilliant last night during the course of his 52 save performance, all eyes will be on Niemi to match that type of game-changing ability.
Because if he struggles again early in the first the decision will once again come down to which goaltender inspires more confidence to win hockey games.
Confidence that, at this point, is beginning to waver more than many expected it ever could in mid-March.
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I'm not surprised by this decision.
Nemo bounced back from Game 3 to Game 4, and I expect him to do the same in Game 6. If he can’t and struggles again, I think they should hand the reins to Nitty not just in relief, but on a more permanent basis.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take"-Wayne Gretzky"-Michael Scott.
by SharksFanEst.1994 on Apr 24, 2011 2:22 PM PDT reply actions
A certain 4 year contract extension would like to have a word with you.
"Skillet, we just spent $64,000 in that bar. So we're gonna have to get jobs to cover up the fact that we rob banks" -Mouse Fitzgerald
While I agree, the Sharks made him the future...
I’m trying to win right NOW… not next year or the year after or the year after.
I for one prefer Sushi to Nemo. T-Mac probably thinks Nitty’s good track record in these games is only because of how taking Niemi out makes the team work harder on defense. In other words, he doesn’t see much in Maki.
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by YeahTommyB4ZGermansGetThere on Apr 24, 2011 2:29 PM PDT reply actions
I'm with whatever decision puts us in the best position to win.
If this is the best decision, then I am all for it.
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I understand what you guys are saying, but I’m going to have to disagree here.
Niemi has an .850 SV% against probably the weakest offensive team to make the playoffs. Despite the Sharks coming out each and every game with strong pushes in the 1st period, Niemi has given up goals in each game except G4 to absolutely destroy any momentum the Sharks were carrying. In my opinion, Niemi is having the single worst series by a Sharks goaltender in playoff history, including Nabokov’s 2008 against Anaheim. The only difference is that the Sharks are playing very strong offensively to compensate.
Nitty hasn’t been stellar, but to say he was not tested last game is severly underestimating his impact. He was very good, bordering on great, made every routine save and a handful of great saves, including one spectacular save that has been the save of the series thus far. I would go so far to say that there is no relevant argument that he is not ready for a playoff start. This isn’t about Nitty, it is about the franchise hitching its cart to Niemi. I know what the team will say, but I wonder how the team feels seeing Nitty perform so well and not get rewarded with a start.
In the end, I don’t think this is a mistake that will cost the Sharks. In fact, I think it is much more likely that Niemi will be spectacular than Nitty. But right now, I have far more confidence that Nitty will be at least solid, which is all the Sharks need to punch a ticket to the next round.
Niemi numbers make him the worst goaltender in the playoffs, the regular season is truely over
Why is this article so quick to defend Nemo and overlook the effort Nitty has put in so far. He wasn’t challenged as much as Nemo? Nemo couldn’t make it 4 shots last night but from the way this article makes it sound every scoring opportunity after Nitty came in was weak? This team dominated in front of him? Hardly, He saved them from getting scored on again last nite on some pretty tough shots. Niemi is great but right now he is slipping and Nitty is on his game IMO. This article was so dismissive of Nitty and his efforts, and to say he was good is a huge understatement. In the beginning of the season Nitty wasn’t playing well and lost his spot. Now Niemi is stumbling but because he gets payed a lot he need to be kept in goal? That sounds like he’s too big to fail, and we all know how great situations described like that end up.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 3:07 PM PDT up reply actions
As much as I'm not entirely sure I agree with giving Nemo the pass, in terms of blame
Blaming a goalie for letting in 3 goals on 4 shots is an entirely ridiculous thing to do, on principle. If those goals were weak, it can be a completely valid criticism, but number of goals per number of shots is not something a goalie should ever be blamed for. You have to look at the shots.
In any case, Nemo is being played because he’s the proven goaltender, not because of his paycheck.
I looked at them a few times
I think all three were soft. He passed the puck to the kings on the first one and that deflection wasn’t that great, he just took forever to hit his knees. The second was just as bad with his glove dribbling like Kobe. The third one came from way back and he just didn’t make the easiest save of them. When i look at those i see soft goals and a reason to start nitty. Nemo is going to play though and i hope he does great but i don’t see how you can talk about accountability to your other players and just give your goaltender the free pass every time he messes up.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 6:41 PM PDT up reply actions
Did you just start watching when the playoffs started?
Nitty and Nemo split time this year. Nitty didn’t lose his spot he got hurt and Nemo stepped up and took us on a great run. He is slipping a little but the D is making bad decision and comminting turnovers that lead to goals from being out of position
by 707Shark on Apr 24, 2011 8:50 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
really?
He lost his spot just because he got hurt? I remember seeing a slow turn towards nemo before nitty ever got hurt but maybe i was just imagining that.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 10:39 PM PDT up reply actions
I’m not necessarily disagreeing with you about who should get the start, but I think the Coyotes were proven to be the weakest playoff team by getting swept and never putting up much of a fight. Their big players hardly showed up, their usually all-world goalie had the wheels come off, and their lack of offensive depth was exposed at every turn.
At this point, I think the Kings are closer to stepping up to the next tier than the Coyotes. Quick and Bernier aren’t Bryzgalov scary (but Quick sure made it close last night), but they’re more than solid. Their defense is one of the best in the league and they’re developing good young forwards they’ll be able to hold on to. The Kings are going to be around for a while barring some kind of disaster.
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by Auth0r on Apr 24, 2011 3:38 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
True true
Perhaps the Coyotes were a weaker team, but the Kings are the weakest “offensive” team. And I certainly agree that their forwards could develop into great players, but right now they are very likely the worst offensive team in the field.
Maybe the article didn’t read as clearly as I thought it did (although after reading it again I think it does), but I wasn’t trying to make a case against Niittymaki. This paragraph
And while Niittymaki’s performances in relief have been good, they haven’t exactly been great— San Jose has dominated play in front of him, with very little Kings scoring chances having to be stymied.
seems to have some hang ups, and that’s fine. I stand by it due to the fact that I don’t think Niittymaki has played great according to my eye (he’s been rusty going post to post, his save of the series was one that saw him out of position on his stomach and, in my opinion, was due to luck more than a great read). Even still of course, it’s hard to dispute the numbers— even with all the qualitative observations, Niittymaki has only let in one goal, which makes him the superior option quantitatively. I completely get that.
At any rate, I was merely trying to illustrate the thought process that’s going on in the Sharks organization right now.
Fact of the matter is, McLellan decided to go with Niemi towards the end of the year and he’s going to stick to his guns until circumstances severely change otherwise. Two poor outings aren’t going to be enough to change his decision on Niemi, and I think he’s wary to start Niittymaki due to the fact that he hasn’t had much experience down the stretch (which obviously was a decision that he is the sole cause of). Niitty’s come in during relatively “safe” situations where the Sharks have dominated play, a lack of pressure on him to consistently make the big saves. He gave him a shot in Anaheim and the team got trounced 6-2. The organization signed Niemi to a 4 year deal in March, a decision that McLellan has say in (DW does get input from the head coach when signing contracts obviously). Everything is in Niemi’s favor in this circumstance, and it’s going to be that way until he really proves that he doesn’t deserve the starting role.
Actions speak louder than words in this circumstance, and when McLellan’s words are reinforcing his actions, it’s pretty clear where the goaltending situation is headed. When McLellan changes who he starts in a playoff game, that change is going to be permanent. If he gives the keys to Niittymaki in game six, he wants to be comfortable with the idea of starting him in game seven if the Sharks lose and he plays a mediocre game. Right now he’s not comfortable with that, and is going to give Niemi one last chance (maybe more!) to prove himself. It’s the same way the organization handled Nabokov when he was here.
It’s not a matter of dismissing Niittymaki as being the starting goaltender in game six. It’s dismissing the idea that he would have been the starting goaltender in game six. The choice was made months ago. I’m not surprised in the slightest.
"San Jose is where I want to be at the end of the day, and there's an opportunity now to make it there. It is where my heart is." - Jamie McGinn, 2/22/10
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He gave him a shot in Anaheim and the team got trounced 6-2.
I don’t think that game was all on Nitty, though. The whole team really didn’t show up, and kinda left him out to dry. I remember seeing red that whole game wondering why the team would allow themselves to demoralize him that way. Horrible forecheck. And don’t even get me started on the D (except for White, whom always puts in 110%).
IMO, of course, but please correct me if I missed something.
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I don’t want to criticize too much, as I am such a fan of your guy’s work. But, the piece comes of not only as elucidating the thought process of the Sharks in sticking with Niemi, it also comes of as agreeing with the decision to stick with Niemi. It partly does that by dismissing his poor play with examples of his success this season while simultaneaously calling into question the actual success Nitty has had thus far in the playoffs.
Honestly, I don’t think many people are surprised in this decision, knowing the coaching staff’s track record with goaltenders, the infatuation with “playoff success,” and the committment made to Niemi financially.
What I think most are disagreeing with is the wisdom of that decision (again, a decision the article seems to agree with). I said it above, Niemi has probably had the single worst goaltending performance over a series in Sharks history. Nitty has proven he can be adequate. If the Canucks can sit Louongo, and the Canadiens can sit Price last year, and the Red Wings can sit Dominik Hasek years ago, then the Sharks should be able to do what’s best for the team and sit Niemi, at least for a game. There is a lack of accountability there, and has been there for the goaltenders in San Jose. I guess I was a little bit surprised that you guys seem to agree that was the best decision for this team, ’tis all.
by ruben398 on Apr 24, 2011 10:38 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
That is because it is still likely to be the best decision simply based on the quality of shots shown. You seem to be hung up on this “he’s getting paid a lot so the coaches think they must play him” despite the fact that the article specifically comments against this.
Nitty has played 2 games, totaling 91 minutes so far, and only faced 30 shots. Most of those were routine saves. No one is saying he is bad, he obviously played good enough.
But good enough is NOT good enough when the score is 0-0 and the other team isn’t coasting. In both games he came in on we were able to swing momentum and keep any real scoring chances from him through a combination of lax offensive play because of the degree of the Kings lead combined with our own offensive puck control domination.
The epitome of this was the King’s only power play in game 5, even the announcers commented on how unmotivated it was. The Kings had already turtled up, they didn’t extend themselves to get any real chances.
Again, Nitty played well in the situation he found himself in, but the organization and most of the fan base has more confidence that Niemi will be the one to stand on his head and make the necessary crazy saves when the game is on the line from a 0-0 score onward.
this is stupid
If we do not advance, TM needs to go, 3 years of playoff failure, and at no point has the majority of this team played with pride or heart.
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We're up 3-2
We’re going into Game 6. “If we do not advance…” c’mon, be positive man!
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I can't agree with this.
We’ve made it to the playoffs every year under TMac. Effort on Ice is all about the players.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
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I think any Juniors/ECHL/AHL coach
could lead this team to to the playoffs with the talent on the roster.
and at no point has the majority of this team played with pride or heart.
So, you’re telling me that during the game 3 comeback only a minority of the players on the bench were playing with “pride” and “heart”? If your lazy blanket statement was true, which it is not, we would be looking back at 3 straight first round exits. Hell, we wouldn’t even have made the playoffs at all!
The best hockey players in the world make up the NHL, battling each other in one of the world’s most physically demanding and dangerous sports, for at least 82 contests a year. No player or team can simply coast on his/her God given talents and hope to succeed.
The only one showing neither pride nor heart is you, being a member of this site for two and a half years, and only showing up to yell “FIRE THE COACH” every year. How would you like it if I went to talking chop and just started spamming Brooks Conrad gifs? Wouldn’t like it, would you?
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Appreciate with what we have
i know we are all starving for a Stanley Cup, but I rather be a good team going to the playoffs and having a chance at the playoffs, than being back to a bottomfeeder team in the league.
Do not take it for granted… I did that with my SF 49ers with Steve Mariucci… After he was let go, well you know the rest…
with the 7th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. The San Francisco 49ers select.......
having a chance at the Stanley Cup*
with the 7th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. The San Francisco 49ers select.......
This is no doubt a purely business move.
DW and TM are solidifying Nemo’s position as the starting goaltender because of the decision by DW to sign Nemo to a long term contract.
I somehow doubt SVSE are pulling DW’s strings here. The gentlemen in suits in the board room know a Cup is the best advertising of their product out there, and will let the hockey operations guys do their thing.
"Skillet, we just spent $64,000 in that bar. So we're gonna have to get jobs to cover up the fact that we rob banks" -Mouse Fitzgerald
That is taking previous articles here and stretching them WAY out of context.
"Skillet, we just spent $64,000 in that bar. So we're gonna have to get jobs to cover up the fact that we rob banks" -Mouse Fitzgerald
Flag and move on. Trying to antagonize (flame-baiting) is also trolling.
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Although I prefer Nitty in net tomorrow
if TMAC has faith in Nemo, then let him start. I think he can redeem himself and shut the Kings down. But I think regardless of who’s in net, forwards and d men have to start well, like they did in game 1. Also, a disciplined Shark team needs to show up. No stupid penalties! I repeat no stupied penalties! Do not engage the Kings in a sideshow to get us to lose focus.
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 3:34 PM PDT reply actions
What can't happen
We can’t give them another 3-0 lead for the 4th time this series. It’s a little disturbing they we have surrendered 3 or more goals in 4 of the 5 games so far. Last year, the Avalanche hung with us, but they didn’t really score against us except for Game 2. On top of it all, LA is missing their best player.
by ninersdd on Apr 24, 2011 3:42 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
Better pull him after one goal
All I can say is if Todd and Doug wanna use him go ahead but please PLEASE PULL him if they get one in the first 5 min
Luongo isn't starting tonite
So if Vancouver can open their eyes and make a change, why can’t the Sharks?
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 4:31 PM PDT reply actions
Well said
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Apples and oranges.
Schneider is a hot young up and comer who has played great during most of the chances he’s gotten. Nitty is an older goalie who has been historically streaky and hasn’t played much lately because of injuries and coaching decisions. In the same number of games, Schneider has posted a .926 save percentage and Nitty has posted an .896; Nitty’s GAA is a half point higher.
I will not deny being terribly disappointed in Niemi last game (and to a slightly lesser degree the defense), and at least a part of me wants a Nitty start. But we’re not at all in the same situation as Vancouver. They have a young goalie who is going to challenge Luongo next year; we won’t have that until Stalock is ready, should Stalock recover fully and live up to potential.
Believing in the Sharks, one photoshop at a time. GO SHARKS!
So you are going to compare the 2 like that?
if the team had been playing the way they did the second half of the season when he was getting his starts then the numbers wouldn’t be different? Schneider will go somewhere else before he takes that job unless he shows up big for them and gets the benefit of Luongo actually being injured like some think he is. God save him if he stinks up the joint. The coach knows they need a change though, so he gave the back-up a shot. A lot of people are talking about Nitty like he isn’t capable of being a starter but Doug Wilson seemed to think he was at first. Keep talking about the team waking up, but maybe they just play with more confidence when Nitty is in net now because Nemo has been weak this series.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 5:21 PM PDT up reply actions
You compared them first.
I just brought numbers into it. Also, I didn’t say Nitty couldn’t start. I, in fact, said I wouldn’t be against it and that I was disappointed in Niemi. As I have been saying since last night. But you compared our situation to Vancouver’s. And the situation is only the same in the way that the team leading the series has had issues in two or three games with the play of their number one goalie. Schneider is not equal to Niittymaki, regardless of how I feel about Nitty starting.
Believing in the Sharks, one photoshop at a time. GO SHARKS!
issues in one or 2 games?lol
The Sharks have been bad in every game, and the only reason everyone is cool with game 3 is because they came back in a way that has only happened 3 other times in NHL history. They have been bad with the puck and horrible on defense in every game and they should just stay away from the boards since they are so scared to play on them. The kings have been just as bad in a lot of ways but they have a goaltender that can steal games. You want to pretend that you can only compare the canucks in one or two ways to the Sharks then go ahead, but i think they are pretty damn similar, and if the canucks lose to the hawks then the team will be nearly identical when it comes to postseason disappointment. I never meant to contrast and compare schneider and nitty because your right that they don’t match up this regular season. The regular season is over and schneider has 0 wins while nitty has one and only let in one goal. I will take Nitty at the moment, he has earned he start.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 6:32 PM PDT up reply actions
Luuuuu might be injured
but in game 6 of their series, he just replaced an injured Schneider in the 3rd. It’s all on Luongo now.
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This post was obviously made before the game finished, but if you watched the Canucks/Hawks game then you KNOW why it isn’t always a good idea to do what they did. 2 of the 3 Hawks goals were DIRECTLY caused by total misplays by Schneider.
Good just isn’t good enough.
Besides, they only sat Luongo simply because he has trouble letting go of past games. Niemi doesn’t have this problem, as he has shown many times in the reg season and in Game 4.
Hate to drag this on, but
simply because he has trouble letting go of past games
Nabby had this problem when he was with the Sharks.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
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I'm actually fine with this
I prefer Nemo to Nitty any night. Nemo’s been a bit shabby in 2 of his starts, but solid otherwise. Nitty’s been solid when asked to play. Frankly, I’m fine with either in net.. and if it’s Nemo, it’s Nemo.
The team in front needs to start the game off better. And they need to score goals on Quick. He’s been solid, but they have to find a way. I don’t think this is a bad move by TMac, but we’ll see what happens.
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Just popping in for a sec to say...
That bunch of divers in LA don’t DESERVE to take their theatrics to the 2nd round. Get it done, Sharks.
(Notice, I didn’t say ’git ’er done because yes, some people in Texas actually have a reasonably competent command of the English language.)
Good luck wishes from your most hated hockey city in Dallas.
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by Angelou Del Angel on Apr 24, 2011 6:14 PM PDT reply actions
Thanks for the good word
I hope the Sharks close-out the series in game 6!
BTW: Dal., however, is not the #30 team on my list of how well I like a team, even though many Sharks fans would disagree. There are 9 teams below Dal. on that list, and 5 of them are in the Western Conf. Many of us Sharks fans were actually pulling for your team to make the playoffs instead of Chi.
(now someone is going to call me out on my list, hehe) ;-)
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Nope.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
Hawks?
And what’s the advice (Murray’s grandfather, Lars [Lasse] Bjorn) gives him?
"Hit more people."
GO SHARKS.
I'll give up these only
A team that my dislike-of goes way back into the ’80’s:
The team that is #30 on my list = Pit.
But Ana. is #15 in the Western Conference.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
Anaheim specifically
or any team Corey Perry is on? :)
And what’s the advice (Murray’s grandfather, Lars [Lasse] Bjorn) gives him?
"Hit more people."
GO SHARKS.
Ana.
never liked ’em from the start.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
Detroit's #30 on mine.
Fuck Detroit.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
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by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 8:07 PM PDT up reply actions
#29 for me
- goes straight to the anaheim fucks.
by tealstherealdeal92 on Apr 24, 2011 8:19 PM PDT up reply actions
I used to hate Anaheim.
But, being that I base my like or dislike of a team solely on their jerseys and logo (I’m dead serious o_o), Anaheim jumped a couple spots with their orange-on-black home jerseys.
Los Angeles got bonus points with their purple throwbacks, and with their Chevrolet Kings logo, but their current playoff jerseys are horrible.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 8:35 PM PDT up reply actions
So you like Anaheim better because of their new logos?
Or moved them up a few spots out of pity for their ridiculously hideous new “logo”. It’s not a logo at all. I, for one, actually miss the old Ducks jerseys.
"Logan Couture is a dirty, filthy man. Tell all your friends" - Mr. Plank
Member of the Torrey Mitchell Fan Club
i liked the old ones way better too....
the new ones just make them look really douchey. which they are. regardless, I have always hated the ducks because of players like corey perry, chris pronger, teemu selane (and how badly he sucked on the sharks), and the great class of randy carlyle, etc going further back into history
not to mention they’ve always been classless douches
not to mention i will admit paul karyia was the shit
not to mention they gave us huskins AND moen. what the fuck?
by tealstherealdeal92 on Apr 24, 2011 9:05 PM PDT up reply actions
I loved the old purple and green jerseys.
They were amazing. Best jersey ever goes to Sharks or the original Coyotes jersey.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 9:27 PM PDT up reply actions
Oh, no, their logo is awful.
I was saying I like this new jersey with the orange on it compared to those all-black monstrosities they’d been wearing previously.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 9:28 PM PDT up reply actions
Sheeze, what have I started?
Way O T! :-)
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
trouble maker! :-P
"Sometimes the only sense you can make out of life is a sense of humor!"
Lets Go Sharks!!! I still believe!!!!!!! 2011!!!!!!
I guess he'll be starting game 7 too.
I’M TODD MCLELLAN, DERP DERP DERP.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
don’t say that (unless you’re using reverse psychology).
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 6:32 PM PDT up reply actions
I don’t agree with giving Nemo a pass at all. He crapped the bed. The first goal was off a dumb play by him, and the next two were totally stoppable and he couldn’t get it done. He’s let three or more goals go by in the past four games. Something’s gotta give here.
He shit the bed in 3 of 5 games.
That’s unacceptable. His save % last night was .250.
But what do you do? Switch to Niitty and keep him until he blows up too?
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 6:37 PM PDT up reply actions
The choice as it stands
Hope the chronic bed-wetter has finished emptying his bladder for the series or try somebody who’s looked pretty good his last couple of times out. It sounds like TM is going with option 1, which worries me a bit.
I tend to agree
TMC had always said he’d “ride the hot hand” of whichever goalie was performing better, before Nitty was injured. Nitty never really got a chance to get the hot hand, but has it now in the playoffs. So then,…???
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
If they hadn’t given Nemo the big extension, I’d say you have a point. But I think, at this point, it’s time for them to just come out and admit that Nemo is our #1.
by Rhapsody in Teal on Apr 24, 2011 8:23 PM PDT up reply actions
IMHO
Do what it takes to win. Play the players that are playing better, to get the win, regardless of who is the #1, who is the “top line”, who has the biggest contracts, who usually plays the most minutes. If someone else is doing better than one of the “top” players, then TMC and the “leaders” need to do what it takes to win. Including ripping the team a new (expletive) when they need it, instead of whitewashing losses.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
by Soloact on Apr 24, 2011 8:35 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
^ This.
But if it were all about winning, we’d put a snarling Douglas Murray in net to scare the other team into their own end. Pic related.
DOUGLAS MURRAY PILEDRIVER.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 8:38 PM PDT up reply actions
I think it's the right decision
Starting Niitty might actually be the better decision for tomorrow’s game, but I think starting Niemi is the smarter decision if we want to go all the way this year (which IS our goal, after all).
But if Niemi plays poorly again tomorrow night then you gotta go into survival mode. You forget about Niemi’s contract and making a cup run, and play Niitty to try and avoid elimination.
I might be crazy but i kinda think our team is gonna play their asses off tomorrow and it’s not gonna matter who’s in net anyways.
No, I don't think you're crazy
because I think so too. Like I said, Game 6 is going to be the Sharks’ best game this series. D will be tightened up, PP’s will be taken advantage of, and HTML is going to have its best game. And, of course, the Sharks will win.
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 6:56 PM PDT up reply actions
and besides
didn’t we win last year’s series in Colorado in Game 6 at Colorado? Stay positive.
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 7:16 PM PDT up reply actions
instead of “in Colorado” I mean “against Colorado.”
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 7:26 PM PDT up reply actions
an HTML appearance might make me slit my own throat.
Havent we learned that line just doesn’t work right most of the time?
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
Bleeding teal since 1997
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
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by Noctro on Apr 24, 2011 10:19 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
No, I just have a lot of faith in this team (even though every game has nearly given me a freaking heart attack)
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 7:05 PM PDT reply actions
LUONGO BLEW IT!lol
Totally coughed up the easy rebound and lost it in overtime as the back up, still has no wins in relief. That was great
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 7:53 PM PDT reply actions
he was on his stomach…
And what’s the advice (Murray’s grandfather, Lars [Lasse] Bjorn) gives him?
"Hit more people."
GO SHARKS.
He should of held on to the puck
He came in right at the start of the third and was bobbling everything, i was getting sick of hearing the announcers talk about it.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 8:00 PM PDT up reply actions
Also i think he was still on a knee when that went in.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 8:01 PM PDT up reply actions
I was wrong he was on his gut
but he should have held on to the first shot
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 8:03 PM PDT up reply actions
Look at that shot again and tell me how any goaltender can catch a puck with their blocker.
"Skillet, we just spent $64,000 in that bar. So we're gonna have to get jobs to cover up the fact that we rob banks" -Mouse Fitzgerald
i lol-ed. i mean, the puck deflected everywhere and he got handcuffed. he was lucky to find the first shot with his blocker. i dont blame him for that goal much at all
by tealstherealdeal92 on Apr 24, 2011 9:07 PM PDT up reply actions
He didn't get handcuffed
He for some reason just fell over and left himself out of position after the first save. I think he was a bit over-zealous when he went for the puck and let himself off balance
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 11:23 PM PDT up reply actions
I watched the whole game and yeah i made a mistake and it went blocker side
But the great luongo should of handled that better, he could of sent it elsewhere. It was a weak play by him and if you watched him since he took over in the third you would know he looked off the whole time. Dropping everything and looking everywhere for pucks, he looked lost.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 10:42 PM PDT up reply actions
Anyone have the link to sharks statistics page(poster)?
Is our record better against Van, Chi or Preds?
And what’s the advice (Murray’s grandfather, Lars [Lasse] Bjorn) gives him?
"Hit more people."
GO SHARKS.
There's no possible way for San Jose to play Nashville.
Except in the Conference Final.
It’s going to be between the Blackhawks and the Dead Things. Pretty sure San Jose beat up on both teams this year.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 7:56 PM PDT up reply actions
Let's wait till the Sharks win first :-)
but yeah – not sure who I’d rather play if the Sharks do win…Red Wings are rested and Hawks are hot if they do win…
Go Sharks!
Doesn't matter to me because
if we’re going to win this thing, it shouldn’t matter which team we end up facing. We must take every round and every opponent seriously.
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 8:08 PM PDT up reply actions
^thank you
thats what i say, every time.
by tealstherealdeal92 on Apr 24, 2011 9:08 PM PDT up reply actions
We've done well bs both...
But I think CHI would be the better early option. No rest for the wicked.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
Bleeding teal since 1997
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
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by Noctro on Apr 24, 2011 10:22 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Bs-> versus
(#&€* you, iPhone)
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
Bleeding teal since 1997
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
Welcome to Fear the Fin...where we eat our own.
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by Noctro on Apr 24, 2011 10:23 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
I’m gonna guess Chicago at 3-1-0. I believe we lost 2 to Vancouver. Not sure on the Preds.
Believing in the Sharks, one photoshop at a time. GO SHARKS!
I think we were tied with the Preds and all games were really close. The ones the Sharks won were in OT. Remember clutch Marleau and his OT winners
"What happens in the broadcast booth stays in the broadcast booth." Randy Hahn
"Pity is the drug of quitters" Drew Remenda
by hautecouture on Apr 24, 2011 8:44 PM PDT up reply actions
Sharks vs. Van. Chi. Nash. Det.
I think I got them all, in order.
Sharks 5-2 Chi.
Vanc. 6-1 Sharks
Det 5-3 Sharks
Sharks 5-2 Det
Sharks 2-1 Chi
Nash 3-2 Sharks
Sharks 5-3 Chi
Vanc 4-3 Sharks
Nash 2-1 Sharks
Sharks 2-1 Vanc
Sharks 2-1 Nash
Sharks 4-3 Det
Sharks 3-1 Det
Sharks 3-2 Nash
Vanc 5-4 Sharks
Chi 6-3 Sharks
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
Awesome--exactly what I wanted. Thank you!!!
Why did I remember us beating the Canucks more?
And what’s the advice (Murray’s grandfather, Lars [Lasse] Bjorn) gives him?
"Hit more people."
GO SHARKS.
Probably because of OTs and SOs.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
And they all called me crazy when I said Hawks in 7!
Who’s laughing now, MENSA?!
… Though I’ll admit my Coyotes in 4 prediction was a bit off.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
It DID end in four. You were on it.
by Rhapsody in Teal on Apr 24, 2011 8:21 PM PDT up reply actions
OH my...
The Hawks could actually pull this off…amazing…
"What happens in the broadcast booth stays in the broadcast booth." Randy Hahn
"Pity is the drug of quitters" Drew Remenda
I've been saying
if the Hawks comeback, I would not bet against them beating the ‘Nucks in Game 7. This definitely is a tough postion for the ’Nucks to be in. At least we weren’t up 3-0, won the President’s Trophy, had pretty much every single analyst picking us to win the Stanley Cup, and then blow the 3-0 lead to a team that is arguably weaker than the team that has beaten us in the past two years. That’s gotta hurt. It would be interesting to see how the ’Nucks respond in Game 7.
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 8:03 PM PDT reply actions
What a bizarre playoffs for goalies.
And what’s the advice (Murray’s grandfather, Lars [Lasse] Bjorn) gives him?
"Hit more people."
GO SHARKS.
Please Hockey Gods....
Give Nemo the strength to block pucks… and all the other Sharks players the strength to get this done in LA. They can do it! I have faith and I believe!!!!! Come on guys, you can do it! Believe in yourselves and the all Mighty Lord Stanley Cup!
Please……. WIN! BEAT LA.
:-)
"Sometimes the only sense you can make out of life is a sense of humor!"
Lets Go Sharks!!! I still believe!!!!!!! 2011!!!!!!
I have proposed on our boards at Defending Big D...
…that we start a “cult of the hockey gods” to appease them.
"Our GM,
who art in the front office,
on Conn Smythe be thy name…"
by Angelou Del Angel on Apr 24, 2011 8:20 PM PDT up reply actions
Chicago-Vancouver going to game 7. Anaheim eliminated. What a day.
by Rhapsody in Teal on Apr 24, 2011 8:20 PM PDT reply actions
What a (good) day.
Nashville better win the cup if the Sharks blow it again.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 8:33 PM PDT up reply actions
Count me in on jumping on the Nashville bandwagon in the unlikely event of a Sharks implosion. By bouncing the Ducks out and doing it with some real d, they’re now my second favorite team. They put Perry, Getzlaf, and Ryan on quiet!
by sharksfanwithajd on Apr 24, 2011 8:36 PM PDT up reply actions
I've always liked the Nashvilles though.
No bandwagon for me!
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 8:47 PM PDT up reply actions
Things could be worse...
We could be Nuck fans…
"Douglas Murray is a humongous human being." – Drew Remenda
Tweet Tweet
excellent point
And what’s the advice (Murray’s grandfather, Lars [Lasse] Bjorn) gives him?
"Hit more people."
GO SHARKS.
It actually does make me feel much better
"What happens in the broadcast booth stays in the broadcast booth." Randy Hahn
"Pity is the drug of quitters" Drew Remenda
by hautecouture on Apr 24, 2011 8:40 PM PDT up reply actions
Things could be worse...
We could be Leafs fans.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 8:40 PM PDT up reply actions
I'm thinking more immediatly
Plenty of leafs fans have settled into a state of sarcastic self deprecation. They’re not phased right now from missing the playoffs. It’s expected.
"Douglas Murray is a humongous human being." – Drew Remenda
Tweet Tweet
Toronto is in desperate need of a second franchise.
Right now, the team is selling out on a nightly basis by icing an AHL team. It literally has no competition in the area, unless you count Buffalo. It’s important to remember, though, the people from Toronto are pretentious fucks that think Buffalo is the last layer of Hell or something.
"What has two thumbs and resembles a tool shed... THIS GUY."
"Why a tool shed?"
"It's where all the hoes are at."
by Evil Stanchion on Apr 24, 2011 9:26 PM PDT up reply actions
Friend of mine IS a Canucks fan, and his reply was only resignation. That he knew it was going to happen the second Dallas failed to get into the playoffs. I just laughed and laughed and laughed. Poor Luongo, can’t shake your demons from game to game. Yes please, lose game 7 so we can smush the Hawks into the ground.
I don't believe in "choking" in the playoffs
But what Vancouver is doing… bah, it’s pathetic. Did anyone see the first three games? Chicago looked absolutely pathetic. Frankly, I still don’t think they’re that good of a team regardless of their comeback, but it’s disappointing.
As much as I dislike the Canucks, I’m pissed off that Hawks fans now have something to rub in other people’s faces.
"Logan Couture is a dirty, filthy man. Tell all your friends" - Mr. Plank
Member of the Torrey Mitchell Fan Club
I am rooting for the ‘Nucks cuz their my 2nd favorite team but also because I dislike Hawk fans so much, they don’t need or deserve more things to be happy about. They got their ring and THAT was too much for them.
"You can't stop him, you can only hope to contain Kent Huskins!" - Randy Hahn 2/13/11
by pooponastick on Apr 24, 2011 9:24 PM PDT up reply actions
I wouldn’t mind a chance to get some revenge on the Hawks.
"If you can accept losing, you can't win." ~Vince Lombardi
Member of FearTheFin's Mod Squad and The Knights Who Say NI-emi...
Tweet Tweet.
by ZeroIndulgence on Apr 24, 2011 9:24 PM PDT up reply actions
That would be quite fun.
"You can't stop him, you can only hope to contain Kent Huskins!" - Randy Hahn 2/13/11
by pooponastick on Apr 24, 2011 9:26 PM PDT up reply actions
Agree...
…but getting knocked out in the 1st roun of a run they didn’t earn Won’t hurt my feelings much. Seriously. Relying on a Dallas fail to squeeze in was kinda weak.
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
Bleeding teal since 1997
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
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by Noctro on Apr 24, 2011 10:29 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Ditto.
Let the quest for Lord Stanley's Cup begin!!! GO SHARKS!
by SharkMonster on Apr 24, 2011 11:12 PM PDT up reply actions
I’d rather face the B’hawks than the ‘Nucks. ’Nucks have been streaking like mofos all season. With such inconsistencies as the Sharks have had this series, I wouldn’t want to chance it against the ‘Nucks with their huge season. I think if you sneak a few games past the B’Hawks you can easily close out the series.
Born in SOUTH TROY, NY, Sharks Fan since '91.
"You do that, you go to the box, you know. Two minutes, by yourself, you know and you feel shame, you know. And then you get free. "-Denis Lemieux
Do you mean rather B’hawks than Det? Those would be the possibilities for round two, pending the outcome of Vanc-Chi game 7, should the Sharks finally close L.A. out on Monday.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
Nitty will play tomorrow ,one blown save pull nemo
TODD go give him a shot but if one gets past him early pull his ass we need a win!!!
Quick let in 12 goals in 2 games
then dropped 51 saves on us. Apparently sticking with your starter isn’t always a bad decision.
Anything in this thread worth reading?
I was skimming but it seems like the same old tired arguments and some of the old reverse-bandwagon whining…
Proud member of the "Bring Back Semenov" Club
"The only crying allowed in hockey is when you lose a playoff series, retire or JR is speaking publicly." - Jamie Baker
"You are down with the homies, my friend." - Randy Hahn
Kent Huskins cares.
Ditto.
And congrats to the Preds. History WAS made…
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
Bleeding teal since 1997
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
Welcome to Fear the Fin...where we eat our own.
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by Noctro on Apr 24, 2011 10:31 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Yeah, that was awesome
I’m not close enough to truly enjoy it, but I’m still pretty excited.
Really hoping that the Sharks and Preds can meet in the WCF (and that I can actually manage to find tickets!)
by Old Kentucky Shark on Apr 24, 2011 10:40 PM PDT up reply actions
There are tickets out there
but ****, the prices are higher than this planet’s sky!
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
Seats at Bridgestone Arena
Aren’t too bad. I think there’s still a bunch availble under $50, at least for the WCSF, though no idea if they’d jump in price for a WCF game or not.
by Old Kentucky Shark on Apr 25, 2011 6:56 AM PDT up reply actions
I, for one, completely agree with starting Nemo
It doesn’t even really matter who you put the blame on for the Sharks goals. Was it Niemi playing poorly? Was it the defense breaking down completely? Was it the forwards making poor decisions? Who cares? Personally, I see it as a complete team failure. Everyone has been responsible in one way or another. From turnovers, to soft goals, to that complete lack of effort in Game 2, you cannot blame one person for this.
It’s not even as if the series is over, either; we have a 3-2 lead and two games to win twice. It was the same way against Colorado last year. If anyone thought the Kings were going to be complete pushovers coming in off a 46-30-6 season that saw them finish with a +21 goal differential, then you’re ignorant. Only four teams finished with fewer GA than the Kings, they are a strong team defensively.
You absolutely cannot bench Nemo. Benching Nemo now would show a complete lack of confidence in him. That is not a message you want to send to him or the team. Say you start Niitty and defensive collapses and bad turnovers lead to another 3-0 deficit… do you then put in Nemo, who you’ve essentially given a vote of No Confidence to by benching? That lack of confidence is going to spread to the players, who won’t play as aggressively as they should to get the goals to make a come back. This is the sort of thing we saw back in November when the players looked shaky in front of one goalie versus the other. The last thing you want to do at this point is bench Nemo. Don’t even plant the seeds of doubt in the team’s mind. “This is our guy. He may have had a few poor outings, but we still trust him and his abilities, and we want you to as well.”
Whine all you want, but that’s just how it is and how it has to be.
by Old Kentucky Shark on Apr 24, 2011 10:35 PM PDT reply actions
How is holding someone accountable for their mistakes a lack of confidence?
So when Eager plays like crap it’s cool to bench him for McGinn, but Niemi stinks up the joint 2 nights at home, can’t keep them from scoring three goals (which seems to be the Todd mantra) and gets to keep his starting position?
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 10:50 PM PDT up reply actions
It’s arguable that the goalie is more important than a fourth line winger, just saying
by kiwi93 on Apr 24, 2011 11:00 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
When you are talking about a coach that says everyone needs to show up for work and that everyone is accountable then i think he has to put-up or shut-up.
by Montyburnz!...1 on Apr 24, 2011 11:26 PM PDT up reply actions
I think you're assuming you know way more about the locker room and plane ride banter than anyone gas (except those present)
TMC is no pushover, and neither are the C or A’s. I guarantee words flew.
And, FTR, Niemi is his own biggest critic, something rare and valuable for one in his position. NITTY is in no way shape or form a slouch, what OKS said above is truth. Don’t mess with your starters head. Let them process and fix it. Worked for Nabby in game 4 vs. the Redwings, and it will work for Nemo too.
D just needs to play like the net is empty, regardless of who is in it. Quick was hot, and their D played strong; we should learn from their strengths as well as our weaknesses. Friends close/enemies closer, no?
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
Bleeding teal since 1997
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
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by Noctro on Apr 24, 2011 11:45 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Gas->does
Today is National “guess what Noctro meant to type in his iPhone” Day
"Never start a fight, but ALWAYS finish it."
Bleeding teal since 1997
@TheFourthPeriod How intense with the #Bruins #Habs PO series be? || @Noctro Like K-Y Jelly lit on fire. || @TheFourthPeriod Wow. Best. Answer. Ever.
Welcome to Fear the Fin...where we eat our own.
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by Noctro on Apr 24, 2011 11:47 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Lack of confidence?
Not really. Starting Nitty would be an attempt at doing what it takes to win and close out the series.
Reg season:
Sharks 6-3 L.A. Nitty (W)
L.A. 4-0 Sharks Niemi (L)
Sharks 1-0 Niemi (W)
L.A. 3-2 Sharks Niemi (L)
L.A. 4-3 Sharks Niemi (L)
Sharks 6-1 L.A. Niemi (W)
Playoffs:
Sharks 3-2 L.A. Niemi (W)
L.A. 4-0 Sharks Niemi (L)
Sharks 6-5 L.A. Niemi 0-4 (ND) Nitty 6-1 (W)
Sharks 6-3 L.A. Niemi (W)
L.A. 3-1 Sharks Niemi 0-3 (L) Nitty 1-0 (ND)
Totals vs. L.A. (based on Appearances)
Nitty GF 13 – GA 4 , 2 Wins, 0 Losses, 1 No Decision, AVG GF 4.33 – GA 1.33
Niemi GF 21 – GA 26, 4 Wins, 5 Losses, 1 No Decision, AVG GF 2.10 – GA 2.60
How do they not start Nitty against L.A.?
I had this same question about the Sharks decision to keep starting Nabby vs Ana two years ago, when Boucher had just beaten Ana. at the end of the regular season.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
by Soloact on Apr 25, 2011 12:29 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
fair, but
i think this is more of a question of who gives us the best chance to win. I think Nitty would be great, but it seems to me as though Niemi has made a point of putting bad games behind him to play a great game next night. Plus, if this does not work, expect to see Nitty get the shot in game 7. I think the fact that we have to win 1 of the next 2 also helps aid this decision.
Not a good way to think about it
If we want to make a deep run, we need to finish this series up stat. Perhaps if Chicago upsets and we can take them out in 4-5, we can make up the rest lost in a potential game 7, but the playoffs are tiring and teams need rest.
We need to win this game.
That said, Soloact, there’s 2 problems with your data: you’re creditting Nemo with shootout losses, which really should just be no decisions, and the sample size on Niitty’s play is too small to be at all relevant.
Crediting someone with a shootout loss or shootout win is legit, as, during the skills competition, the losing goalie lets in more goals than the winning goalie. The single goal credited to the score of the winning team doesn’t tell how many shootout goals were actually scored.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
but
in the playoffs, there are no shootouts so they are now irrelevant. So all shootout wins and losses should be treated the same way, namely as a no decision.
There are only two games affected by the shootout
both were losses, and both by Niemi. If the stats were adjusted for Nemo, they’d look as follows:
Niemi GF 21 – GA 26 (24 in OT-Reg), 4 Wins, 5 Losses (3 in OT-Reg), 1 No Decision, AVG GF 2.10 – GA 2.60 (2.40 if shootouts not counted).
Also, during the Pit-TB game today, they posted the goalie rankings, Nitty was listed as the playoff leader with 0.66 GAA and with 96.7% Saves made (.967).
Nemo is 19th with 4.30 GAA and 20th with 85.5% Saves made (.855).
I maintain my opinion that Nitty should start game 6, even though it isn’t happening.
But that really won’t matter anymore if Nemo gets the win tonight, and takes the Sharks all the way to the Cup.
If you mention ending your life, or show signs of self-harm, I will take you seriously!
"Take a deep breath sometimes, a break, and play some hockey. Hockey is a great way to take a pause from day-to-day hard work." -- Lt Gen. D.H. Huntoon Jr. (paraphrased)
Shameless plug for my music.
The Kings are the worst offensive team in PO
So if the Sharks play a sound defensive game, minimizing mistakes and decent goal tending, they should win.
Passionate!
Some great reads on here. Nice to see so much passion. Niemi is the goalie that got us here, so he gets the start, but if he looks shakey, then Nitty comes in and probably gets game 7 as well and the next round until he sucks in a game or two.
I think the main issue here is our neutral zone play and the high number of turnovers that our team makes in our own zone. LA is not a very good scoring team, but we’re making them look better because of our sloppy play. If we lose this series ( and I don’t see that happening ) then we weren’t good enough to compete with Detroit or Vancouver or Nashville anyway.
I completely trust the high level of hockey acumen from T-Mac and DW. We have the horses to get it done. Our D just need to make better, quicker decisions and if that does happen, we’ll be moving on after tonight. If that doesn’t happen, all bets are off for game 7 and some MAJOR changes will result from yet another year of playoff underachievment. Let’s wait to judge until the game unfolds and the series plays out. The next round may be entirely different and so might our play depending on who we get.
We Need to close it out TONIGHT
If niemi looks like he has Nabby-ITIS
Then I believe it won’t take Todd long to yank him , I hear all the talk bout niemi getting us here, however you do know the other players were also very involved in getting the sharks to the playoffs , its not all on niemi , the d needs to step up yes the d has been pretty shaky with te turnovers but the goalie is the last defense and this no time to be Nabby !!!!!!
Get it Done Sharks!!!!!!!!
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According to numerous sources goaltender Antti Niemi will start game six for the San Jose Sharks tomorrow night in Los Angeles.
Niemi was victimized last night in HP Pavilion, giving up three goals in four shots. The first goal occurred after Niemi forced the puck up the boards after being pressured by the Kings forecheck-- Brad Richardson sent the puck at Rob Scuderi at the opposite point, and with all the time in the world to ready his shot, Scuderi sent a puck that Kyle Clifford got a piece of to deflect it past Niemi. The second goal of the night followed a neutral zone turnover by Dan Boyle, with the ensuing two on one rush causing Niemi to kick out a rebound into the slot that Clifford would bang home.
The third goal against, born of a defensive zone turnover by Niclas Wallin, saw Dustin Penner wire a wrist shot past Niemi glove side. It was one that Niemi would have liked to have back considering he had a clear look at the shot.
After three goals on four shots, Niemi was pulled. It was the second time he has been pulled this series, the first being a brutal game three that saw San Jose trail 4-0 before making a comeback for the ages to win 6-5 in overtime. These outings lead to speculation that Sharks Head Coach Todd McLellan would turn to backup Antero Niittymaki in a pivotal game six.
That speculation was put to rest this afternoon, and McLellan hinted at it last night, putting the blame squarely on the shoulders of his defenseman and their turnovers.
"If you look at the three goals, maybe we could live with one of them. But the other two, the puck is on our tape, our D have complete control of it, and it's in our net," McLellan said. "We're disappointed about that."
"At that point we needed to change something, and with 18 skaters dressed, we change the goaltender."
With San Jose facing down Los Angeles’ Jonathan Quick, who was absolutely brilliant last night during the course of his 52 save performance, all eyes will be on Niemi as he attempts to rebound from a poor postseason outing once again. If the Sharks are to advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, Niemi is going to have to be the backbone. And he'll be given every conceivable opportunity to take his team there.
The writing for that has been on the wall for months now.