2013 Southeast Division Champions Caps Vs. Rangers

[ixcuincle]

There is a strong sense around the league and fans that the lockout is ending very soon

NHL offered 50-50 split to NHLPA and NHLPA is waiting to accept

Even if NHLPA doesn't accept, it's a huge step forward in negotiations and the lockout could be ending very soon!

Discuss the '12-'13 season here

---------- Post added October-16th-2012 at 01:12 PM ----------

Ovechkin may not come back if NHL re-starts season :(

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=9&cad=rja&ved=0CFkQFjAI&url=http%3A%2F%2Fprohockeytalk.nbcsports.com%2F201 2%2F09%2F19%2Fovechkin-ill-stay-in-the-khl-if-the-nhl-cuts-salaries%2F&ei=kZV9UPbONdKM0QGtn4HoDA&usg=AFQjCNHsBAN96xQukaPf8pS4vatSZ2iLOw&sig2=qCy5aMlGzJ7LLLWYm22GDQ


Alex Ovechkin is threatening to stay in the KHL past this season, ... and the lockout ends, Ovechkin would be under contract to the Capitals.

Would certainly hurt Caps if he decides to stay in Russia, need him back as soon as possible.

[RonArtest15]

Not going to lie...got REAL excited when I saw this thread. Had to temper my enthusiasm after seeing there was no deal done. LOL

Ovechkin will be back. I'm not worried about these guys staying overseas for a year.

[Heisenberg]

Doesn't staying overseas when he's signed to a contract with the Caps cause some issue with him playing in the Olympics in 2014? I can't imagine Ovechkin risking that

[skinsfan07]

I can't wait for this deal to be settled. As for Ovi, hopefully the talent in Russia is better than over here, b/c he needs to step his game up.

[ixcuincle]

The offer the NHL made to the PA is reasonable. If the PA rejects, it'll be a huge PR hit for them. The NHLPA has to accept, especially when the offer the NHL is putting forward is extremely similar to the NHLPA's original offer. The NHLPA could also theoretically reject, but offer minor changes which could be negotiated.

There is an extremely positive feeling about the potential end to a lockout very soon. All the NHLPA has to do is accept. Please accept :(

[pjfootballer]

I've been saying this all along. 50/50 is the way to go. And Ovie is in great shape for once, so I'd hate that he would try to stay over there. Is there any recourse for us to demand he honor his NHL contract before any other? Maybe fining him or something? Anyone know?

[Gracelander]

twitter is saying if it's accepeted we will have an 82 game season starting Nov. 2

Lets hope!

[Heisenberg]

The offer the NHL made to the PA is reasonable. If the PA rejects, it'll be a huge PR hit for them. The NHLPA has to accept, especially when the offer the NHL is putting forward is extremely similar to the NHLPA's original offer. The NHLPA could also theoretically reject, but offer minor changes which could be negotiated.

There is an extremely positive feeling about the potential end to a lockout very soon. All the NHLPA has to do is accept. Please accept :(


Full 82 game season too - they definitely need to accept or make a counter quickly. A deal like this would do a lot to save face for the league.

[MattFancy]

Please get a deal done soon!!

[DCranon21]

Besides me following basketball, I'll be following more hockey if the lockout ends. Hopefully the Caps can go further than the 2nd rd.

[The Bounty Hunter #21]

This is the first time that I can actually see a light at the end of the tunnel regarding this lockout. The best part consists of being able to still have a full 82 game season instead of a condensed version :beavisnbutthead:.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Ovi knows damn well his ass will be in Virginia the minute the lockout ends

[Duckus]

Sounds weird . . .but I was sort of hoping they would stay locked out for a bit longer. Wouldn't have minded a ~50 game season. I think it would work better for the NHL than 82 games.

[pjfootballer]

It looks like the divisions will remain the same for this season. I hated the idea of 4 "conferences." This is what I would do:

Bring back the old division names and add 2 more-

Patrick- NY Islanders, NY Rangers, New Jersey, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia

Adams- Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Boston, Buffalo

Howe- Washington, Carolina, Tampa Bay, Florida, Nashville

Norris- Minnesota, Chicago, Detroit, St. Louis, Columbus

Gretzky- Edmonton, Calgary, Colorado, Winnipeg, Dallas

Smythe- Vancouver, Los Angeles, Anaheim, San Jose, Phoenix

[Heisenberg]

Ugh, I absolutely hate the idea the idea of staying in a conference with all of those teams in the South. Bring back a division with Pittsburgh, Philly, NYR, etc.

Also, no way are they straying from the regional division names.

[HBnotBlades]

I loved the proposed realignment, hopefully we can see that next season. I would be shocked if Fehr accepted the owners offer straight up, he's proven himself to be way too stubborn to do that over the years, but I could see him quickly countering with something very similar.

[SpringfieldSkins]

I'll believe it when I see it.

[skinsfan07]

Ovi knows damn well his ass will be in Virginia the minute the lockout ends

haha he better be!!!

[Gracelander]

No news until tomorrow or Thursday. According to twitter

[abdcskins]

Here I'll save you all the trouble. They'll have a winning record and lose in the second round of the playoffs.

[DCsportsfan53]

Not that I believe Ovi or that the information in this thread drives the needle at all but I must say, I'm reeeeeeeeeeeeally wearing thin on Ovi. I've got about 3 fingers grasping at the "I'm done with that ****ing guy" ledge.

[Warhead36]

Not that I believe Ovi or that the information in this thread drives the needle at all but I must say, I'm reeeeeeeeeeeeally wearing thin on Ovi. I've got about 3 fingers grasping at the "I'm done with that ****ing guy" ledge.

I'm almost at that point too. Guy let himself go and wasted some of his prime years.

With the likes of RG3, Strasburg, and Harper, Ovie's star has really fallen. He was at one point the most popular athlete here, now he may not even be in the top 5.

[Heisenberg]

I was so optimistic going into today and until about 5 minutes ago.

Hard for me to believe there will even be a season at this point. Good job NHLPA - *******s.

[Popeman38]

Donald Fehr was the WORST union leader the NHLPA could have hired. He submarined an entire baseball season and cancelled the World Series. THAT is his calling card. He is a wank of the worst variety.

[Ellis]

Rumor has it the players side of the strike will submit up to 4 counter-proposals.

[DarrellsMyHero28]

Rumor has it the players side of the strike will submit up to 4 counter-proposals.

NHL left the meeting after an hour. Bettman said it was a step backward.

:(

[Sticksboi05]

I loved the proposed realignment, hopefully we can see that next season. I would be shocked if Fehr accepted the owners offer straight up, he's proven himself to be way too stubborn to do that over the years, but I could see him quickly countering with something very similar.


I'm done with the NHL's tomfoolery. Won't talk about it anymore until a deal is made.

[DarrellsMyHero28]

I do wonder how much the fans have an effect on these issues. Well, by fans I really mean the money that the fans have.

I'm pretty sure the guys with the big bucks (ESPN, CBS, FOX etc.) leaned on the NFL like crazy to get things done because they were worried about all the money they'd lose.

The NHL pales in comparision in money, ratings etc so losing (ANOTHER) season won't have the same financial effect on the big boys in the entertainment biz.

Feel like this the reason why this is happening has a lot to do with the overall popularity of the sport.

That may be common sense, and I'm certainly not trying to diss the NHL because I absolutely love hockey but just a thought for a Thursday afternoon as I fight to stay awake in my office.

[jobaga]

The best thing for the CAPS may be a loss of the entire season. Let the young kids get some experience in Europe and try again next year...

[Popeman38]

DONALD FEHR. His name is in the paper EVERY DAY for a reason. This is how he makes his bones.

EDIT: Yes, I am angry at the owners for causing this mess in the first place by binge drinking and then assembling their payroll. But for a league with the smallest sport related revenue pool to have a PA saying that the starting point for negotiations is at 57% of the pie, you will lose a season. Why is 57% the starting point? Because that is where the league was last year, and it's the owners fault. But Donald Fehr WILL NOT allow a penny to be lost. He makes more money and a bigger name the longer this work stoppage goes. That is how he wins.

[DarrellsMyHero28]

The best thing for the CAPS may be a loss of the entire season. Let the young kids get some experience in Europe and try again next year...

Eh, they'll get experience but they'll lose a lot in terms of chemistry and with a new coach and system coupled with Alex Ovechkin getting older (due more to his style of play than his actual age) I'd have to disagree.

---------- Post added October-18th-2012 at 03:37 PM ----------

EDIT: I also wonder about the league's mindset regarding the PR hit they'd take if they lose another season.

The players would ultimately get the short end of the stick if they league locks out and lets face it, you're still going to watch the Caps if you're a fan no matter what happens.

Do any of the leagues really suffer that badly after a lockout? We're obsessed with sports so we'll moan and complain about it but when the Caps are on TV we're watching.

[btfoom]

Not that I believe Ovi or that the information in this thread drives the needle at all but I must say, I'm reeeeeeeeeeeeally wearing thin on Ovi. I've got about 3 fingers grasping at the "I'm done with that ****ing guy" ledge.


I'm almost at that point too. Guy let himself go and wasted some of his prime years.

With the likes of RG3, Strasburg, and Harper, Ovie's star has really fallen. He was at one point the most popular athlete here, now he may not even be in the top 5.

I don't care one iota about most popular. When Ovie is playing, he's one of the best scorers this league has seen. Even the last couple of seasons, he's bee the top scorer for Caps by far.

Now with Semin gone, you want to lose Ovie too. How's 1.5 goals per game sound to you, because that's what the Caps would be looking like if he stays in KHL.

[Popeman38]

I don't care one iota about most popular. When Ovie is playing, he's one of the best scorers this league has seen. Even the last couple of seasons, he's bee the top scorer for Caps by far.

Now with Semin gone, you want to lose Ovie too. How's 1.5 goals per game sound to you, because that's what the Caps would be looking like if he stays in KHL.He CAN'T sty in the KHL. It would violate the international agreement that allows players to gain transfers from one country to another. He would screw every other KHL player out of playing in the NHL.

[jobaga]

Eh, they'll get experience but they'll lose a lot in terms of chemistry and with a new coach and system coupled with Alex Ovechkin getting older (due more to his style of play than his actual age) I'd have to disagree.

I'm talking about Forsberg, Galiev, Kuznetsov, Orlov, Wilson....the next waive. For what I could tell this offseason, the CAPS did not replace Semin because they want a young forward to replace him specifically Kuznetsov or Galiev. Hopefully they will be mature enough next year to step up and contribute.

[DarrellsMyHero28]

I'm talking about Forsberg, Galiev, Kuznetsov, Orlov, Wilson....the next waive. For what I could tell this offseason, the CAPS did not replace Semin because they want a young forward to replace him specifically Kuznetsov or Galiev. Hopefully they will me mature enough next year to step up and contribute.

Fair enough, but those guys would be playing in the AHL or somewhere with a season anyways so I'm not sure what the difference would be?

[jobaga]

Fair enough, but those guys would be playing in the AHL or somewhere with a season anyways so I'm not sure what the difference would be?

The 'studs' play in Europe as they are tied to contracts. In a year Kuznetsov and Forsberg will be able to switch to the NHL (if they so desire). Orlov is already here and Wilson is Canadian, so they both would benefit from the AHL. Not sure if Galiev will ever come over

[HBnotBlades]

The 'studs' play in Europe as they are tied to contracts. In a year Kuznetsov and Forsberg will be able to switch to the NHL (if they so desire). Orlov is already here and Wilson is Canadian, so they both would benefit from the AHL. Not sure if Galiev will ever come over

Galiev has been over here for 4 years already, I'm not worried about him. Hopefully Kuznetsov comes over in two years when his KHL contract is up, it would be great if he came over next year, but I don't really see it happening.

[DCsportsfan53]

I don't care one iota about most popular. When Ovie is playing, he's one of the best scorers this league has seen. Even the last couple of seasons, he's bee the top scorer for Caps by far.

Now with Semin gone, you want to lose Ovie too. How's 1.5 goals per game sound to you, because that's what the Caps would be looking like if he stays in KHL.

I don't care about most popular either. I care about rooting for a guy who clearly doesn't work as hard as he should and doesn't put the effort in that his peers do. I care about watching him continue to play like an undisciplined rookie with little improvement or evolution to his game. I care that he does not appear to be a winner. As it stands I have a REALLY hard time imagine an Ovi led and focused team achieving what we've all been waiting for this team to do for decades. That's why I'm almost done with him. I didn't even say I wanted him off the team, I just want to see him take the next step instead of continuing to walk backwards, I'm almost done because with each passing season I become less and less hopeful it'll ever happen.

[Sticksboi05]

He got his ass into shape this offseason that's for sure. Probably his GF making fun of him.

[jobaga]

Galiev has been over here for 4 years already, I'm not worried about him. Hopefully Kuznetsov comes over in two years when his KHL contract is up, it would be great if he came over next year, but I don't really see it happening.

boy, I was way off...I thought Kuznetsov could come over after this next year and did not think Galiev was over yet (or even wanted to come over)

[jobaga]

Galiev has been over here for 4 years already, I'm not worried about him. Hopefully Kuznetsov comes over in two years when his KHL contract is up, it would be great if he came over next year, but I don't really see it happening.

boy, I was way off...I thought Kuznetsov could come over after this next year and did not think Galiev was over yet (or even wanted to come over)

[Gracelander]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtazdXh03aU&feature=colike

[ixcuincle]

That jerk Fehr probably killed the season by rejecting the 50-50 proposal. They have a few days, maybe a week, to hammer something out, or else it's over.

[ixcuincle]

Meetings held today with no Fehr or Bettman. Just a collection of owners and players

These meetings went on late throughout tonight and there is rampant speculation that the season might be saved

[Gracelander]

I'd be happy to see it on, but I've convinced myself the season is ruined. But I'll reevaluate if they strike a deal.
I loved days when we'd have a Skins game and later that night a caps game to watch.

[Warhead36]

So we basically lost two seasons of Ovechkin's prime because of lockouts.

**** you Bettman.

[ixcuincle]

The positive vibes continue as there is this sense that we are closer and closer to a deal, and the return of hockey. Marathon negotiations continue with headway being made

The negotiations are very fragile and can corrupt on any wrong move, but so far, everything looks extremely positive. There is an extremely strong sense that hockey will be back very soon.

---------- Post added December-5th-2012 at 03:28 PM ----------


NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman says he's "pleased with the ongoing progress" as labor negotiations are resuming with players Wednesday following a meeting of the league's Board of Bovernors.

Bettman returned to the site of talks with the players' association after spending about two hours with executives from the league's 30 teams a few blocks away. The commissioner offered a brief statement but declined to take questions.

Bettman and union executive director Donald Fehr are again sitting out the latest round of talks that are made up of six team owners and 18 players, along with staff and counsel on both sides. Players and owners met for a total of nearly eight hours on Tuesday in different size groups. Enough progress was made to get back to the bargaining table after talks ended around midnight Tuesday.


Read More: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/hockey/nhl/12/05/cba-talks-progress.ap/index.html#ixzz2EDAId5yn

[Sticksboi05]

Kevin DeLury ‏@TheNYRBlog

Source telling me NHL podium in hotel is for press conference tomorrow announcing CBA agreement.

[Hersh]

Please let this be true. I'm excited to see what Adam Oates can do as the new head coach.

[Popeman38]

RGIII was involved in the meetings, wasn't he?

[HBnotBlades]

Lot's of exciting things happening in the hockey world this morning (technically it was last night). Everything should be taken with a huge grain of salt, but it's certainly better than all the other news we've been hearing.

Iain MacIntyre
‏@imacVanSun
Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos says some coaches are calling players to tell them to be ready for imminent return. #CBA

Kevin DeLury
‏@TheNYRBlog
Source telling me NHL podium in hotel is for press conference tomorrow announcing CBA agreement.

Steve Burton
‏@WBZSteveBurton
#CBA negotiations are strenous, but are closer and closer. Fans will have NHL hockey by Christmas, very likely games on Christmas day.

Matthew Barnaby
‏@MattBarnaby3636
Just got a text from owners side that his guess is season starts on dec 26th.

Bob McKenzieVerified
‏@TSNBobMcKenzie
IF I were going to read into anything, I'd be more likely to focus on fact that flow of info/details from room is shut down tight.

[EBoz]

Looks like an agreement is close and this is great news. I'm really missing the hockey as I'm not an NBA fan at all.

[HBnotBlades]

I may have posted those a bit early. After reading some more I found articles like this

http://thestar.blogs.com/thespin/2012/12/into-the-wee-hours.html

NEW YORK--The conversation went something like this.

"Let's leave," said Boston Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs, turning to NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly.

"It's up to you," replied Daly.

At that point during the talks between the NHL and NHL Players Association on Wednesday, a day that began as a continuation of the momentum generated on Tuesday, both sides were at the precipice, and the 2012-13 season was in jeopardy. Earlier, Buffalo Sabres goalie Ryan Miller had angrily vented when the owners said they were disappointed with the players responses to an earlier offer and threatened to pull everything off the table.

But with Jacobs poised to abandon the talks, other owners spoke up, and then both sides dramatically backed away from the precipice. When talks ended close to 1 a.m. Thursday morning after more than eight hours of talks without NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and union executive director Don Fehr, it certainly seemed from the outside they were getting closer and closer to a deal to end this ugly lockout.

Now there's word that the players want the talks to be open today, aka Fehr and Bettman will be back in the room. I realize that a final deal can't be made without those guys around, but I don't think their at that stage yet.

For the players, the current deal sounds pretty fair. It's a 10 year CBA, the owners up'd their make whole provision offer to $300M, added in $50M worth of pension money, are not changing the UFA or arbitration rules, contracts can only vary by 5% year to year, but there's a 5 years limit on contract length (7 if you sign with your own team).

If I'm a player, that's pretty close to when I've been looking for. Maybe try to get the 5 year contract limit up to 6, but otherwise that looks pretty good.

[pjfootballer]

Looks like an agreement is close and this is great news. I'm really missing the hockey as I'm not an NBA fan at all.

Me too. Gave up on the NBA about 4 years ago when the Wiz kept sucking and the Caps were stomping people. But I've been a fan of both teams for a long time, so don't get me wrong. I'm not a bandwagon Caps fan since I've been watching them the year they traded for Rod Langway. But Hockey has always been my second favorite sport behind football.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

you guys should temper the enthusiasm...**** is not looking too good now

[ixcuincle]

Because Fehr and Bettman got re-involved

**** those idiots

---------- Post added December-6th-2012 at 06:59 PM ----------

Lot of positivity now that Fehr made his conference and announced what are allegedly huge gains in the process in terms of the financial aspects of the NHL

We get closer and closer to the return of Capitals hockey

[ixcuincle]

I am sad to report that the NHL has denied the NHLPA's demands and Fehr says there is "no resolution soon"

I am disappointed

So much progress was made, but the process is so fragile and any gust like that can just damage hope

Just...just stunned here

---------- Post added December-6th-2012 at 07:22 PM ----------

Jonas Siegel
‏@jonasTSN1050
Fehr: It looks like this is not going to be resolved in the immediate future.

[Pick6]

Donald Fehr is a piss of ****. The minute he in walked into the room the deal was ****ed.

[Popeman38]

Donald Fehr is a ****nut. The longer this goes, the more he makes. This is what he lives for. Ask MLB. The owners are *******s, but the players caused this 2 years ago when they hired Donald Fehr.

[skinsdomination09]

Truth is, while not meaning to insult anybody, if you believe Bettman is the wolf then you are a disillusioned idiot. Sorry but it's true.

Fehr is all PR no substance. Manipulative POS.

[HBnotBlades]

Good to see both sides taking the completely irrational "burn it all down" approach. That always goes well. :rolleyes:

Pierre LeBrun has a pretty good summary with an appropriate title:
http://espn.go.com/blog/nhl/post/_/id/20628/you-have-got-to-be-kidding-me

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Truth is, while not meaning to insult anybody, if you believe Bettman is the wolf then you are a disillusioned idiot. Sorry but it's true.

Fehr is all PR no substance. Manipulative POS.

this...

it's on him

**** that prick

[pjfootballer]

I was reading about it and the one thing that gets to me is one of the issues. Length of contract. The Owners want a 5 year max for free agents and 7 for re-signing your own players. But the players don't like the 5 year max for free agents. But then, they piss and moan about not being able to become free agents until late in their career. You can't have both.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

The season is ******...

Hopefully, RGIII gets us in the playoffs and maybe uses his magic on John Wall's knee

[bch89]

Being at the Hershey game last night made me miss hockey more than I thought

[Redskin4ever]

Donald Fehr is a ****nut. The longer this goes, the more he makes. This is what he lives for. Ask MLB. The owners are *******s, but the players caused this 2 years ago when they hired Donald Fehr.

You are correct. As soon as I heard Fehr was named to head the union, I knew there would be labor problems. He made a bunch of money ruining baseball, he can make money by ruining hockey too.

[ixcuincle]

Things are looking very good, and it looks like there will be a settlement very very soon.

I know I've said this before only to have things collapse, but there's been a lot of progression over the last couple of days and there is a real sense of optimism. There isn't the gloom of fragile negotiations that hovered over last time. Both sides realize if they fail now, the season's off. They understand what is at stake.

---------- Post added January-5th-2013 at 03:41 PM ----------



http://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/statuses/287623974777659392

Well, if its a close as we're sensing it could be a very "good day" according to source.[COLOR="Gold"]

---------- Post added January-5th-2013 at 03:55 PM ----------

Like the fiscal cliff deal, this is probably something that gets resolved at the final minute

Both sides have come too far to go back now

And last time Bettman was unwavering in "Accept the proposal we offered earlier, or else". Now, there is discussion. There is banter between the sides as they actually negotiate what looks to be a deal

[RonArtest15]

Jeff O'Neill ‏@odognine2

BREAKING- #NHLLOCKOUT is over. Camp opens Jan 12. 50 game season. #lockout

Not sure if Jeff O'Neill is trolling or serious...

[ixcuincle]

It's not over and he may be trolling

It's really close to ending though but it's not over yet

Could end any minute now

[SpringfieldSkins]

For some reason I believe it will happen this time. I believe that we'll actually have an NHL season.

[OU_skins]

IF the lockout ends, are all of the players pretty much guaranteed to return from wherever it is that they are playing? Didn't some NBA player sign a contract that he couldn't get out of in China during their lockout?

[SpringfieldSkins]

I know that the KHL requires their players to honor their NHL contracts.

It's a move that is good for us now but could come back to bite us if the KHL ever gains traction.

[ixcuincle]

And Ovechkin is currently playing in the KHL. So the Capitals without him would be pretty weird.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Lots of optimism tonight that end is in sight.

Everyone stay cautiously optimistic until we are 100% in the clear

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

double post

[Gracelander]

Trying to find a reliable twitter page on this subject is tough, so many rumors.

[OU_skins]

Well it is 3AM and apparently they are still negotiating. They started at 1 PM. Maybe they actually do want a season. Shouldn't this have happened months ago?

Gracelander, I've been following @jessespector @darrendreger among others. They seem to stick to facts instead of "im told the season might be cancelled tomorrow" type crap. I actually feel bad for people covering these meetings. They wait hours upon hours for updates that most of the time are completely worthless.

[OU_skins]

According to Bob Mckenzie (TSNBobMckenzie) and a few other tweeters, the lockout is tentatively over and there is only paperwork left. Still have to figure out number of games for this season. Good morning, hockey fans.

[Gracelander]

Just read that on Espn.com.
http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8817955/nhl-nhlpa-reach-tentative-agreement

Best news I heard all morning!
Best news I'll hear all day is Redskins WIN.

[ixcuincle]

Time to get to work winning the SE division.

---------- Post added January-6th-2013 at 08:29 AM ----------

According to several sources I spoke to, KHL players all have out clauses so they can all come on home to the NHL. Especially Ovechkin.

Ovechkin better come back to the NHL. A Caps team without him would really lose a lot of firepower.

[RonArtest15]

Why wouldn't Ovechkin come back? LOL.

[HBnotBlades]

Ovechkin already said he's definitely coming back, no need to worry. Hopefully the time he and Backstrom have had in the KHL will have them lighting up the league soon.

[ixcuincle]

He threatened to stay in the KHL, but it sounds like he's probably coming back. He needs that big time money.

[RonArtest15]

He threatened to stay in the KHL, but it sounds like he's probably coming back. He needs that big time money.

He was just posturing when he made those comments. I put no weight into what he said.

Here's another thing...how are players going to look at Hamrlik in the locker room? He had some stinging words against the PA earlier in the lockout and guys like Brouwer pretty much called him out on it. Now, in a few days, they'll be face to face. AWKWARD.

Glad hockey is back!

[EBoz]

This is the best news I've heard in a long time. I'm not an NBA guy so this is awesome.

[ixcuincle]

This is the best news I've heard in a long time. I'm not an NBA guy so this is awesome.

I'm not a NBA guy either so I had nothing to do every night without hockey. I'm glad that hockey is back. Gives me something to follow at night.

[EBoz]

I'm not a NBA guy either so I had nothing to do every night without hockey. I'm glad that hockey is back. Gives me something to follow at night.

Yeah man it's really sucked not having the NHL games. I will watch some college basketball now and then but I can't stand the NBA so it's been tough with no hockey.

[ixcuincle]

http://twitter.com/TSNBobMcKenzie/statuses/287931130408206336

Some of teams that don't intend to have junior-age prospects in camp: NYR, DET, STL, NSH, WSH, CGY.

[Kosher Ham]

I love hockey...won't support this nonsense anymore however.

At least win the NFL they learned their lesson about missing such huge parts of the season, NBA only cut about 30% of the games.

[skinsmarydu]

Yay, hockey! Go Caps!

[skinsdomination09]

I love hockey...won't support this nonsense anymore however.

At least win the NFL they learned their lesson about missing such huge parts of the season, NBA only cut about 30% of the games.

NHL is only cutting 39%...

[jnhay]

I'm actually still excited for the start of the season.

[skinsfan_1215]

I'm actually still excited for the start of the season.

I think it's going to take me actually seeing a game, then it'll happen. Curious to see how the Caps are this year, especially with the shortened season.

[More Complete]

Yes! Let's go Caps!

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Best news I've woken up to in awhile...Hopefully Ovi comes over soon and Backstrom gets back healthy

[boysetsfire]

I love hockey and the Caps but....I still don't know how to feel right now. This was such bull**** this year.

[endzone_dave]

With Semin gone, Green healthy, and Dale Hunter's ultra-defensive hockey gone, this season will be much better.

[SAli457180]

Thank God they got a deal done! :whew: I thought with Donald Fehr at the helm for the NHLPA, the season was a goner for sure.

[SpringfieldSkins]

I'm going to celebrate the end of the lockout by getting drunk and watching the Redskins beat the **** out of the Seahawks.

[Buford]

Too Little, Too Late. Bettman is still a major problem and he's still around.

Maybe next year, but this half season nonsense.....meh.

[KDawg]

I've never really been a hockey guy, but living in Rochester, I've been following the AHL Rochester Amerks and loving it. So I guess by default I'm a Sabres fan. That said, I wish you guys luck and I hope to learn a bit about the intricacies of the game through this thread and other hockey threads :)

[SpringfieldSkins]

There will be two contract buyouts allowed per team.

[RonArtest15]

There will be two contract buyouts allowed per team.

Joel Ward and....???

[SpringfieldSkins]

Joel Ward and....???

Schultz of course.

[DCranon21]

Glad to see they worked out their differences. I'm not going to lie, I thought they was going to shut it down.

[Sticksboi05]

There will be two contract buyouts allowed per team.

Yes!!! Get out of here Jeff Schultz!

[Hersh]

When can they do the two contract buyouts? I can't imagine much of anything will change lineup-wise this year with such a short amount of time before the first games will be played. I'm really excited to see what Adam Oates will do with this team.

[HBnotBlades]

Some possible good that could come out of this lockout is Kuznetsov being convinced to take his talents to the NHL. He watched guys like Ovechkin, Backstrom, Malkin, Datsyuk, Varlamov, etc. come into the KHL, dominate, and get treated like gods. Now he'll be watching them take off as soon as the NHL is back in business sending the clear message that there is one league these guys want to play in, and it's not the KHL.

[Duckus]

How many games are the thinking of playing?

[Hersh]

How many games are the thinking of playing?

48-50 in three+ months.

[Da'uud]

Anybody know if they will re-do the schedule, or pickup where they left off?

[HBnotBlades]

Completely new schedule, it will be released in the next few days.

[Warhead36]

Lets go win the Stanley Cup*

[Duckus]

48-50 in three+ months.

Nice.

This might get me killed on here, but I hate the NHL 82 game schedule. Way too long. I sort of love the idea of 50 game season.

[Hersh]

Nice.

This might get me killed on here, but I hate the NHL 82 game schedule. Way too long. I sort of love the idea of 50 game season.

The NBA, MLB and NHL seasons should all be shorter. The one part of the new cba I don't like is the lottery system for the draft.

[SpringfieldSkins]

The NBA, MLB and NHL seasons should all be shorter. The one part of the new cba I don't like is the lottery system for the draft.

Isn't it largely the same?

[Hersh]

Isn't it largely the same?

Before only the worst 5 teams could win the 1st pick. Now any team that doesn't make the playoffs can win the lottery. Some good teams don't always make the playoffs and don't need to be eligible for the 1st pick in the draft imo.

[darklight1216]

I'd like a shorter schedule too. Most of the games just don't seem to matter.

[Ellis]

wooohooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!

Let's Go, CAPS!!!

[Sticksboi05]

NHL is back right on time since Skins season is over and the Wiz...lol.

[Botched]

Word. It's perfect timing. Lovin it.

[ixcuincle]

I can't wait for it to begin

About a week or two for training camps then we have a go

[MattFancy]

So how is the schedule going to work out? Just play the already in place schedule or are they going to re-do it?

[ixcuincle]

They re-do it to focus on conference teams and division teams or something like that

[HBnotBlades]

I read that it will be a home and away against each team in the conference and the rest of the games will be in the division. So get ready for a whole lot of Hurricanes, Panthers, Lightning, and Jets.

[endzone_dave]

I read that it will be a home and away against each team in the conference and the rest of the games will be in the division. So get ready for a whole lot of Hurricanes, Panthers, Lightning, and Jets.

This will be the worst part. The Caps don't deserve to be stuck with these teams.

[HBnotBlades]

This will be the worst part. The Caps don't deserve to be stuck with these teams.

That's why I was so pumped about the proposed realignment, I want to be back with our old Patrick Division rivals.

[ixcuincle]

Why is Winnipeg still in the division :ols:

Weren't they supposed to re-align and get out

[Maxito]

Why is Winnipeg still in the division :ols:

Weren't they supposed to re-align and get out

The NHLPA didn't agree with the realignment plan that the NHL agreed upon. I'm assuming that they will talk about it next offseason.

[Ellis]

48 interconference games beginning on January 19th.

[PleaseBlitz]

So what is the thinking on the style of play with the new coaching staff? I know of Oates as an magician on the ice, I have no idea about his coaching style.

[HBnotBlades]

So what is the thinking on the style of play with the new coaching staff? I know of Oates as an magician on the ice, I have no idea about his coaching style.

I'm hoping he can do with OV what he's helped do with Kovalchuk. Help him become a steady and consistent defensive presence while not hampering his offensive creativity.

[PleaseBlitz]

Do we have any sense of what kind of offensive and defensive systems he is going to run?

[pjfootballer]

20 games vs the rest of the East and 7 games vs each division foe.

[ixcuincle]

We are lucky that Ovechkin already came back, because teams like the Devils might not get Kovalchuk back from the KHL :ols:

[Lloyds' Mongolian Beef]

Capitals Digital Season-Ticket Card Package Update

Thank you for your continued support of the Washington Capitals. Digital season-ticket card package shipments will begin today Monday, January 7 and will continue for roughly a week after that. By now you should have received an email with a FedEx tracking number so you can know when to expect your tickets. They will be shipped FedEx 2-day without a signature required.

As a reminder from our communication in October, this year you will receive a digital season-ticket card that will provide you with an easier method for managing your season tickets. Your digital season-ticket card can be scanned at any of our entrance gates, granting you access into Verizon Center for every Caps game.

This new technology will make using your tickets faster and easier than ever before. And as an added bonus for all of your continued support and loyalty, all of the features of My Capitals Online Account Manager will now be FREE. You will now be able to print your tickets at home and forward your tickets without paying a single fee. Your season-ticket card will now eliminate the hassle of digging through your ticket book for the correct game, forgetting your tickets at your home/office, or trying to coordinate the hand-off of tickets to friends and family.

New for 2013, when you sell your tickets via NHL Ticket Exchange the seller fee charged will now be cut in half compared to what was charged previously.

Also new for 2013 will be an enhanced Capitals Online Account Manager. These new enhanced features will help you better manage your tickets with printing and forwarding. Within your digital season-ticket card package shipments you will find a brochure outlining the printing and forwarding process that were available under the previous version of Account Manager. Late last week Ticketmaster introduced a new version of Account Manager with the new features noted above. Please remove and discard that brochure as it reflects the old process for both printing and forwarding digital tickets. Updated step-by-step instructions and tutorials can be found on the Capitals Digital Ticketing page.

Games will be active online in Account Manager within four to five business days once a season schedule has been confirmed and released. We anticipate season-tickets holders having access to their online account manager and its full functions early next week. We appreciate your continued loyalty to Capitals hockey and your support in helping the Capitals preserve the environment.

Below are some Digital Ticket Card FAQ's:

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING TO GET INTO THE GAME?

Your season-ticket seats are automatically loaded onto your red Digital Season-Ticket Card (pictured below; the card should include your name, account number, and loyalty level). You will receive one Digital Season-Ticket Card per account that will include all of your seats loaded onto your single card. Bring this card with you to the game and present it to Verizon Center staff at the gate. Your card will be swiped and all valid seats for the game will be immediately scanned in as soon as the card is swiped.




You'll receive a seat locator tab for each seat (pictured below) and will be all set to visit any of the concession stands on the concourse or go straight to your seat. Upon arrival at your section, please show the seat locator tab to the Verizon Center usher for assistance.



MY GUEST/SEAT-MATE AND I ARE COMING SEPARATELY; WHAT DO I DO?

Using your online Capitals Account Manager, you can use two convenient options to get your guest his/her ticket(s) to the game. Simply log in to your account using the Account ID found on your red Season-Ticket Card and your Password (if you don't know your password, please reply to this email and we'd be happy to send it to you). Then, click "Manage My Tickets". Use either of these two convenient options to get your guest his/her ticket(s) - all the way up until one minute before game time!:

FORWARD: Utilizing either the calendar view or the list view to see your upcoming events choose the game you’d like to manage, and click on “transfer tickets” in the select an action dropdown. Select the tickets you want to transfer and hit the “done” button. The tickets you’ve selected are now stored in your queue in the upper right. You can now select additional games or seats or continue the process of transferring your tickets. Once you have selected all your seats or games enter your recipient information, and hit “Add”. Your recipient is now stored in your contacts, and you can select them to transfer the tickets to. Once you have selected your recipient you must confirm your email reminder and price options, and hit “next step”. Your last step is to confirm all your transfer details and hit “complete transfer”. Once these steps are complete you will receive an email confirming that you have forwarded your tickets.

Your work is done! Your guest will receive an email offer for the ticket(s) you sent. Your guest will click "Accept Tickets" from the email, enter his/her information to log into or create a Capitals Online Account using the same email address which the tickets were sent to. They may then choose to print a paper copy of the ticket(s) or assign them to the credit/debit card of their choice (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover) to swipe upon arrival, and he/she also has the freedom of having the ticket(s) in his/her name to manage online. Once the ticket(s) are accepted by your guest, only your personal ticket will be on your Season-Ticket Card, and you and your guest can now come to the game separately.

PRINT: Utilize either the calendar view or the list view to see your upcoming events choose the game you’d like to manage, and click on “print tickets” in the select an action dropdown. Select the tickets you want to print and hit the “done” button. The tickets you’ve selected are now stored in your queue in the upper right. You can now select additional games or seats or continue the process of printing your tickets. Once you have selected all your tickets and or games and you click print your tickets will open as PDF to either be printed immediately, or saved on your computer for later printing. Once these steps are complete you will receive an email confirming that you have printed your tickets.

If you are planning to use these printed tickets for a guest you can immediately open and print the ticket(s) and give them to him/her in person, via mail, or leave them at the will call window under his/her name when you arrive at Verizon Center. You can also send the saved PDF file over email; remember, your guest will need to print paper tickets from this PDF file to enter.

I LEFT MY CARD AT HOME OR AT WORK - WHAT DO I DO?

If you have access to a printer, use your online Capitals Account Manager to log in and use the PRINT function to print out paper copies of your ticket(s) for the game.

If you don't have access to a printer, you can still get in! Log in to your account, select the "view all quick links" drop box on the left-hand side, and select "view/edit settings". On the next screen, select "Manage my paperless tickets". On the next screen, under the "Manage Paperless Ticket" box, select "Add Paperless Ticket". In the "Select a Paperless Ticket Type", choose "Credit Card". Enter the credit or debit card number for any card you normally keep in your wallet, and click "Save". Return to the main page of your account by clicking "Home". You're now ready to move any seats you have in your account directly to your credit card to swipe for entry at the game!

On the home page, select "Manage My Tickets". Click the checkbox next to the ticket(s) you need to move to your credit card. Click "Paperless". On the next screen, in the "Ticket Options" box, select "Paperless Ticket(s)". In the "Select a card" delivery method drop-down box, choose the credit card you just added to your account, then click the blue "Continue" button. On the next screen, click "Continue". Your ticket(s) have just been transferred to your credit card!

If you have any other questions about your Digital Season-Ticket Card or your account, please click here to visit the Capitals Digital Ticketing page or contact our Guest Services Department at 202.266.2350 or your Guest Services Specialist directly between 9 AM - 5:30 PM Monday through Friday. We're happy to help!

Thank you for your support of the Washington Capitals- we hope to see you at Verizon Center soon. Let's Go Caps!

[Ellis]

It will be interesting to see Rick Nash with the Rangers this season.

We should see the Caps vs Rangers at least twice in the regular season.

[ixcuincle]

http://twitter.com/DanHellie/statuses/288751844535193600

If Backstrom isn't healthy the Caps are in Trouble. wapo.st/UUtDAx

[HBnotBlades]

Yea, Backstrom is a bit of a question mark. He was reported to have some sort of neck injury in the KHL, but rumor was that he would be out a couple weeks. Unfortunately there have been no real updates.

[DCchillin89]

lol @ Backstrom and this whole DC injury thing...

Backstrom>Werth/Strasburg>Wall>RG3>now backstrom again

[endzone_dave]

Yea, Backstrom is a bit of a question mark. He was reported to have some sort of neck injury in the KHL, but rumor was that he would be out a couple weeks. Unfortunately there have been no real updates.

A couple of weeks will turn into a couple of months. All DC sports injuries are like that.

[pjfootballer]

Is the schedule out?

[ixcuincle]

It's coming out soon.

http://i.imgur.com/grKPD.jpg

"Am I really the prettiest here, again?" :ols:

[pjfootballer]

Ovie is engaged and happy. Hopefully he'll be back to his old self under Oates in the ice. Worried that Backstrom is hurt.

[More Complete]

They ever going to get a second-line center?

[HBnotBlades]

They ever going to get a second-line center?

They picked up Ribeiro this year, he should slot nicely in that 2nd line center role as long as Backstrom can play ahead of him.

[More Complete]

They picked up Ribeiro this year, he should slot nicely in that 2nd line center role as long as Backstrom can play ahead of him.

That's right! Guess he might be playing on the first line if Backstrom doesn't get healthy soon. Fingers crossed.

[frostyj]

Is the schedule out?

It will coming out as soon as the players ratify the agreement. It will be East vs East, West vs. West. There was a break down like 4 teams will be played 5 times and so forth, but can't remember I heard in on the radio.

[skinsfan_1215]

Ok. Haven't paid a ton of attention to hockey since the end of last season, including Caps personnel moves. So help me out.

Reasons I should be optimistic about the Caps this year: ?

Reasons I should be pessimistic about the Caps this year: (other than recent history) ?

[SpringfieldSkins]

I wouldn't be too optimistic about this season. We have a second line center but lost our scoring threat on the second line.

Next season should see a decent influx of youth if all goes well.

[pjfootballer]

It will coming out as soon as the players ratify the agreement. It will be East vs East, West vs. West. There was a break down like 4 teams will be played 5 times and so forth, but can't remember I heard in on the radio.

Yeah, I think 7 vs your division and home and home agains the other 2 divisions in your conference.

[lovetoaster]

Good to see Backstrom on the ice, per a photo on the Caps Facebook page.

[DC9]

Good to see Backstrom on the ice, per a photo on the Caps Facebook page.

Yeah, but I heard yesterday he was going to see a specialist about concussion syptoms sometime this weekend. Oye.

[Hersh]

Reasons I should be optimistic about the Caps this year: ?


Great young goaltenders and still explosive scorers under a new system with Adam Oates as head coach. Backstrom appears to be full go according to the Post reporting from practice today. If Backstrom and Green are healthy all year, I expect big bounce back years from them.

---------- Post added January-11th-2013 at 03:35 PM ----------


Yeah, but I heard yesterday he was going to see a specialist about concussion syptoms sometime this weekend. Oye.

Backstrom skating with team today (http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capitals-insider/wp/2013/01/11/nicklas-backstrom-skating-with-caps/)




That Backstrom is skating with no apparent hesitation or limits, though, offers the indication that perhaps he avoided significant harm. Friday marks his first skate in Washington since he returned to North America Sunday

More at link

[lovetoaster]

Man, that could be really good news about Backstrom. Hopefully we will hear more this weekend. Thanks for the link, Hersh.

[DC9]

More at link

Good link! Didn't know Hamrlik was still on the team. Hahaha. I will still keep my fingers crossed on Backy. The fact that he's skating is good, but you never know with these guys until they see a doc.


The players who have skated at Kettler this week but aren’t on the ice Friday include: Alex Ovechkin, Karl Alzner, John Carlson, Jay Beagle, John Erskine and Mike Green, who hasn’t skated the past two days.

And these mother ****ers were all probably out on the town last night... hopefully they got that all out of the way. This is going to be a sprint and these guys can't afford to be the "Kings of Arlington" this season if they want to do anything substantial.

[ixcuincle]

FIOS set up cable yesterday

Ready to watch Joe B and Locker in HD like normal people

[skinsdomination09]

Caps are opening next Saturday @ Tampa Bay (lightning)

[Popeman38]

Caps are opening next Saturday @ Tampa Bay (lightning)Where you get this from?

[ixcuincle]

Info is from here (http://hfboards.hockeysfuture.com/showthread.php?t=1320395) but Tampa is unconfirmed

Schedule might come out later officially...probably on Sunday

[DC9]

Caps are opening next Saturday @ Tampa Bay (lightning)

Yeah I heard we are opening vs the Panthers?

---------- Post added January-11th-2013 at 11:27 AM ----------


FIOS set up cable yesterday

Ready to watch Joe B and Locker in HD like normal people

Dude, I can't wait to hear Joe B. My flask has been in the freezer and I've skated my roller blades to nubs during this lockout. :)

[skinsdomination09]

Via Hockey HF boards (which is really a terrific forum with amazing sources)

likely but not confirmed opening day schedule

WEST

Blackhawks @ Kings
Flames @ Oilers
Avalanche @ Wild
Red Wings @ Blues
Ducks @ Canucks
Coyotes @ Stars
Blue Jackets @ Predators

Odd team out: Sharks

EAST

Penguins @ Flyers
Capitals @ Lightning
Rangers @ Bruins
Maple Leafs @ Canadiens
Senators @ Jets
Devils @ Islanders
Hurricanes @ Panthers

Odd team out: Sabres

Other teams' home openers

Jan 20
Flyers @ Sabres
Sharks @ Flames

Jan 21
Red Wings @ Blue Jackets

Jan 22
Hurricanes

Jan 24
Red Wings
Sharks

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

For those wondering, Nick is fine

He said he had no concussion

[SpringfieldSkins]

Eric Fehr is back.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Eric Fehr is back.

saw that earlier. I'm really excited about that. I loved his game because he adds a good amount of secondary scoring.

Him and Wolski are gonna be x factors

[ixcuincle]

Lockout is officially over. Later tonight, the League will release the schedule.

---------- Post added January-12th-2013 at 10:49 PM ----------

http://twitter.com/WaltonCaps/statuses/290304172459450368

We're off to Tampa! Opening night next Saturday, Caps/Bolts at 7:00, one hour pregame starts at 6:00 on 1500 AM and 106.7 The Fan. #Caps

Just put me in a time machine and set the date for next week

Should be a good game against Stamkos and Tampa

---------- Post added January-12th-2013 at 10:52 PM ----------

Caps home opener Jan 22 against Winnipeg

Full schedule here http://www.nhl.com/ice/schedulebyweek.htm#?navid=nav-sch-main

---------- Post added January-12th-2013 at 11:07 PM ----------

Caps Penguins 12:30 PM Super Bowl Sunday

[skinswillwin06]

Couple oddities...

They play at Winnipeg two nights in a row.

Also play the Devils at home twice in three nights.

Doesn't quite rival the time we played the Hurricanes three times in a row, but close.

[RonArtest15]

Couple oddities...

They play at Winnipeg two nights in a row.

Also play the Devils at home twice in three nights.

Doesn't quite rival the time we played the Hurricanes three times in a row, but close.

We'll probably see some real bad blood (inter-conference) develop over the course of this season. NEW rivalries will form.

[Redskin4ever]

We'll probably see some real bad blood (inter-conference) develop over the course of this season. NEW rivalries will form.

It sucks that there are no weekend games against @Carolina. I was hoping for an easy trip to see the Caps locally. I guess I'll just have to leave work early to get to the weeknight games.

[lovetoaster]

It sucks that there are no weekend games against @Carolina. I was hoping for an easy trip to see the Caps locally. I guess I'll just have to leave work early to get to the weeknight games.

Haha, yeah that was the first thing I looked for as well. Looks like I will be taking the day off after that Thursday game. :)

[nehneh]

Found this on ESPN Rumors Page. A little insight on the deal he could sign.


Fehr's new (old) gig
3:45
PM ET
Washington Capitals
RECOMMEND0COMMENTS0EMAIL

Forward Eric Fehr won't be an unrestricted free agent for much longer.

According to Katie Carrera of the Washington Post, the 27-year-old winger is about to re-join the team that drafted him.

"... The Washington Capitals have invited Fehr to training camp with the intention of signing him to a prorated one-year, $600,000 contract once he passes a physical, according to a team source. The move cannot be made until the NHL lockout officially ends with both sides signing a memorandum of understanding, which is expected to occur Saturday ..."

After six seasons in Washington, the Capitals dealt Fehr to the Winnipeg Jets in summer 2011. The former WHL star enjoyed a fairly productive work stoppage -- collecting 25 points in 21 games with Finnish squad Hameenlinnan Pallokerho (SM-Liiga).

[HBnotBlades]

Found this on ESPN Rumors Page. A little insight on the deal he could sign.

I think Fehr is a pretty good signing. He's a great locker room guy and can fill in on the 2nd line while Laich is sidelined to start the season.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Fehr can play the top two lines if needed.

I always liked him and with the lack of secondary scoring last season, I think he's due for a big year.

And like I said earlier, I am a huge Woljtek Wolski fan for some reason lol

[RonArtest15]

Fehr can play the top two lines if needed.

I always liked him and with the lack of secondary scoring last season, I think he's due for a big year.

And like I said earlier, I am a huge Woljtek Wolski fan for some reason lol

I think Fehr is due for a big year every year LOL. At this point, he is what he is. I see him getting scratched w/ regularity.

[Pick6]

So from what I have read it looks like Brooks Laich will miss 1 to 2 weeks of the start of the season.

[SpringfieldSkins]

I'm excited for hockey to start back up.

I for one, think that Ovechkin will be in great shape.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

So from what I have read it looks like Brooks Laich will miss 1 to 2 weeks of the start of the season.

DC sports can't ever have everyone healthy huh? lol

[OU_skins]

Anyone know if the scrimage tomorrow vs the ECHL team will be a full 3 period game with referees and everything?

[Gallen5862]

What does anyone think of the Carolina Hurricanes? I think the Hurricanes improved alot between getting Jordan Staal plus their trades on the first day of training camp.

[http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/01/14/2604923/a-busy-first-day-for-the-carolina.html

A busy first day for the Carolina Hurricanes


RALEIGH -- Talk about having a busy first day.
The Carolina Hurricanes packed a lot into Sunday. They made an early trade, sending goalie Brian Boucher and defensive prospect Mark Alt to the Philadelphia Flyers for forward Luke Pither. They signed goalie Dan Ellis to a one-year contract. They dealt forward Anthony Stewart to the Los Angeles Kings for forward Kevin Westgarth.
Westgarth, the son-in-law of former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher, lives in Raleigh in the offseason. He’s a big guy at 6-4 and 234 pounds who should give the Canes that added grit in the lineup that general manager Jim Rutherford has been seeking.

Read more here: http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/01/...#storylink=cpy

[SpringfieldSkins]

Also, Ovechkin has been prescribing on right Wong from what I hear. This seems rather interesting.

[lovetoaster]

Also, Ovechkin has been prescribing on right Wong from what I hear. This seems rather interesting.

This post really confused me at first. :)

[SpringfieldSkins]

This post really confused me at first. :)

Damn you autocorrect!

He has been practicing at right wing.

[lovetoaster]

Damn you autocorrect!

He has been practicing at right wing.

Haha...yeah, I figured it out after a sec. I was trying to figure out what Ovie was prescribing former Caps trainer Stan Wong. ;)

[Popeman38]

@SkyKerstein: Pic of #Caps Ovi and MJ90 down, Ovi in dressing room now, looked to be bleeding, MJ90 on bench pic.twitter.com/jrC2Oa46

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BAqWYW9CcAE043D.jpg

[just654]

Ovi back and has a goal and an assist

Mike Vogel ‏@VogsCaps
This time Ovi feeds Backstrom perfectly on a 2-on-1, #Caps up 3-0.

Mike Vogel ‏@VogsCaps
Ovi scores on a bomb of a one-timer. It's 2-0, #Caps

[Bibby]

Russian Machine Never Breaks. Reports seem to say every body is okay and back out on the ice against Reading.

I got a 3 game partial season ticket package. I'm pumped to get back to the Verizon Center and that great Caps atmosphere.

[Pick6]

Russian Machine Never Breaks. Reports seem to say every body is okay and back out on the ice against Reading.

I got a 3 game partial season ticket package. I'm pumped to get back to the Verizon Center and that great Caps atmosphere.

I got a 3 game package too. Which one did you get or did you pick your top 3 options and waiting for which one you get?

[skinsfan07]

Very excite for Saturday. Glad Backstrom is healthy.

[Bibby]

I got a 3 game package too. Which one did you get or did you pick your top 3 options and waiting for which one you get?

I got the Florida, Boston, and Tampa Bay option. It was between that and package F which was Buffalo, Carolina, and Winnipeg. I only got one ticket and went with the cheapest option, which is probably why my selection was limited. I'm in Section 422 Row K.

[Pick6]

I got the Florida, Boston, and Tampa Bay option. It was between that and package F which was Buffalo, Carolina, and Winnipeg. I only got one ticket and went with the cheapest option, which is probably why my selection was limited. I'm in Section 422 Row K.

I put in for the Flyers package, the Penguins package, and package F. I haven't heard back yet.

[heyholetsgogrant]

Scott Gomez and Wade Redden are one step closer to becoming free agents.

The players cleared waivers on Thursday and are expected to be bought out by the Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers respectively.

Source: TSN
Full Article Click here:
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=413769

Any Takers?

Also, did anyone read the Forbes article where the Caps 1 million last year? NO way in hell that has to be true:
http://www.forbes.com/pictures/mlm45eghlh/11-washington-capitals/

[Bibby]

Source: TSN
Full Article Click here:
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=413769

Any Takers?

Also, did anyone read the Forbes article where the Caps 1 million last year? NO way in hell that has to be true:
http://www.forbes.com/pictures/mlm45eghlh/11-washington-capitals/

I'm not sure about Gomez. His production is completely non-exsistent. I don't know if he just stopped trying and wanted to collect the big time pay from Montreal or if he just became older and lost it. I'm not really interested in him, honestly.

[ixcuincle]

Theyr'e both old men

Kind of wary

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Hey guys,

as part of my sports marketing course for the term, I have to create a survey about a sports event that will be taking place in the next 2 weeks. I picked the game tomorrow since everyone else in my class is picking one of the two title games on Sunday.

So I am asking you guys would like to participate in it.

I'll just create a post after the game with a bunch of questions and if you could answer them and give a little info about yourself, it would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys

[HBnotBlades]

I'm not sure about Gomez. His production is completely non-exsistent. I don't know if he just stopped trying and wanted to collect the big time pay from Montreal or if he just became older and lost it. I'm not really interested in him, honestly.

I wouldn't be opposed to Gomez if we need to fill a 3rd line center role for a while. He can't shoot the puck to save his life, but he's still solid in his own zone and moves the puck well. He could certainly find a spot as a role player now that he isn't under an absurd $7M a year deal.


Hey guys,

as part of my sports marketing course for the term, I have to create a survey...

I'd do it. You might also consider setting up a survey monkey questionare. It's easy to use and easy to pass around the link.

[ixcuincle]

I'll do it later

Redden to Blues, Gomez to ?

Again I like the team we have going now and good luck to them tomorrow, looking forward to it.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

FWIW, I picked up Gomez on my franchise for NHL 12 last year lol

He was amazing

[pjfootballer]

Anyone have the possible line combinations on offense and defense for this game/year?

[PleaseBlitz]

Looks like:

Johansson-Backy-OV
Wolski-Ribeiro-Brouwer
Chimera-Beagle-Ward
Hendricks-Perreault-Fehr?

Defense
Alzner-Carlson
Hamrlik-Green
Schultz-Erkine?

[pjfootballer]

Thanks PB.

[PleaseBlitz]

Lots of buzz about the 1-3-1 power play:

http://dumpnchase.com/?p=2009

http://www.japersrink.com/2013/1/18/3888886/capitals-1-3-1-power-play-oates-ovechkin

---------- Post added January-18th-2013 at 04:58 PM ----------


Thanks PB.

Fer sure. Clearly, at this point we don't know where Laich will fit in when he's back or if the rookies/young guys (Crabb, Wilson, Schilling, Hillen) will crack the lineup.

Personally, I am looking forward to seeing that 2nd line, I havent seen Wolski or Ribiero play much.

[SpringfieldSkins]

Ribiero was playing at Reston before one of my games a few weeks ago. There was a bit of a buzz in the stands on the Olympic rink and I was wondering what was going on. I didn't get to see him play but apparently he got smoked by some guy on the other team, just blew right past him.

I'm anxious to see Ovechkin on the right wing.

[skinsdomination09]

Lots of buzz about the 1-3-1 power play:

http://dumpnchase.com/?p=2009

http://www.japersrink.com/2013/1/18/3888886/capitals-1-3-1-power-play-oates-ovechkin

---------- Post added January-18th-2013 at 04:58 PM ----------



Fer sure. Clearly, at this point we don't know where Laich will fit in when he's back or if the rookies/young guys (Crabb, Wilson, Schilling, Hillen) will crack the lineup.

Personally, I am looking forward to seeing that 2nd line, I havent seen Wolski or Ribiero play much.

Wow... Wolski on the PP.

Mark my words: Wolski will have a monster year. On a second line, with a top tier C (Ribiero is a GREAT passer) I really think we will see the resurgence of Wolski. I don't think he'll miss a beat filling in for Semin

BTW - can anybody explain to me why Joel Ward is on the PP (2nd line) ??

[HBnotBlades]

I'd like to see more of the 1-3-1 on the powerplay. As a goalie, it's a pain the butt to play against when a team runs it well. There's always a guy screening, and if the PK players let the puck get to the guy in the slot it's a very difficult save to make. It can create a lot of opportunities and create them quickly. On the flip side, a turnover can quickly turn into a 2 on1 in the other direction. It's important to be smart and make the plays that are there.

I think it should fit the Caps quite well as long as they have Mike Green on the point. He's a strong enough passer that teams won't want to push out on him too far and leave someone else open.

[SpringfieldSkins]

I was always wondering if the Caps would switch to a 1-3-1 with Oates in town.

[PleaseBlitz]

BTW - can anybody explain to me why Joel Ward is on the PP (2nd line) ??

Same reason Brouwer is in the middle on the first PP Unit. You need a big body in that middle spot. Ward is 6'1 225. The only Cap forward bigger than Ward is OV, who obviously needs to be along the half wall. That spot is really just there to attract defensive attention, but he's got to be big enough to not get moved out of the way.


BTW, I REALLY hope you are right about Wolski. That would be awesome if he's a real threat and can bank 30 goals this year.

[Sticksboi05]

Wow... Wolski on the PP.

Mark my words: Wolski will have a monster year. On a second line, with a top tier C (Ribiero is a GREAT passer) I really think we will see the resurgence of Wolski. I don't think he'll miss a beat filling in for Semin

BTW - can anybody explain to me why Joel Ward is on the PP (2nd line) ??

Semin is a PPG+ player when everything's clicking. Wolski is not as good or close actually. But the addition of an elite passer like Ribeiro will help.

[skinsdomination09]

Semin is a PPG+ player when everything's clicking. Wolski is not as good or close actually. But the addition of an elite passer like Ribeiro will help.

Yeah that's true, but he has an awesome name so he'll tear it up for sure.

[BayouBrave86]

Feelin good vibes about this season. Our top 3 players essentially bottomed out last year and we still made it to the 2nd round and fought til the bitter end. Just wish Ribeiro had a talented wing to pass to. And Laich is not that guy.

[Zazzaro703]

Getting worried as my stupid NHL gamecenter premium wont connect to any games. Pay 50 bucks and still have to stream off crappy websites. Awesome.

Edit: Seems I'm not the only one. So this is how the NHL rewards its fans after having to sit out a ridiculous lockout? Charge people for a rubbish service that they can't even have running opening day? I'm starting to get sick of professional sports altogether it's such a shame i love the Redskins and Capitals as much as i do so i can't walk away..... and that's why they get away with the crap that they do.

[OU_skins]

It boggles my mind that NHL Center Ice is still not in HD. I bought it like 4 years ago and couldn't believe it. How is it possibly still not in HD? I've had it on Time Warner and FIOS. Not sure if that makes a difference.

[SpringfieldSkins]

Looks to me like the refs are clamping back down and actually calling penalties how they should be called. I've noticed a ton of interference and obstruction type penalties that I wouldn't have expected last season.

Early call, Ovechkin has a 100 point season this year. Old OV will be back.

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 05:29 PM ----------

Oh wait... Half a season...

Make that a 50 point year.

[KDawg]

Looks to me like the refs are clamping back down and actually calling penalties how they should be called. I've noticed a ton of interference and obstruction type penalties that I wouldn't have expected last season.

Early call, Ovechkin has a 100 point season this year. Old OV will be back.

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 05:29 PM ----------

Oh wait... Half a season...

Make that a 50 point year.

58 points in this season is roughly equivalent to a 100 point year in a full season. That would be very impressive.

[ixcuincle]

It boggles my mind that NHL Center Ice is still not in HD. I bought it like 4 years ago and couldn't believe it. How is it possibly still not in HD? I've had it on Time Warner and FIOS. Not sure if that makes a difference.

It be in HD here. I checked earlier.

Some stations are in HD and some aren't. They had like 4 of them in HD and 10 which weren't.

BTW, there's a free preview of Centre Ice until Jan 31st. So good news for everyone

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 06:26 PM ----------


Getting worried as my stupid NHL gamecenter premium wont connect to any games. Pay 50 bucks and still have to stream off crappy websites. Awesome.

Edit: Seems I'm not the only one. So this is how the NHL rewards its fans after having to sit out a ridiculous lockout? Charge people for a rubbish service that they can't even have running opening day? I'm starting to get sick of professional sports altogether it's such a shame i love the Redskins and Capitals as much as i do so i can't walk away..... and that's why they get away with the crap that they do.

I was kind of reluctant to put out 50 bucks on either Centre ICe or Gamecenter. Centre ice looks good from the preview, though.

[Lloyds' Mongolian Beef]

Good to see Laughlin and Joe B again. I'm more excited than I expected.

[SpringfieldSkins]

58 points in this season is roughly equivalent to a 100 point year in a full season. That would be very impressive.

Book it. 60 points. Fury, unleashed.

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 07:12 PM ----------

And that is how the sport is supposed to be called.

Say hello to high scoring hockey again.

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 07:15 PM ----------

Like I was saying.

Enough of bull**** hockey.

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 07:22 PM ----------

Well, Holtby is Swiss cheese. Season's over.

;)

[Lloyds' Mongolian Beef]

I hate you Jeff Schultz

[SpringfieldSkins]

But yet another penalty.

At least teams won't be able to cheat their way to victory this season.

[Lloyds' Mongolian Beef]

But yet another penalty.

At least teams won't be able to cheat their way to victory this season.The problem is that changes once the playoffs start.

[MonkFan8]

Unimpressive start for the defense.

Really just gonna let Malone take the puck at the net there?

[SpringfieldSkins]

The problem is that changes once the playoffs start.

So?

I'd rather not watch 48 boring ass games.

[Lloyds' Mongolian Beef]

So?

I'd rather not watch 48 boring ass games.In the past, we relied on our PP and when those penalties weren't called in the playoffs, we struggled. Last year was different but that didn't work out either.

[SpringfieldSkins]

In the past, we relied on our PP and when those penalties weren't called in the playoffs, we struggled. Last year was different but that didn't work out either.

Exactly my point. If we're going to lose in the playoffs anyway, I'd rather have a fun regular season. However, we could possibly play well in the playoffs in the off chance as well.

Either way, this is the way that the game should be called.

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 07:43 PM ----------

Ovechkin on the PK... Impressed.

[skinsdomination09]

1st period observation:

D looks rusty.

Ribiero is sooo shifty and I think he will be amazing here. I like that 2nd line.

Lightning got some good bounces.

[DCsportsfan53]

I thought the first period was a good start to Oates tenure. Some sloppiness on both sides but I loved our pick possession and board play, two things missing for a long time around here.

[Btubes18]

Our stars have to play better...

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Just got home...what is going on with the D?

[SpringfieldSkins]

Just got home...what is going on with the D?

They've been trapping us in the zone for a bit. It hasn't been like this all game long.

[MonkFan8]

Just got home...what is going on with the D?Essentially same old same old, except the old is now a year older. Schultz/Hamrlik really look awful and Hillen is probably the smallest D I've ever seen.

What's the deal with Orlov? Anyone have a timeframe?

[Btubes18]

I feel like Tampa bay just has our number. We just don't play we'll against them.

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 08:48 PM ----------

What the ****.."embellishment"?

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 08:48 PM ----------

Woohoo sh goal

[MonkFan8]

Woohoo sh goalIt was 4 on 4.

Nice drive to the net by Ribeiro.

[skinsdomination09]

I feel like Tampa bay just has our number. We just don't play we'll against them.

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 08:48 PM ----------

What the ****.."embellishment"?

---------- Post added January-19th-2013 at 08:48 PM ----------

Woohoo sh goal

Getting a goal on that 4 vs 4 was justice at it's best.

BS call

[Btubes18]

It was 4 on 4.

Nice drive to the net by Ribeiro.

Yup...I like what I see from him. Still think our studs need to play better.

[Heisenberg]

Holtby has looked awful IMO and is lucky they haven't scored 5 goals or more since they've missed some wide open nets.

[Btubes18]

Holtby has looked awful IMO and is lucky they haven't scored 5 goals or more since they've missed some wide open nets.

Agreed...too dramatic.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

St. Louis ALWAYS kills us...

[MonkFan8]

Extraordinarily unimpressive. MoJo should never be on the top line.

[More Complete]

What is wrong with Holtby? Does not look the same.

[Zazzaro703]

Seen this Capitals team the last 5 years.

[ixcuincle]

Disappointing goaltending tonight

[Heisenberg]

Ugh, Holtby is going to have to prove he can be a competent goaltender when he's not playing behind the Dale Hunter ridiculously conservative style. Also, lots of games to go but if they're only going to score 3 goals in a game where Joel Ward gives them 2 then I'm going to be concerned about the offense as well. I've had my concerns about the Caps going into this season but I'm hoping this is just a case of being a bit rusty. Hope Orlov comes back quickly.

[Btubes18]

I will give them a pass tonight, however if they come out like on Tuesday, I will be pissed.

[BRAVEONTHEWARPATH93]

Seen this Capitals team the last 5 years.

it's one game dude

[HBnotBlades]

I don't think the goaltending was all that bad. The only goal I think Holtby should have had was the first one, after that there was a deflection goal, a screened goal in which he had no chance, and three goals where a forward got the puck on his stick directly in front of the crease. There were a lot of goals that Holtby played actually perfectly, but sometimes it just doesn't go your way.

The defense... was not good. Far, far worse than the goaltending. Then again, they've only practiced for a few days and are completely changing systems. My expectations are definitely low for the first few games.

[endzone_dave]

That game sucked. Ovi might as well have stayed in the KHL. Just one game though but they don't want to lose the next one and dig themselves a hole.

[Bibby]

I'll chalk this one up as rust due to the lockout. Actually, I'm probably going to give them another three games win or lose. But the entire team just didn't look good. Sloopy passes and line shifts. Goaltending and defense I'd just like to forget about. It is nice to see our guys shoot at the net though.

[Warhead36]

It's one game. Nothing matters until the postseason.

[dreamshatterer]

It's one game. Nothing matters until the postseason.

Not if they don't make it to the post season which was almost the case last year,

[endzone_dave]

I thought Ovi was completely ineffective on the right side. Maybe he'll start looking with a few more games over there but this might be a short-lived experiment.

[chipwhich]

Not if they don't make it to the post season which was almost the case last year,

I swear Hockey is the only sport where it is obvious people don't get it. I don't know any other sport with so many games where people talk about not making the playoffs after ONE FREAKING GAME.

There can be no intelligent conversation about last nights game.

We have a brand new coach and just came off a lengthened lockout.

In the case of last year our team got better as the team learned hunters style of play. This team will too.

As in EVERY year, we have a question mark at goalie and on our defensive make up.

As for this year, we will be able to talk after 10 games.