coComments related to HFBoards

Quote:Originally Posted by RDr

2008-06-20T21:30:09.723+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by RDriesen16the latest from **Eklund**. Spezza, Vermette, Jokinen, Carter. no mention of Blue Jackets. http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=15770I take that as good news.

the latest from Eklund. S

2008-06-20T21:30:02.223+02:00

the latest from **Eklund**. Spezza, Vermette, Jokinen, Carter. no mention of the Blue Jackets. http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=15770

6 and Zherdev, maybe a + for

2008-06-20T21:29:31.389+02:00

6 and Zherdev, maybe a + for Marleau and Michalek 2nd/3rd for Umberger 19th, + for Vermette sign Green to an offer sheet Nash - Marleau - Modin Umberger - Vermette - Michalek Chimera - Malhotra/Brassard - Voracek ? - ? - Boll Hejda - Green/FA Klelsa/FA - Green/FA Methot - Russel/?

Quote:Originally Posted by err

2008-06-20T21:28:41.389+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by errey21Nash/Lombardi/Modin UFA/Vermette/Zherdev Chimera/Umberger/Voracek Novotny/Malhotra/FritscheUsing your same moves. what about this? Nash/Lombardi/Modin Umberger/Vermette/Zherdev Chimera/Malhotra/Voracek Fritsche/Brassard/Boll Manny and Brass could be switched but I'm not sure about playing Voracek and Brass on the same line. Could be dangerous having them together if they make rookie mistakes. Murray and Novotny fight it out for who gets to watch from the press box.

Quote:Originally Posted by RDr

2008-06-20T21:27:59.723+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by RDriesen16i still would be going after Vermette. i think he can be had for what "we" would deem(sp) a reasonable price if Ottawa is willing to move him.Im with you here. I dont know how Porztline thinks we keep our picks and get Umberger/Kubina????? How bout this, I would consider this a splash before free agency even opens 1. The 6 becomes the 7/Kubina because we get lucky and Toronto has to have whatever draftee is at 6. 2. We draft at 7 3. Trade the 19 and whatever sweetner Ottawa needs for Vermette. 4. Trade the 2nd to Philly for Umberger if thats enough???? Throw in Brule????? 5. Trade whatever for Lombardi. Portzline makes it sound like a salary dump on Calgarys part if they get Jokinen. Nash/Lombardi/Modin UFA/Vermette/Zherdev Chimera/Umberger/Voracek Novotny/Malhotra/Fritsche Then go get Campbell or Rozival or Liles and then go get Malone or Stillman and there we go.

Quote:Originally Posted by DJA

2008-06-20T21:27:14.723+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by DJAnimosityNew blog from Portzline: http://blog.dispatch.com/cbj/2008/06...essenger.shtml I'm not sure how he expects us to acquire Kubina AND keep the #6 and #19 picks. If we acquire Kubina, we're moving down to at least #7. I guess I could live with Lombardi and Umberger as the top 2 centers.I'd try Lombardi with Nash, AP's point about his speed and opening up the ice for Nash is valid. This team needs some open ice speed in addition to Zherdev. Don't even mention Chimera's run and dump game...

Quote:Originally Posted by Sam

2009-06-13T06:29:44.676+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by SamkowYou can't post blogs word for word. They go against copyright laws. Please Summarize them.I was told we can as long as we cite where they came from and we can't post the whole thing.

I hope he is right...we need p

2009-06-13T06:29:35.801+02:00

I hope he is right...we need pretty much everyone he has mentioned. Come on Howson...make me change my avi!

Honestly its a good day if we

2009-06-13T06:29:26.926+02:00

Honestly its a good day if we land Redden + If we land Redden, more will follow.

Quote: I've been told that the

2009-06-13T06:29:18.051+02:00

Quote: I've been told that the Blue Jackets will be in hot pursuit of "four or five" players as of 12:00:01 Tuesday. First is the phone calls, then out go the faxes with offers. My guess -- Redden, Morrison, Brooks Orpik, Kristian Huselius, Radim Vrbata. Maybe Niklas Hagman. Maybe Mike Commodore. Wait, that's seven.A guess. And, realistically, we're not signing them all. But I'd be okay with any of the first 6 names. Let's not waste our time on Commodore--get Finger instead at that point.

If you get Morrison and Huseli

2009-06-13T06:29:09.176+02:00

If you get Morrison and Huselius, the top six could look like this: Nash-Morrison-Huselius Modin-Umberger-Zherdev Not bad. That's more skill then we've ever had in the top six. Each line would have two defensively responsible players with one skill player.

You can't post blogs word for

2009-06-13T06:29:00.301+02:00

You can't post blogs word for word. They go against copyright laws. Please Summarize them.

I really hope we get Redden.

2009-06-13T06:28:51.426+02:00

I really hope we get Redden. And Huselius, Vrbata, and Roszival.

Thanks for posting that.

2009-06-13T06:28:42.551+02:00

Thanks for posting that.

Quote:Originally Posted by Kev

2009-06-13T06:28:33.676+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by Kev22Any chance you could post the content for those of us who aren't able to read blogs at work?Here's the most interesting part: Quote:The Blue Jackets will take a major swing at defensemen Wade Redden. Not saying they'll get him, but they'll make a hell of an offer. -- I've been told that the Blue Jackets will be in hot pursuit of "four or five" players as of 12:00:01 Tuesday. First is the phone calls, then out go the faxes with offers. My guess -- Redden, Morrison, Brooks Orpik, Kristian Huselius, Radim Vrbata. Maybe Niklas Hagman. Maybe Mike Commodore. Wait, that's seven.Ditto, I'm happy with any of these guys.

Quote:Originally Posted by Jru

2009-06-13T06:28:24.801+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by JrussJacket http://blog.dispatch.com/cbj/ New update... Ill be happy with any of those guys! Any chance you could post the content for those of us who aren't able to read blogs at work?

http://blog.dispatch.com/cbj/ New update... Ill be happy with any of those guys!

Quote:Originally Posted by MJ-

2009-06-13T06:27:51.667+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by MJ--A--NI really like your avi DSL, but given the current goings-on, a time-lapse image of that same parking lot getting more and more empty would have blown my mind. Wow. That is a scary image conjured up. Kick every tire (that's left)

Quote:Originally Posted by Dou

2009-06-13T06:27:43.975+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by Double-Shift LassÃ©I suggested this with regards to Hossa once he announced he was done negotiating with the Pens. I agree. Show something.I really like your avi DSL, but given the current goings-on, a time-lapse image of that same parking lot getting more and more empty would have blown my mind.

Quote:Originally Posted by DJA

2009-06-13T06:27:36.283+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by DJAnimosityIs he sitting on his own hands, or Priest's hands?Eew Quote:Originally Posted by Kev22Probably sitting on his hands in Priest's lap. Eew

Quote:Originally Posted by DJA

2009-06-13T06:26:46.926+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by DJAnimosityThe latest from Eklund: Would you be happy with Morrison, Bertuzzi, Roszival, and Mara? I'd be pleased with all but Big Bert.If they sign Bert I am heretofore an ardent Red Wings/Preds fan. I don't want him on the team, period.

Quote:Originally Posted by for

2009-09-21T17:53:40.658+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by forktieI was talking to a guy from Edmonton last year, and he is in med school. He says he plans on practicing in Canada and not the US because even if the money isn't as good, it is much safer for him as far as frivilous malpractice lawsuits and that sort of thing. Is that true?Canadian society is less litigious in general, so I have no doubt that malpractice insurance is less expensive than it is in the US.

Quote:Originally Posted by Ohi

2009-07-22T19:17:28.709+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by Ohio JonesDoing a search through recent posts, there's not a lot of love pouring out for Dan Fritsche (putting it mildly). I gather his performance to date has disappointed? Statistically he seems to be doing quie well for a 22-year-old. Was he rushed? Were expectations on him too high because he's a local product? Do his shoulder problems limit his potential? What's the scoop?Dan either 1. Does not bring any consistent effort to the ice. or 2. Does not get on ice oppurtunities on a regular basis to be consistent. More than likely its a little of each. Their are nights where he is my favorite Jacket, but their are many nights that I don't even notice him on the ice(sometimes because he's not out there for more than 8 minutes).

Quote:Originally Posted by for

2009-05-22T20:41:16.760+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by forktieI was talking to a guy from Edmonton last year, and he is in med school. He says he plans on practicing in Canada and not the US because even if the money isn't as good, it is much safer for him as far as frivilous malpractice lawsuits and that sort of thing. Is that true?I can't speak for the Canadian governmental health care system but I can speak for the U.S. version, in the Department of Veteran Affairs physicians liabilty is paid for by the taxpayer.

I was talking to a guy from Ed

2009-03-22T21:05:04.811+01:00

I was talking to a guy from Edmonton last year, and he is in med school. He says he plans on practicing in Canada and not the US because even if the money isn't as good, it is much safer for him as far as frivilous malpractice lawsuits and that sort of thing. Is that true?

I know there were educated Can

2008-12-13T18:05:13.768+01:00

I know there were educated Canadians, I just wonder why they couldn't break into good management and engineering positions.

When I was working, I had to d

2008-10-12T17:56:47.742+02:00

When I was working, I had to do some trouble shooting for Northern Telcoms manufacturing problems. What I found interesting was most of management was from England and the engineers wore Turbans. Mostly from India, I think. Wondered what the canadians did.

Quote:Originally Posted by Rob

2008-09-21T06:28:29.502+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by RobertIsn't MacLean a fairly common name in Canada?Sure is, in Canada and anywhere else the Scots emigrated when they got turfed off their land to make room for more English sheep. These days Canadians are just as likely to be named Chen or Singh, which suits me fine too, as it does most Canadians not named Donald S. Cherry (who, for all we all like to make fun of him, is actually a real peach of a guy, and great in the community). Of course, judging from recent developments in the US presidential race, America may joining Canada in the idea that not everyone needs to be named "Smith" or "Jones" (or "Bush" or "Clinton"...). Good for you. Quote:Originally Posted by Robert He doesn't have many fans left around here, part of me thinks we may have done better with your Grandma running the show...XGMDM (as I've seen him branded on this forum) is from PEI; my MacLean connection is from Nova Scotia (home of Stanley Cup also-ran Sidney Crosby); the two provinces are cheek-by-jowl, so it's not impossible that there's a family connection. Don't worry, though, I don't think I'll be considered for a front-office job with the Jackets any time soon.

after i posted that i kinda th

2008-06-05T21:06:38.302+02:00

after i posted that i kinda thought maybe indiana jones played into it somehow

Quote:Originally Posted by Dou

2008-06-05T21:06:28.302+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by DougKnowsBestya you really nailed it on the head, and thanks for the kind words. for the sake of discloser, I'm a keep fritsche guy. but Ohio Jones? you from ohio, why did you pick that screen name? I'm the GM of the Blue Jackets in the HFNHL, Hockey's Future's FHL sim league. I was also a huge fan of Raiders of the Lost Ark as a kid. The choice was obvious. (Also in the interests of disclosure, I should warn you that my name is Douglas, and my grandma's maiden name was MacLean... ).

I've grown to like Fritsche in

2008-06-05T21:06:18.302+02:00

I've grown to like Fritsche in the last season. Prior seasons, we nicknamed him "spaz", much in the way Boll played this season... wreckless and usually missing targets, flopping all over. Most likely a first year reckless energy. Fritsche learned how to harness it better and to learn to rely on some of his skill and smarts and that really helped his performance, IMO. I hope we are able to keep him, but I think he's got some potential other teams may find enticing for a trade.

ya you really nailed it on the

2008-06-05T21:06:08.302+02:00

ya you really nailed it on the head, and thanks for the kind words. for the sake of discloser, I'm a keep fritsche guy. but Ohio Jones? you from ohio, why did you pick that screen name?

Quote:Originally Posted by Ohi

2008-06-05T21:05:38.302+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by Ohio JonesThanks. Took a wander through that (quite extensive, and entertaining!) thread, and this is what I gleaned: For the most part, fans appreciate Dan's energy, commitment and (to varying degrees) his potential. They recognize that he may develop into a top-6 player, but he isn't there yet, and the sense from most is that this team needs to improve sooner than later. If he could be dealt in a package that would return a higher calibre of player for the coming season, they'd be for it, but if they could get that deal giving up someone other than Dan, they'd prefer that (mostly, it seems, because of the local connection than because of anything he offers on the ice). All fair enough. For my part, I'd be loathe to trade him. From the tapes I've seen, he's a big-bodied kid whose development, granted, was slowed with injuries, but who seems to be coming more into his own of late. He skates hard, he finishes checks, he blocks shots, and has better hands than perhaps his role or his linemates could really showcase. Plus he seems to be really smart - makes good decisions, positions well in all three zones, and seems eager to learn. I gather he has some leadership quaalities as well - impresive from a 22-year-old. I think he could be from Mars and still be of real long-term value to Columbus, but it's sure a nice bonus that he's from Parma. Basically, it would have to be a VERY sweet deal to get me to agree to move him. I'd rather see the Jackets give him a shot back at center where he belongs, let him move betwen the second and third lines so he gets some time with skilled players, put him on the second PP (he could even play point with that big shot), and PK units, and I think you'll see more of that potential come to the fore this season. A careful conditioning program this summer should help both with his injuries and his effectiveness on the ice as he matures, and he seems to have the right attitude to do the necessary work. One more thing I gleaned from my brief foray into Jackets land: there are some very fine, eloquent, knowledgeable and above all devoted posters on this board! Kudos to you - your team is on its way, and you deserve it for the loyalty you've shown over the years. Good luck at the draft! (PS - in case you're curious, I'm a hockey fan first, a Leafs fan second. I live outside Toronto, my HF nickname nothwithstanding. I trust you won't hold it against me! )Stop back...

I agree, he's still one of my

2008-06-05T21:05:28.302+02:00

I agree, he's still one of my favorites but a guy that we can live without if trading him would improve our team. He's never going to be better than a thid line player, if that. But darn I like the energy and hussel he brings to the team. As for the Ohio connection, that's neat and all but in the end should not be a consideration in keeping him or trading him.

Thanks. Took a wander through

2008-06-05T21:05:18.302+02:00

Thanks. Took a wander through that (quite extensive, and entertaining!) thread, and this is what I gleaned: For the most part, fans appreciate Dan's energy, commitment and (to varying degrees) his potential. They recognize that he may develop into a top-6 player, but he isn't there yet, and the sense from most is that this team needs to improve sooner than later. If he could be dealt in a package that would return a higher calibre of player for the coming season, they'd be for it, but if they could get that deal giving up someone other than Dan, they'd prefer that (mostly, it seems, because of the local connection than because of anything he offers on the ice). All fair enough. For my part, I'd be loathe to trade him. From the tapes I've seen, he's a big-bodied kid whose development, granted, was slowed with injuries, but who seems to be coming more into his own of late. He skates hard, he finishes checks, he blocks shots, and has better hands than perhaps his role or his linemates could really showcase. Plus he seems to be really smart - makes good decisions, positions well in all three zones, and seems eager to learn. I gather he has some leadership quaalities as well - impresive from a 22-year-old. I think he could be from Mars and still be of real long-term value to Columbus, but it's sure a nice bonus that he's from Parma. Basically, it would have to be a VERY sweet deal to get me to agree to move him. I'd rather see the Jackets give him a shot back at center where he belongs, let him move betwen the second and third lines so he gets some time with skilled players, put him on the second PP (he could even play point with that big shot), and PK units, and I think you'll see more of that potential come to the fore this season. A careful conditioning program this summer should help both with his injuries and his effectiveness on the ice as he matures, and he seems to have the right attitude to do the necessary work. One more thing I gleaned from my brief foray into Jackets land: there are some very fine, eloquent, knowledgeable and above all devoted posters on this board! Kudos to you - your team is on its way, and you deserve it for the loyalty you've shown over the years. Good luck at the draft! (PS - in case you're curious, I'm a hockey fan first, a Leafs fan second. I live outside Toronto, my HF nickname nothwithstanding. I trust you won't hold it against me! )

While Fritsche still has alot

2008-06-05T21:05:08.302+02:00

While Fritsche still has alot to show me (and everybody else) I think he really improved on the puck this year.. he seems stronger. I see Danny as a Kirk Maltby type player. Quick, gritty and role playing. More about eating up minutes and keeping the puck in the offensive zone than alot of flash and dash. We shall see. He could easily end up as a throw-in addition to a deal this summer

Quote:Originally Posted by Ohi

2008-06-05T21:04:58.302+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by Ohio JonesDoing a search through recent posts, there's not a lot of love pouring out for Dan Fritsche (putting it mildly). I gather his performance to date has disappointed? Statistically he seems to be doing quie well for a 22-year-old. Was he rushed? Were expectations on him too high because he's a local product? Do his shoulder problems limit his potential? What's the scoop?I think Fritsche has done okay and still has some upside. I'm not sure if anyone here is truly anti-Fritsche. I’ve defined him in the past as being good enough to have value, but not good enough to be untouchable. Doesn’t mean you kick him out the door, but if he can be used to make the team better, then I think that’s something to be considered. He has a very dedicated following though that have very strong feelings. Come back and visit and I’m sure you’ll see them.

http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=515825 Recent discussion of Danny, on whom opinion is decidedly mixed. I should know, as I'm on all sides at once.

Doing a search through recent

2008-06-05T21:04:38.302+02:00

Doing a search through recent posts, there's not a lot of love pouring out for Dan Fritsche (putting it mildly). I gather his performance to date has disappointed? Statistically he seems to be doing quie well for a 22-year-old. Was he rushed? Were expectations on him too high because he's a local product? Do his shoulder problems limit his potential? What's the scoop?

Quote:Originally Posted by con

2009-06-13T04:02:48.238+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by contingent_23Hitch had a shot to be the GM... He didn't want it. Make no mistake, Hitch has more say in personnel decisions then most coaches in the league. Hell, if Hitch wanted MacLean to stay, he'd still be here. Thats how much pull this guy has.I doubt that.

That Slovak Hossa is quite the

2009-06-13T04:02:40.226+02:00

That Slovak Hossa is quite the player, he'd look good in blue right?

Quote:Originally Posted by cbj

2009-06-13T04:02:32.214+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by cbjgrandviewHitch's record post lockout in the "new"* NHL. 108-97-29, a .462 winning percentage Prelockout record in the "clutch and grab"* NHL. 362-195-88, a .561 winning percentage *Not thrilled with those terms but for the sake of this dicussion they'll suffice. Hitch's defensive first philosophy has not translated under the "new" NHL. His inability to adapt has left our team with having to struggle to score enough. The Jackets have trouble on most nights just scoring 3 goals. The team seems so hell bent on not being caught out of postition that it rarely tries to create turnovers, and therefore leads to less offensive chances. That being said I don't want to get rid of Hitchcock, I just wish he would adapt because dumping and chasing 75% of the time, and rarely scoring over 3 goals a night is not a plan for success. The team needs a strong defensive showing but not at the expense of scoring goals, which is after all, how you win games by scoring more than the other team. I know that there are certain players are also at fault for not scoring up to expectations which is why Hitch cannot take full responsibility. Hitch's experience, knowledge, and accountability make him a solid coach. But, if he can't adapt than Howson should be ready to make a move if results to not come.I think when we have only Nash and Zerdev, who scored, it`s difficult to await many goals . Players like Novotny, Peca or Malhotra are good for, maximum, third line but not for first or second line. I think he got chance Brass and Bru, and Lindstrom too. From begining of season. And not prefer some players in spite of bad achievments. But I very like Hitch and I am glad he is the coach of Columbus. But I prefer Slovak repre before Columbus and that`s why I would like to see him there .

There are only a few teams tha

2009-06-13T04:02:24.202+02:00

There are only a few teams that can make the playoffs without scoring more than 2.6 goals a night, and all of them have all star caliber goalies. I love Leclaire and the strides he made this season and I can only wish for continued improvement. Here are playoff teams that that scored less than 2.6 goals a game -Rangers 2.45 -Devils 2.37 -Ducks 2.36 *Common trait among them all star goaltending Playoffs teams that made the playoffs scoring less than 2.5 goals a game-3 NYR,NJD,ANA (Jackets by the way 2.29, which was 29th in the league) No team scoring less than the Jackets made the playoffs. Meanwhile, Playoff teams that gave up more goals against than the Jackets(which was 2.53, which was 9th best in the league)- 8 Pens, Habs, Avs, Preds, Flames, Caps, Flyers, and the Sens That's half the teams making the playoffs giving up more goals, while 3 of 16 make the playoff not scoring as much. Clearly it is more important to score than to be scored on, if the goal is to make the playoffs. The only caveat being that if LeClaire can stand on his head for another season, the Jackets may be able to withstand another season of lackluster offensive performance. Bottom line is that Hitch must use to talent Howson provides to create a team that can do better than 29th in the NHL in Goals Scored. Goals against are not as important as Goals for. So Hitch's system must be tweaked somehow to get more goals. Hitch can only work with what he has, I understand. So it is up to Howson to pull the trigger and get players that are comfortable carrying the puck. I also know you can't score when you don't have the puck jackets geek, so why is the team's offensive strategy the dump and chase, when it does nothing but tire out our players, and give the opponent the puck 60% of the time. Also, are we content with our 80 point season even if the first time to hit that level? As well, any coach can make the Canadian national team look good, they show up to any tournament and they are guaranteed a top 3 finish with the players they have. If the Jackets can make it into the 12-20 ranking in the league in goals scored we may have a playoff team on our hands, if the staus quo continues we have another rebuilding year to blame on XGMDM, unless LeClaire saves our season.

Quote:Originally Posted by Ric

2009-06-13T04:02:01.767+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by RickSIf I'm not mistaken, Philly's roster looks dramatically different now than when Hitch was fired. That could provide your answer.Thank you. I wasn't sure so thanks for clearing that up. Like I said, I've always liked Hitch, good coach and motivator and doesn't take a lot of crap from his players. I'd love to see him succeed here. I hate coaching carousels.

Funny. Before Hitch arrived,

2009-06-13T04:01:54.556+02:00

Funny. Before Hitch arrived, CBJ fans were screaming "We need structure! We need a system!" Hitch is here less than two seasons, and now there are cries of "He's stifling creativity! He's too defense-oriented!"

Quote:Originally Posted by cbj

2009-06-13T04:01:31.318+02:00

Quote:Originally Posted by cbjgrandviewHitch's defensive first philosophy has not translated under the "new" NHL. His inability to adapt has left our team with having to struggle to score enough. The Jackets have trouble on most nights just scoring 3 goals. The team seems so hell bent on not being caught out of postition that it rarely tries to create turnovers, and therefore leads to less offensive chances. Once again..... Hitch's 'defensive first philosophy' isn't responsible for our 'scoring woes'. First, the philosophy isn't about trying to keep them from scoring. He professes stopping them from getting past our blue line and getting it out when they do get past. You can't score when you don't have the puck! Second, as a team, the CBJ scoring dropped 8 - EIGHT - goals over last year. In the mean time our goals against dropped by 41. A net improvement of 33 goals. If you go back to the Galant year of 2005-06 it dropped 30 goals, while our GA dropped 71 goals. A net improvement of 41! We were getting our a$$e$ handed to us on most nights...not last year. There were 2 or 3 embarrassments, as opposed to 15 shutouts (or whatever the record is that we now hold.) And, regarding those 8 goals (or even the 30 goals), had Modin and Vyborny had a normal year...end of discussion. Third, on an individual basis, if the players are worried about playing defense rather than offense, how do we explain that Rick & Nick had career scoring years while undoubtedly improving their defensive skills? Enough of this talk already...

I love the guy, he just needs

2009-06-13T04:01:23.306+02:00

I love the guy, he just needs some tweaks on offense, less dump and chase, and more carry the puck into the zone.

Hey, I'd love to see a free fl

2009-06-13T04:01:15.294+02:00

Hey, I'd love to see a free flowing offense. I don't want to see it with Jiri Novotny, Mike Peca, and Manny Malhotra playing on the top lines. The defensive system kept a team with 2 (count 'em again! TWO!) top 6 players in the playoff race for a long time. The team's best puck moving Defensmen was some guy named Ronald Hainsey, too. You play with what you have, not with what you wish you had.

Get Hitch some grocieries off

2009-06-13T04:01:07.282+02:00

Get Hitch some grocieries off the premium rack and then lets see kind of cooking he can do. I think a lot of people are forgetting that Hitch had this team (many here who said they woudln't even compete) in the playoff picture all the way up until the deadline. Both the Jackets and Colorado were 5 points out at that time but going in much different directions. Colorado knew their window was closing and went for it. Howson knew ours was just starting to open but that was not the time to go for broke. He's in this for the marathon and not the sprint. Do you really think it would have been in the Jackets best interests to pull an Atlanta at the deadline - get swept in 4 games - and then wake up and realize we just pissed away 1/2 our future? Zherdev, Nash and Leclaire all had career years under Hitch. I would even say Klesla finally found his niche in this game under Hitch as well. This crap about Hitch not adapting is just that - crap. This franchise hit the 80 point mark for the first time ever and was by far in more games that it had ever been in. He played this team to its strenghts which was an tight checking everyone works for the goalie system. We did not have the skill to play any other way. Howson would be smart to extend him now because if he was allowed to move on you can bet he'd be snatched up just as quickly as ownership snatched him after Gallant was canned. Coaching, thankfully, is not one of our issues any longer and I'm with Skraut in that we need some stability there. Now is the time for Howson to improve his team and its no different than what many of us said last summer. Play out the year, evaluate, lets bad contacts expire and then make your moves. Time for Howson to earn his pay check.

Hitch is a great coach, howeve

2009-06-13T04:00:43.243+02:00

Hitch is a great coach, however he needs to learn that you have to score more than one goal per game to win. His defensive system is good enough to win in the playoffs, his offensive system is non-existant. When one of the best two-way players of all time says you're not allowed to be creative, that's a big problem. Mike Babcock's team is allowed to create offense. The Caps are allowed to create. If Hitch doesn't change his ways this team won't make the playoffs.