Game 32: Canadiens whip Leafs, end home skid
posted by Dave Stubbs at 0h50 EST on Dec 16
Koivu put the Canadiens on the scoresheet at 9:03 of the first period on the Habs' fourth shot, whipping a backhand from 20 feet beside Leafs goalie Vesa Toskala’s crease into a maze in front that wound up in the Toronto goal off Leaf defenceman Hal Gill’s skate. Koivu’s sixth goal of the season gave Sergei Kostitsyn an assist, his first career NHL point, with another helper going to Christopher Higgins.
Drought? What drought? Koivu scored his second of the night at 3:09 of the second period, and there was nothing fluky about this one. Higgins snapped in a gorgeous pass from behind the Toronto faceoff circle, and Koivu, having slipped in behind the Toronto defence, cradled the puck then deked around Toskala, sliding the puck in. Defenceman Francis Bouillon also picked up an assist.
The Canadiens went up 3-0 at 10:17 on a hit-me deflection off the body of Andrei Kostitsyn. The play was started by Kovalev, who showed great puck sense in waiting to find the avenue for a pass from near the boards back to Mike Komisarek. The defenceman’s wrist shot from just inside the blue line banked in off Kostitsyn for the Russian’s sixth goal of the season.
Kovalev then scored the Canadiens’ fourth and his 14th of the year, having his rebound bounce past Toskala off defenceman Tomas Kaberle’s skate at 8:32 of the third.
The Leafs’ Boyd Devereaux spoiled the party, at least a little, his knuckleball seeming to deflect off defenceman Roman Hamrlik’s stick and past Price at 15:54. Listen to how Price describes it.
Leafs defenceman Bryan McCabe left the game with a broken left wrist in the third period after an awkward hit into the boards from Andrei Kostitsyn. The wrist, which is broken in three places, will force McCabe to miss the next six to eight weeks, according to team officials.
In five games against Toronto this season, the Canadiens have won in regulation, overtime and a shootout, the Leafs winning in regulation and overtime.
Montreal is home to the Florida Panthers on Tuesday before setting off on a holiday-spanning six-game road trip.
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Submitted by habsfan_56 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 22:13.
check out tsn the reporters comments on the Kostitsyn hit on McCabe (towards the end)
agree completely on what they say about the leafs
http://broadband.tsn.ca/tsn/?vid=24724
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 22:58.
Thanks for the clip. They are in total agreement... they say that's what you call an accident. But even better "the Leafs like to call foul for everything" - they don't actually say the word "whiners" but if you play the clip backwards you can hear it.
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by 24 Cups on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 19:22.
A message for fellow Habs fans in the Ottawa and Montreal regions. Toronto was hit with one of the worst storms in years and it's on your way. Rumour has it that it's courtesy of Paul Maurice. A small Price to pay for the joy of watching our boys humiliate the Lousy Leafs last night.
The Original 24 Cups
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 21:36.
Ummm...our storm started at 7 this morning...
but thanks :P
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 20:52.
You must mean Paul "Crybaby" Maurice. Of the Toronto Cry Babies. They throw all the nicest parties!
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 17:36.
Here's a question for someone with a lot more Habs knowledge than me.
Is there some easy way to compare the draft selections during the Tremblay era with the post-Tremblay draft selections? I'm sure it would be interesting! ...and it would probably indicate that we should give Bob a little more credit than some of us do under less positive circumstances than last night!
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by Bob Barker on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 19:37.
go to www.hockeydb.com
Did you know we drafted Rory Fitzpatrick?
Man, the mid to late 90s were brutal for the Habs. Ever since 2001 though we've been getting some solid talent every year.
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Mon, 12/17/2007 - 00:06.
When Fitspatrick came up with the Habs they had a young "D" (Rivet & co.) and Rory looked like one of the better ones and St.Louis were happy to get him in that trade and many Habs fans were scratching their heads at that trade as the Habs said he wasn't as dedicated as the other young "D". It was downhill from there as Rory had good size but had peaked with no real upside and had to scramble to get another wiff of the NHL.
Submitted by 24 Cups on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 19:19.
Savard 1984 - 1996
Houle 1996 - 2000
Savard 2000-2003
Gainey (Timmins) 2003 - 2007
The Original 24 Cups
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 20:50.
Well our first picks get a LOT better after 2000!!!
Some real winners in the 90's!
1994 Brad Brown - Toronto Marlies
1995 Terry Ryan - Cincinnati Cyclones
1996 Matt Higgins - Ingolstadt ERC
1997 Jason Ward - Tampa Bay
1998 Eric Chouinard - Straubing Tigers
1999 Alexander Buturlin - Russia
2000 Ron Hainsey - with the Blue Jackets
2001 Mike Komisarek
2002 Chris Higgins
2003 Andrei Kostitsyn
2004 Kyle Chipchura
2005 Carey Price
Thanks for the DB link
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 18:16.
As I can recall, it was Andre Savard who made the picks, and then it's been Trevor Timmins, Gainey gave the guys total freedom. That's why he is so smart.
But yes, Andre Kostitsyn, S. Kostitsyn, and others are a lot better than Terry Ryan, Brent Bilodeau, and others....
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 21:37.
Me too, or a big winger who can score..one or the other is fine with me...Think me might have to wait for Mad Max tho....he'll be here before Vinny gets here.
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 17:00.
Hey folks,
I was thinking about all this BS about AK "collaring" McCabe or whatever he wsa supposed to do. I guess that's a lot better than saying McCabe, who is prone to make... let's call them Mcstakes, is clutzy enough to get his fingers caught in the glass all by his little self, which is what happened. Testament to the fact that no players took any action, no one made a fuss at the time and even Ferguson said it was AK's fault.
So Paul "Crybaby" Maurice.... I hope you're having a good time sulking in your beer!
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by kevin m on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 16:10.
Message to Kilroy A.K.A. Gilles Poisson
I hope this doesn't get deleted.
FYI I've also had one of my posts partially deleted for questionable language, leaving it in limbo with no apparent "point".
The comment was made under the topic of "Ryder Sits; Younger Kostitsyn to play on first line". The thread came in between the loss to the Bolts & the impending Flyers encounter.
I wanted to make a point of the Habs lack of intestinal fortitude using a word that begins with B and ends in LLS. The last part of my post was stricken. I was a little surprised because I had previously read a thread created, I believe, by Mr Boone which suggested the Habs reach down into their jocks & feel for their contents.
I guess that when you're the "boss" you can do and say as you please.
Keep fighting the good fight, albeit, more carefully.
Submitted by jibberjabber on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 15:54.
The best part of the game last night was at the first period break when komisarek was interviewed by Elliote Friedman (what a tool) and the interview was over he walked away and te camera stayed on him and Jean Beliveau was coming the opposite way and they had a really frank handshake. As if Le gros Bill was still one of the boys.
it was awesome, gave me chills.
Then Komi pounded the Leafs in the boards for the rest of the night.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 20:20.
thanks.,..thats the kind of inside info we like to hear.
---------
until the problem in my picture is solved...we will not be Champions.
TORONTO MUST BE DESTROYED....
Submitted by habsguy on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 15:30.
well you finally came around, I knew I could do it.!!!!!...I'm proud of myself !!!!
Submitted by Girth on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 13:30.
Anyone who has ever tried to moderate a blog knows it is an and endless and thankless task... almost impossible.
IMHO the bar should be set quite high as to what constitutes an offense worthy of banishment. So far... I have not seen anything here that would meet that criteria.
Also ... I would move the "flag as offensive" link away from the "Reply" link to avoid having people clicking it by mistake.
Submitted by Cdnman1 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 13:09.
This is my post from Saturday afternoon. "I predict that the Habs will put a spanking on the Leafs."
Now how was that for a spanking?!
Paul Marice has no class! His team was outclassed last night. Blaming Kostitsyn for the injury to McCabe is pathetic. Here is a quote "It's not a natural thing, it's not like getting hit into the boards where you can recover, but when you get hog-tied around the throat and you go back into the boards that's just brutal," I think Marice is brutal!
Great game. Go Habs go!
Number 25 in 2009
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 16:44.
Pretty good Cdnman1... but not as good as my post where I PREDICTED A 4-1 WIN!
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by Habs-Fan-In-KY on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 13:57.
I will agree with TSN that is was a win against a tired oppenent. AN OPPONENT IS TIRED OF GETTING BEAT BY THE HABS!!!!
Submitted by Habs-Fan-In-KY on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 14:06.
We'll chat again cournoyer12! I think you and I think alike. Nasty weather up there yes, here in Kentucky? No, just a lot of rain over the weekend. Wish we had the snow....just not all of it :)
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 18:17.
I looooove the snow!
Submitted by Habs-Fan-In-KY on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 13:48.
Wow, Maurice has lost my respect as a fair judge of character. In no way was injury on the mind of Kostitsyn. That being said, I was surprised things didn't get chippy after that hit. Overall, the game was very mild from a physical aspect. No fights or roughing calls.
I just hope we continue this style of play and not settle back into a defensive stalemat against Florida. If memory serves, we have lots of one goal games with this time.
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 12:39.
Dave,
Is it possible that you can repost the 'deleted' comment by Mr. Poisson?
As a way to get around the controversy. Is it possible that you can have a 'thumbs up' or thumbs down' ranking for that specific post to see what the consensus among posters is?
From my experience in the last two weeks reading Mr. Poisson's posts, I don't really see anything that was blatantly xenophobic or degrading to anyone else. He might be sarcastic, but that isn't a crime. However, I abide by your decision, although it would be nice to be able to review the post.
perhaps you can set up a small section on the site that shows examples of posts that will not be allowed? Showing a few examples probably will be more beneficial than just posting the rules IMHO.
for example,
1. naming the first line the KKK line is one example of something that shouldn't be posted, for obvious reasons.
2. Calling someone a racial epithet
3. Posting something along the lines of
"cournoyer12, you know nothing about hockey and you really need to improve your vocabulary"
is obviously not accepted as it is a personal attack (I trust Cournoyer12 understands I bear no animosity towards him, just providing an example :P)
Thank you.
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 17:11.
A good idea to move the "flag as offensive" opposite the "reply".
Also it would be great if next to the "flag as offensive" was a link with a little guidline as to what is acceptable. Above for example I wrote "BS".. which I doubt is a problem but it would be great to know if it is! Also common is to make the rarely used links lighter than the frequently used "reply" link. That way your eye drifts where it is supposed to.
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 18:18.
I love it actually :)
Geaux Habs!
Submitted by habsguy on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 12:21.
you know what would be really cool, If Kopitar could play goal, maybe he could help his team get out of the basement, after all his size and scoring haven't .....LOL
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 13:26.
ahahaha, I'm really not :P
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 18:19.
I always knew Price needed time. Just thought expectations for him were too high too soon, we need to relax. Maybe you got me confused with another poster?
Hahaha. I demand to see my post where I said Price wasn't good or all heck will break lose here!!!
LMAO
Submitted by LTHF on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 12:19.
Finally a 60 minute game, could sit and relax and feel comfortable that they were going to win. Now if they can show the same emotion and drive in future games, if they do , they will do very well.
BTW Timo were you at the game last nite, if not, there's an imposter on the loose!
Submitted by Leclerc1965 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 12:11.
Is it irony that this team looks so much better without Breezy, Smoke, and Lats in the lineup? Maybe Carbonneau reads our posts and decided to change this pathetic system he has this team stuck in. Changes? They finshed checks, they win faceoffs, they don't fall into a defensive "penalty kill posture" when the other team is in their defensive zone. He finally realizes that the forwards need to come out to challenge the opposing defencemen in their own zone which created turnovers and also helped their transition game. Why he had them collapsing down low when not even on a power play is beyond me. They played with heart as well as outhustled the Leafs to most of the loose pucks. Maybe it was just me but there wasn't as much dam line shuffling that we are use to seeing. It sure felt good to see the most obvious problems we have been having change.
Submitted by jibberjabber on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 15:51.
every time Breeze by is not in the line up we look better
Submitted by Naila Jinnah on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 11:39.
Seriously, that picture is awesome. It was hilarious live too!
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 11:35.
Suddenly I'm thinking less about a big forward... and more about the small holes we have to fill (an enforcer especially). It's the teams that get scoring from all four lines that are threats. And, though a big goal-scoring forward is still our most likely need down the road, we're high on skill and as some players have proved (Briere, St. Louis) little speedy guys totally have a place.
So here's a question for all you posters:
- if there IS interest in Ryder from Edmonton (or somewhere out west), do you let him go lightly for something like a 3rd round pick just so save the cap room?
My vote is yes - a decent, slightly skilled enforcer and Cap room may be all this team should look for right now. The cap room of course in case we look like we can make a real playoff run, or just for heading into next year. Well, there is one other thing we need... but I would NEVER wish that someone's injuries take six or seven months to heal. lol
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by habsgod on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 14:29.
well if the oilers want to part wit raffi torres for ryder then lets do it!!he's the kind of gritty scrappy third line guy we need!!and he can produce offence too!!
Submitted by Leclerc1965 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 12:13.
I still think we need a big forward though. We need that guy who can stand in front of the net whether on the power play or just to jam the front of the net. Someone who can occupy a defenceman and create screens because we do take so many shots from the point.
Submitted by habsguy on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 11:02.
Drive_4_25...yes you're probably right, although if Price keeps playing the way he is right now, he could make it interesting....all in all though, I'm happy we took him instead of Kopitar..
Submitted by Habsrule1 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 10:09.
Only 4-1...!?!
Fire Carbo!!
LOL
Go Habs Go!!
Habsrule
Submitted by Hobie Hansen on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 09:58.
I would by lying if I said I wasn’t a bit nervous about a positive outcome for Montreal prior to last night’s game against the Leafs. It seemed as the Leafs were on the rise and Montreal’s inability to sign a big forward over the summer was catching up to them.
However, guys like Price, Komisarek, and Chipchura are making the Canadiens look real good at the draft table the past number of years. Komisarek has quickly become the team’s physical and emotional leader on the blue line and Chipchura is also grabbing the bull by the horns and developing into an awesome face off, penalty killer and shut down guy, in rapid fashion.
And nothing has to be said about Price except that Huet, who’s done a fantastic job, can be moved anytime to bolster our group of forwards.
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 09:43.
LAST NIGHTS GAME SHOWED...
1. The Tremblay era is finally behind us. These Habs rock! I'm not saying we're contenders, just that for the first time in over 10 years we have a rounded, and talented team that should be feared on its own merits - not because of one or two game-stealers.
2. There is a god - or Santa Claus or something. To knock both Breezer and Slowinski out and have the replaced with talented youngsters. I could never imagine such luck.
3. Paul Maurice is not a class act. Thought he was. I guess being in Toronto, he's learning to whine when things don't go right.
4. Price is the real deal. I know everyone else said that in September, but last night to me he arrived. He made it all look so easy - you can tell he's getting better and that the November experience hasn't rattled him.
5. Hamrlik is a star. He gets so little credit but does so much. Speaking of unheralded talent, Chipchura too doesn't get enough credit. He had FIVE take-aways last night, and won 73% of his face-offs. He's turning into quite the warrior for us.
6. Carbo is learning.... winning obviously looks better on him than losing, but he seems more humble, more appreciative of his team, and in this case - the win.
7. And finally - on a good day even the Hamilton Bulldogs can beat the Laffs!!!
Go HABS!! RUF!! RUF!!
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by mjames on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 10:13.
Good post. Let's hope Carbo continues to let this team run. The more they play like that the more confidence they will have. I am very pleased with the youth we have on this team. These kids are really playing. They deserve to stay up and play here. Some of the vets like Simolinski, Brisebois and Begin are going to have to sit. If not Gainey maybe trades them for some draft choices. I know Begin has some value.
mjames
Submitted by linp on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 11:00.
Or get a fighter to protect our skill players in case of need.
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 11:26.
I agree with both of you. It seems an enforcer and a little cap room may be the best move right now.
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by downeast hab on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 08:22.
Did anyone see the article paul maurice said about the mccabe incident. he said that ak grabbed mccabe by the throat and threw him to the boards. I think maurice needs new glasses.sour grapes.
Submitted by G-Man on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 07:13.
Here's a cheer for the Habs first 60 minute game in 2 months. Solid checking, first to the puck all night and 4 goals. Okay, 2 were lucky, making up for all those goal posts the Habs tend to hit. Yes, the Habs are on a positive streak. Let's hope the collapse of last year doesn't recur. The 23rd of December is not far away!
Gilbert
Submitted by habsguy on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 07:04.
I for one am sure happy we took Price in the draft ahead of players like Kopitar. Pricehas a good shot at rookie of the year. Sure it would have been nice to have some size, but EVERYONE knows you build from the goal out !
Submitted by Drive_4_25 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 09:35.
I too LOVE PRICE, but I'm afraid that rookie of the year is going to CANE of Chicago!
"God is a HABS fan whose still pissed at the ROY trade!!!"
Submitted by The Cat on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 06:34.
What a great game. Superb team effort. When we can dictate with our speed and can maintain a certain amount of confidence, we can beat anybody. Kovalev is great. Give that man all the ice he can handle, he can carry this team, and more importantly, he wants to do it.
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 09:33.
True , but i think we'll save that extra ice time for Kovy for the playoffs.
Submitted by johnmanw on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 05:38.
I gotta say, obviously first great game. But also, great that Koivu scored some, after yesterdays press conference where he was hoping for a goal he gets two, gotta love him. Hope the rumours aren't true, he's the heart of our team, even if he's not scoring so much this year.
And Price, love the kid, he's so young and so level headed, it's great, Huet is still number one in my books, that guy will stand on his head for the team. Hope he makes into the lineup soon.
Submitted by A. Berke on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 04:41.
Everyone in the team did their job admirably well.
Way to go Habs.
This is a wonderful feeling and a great (early) Christmas gift. Hope more of the same are on the way.
Cheers,
Ali B.
Submitted by Timo (not verified) on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 03:59.
I don't now folks... to me Koivu looked like he knows that he's been traded and was playing his last game for the habs. Even though he looked awesome tonight, scoring these 2 goals, there was an air of indifference from him.
Great game. Way to outskate the leafs. Go Habs! Hope if Koivu goes we are going to get a big strong power forward in return.
Keep Kost. jr. on the Koivu line. The line is clicking and takes a huge load of Kovalev's line.
Submitted by mrstewart61 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 15:03.
How can you see that in a person? I can't tell what he thinks. Can you give me the lotto numbers for next week? :)
Submitted by Big Bird on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 12:00.
Koivu has a no-trade clause and has said he has no intenetion of leaving Montreal. I don't think we need worry about Saku being traded. Perhaps on the first goal he was 'ho-hum' (according to Don Cherry) but on the second one he seemed quite pleased when he embraced Higgins...
Submitted by Smart Dog on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 17:03.
And the first goal was a 'ho-hum' goal. Went in off a skate. Koivu is classy about things like that... sure his hard work made it happen, but it was accidental. I think Koivu actually feels a little silly about getting excited when that happens unless it's a game winner or something.
________________________________________________________________
Be happy! At least the FUTURE looks bright!
Plekanec, Higgins, Komi, Chips, Lapierre, O'Byrne, K1 &K2, Price
Submitted by Robert L on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 03:39.
There is an old saying - when you are going through hell, keep going - that might sum up the Habs last month.
Last night Habs supporters may have seen encouraging signs once again. It do not believe it to be an illusion.
Patience and vision are required. Enjoy the unfurling dividends as better days are upon us.
http://wwwrealitycheckeyesontheprize.blogspot.com/2007/12/habs-near-perf...
Submitted by P St. Pierre on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 03:34.
Great game by the Canadiens. Price was awesome, every line seemed fast and the Captain played like a true warrior. The first period was kind of close but after that the Habs dominated this one.
One player who doesn't get nearly enough respect is Roman Hamerlik. This guy is a very good defenseman and his offensive instincts are also sound. He can be mean, he can hit, he's not afraid of anyone and he knows how to move the puck out his own zone. He's the perfect compliment to a young defenseman like O'Byrne (who looked good again tonight). I'm loving his game this season.
The Kostitsyn brothers are so fun to watch. Andrei Kostitsyn has a great shot and a good work ethic. Putting him with Kovalev and Plekanec is definantly the right way to help him develop his offensive game.
Sergei Kostitsyn has such great speed and vision, its a pleasure to watch him work. The way that he and his linemates cycled in Toronto's end was just awesome to see. These two are going to be very good hockey players and hopefully they stick with this team for a long time. I'm so excited for the future of the organization.
Submitted by Bouleau noir on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 02:48.
Well our team had a soul tonight, such cohesion, everyone looked great, a solid performance and one of our better game so far this season.
S.Kostsitsyn, O'Byrne, Lapierre,... here is a package that really enhance our team's profile for the better.
S.Kost is a 7th round pick, fairly light and really young,... yet he makes our team so much better,... incredible.
Dont forget, Koivu's line received a standing ovation after one of their shift during the game tonight,.. very unusual stuff in the NHL,.. no goal was scored yet the fans roused of their seats to applaud the shear brilliance they had just witnessed during a shift in which those 3 players had taken control of the leaf's territory for an unusually long period of time..... bravo to the fans for cheering and celebrating that moment.... it was our best offensive capsule yet this season.
There is now a real possibility that our team can now count on having two top lines that will be able to produce on a regulard basis,... this will be new if it happens and I believe that it will.
With our offensive prowess being improved Carbo will feel more secure and will probably somewhat alter our regular 5on5 game plan in order to take advantage of our new found strength,... our 4 goals tonight were scored while playing at evenstrength.... imagine that !
I love this kid, I love our top 2 lines and I feel really good about the team as a whole right now,... the best in our season is most likely to come yet.
Submitted by Bob Barker on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 04:46.
Well said. I love the Koivu, Higgins, SK74 line. They were cycling the puck so well. You could definitely see the chemistry. It's awesome for this kid to come in and have such a positive impact so soon.
Submitted by Shiloh on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 01:38.
Sergei Kostitsyn was very impressive - checking, passing...even hitting! He has a tremendous upside. I love when Latendresse isn't playing - we actually have NHL-calibre players on every line when he sits out. He needs at least a year in Hamilton.
I haven't seen Maurice's rant. He should be mad - think of all the money they wasted on getting the zebras to ignore their penalties. The Habs won anyway. The Loafs are a sick organization with old plodders. McCabe being injured will improve their defence.
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 09:24.
Your 100% right about Lats needing big time ice time in Hamilton , for his own future.
Submitted by Shiloh on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 13:01.
Can you imagine we sat Andrei Kostitsyn a few times this year instead of Latendresse?
Submitted by habsguy on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:58.
Damn we sure looked fast tonight, the young guys were great and the Vets picked it up !!!
Submitted by Da Hema on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:47.
It doesn't get much sweeter than a Saturday Night Spanking of the Leaves, especially with the senilic Bob Cole and the mewling Greg Millen calling the game. I have access to all the NHL games televised around North America, and without any doubt the CBC English eastern crew that covers the Leaves is the absolute worst. It just goes to show how dopey Toronto fans are that they (willingly!) accept the garbage that CBC thrusts upon them.
Well done Les Boys!!
_________________________________________________________
"How would you like a job where, every time you make a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?"
--Jacques Plante
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 09:21.
Your right , it was like they have never seen the Habs before , talk about not doing their homrwork. Anyway Greg Millen is one puck shy of being a Glen Healy , Brutal.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:49.
AK HAS BEEN TARGETED...this is of concern... and should not be allowed. The NHL needs to intervene...otherwise our Organization will have to take matters to defend its players.
its time to solve my picture.
(what are we going to do when Belak and Bell go after AK?)
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=225315&hubname=nhl
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until the problem in my picture is solved...we will not be Champions.
TORONTO MUST BE DESTROYED....
Submitted by WindsorHab-10 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 01:03.
Paul Maurice has the nerve to talk about cheap shots when he coaches a lowlife like Darcy Tucker.
Submitted by Bob Barker on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:50.
complete BS. Maurice said AK "hogtied him around the throat and threw him into the board." That pisses me off. There was nothing wrong with that play, it was a race for the puck and two players collided. It's called hockey. It's unfortunate that McCabe was hurt but to blame AK is ridiculous.
Submitted by WindsorHab-10 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 01:07.
Paul Maurice is an idiot and a sore loser. Leafs are back on track to their usual losing ways, making excuses and WHINING. Their recent success had more to do with facing mediocre goaltending than it does with them playing well. Perhaps the calls for his firing will start picking up steam. No wonder they're the most hated team in the NHL.
Submitted by Renegade on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 03:33.
Maurice didn't expressly mention Andrei Kostitsyn (To my knowledge) in his post game interview.
However, I dislike seeing this type of negative speech utilized towards him, as I believe he is one of the better coaches in the league. The victories that the leafs have, and the solid style of play they can bring to the ice should be very much accredited to him.
It seems out of character for him to react in this manner, and I'm assuming it had something to do with him losing one of his most durable defensemen. I'm certain that any other coach would have reacted similarly, if not worse, than Maurice did in this case.
I dislike the Leafs just like anyone else, but respect should be given where it is due.
Submitted by Bouleau noir on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 14:56.
Maurice's statement about the incident is such a silly proposition,... a desparate descent into the world of trash talk and intimidation.
I had respect, but its now gone.
Submitted by mjames on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 08:57.
Sorry I am going to have to disagree with you. His comments were not disimilar to that which Crawford said to his team priot to the Bertuzzi hit on that Av player - Steve ?????. If something happens to AK47 when they next play the Leafs then the league should do something . i saw the replay and AK46 basically pushed his way past McCabe. There was no grabbing of the throat or anything. Kostitsyn barely hit him. If it had been dirty there would have been either a penalty or retaliation. Let the league review it they will reach the conclusion of every non leaf fan - unfortunate injury as it was fluke that McCabe banged his wrist on the boards.
mjames
Submitted by MEL FRIEND on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:24.
as long as montreal starts winning again bg is under no pressure to make a trade so all those rumors you are hearing about all those trades put it to rest also as soon brisbois is back o bryne will be sent back to hamilton i notice is ice time is getting lest every game.
Submitted by nightmare_49 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 09:12.
Why? Do you think we miss Breezer's muscle on the "D". O'Bryne ice time is just about right for now and is just about what Breezer's ice time should be and we only got in trouble when the ice time of the Breeze got up to 20 mins. Breezer needs to rest his bo bo a little longer. Gorges had a good game tonight as his confidence seems to be coming around and only had a few minor glitches to go along with his steady effort. I'm not a Breezer basher and i know what he brings and he just needs to keep it simpler to help the team , no more no less , and he must be 100% healthy to help this team as he is not exactly a great physical specimen to begin with and never tried to improve on that like Chelios did. He still can help this team if used right and controled and disciplined.
Submitted by The Teacher on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 13:27.
Breezer is as light as the snow falling today....
What muscle? LMAO
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:17.
PAUL MAURICE is ignorant.
He has declared WAR against A.K.
He is blaming AK for a vicious dirty play that broke McCabes hand in 3 places...CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT GUY?
it was a freak accident with McCabe twisting into the boards, sure the twisting was caused by AK but it was such a GENTLE PLAY its a JOKE.
Can't wait to hear what the Toronto Syndicate NHL passes down to the Canadiens, FInes and SUspension for AK coming up.
(a speedy recovery to McCabe)
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until the problem in my picture is solved...we will not be Champions.
TORONTO MUST BE DESTROYED....
Submitted by WindsorHab-10 on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 01:10.
I think Maurice is upset that the Hamilton Bulldogs beat his team.
Submitted by HabsFreak (not verified) on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:35.
Even Leaf fan Cherry said it was a freak accident....blaming the something along the boards. I'm sure Maurice is pretty upset of the fact he has lost one of his best D-man. In fact i'm sure every forward in the league is upset Mccabe is out :)
Submitted by Bob Barker on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:34.
Yeah I watched it several times. I still don't know what the hell Maurice is talking about. What a douche.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:43.
It unbelievable how a coach can declare war against a Player on such a harmless play compared to what we've seen these days...not to mention (but I always have to mention it.) KOIVUS EYE BEING TAKEN OUT...didn't hear BG talking like Maurice is talking...typical "world revolves around me" Leaf sh-t....come to think of it, wasn't it MAURICE behind the Carolina bench?
if so...then....
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until the problem in my picture is solved...we will not be Champions.
TORONTO MUST BE DESTROYED....
Submitted by Bill on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 09:24.
Maurice only looks smart because we see see him next to hockey players, referees, and journalists. Don't let the Poindexter glasses and hair fool you, this guy is no genius. A player on his team carves out someone's eye? Total accident, let's get over it. Kostitsyn bumps against McCabe and he somehow breaks a bone, well, that's a war. Forget about it. That's why some people call him the Space Cowboy, you know?
Submitted by habsgod on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:04.
dave the refs have to help toronto each and everytime we play them, man does that team(in toronto)sure gets away with alot of stuff!!i seen at least 8-9more penalties that should have been called!!but you just know that on hockey night in toronto with the leafs down in the game that they're not going to call anything unless it against us!!!i wonder how much the league pays the refs to call it one sided in toronto's favour!!the refing is brutual especially when they play us!!i.e first game of the year against those idiots from toronto,komisarek gets highsticked in the mouth and is cut by sundin!and no call!!why is this?!!!!gainey should break his mold of being passive and laid back when this happens again when we play toronto!andpull a schonfeld kick adoor off of the refs dressing room and go on a profanity laced tirade!!and i'll guarantee that the officiating will change whenthey play us!!gainey should us his excutive power as well and tell that ref i'll see to it that you'll never ref another game in this league!!watch betman and his cronies squirm if that ever happened!!!
Submitted by Shiloh on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 01:30.
Absolutely correct! The trip on Sergei Kostitsyn was incredibly blatant as were the holding and hooking non-calls. But of course, Koivu gets two minutes for being in proximity of one of the Loafs. Maurice is full of crap.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:08.
YOUR are CORRECT.
I wrote this yesterday:
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Fri, 12/14/2007 - 23:27.
We must stay out of the box...the "NHL Toronto NHL Refs syndicate" will do everything in its power to put us in the box and prevent us from having a powerplay....we are #1 in the league on the powerplay so its simple, prevent us from having a powerplay.
If we can beat this conspiracy we wil EASILY WIN.
STAY OUT OF THE BOX
SKATE HARD THERBY FORCING THEM TO TAKE PENALTYS.
at all other aspects we are a superior team, always have been and always will. We retire our #'s and they are not to be worn again....not like those FOOL IDIOTS.
TORONTO MUST BE DESTROYED.....
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until the problem in my picture is solved...we will not be Champions.
TORONTO MUST BE DESTROYED....
Submitted by framptunes on Sat, 12/15/2007 - 23:51.
WELL THAT WAS A VERY ENJOYABLE RESULT TONIGHT!!
SO FAR SO GOOD WITH REGARD TO THE INJURIES.ALL THE RIGHT PEOPLE INSTEAD OF ALL THE WRONG PEOPLE AS IN THE PAST FEW YEARS.
HOPEFULLY THIS LINEUP WILL BE TOGETHER FOR A FEW MORE GAMES TO COME YET BECAUSE IT LOOKS LIKE SOME GOOD RESULTS COULD BE PRODUCED FROM WHAT I SAW TONIGHT!!!!
Submitted by Peter Young on Sat, 12/15/2007 - 23:41.
Nice to see a veteran turn in a No. 1 game star performance a few days after Jean Beliveau called for the veterans to take responsibility for how the team does.
There is a long history of booing the home team in Montreal. The fans who attend games in Montreal are probably the most knowledgeable in hockey, and on occasion they let their displeasure be known. In the old days at the Forum the crowd was quick to pounce if it saw what it deemed lack of effort. I think it is their right, but I don't think it does any good, and it can do a great deal of harm--if younger players are targeted, for example.
But I could never boo the Montreal Canadiens. For me, the Canadiens uniform and team are inseparable from--inextricably intertwined with--the club's illustrious history. To me, it would be like booing Howie Morenz, Maurice Richard and all the other magnificent men who have worn the bleu, blanc et rouge. The players who wear the colours today are their heirs, their descendants, and they carry the torch handed to them by their forbearers. I just couldn't bring myself to boo them. I view the Canadiens as I view my family and friends. I don't boo or yell at my loved ones when they fail or do something wrong or stupid; I try to encourage them in a positive way.
Submitted by Ed on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 08:45.
Well written. You are a true fan, and I wish every fan & poster on HIO would read what you have written.
Submitted by HAB-PROFESSOR on Sat, 12/15/2007 - 23:59.
Well said.
It is an inherent advantage that we have and it is the responsibility of management to insure that the players become ensconced within that glorious past.
IT IS OUR ADVANTAGE.
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until the problem in my picture is solved...we will not be Champions.
TORONTO MUST BE DESTROYED....
Submitted by linp on Sun, 12/16/2007 - 00:12.
Toronto is being destroyed. Bryan McCabe broke his wrist in three places and will miss the next six to eight weeks.
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