Stanley Cup Finals: Discussion Thread

[The King]

Bruins win 3-1 tonight.

[OpIv37]

Not even gonna watch.

I can't stand to watch another Buffalo division rival/another Boston team win. Someone in Boston sold their soul to the devil for sports victories and I can't wait til it comes back to bite you guys in the ass.

[The King]

Yea you're right it was a mythical soul selling... Has nothing to do with that in order to compete with the other local teams you need to make sure you have a competitor out there.

[SabreEleven]

I'll watch cause I love hockey and I want to see the Bruins lose.

[trapezeus]

bruins owner is a cheap buffalonian. the sports gods will get this right. hail the mighty canucks.

[The King]

The Bruins have spent to the cap ever since Sinden left office.

[trapezeus]

jeremy jacobs is a buffalo guy. you can't escape the buffalo sports curse.

anyone else see that the rise of boston sports coincides with al qaida's rise?

terrorism=boston sports?

[chernobylwraiths]

jeremy jacobs is a buffalo guy. you can't escape the buffalo sports curse.

anyone else see that the rise of boston sports coincides with al qaida's rise?

terrorism=boston sports?

Kevin Adams with the Hurricanes
Patrick Kane with the Blackhawks

[trapezeus]

Kevin Adams with the Hurricanes
Patrick Kane with the Blackhawks

outliers do occur. for the most part, buffalo sports pain will happen much more frequently than Kevin (with a Y) winning a championship happens.

[SabreEleven]

This is a stupid ass schedule..1 game on the weekend...watch game 7 go to double OT on a Wednesday and nobody will be awake to watch it

STANLEY CUP FINAL SCHEDULE

<LI style="BACKGROUND: rgb(228,228,228)">GM 1: @Vancouver, Wed. 6/1, 8 pm, NBC, CBC, RDS<LI style="BACKGROUND: rgb(228,228,228)">GM 2: @Vancouver, Sat. 6/4, 8 pm, NBC, CBC, RDS

<LI style="BACKGROUND: rgb(228,228,228)">GM 3: @Boston, Mon. 6/6, 8 pm, VS, CBC, RDS<LI style="BACKGROUND: rgb(228,228,228)">GM 4: @Boston, Wed. 6/8, 8 pm, VS, CBC, RDS

<LI style="BACKGROUND: rgb(228,228,228)">GM 5*: @Vancouver, Fri. 6/10, 8 pm, NBC, CBC, RDS<LI style="BACKGROUND: rgb(228,228,228)">GM 6*: @Boston, Mon. 6/13, 8 pm, NBC, CBC, RDS

<LI style="BACKGROUND: rgb(228,228,228)">GM 7*: @Vancouver, Wed. 6/15, 8 pm, NBC, CBC, RDS

[trapezeus]

This is a stupid ass schedule

agreed. it gives them 2 days off while they are in vancouver, but then has them flying to boston sunday morning and playing monday. why not play thursday and saturday in vancouver, then give them sunday to travel. monday and tuesday to adjust. then get wednesday and friday as games 3 and 4. Then monday, wednesday and friday. That gets tough on the teams, but it evens out a little mroe since the series has a story line.

i don't get why they front load the rest for games 1 and 2 and not for when the teams travel when they have two teams on the opposite ends of the country.

[YardRat]

agreed. it gives them 2 days off while they are in vancouver, but then has them flying to boston sunday morning and playing monday. why not play thursday and saturday in vancouver, then give them sunday to travel. monday and tuesday to adjust. then get wednesday and friday as games 3 and 4. Then monday, wednesday and friday. That gets tough on the teams, but it evens out a little mroe since the series has a story line.

i don't get why they front load the rest for games 1 and 2 and not for when the teams travel when they have two teams on the opposite ends of the country.

Continent. We haven't taken over Canada. Yet.

[Dr. Lecter]

The Bruins Power Play looks like a bunch of kids getting off the short bus. (No offense S11*)



*June is pick on S11 Month!

[tampabay25690]

Not even gonna watch.

I can't stand to watch another Buffalo division rival/another Boston team win. Someone in Boston sold their soul to the devil for sports victories and I can't wait til it comes back to bite you guys in the ass.

Why not watch as a NHL fan???

[mightysimi]

Whoooo!!! Raffi!!!! What a game!! Although if Thomas plays like that we may be in for a long series.

[G Wolly]

Seeing Boston lose with 18 seconds left was a good way to end the duel. In the first game no less.

I hope the rest of the series is just as close.

[generalmills]

Seeing Boston lose with 18 seconds left was a good way to end the duel. In the first game no less.

I hope the rest of the series is just as close.

Boston needed to find a way to win that one with Thomas standing on his head. If they were able to steal that one, I think it would go 6 maybe 7. I can't see a repeat of his performance on Saturday night on account of it being unrealistic to think he can do that twice in a row against that fire power.

Nuckers find a way to win one in boston. Nuckers in 5.:down:

[mightysimi]

Boston needed to find a way to win that one with Thomas standing on his head. If they were able to steal that one, I think it would go 6 maybe 7. I can't see a repeat of his performance on Saturday night on account of it being unrealistic to think he can do that twice in a row against that fire power.

Nuckers find a way to win one in boston. Nuckers in 5.:down:

Lets hope you're right.

[G Wolly]

Thomas was playing out of his mind. It's a shame he's wearing that uniform, otherwise I'd be a fan.

Always been a fan of Luongo.

[mightysimi]

I have too since I saw him in the World Juniors in 99. That year Canada had no business being anywhere near the finals and he piggy backed them all the way there.

[Michael82]

Let's go Canucks! I can't stand any of the Boston teams.

[chernobylwraiths]

Why not watch as a NHL fan???

I'm a Buffalo Sabres fan, not so much an NHL fan. I watched a few minutes of the game, wasn't anything special.

[TheGhostofJimKelly]

I am usually a fan of watching the NHL, but I didn't watch the game last night and I don't really feel all that different about it. I decided to watch the History Channel's Gettysburg that I DVR'd instead.

[The King]

Boston needed to find a way to win that one with Thomas standing on his head. If they were able to steal that one, I think it would go 6 maybe 7. I can't see a repeat of his performance on Saturday night on account of it being unrealistic to think he can do that twice in a row against that fire power.

Nuckers find a way to win one in boston. Nuckers in 5.:down:He's been doing it all year.

[BlackMetalNinja]

I watched the entire game, and it was one of the most entertaining 0-0 games you'd ever want to see. I had a feeling it was going to end late and avoid OT... mostly because I was pissed that I wouldn't be able to stay up and watch if it did go to overtime. If the whole series goes like this, it'll be fun to watch. Especially if Boston continues to lose. Just sucks I won't be able to watch Games 3 or 4. The only sport that doesn't decide all of it's championship on network TV!

[The King]

How many games do you get for biting?

Also Sedin's dive was ridiculous.

[OpIv37]

Why not watch as a NHL fan???

because just like there is nothing enjoyable about watching Buffalo teams lose, there is nothing enjoyable about watching Boston teams win.

I'm a fan of the Sabres and I like to see them win, so I'm willing to take the chance that I'll watch a loss and not enjoy the game. But since I can't stand Boston and I'm ambivalent on Vancouver, I can't devote 2 1/2 hours to watching something with such a high probability of pissing me off in the end.

If it were two teams that I didn't care about- like Vancouver and Tampa Bay- I'd probably watch at least part of the game just to see some good, intense hockey. But with Boston in there, it's just not worth it.

[BlackMetalNinja]

How many games do you get for biting?

Also Sedin's dive was ridiculous.
The precedent is 2 games...

[The King]

They should sell these at the home games next week.

[mightysimi]

If there is no suspension to Eager for a flat out hit from behind into the boards, there shouldn't be any here. The Burrows tripping call on the goalie was weak also.

[The King]

far too many penalties all together... but biting! come on!

[SkateZilla]

he thought it was that "Vancouver Pizza"

<iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/3nT1BzH33cM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[The King]

no suspension

[SkateZilla]

Bergeron was tired of hearing Burrows' *****ing, So He pulled the Pacifier Move.

[mightysimi]

far too many penalties all together... but biting! come on!

Yes biting is a little much but Bergeron should probably stick to winning draws and skating fast and leave the tough guy stuff to the big guys.

[JD]

bruins owner is a cheap buffalonian. the sports gods will get this right. hail the mighty canucks.

Want to know how CHEAP that ****er is at the airport?

25 cents for a plastic knife.

75 cents for a PACKET of dressing.

Ridiculous.

[mightysimi]

Hamhuis being hurt sucks. Hopefully it's not too long. He's a big part of our shut down pair. We do have guys that could step in though. Alberts practiced today and would probably be the choice based on his size.

[YardRat]

Oh my...Burrows with the OT winner...That has to make it hurt twice as bad.

[Dr. Lecter]

And he burned Chara and Thomas too. I feel really bad for those two.....

[SabreEleven]

Good to see other teams getting screwed by the NHL.

[rbochan]

Oh my...Burrows with the OT winner...That has to make it hurt twice as bad.
Karma for Horton.

[mightysimi]

Good to see other teams getting screwed by the NHL.

How exactly is that getting screwed by the NHL?

[SabreEleven]

ummm....Burrows should have been suspended for this game, not scoring the game winner. Vancouver got anyway with one.

[mightysimi]

ummm....Burrows should have been suspended for this game, not scoring the game winner. Vancouver got anyway with one.

ummm....Horton should have been suspended for game 7 against TB not scoring the game winner. They haven't really suspended anyone in the playoffs. I mean they let Chara turnbuckle a guy.

[The King]

:rofl: Horton threw a water bottle after being pelted with about 20 souveniers.

Burrows bit a dude.

[rbochan]

:rofl: Horton threw a water bottle after being pelted with about 20 souveniers...
And Torts got suspended for a playoff game for the same reason. But he didn't have his daddy on the disciplinary committee.

[mightysimi]

I know biting is worse. All I'm saying is they haven't been suspending guys. In fact I thought the hit from behind on D. Sedin and the turnbuckle from Chara were easily suspendible but it didn't happen so I wasn't too concerned with a suspension. It could have easily been someone else scoring. To say that Burrows is so dominant that his mere presence on the ice was the only reason Vancouver won is crazy.

[mightysimi]

And Torts got suspended for a playoff game for the same reason. But he didn't have his daddy on the disciplinary committee.

Probably why the timing of him stepping down and Shanahan coming in was around the finals.

[The King]

Realistically what happened was the NHL's worst nightmare. You don't suspend a guy because you dont want to effect the outcome of a game or a series. It basically did a 180 on them.

[mightysimi]

Realistically what happened was the NHL's worst nightmare. You don't suspend a guy because you dont want to effect the outcome of a game or a series. It basically did a 180 on them.

I'd agree with that but you would have to admit the Canucks carried the play for the entire 3rd period. Which I would say would have happened with or without Burrows.

[The King]

didnt Burrows have 2 assists as well?

[chernobylwraiths]

Did the bite result in any damage? Were there stitches or a break?

[chernobylwraiths]

I think I may be the only one, but if someone is going to put their glove in your face, they should worry about getting a finger bitten. Especially if there is an official between the two guys. I think it is just as chicken**** a move to push your glove in someone's face with an official there.

This is all predicated on just biting to get the guy's hand away. Give em a little pain and do no damage.

[The King]

Did the bite result in any damage? Were there stitches or a break?

There was a break. Bergeron skated right over to the ref after the incident and showed them the evidence.

As for you finger in the face comment, have you seen the whole scrum or just the bite. Burrows was really the aggressor in the exchange which is why he got the double minor. He was jerking Bergerons head around by the shield and was certainly instigating the whole thing. Bergy should've ducked out but like 90% of hockey players he held his ground.

I don't know whether you saw the game or not, and the full scrum certainly hasn't seen any tv time. But it went on long before the bite.

[The King]

good luck tonight mighty.

[mightysimi]

didnt Burrows have 2 assists as well?

scored 2 and had 2 assists on 3 goals? LOL. Just one. All I'm saying is it could have been anyone.

[generalmills]

If the bruins are going to win one this series, it will be tonight. 3-1

Nuckers in 5

[mightysimi]

good luck tonight mighty.

Thanks dude, you too. I actually hope you guys win one in Boston and we win on home soil. That is the hope. However, I'll take it anyway I can.

[The King]

**** Vancouver

[Dr. Lecter]

That was a bad hit.

No worse than Chara's against Montreal though.

[YardRat]

Hot start to the second period for the Bruins.

[The King]

Beat them on the scoreboard first... Beat their face second

[mightysimi]

Fak. Not looking good.

[The King]

Now go after public enemy 1or2

[The King]

Tim Thomas owns that space you don't come into Timmys space

[The King]

Statement?

[mightysimi]

Any game can be an enigma. If it happens again I'll worry. It sucks going down to 5 d when one of them is Alberts. I don't think the hit was worth 5 min and a game. I mean yes it was interference but it was clean. Just because he was hurt gives him the 5 and the game? I'm not so sure.

[The King]

We'll see what the league says about it.

Fact of the matter is the Bruins are pissed.

The refs did a great job last night (minus the no call on the only Vancouver goal). But the Bruins are still looking to go after Lapierre and Burrows.

[SabreEleven]

We'll see what the league says about it.

Fact of the matter is the Bruins are pissed.

The refs did a great job last night (minus the no call on the only Vancouver goal). But the Bruins are still looking to go after Lapierre and Burrows.

and minus the no call on Thomas for that hit.. I thought that was a bush league hit by him. The guy wasn't even in the crease.

[The King]

The one on Sedin?

He was playing the puck with his hand at the top of Timmys crease while still moving forward. Good Night Irene.

[The King]

also this is Romes 3rd misconduct this season... Certainly something the league will consider.

[TheGhostofJimKelly]

That was a ass beating by Boston and that was a definite cheap shot.

[The King]

Game 4 is going to rule.

[The King]

<DIR>Severe Concussion for Horton out for the remainder (as expected)
NHL is meeting with Rome at 11AM
</DIR>

[mightysimi]

That was a ass beating by Boston and that was a definite cheap shot.

I disagree that was a cheap shot. Van has been standing up at the blueline all year and to dump it off and admire your pass? Some of the blame has to be on Horton. He didn't target the head. He didn't use the elbow. Yes it was interference and probably because he is hurt, he will get suspended.

[mightysimi]

also this is Romes 3rd misconduct this season... Certainly something the league will consider.

This where the players are going to have a tough time determining what is suspendible. McGinn from SJ comes up and specifically targets the head with an elbow, mostly from behind, into the glass. No suspension. Here, other than being late, relatively clean. Probably suspended.

[TheGhostofJimKelly]

I disagree that was a cheap shot. Van has been standing up at the blueline all year and to dump it off and admire your pass? Some of the blame has to be on Horton. He didn't target the head. He didn't use the elbow. Yes it was interference and probably because he is hurt, he will get suspended.

Disagree

[SabreEleven]

It was intereference (and a cheap shot) because it was about 3 seconds after the pass was made...way too long.

[The King]

I counted 4

[DMBcrew36]

Two thoughts:

Dirty hit by Rome - he was late.

Goaltenders should be fair game to hit outside of the paint, if they themselves are going to try to hit like Tim Thomas did. Either give the goaltender a penalty or make it a two-way street.

[mightysimi]

Two thoughts:

Dirty hit by Rome - he was late.

Goaltenders should be fair game to hit outside of the paint, if they themselves are going to try to hit like Tim Thomas did. Either give the goaltender a penalty or make it a two-way street.
Yes he was late because the winger received the pass. If it was a dump in, it wasn't that late because Horton is still the puck carrier. I don't see it as dirty. It was a fraction of a second play. If Horton is looking where he is going and not admiring his pass, he probably avoids contact all together.

And if Thomas is going to hit, he should be allowed to be hit. I mean there has to be both ways. You can't hit without the chance of being hit yourself. Now the hit on Sedin, he was just standing his ground (maybe a little too firmly) but he does have a history of lunging at players.

[The King]

Two thoughts:

Dirty hit by Rome - he was late.

Goaltenders should be fair game to hit outside of the paint, if they themselves are going to try to hit like Tim Thomas did. Either give the goaltender a penalty or make it a two-way street.

<iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8gPZare9vpI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

You make it sound like he went out and after him. He was coming into the crease with the puck in his hand. he got layed out at the top of the crease.

[chernobylwraiths]

I hate this "admiring his pass" crap. At a certain point, you HAVE to be able to feel comfortable or not fear getting hit after making a pass. To those who said it was three or four seconds before the hit, you're high. It might have been two. However, it was a cheap shot. He launched himself at the guy. Deserves a game or two.

[trapezeus]

it was interference by thomas. he has to attempt to go after the puck. Then goaltenders should sprint out at breakaways and just go after the legs.

rome's hit was late and a headshot. raffe torres is lucky he didn't get called when he left his feet at the end behind the glass.

[The King]

NHL reports 4 game suspension for VAN's Aaron Rome.

[The King]

it was interference by thomas. he has to attempt to go after the puck. Then goaltenders should sprint out at breakaways and just go after the legs.

Except he hit him in the chest. While he had the puck in his hand, at the top of his crease.

[mightysimi]

NHL reports 4 game suspension for VAN's Aaron Rome.

Brutal. I wonder if it would have been as bad had he been a 4th liner.

[mightysimi]

it was interference by thomas. he has to attempt to go after the puck. Then goaltenders should sprint out at breakaways and just go after the legs.

rome's hit was late and a headshot. raffe torres is lucky he didn't get called when he left his feet at the end behind the glass.

He got hurt when his head hit the ice. Not when he was hit in the chest.

[DraftBoy]

Watched the game last night.

Commentators I thought nailed it, the hit was dirty and way late, but Horton also has to keep his head on a swivel. No surprise Rome got a big suspension, they were going to make an example out of any secondary player who committed a big infraction.

Boston put the boots to Vancouver but I dont think it was a statement. Vancouver was still hitting like crazy towards the end (See Torres penalty with under 2 to go, missed the hit but clearly they aren't intimidated or quitting). Boston has to show up again with as much fire.

I think the finger thing now is dead as far as motivation goes for Boston, the hit on Horton was nasty and his loss will be missed more than Rome for four games.

There is no way I can see Luongo being as bad as he was last night two games in a row.

Vancouver is going to continue to be physical that much we can all bet on, but can Boston continue to score and make the offense work? Going to be fun to watch.

Two great finals series in the NHL and NBA.

[trapezeus]

I was with you DB until you mentioned he NBA. Worst sport ever.

[The King]

Soccer is worse IMO

[trapezeus]

was the horton hit, the hockey god's way of telling boston fans that the chara hit on pacs was indeed illegal?

or do bruin fans want to complain more about a guy who skated with his head down through the center of the ice and a bit finger?

[The King]

Yes. This was gods master plan to teach us right and wrong. Horton and Pachoretti are just pawns in life's hockey lessons.

[psubills62]

I'd rather watch soccer than NBA.

[G Wolly]

How was that Thomas hit not called for interference?

[trapezeus]

Yes. This was gods master plan to teach us right and wrong. Horton and Pachoretti are just pawns in life's hockey lessons.

Sweet. I always knew hockey was much more than a game.

[TheGhostofJimKelly]

How in the world would someone think that Rome's hit wasn't a shoulder to the head?

http://img839.imageshack.us/img839/7217/hortonhit.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/839/hortonhit.jpg/)

[mightysimi]

If I lay on the ice and someone bumps my head is that a head shot? Of course not. Horton is ducking and not paying attention. Anyone who calls this a dirty hit has clearly not played the game. It is a late hit, which warrants a penalty for interference, not the biggest suspension in finals history.

Also that is from the front. Not the side as the rule about head shots is stated to protect.

[chernobylwraiths]

How was that Thomas hit not called for interference?

For about the tenth time, the guy had the puck and was about to put it into the net. And it is the kind of play that if Miller made it, everybody would be praising him for taking matters into his own hands.

[chernobylwraiths]

If I lay on the ice and someone bumps my head is that a head shot? Of course not. Horton is ducking and not paying attention. Anyone who calls this a dirty hit has clearly not played the game. It is a late hit, which warrants a penalty for interference, not the biggest suspension in finals history.

Also that is from the front. Not the side as the rule about head shots is stated to protect.

He's pretty talented to be ducking AND not paying attention.

Oh, LOVE the "never played the game" comment. Only people who played the game can comment on any hockey. It's a wonder why people don't watch the sport with people trying to justify hits like Neil's on Drury, Cooke's on Savard and even this hit which while a lot more straight on than those other two was just as cheap with the guy launching into him while he wasn't even looking.

It's about time the NHL came down on ALL cheap hits. Too bad several were already let go before this one. If they want to be taken seriously as a sport, they have to be more consistent with their suspensions. Briere deserved a game for his hit on Neidermeyer and Richards definitely deserved one for his hit on Connolly.

[chernobylwraiths]

How was that Thomas hit not called for interference?

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=368195

[The King]

I also find it weird that not one commentator on cbs/vs or tsn. Even brought this up as a potential interference call. Most of them were praising Timmy for the hit.

Im Timmy's presser he mentions the B's practice this exact situation and he's terrible if he allows the player to drop the puck which is why he played the body. Sounds like solid preparation to me.

[mightysimi]

I hate this "admiring his pass" crap. At a certain point, you HAVE to be able to feel comfortable or not fear getting hit after making a pass. To those who said it was three or four seconds before the hit, you're high. It might have been two. However, it was a cheap shot. He launched himself at the guy. Deserves a game or two.

How is admiring your pass crap? To anyone who has played, that is as taboo as blindly tossing it up the middle in your own end or passing it between someone's skates. You have to be responsible to a point. Yes it was a big hit. However, the NHL basically said if he was .5 of a second sooner, it is not even a penalty let alone suspension. Like I said definitely not worth the longest suspension in finals history.

[SabreEleven]

I also find it weird that not one commentator on cbs/vs or tsn. Even brought this up as a potential interference call. Most of them were praising Timmy for the hit.

Im Timmy's presser he mentions the B's practice this exact situation and he's terrible if he allows the player to drop the puck which is why he played the body. Sounds like solid preparation to me.

You must have been drunk because the Vs. announcers mentioned that it was interference and he shouldn't be allowed to hit because he can't be hit.

[mightysimi]

I also find it weird that not one commentator on cbs/vs or tsn. Even brought this up as a potential interference call. Most of them were praising Timmy for the hit.

Im Timmy's presser he mentions the B's practice this exact situation and he's terrible if he allows the player to drop the puck which is why he played the body. Sounds like solid preparation to me.

I just watched it again. It cannot be interference. He had the puck. However, the should be a line drawn if goalies can't be hit, they shouldn't be allowed to hit.

[G Wolly]

Alright, except the definition of interference is making contact with a player out of the way of playing the puck.

And although Sedin may have had the puck for a second, Thomas was not "playing the puck" when he lunged forward and took him out.

Sedin was still in the white ice, not the blue of his crease.

But that's my opinion.

[chernobylwraiths]

How is admiring your pass crap? To anyone who has played, that is as taboo as blindly tossing it up the middle in your own end or passing it between someone's skates. You have to be responsible to a point. Yes it was a big hit. However, the NHL basically said if he was .5 of a second sooner, it is not even a penalty let alone suspension. Like I said definitely not worth the longest suspension in finals history.

Because if you look before you pass and see open ice, then you should feel relatively comfortable that you won't be hit. I don't know for sure because I can't watch it now, but I believe that the pass was before the blue line and a player, you kind of do have to know if the guy is taking it over the blue line before just skating over the blue line don't you? So, maybe he was watching to make sure Lucic took the puck over the blue line before proceeding over himself. Also, .5 second in hockey is quite a bit of time and many things can happen. I wonder how many feet that would be? That had just about every ingredient to being a cheap shot: launched at the player, player looking the other way, late hit, shoulder to the head.

Longest suspension in finals history? I don't know, maybe a precedent has been set? Maybe guys will start to think before making that devastating hit that might end another player's career?

[chernobylwraiths]

Sedin had the puck, Thomas checked him cleanly. The fact that he is a goalie has nothing to do with it, well mostly. But since those first two statements are inarguable, I don't see how it is an issue. Thomas is pretty lucky that he got his toe on the puck accidentally because it almost went in.

[SabreEleven]

Sedin had the puck, Thomas checked him cleanly. The fact that he is a goalie has nothing to do with it, well mostly. But since those first two statements are inarguable, I don't see how it is an issue. Thomas is pretty lucky that he got his toe on the puck accidentally because it almost went in.

Because you can't check a goalie when he has the puck. If you want to hit, you should be able to be hit.

[chernobylwraiths]

Because you can't check a goalie when he has the puck. If you want to hit, you should be able to be hit.

not disagreeing with the goalie is untouchable thing, just stating that the rule is the goalie can do that.

[TheGhostofJimKelly]

Obviously nobody here has played hockey before, most of us think it was a dirty play.

It is obvious nobody in the NHL front office has every played hockey before, they suspended Rome four games.

Claude Julien has never played the game either, “I think what I would call it is it was a blindside hit that we’ve talked about taking out of the game. (Horton) made the pass. It was late. (Rome) came from the blindside,” Julien told reporters.

[rbochan]

<iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EdZeavWE-fM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Not suspended...

[The King]

Fact Check: He was suspended 4 games.

http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/hockey/bruins/view.bg?articleid=1314446

[mightysimi]

Obviously nobody here has played hockey before, most of us think it was a dirty play.

It is obvious nobody in the NHL front office has every played hockey before, they suspended Rome four games.

Claude Julien has never played the game either, “I think what I would call it is it was a blindside hit that we’ve talked about taking out of the game. (Horton) made the pass. It was late. (Rome) came from the blindside,” Julien told reporters.

The NHL said that was not a dirty play. There are north/south hits like that all the time in the game they said. It was a late hit. That was it. He was hit late and injured. That's why the 4 games. Julien is biased as to what kind of hit it was. Just as the Canucks will say it was clean. All I am saying is that Horton must shoulder some of the blame here. If he is not looking the other way, there is no collision. And like was said 1 sec is a long time in hockey. And what chokes me more than anything is that Rome was injured for 2 games on the receiving end of one of these hits and no suspension.

[mightysimi]

Because if you look before you pass and see open ice, then you should feel relatively comfortable that you won't be hit. I don't know for sure because I can't watch it now, but I believe that the pass was before the blue line and a player, you kind of do have to know if the guy is taking it over the blue line before just skating over the blue line don't you? So, maybe he was watching to make sure Lucic took the puck over the blue line before proceeding over himself. Also, .5 second in hockey is quite a bit of time and many things can happen. I wonder how many feet that would be? That had just about every ingredient to being a cheap shot: launched at the player, player looking the other way, late hit, shoulder to the head.

Longest suspension in finals history? I don't know, maybe a precedent has been set? Maybe guys will start to think before making that devastating hit that might end another player's career?

He knows where he is on the ice. He has been playing since he was 4. I'm not taking all the blame away from Rome just trying to point out that it was an excessive suspension that probably wouldn't have been so big if it was to Paille or Kelly.

[TheGhostofJimKelly]

Well it is obvious there are different opinions here and neither of us is going to come close to agreeing. I see it as the NHL wants to get rid of hits to the head, it was obviously a hit to the head, there was no ducking involved. You also said it was a late hit, late hits are cheap.

[mightysimi]

Well it is obvious there are different opinions here and neither of us is going to come close to agreeing. I see it as the NHL wants to get rid of hits to the head, it was obviously a hit to the head, there was no ducking involved. You also said it was a late hit, late hits are cheap.

Ok might as well agree to disagree.

Moving on to game 4. I've seen Luongo in this type of scenario before. If the Bruins get a quick one, it might be a long night again. If he makes a few saves and gets into the game, he should be all right. Plus as long as Vancouver doesn't fall into the after the whistle trap from last game, it should be all right.

[The King]

The Bruins are in the drivers seat tonight. Avoid mistakes and they even up the series.

[chernobylwraiths]

He knows where he is on the ice. He has been playing since he was 4. I'm not taking all the blame away from Rome just trying to point out that it was an excessive suspension that probably wouldn't have been so big if it was to Paille or Kelly.

I don't doubt you are right. And I'm not saying he was trying to be dirty, but I think he was trying to hit him about as hard as he could.

[The King]

I don't doubt you are right. And I'm not saying he was trying to be dirty, but I think he was trying to hit him about as hard as he could.

Right and unloading everything you can into a player in a vulnerable position is going to get you tagged (headshots 100% of the time). And if that player gets hurt you're going to get some time off more likely than not. Especially if you're a repeat offender.

[DMBcrew36]

Sedin had the puck, Thomas checked him cleanly. The fact that he is a goalie has nothing to do with it, well mostly. But since those first two statements are inarguable, I don't see how it is an issue. Thomas is pretty lucky that he got his toe on the puck accidentally because it almost went in.

The fact that he is a goalie is entirely why some people don't like it, though, because he can hit someone but he himself is untouchable, even outside the crease.

As Frazer says on TSN - "On occasion goalies will continue to do what Thomas did on Monday night simply because they can. Heaven forbid if a player touches them however. "

Luongo could feel free to do the same, I suppose.

[SkateZilla]

<iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EdZeavWE-fM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Not suspended...

Thats Wierd, usually Ex-Sabres Get the Ban hammer for nothing....

[SkateZilla]

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=368195

Thomas got more Hits than Sedin, and Sedin Spent 14+ Minutes in the Box.

That Strategy was effective. Least we know boston has a coach with a brain.

[DMBcrew36]

Obviously nobody here has played hockey before

Speak for yourself. Been playing since 3 y.o. and still play 3 nights a week.

[DraftBoy]

The Bruins are in the drivers seat tonight. Avoid mistakes and they even up the series.

Only team in the world that is down in a series yet in the drivers seat.

[DraftBoy]

Speak for yourself. Been playing since 3 y.o. and still play 3 nights a week.

I think he was making a point through sarcasm...

[SabreEleven]

Only team in the world that is down in a series yet in the drivers seat.

I think they shot their goal scoring wad all in 1 game

[The King]

I know a lot of you guys hate the B's but here's an interesting read about Vancouver and how they're viewed. From a Toronto paper...

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/canucks-have-become-nhls-most-hated-team/article2050961/

[mightysimi]

I know a lot of you guys hate the B's but here's an interesting read about Vancouver and how they're viewed. From a Toronto paper...

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/hockey/canucks-have-become-nhls-most-hated-team/article2050961/

That douche is trying to get anyone to read his column. I'm sure everyone outside of the Leafs is a hated team to a guy from Toronto.

[The King]

NHLBruins (http://twitter.com/#!/NHLBruins) Boston Bruins



Vigneault said the Canucks have spoke to the NHL about Thomas' aggressive style outside his crease...^BISH

Vancouvers coach is such a pussy whiner.

[trapezeus]

bruins lost one of their best.

vancouver is replacing rome with another equal person.

advantage, vancouver.

bruins struggle to score at times. this game is going to be a 3-1 blowout like feel by vancouver.

They go home to wrap it up to a stadium full of greenmen.

[The King]

I assure you the media has over hyped what Horton brings. He's a solid forward but I think Peverly will fill in admirably.

[chernobylwraiths]

I assure you the media has over hyped what Horton brings. He's a solid forward but I think Peverly will fill in admirably.

I thought he was just an average player this year for Boston. Actually, I thought for the first half that people were wondering why they got him, but that just might be my perception. I also thought there was talk that he didn't do much in the playoffs until those two overtime goals. What are his stats (were his stats) in the playoffs this year?

[The King]

Much of his success this post season has been more positioning rather than skill. He's a very streaky player and during the middle of the season he was down right absent... Once that line gelled he's definitely been a contributor. Losing a first line guy sucks, but this isn't Cam Neely we're talking about. The team revolves around Bergeron, Krejci and ST's.

Horton had 17 pts 8 goals and 9 assists. Seguin will return to the lineup tonight.

[SkateZilla]

bruins lost one of their best.

vancouver is replacing rome with another equal person.

advantage, vancouver.

bruins struggle to score at times. this game is going to be a 3-1 blowout like feel by vancouver.

They go home to wrap it up to a stadium full of greenmen.

and flashing women.

[G Wolly]

They go home to wrap it up to a stadium full of greenmen.

I hate the green men.

[mightysimi]

I hate the green men.

But they get more air time and P@ssy than you!!

Having said that, they are a little overplayed.

[SabreEleven]

Renee Rancourt sucks...whoever told him he can sing, lied

[The King]

Rene is a god. He's been doing the anthem since I was a kid... Love him!

[SabreEleven]

so he sucked that long?

[The King]

Legend

[The King]

Rich ****in Peverly!

[DraftBoy]

Great game for Boston, you were right MBB statement game from Boston for sure.

[The King]

When are these Vancouver pansies going to learn... We will out muscle every one of these SOBs. Burrows is a ***** and Timmy just told him.

[The King]

The physical play just plays into our hands if The Canucks don't start doing what got them here they're toast. This next game is huuuuge.

[mightysimi]

We are getting murdered. No momentum anywhere. I noticed a lot of bouncing pucks but just brutal.

[BSXIII]

What will Elaine have to ***** about after this one?

[DMBcrew36]

What will Elaine have to ***** about after this one?

I remember when I watched my first hockey game, too.

[The King]

We are getting murdered. No momentum anywhere. I noticed a lot of bouncing pucks but just brutal.

I'm not sure what the issue is... but I think it starts with your big 3... once this series got physical they disappeared.

[trapezeus]

i don't think physicality is the issue. the issue is the canucks just aren't skating. they look tired. They are reaching and waving at pucks instead of skating through.

I don't know the canuck lines very well, but it doesn't seem like they are even rolling 3 lines.

they also need to just run tim thomas early in game 5. pay the price for that and get in his head.

If luongo doesn't disappear after bad goals, game 4 would have been a 1 goal game.

I'm concerned but i don't think that was a statement game by the bruins that suggests they win the next two.

game 5 in vancouver is a good thing for the canucks. they need to find their legs and find them fast.

[The King]

They played physical with Timmy in game 4 IMO. And if you think crashing him is going to get into his head then you know nothing about Tim Thomas.

[mightysimi]

They played physical with Timmy in game 4 IMO. And if you think crashing him is going to get into his head then you know nothing about Tim Thomas.

My concern is everyone is playing a little too fast, just panicking with the puck. Firing shots from everywhere is not the way to beat Thomas. It will be a bit better in Vancouver as we will have last change. The ice will be better so we should see cleaner passes. I've been saying since the playoffs started that I didn't want Boston. However, I don't think it is over.

[The King]

Of course it isnt over. These teams are here for a reason.

[DraftBoy]

They played physical with Timmy in game 4 IMO. And if you think crashing him is going to get into his head then you know nothing about Tim Thomas.

Clearly...he's more than willing to try and take out a guys knee with a slash any time.

[The King]

That was awesome.

[trapezeus]

tim thomas is playing at the top of his game. you don't think goaltenders routinely hate getting crashed into. game four was really clear by the canucks. they'll shoot from the outside and not get to the net and give him a couple extra whacks. over a long period in a game, that adds up.

again, if luongo didn't fall apart again, this would have been a close game. and one mistake will be the difference in the next 3 possible games.

[The King]

Vancouver isnt tough enough to face the retaliation of crashing into Timmy. Whether it's Thomas delivering the payback or some one else. I haven't seen anything from them to make me think otherwise.

[SkateZilla]

I'm not sure what the issue is... but I think it starts with your big 3... once this series got physical they disappeared.

Right into the penalty box.

[The King]

Tonight is the biggest Bruins game of my lifetime... I'm fired up!

[SabreEleven]

So they play tonight and skip the entire weekend...makes totally sense :rolleyes: No wonder this league is the 5th sport in this country. Bettman sucks dick.

[G Wolly]

So they play tonight and skip the entire weekend...makes totally sense :rolleyes: No wonder this league is the 5th sport in this country. Bettman sucks dick.

Yea.

2 days off between games is the reason it's the 5th ranked sport in America.

Seems legit.

[DraftBoy]

So they play tonight and skip the entire weekend...makes totally sense :rolleyes: No wonder this league is the 5th sport in this country. Bettman sucks dick.

The other finals decided to take tomorrow night off and capitalize on a national Sunday night audience.

There is a right way (NBA) and a wrong way (NHL).

NHL should of taken tonight off and played tomorrow night, imo.

[SabreEleven]

Yea.

2 days off between games is the reason it's the 5th ranked sport in America.

Seems legit.

No, they are the 5th sport because they don't know how advertise their sport correctly and this just another example, **** sucker.

[rbochan]

I'd imagine the arena was scheduled for use long before the playoffs started.

[Mski]

after next fall with no NFL or NBA season to compete against, they'll become more relevant... but i'm sure Bettman will screw that one up too

[trapezeus]

The other finals decided to take tomorrow night off and capitalize on a national Sunday night audience.

There is a right way (NBA) and a wrong way (NHL).

NHL should of taken tonight off and played tomorrow night, imo.

espcially since they are flying from the fast east coast to the extreme west coast.

i said this earlier in the thread, but having 2 days off between 1 and 2 and then doing it every other night with a lot of travel inbetween is assine.

also like DB said, a saturday night audience would have been better. Would not have been in conflict with the NBA finals.

Sadly, i think if the NHL played on sunday, it would have been between NBA finals, the Tony's and the NHL and I think the Tony's beat the NHL in ratings.

and just to get under bedard's skin, "all things Boston sucks! go canucks!"

[The King]

The Garden was booked with Glee Monday Night. Boston told them to get the f out!

[The King]

No diving!

[YardRat]

Wow...Terrible call on the goalie interference.

[The King]

Burrows flops more than the Golden Girls in a two piece

[mightysimi]

Holy ****!! I'm in Vancouver for UFC 131 and the city was buzzing. I went downtown and the streets were closed with like 20000 people milling around and cheering. There were cars honking until like 1130. It's a fun crowd to be a part of. Hopefully we can steal one in Boston.

[mightysimi]

Its amazing how the away team looks some much slower in every game this series.

[trapezeus]

do you really want to win it in boston? or would you like to win it at home. a team that has never won a championship game deserves to do it in its own barn.

[SabreEleven]

At this point I think Vancouver wouldn't mind winning it is Mystery, Alaska.

[The King]

Its amazing how the away team looks some much slower in every game this series.

You know I agree with Bostons game plan to let Vancouver be more physical. I don't think hitting on the road gives you any edge. But the offense just could never get their bearings each shot was into Lou's chest and the scoring chances were floundered with poor puck handling.

The shot off the boards was perfectly timed on Vancouvers behalf.

[mightysimi]

It was lucky too because he almost got back. Think Boston can spank Vancouver athome again? I hope it's tight checking.

[The King]

Of course they can... but will they? They need to bounce back from Fridays kick in the pants.

[The King]

Lou's eating a big crow sandwich.

[don137]

Boston showed there typical classless attitude when Raymond got hurt. They kept cheering after he was hurt and when he finally got up never acknowledged Raymond with applause and acted like they could care less.

[The King]

I thought the same thing... but it did happen right out of the gate. The crowd was fired up to begin with.

This series hasn't been about class though. On either side.

[Ickybaluky]

If the Bruins win Game 7 and take the Stanley Cup, the Patriots have the longest championship drought in Boston.

[The King]

Can you delete this post. I dont want to see anything like this. There's one game left to play.

[chernobylwraiths]

Bruins are due.

[SabreEleven]

Boston: The City of Douchbags and Championships :ill:

[The King]

60 minutes to go... The Bruins are not the favorites here.

[mightysimi]

I was on a flight from SF to Hawaii and the stupid airline didn't have TV's. I mean what century is it? It's probably better that I didn't because you would of heard of an in air incident. Hopefully they can shake it off and keep winning at home. Now I have to watch the next game from sea. Hopefully the satellite holds!! In case I can't get back to a computer in a while good luck King!! But if your team bus crashes and we win by default I would appreciate that too.

[DraftBoy]

If the Bruins win Game 7 and take the Stanley Cup, the Patriots have the longest championship drought in Boston.

Just for Bedard I will help him out with this.

[trapezeus]

series is over. bruins have shown their dominance and luongo has been chased one too many times. this is an easy lock and the pressure truly is on boston to not piss away a chance to beat a broken team.

How's that sound Bedard?

[The King]

I'm too nervous. I believe if the Bruins play their game we can beat Vancouver even at their best... but this game means everything. Anything can happen.

[trapezeus]

nope nope...this is all set. boston police have already made arrangements for an unruly stanley cup championship. The hockey gods want it this way. they freaking broke a players back as payback for the burrows hit. This thing is a slam dunk.

http://www.boston.com/sports/hockey/bruins/articles/2011/06/15/police_ready_for_game_7_revelry/

[The King]

Yea the city also wouldnt allow us in the Garden tonight... ridiculous.

[trapezeus]

i like that the police think that boston is a city of drunks due to their sports. Truth is a boston fan will be drunk and want to fight you no matter what.

[The King]

20 mins...

[SabreEleven]

****

[SabreEleven]

**** Boston...**** them up their stupid asses

[DraftBoy]

Congrats to the Bruins, they earned it.

[SabreEleven]

I don't think Vancouver likes Bettman

[The King]

They've been classy other wise

[SabreEleven]

Bettman couldn't hear himself think

[Ickybaluky]

**** Boston...**** them up their stupid asses

3 SB Championships, 2 World Series, 1 NBA Championship and 1 Stanley Cup. That is a pretty good decade.

[G Wolly]

Congrats to the Bruins, they earned it.

No, they didn't.

Vancouver just **** the bed.

Horribly.

[SquishDaFish]

No, they didn't.

Vancouver just **** the bed.

Horribly.

How can you make that comment? Bruins played their asses off. Outscored the highest scoring team of the year by more than double. They only scored 8 goals against the Bs. Bostons Power Play was better than theirs. Tim Thomas showed why hes winning the Vezina trophy. Boston should of won it in 4 or 5 the way they played.

[jcdavey]

bruins totally earned this

when you lose 3 games by 3 goals total and win the other 4 by 18

yeah you've earned it ......

[trapezeus]

NBC and the NHL must have been shaking their heads the entire game. as a huge hockey fan, that game was boring as hell. game 7, two good goalies (on paper), the best team during the regular season, a town that represents hockey well with passionate fans, etc.

This had the makings of being a marketers dream come true. yet, after the SH goal, it was over. vancouver skated around defeated with no answers.

that was just a terrible game 7.

[The King]

It was domination.

[SabreEleven]

No, they didn't.

Vancouver just **** the bed.

Horribly.

Even though I hate Boston with a passion, they earned it.

[SabreEleven]

3 SB Championships, 2 World Series, 1 NBA Championship and 1 Stanley Cup. That is a pretty good decade.

**** them, did you not hear me the first time?

[The King]

Even though I hate Boston with a passion, they earned it. Vancouvers biggest problem is leadership. They have an all pro goalie seeking compliments from the opposing team. Luongo honestly believes Tim Thomas is better than him and he's looking for approval.

Henrik Sedin is an absolute wuss. You cant lead your team to a stanley cup when you have a pipe cleaner for a back bone. His brother isn't any different.

If I am Elaine... I am giving the C to Kessler next year, he played his ass off last night. He's the type of player who can motivate and inspire a locker room.

[TheGhostofJimKelly]

Take solice in knowing Raffi Torres didn't get a ring.

[Nighthawk]

Boston earned that as a team. Way too much credit is given to Thomas, when his defense is more of the story, they played their ass off in front of him. He gave up a ton of terrible rebounds, but his defense saved his ass play in play out.

[The King]

http://i.imgur.com/YDzF5.png

[trapezeus]

Boston earned that as a team. Way too much credit is given to Thomas, when his defense is more of the story, they played their ass off in front of him. He gave up a ton of terrible rebounds, but his defense saved his ass play in play out.

I would say thomas played very well. but i see your point. defensemen really did clear the frotn of the net. shots weren't getting through from bad angles. there would be a couple big saves by thomas that looked better than they should have because he was so far out to begin with.

but he made the saves. loungo had shots right at this chest that he ole'd.

i told a bunch of my pals that this felt like the bills losing the 4th superbowl. now all the boston teams have their championship. there is nothing to hold on to. i just hate them a little more now.

[Michael82]

3 SB Championships, 2 World Series, 1 NBA Championship and 1 Stanley Cup. That is a pretty good decade.
So, how many people in the city of Boston sold their soul for a championship? I'm trying to figure out how big the list is of people that will be joining the devil in hell once their time comes up. It's obvious that something like that has happened this century. I can't believe how much luck and winning one city is getting in one era. It's crazy!

[The King]

Chara & Seidenberg have been awesome.

[Ickybaluky]

NBC and the NHL must have been shaking their heads the entire game.

I don't think NBC or the NHL are upset considering the ratings (http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/bruins/post/_/id/6843/record-rating-in-boston-for-game-7):


The Bruins' Stanley Cup-clinching win matched the highest preliminary television rating for a Game 7 on record.

Boston's 4-0 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday on NBC earned a 5.7 overnight rating and 10 share. That ties the 2003 Game 7 between Anaheim and New Jersey.

It is up 14 percent from the most recent Game 7 in 2009, featuring two popular U.S. teams, the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings.

The 5.7 is the second-best Stanley Cup overnight rating in 37 years, behind only last year's Chicago-Philadelphia Game 6, which drew a 5.8/10. It's the highest for a game involving a Canadian team in 38 years.

[SkateZilla]

who's to say that Vancouver wouldnt have rioted if they won?, Im pretty sure Win or Lose the Fans would have rioted regardless. at least boston brought in extra security.

[trapezeus]

I don't think NBC or the NHL are upset considering the ratings (http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/bruins/post/_/id/6843/record-rating-in-boston-for-game-7):

the ratings were up, but i think the worry is that that game isn't going to make others be like, "oh crap, next year, i have to watch the stanley cup. that was awesome."

that game was the worst of what the casual fan thinks. A lot of stoppages in play. not a lot of goals, not very interesting, lots of neutral zone hockey without any flow.