Here is the last of the big names to reveal their Olympic Hockey Tournament Roster, and definitely one of the biggest, Team Canada.
Goalies:
Martin Brodeur (Devils), Marc-André Fleury (Penguins), Roberto Luongo (Canucks)
This is probably the best collection of goalies in the tournament. Russia has some darn good ones, but how can you get much better than this collection of 3? 55 total wins this season between the 3. Combined average of 2.30 GA. Averaged save percentage of .916. Total of 5 shutouts between the 3. By number, the Russians have better GAA, and more shutouts, but the Canadian goalies have more total wins than the Russians, and the wins are the things that matter the most. All 3 of these guys are more than stout in the crease, are able to play the puck, and move it a lot like a third defensemen. They are also not reckless with the puck. They don't make stupid decisions, so that is a good thing! I figure the 2 that will see that most time will be Brodeur and Fleury. Luongo has had some injury problems this year, and Fleury is coming off a Stanley Cup Championship and is just overflowing with confidence. You really can't go wrong with any of these 3 goalies.
Defense:
Dan Boyle (Sharks), Drew Doughty (Kings), Duncan Keith (Blackhawks), Scott Niedermayer (Ducks), Chris Pronger (Flyers), Brent Seabrook (Blackhawks), Shea Weber (Predators).
A very solid set of defensemen here. There are a couple of names I'm not totally familiar with, Doughty and Keith, but the rest are all selections that I recognize. Dan Boyle is a good one to have on the power play and 5 on 5. He moves the puck and leads a great break-in. Pronger and Nidermayer both have great experience and are so smart at both ends of the ice. Pronger is also a punishing presence down low and right in front of the net. So far, so good for the selections with Canada!
Forwards:
Patrice Bergeron (Bruins), Sidney Crosby (Penguins), Ryan Getzlaf (Ducks), Dany Heatley (Sharks), Jarome Iginla (Flames), Patrick Marleau (Sharks), Brenden Morrow (Stars), Rick Nash (Blue Jackets), Corey Perry (Ducks), Mike Richards (Flyers), Eric Staal (Hurricanes), Joe Thornton (Sharks), Jonathan Toews (Blackhawks).
One word to describe this set of forwads. LOADED. This is an amazing collection of forwards. What a combination of players with finesse, skill, power, and size. I imagine you will probably see Geztlaf and Perry remain on a line together. And just imagine the possibility of seeing Sidney Crosby playing on a line with Jarome Iginla. Who can keep up with that? I mean, putting any kind of stats next to these names is basically meaningless because you just have no idea what they are going to do when they get to play together!! Just crazy.
Team grade: A+
If there is another team that is at this level, it is team Russia. I would count on seeing those two teams be seeded 1 and 2 when they get into the quarterfinals, with an epic clash of the titans in the gold medal game. Honestly, there is no reason that we shouldn't see, aside from scheduling that would put them against each other earlier, a gold medal match between Russian and Canada. I cannot wait!
Well, the last team that we will wait for is that of team USA, which we will get during the winter classic in Boston on New Years Day!
I hope that you all had amazing 2009's, and that you all have amazing 2010's!
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Team Czech Republic
Back, after feeding and changing my daughter! We are here to present the Czech Republic's team for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics!
Goalies:
Ondrej Pavelec (Thrashers), Jakub Stepanek (Vitkovice Ostrava), Tomas Vokoun (Panthers)
I am honestly not certain which one to go with when it comes to being the #1 goalie in this one. It will probably be Vokoun, although he has kind of shrunk into mediocrity since joining the Panthers. He is the one who has had, however, the most success with his career. I would expect a split in time between him and Pavelec, who is playing decently for the Thrashers this year. I'd have to say that this is definitely the weak link for the Czech team, which is a really bad place to have your weakness.
Defense:
Miroslav Blatak (KHL), Jan Hejda (Blue Jackets), Tomas Kaberle (Maple Leafs), Filip Kuba (Senators), Pavel Kubina (Thrashers), Zbynek Michalek (Coyotes), Roman Polak (Blues), Marek Zidlicky (Wild)
A pretty solid defensive unit here, led by Pavel Kubina who is among the NHL leaders in scoring among defensemen. He is a great weapon on the power play with a big shot that seems to have eyes. He passes well, also, and makes smart decisions. He is also an awesome +15. Which means that he will not be giving up goals while he is on the ice. Kaberle is another offensive weapon. He has 32 assists on the year for the Maple Leafs. Look for him to help create some offense both 5 on 5 and with the man advantage. As a whole the unit is +6, which isn't bad, but isn't great. Especially when you look at the fact that some of them are either very +, or they are very -. Hopefully, for them, they will be able to balance that out in time for the tournament.
Forwards:
Petr Cajanek (KHL), Roman Cervenka (Slavia Prague), Patrik Elias (Devils), Martin Erat (Predators), Tomas Fleischmann (Capitals), Martin Havlat (Wild), Jaromir Jagr (KHL), David Krejci (Bruins), Milan Michalek (Senators), Tomas Plekanec (Canadiens), Tomas Rolinek (KHL), Josef Vasicek (KHL)
A lot of familiar names on this list, and a lot of names that are in Russia, but have also had a decent amount of playing time in the NHL. Vasicek, Cajanek have both played decent amounts of time in the NHL. Firstly, I have to say that I am somewhat shocked by a name that is not on the list. The Czechs have left out Milan Hejduk, of the Colorado Avalanche, who has played the last 3 Olympics with the Czechs and is having a darn good season with the Avs this year. I think that will hurt them. However, inclusions of sure scorers like Elias, Havlat, and Jagr, should hopefully keep them scoring. Plus, Martin Erat is having an amazing year in Nashville this year, and should be able to chip in with some decent scoring. Milan Michalek is also scoring a good amount for the Senators and will be a good second or third line scoring threat. All in all, a pretty strong team.
Team grade: B/B+. I didn't bump them up to an A simply because of the place where they have their biggest weakness. Their goaltending is the thing that is the biggest question mark for them, and when you're trying to win a gold medal against the best competition in the world for 2 weeks, you're going to have a hard time. I think that this team will make the Quarterfinals, and probably the Semis, depending on their draw, but I don't think that they will win a medal this year, to be honest.
Coming right up next, TEAM CANADA!
Goalies:
Ondrej Pavelec (Thrashers), Jakub Stepanek (Vitkovice Ostrava), Tomas Vokoun (Panthers)
I am honestly not certain which one to go with when it comes to being the #1 goalie in this one. It will probably be Vokoun, although he has kind of shrunk into mediocrity since joining the Panthers. He is the one who has had, however, the most success with his career. I would expect a split in time between him and Pavelec, who is playing decently for the Thrashers this year. I'd have to say that this is definitely the weak link for the Czech team, which is a really bad place to have your weakness.
Defense:
Miroslav Blatak (KHL), Jan Hejda (Blue Jackets), Tomas Kaberle (Maple Leafs), Filip Kuba (Senators), Pavel Kubina (Thrashers), Zbynek Michalek (Coyotes), Roman Polak (Blues), Marek Zidlicky (Wild)
A pretty solid defensive unit here, led by Pavel Kubina who is among the NHL leaders in scoring among defensemen. He is a great weapon on the power play with a big shot that seems to have eyes. He passes well, also, and makes smart decisions. He is also an awesome +15. Which means that he will not be giving up goals while he is on the ice. Kaberle is another offensive weapon. He has 32 assists on the year for the Maple Leafs. Look for him to help create some offense both 5 on 5 and with the man advantage. As a whole the unit is +6, which isn't bad, but isn't great. Especially when you look at the fact that some of them are either very +, or they are very -. Hopefully, for them, they will be able to balance that out in time for the tournament.
Forwards:
Petr Cajanek (KHL), Roman Cervenka (Slavia Prague), Patrik Elias (Devils), Martin Erat (Predators), Tomas Fleischmann (Capitals), Martin Havlat (Wild), Jaromir Jagr (KHL), David Krejci (Bruins), Milan Michalek (Senators), Tomas Plekanec (Canadiens), Tomas Rolinek (KHL), Josef Vasicek (KHL)
A lot of familiar names on this list, and a lot of names that are in Russia, but have also had a decent amount of playing time in the NHL. Vasicek, Cajanek have both played decent amounts of time in the NHL. Firstly, I have to say that I am somewhat shocked by a name that is not on the list. The Czechs have left out Milan Hejduk, of the Colorado Avalanche, who has played the last 3 Olympics with the Czechs and is having a darn good season with the Avs this year. I think that will hurt them. However, inclusions of sure scorers like Elias, Havlat, and Jagr, should hopefully keep them scoring. Plus, Martin Erat is having an amazing year in Nashville this year, and should be able to chip in with some decent scoring. Milan Michalek is also scoring a good amount for the Senators and will be a good second or third line scoring threat. All in all, a pretty strong team.
Team grade: B/B+. I didn't bump them up to an A simply because of the place where they have their biggest weakness. Their goaltending is the thing that is the biggest question mark for them, and when you're trying to win a gold medal against the best competition in the world for 2 weeks, you're going to have a hard time. I think that this team will make the Quarterfinals, and probably the Semis, depending on their draw, but I don't think that they will win a medal this year, to be honest.
Coming right up next, TEAM CANADA!
Team Finland
Today is a big day for Olympic team roster announcements and there are a lot of things going on where I am currently located, so I'll be tackling these one at a time. First I will take on the defending Olympic Silver Medalists, Finland.
Goalies.
Niklas Bäckström (Wild), Miikka Kiprusoff (Flames), Antero Niittymäki (Lightning). 44 combined wins this season in the NHL for these 3. Averaging a 2.49 GAA. .919 save % between these 3. 4 shut outs between the three of these goalies.
This is definitely one of the best goaltending teams in the tournament. Kiprusoff is always one of the years most amazingly consistent goalies. He's one of the biggest reasons that Calgary is always in it at the end of the season. Backstrom is starting to come into his own, but probably won't be considered THE guy. Niitymaki had a pretty good run while he was with the Flyers, but hasn't been all that noticeable since, but Kipper and Backstrom make a pretty solid 1, 2 punch if you ask pretty much anybody that plays them. Kipper will be the number 1 guy, almost assuredly.
Defense:
Lasse Kukkonen (KHL), Sami Lepistö (Coyotes), Toni Lydman (Sabres), Janne Niskala (SEL), Joni Pitkänen (Hurricanes), Sami Salo (Canucks), Kimmo Timonen (Flyers)
A pretty solid group here. Admittedly, I am not terribly familiar with each of these players. The ones that I know the most are Sami Salo, big and strong. Very tough defensemen with a great shot. And the other one being Kimmo Tomonen who moves very smoothly and has great passing ability. If there's a knock on this group, it is that they aren't very active offensively. The top 2 are Pitkanen and Timonen, points wise. The downside for those 2 is that, even though they have 17 & 20 points respectively, they are also out for a lot of goals. Timonen is only +1, and Pitkanen is a frightening -13. Salo leads the group in +/- with a +8. On the other side of it, I suppose it's pretty alright to have defensemen that stress defense.
Forwards:
Valtteri Filppula (Red Wings), Niklas Hagman (Maple Leafs), Jarkko Immonen (KHL), Olli Jokinen (Flames), Niko Kapanen (KHL), Mikko Koivu (Wild), Saku Koivu (Ducks), Jere Lehtinen (Stars), Antti Miettinen (Wild), Ville Peltonen (KHL), Jarkko Ruutu (Senators), Tuomo Ruutu (Hurricanes), Teemu Selanne (Ducks).
This group has a lot of well rounded players. Great scoring from people like Selanne, Saku Koivu, Olli Jokinen. Good discipline from Filppula, Mikko Koivu, Lehtinen. And a few agitators, like the Ruutu's. This team is fast, skilled, and will make you take penalties that you shouldn't. There are 14 players that are returning from 2006, hoping to take the gold this time around.
As skilled as many of these players are, they probably won't be taking the gold, however, you never really know. I can definitely see Finland taking Sweden for a good run, and possibly even beating them. The question is, can they stay with team Canada and team Russia? Kipper is a fantastic goalie, and he will need to be amazing in order to do that, and he is capable of being that amazing. But you can't really rely fully on the goalie to win the tournament for you. At some point you need to definitely score. Finland is good, but I think that they lack the game changing potential of offensive defensemen. They will go far, but we may see a rematch of the gold medal game, in the bronze medal round. Hard to tell.
Team grade: B+/A-. There is a lot working for this team, but I don't think enough to quite put them back into the gold medal round.
I will be back in a few hours to touch on the Czech Republic and Team Canada! Let me know your thoughts on Team Finland in the meantime!
Goalies.
Niklas Bäckström (Wild), Miikka Kiprusoff (Flames), Antero Niittymäki (Lightning). 44 combined wins this season in the NHL for these 3. Averaging a 2.49 GAA. .919 save % between these 3. 4 shut outs between the three of these goalies.
This is definitely one of the best goaltending teams in the tournament. Kiprusoff is always one of the years most amazingly consistent goalies. He's one of the biggest reasons that Calgary is always in it at the end of the season. Backstrom is starting to come into his own, but probably won't be considered THE guy. Niitymaki had a pretty good run while he was with the Flyers, but hasn't been all that noticeable since, but Kipper and Backstrom make a pretty solid 1, 2 punch if you ask pretty much anybody that plays them. Kipper will be the number 1 guy, almost assuredly.
Defense:
Lasse Kukkonen (KHL), Sami Lepistö (Coyotes), Toni Lydman (Sabres), Janne Niskala (SEL), Joni Pitkänen (Hurricanes), Sami Salo (Canucks), Kimmo Timonen (Flyers)
A pretty solid group here. Admittedly, I am not terribly familiar with each of these players. The ones that I know the most are Sami Salo, big and strong. Very tough defensemen with a great shot. And the other one being Kimmo Tomonen who moves very smoothly and has great passing ability. If there's a knock on this group, it is that they aren't very active offensively. The top 2 are Pitkanen and Timonen, points wise. The downside for those 2 is that, even though they have 17 & 20 points respectively, they are also out for a lot of goals. Timonen is only +1, and Pitkanen is a frightening -13. Salo leads the group in +/- with a +8. On the other side of it, I suppose it's pretty alright to have defensemen that stress defense.
Forwards:
Valtteri Filppula (Red Wings), Niklas Hagman (Maple Leafs), Jarkko Immonen (KHL), Olli Jokinen (Flames), Niko Kapanen (KHL), Mikko Koivu (Wild), Saku Koivu (Ducks), Jere Lehtinen (Stars), Antti Miettinen (Wild), Ville Peltonen (KHL), Jarkko Ruutu (Senators), Tuomo Ruutu (Hurricanes), Teemu Selanne (Ducks).
This group has a lot of well rounded players. Great scoring from people like Selanne, Saku Koivu, Olli Jokinen. Good discipline from Filppula, Mikko Koivu, Lehtinen. And a few agitators, like the Ruutu's. This team is fast, skilled, and will make you take penalties that you shouldn't. There are 14 players that are returning from 2006, hoping to take the gold this time around.
As skilled as many of these players are, they probably won't be taking the gold, however, you never really know. I can definitely see Finland taking Sweden for a good run, and possibly even beating them. The question is, can they stay with team Canada and team Russia? Kipper is a fantastic goalie, and he will need to be amazing in order to do that, and he is capable of being that amazing. But you can't really rely fully on the goalie to win the tournament for you. At some point you need to definitely score. Finland is good, but I think that they lack the game changing potential of offensive defensemen. They will go far, but we may see a rematch of the gold medal game, in the bronze medal round. Hard to tell.
Team grade: B+/A-. There is a lot working for this team, but I don't think enough to quite put them back into the gold medal round.
I will be back in a few hours to touch on the Czech Republic and Team Canada! Let me know your thoughts on Team Finland in the meantime!
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Team Slovakia
Today we saw 3 teams post their Olympic Hockey Rosters: Norway, Latvia, and Slovakia. I will address Norway and Latvia in a later post, and I'm going to talk about Slovakia this time around.
Slovakia is a team that I don't think really turns a lot of people's heads at first glance. But if you take a really good look at this team, there could be a lot of possibilities from this squad. If you're looking for your Olympic dark-horse, I don't think that you need to look any farther than Slovakia.
In goal we have:
Peter Budaj (Avalanche), Jaroslov Halak (Canadiens), Rastislav Stana (Russian league). 23 wins combined. Avg. GA is 2.51. Avg. Save % is .916. And their shut out total is 2. As I said, nothing flashy. I would wager that we will see a pretty even split between Halak and Budaj. Budaj has been the back-up for Colorado this year as he was never able to solidfy himself as the definite starter. For all his inconsistency, however, he shows flashes of utter brilliance! His last game against Dallas was enough to show that as he stopped 39 shots, and allowed only 1 goal against the Stars. And he does better, or has done better, when he shares the load and is not the main guy. Enter Halak, who has had a very impressive year in his role with Montreal this year. Thought to be mostly the backup, he has played quite well in his 16 games. Stana is having a pretty mediocre year in the KHL thus far. He is the only of the 3 current goalies to have a save percentage less than .900. I would not plan on seeing too much action from him, unless the other 2 guys are clearly not getting it done.
Defense:
Zdeno Chara (Bruins), Milan Jurcina (Capitals), Richard Lintner (KHL), Andrej Meszaros (Lightning), Andrej Sekera (Sabres), Martin Strbak (KHL), Lubomir Visnovsky (Oilers).
A stout and sturdy group. This group will be very clearly led by the 6'9 Zdeno Chara who is one of the top defensemen in the NHL. Size, impressive speed and movement for a big man, great in his own end, and what a huge shot to set up the power play! This guy could be serious, serious trouble on the play and 5 on 5. A good mix on defense. Meszaros is another player who is a good defenseman that also likes to be involved offensively. A knock on this group is that they are a combined -9, meaning they are on the ice for a lot of goals. So if they don't manage to fix that up at all, then they could be missing out on the medal rounds.
Forwards:
Lubos Bartecko (Suisse Elite League), Martin Cibak (KHL), Pavol Demitra (Canucks), Marian Gaborik (Rangers), Michal Handzus (Kings), Marcel Hossa (KHL), Marian Hossa (Blackhawks), Tomas Kopecky (Blackhawks), Zigmund Palffy (Slovak elite league), Branko Radivojevic (KHL), Miroslav Satan (Free Agent), Jozef Stümpel (KHL), Richard Zednik (KHL).
There are a lot of names here from the KHL or other elite leagues. However, many of those names (Ziggy Palffy, Radivojevic, Stumpel, Zednik, Marcel Hossa) have all played in the NHL and chose to go back to the other side of the pond. This team has a lot of offensive power. Both Hossa's, Gaborik (current NHL goal scoring leader). Pavol Demitra is a great set-up and defensive center. They are very deceptive in their ability. This time around they are missing Peter Bondra, who was one of the great Slovak hockey players of all time, and they have left off Marek Svatos. Svatos is currently having a less than average year with the Avs, and has been injury plagued as of late. So, as talented as he is, I can understand why he got the snub in this particular case. This team got 5th in the 2006 Olympic games, and I think they can very easily get at least that again. They may even surprise a team or 2, depending on who they draw once they reach the quarterfinals and such.
Overall team grade: B+, maybe a B. They are very deceptive, but may also underachieve. A lot will depend on how their goalies and defense play. If they play to their potential, you could even see a bronze for the Slovaks.
Let me know what your thoughts are!
Slovakia is a team that I don't think really turns a lot of people's heads at first glance. But if you take a really good look at this team, there could be a lot of possibilities from this squad. If you're looking for your Olympic dark-horse, I don't think that you need to look any farther than Slovakia.
In goal we have:
Peter Budaj (Avalanche), Jaroslov Halak (Canadiens), Rastislav Stana (Russian league). 23 wins combined. Avg. GA is 2.51. Avg. Save % is .916. And their shut out total is 2. As I said, nothing flashy. I would wager that we will see a pretty even split between Halak and Budaj. Budaj has been the back-up for Colorado this year as he was never able to solidfy himself as the definite starter. For all his inconsistency, however, he shows flashes of utter brilliance! His last game against Dallas was enough to show that as he stopped 39 shots, and allowed only 1 goal against the Stars. And he does better, or has done better, when he shares the load and is not the main guy. Enter Halak, who has had a very impressive year in his role with Montreal this year. Thought to be mostly the backup, he has played quite well in his 16 games. Stana is having a pretty mediocre year in the KHL thus far. He is the only of the 3 current goalies to have a save percentage less than .900. I would not plan on seeing too much action from him, unless the other 2 guys are clearly not getting it done.
Defense:
Zdeno Chara (Bruins), Milan Jurcina (Capitals), Richard Lintner (KHL), Andrej Meszaros (Lightning), Andrej Sekera (Sabres), Martin Strbak (KHL), Lubomir Visnovsky (Oilers).
A stout and sturdy group. This group will be very clearly led by the 6'9 Zdeno Chara who is one of the top defensemen in the NHL. Size, impressive speed and movement for a big man, great in his own end, and what a huge shot to set up the power play! This guy could be serious, serious trouble on the play and 5 on 5. A good mix on defense. Meszaros is another player who is a good defenseman that also likes to be involved offensively. A knock on this group is that they are a combined -9, meaning they are on the ice for a lot of goals. So if they don't manage to fix that up at all, then they could be missing out on the medal rounds.
Forwards:
Lubos Bartecko (Suisse Elite League), Martin Cibak (KHL), Pavol Demitra (Canucks), Marian Gaborik (Rangers), Michal Handzus (Kings), Marcel Hossa (KHL), Marian Hossa (Blackhawks), Tomas Kopecky (Blackhawks), Zigmund Palffy (Slovak elite league), Branko Radivojevic (KHL), Miroslav Satan (Free Agent), Jozef Stümpel (KHL), Richard Zednik (KHL).
There are a lot of names here from the KHL or other elite leagues. However, many of those names (Ziggy Palffy, Radivojevic, Stumpel, Zednik, Marcel Hossa) have all played in the NHL and chose to go back to the other side of the pond. This team has a lot of offensive power. Both Hossa's, Gaborik (current NHL goal scoring leader). Pavol Demitra is a great set-up and defensive center. They are very deceptive in their ability. This time around they are missing Peter Bondra, who was one of the great Slovak hockey players of all time, and they have left off Marek Svatos. Svatos is currently having a less than average year with the Avs, and has been injury plagued as of late. So, as talented as he is, I can understand why he got the snub in this particular case. This team got 5th in the 2006 Olympic games, and I think they can very easily get at least that again. They may even surprise a team or 2, depending on who they draw once they reach the quarterfinals and such.
Overall team grade: B+, maybe a B. They are very deceptive, but may also underachieve. A lot will depend on how their goalies and defense play. If they play to their potential, you could even see a bronze for the Slovaks.
Let me know what your thoughts are!
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Team Sweden
First of all, allow me to apologize for making an error in my last post. Technically, Belarus was the first country to unveil their Olympic roster for the hockey competition, not Russia. I have not done anything for them because I did not know they had announced. I will do another section, later, on the teams that are still in the tournament that are not expected to do much. Doesn't mean they won't, but I will make mention of them later.
At any rate, today we got a look at Team Sweden, who are the defending gold medalists from the 2006 games in Torino. Quite a good team.
Jonas Gustavsson (Toronto), Stefan Liv (HV71 Swedish Elite League), Henrik Lundqvist (NY Rangers). They have a total of 23 wins this season, between all 3 and Liv apparently hasn't really played for his swedish team this year, most of the wins coming from Lundqvist. GAA of 2.64 between Gustavsson and Lundqvist. Save percentage of .913 and 2 shutouts. The starter will be Lundqvist, I think that is safe to say. Gustavsson was quite sought after as an undrafted free agent this year, but Lundqvist is a proven starter in the NHL, and can definitely handle the pressure of major international competition. He will probably play the majority of the games for Sweden.
On defense, Sweden is very solid. This group will not break easily:
Tobias Enstrom (Thrashers), Magnus Johansson (Swedish Elite League), Niklas Kronwall (Red Wings), Nicklas Lidstrom (Red Wings), Douglas Murray (Sharks), Johnny Oduya (Devils), Mattias Ohlund (Lightning), Henrik Tallinder (Sabres).
This group is led by 6 time Norris Trophy winner (the NHL award for the league's best defenseman) who just always makes the right decisions. He jumps in when he should, and falls back when he should. You will almost never find him out of position, and he is a valuable asset for his team. He kills penalties, is more than solid 5 on 5, and quarterbacks the power plays with smart passing, and accurate shooting. He is getting up there in age, but that doesn't stop him from being one of the NHL and world's best D-men every year. Ohlund is another weapon. As an Avalanche fan, I am familiar with him from his time with the Vancouver Canucks. He is big and tough, and is a force on the power play because he has a HUGE shot. I would plan to see him and Lidstrom on the first PP line. This group, as a whole, doesn't make mistakes often. They are a combined +25, with only 2 players that are currently minus for the season. They just make smart plays and keep the puck out of their net.
Now on to the forwards:
Daniel Alfredsson (Ottawa), Nicklas Backstrom (Capitals), Loui Eriksson (Stars), Peter Forsberg (Modo - SEL), Tomas Holmstrom (Red Wings), Patric Hornqvist (Predators), Fredrik Modin (Blue Jackets), Samuel Pahlsson (Blue Jackets), Daniel Sedin (Canucks), Henrik Sedin (Canucks), Mattias Weinhandl (KHL - Dynamo Moscow), Henrik Zetterberg (Red Wings)
The name that jumps out the most, to me anyways, is Peter Forsberg. He has a severe history of injury, but is actually playing decently for Modo this year with 8 goals and 7 assists in 9 games. As injured as he has been in the past, he was absolutely crucial to the success of the 2006 gold medal team, and will probably still be crucial to the success of this Olympic team.
Again, there is a lot of talent up front. The Sedin twins will obviously play on a line together, probably with Zetterberg or Forsberg. 3 big, strong players with unbelievable hands. They can power through you, or dance around you. Could be really tough to beat these guys. As talented as they are, however, they are also suffering a lot of injuries at the moment. Forsberg, Alfredsson, Zetterberg, Kronwall, all currently injured. There is a lot of time between now and the Olympics, but it can have an effect on the team.
As good as this team is, there are a few names that aren't around this time that were around in 2006 that may have an even larger effect on the team's success this time around. There is no Mats Sundin. There is no Markus Naslund. Missing those 2 guys could keep them down. I do see the Swedes getting into the medal round, even possibly as far as the Gold Medal round, but I'm not certain they stand a chance against a team like Russia.
Team grade: B+
Again, they should be able to make it to the Quarterfinals round with ease, but I am going to doubt that we'll see a repeat of the Swedish Gold Medal this time around. Let me know what you think! We'll be back on the 29th with brief mentions of Latvia, Norway, and Slovakia. The 30th will be a big day, when Canada, Finland, and the Czech Republic will all announce their teams.
At any rate, today we got a look at Team Sweden, who are the defending gold medalists from the 2006 games in Torino. Quite a good team.
Jonas Gustavsson (Toronto), Stefan Liv (HV71 Swedish Elite League), Henrik Lundqvist (NY Rangers). They have a total of 23 wins this season, between all 3 and Liv apparently hasn't really played for his swedish team this year, most of the wins coming from Lundqvist. GAA of 2.64 between Gustavsson and Lundqvist. Save percentage of .913 and 2 shutouts. The starter will be Lundqvist, I think that is safe to say. Gustavsson was quite sought after as an undrafted free agent this year, but Lundqvist is a proven starter in the NHL, and can definitely handle the pressure of major international competition. He will probably play the majority of the games for Sweden.
On defense, Sweden is very solid. This group will not break easily:
Tobias Enstrom (Thrashers), Magnus Johansson (Swedish Elite League), Niklas Kronwall (Red Wings), Nicklas Lidstrom (Red Wings), Douglas Murray (Sharks), Johnny Oduya (Devils), Mattias Ohlund (Lightning), Henrik Tallinder (Sabres).
This group is led by 6 time Norris Trophy winner (the NHL award for the league's best defenseman) who just always makes the right decisions. He jumps in when he should, and falls back when he should. You will almost never find him out of position, and he is a valuable asset for his team. He kills penalties, is more than solid 5 on 5, and quarterbacks the power plays with smart passing, and accurate shooting. He is getting up there in age, but that doesn't stop him from being one of the NHL and world's best D-men every year. Ohlund is another weapon. As an Avalanche fan, I am familiar with him from his time with the Vancouver Canucks. He is big and tough, and is a force on the power play because he has a HUGE shot. I would plan to see him and Lidstrom on the first PP line. This group, as a whole, doesn't make mistakes often. They are a combined +25, with only 2 players that are currently minus for the season. They just make smart plays and keep the puck out of their net.
Now on to the forwards:
Daniel Alfredsson (Ottawa), Nicklas Backstrom (Capitals), Loui Eriksson (Stars), Peter Forsberg (Modo - SEL), Tomas Holmstrom (Red Wings), Patric Hornqvist (Predators), Fredrik Modin (Blue Jackets), Samuel Pahlsson (Blue Jackets), Daniel Sedin (Canucks), Henrik Sedin (Canucks), Mattias Weinhandl (KHL - Dynamo Moscow), Henrik Zetterberg (Red Wings)
The name that jumps out the most, to me anyways, is Peter Forsberg. He has a severe history of injury, but is actually playing decently for Modo this year with 8 goals and 7 assists in 9 games. As injured as he has been in the past, he was absolutely crucial to the success of the 2006 gold medal team, and will probably still be crucial to the success of this Olympic team.
Again, there is a lot of talent up front. The Sedin twins will obviously play on a line together, probably with Zetterberg or Forsberg. 3 big, strong players with unbelievable hands. They can power through you, or dance around you. Could be really tough to beat these guys. As talented as they are, however, they are also suffering a lot of injuries at the moment. Forsberg, Alfredsson, Zetterberg, Kronwall, all currently injured. There is a lot of time between now and the Olympics, but it can have an effect on the team.
As good as this team is, there are a few names that aren't around this time that were around in 2006 that may have an even larger effect on the team's success this time around. There is no Mats Sundin. There is no Markus Naslund. Missing those 2 guys could keep them down. I do see the Swedes getting into the medal round, even possibly as far as the Gold Medal round, but I'm not certain they stand a chance against a team like Russia.
Team grade: B+
Again, they should be able to make it to the Quarterfinals round with ease, but I am going to doubt that we'll see a repeat of the Swedish Gold Medal this time around. Let me know what you think! We'll be back on the 29th with brief mentions of Latvia, Norway, and Slovakia. The 30th will be a big day, when Canada, Finland, and the Czech Republic will all announce their teams.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Our First Olympic Roster
Well, in this season of giving, we were presented with a gift that many in the country of Russia are ecstatic to receive. We were given the roster for the 2010 Russian Olympic Hockey team. And wow, what a group of players it is.
In goal there is Evegeni Nabokov, Ilya Bryzgalov, and Semyon Varlamov. These goalies have a combined total of 52 wins thus far this season. Their average GAA is 2.19, with an average save percentage of .925. They also have a grand total of 9 shut-outs between the 3 of them. Now, the Olympic tournament is one where you probably won't have time to have 3 goalies play, so who is the starter? Well, we can probably safely rule out Varlamov for a few reasons. Firstly, he's been on IR for the Caps for a most of this month and, talented though he is, he is a rookie in the NHL this year and gives up a lot of experience, especially Olympic experience, to the other 2 goalies. My money would be on Nabokov to be the #1, but not by much. In fact, I think that it is quite possible that you may see a pretty decent split in time between Nabokov and Bryzgalov. While Nabokov has more experience in the olympics, Bryzgalov has had, in my opinion, the more impressive year. 21 wins, and 5 shutouts the Coyotes who have impressed thus far while their management has been a huge question and source of contraversy thus far in the year. At any rate, whomever starts for this team will provide quite a test for any and all opposition.
On Defense:
Sergei Gonchar (Penguins), Fedor Tyutin (Columbus), Dmitry Kalinin (from the Russian KHL league), Denis Grebeshkov (Edmonton), Anton Volchenkov (Ottowa), Andrei Markov (Montreal), Konstantin Korenyev (KHL), Ilya Nikulin (KHL).
Many of these players we know, and many of them we probably are hearing for the first time since we, in North America, don't have a lot of access to the KHL. That being said, people following hockey in the last few years are aware that the European Elite Leagues have begun to compete financially, especially the KHL, with the NHL and have taken some of the biggest names in the sport across the pond. So simply because they are not players in the NHL is no reason to assume they won't provide heavy, HEAVY challenges. The Russian definitely have a solid defense, anchored by Sergei Gonchar, the immensely talented Penguin blueliner who loves to chip in offensively, and is the quarterback for the powerplay.
Things only get better for the Russians as we move up to the forwards. Here is what will no doubt be an incredibly deadly set of forwards for the Russian Offense.
Alexander Ovechkin (Capitals), Ilya Kovalchuk (Thrashers), Evgeni Malkin (Penguins), Maxim Afinigenov (Thrashers), Alex Semin (Capitals), Pavel Datsyuk (Red Wings), Alexei Morozov (KHL), Viktor Kozlov (KHL), Alexander Radulov (KHL), Danis Zarapov (KHL), Sergei Zinoviev (KHL), Sergei Fedorov (KHL).
Now, if you ask me, the Russians have done an amazing job with these picks. Not just because each of these players are immensely talented, which you know they are. But the thing that most people probably overlook about these picks is the fact that these 12 forwards come from a total of 8 teams. Might seem like a lot, especially since many of them are spread through the KHL, but look at this. Fedorov played with Semin and Ovechkin in Washington. Kozlov played with Afinigenov and Kovalchuk in Atlanta. If you look at it that way, it's essentailly 12 forwards from 6 teams. Plus, Ovechkin played on Russian National Junior teams with Malkin. These guys have history with each other and already have a built up chemistry that you need to be able to have with these kind of teams that is sometimes lacking from these kind of all-star national teams.
If you ask me, and I know that they didn't but still, this is what I would make my first line.
Datsyuk centering Ovechkin and Semin. Datsyuk is just so natural at the center position, and Ovi and Semin can work their wings amazingly. Follow that up with Malkin between Kovalchuk and Afinigenov. Same story with that. And just imagine the power play on this team! Datsyuk with Ovechkin and Semin, with Gonchar and Fedorov on the points. It's really almost automatic.
Overall team grade: Well, since I'm not totally familiar with all of the players, seeing as I can't watch the KHL, I can't go all thet way, but I definitely can't give them less than an A. So they get an A.
So, there's a look at the first Olympic squad to be announced. It's always hard to pick a favorite in these tournaments now, since the pros have been allowed to play and almost all the teams are so stacked, but what a start to what we know will be some amazing hockey. I will be back with Canada, USA, Czech, Sweden, Finland, and other rosters for the Olympics. So see ya soon!
In goal there is Evegeni Nabokov, Ilya Bryzgalov, and Semyon Varlamov. These goalies have a combined total of 52 wins thus far this season. Their average GAA is 2.19, with an average save percentage of .925. They also have a grand total of 9 shut-outs between the 3 of them. Now, the Olympic tournament is one where you probably won't have time to have 3 goalies play, so who is the starter? Well, we can probably safely rule out Varlamov for a few reasons. Firstly, he's been on IR for the Caps for a most of this month and, talented though he is, he is a rookie in the NHL this year and gives up a lot of experience, especially Olympic experience, to the other 2 goalies. My money would be on Nabokov to be the #1, but not by much. In fact, I think that it is quite possible that you may see a pretty decent split in time between Nabokov and Bryzgalov. While Nabokov has more experience in the olympics, Bryzgalov has had, in my opinion, the more impressive year. 21 wins, and 5 shutouts the Coyotes who have impressed thus far while their management has been a huge question and source of contraversy thus far in the year. At any rate, whomever starts for this team will provide quite a test for any and all opposition.
On Defense:
Sergei Gonchar (Penguins), Fedor Tyutin (Columbus), Dmitry Kalinin (from the Russian KHL league), Denis Grebeshkov (Edmonton), Anton Volchenkov (Ottowa), Andrei Markov (Montreal), Konstantin Korenyev (KHL), Ilya Nikulin (KHL).
Many of these players we know, and many of them we probably are hearing for the first time since we, in North America, don't have a lot of access to the KHL. That being said, people following hockey in the last few years are aware that the European Elite Leagues have begun to compete financially, especially the KHL, with the NHL and have taken some of the biggest names in the sport across the pond. So simply because they are not players in the NHL is no reason to assume they won't provide heavy, HEAVY challenges. The Russian definitely have a solid defense, anchored by Sergei Gonchar, the immensely talented Penguin blueliner who loves to chip in offensively, and is the quarterback for the powerplay.
Things only get better for the Russians as we move up to the forwards. Here is what will no doubt be an incredibly deadly set of forwards for the Russian Offense.
Alexander Ovechkin (Capitals), Ilya Kovalchuk (Thrashers), Evgeni Malkin (Penguins), Maxim Afinigenov (Thrashers), Alex Semin (Capitals), Pavel Datsyuk (Red Wings), Alexei Morozov (KHL), Viktor Kozlov (KHL), Alexander Radulov (KHL), Danis Zarapov (KHL), Sergei Zinoviev (KHL), Sergei Fedorov (KHL).
Now, if you ask me, the Russians have done an amazing job with these picks. Not just because each of these players are immensely talented, which you know they are. But the thing that most people probably overlook about these picks is the fact that these 12 forwards come from a total of 8 teams. Might seem like a lot, especially since many of them are spread through the KHL, but look at this. Fedorov played with Semin and Ovechkin in Washington. Kozlov played with Afinigenov and Kovalchuk in Atlanta. If you look at it that way, it's essentailly 12 forwards from 6 teams. Plus, Ovechkin played on Russian National Junior teams with Malkin. These guys have history with each other and already have a built up chemistry that you need to be able to have with these kind of teams that is sometimes lacking from these kind of all-star national teams.
If you ask me, and I know that they didn't but still, this is what I would make my first line.
Datsyuk centering Ovechkin and Semin. Datsyuk is just so natural at the center position, and Ovi and Semin can work their wings amazingly. Follow that up with Malkin between Kovalchuk and Afinigenov. Same story with that. And just imagine the power play on this team! Datsyuk with Ovechkin and Semin, with Gonchar and Fedorov on the points. It's really almost automatic.
Overall team grade: Well, since I'm not totally familiar with all of the players, seeing as I can't watch the KHL, I can't go all thet way, but I definitely can't give them less than an A. So they get an A.
So, there's a look at the first Olympic squad to be announced. It's always hard to pick a favorite in these tournaments now, since the pros have been allowed to play and almost all the teams are so stacked, but what a start to what we know will be some amazing hockey. I will be back with Canada, USA, Czech, Sweden, Finland, and other rosters for the Olympics. So see ya soon!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Picks for wk 16
San Diego @ Tennessee: This could be a pretty good game, but since San Diego already has the division, I think they may be resting a few people. Tennessee is much improved, and have played really well down the stretch. I'm not totally sure how this one will play out. I'm going to assume they won't rest a lot of folks, so I will take San Diego in a close game.
Tampa Bay @ New Orleans: The Saints finally got caught not playing as hard as they should, and they lost. They still need a win to lock up the conference, so hopefully they will come to play for the whole game in this one. I'll go with the Saints, simply because Tampa is just so sad.
Buffalo @ Atlanta: A game of get ready for next year. Falcons have been on the down slide, whereas Buffalo has been playing a lot better in the last few weeks. I think that Buffalo will continue to move in the right direction as they prepare for next year and win this game.
Houston @ Miami: Should be a good game, but I think Miami will probably take this one. Gary Kubiak may have seen his last days as head coach of Houston as they have underachieved a lot. But who knows. Miami.
Seattle @ Green Bay: Green Bay will destroy the hawks in this one.
Carolina @ NY Giants: I keep thinking that the Giants are much better than they have been this year, and I just still can't figure why they aren't anywhere near as good. Carolina has played better of late, beating the Vikes. I still have a hard time picking the Panthers in this one, but I'm really not convinced that the Giants are really capable of coming out and dominating the way that they have in the past. I think I'll take that Panthers in this one.
Oakland @ Cleveland: Cleveland has had a couple epic games against some bad teams. The Lions and then the Chiefs. Two really entertaining and high scoring games. The Raiders have shown some moxy of late, and I think that they'll be able to beat this Browns team. Raiders.
Jacksonville @ New England: I bet that there is some serious weather during this one. Nobody plays in the snow as well as the Pats do. I think that they'll beat up the Jags on this one.
Kansas City @ Cincinnati: Cinci has let some teams surprise them this year, but they really can't do that in this one. They should be able to close out the AFC North in this one, I'll take the Bengals.
Baltimore @ Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh hasn't been the same all year, no matter where they've played. That won't change very much this time around either. Baltimore wins and moves up in the playoff hunt.
St. Louis @ Arizona: Rams stink, Cards win.
Detroit @ San Francisco: The niners have been darn respectable this year, and I expect to see a lot more from them in the coming years. Mike Singletary has done a great job with this team. I'll take San Fran.
Denver @ Philadelphia: Why can the Broncos never manage to win when it matters? It bugs me like nothing else. Another game that they absolutely have to win, after they managed to choke away a game that they absolutely should have won against the Raiders. The Eagles are playing really well this year, and I just don't see the Broncos holding on to this, or their playoff spot, now that they absolutely have to win. The process repeats itself, and the Broncos will blow another fairly sure playoff spot. Eagles.
NY Jets @ Indianapolis: Colts win, even missing a few starters.
Dallas @ Washington: Cowboys need a win to keep pace, but you never know how Washington will play. This may be upset central, and I will finally give the skins some love. This will be a close game, but the Cowboys will blow it in December, again. Skins.
Minnesota @ Chicago: I will predict about 3 more interceptions from The Diapered Wonder, Jay Cutler, and a big win for the Vikes. Even with Favre throwing a couple of his own. Vikes just have a more complete team.
Tampa Bay @ New Orleans: The Saints finally got caught not playing as hard as they should, and they lost. They still need a win to lock up the conference, so hopefully they will come to play for the whole game in this one. I'll go with the Saints, simply because Tampa is just so sad.
Buffalo @ Atlanta: A game of get ready for next year. Falcons have been on the down slide, whereas Buffalo has been playing a lot better in the last few weeks. I think that Buffalo will continue to move in the right direction as they prepare for next year and win this game.
Houston @ Miami: Should be a good game, but I think Miami will probably take this one. Gary Kubiak may have seen his last days as head coach of Houston as they have underachieved a lot. But who knows. Miami.
Seattle @ Green Bay: Green Bay will destroy the hawks in this one.
Carolina @ NY Giants: I keep thinking that the Giants are much better than they have been this year, and I just still can't figure why they aren't anywhere near as good. Carolina has played better of late, beating the Vikes. I still have a hard time picking the Panthers in this one, but I'm really not convinced that the Giants are really capable of coming out and dominating the way that they have in the past. I think I'll take that Panthers in this one.
Oakland @ Cleveland: Cleveland has had a couple epic games against some bad teams. The Lions and then the Chiefs. Two really entertaining and high scoring games. The Raiders have shown some moxy of late, and I think that they'll be able to beat this Browns team. Raiders.
Jacksonville @ New England: I bet that there is some serious weather during this one. Nobody plays in the snow as well as the Pats do. I think that they'll beat up the Jags on this one.
Kansas City @ Cincinnati: Cinci has let some teams surprise them this year, but they really can't do that in this one. They should be able to close out the AFC North in this one, I'll take the Bengals.
Baltimore @ Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh hasn't been the same all year, no matter where they've played. That won't change very much this time around either. Baltimore wins and moves up in the playoff hunt.
St. Louis @ Arizona: Rams stink, Cards win.
Detroit @ San Francisco: The niners have been darn respectable this year, and I expect to see a lot more from them in the coming years. Mike Singletary has done a great job with this team. I'll take San Fran.
Denver @ Philadelphia: Why can the Broncos never manage to win when it matters? It bugs me like nothing else. Another game that they absolutely have to win, after they managed to choke away a game that they absolutely should have won against the Raiders. The Eagles are playing really well this year, and I just don't see the Broncos holding on to this, or their playoff spot, now that they absolutely have to win. The process repeats itself, and the Broncos will blow another fairly sure playoff spot. Eagles.
NY Jets @ Indianapolis: Colts win, even missing a few starters.
Dallas @ Washington: Cowboys need a win to keep pace, but you never know how Washington will play. This may be upset central, and I will finally give the skins some love. This will be a close game, but the Cowboys will blow it in December, again. Skins.
Minnesota @ Chicago: I will predict about 3 more interceptions from The Diapered Wonder, Jay Cutler, and a big win for the Vikes. Even with Favre throwing a couple of his own. Vikes just have a more complete team.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
The Trade of the Last Year
Now that the NFL regular season is drawing to a close, I want to take a quick look back at the trade that made the most headlines over this past off-season. The one that has forever dubbed Jay Cutler Captain Crybaby, Crybaby Cutler, Captain Pampers, and various other colorful names that the Bronco faithful came up with.
Now that things have been said and done? How is everybody doing? Well, let's look at the numbers.
Jay Cutler: 284 for 457. 62.1 % complete, 3023 yards 19TDs and 22 INTS. QB rating of 75.2
Kyle Orton: 258 for 410. 62.9% complete, 2904 yards 16 TDs and 8 INTs. QB rating of 88.9
The numbers really aren't that terribly different. Completion percentage about the same. Cutler has thrown the ball 47 more times than Orton, and has also completed 26 more passes. Yards not that far apart, and TDs are even pretty close. The big number difference is in the interceptions. A whole 14 more interceptions for Cutler than for Orton. 15, if you remember that the first interception of the year for Orton was a hail mary pass that was thrown at the end of the first half against New England earlier in the season. This brings to light the big thing that most people, myself included, really missed during this whole trade fiasco. Jay Cutler isn't really all that good.
Or at least not quite for what they traded for him. The Broncos got Kyle Orton, a first and third round draft pick in the 09 draft, and another first round pick (which they later traded away) in the '10 draft. 2 first round draft picks. Now, draft picks at that level are players that you quite literally expect to come in and make an impact on your team pretty immediately. What did the Bears get? Jay Cutler and a 5th round draft pick. Then, Jay Cutler was hailed as the savior of the Bears, the missing piece to their puzzle, the best thing since sliced bread and a Blackhawks team that was actually worth watching! Where are they now? 5-9, better than only the lowly Lions. What happened?
Well, as I mentioned, Jay Cutler just isn't what he was advertised. He's not the franchise quarterback that will make your team an instant contender. Sure, he's got a rocket arm, and can make plays with his feet. But the place where he is lacking, and where Orton is quite adept, is the mental part of the game. Orton has been praised all year long for taking care of the ball. 16 TDs isn't spectacular, but 8 INTs compared to 22 is incredibly significant. Cutler makes bad decisions. His interception numbers have gone up every year since he came into the league. From 14, to 18, and now to 22. The worst part about it is that he makes the bad decisions, a lot of the time, in the worst areas on the field. In the red zone, or deep enough in his own zone that points are almost guaranteed. So why haven't we really noticed it until this year's dismal display?
I have a theory. Mike Shannahan. Now, remember that Cutler was Mike Shannahan's baby. He quite literally babied this kid and gave him anything he wanted. Cutler liked a play, they called it all the time. Think about the system, the West Coast Offense. Shannahan perfected this when he was the offensive coordinator for the 49ers when they were winning all those Super Bowls. That offense uses a lot of short passing to keep the chains moving. Add in that the Broncos have always had a pretty strong running game. Now you have a ton of possibilities. The 18 interceptions that Cutler threw last year was monstrous for a Mike Shannhan offense, but isn't really huge to the casual observer. Plus, Cutler threw for 4500 yards last year. People were far more interested in that than the 18 interceptions. Why else didn't we notice this?
Personel! The Broncos offensive line is definitely one of the best in the league. Cutler had time to look, survey, figure out, possibly make a salad, and allow receivers to get open, or for him to realize there is nothing and try to run. This great offensive line let things develop with the receiving core that might not have developed had he been pressured sooner. In addition to the offensive line, the receivers are also immensely talented. Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokely, Tony Sheffler. These guys are all immensely talented people in their positions. One weapon right after another. All of these guys were able to make plays that most players really can't, which would bail Cutler out at times. Combine all of these things with a quarterback like Cutler, who does have a lot of talent, and you get a guy who throws for a ton of yards, a bunch of TDs, and a healthy amount of picks as well. Take those away from him and move him to a team that has always really relied on their defense to win games, and what do you get?
You get Jay Cutler. A lot of raw talent; big arm, great athletic ability to move around. Combine that with the babying that he received at the hands of Mike Shannahan where he now believes any throw he makes is the right one, and you get a guy who throws tons of interceptions because he is just too sure of himself. At this point, I don't really know of anybody who believes that Cutler was worth all of the things that they traded to get him. I don't think most Bear fans would say that they wouldn't be happier with Kyle Orton back. And I am almost positive that you won't find a Bronco fan that would want Cutler back.
Once you look at everything with 2 games left in the season, I think it is clear to say that the Broncos got the better side of the deal, and that Jay Cutler is going to have to do a lot more work if he actually wants to be a real franchise quarterback. I'd start with fixing the attitude.
Now that things have been said and done? How is everybody doing? Well, let's look at the numbers.
Jay Cutler: 284 for 457. 62.1 % complete, 3023 yards 19TDs and 22 INTS. QB rating of 75.2
Kyle Orton: 258 for 410. 62.9% complete, 2904 yards 16 TDs and 8 INTs. QB rating of 88.9
The numbers really aren't that terribly different. Completion percentage about the same. Cutler has thrown the ball 47 more times than Orton, and has also completed 26 more passes. Yards not that far apart, and TDs are even pretty close. The big number difference is in the interceptions. A whole 14 more interceptions for Cutler than for Orton. 15, if you remember that the first interception of the year for Orton was a hail mary pass that was thrown at the end of the first half against New England earlier in the season. This brings to light the big thing that most people, myself included, really missed during this whole trade fiasco. Jay Cutler isn't really all that good.
Or at least not quite for what they traded for him. The Broncos got Kyle Orton, a first and third round draft pick in the 09 draft, and another first round pick (which they later traded away) in the '10 draft. 2 first round draft picks. Now, draft picks at that level are players that you quite literally expect to come in and make an impact on your team pretty immediately. What did the Bears get? Jay Cutler and a 5th round draft pick. Then, Jay Cutler was hailed as the savior of the Bears, the missing piece to their puzzle, the best thing since sliced bread and a Blackhawks team that was actually worth watching! Where are they now? 5-9, better than only the lowly Lions. What happened?
Well, as I mentioned, Jay Cutler just isn't what he was advertised. He's not the franchise quarterback that will make your team an instant contender. Sure, he's got a rocket arm, and can make plays with his feet. But the place where he is lacking, and where Orton is quite adept, is the mental part of the game. Orton has been praised all year long for taking care of the ball. 16 TDs isn't spectacular, but 8 INTs compared to 22 is incredibly significant. Cutler makes bad decisions. His interception numbers have gone up every year since he came into the league. From 14, to 18, and now to 22. The worst part about it is that he makes the bad decisions, a lot of the time, in the worst areas on the field. In the red zone, or deep enough in his own zone that points are almost guaranteed. So why haven't we really noticed it until this year's dismal display?
I have a theory. Mike Shannahan. Now, remember that Cutler was Mike Shannahan's baby. He quite literally babied this kid and gave him anything he wanted. Cutler liked a play, they called it all the time. Think about the system, the West Coast Offense. Shannahan perfected this when he was the offensive coordinator for the 49ers when they were winning all those Super Bowls. That offense uses a lot of short passing to keep the chains moving. Add in that the Broncos have always had a pretty strong running game. Now you have a ton of possibilities. The 18 interceptions that Cutler threw last year was monstrous for a Mike Shannhan offense, but isn't really huge to the casual observer. Plus, Cutler threw for 4500 yards last year. People were far more interested in that than the 18 interceptions. Why else didn't we notice this?
Personel! The Broncos offensive line is definitely one of the best in the league. Cutler had time to look, survey, figure out, possibly make a salad, and allow receivers to get open, or for him to realize there is nothing and try to run. This great offensive line let things develop with the receiving core that might not have developed had he been pressured sooner. In addition to the offensive line, the receivers are also immensely talented. Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Brandon Stokely, Tony Sheffler. These guys are all immensely talented people in their positions. One weapon right after another. All of these guys were able to make plays that most players really can't, which would bail Cutler out at times. Combine all of these things with a quarterback like Cutler, who does have a lot of talent, and you get a guy who throws for a ton of yards, a bunch of TDs, and a healthy amount of picks as well. Take those away from him and move him to a team that has always really relied on their defense to win games, and what do you get?
You get Jay Cutler. A lot of raw talent; big arm, great athletic ability to move around. Combine that with the babying that he received at the hands of Mike Shannahan where he now believes any throw he makes is the right one, and you get a guy who throws tons of interceptions because he is just too sure of himself. At this point, I don't really know of anybody who believes that Cutler was worth all of the things that they traded to get him. I don't think most Bear fans would say that they wouldn't be happier with Kyle Orton back. And I am almost positive that you won't find a Bronco fan that would want Cutler back.
Once you look at everything with 2 games left in the season, I think it is clear to say that the Broncos got the better side of the deal, and that Jay Cutler is going to have to do a lot more work if he actually wants to be a real franchise quarterback. I'd start with fixing the attitude.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
College Bowl Picks.
It's that time of the year again! Where kids get that loved 2 weeks off of school. People make their lists, check it twice, and then shamelessly trample each other for the best prices at Wal-Mart. And we see the college bowl season begin.
Now, I'm noy much of a college football officianado, by my own admission; so, I came up with a couple ways to make my picks for this celebrated time of year. First, there were a few, maybe 3 games that I picked on my own. After that, I allowed my video games to play it out and determine the winners. After I ran out of time to do that, I told my wife the names of the teams playing the games, and she told me which team would win based off of the mascots.
So, you can take this to the bank if you wasnt, but I wouldn't...
New Mexico Bowl
Fresno St. vs Wyoming.
Fresno St.
St. Petersburb Bowl
UCF vs Rutgers
Central Florida
New Orleans Bowl
Southern Miss. vs Mid. Tenn State
Southern Miss
Las Vegas Bowl
Oregon St. vs BYU
The Stormin' Mormans, BYU
Poinsettia Bowl
Utah vs. Cal
Cal
Hawaii Bowl
Nevada vs. Southern Methodist Univ.
Nevada
Little Caesar's Bowl
Ohio vs. Marshall
Marshall
Meinike Bowl
Pitt vs. North Carolina
Pitt. My brother in law goes to school there
Emerald Bowl
Boston College vs. USC
USC
Music City Bowl
Kentucky vs. Clemson
Clemson
Indepenence Bowl
Texas A&M vs. Georgia
Georgia
Eagle Bank Bowl
UCLA vs. Temple
Temple
Champs Sports Bowl
Miami (FL) vs. Wisconsin
Miami
Humanitarian Bowl
Bowling Green vs. Idaho
Idaho
Holiday Bowl
Arizona vs Nebraska
Nebraska
Armed Forces Bowl
Houston vs. Air Force
Houston
Sun Bowl
Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Oklahoma
Texas Bowl
Navy vs. Missouri
Missouri
Insight Bowl
Minnesota vs. Iowa St.
Iowa St.
Chick-fil-a Bowl
Virginia Tech vs. Tennessee
Tennessee
Outback Bowl
Northwestern vs. Auburn
Northwestern
Gator Bowl
West Virginia vs. Florida State
Florida St. send their legendary coach Bowden off into the sunset with a win.
Capital One Bowl
Penn. State vs. LSU
LSU
Rose Bowl
Ohio St. Vs. Oregon
Oregon
Sugar Bowl
Florida vs. Cincinnati
Florida
International Bowl
South Florida vs. Northern Illinois
Northern Illinois
Papa John's.com Bowl
South Carolina vs. Connecticut
South Carolina, my sister goes to school there. :-)
Cotton Bowl
Oklahoma St. vs. Ole Miss
Oklahoma St.
Liberty Bowl
Arkansas vs. East Carolina
Arkansas
Alamo Bowl
Michigan St. vs. Texas Tech
Texas Tech
Fiesta Bowl
Boise St. vs. TCU
Boise St.
Orange Bowl
Iowa vs. Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech
GMAC Bowl
Central Michigan vs. Troy
Troy
BCS Championship
Texas vs. Alabama
This one I chose and I chose for a reason. I'm choosing Alabama. Texas has had a good season, but they struggled with Nebraska. While Nebraska is much better than they have been in the past, they are not something that sure national championship team should have trouble with. Alabama, in the SEC title game, dominated Florida, the team that everybody had pretty much given the whole thing to. Florida is much higher caliber type opponent than Nebraska. How is Texas going to be able to handle a much stronger Alabama team? I don't think that they will. I also kinda think that Alabama is going to win with relative ease. But that's why they play the game.
Hope you enjoyed my seriously scientific picks for the college football bowl season.
Now, I'm noy much of a college football officianado, by my own admission; so, I came up with a couple ways to make my picks for this celebrated time of year. First, there were a few, maybe 3 games that I picked on my own. After that, I allowed my video games to play it out and determine the winners. After I ran out of time to do that, I told my wife the names of the teams playing the games, and she told me which team would win based off of the mascots.
So, you can take this to the bank if you wasnt, but I wouldn't...
New Mexico Bowl
Fresno St. vs Wyoming.
Fresno St.
St. Petersburb Bowl
UCF vs Rutgers
Central Florida
New Orleans Bowl
Southern Miss. vs Mid. Tenn State
Southern Miss
Las Vegas Bowl
Oregon St. vs BYU
The Stormin' Mormans, BYU
Poinsettia Bowl
Utah vs. Cal
Cal
Hawaii Bowl
Nevada vs. Southern Methodist Univ.
Nevada
Little Caesar's Bowl
Ohio vs. Marshall
Marshall
Meinike Bowl
Pitt vs. North Carolina
Pitt. My brother in law goes to school there
Emerald Bowl
Boston College vs. USC
USC
Music City Bowl
Kentucky vs. Clemson
Clemson
Indepenence Bowl
Texas A&M vs. Georgia
Georgia
Eagle Bank Bowl
UCLA vs. Temple
Temple
Champs Sports Bowl
Miami (FL) vs. Wisconsin
Miami
Humanitarian Bowl
Bowling Green vs. Idaho
Idaho
Holiday Bowl
Arizona vs Nebraska
Nebraska
Armed Forces Bowl
Houston vs. Air Force
Houston
Sun Bowl
Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Oklahoma
Texas Bowl
Navy vs. Missouri
Missouri
Insight Bowl
Minnesota vs. Iowa St.
Iowa St.
Chick-fil-a Bowl
Virginia Tech vs. Tennessee
Tennessee
Outback Bowl
Northwestern vs. Auburn
Northwestern
Gator Bowl
West Virginia vs. Florida State
Florida St. send their legendary coach Bowden off into the sunset with a win.
Capital One Bowl
Penn. State vs. LSU
LSU
Rose Bowl
Ohio St. Vs. Oregon
Oregon
Sugar Bowl
Florida vs. Cincinnati
Florida
International Bowl
South Florida vs. Northern Illinois
Northern Illinois
Papa John's.com Bowl
South Carolina vs. Connecticut
South Carolina, my sister goes to school there. :-)
Cotton Bowl
Oklahoma St. vs. Ole Miss
Oklahoma St.
Liberty Bowl
Arkansas vs. East Carolina
Arkansas
Alamo Bowl
Michigan St. vs. Texas Tech
Texas Tech
Fiesta Bowl
Boise St. vs. TCU
Boise St.
Orange Bowl
Iowa vs. Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech
GMAC Bowl
Central Michigan vs. Troy
Troy
BCS Championship
Texas vs. Alabama
This one I chose and I chose for a reason. I'm choosing Alabama. Texas has had a good season, but they struggled with Nebraska. While Nebraska is much better than they have been in the past, they are not something that sure national championship team should have trouble with. Alabama, in the SEC title game, dominated Florida, the team that everybody had pretty much given the whole thing to. Florida is much higher caliber type opponent than Nebraska. How is Texas going to be able to handle a much stronger Alabama team? I don't think that they will. I also kinda think that Alabama is going to win with relative ease. But that's why they play the game.
Hope you enjoyed my seriously scientific picks for the college football bowl season.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
wk 15 picks!
Time for the next installment. I have to say, I hate having to have these in by Thursday night because of the stupid Thursday night game. Doesn't allow me to always get the full picture of things. At any rate, I had a good week last week, here's hoping there is more of the same to come!
Indianapolis @ Jacksonville: That is the game tonight. If I am hearing correctly, then I like the way Caldwell is approaching things. Has home field throughout clinched, so no worries there. But rather than just plain sit everybody and let them get rusty, he is just sitting the people who are hurt and need the rest. Otherwise, let them play and stay sharp. Because of that, I like the Colts, as we will still see Manning in the game.
Dallas @ New Orleans: Saints have said that they are gunning for the perfect record. Dallas could surprise people with this one, because the Saints have had trouble with the teams that they should easily roll over. However, I think that the Saints will be awake for this one, as they have utterly destroyed teams that have solid records. Plus we're in the dome, I can't pick against the Saints until they give me a reason to. Saints.
Cleveland @ Kansas City: Cleveland has some confidence now, and KC is WAY worse than Pittsburgh. Though that does give the possibility for a let down game, I'm still going to go with the Browns on this one, and try and get both of these team's running backs for my fantasy league, since neither defense can stop the run.
Atlanta @ NY Jets: Jets need this in order to get to the playoffs, and Atlanta is falling off pretty badly. It's really hard to pick a winner here, because they are really both in about the same place. I think that, simply since they are at home, I will take the Jets.
Miami @ Tennessee: Miami is on fire, and they need to keep winning to hope to get into the playoffs. I think they will continue their good run with the Titans. Vince Young has been exactly what was needed for this team, but I think the Fins will stay in control of this game from beginning to end. Ricky Williams is playing out of his mind right now!
San Francisco @ Philadelphia: Philly will eat up the niners, and extend their lead in the NFC East.
New England @ Buffalo: I'm loving the trend I got going with the Pats here. Let's hope that it continues. I think Buffalo will be competitive, but I don't think that they are going to beat the Pats here. Will we see more of a Randy Moss melt down? He cries almost as much as Jay Cutler! At any rate, the Pats should win this one, I'll go with them.
Arizona @ Detroit: Detroit stinks, I'll take the Cards.
Chicago @ Baltimore: I'm rotting for Jay Cutler.....(wait for it).....to break the single season interception record!! And look who he's got! The Ravens will be all over his butt, and I see at least 2-3 more picks coming their way, and a big Baltimore win.
Houston @ St. Louis: Houston, easy.
Oakland @ Denver: Denver played very well against Indy, and really could have won that game. I hope that the play calling gets better in this one, not that it should matter too much. I think that Dumervil may get a few more sacks, and the Broncos come closer to getting back into the playoffs as they beat down the Raiders.
Cincinnati @ San Diego: Sad day in Cinci. Just when it was looking like he finally was getting his life turned around, Chris Henry passed away. Thought and prayers to him and his. I think the Bengals will be playing this one for him, and they will take down the Chargers, even though they are playing really well right now.
Green Bay @ Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh is in shambles. Green Bay is pushing for the playoffs. I can't see what happened to Pitt? Why are they so bad this year? It's just tough. If they want to have any hopes of the playoffs they have to win this, but I don't see it happening. Packers.
Tampa Bay @ Seattle: Couple bad teams, again. I'll go against the worse won and take the Seahawks.
Minnesota @ Carolina: Minnesota will totally out class the Panthers in this one. Vikes!
NY Giants @ Washington: Skins have been playing much better of late, but I'm still not going to give them love. Eli will rip them up, and give the G-men a much needed win.
Let me know what your picks are, and tell me what you think of mine!
Stay tuned for this weekend's college bowl game picks. I've come up with a very scientific method for picking these, and I'll let you know what that is when I post! Thanks!
Indianapolis @ Jacksonville: That is the game tonight. If I am hearing correctly, then I like the way Caldwell is approaching things. Has home field throughout clinched, so no worries there. But rather than just plain sit everybody and let them get rusty, he is just sitting the people who are hurt and need the rest. Otherwise, let them play and stay sharp. Because of that, I like the Colts, as we will still see Manning in the game.
Dallas @ New Orleans: Saints have said that they are gunning for the perfect record. Dallas could surprise people with this one, because the Saints have had trouble with the teams that they should easily roll over. However, I think that the Saints will be awake for this one, as they have utterly destroyed teams that have solid records. Plus we're in the dome, I can't pick against the Saints until they give me a reason to. Saints.
Cleveland @ Kansas City: Cleveland has some confidence now, and KC is WAY worse than Pittsburgh. Though that does give the possibility for a let down game, I'm still going to go with the Browns on this one, and try and get both of these team's running backs for my fantasy league, since neither defense can stop the run.
Atlanta @ NY Jets: Jets need this in order to get to the playoffs, and Atlanta is falling off pretty badly. It's really hard to pick a winner here, because they are really both in about the same place. I think that, simply since they are at home, I will take the Jets.
Miami @ Tennessee: Miami is on fire, and they need to keep winning to hope to get into the playoffs. I think they will continue their good run with the Titans. Vince Young has been exactly what was needed for this team, but I think the Fins will stay in control of this game from beginning to end. Ricky Williams is playing out of his mind right now!
San Francisco @ Philadelphia: Philly will eat up the niners, and extend their lead in the NFC East.
New England @ Buffalo: I'm loving the trend I got going with the Pats here. Let's hope that it continues. I think Buffalo will be competitive, but I don't think that they are going to beat the Pats here. Will we see more of a Randy Moss melt down? He cries almost as much as Jay Cutler! At any rate, the Pats should win this one, I'll go with them.
Arizona @ Detroit: Detroit stinks, I'll take the Cards.
Chicago @ Baltimore: I'm rotting for Jay Cutler.....(wait for it).....to break the single season interception record!! And look who he's got! The Ravens will be all over his butt, and I see at least 2-3 more picks coming their way, and a big Baltimore win.
Houston @ St. Louis: Houston, easy.
Oakland @ Denver: Denver played very well against Indy, and really could have won that game. I hope that the play calling gets better in this one, not that it should matter too much. I think that Dumervil may get a few more sacks, and the Broncos come closer to getting back into the playoffs as they beat down the Raiders.
Cincinnati @ San Diego: Sad day in Cinci. Just when it was looking like he finally was getting his life turned around, Chris Henry passed away. Thought and prayers to him and his. I think the Bengals will be playing this one for him, and they will take down the Chargers, even though they are playing really well right now.
Green Bay @ Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh is in shambles. Green Bay is pushing for the playoffs. I can't see what happened to Pitt? Why are they so bad this year? It's just tough. If they want to have any hopes of the playoffs they have to win this, but I don't see it happening. Packers.
Tampa Bay @ Seattle: Couple bad teams, again. I'll go against the worse won and take the Seahawks.
Minnesota @ Carolina: Minnesota will totally out class the Panthers in this one. Vikes!
NY Giants @ Washington: Skins have been playing much better of late, but I'm still not going to give them love. Eli will rip them up, and give the G-men a much needed win.
Let me know what your picks are, and tell me what you think of mine!
Stay tuned for this weekend's college bowl game picks. I've come up with a very scientific method for picking these, and I'll let you know what that is when I post! Thanks!
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