The World Series has pretty much what baseball fans and FOX want. It has the defending champs, it has the Yankees, who have not been to the Series since 2003, and it has a ton of hype. Now, in this post, I will examine each position for each team, and give who has the edge in it. I will only examine the starting and relief pitching, and the bench as a whole, finally, the intangibles both teams hold. The rest has a player by player examination. The pick comes at the very end, but I'm pretty sure you already know who I'm going to take.
Catcher
Carlos Ruiz vs. Jorge Posada
Both catchers handle the game incredibly well for both of their pitching staffs, and both handle the bat fairly well, and with throwing runners out, Ruiz holds a slight advantage, as Posada is older, so he can't get up and throw sooner. The only other difference is Posada's experience, as he has been a stalwart of the Yankees ever since their 1996 title, so he holds experience as an edge. But when it all comes down to it, it's a wash. Advantage: Even
First Base
Ryan Howard vs. Mark Teixeria
Both have some excellent power, and some good defense. Teixeria can hit for average as well, which makes him a better overall hitter. He also has better defense, as he can go all out and cover a lot of ground while making better throws. Howard has been so good as the postseason has gone on, and he had an 8 game RBI streak snapped in Game 5 of the NLCS. But, as a whole, Teixeria and the Yanks get the edge.
Second Base
Chase Utley vs. Robinson Cano
Utley did get a bit wild with his throws in the NLCS, but has managed to put that aside and come back to be an all around great defensive player. Utley has not performed as well offensively as he did in the regular season, but after this week off, he should bounce back. Cano is a young, talented second baseman, who has the skills to become a very good one, but isn't there yet. Give Utley and the Phils the edge at this position.
Shortstop
Jimmy Rollins vs. Derek Jeter
This is probably the hardest position to breakdown, as both are the unquestioned leaders of their teams, both just have intangibles that you can't gauge. Both have great defense, both come up with huge hits at huge times. So, this is pretty much a washout.
Advantage: Even
Third Base
Pedro Feliz vs. Alex Rodriguez
This is where the teams differ the most, and its easy to see why. Just look at the names, and the salaries. Rodriguez is the most complete player, as he has power to all fields, can steal bases, field well, and makes the smart decisions. Rodriguez has also gotten over the playoff woes which have haunted him throughout his career. Feliz's pretty much only advantage is that he is a better fielder that Rodriguez.
Advantage: Rodriguez and the Yanks by a long shot
Left Field
Raul Ibanez vs. Johnny Damon
If this was last year, when Pat Burrell was in left for the Phillies, this would be going towards the Yankees, but alas, when the Phillies signed Raul Ibanez to a three year deal, a lot of folks worried, but Ibanez has been stellar, with 30 homers, 90 RBI, and above average defense. Damon is only 35, but it seems to have taken much more of a toll on him than Ibanez, as he's slower, doesn't cover as much ground, and doesn't have as much power as Ibanez, it's close though.
Advantage: Ibanez
Center Field
Shane Victorino vs. Melky Cabrera
Both have great speed, both cover a ton of ground, both have pretty much the same power, so it's a wash basically.
Advantage: Even
Right Field
Jayson Werth vs. Nick Swisher
Swisher has been kinda like the class clown of the Yankees, keeping the team loose, and giving most of the Shaving Cream pies to his teammates. Swisher hasn't been all that good in the postseason though, batting under .200 without a homer. WErth, on the other hand, has been great in the postseason, making some good defensive plays, and hitting some long homers, taking over permanently for the departed Geoff Jenkins.
Starting Pitching
Both teams have some very good staffs, but the Yankees have a workhorse in CC Sabathia, who will pitch on 3 days rest yet again, pitching game 1, 4, and 7. Then, there is A.J. Burnett who has put up solid numbers in the first year of his contract, which is surprisng, since he has notoriously been a contract pitcher. Then, there is the winningest postseason pitcher of all time, Andy Pettite, and he has been dependable throughout this postseason, closing out both series. The Phillies have solid pitching as well, but nothing dominant, aside from Cliff Lee, the AL Cy Young award winner from last season, has produced a less than 1.00 ERA, and has been dominant in his 3 starts. The rest of the staff, is good, but noit great. They will need to step it up another notch to get the next title.
Advantage: Yankees
Relief Ptching
Both teams again have solid relievers, but the Phillies have had great middle relief comparitive to the Yankees, with Joba Chamberlain and Phil Hughes, who have given up a lot runs to the Angels. The Closer for the Yanks, Mariano Rivera, is only the best ever, so Brad Lidge can't live up to that.
Advantage: Phillies, slightly
Bench
The Yankees have brought out Brett Gardner as a pinch runner a lot, and then they have other speed guys in Jerry Hairston, Jr. and Freddy Guzman, then they have 2 other catchers, Jose Molina, and Francisco Cervelli, who are there as insurance policies, but they don't have much, and they're not built to have much, as they're an AL team. The Phillies have many options, with Eric Bruntlett, Greg Dobbs, Matt Stairs, and Paul Bako. Personally, I think power is a lot more important than speed, so take the Phils with the Bench.
Intangibles
Both teams are out for something. The Phillies are playing for their dead broadcaster, Harry Kalas, and are determined to win back to back titles for the first time since the Yankees, back in 99-2000. The Yankees are determined to win another title, and they just have the swagger, as they are hungry to win another title, as they haven't done so since 2000.
Advantage: Phillies
Managers
Charlie Manuel vs. Joe Girardi
Manuel and Girardi know a little bit about each other, as they both managed in the NL East in 2006, but a lot has changed since then. Manuel has won a title, and knows what he is doing in key situations, as he's very experienced, having managed for 7 years now. This is Girardi's 3rd year, and still has a tendency to overmanage the game. Look at ALCS game 3 for example, when he brought in another pitcher for no good reason.
Advantage: Phillies
Pick: Phillies in 6.
Monday, October 26, 2009
NBA Predictions
Although I'm not big into basketball, this is called the sports blog, I feel an obligation to do at least a prediction post on the Association.
Eastern Conference
Atlantic
1. Celtics
2. Raptors
3. Sixers
4. Nets
5. Knicks
Central
1. Cavaliers
2. Pistons
3. Bulls
4. Pacers
5. Bucks
Southeast
1. Magic
2. Hawks
3. Heat
4. Wizards
5. Bobcats
Western Conference
Northwest
1.Jazz
2. Nuggets
3. Blazers
4. Wolves
5. Thunder
Southwest
1. Spurs
2. Hornets
3. Mavericks
4. Rockets
5. Grizzlies
Pacific
1. Lakers
2. Warriors
3. Suns
4. Kings
5. Clippers
NBA Finals
Lakers vs. Celtics (assuming Celts healthy)
Eastern Conference
Atlantic
1. Celtics
2. Raptors
3. Sixers
4. Nets
5. Knicks
Central
1. Cavaliers
2. Pistons
3. Bulls
4. Pacers
5. Bucks
Southeast
1. Magic
2. Hawks
3. Heat
4. Wizards
5. Bobcats
Western Conference
Northwest
1.Jazz
2. Nuggets
3. Blazers
4. Wolves
5. Thunder
Southwest
1. Spurs
2. Hornets
3. Mavericks
4. Rockets
5. Grizzlies
Pacific
1. Lakers
2. Warriors
3. Suns
4. Kings
5. Clippers
NBA Finals
Lakers vs. Celtics (assuming Celts healthy)
Monday, October 12, 2009
MLB League Championship Series Preview/Predictions
With 3 of 4 Division Series ending in sweeps, it's kinda hard to gauge where these 4 teams are at. They dominated their opponents, so what does that mean now? Does that mean that these series will go longer, say 6 or 7 games? Or, does it mean that one team will have the upper hand? Can't wait to find out the answer, starting on Thursday night with the NLCS starting between the Dodgers and Phillies.
NLCS: Los Angeles vs. Philadelphia
Philadelphia had the only series which didn't go past three games. They also had a snow delay to force Game 3 to be pushed back into Sunday and Game 4 to finish on a Monday. That has screwed up their pitching schedule as well, which means either Cole Hamels, Joe Blanton, or Pedro Martinez will start Game 1 in L.A. Also, the big question about the Phillies, the bullpen, looked pretty good, espescially with Brad "blowup" Lidge not blowing up against the Rockies and their potent offense.
Conversely, with L.A., they looked solid all around, with 3 of their best hitters, Rafael Furcal, Andre Ethier, and Manny Ramirez going a combined 16 of 35. Also, the Dodgers proved me wrong with their starting pitching, as that looked stellar. Vicente Padilla, Clayton Kershaw, and Chad Billingsley all holding down the potent Cardinals offense, espescially holding down Matt Holliday and Albert Pujols. Then, holding down the fort in the ninth with his powerful imposing frame, Jonathon Broxton, not allowing much. L.A. is also looking for revenge from last season's 5 game knockout from the Phillies. But, the Phillies are dedicating this season to the memory of the longtime broadcaster, Harry Kalas, who was so close with the team. It's not easy for me to pick this matchup, but I'm also a homer, so go with the Phillies in 6.
ALCS: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. New York Yankees
Fox nearly got what they wanted, but they still have the Yankees who are bringing the biggest ratings, just puzzling why the ALCS starts on a Friday, typically one of the least watched nights of TV.
Both teams cruised through both of their series, as the Angels finally overcame Red Sox nation, and in a big way, sweeping them right out of the playoffs. The Angels also showed grit and determination by really handing it to Jonathon Papelbon, who previously never was scroed upon in the playoffs. L.A. is also coming in dedicating this season to Nick Adenhart who was killed by a drunk driver after his first victory, a shutout victory over the A's. So, they have that and a team unity and a determination to not only win it for themselves, as they haven't been to the Series since they won it in 2002. But, also for Adenhart whose family is getting his full share of his playoff bonus. As far as the actual players, Torrii Hunter, Vlad Guerrero, Erick Aybar, Chone Figgins, and the resurgent Bobby Abreu did an amazing job against the BoSox. Then, they've got the starting pitching, with Jered Weaver, John Lackey, and Scott Kazmir, who they got in a puzzling trade with the Rays.
Then, there is the Yankees, and their offense, where you cannot find an easy out anywhere in that lineup. Even with A-Fraud, Alex Rodriguez who exploded against the Twins, with a just under .500 average, 2 homers and 6 RBI. There is also the pitching, with 2 of the 3 big acquisitions over the offseson, CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett coming up big, not allowing more than 4 runs between the 2 of them. Then, they've got Andy Pettite, only the most dominant pitcher of the postseason, and Joba Chamberlain in game 4 is pretty much the only question mark. O, and to close it out, only the most dominant closer in his era, Mariano Rivera.
Pick: because I hate the Yankees, and I think the Angels will rally around Adenhart's death, take the Angels in 7.
This would make it a matchup of two teams who are playing for two very different people, the Phillies, playing for a legendary broadcaster, and the Angels, playing for a promising rookie pitcher. Look forward to 2 exciting series.
NLCS: Los Angeles vs. Philadelphia
Philadelphia had the only series which didn't go past three games. They also had a snow delay to force Game 3 to be pushed back into Sunday and Game 4 to finish on a Monday. That has screwed up their pitching schedule as well, which means either Cole Hamels, Joe Blanton, or Pedro Martinez will start Game 1 in L.A. Also, the big question about the Phillies, the bullpen, looked pretty good, espescially with Brad "blowup" Lidge not blowing up against the Rockies and their potent offense.
Conversely, with L.A., they looked solid all around, with 3 of their best hitters, Rafael Furcal, Andre Ethier, and Manny Ramirez going a combined 16 of 35. Also, the Dodgers proved me wrong with their starting pitching, as that looked stellar. Vicente Padilla, Clayton Kershaw, and Chad Billingsley all holding down the potent Cardinals offense, espescially holding down Matt Holliday and Albert Pujols. Then, holding down the fort in the ninth with his powerful imposing frame, Jonathon Broxton, not allowing much. L.A. is also looking for revenge from last season's 5 game knockout from the Phillies. But, the Phillies are dedicating this season to the memory of the longtime broadcaster, Harry Kalas, who was so close with the team. It's not easy for me to pick this matchup, but I'm also a homer, so go with the Phillies in 6.
ALCS: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim vs. New York Yankees
Fox nearly got what they wanted, but they still have the Yankees who are bringing the biggest ratings, just puzzling why the ALCS starts on a Friday, typically one of the least watched nights of TV.
Both teams cruised through both of their series, as the Angels finally overcame Red Sox nation, and in a big way, sweeping them right out of the playoffs. The Angels also showed grit and determination by really handing it to Jonathon Papelbon, who previously never was scroed upon in the playoffs. L.A. is also coming in dedicating this season to Nick Adenhart who was killed by a drunk driver after his first victory, a shutout victory over the A's. So, they have that and a team unity and a determination to not only win it for themselves, as they haven't been to the Series since they won it in 2002. But, also for Adenhart whose family is getting his full share of his playoff bonus. As far as the actual players, Torrii Hunter, Vlad Guerrero, Erick Aybar, Chone Figgins, and the resurgent Bobby Abreu did an amazing job against the BoSox. Then, they've got the starting pitching, with Jered Weaver, John Lackey, and Scott Kazmir, who they got in a puzzling trade with the Rays.
Then, there is the Yankees, and their offense, where you cannot find an easy out anywhere in that lineup. Even with A-Fraud, Alex Rodriguez who exploded against the Twins, with a just under .500 average, 2 homers and 6 RBI. There is also the pitching, with 2 of the 3 big acquisitions over the offseson, CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett coming up big, not allowing more than 4 runs between the 2 of them. Then, they've got Andy Pettite, only the most dominant pitcher of the postseason, and Joba Chamberlain in game 4 is pretty much the only question mark. O, and to close it out, only the most dominant closer in his era, Mariano Rivera.
Pick: because I hate the Yankees, and I think the Angels will rally around Adenhart's death, take the Angels in 7.
This would make it a matchup of two teams who are playing for two very different people, the Phillies, playing for a legendary broadcaster, and the Angels, playing for a promising rookie pitcher. Look forward to 2 exciting series.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
MLB Division Series Preview/Predictions
ALDS Twins/Yanks
Granted, I hate the Yankees, with a passion, they're my most hated team in all of professional sports, just barely nudging by the Cowboys for that slot, which makes sense they both went in on a business venture to support their combined 2 Billion dollar stadiums. That was a tangent and I apologize, but, what I was going to say. I hate the Yankees, but you can't discount their record this season, holding the best record in all of MLB. They have excellent pitching, and hitting, and defense. It seems like their onlky weakness could be starting pitching. But, even then they have Andy Pettite, who has one of the best playoff records ever, with CC Sabathia being a horse and Cy Young canidate. Then, they also have AJ Burnett, who hasn't stubnk this season surprisingly in the first year of a multi-year deal. Then, you have the Twins, who seem like its destiny for them to be the underdog and beat the Yankees. They have overcome a 9.5 game deficit entering the month of September, and then forced the Tigers to a tiebreaker, then got out of a bases loaded jam in the top of the 12th in that game to win. The Twins also have been decamated by injuries, including the loss of Justin Morneau, their All-Star first baseman, to overcome this. But, I just can't pick against the Yankees. Yanks in 4, giving the Twins one last win in the Metrodome.
ALDS Boston-L.A. Angels
The last few times these two met in the playoffs, the Sox have won easily. But, new seasons bring new results, I think. The Red Sox have not been playing too well the past few weeks, as they backdoored into the AL Wild Card. Their starting pitching has been suspect as of late, and they have not been too good of a hitting team lately. Which brings me to the consistency of the LA Angels, they have been just so consistent throughout the entire season, again winning their weak division early. The only question mark they have is Brian Fuentes, their closer. Fuentes has the second most blown saves of any closer in the postseason behind Brad Lidge. That's the only thing that Boston may have to win this series. Although Boston brings a new level of play to the postseason, I just don't see a victory here. LAA in 4.
NLDS Philly-Colorado
Rematch of the 2007 NLDS when Colorado was coming in on their tear of wins and being the runaway freight train that nobody could stop until the Red Sox did in the World Series. Granted, Colorado hasn't been on that big of a run, that late in the season. Colorado has been on that run since Jim Tracy took over as manager back on May 18. Colorado also has a better record than the Phils, which may give them an edge. However, the Phillies now have a lot more experience in the postseason and I think have better starting pitching. The Rockies also are without Jorge De La Rosa, who is out with a groin strain. De La Rosa is the hottest pitcher of the sumer, since June 4, he has 16 wins, which is a ton, imagine how many he'd have if he knew how to pitch before then. I think this series will go the distance, with the Phils pulling out despite their shaky bullpen.
NLDS St. Louis-L.A. Dodgers
Great series pitting two classic teams. Saint Louis is a great offensive team, who has not one, but two power hitters, in Albert Pujols and Matt Holliday, who has been on a tear ever since he got traded to the Cards from the A's. The Cards also have two of the best pitchers in the NL, in Adam Wainwrightand Chris Carpenter. The Dodgers also have the most prolific lineup in the NL, with not only Manny, but Ethier, Kemp, Pierre, Hudson, and Furcal as well. The Dodgers will have to outslug the Cards to win, as their pitching isn't nearly as good as it was last yr, when they lost to the Phils in the NLCS. So, I'll take the Cards in a sweep.
Granted, I hate the Yankees, with a passion, they're my most hated team in all of professional sports, just barely nudging by the Cowboys for that slot, which makes sense they both went in on a business venture to support their combined 2 Billion dollar stadiums. That was a tangent and I apologize, but, what I was going to say. I hate the Yankees, but you can't discount their record this season, holding the best record in all of MLB. They have excellent pitching, and hitting, and defense. It seems like their onlky weakness could be starting pitching. But, even then they have Andy Pettite, who has one of the best playoff records ever, with CC Sabathia being a horse and Cy Young canidate. Then, they also have AJ Burnett, who hasn't stubnk this season surprisingly in the first year of a multi-year deal. Then, you have the Twins, who seem like its destiny for them to be the underdog and beat the Yankees. They have overcome a 9.5 game deficit entering the month of September, and then forced the Tigers to a tiebreaker, then got out of a bases loaded jam in the top of the 12th in that game to win. The Twins also have been decamated by injuries, including the loss of Justin Morneau, their All-Star first baseman, to overcome this. But, I just can't pick against the Yankees. Yanks in 4, giving the Twins one last win in the Metrodome.
ALDS Boston-L.A. Angels
The last few times these two met in the playoffs, the Sox have won easily. But, new seasons bring new results, I think. The Red Sox have not been playing too well the past few weeks, as they backdoored into the AL Wild Card. Their starting pitching has been suspect as of late, and they have not been too good of a hitting team lately. Which brings me to the consistency of the LA Angels, they have been just so consistent throughout the entire season, again winning their weak division early. The only question mark they have is Brian Fuentes, their closer. Fuentes has the second most blown saves of any closer in the postseason behind Brad Lidge. That's the only thing that Boston may have to win this series. Although Boston brings a new level of play to the postseason, I just don't see a victory here. LAA in 4.
NLDS Philly-Colorado
Rematch of the 2007 NLDS when Colorado was coming in on their tear of wins and being the runaway freight train that nobody could stop until the Red Sox did in the World Series. Granted, Colorado hasn't been on that big of a run, that late in the season. Colorado has been on that run since Jim Tracy took over as manager back on May 18. Colorado also has a better record than the Phils, which may give them an edge. However, the Phillies now have a lot more experience in the postseason and I think have better starting pitching. The Rockies also are without Jorge De La Rosa, who is out with a groin strain. De La Rosa is the hottest pitcher of the sumer, since June 4, he has 16 wins, which is a ton, imagine how many he'd have if he knew how to pitch before then. I think this series will go the distance, with the Phils pulling out despite their shaky bullpen.
NLDS St. Louis-L.A. Dodgers
Great series pitting two classic teams. Saint Louis is a great offensive team, who has not one, but two power hitters, in Albert Pujols and Matt Holliday, who has been on a tear ever since he got traded to the Cards from the A's. The Cards also have two of the best pitchers in the NL, in Adam Wainwrightand Chris Carpenter. The Dodgers also have the most prolific lineup in the NL, with not only Manny, but Ethier, Kemp, Pierre, Hudson, and Furcal as well. The Dodgers will have to outslug the Cards to win, as their pitching isn't nearly as good as it was last yr, when they lost to the Phils in the NLCS. So, I'll take the Cards in a sweep.
Friday, October 2, 2009
NHL Preview/Predictions
Hey, I'm back and now since the NHL is back in session, I figured I'd give a bit of a preview here. It'll be somewhat similar to my NFL preview, but it won't have as much info because ESPN is the absolute worst at covering hockey. Like the NFL preview, it'll be arranged in order from worst to first, with the Eastern conference coming first. Also, at the end, I'll say make or miss the playoffs because both the NBA and NHL don't know how to limit teams.
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Division
N.Y. Islanders: Will still stink, despite the sensational rookie John Tavares, he'll be ok, by scoring 20g, and have at least 50 points on a horrible team. The goalie situation will be interesting, as they have Rick DiPietro, whom they signed to one of the worst contracts in history, and Marty Biron, who was solid in Philly.
Playoffs: Miss
N.Y. Rangers: Have plenty of offense, with Marian Gaborik, Vinny Prospal, Sean Avery, and Marc Staal leading the way. But, have only a few experienced defensemen, and Henrik Lundqvist, as good as he is, can't stop everything, but he'll stop enough to get them in the playoffs.
Playoffs: Make, barely
N.J. Devils: their coach from the 95 cup championship is back, but they let Brendan Shanahan, who provides leadership go. But, they also have someone who has been their forever, in their goalie, Marty Brodeur, the all time winningest NHL goalie, only reason they make the playoffs.
Playoffs: Make, barely
Philadelphia Flyers: Only because I have CSN Philly, do I know what all the Flyers did this summer, and it was great, except for the possibly questionable signing of Ray Emery, to replace Biron. Chris Pronger, acquired in a trade from Anaheim will surely bring up the defense, and it shows that the Flyers are for now. But, still below the team from the other side of the state.
Playoffs: Make
Pittsburgh Penguins: Still have 2 of the top 10 players in the game, in Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Also have one of the top 10 goalies, in Marc Andre Fleury. Although they lost some enforcement players in Hal Gill and Miroslav Satan, they'll still be fine.
Playoffs: 1 or 2 seed.
Northeast Division
Toronto Maple Leafs: Will take Brian Burke another year or 2 to rebuild this once proud franchise. Granted, they improved their defense, but where's the scoring?
Playoffs: Miss
Buffalo Sabres: Have the U.S. starting goalie in the olympics, Ryan Miller, but not much else, other than Thomas Vanek, who will again get his requisite 70 points. Lindy Ruff always gets the most out of his players, but I just don't see them making the playoffs.
Playoffs: Miss
Ottawa Senators: Have aging players, and struggled down the stretch the past few seasons, but I think they're just a shade outside the playoffs, much like the Rangers. They did make a blockbuster trade to acquire Jonathon Cheechoo and Alex Kovalev, who will bring a lot of scoring, just I don't know who their goalie is, which is the reason they miss the playoffs.
Playoffs: Miss
Montreal Canadiens: Have Alex Kovalev, a very prolific scorer, and Carey Prince, a very young promising goalie, that;s why I'm picking them to make the playoffs.
Playoffs: Make, barely
Boston Bruins: What's not to like? Got one of the best goalies, Tim Thomas, one of the best defensemen, Zdeno Chara, and Marc Svard is a star in the making.
Playoffs: number 1 seed.
Southeast Division: Everyone will stink except the Captials, I'll just leave it at that, although Carolina may also make the playoffs, they're one of those sneaky teams. Otherwise, don't know a whole lot about the division. Other than the fact that Tampa, Florida, and Atlanta will stink to the high heavens and be three of the worst teams in the league.
Western Conference
Central Division
St Louis Blues: Have one of the most optimistic teams, and rightly so, after their surprise second half run, much like the Rockies second half run in 07 for baseball. They also have Paul Kariya, who brings leadership and scoring. They also have one of the best young goalies out there, Chris Mason.
Playoffs: Make
Nashville Predators: Very small market team, who always seem to go beyond expectations, much like the Sabres, and I will believe in them and Jason Arnott and Steve Sullivan, who will be a prolific partner.
Playoffs: Make
Columbus Blue Jackets: Made Columbus go into euphoria after their first ever playoff experience last year, where they got swept by the eventual Western Conference champs. But, with Rick Nash and their amazing goalie, Steve Mason, they'll make the playoffs again.
Playoffs: Make
Detroit Red Wings: Lost Marian Hossa, who went to the team I'm picking first in the division. They replaced him with Todd Bertuzzi, who is capable of producing about half of that scoring amount. But, they're still an amazing team, who work together.
Playoffs: Make
Chicago Blackhawks: Got Marian Hossa to help out Patrick Kane and Jonathon Toews, and with Cristobal Huet in net, who is a very good goalie. Made the conference finals last season and will go even further, by beating their northern rivals.
Playoffs: 2nd seed
Northwest Division:
Colorado Avalanche: Don't know much, but I know they stunk last year, and will stink this year, which is weird to say for the Avs. They will be a rebuilding project, considering they lost a lot of veterans and it's like they're going to take a bit to rebuild, and will eventually return to their luster...in about 3-4 years.
Playoffs: Miss
Minnesota Wild: Again, don't know much, but I don't think they're very good, so this is where they go.
Playoffs: Miss
Edmonton Oilers: Exchanged Dwayne Roloson, a good goalie, for another good, not great goalie Nikolai Khabiboulin. the Boulin wall is no more, and he seems to be one of those guys like A.J. Burnett who only puts up good numbers during contract years, that's what I expect this season in the first of a multi year deal.
Playoffs: Miss
Vancouver Canucks: Very solid team, much like the Wings, who don't have many superstars, but have very good players, like Mikael Samuelsson, and their stud goalie, Roberto Luongo. Have them making the playoffs.
Playoffs: Make
Calgary Flames: Can't go against Jarome Iginla, one of the best players in the league, but few folks know about him, because nobody cares about hockey, he plays in Canada, and he plays in western Canada. Mikka Kiprusoff is also very good in net.
Playoffs: 3rd seed
Pacific Division:
Phoenix Coyotes: When you lose Wayne Gretzky as your coach, and the fact that the team is bankrupt, you think you're going to have a good season? That's what I thought.
Playoffs: Wait until someone buys the team and moves it to an actual hockey market, Winnipeg anyone?
Dallas Stars: Just don't have anyone, besiudes Marty Turco in net, who's going to score?
Playoffs: Rebuilding, wait 5 years.
L.A. Kings: Have great young stars, in Ryan Smyth, Michal Handzus, and Jarret Stoll, but this team is like the Blackhawks of a few years ago, who are good, but not quite there yet.
Playoffs: Miss
Anaheim Ducks: Very veteran team, but brought in some youth with the Pronger trade, and still have good goalies, in J.S. Giguere and Jonas Hiller, but will just barely miss the playoffs.
Playoffs: Miss, barely
S.J. Sharks: Great team, esp. with Joe Thornton giving everyone goals, but he'll miss Cheechoo on his line, but Cheechoo is replaced easily by Dany Heatley. Evgeni Nabokov is also one of the top 5 goalies in the league, hence why they won the President's trophy last season.
Playoffs: 2nd seed.
Stanley Cup Final Prediction: Blackhawks beat Capitals in 7, showcasing 3 of the top players in the game, Toews, Kane and Alex Ovechkin.
As I'm not going to be a symbol for plagiarism, I took most of the info for this article from USA Today's website.
Thoughts? E-mail me at braveever@yahoo.com
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Division
N.Y. Islanders: Will still stink, despite the sensational rookie John Tavares, he'll be ok, by scoring 20g, and have at least 50 points on a horrible team. The goalie situation will be interesting, as they have Rick DiPietro, whom they signed to one of the worst contracts in history, and Marty Biron, who was solid in Philly.
Playoffs: Miss
N.Y. Rangers: Have plenty of offense, with Marian Gaborik, Vinny Prospal, Sean Avery, and Marc Staal leading the way. But, have only a few experienced defensemen, and Henrik Lundqvist, as good as he is, can't stop everything, but he'll stop enough to get them in the playoffs.
Playoffs: Make, barely
N.J. Devils: their coach from the 95 cup championship is back, but they let Brendan Shanahan, who provides leadership go. But, they also have someone who has been their forever, in their goalie, Marty Brodeur, the all time winningest NHL goalie, only reason they make the playoffs.
Playoffs: Make, barely
Philadelphia Flyers: Only because I have CSN Philly, do I know what all the Flyers did this summer, and it was great, except for the possibly questionable signing of Ray Emery, to replace Biron. Chris Pronger, acquired in a trade from Anaheim will surely bring up the defense, and it shows that the Flyers are for now. But, still below the team from the other side of the state.
Playoffs: Make
Pittsburgh Penguins: Still have 2 of the top 10 players in the game, in Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Also have one of the top 10 goalies, in Marc Andre Fleury. Although they lost some enforcement players in Hal Gill and Miroslav Satan, they'll still be fine.
Playoffs: 1 or 2 seed.
Northeast Division
Toronto Maple Leafs: Will take Brian Burke another year or 2 to rebuild this once proud franchise. Granted, they improved their defense, but where's the scoring?
Playoffs: Miss
Buffalo Sabres: Have the U.S. starting goalie in the olympics, Ryan Miller, but not much else, other than Thomas Vanek, who will again get his requisite 70 points. Lindy Ruff always gets the most out of his players, but I just don't see them making the playoffs.
Playoffs: Miss
Ottawa Senators: Have aging players, and struggled down the stretch the past few seasons, but I think they're just a shade outside the playoffs, much like the Rangers. They did make a blockbuster trade to acquire Jonathon Cheechoo and Alex Kovalev, who will bring a lot of scoring, just I don't know who their goalie is, which is the reason they miss the playoffs.
Playoffs: Miss
Montreal Canadiens: Have Alex Kovalev, a very prolific scorer, and Carey Prince, a very young promising goalie, that;s why I'm picking them to make the playoffs.
Playoffs: Make, barely
Boston Bruins: What's not to like? Got one of the best goalies, Tim Thomas, one of the best defensemen, Zdeno Chara, and Marc Svard is a star in the making.
Playoffs: number 1 seed.
Southeast Division: Everyone will stink except the Captials, I'll just leave it at that, although Carolina may also make the playoffs, they're one of those sneaky teams. Otherwise, don't know a whole lot about the division. Other than the fact that Tampa, Florida, and Atlanta will stink to the high heavens and be three of the worst teams in the league.
Western Conference
Central Division
St Louis Blues: Have one of the most optimistic teams, and rightly so, after their surprise second half run, much like the Rockies second half run in 07 for baseball. They also have Paul Kariya, who brings leadership and scoring. They also have one of the best young goalies out there, Chris Mason.
Playoffs: Make
Nashville Predators: Very small market team, who always seem to go beyond expectations, much like the Sabres, and I will believe in them and Jason Arnott and Steve Sullivan, who will be a prolific partner.
Playoffs: Make
Columbus Blue Jackets: Made Columbus go into euphoria after their first ever playoff experience last year, where they got swept by the eventual Western Conference champs. But, with Rick Nash and their amazing goalie, Steve Mason, they'll make the playoffs again.
Playoffs: Make
Detroit Red Wings: Lost Marian Hossa, who went to the team I'm picking first in the division. They replaced him with Todd Bertuzzi, who is capable of producing about half of that scoring amount. But, they're still an amazing team, who work together.
Playoffs: Make
Chicago Blackhawks: Got Marian Hossa to help out Patrick Kane and Jonathon Toews, and with Cristobal Huet in net, who is a very good goalie. Made the conference finals last season and will go even further, by beating their northern rivals.
Playoffs: 2nd seed
Northwest Division:
Colorado Avalanche: Don't know much, but I know they stunk last year, and will stink this year, which is weird to say for the Avs. They will be a rebuilding project, considering they lost a lot of veterans and it's like they're going to take a bit to rebuild, and will eventually return to their luster...in about 3-4 years.
Playoffs: Miss
Minnesota Wild: Again, don't know much, but I don't think they're very good, so this is where they go.
Playoffs: Miss
Edmonton Oilers: Exchanged Dwayne Roloson, a good goalie, for another good, not great goalie Nikolai Khabiboulin. the Boulin wall is no more, and he seems to be one of those guys like A.J. Burnett who only puts up good numbers during contract years, that's what I expect this season in the first of a multi year deal.
Playoffs: Miss
Vancouver Canucks: Very solid team, much like the Wings, who don't have many superstars, but have very good players, like Mikael Samuelsson, and their stud goalie, Roberto Luongo. Have them making the playoffs.
Playoffs: Make
Calgary Flames: Can't go against Jarome Iginla, one of the best players in the league, but few folks know about him, because nobody cares about hockey, he plays in Canada, and he plays in western Canada. Mikka Kiprusoff is also very good in net.
Playoffs: 3rd seed
Pacific Division:
Phoenix Coyotes: When you lose Wayne Gretzky as your coach, and the fact that the team is bankrupt, you think you're going to have a good season? That's what I thought.
Playoffs: Wait until someone buys the team and moves it to an actual hockey market, Winnipeg anyone?
Dallas Stars: Just don't have anyone, besiudes Marty Turco in net, who's going to score?
Playoffs: Rebuilding, wait 5 years.
L.A. Kings: Have great young stars, in Ryan Smyth, Michal Handzus, and Jarret Stoll, but this team is like the Blackhawks of a few years ago, who are good, but not quite there yet.
Playoffs: Miss
Anaheim Ducks: Very veteran team, but brought in some youth with the Pronger trade, and still have good goalies, in J.S. Giguere and Jonas Hiller, but will just barely miss the playoffs.
Playoffs: Miss, barely
S.J. Sharks: Great team, esp. with Joe Thornton giving everyone goals, but he'll miss Cheechoo on his line, but Cheechoo is replaced easily by Dany Heatley. Evgeni Nabokov is also one of the top 5 goalies in the league, hence why they won the President's trophy last season.
Playoffs: 2nd seed.
Stanley Cup Final Prediction: Blackhawks beat Capitals in 7, showcasing 3 of the top players in the game, Toews, Kane and Alex Ovechkin.
As I'm not going to be a symbol for plagiarism, I took most of the info for this article from USA Today's website.
Thoughts? E-mail me at braveever@yahoo.com
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