The Vancouver Whitecaps made no apologies for securing home-field advantage in the playoffs, almost by default, for the first time in their Major League Soccer history Sunday evening.
The Whitecaps earned a first-round bye as they blanked the Houston Dynamo 3-0 before a sellout crowd of 21,000 at B.C. Place Stadium. The Caps ended a five-game winless skid as they finished second in the Western Conference with a 16-13-5 record. But Vancouver coach Carl Robinson was feeling over the moon – not dwelling on the late-season swoon.
“Obviously, we’re happy,” said Robinson. “I think we got what we deserved. I’m a big believer (that), in this game, if you put your hard work in and you do things right, you get your rewards – and I think we got our rewards today. We deserved to win the game.”
Vancouver caught a break as Sporting Kansas City edged the L.A. Galaxy 2-1, giving second place to the Canadian squad. But Robinson was not doing any scoreboard watching as the Whitecaps used delay tactics for much of the final 10 minutes to preserve the win.
“We didn’t deserve to get to be where we are at the moment if we didn’t win, so I didn’t want to lose my focus, because if I lost my focus, then my players lose their focus,” said Robinson.
Kekuta Manneh gave the Caps the only goal they needed in the 59th minute before Kendall Waston headed home a Christian Techera corner kick in the 72nd minute and Robert Earnshaw headed the final goal in moments after subbing into the game in stoppage time.
The Whitecaps finally connected on some of their chances after failing to finish in the first half, although Techera hit the crossbar 13 minutes into the game. Sporting Kansas City did little in the second half after threatening briefly in the first 45 minutes on a pair of Giles Barnes free kicks and his shot from 20 yards out, which Vancouver goalkeeper David Ousted stopped.
In the first round, Seattle will host L.A. and Sporting Kansas City will travel to Portland in a pair of single-knockout quarter final games. The Whitecaps will then play the first-round winner with the best regular-season record. Dallas will play the victor with the second-best regular-season record. Both semifinals will be two-leg, aggregate-goal series. The winners will then advance to the Western Conference finals and MLS Cup series.
“It’s huge,” said Ousted of the first-round bye. “It gives us a break Wednesday (and Thursday not having to play) that one-off game, and then it certainly gets us into a two-way game (in) which I think our chances are a little bit better than in the one-off.”
Like his coach, Ousted was not apologizing after Vancouver got some help from a temporary friend, Sporting Kansas City. In contrast to the previous three seasons, the Whitecaps secured a playoff berth with weeks to go in the regular season and avoided a mid-summer swoon. But they suffered a late-season slump this year instead.
“I’d say we’ve been lucky when the results have gone our way, but we are also in second because we deserve to be here, because we’re the second-best team in this (conference),” said Ousted. “We’ve showed that over a (season). Maybe, in the last month, we haven’t showed it as much, but we’re here for a reason.”
In other words, he and Robinson believe that things eventually even out and a team’s talent proves itself over the full campaign.
“Over 34 games, the league doesn’t lie,” said Robinson.
Despite being the youngest team in MLS, the Whitecaps endured several injuries – including an ongoing hamstring problem that has forced captain Pedro Morales to miss most of the second half of the season -- and player absences due to suspensions and international duty. In the playoffs for the second year in a row and third time in their history, the Caps will now attempt to prove that they are for real in the post-season.
Vancouver lost do-or-die games to L.A. in 2012 and Dallas in 2014, with the winners both scoring decisive goals on penalty-kicks. Robinson does not want his youthful club just to try and survive in the playoffs. So he has already delivered a distinct message to his charges regarding quest for the MLS Cup.
“Let’s not cope,” he said. “Let’s try and win it.”
Vancouver’s opening series could have some added intrigue, because the Caps have a 50-50 chance of playing regional rival Portland or Seattle. In either case, hundreds of fans would travel to the away legs, adding plenty of colour and hostility to the intense atmosphere.
“It could be a fantastic matchup, either against Timbers or Sounders,” said Ousted. “The fans would enjoy that a lot – and so would I.”
Monday, October 26, 2015
Thursday, June 4, 2015
CSA president hopes Women's World Cup overshadows FIFA scandal
The president of the Canadian Soccer Association hopes the upcoming Women’s World Cup in Canada can help restore the game’s “moral compass” in wake of an alleged $10-million FIFA corruption scandal.
"It's a positive thing that the first tournament after this, whatever happened in the last week, is the Women's World Cup, because women's football is a very pure form of football," Victor Montagliani said Thursday during a tournament-opening press conference at a Vancouver hotel. “And, I think women's football can shine some light on the dark clouds that are hanging over the game."
Montagliani, CSA secretary-general Peter Montopoli and FIFA officials were grilled by reporters in wake of the corruption scandal that resulted in president Sepp Blatter resigning this week after he gained re-election and senior FIFA officials being arrested and indicted in the U.S. and Switzerland last week. Former FIFA official Chuck Blazer has said that he and other officials accepted bribes in relation to the 2010 and 1998 men’s World Cup tournaments.
Repeated requests from a FIFA spokeswoman Thursday to focus on the upcoming tourney fell on deaf ears as the FIFA scandal dominated.
"Whether you call it irony or destiny – I don't know how you want to call it – but I think we should all (be thankful) that it's the Women's World Cup that is immediately following here,” said Montagliani, “because I think it's an opportunity for women's football to shine some light onto the game that, perhaps, has lost a little bit of its moral compass."
At one point, Montagliani insisted the CSA had “absolutely not” bribed officials to earn the right to host the 24-team event in six countries. He said Canada was the only country that bid on the event.
Montagliani also came under questioning for his relationship with provisionally dismissed CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb, who was indicted last week on bribery charges. Before the allegations came to light, said Montagliani, it would be difficult not to respect Webb, who has led anti-racism, fair play and new CONCACAF governance initiatives.
“Now, having said that, if the allegations that came out last week are true, then obviously that will change a lot of people’s opinion,” said Montagliani. “I hope (Webb’s alleged corruption) is not (true), because, obviously, we know there’s no room in the game for those kinds of things.”
Montagliani said he is praying for Webb, once regarded as “the hero of football” and his family. The CSA president previously described both Webb and FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke, who is now accused of negotiating bribes, as an inspiration.
Montagliani contended that he only knew Webb and Valcke through CONCACAF’s executive committee and the CSA’s distance from the alleged scandal is “quite a bit” because it does not get involved in “stuff” like FIFA television rights, and has “due diligence” in place.
He took exception to a Reuters reporter again asking him about Webb, especially after the disgraced CONCACAF boss, had been praised by media in the past.
"With all due respect, you and your colleagues were saying the exact same thing," said Montagliani. "You need to, maybe, look in the mirror a little bit and, maybe, not put people on a pedestal so you can whack the hell out of them after.”
Despite the scandal-related questions, some positive points did emerge from the news conference, putting a positive light on the women’s game itself.
“This is the largest single sporting event for women in the world,” said Montagliani. “We’re very proud and very humbled to be putting on the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada.”
“It’s the first time in our country we are hosting a major international competition from one coast to the other,” added CSA general secretary Peter Montopoli.
He said Saturday’s opening match between Canada and China in Edmonton is trending to be the largest attended senior A soccer match in Canadian history, with more than 52,000 fans slated to attend.
“We’re also looking at this as the largest attended national team match of any sport in our country,” said Montopoli. “So obviously, the opening day, the opening match, is a big day for Canadian soccer, but also Canadian sport.”
He said tickets for the July 5 championship match in Vancouver sold out within 72 hours of tickets going on sale. Meanwhile, all U.S. matches are expected to be a sellout, and 95 per cent of tickets have been sold within North America. Montagliani said ticket sales will surpass 1 million any day now.
However, FIFA officials could not say how much money has been allocated for wining, dining and accommodating FIFA executives, or whether the value of their perks will be higher than proceeds that go to players.
But Tatjana Haenni, head of women’s soccer for FIFA, said a total of $15 million in prize money will be up for grabs. A former player, she hopes this World Cup will lead to more women receiving key decision-making roles.
Montagliani would also like to see the tournament further the push to put a couple of National Women’s Soccer League teams in Canada. The NWSL serves as a development circuit for the Canada, U.S. and Mexican national teams.
Alas, no matter how the FIFA scandal turns out, there is more work to be done before the women’s game will rise to new levels. But, perhaps, for at least a little while, Canada’s 2015 Women’s World Cup can shine some light through those dark clouds.
"It's a positive thing that the first tournament after this, whatever happened in the last week, is the Women's World Cup, because women's football is a very pure form of football," Victor Montagliani said Thursday during a tournament-opening press conference at a Vancouver hotel. “And, I think women's football can shine some light on the dark clouds that are hanging over the game."
Montagliani, CSA secretary-general Peter Montopoli and FIFA officials were grilled by reporters in wake of the corruption scandal that resulted in president Sepp Blatter resigning this week after he gained re-election and senior FIFA officials being arrested and indicted in the U.S. and Switzerland last week. Former FIFA official Chuck Blazer has said that he and other officials accepted bribes in relation to the 2010 and 1998 men’s World Cup tournaments.
Repeated requests from a FIFA spokeswoman Thursday to focus on the upcoming tourney fell on deaf ears as the FIFA scandal dominated.
"Whether you call it irony or destiny – I don't know how you want to call it – but I think we should all (be thankful) that it's the Women's World Cup that is immediately following here,” said Montagliani, “because I think it's an opportunity for women's football to shine some light onto the game that, perhaps, has lost a little bit of its moral compass."
At one point, Montagliani insisted the CSA had “absolutely not” bribed officials to earn the right to host the 24-team event in six countries. He said Canada was the only country that bid on the event.
Montagliani also came under questioning for his relationship with provisionally dismissed CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb, who was indicted last week on bribery charges. Before the allegations came to light, said Montagliani, it would be difficult not to respect Webb, who has led anti-racism, fair play and new CONCACAF governance initiatives.
“Now, having said that, if the allegations that came out last week are true, then obviously that will change a lot of people’s opinion,” said Montagliani. “I hope (Webb’s alleged corruption) is not (true), because, obviously, we know there’s no room in the game for those kinds of things.”
Montagliani said he is praying for Webb, once regarded as “the hero of football” and his family. The CSA president previously described both Webb and FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke, who is now accused of negotiating bribes, as an inspiration.
Montagliani contended that he only knew Webb and Valcke through CONCACAF’s executive committee and the CSA’s distance from the alleged scandal is “quite a bit” because it does not get involved in “stuff” like FIFA television rights, and has “due diligence” in place.
He took exception to a Reuters reporter again asking him about Webb, especially after the disgraced CONCACAF boss, had been praised by media in the past.
"With all due respect, you and your colleagues were saying the exact same thing," said Montagliani. "You need to, maybe, look in the mirror a little bit and, maybe, not put people on a pedestal so you can whack the hell out of them after.”
Despite the scandal-related questions, some positive points did emerge from the news conference, putting a positive light on the women’s game itself.
“This is the largest single sporting event for women in the world,” said Montagliani. “We’re very proud and very humbled to be putting on the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada.”
“It’s the first time in our country we are hosting a major international competition from one coast to the other,” added CSA general secretary Peter Montopoli.
He said Saturday’s opening match between Canada and China in Edmonton is trending to be the largest attended senior A soccer match in Canadian history, with more than 52,000 fans slated to attend.
“We’re also looking at this as the largest attended national team match of any sport in our country,” said Montopoli. “So obviously, the opening day, the opening match, is a big day for Canadian soccer, but also Canadian sport.”
He said tickets for the July 5 championship match in Vancouver sold out within 72 hours of tickets going on sale. Meanwhile, all U.S. matches are expected to be a sellout, and 95 per cent of tickets have been sold within North America. Montagliani said ticket sales will surpass 1 million any day now.
However, FIFA officials could not say how much money has been allocated for wining, dining and accommodating FIFA executives, or whether the value of their perks will be higher than proceeds that go to players.
But Tatjana Haenni, head of women’s soccer for FIFA, said a total of $15 million in prize money will be up for grabs. A former player, she hopes this World Cup will lead to more women receiving key decision-making roles.
Montagliani would also like to see the tournament further the push to put a couple of National Women’s Soccer League teams in Canada. The NWSL serves as a development circuit for the Canada, U.S. and Mexican national teams.
Alas, no matter how the FIFA scandal turns out, there is more work to be done before the women’s game will rise to new levels. But, perhaps, for at least a little while, Canada’s 2015 Women’s World Cup can shine some light through those dark clouds.
Monday, May 18, 2015
Don't be surprised if Babcock joins Leafs
Youth and money will be key talking points as Mike Babcock decides this week whether to remain as coach of the Detroit Red Wings or leave for, not necessarily, greener pastures.
Two key questions will be: Does a team wooing Babcock have enough talent to win in the near future? And, can it meet his salary demands?
Here are some points to ponder on both fronts.
1. Money is not No. 1.
As Babcock has already indicated, the size of his salary will not be the driving force in his decision. Also, the Red Wings can afford to match any offer that he receives elsewhere. Ultimately, Babcock will stay or go based on a team's chance for a championship in the relatively near future and the situation which he feels is the best fit for himself and his family.
2. Detroit has a relatively young roster.
This point will draw criticism from analytics lovers, but the fact is that Detroit's average age is skewed upward by the likes of Henrik Zetterberg, 33, Pavel Datsyuk, 36, Niklas Kronwall, 34, Daniel Cleary, 35, Marek Zidlicky, 37, and Erik Cole, 35. It's wrong to say that the Red Wings are relying too heavily on older players, because only three players over 30 -- Zetterberg, Datsyuk and Kronwall -- played more than 60 games with the Wings this season. Cleary, a model workhorse, played only 17, while Zidlicky and Cole were acquired at the trade deadline, largely for experience and offence, and have uncertain futures. Zatterberg and Datsyuk led the Red Wings offensively with 66 and 65 points, respectively, but Tomas Tatar, 23, had the most goals (29) while Gustav Nyquist, 25, placed second in goal-scoring (27). Also, Tatar and Nyquist placed third and fourth, respectively, in total points.
And, in case anyone forgets, the Wings took the Tampa Bay Lightning -- one of the NHL's youngest and most talented teams -- to overtime in the seventh game of their first-round series before bowing out.
In other words, Detroit's supposedly aging roster should not be used as an excuse if or when Babcock decides to leave Detroit. When it comes to rebuilding, there's momentum in Motown.
3. Babcock can work with young players anywhere.
It's a misconception to think that Babcock will prefer to work with veteran players and limit young players' development and ice time. Nobody has said that he will, but coaches are often accused of preferring veterans over youngsters, and he will probably receive similar treatment from critics as more teams come into the hiring mix.
Babcock has a teaching background, and he has won a Canadian university title with a Lethbridge Pronghorns team that has done little since; a Memorial Cup with junior-aged Spokane Chiefs and a Stanley Cup by developing such future Red Wings stars as Zetterberg, Datsyuk, Kronwall and Jimmy Howard, among others, in their younger days.
The NHL is trending younger, Babcock knows that, and he can adapt.
Accordingly, Edmonton, where junior phenom Connor McDavid will play next season and Buffalo, where future American superstar Jack Eichel is destined to toil, would both be a good fit because they have several emerging young stars. But the Oilers are not considered to be in the running anymore for Babcock, while Buffalo is reportedly in hot pursuit. Toronto does not yet have enough obvious young talent for it to be a strong selling point, but the Leafs will likely make a big push at crunch time due to president Brendan Shanahan's close ties to him.
4. Toronto is a bad fit.
There are too many negatives in Toronto, including a daily media gong show, the absence of a general manager since Dave Nonis was fired, a dysfunctional veteran core and the aforementioned lack of young talent. It could be several years before the Leafs are ready to contend. But, as a rule, coaches love a challenge, and the Maple Leafs pose, arguably, the biggest one in the NHL.
Many coaches would opt not to coach in Toronto because of its hockey heritage and the constant public pressure to win that everyone faces on a daily basis. But Babcock is enough of a contrarian to accept an apparent no-win situation.
So don't be surprised if, after months of speculation, he winds up guiding the Leafs after all.
Two key questions will be: Does a team wooing Babcock have enough talent to win in the near future? And, can it meet his salary demands?
Here are some points to ponder on both fronts.
1. Money is not No. 1.
As Babcock has already indicated, the size of his salary will not be the driving force in his decision. Also, the Red Wings can afford to match any offer that he receives elsewhere. Ultimately, Babcock will stay or go based on a team's chance for a championship in the relatively near future and the situation which he feels is the best fit for himself and his family.
2. Detroit has a relatively young roster.
This point will draw criticism from analytics lovers, but the fact is that Detroit's average age is skewed upward by the likes of Henrik Zetterberg, 33, Pavel Datsyuk, 36, Niklas Kronwall, 34, Daniel Cleary, 35, Marek Zidlicky, 37, and Erik Cole, 35. It's wrong to say that the Red Wings are relying too heavily on older players, because only three players over 30 -- Zetterberg, Datsyuk and Kronwall -- played more than 60 games with the Wings this season. Cleary, a model workhorse, played only 17, while Zidlicky and Cole were acquired at the trade deadline, largely for experience and offence, and have uncertain futures. Zatterberg and Datsyuk led the Red Wings offensively with 66 and 65 points, respectively, but Tomas Tatar, 23, had the most goals (29) while Gustav Nyquist, 25, placed second in goal-scoring (27). Also, Tatar and Nyquist placed third and fourth, respectively, in total points.
And, in case anyone forgets, the Wings took the Tampa Bay Lightning -- one of the NHL's youngest and most talented teams -- to overtime in the seventh game of their first-round series before bowing out.
In other words, Detroit's supposedly aging roster should not be used as an excuse if or when Babcock decides to leave Detroit. When it comes to rebuilding, there's momentum in Motown.
3. Babcock can work with young players anywhere.
It's a misconception to think that Babcock will prefer to work with veteran players and limit young players' development and ice time. Nobody has said that he will, but coaches are often accused of preferring veterans over youngsters, and he will probably receive similar treatment from critics as more teams come into the hiring mix.
Babcock has a teaching background, and he has won a Canadian university title with a Lethbridge Pronghorns team that has done little since; a Memorial Cup with junior-aged Spokane Chiefs and a Stanley Cup by developing such future Red Wings stars as Zetterberg, Datsyuk, Kronwall and Jimmy Howard, among others, in their younger days.
The NHL is trending younger, Babcock knows that, and he can adapt.
Accordingly, Edmonton, where junior phenom Connor McDavid will play next season and Buffalo, where future American superstar Jack Eichel is destined to toil, would both be a good fit because they have several emerging young stars. But the Oilers are not considered to be in the running anymore for Babcock, while Buffalo is reportedly in hot pursuit. Toronto does not yet have enough obvious young talent for it to be a strong selling point, but the Leafs will likely make a big push at crunch time due to president Brendan Shanahan's close ties to him.
4. Toronto is a bad fit.
There are too many negatives in Toronto, including a daily media gong show, the absence of a general manager since Dave Nonis was fired, a dysfunctional veteran core and the aforementioned lack of young talent. It could be several years before the Leafs are ready to contend. But, as a rule, coaches love a challenge, and the Maple Leafs pose, arguably, the biggest one in the NHL.
Many coaches would opt not to coach in Toronto because of its hockey heritage and the constant public pressure to win that everyone faces on a daily basis. But Babcock is enough of a contrarian to accept an apparent no-win situation.
So don't be surprised if, after months of speculation, he winds up guiding the Leafs after all.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Tim Parker looks at home with Whitecaps
Tim Parker did not look out of place in his first start with the Vancouver Whitecaps – but he was.
The 22-year-old defender was drafted primarily to be a centre back. However, he made his first-ever MLS start at right back. He delivered a solid effort by defending against veterans with seemingly little difficulty, showing signs that he can be big in the air and making smart passes up the pitch as the Caps blanked the Philadelphia Union 3-0 at B.C. Place Stadium.
“It’s a little bit of a new feel but I’m just adjusting,” he said of playing right back. Working with the guys around me made it a lot easier. I’ve played right back in college and I played it here in pre-season for a little bit as well.”
Parker, a 22-year-old Hicksville, N.Y., native, was Vancouver’s top pick (13th overall) in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft. The six-foot-two and 195-pound defender started 79 of the 80 matches for St. John’s University over the past four seasons. Despite his lack of pro experience, Vancouver coach Carl Robinson opted to go with Parker instead of Ethen Sampson and Christian Dean, who also have limited pro experience – but significantly more than him.
“It was a tough decision for me to play (Parker),” said Robinson. “And, I wanted to play Timmy to give him the opportunity. Tim’s going to have to play at some stage, as is Christian Dean. I wanted to get him some minutes to get him acclimatized to the group. Leaving Ethen Sampson out was tough, because Ethen did very well for me last week in Portland. But it’s not about any individual, it’s not about the manager, it’s about the team and the club and the organization. And if I feel it’s right to do it, then I’ll do it. Tim looked like he’s played a few games with them before, didn’t he?”
Indeed, he did. Never mind that Parker is as raw as first-year MLS players can be. (Most MLS first-year players are actually veterans who have played in Europe or elsewhere overseas.) He joined the Whitecaps after a standout career at St. John’s University, where he produced four goals, two game-winners, and four assists, mainly as a central defender on a back line that posted 30 clean sheets. He also helped St. John’s make three straight NCAA tournament appearances (2011-2013) and claim the 2011 Big East Tournament title.
On Saturday, Parker helped the Whitecaps hold off a Union team that started reasonably well but faltered after Vancouver goalkeeper David Ousted made a stupendous save on Andrew Wenger’s close-in volley in the 27th minute.
The Union did not mount much after Ousted’s big moment, largely because Parker and his back-line mates never allowed them to create much from within 30 yards of the Vancouver net.
“He was fantastic today,” said Ousted. “(Parker) came in and he was composed. He did his job very well together with the back four. We kept a clean sheet today. Credit goes to Tim. He played not like a rookie but a seasoned vet.”
Coach Robinson prefers to go with seasoned veterans in league matches, but he goes with a revamped lineup in Canadian championship contests. As a result, Parker could start again Wednesday as the Whitecaps host lower-tier FC Edmonton on Wednesday.
Robinson said he would have no problem starting Parker against the Eddies or in Vancouver’s next league game, either. Parker would no complaints, obviously, about making three straight starts.
The Whitecaps get a chance to begin the Canadian championship semi-final series at home after the would-be first leg in Edmonton last week was postponed due to snow.
“We knew there was a possibility of snow on Wednesday but we didn’t realize there was a possibility of it getting snowed out so it was a little disappointing,” said Parker. “We still have to keep plugging away and waiting for the opportunities. I think now it’s just about taking advantage of the home game. Playing the first leg at home, we have to put the pressure on them and take care of the rest in Edmonton.”
And, there’s a reasonable chance he will be applying some of that pressure.
The 22-year-old defender was drafted primarily to be a centre back. However, he made his first-ever MLS start at right back. He delivered a solid effort by defending against veterans with seemingly little difficulty, showing signs that he can be big in the air and making smart passes up the pitch as the Caps blanked the Philadelphia Union 3-0 at B.C. Place Stadium.
“It’s a little bit of a new feel but I’m just adjusting,” he said of playing right back. Working with the guys around me made it a lot easier. I’ve played right back in college and I played it here in pre-season for a little bit as well.”
Parker, a 22-year-old Hicksville, N.Y., native, was Vancouver’s top pick (13th overall) in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft. The six-foot-two and 195-pound defender started 79 of the 80 matches for St. John’s University over the past four seasons. Despite his lack of pro experience, Vancouver coach Carl Robinson opted to go with Parker instead of Ethen Sampson and Christian Dean, who also have limited pro experience – but significantly more than him.
“It was a tough decision for me to play (Parker),” said Robinson. “And, I wanted to play Timmy to give him the opportunity. Tim’s going to have to play at some stage, as is Christian Dean. I wanted to get him some minutes to get him acclimatized to the group. Leaving Ethen Sampson out was tough, because Ethen did very well for me last week in Portland. But it’s not about any individual, it’s not about the manager, it’s about the team and the club and the organization. And if I feel it’s right to do it, then I’ll do it. Tim looked like he’s played a few games with them before, didn’t he?”
Indeed, he did. Never mind that Parker is as raw as first-year MLS players can be. (Most MLS first-year players are actually veterans who have played in Europe or elsewhere overseas.) He joined the Whitecaps after a standout career at St. John’s University, where he produced four goals, two game-winners, and four assists, mainly as a central defender on a back line that posted 30 clean sheets. He also helped St. John’s make three straight NCAA tournament appearances (2011-2013) and claim the 2011 Big East Tournament title.
On Saturday, Parker helped the Whitecaps hold off a Union team that started reasonably well but faltered after Vancouver goalkeeper David Ousted made a stupendous save on Andrew Wenger’s close-in volley in the 27th minute.
The Union did not mount much after Ousted’s big moment, largely because Parker and his back-line mates never allowed them to create much from within 30 yards of the Vancouver net.
“He was fantastic today,” said Ousted. “(Parker) came in and he was composed. He did his job very well together with the back four. We kept a clean sheet today. Credit goes to Tim. He played not like a rookie but a seasoned vet.”
Coach Robinson prefers to go with seasoned veterans in league matches, but he goes with a revamped lineup in Canadian championship contests. As a result, Parker could start again Wednesday as the Whitecaps host lower-tier FC Edmonton on Wednesday.
Robinson said he would have no problem starting Parker against the Eddies or in Vancouver’s next league game, either. Parker would no complaints, obviously, about making three straight starts.
The Whitecaps get a chance to begin the Canadian championship semi-final series at home after the would-be first leg in Edmonton last week was postponed due to snow.
“We knew there was a possibility of snow on Wednesday but we didn’t realize there was a possibility of it getting snowed out so it was a little disappointing,” said Parker. “We still have to keep plugging away and waiting for the opportunities. I think now it’s just about taking advantage of the home game. Playing the first leg at home, we have to put the pressure on them and take care of the rest in Edmonton.”
And, there’s a reasonable chance he will be applying some of that pressure.
Friday, May 8, 2015
Babcock's days in Detroit appear numbered
Mike Babcock's marriage to the Detroit Red Wings appears all but over.
As reported Friday, Babcock has expressed a desire to consider other options, and the Red Wings are willing to let them talk to other teams before his contract expires in July. Babcock has stated that he could still return to Detroit, and the Wings would clearly love to have him back. But this situation makes two points clear: Babcock is not committed to Detroit, perhaps for a few weeks or maybe forever, and the Red Wings are willing to let him go.
Granted, relations would have been damaged if the Red Wings had not granted him permission to talk to other teams before his contract expires, because the club would then have an angry coach that it still wants to keep and might have to work with. Also, the Wings could miss out on some other qualified coaching candidates, such as former San Jose Sharks bench boss Todd McLellan, who is a former Detroit assistant.
In turn, the Wings could also miss out on signing some unrestricted free agents, who view a potential team's coach as a key factor in their decisions. Babcock would also miss out on jobs elsewhere, because teams like to have coaches in place for free agency and planning purposes, often before the draft in late June or the July 1 free agent frenzy.
Both the Red Wings and Babcock are being decent by keeping options open. The Red Wings, who have made two contract offers, could have simply let him go while continuing to pay him until July. Also, Babcock could have stated that he won't be back.
Babcock earned such treatment after helping the Wings reach the Stanley Cup finals in 2008, when they beat Pittsburgh, and 2009 when they lost to the Penguins. He has also helped the Red Wings qualify for the playoffs in 24 straight years. Babcock has gone 527-285-119 with 19 ties in 12 NHL seasons, sports an 82-62 record in the Stanley Cup playoffs, and led Canada to gold medals in the last two Olympics. He also led the Anaheim Ducks to the Stanley Cup finals in 2003.
Both sides are showing their professionalism and respectful relationship by keeping options open, but the Red Wings are also preparing for Babcock's departure. General manager Ken Holland is not allowing other teams to talk to Jeff Blashill, coach of the Wings' AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids, Mich. Holland has stated that Blashill would be a candidate for the Detroit position if Babcock leaves.
The Red Wings like to develop coaches and players from within, so Blashill would have a good chance of being promoted. It's hard to say why Babcock wants to consider other jobs. The Red Wings, owned by Mikke Ilitch, are a wealthy organizations that can afford to meet, or at least come close enough, to his salary target, and Babcock does not have a desire to be a GM. While he might have a strong desire to win now, the Red Wings have considerable young talent on their roster and in the pipeline to offset the eventual losses of superstars Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk. It won't be long before they are strong Cup contenders again.
Babcock might just want a change or a new challenge or the opportunity to work in Canada. You are not likely to find out the reasons unless Babcock moves to another team. His options are plentiful as Toronto, Buffalo, San Jose and Philadelphia have openings, while Edmonton GM Peter Chiarelli has said he will reach out to him, although Todd Nelson is still the Oilers coach for now. The strong likelihood of Edmonton choosing Connor McDavid first overall could appeal strongly to Babcock when he decides where to go. Other teams without coaching vacancies, unusual suspects as now, might also make moves if they can get Babcock. For instance, Claude Julien's future in Boston is in question, and Los Angeles Kings coach Darryl Sutter appears to be dealing with a player mutiny after the 2013-14 Stanley Cup champions missed the playoffs.
All of these factors increase the likelihood of Babcock leaving Detroit.
As reported Friday, Babcock has expressed a desire to consider other options, and the Red Wings are willing to let them talk to other teams before his contract expires in July. Babcock has stated that he could still return to Detroit, and the Wings would clearly love to have him back. But this situation makes two points clear: Babcock is not committed to Detroit, perhaps for a few weeks or maybe forever, and the Red Wings are willing to let him go.
Granted, relations would have been damaged if the Red Wings had not granted him permission to talk to other teams before his contract expires, because the club would then have an angry coach that it still wants to keep and might have to work with. Also, the Wings could miss out on some other qualified coaching candidates, such as former San Jose Sharks bench boss Todd McLellan, who is a former Detroit assistant.
In turn, the Wings could also miss out on signing some unrestricted free agents, who view a potential team's coach as a key factor in their decisions. Babcock would also miss out on jobs elsewhere, because teams like to have coaches in place for free agency and planning purposes, often before the draft in late June or the July 1 free agent frenzy.
Both the Red Wings and Babcock are being decent by keeping options open. The Red Wings, who have made two contract offers, could have simply let him go while continuing to pay him until July. Also, Babcock could have stated that he won't be back.
Babcock earned such treatment after helping the Wings reach the Stanley Cup finals in 2008, when they beat Pittsburgh, and 2009 when they lost to the Penguins. He has also helped the Red Wings qualify for the playoffs in 24 straight years. Babcock has gone 527-285-119 with 19 ties in 12 NHL seasons, sports an 82-62 record in the Stanley Cup playoffs, and led Canada to gold medals in the last two Olympics. He also led the Anaheim Ducks to the Stanley Cup finals in 2003.
Both sides are showing their professionalism and respectful relationship by keeping options open, but the Red Wings are also preparing for Babcock's departure. General manager Ken Holland is not allowing other teams to talk to Jeff Blashill, coach of the Wings' AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids, Mich. Holland has stated that Blashill would be a candidate for the Detroit position if Babcock leaves.
The Red Wings like to develop coaches and players from within, so Blashill would have a good chance of being promoted. It's hard to say why Babcock wants to consider other jobs. The Red Wings, owned by Mikke Ilitch, are a wealthy organizations that can afford to meet, or at least come close enough, to his salary target, and Babcock does not have a desire to be a GM. While he might have a strong desire to win now, the Red Wings have considerable young talent on their roster and in the pipeline to offset the eventual losses of superstars Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk. It won't be long before they are strong Cup contenders again.
Babcock might just want a change or a new challenge or the opportunity to work in Canada. You are not likely to find out the reasons unless Babcock moves to another team. His options are plentiful as Toronto, Buffalo, San Jose and Philadelphia have openings, while Edmonton GM Peter Chiarelli has said he will reach out to him, although Todd Nelson is still the Oilers coach for now. The strong likelihood of Edmonton choosing Connor McDavid first overall could appeal strongly to Babcock when he decides where to go. Other teams without coaching vacancies, unusual suspects as now, might also make moves if they can get Babcock. For instance, Claude Julien's future in Boston is in question, and Los Angeles Kings coach Darryl Sutter appears to be dealing with a player mutiny after the 2013-14 Stanley Cup champions missed the playoffs.
All of these factors increase the likelihood of Babcock leaving Detroit.
Monday, April 27, 2015
Bieksa doesn't see himself leaving Canucks
Dan Hamhuis didn’t want to contemplate the question. Neither did Kevin Bieksa.
So the two Vancouver Canucks defencemen sidestepped the issue of whether they would agree to waive their no-trade clauses if asked by general manager Jim Benning.
“That’s something I never really thought of,” said Hamhuis as all Canuck players met with reporters Monday following their elimination from the Stanley Cup playoffs over the weekend. “I’m not really prepared to give an answer on that. It’s something I’ll probably think about if it ever happens.”
Bieksa offered a slightly more elaborate response, but still made his feelings clear. He is not looking to go anywhere after the Canucks lost in 4-2 in their opening-round playoff series with the Calgary Flames.
“I’ve never had to cross that bridge before,” said Bieksa. “I haven’t heard it brought up by anybody in the organization. I know you guys are poking around. It’s your job. But that’s not something I really even need to respond to.”
Bieksa and Hamhuis came under criticism after the Canucks fell 7-4 in Saturday’s decisive sixth game. The two blue-liners and others were blasted for allowing the Flames to overcome a 3-0 lead. Bieksa, who has spent his entire NHL career with the Canucks, said he has never been asked to waive his no-trade clause.
“My loyalty has always been to this organization and this city,” he said. “I love playing here. I don’t see anything else changing.”
The questions came up as critics called for the Canucks, who returned to the playoffs this season after missing out in 2013-14, to get younger in order to keep up with the Flames and other Western Conference rivals in the chase for a championship. But Bieksa and others said getting younger is not the sole solution to contending for the Stanley Cup.
“I don’t think you have to rebuild anymore,” said Bieksa. “I think you’re able to be competitive every year. I don’t think youth is always the answer. I don’t think making the team younger is going to help us get over the hump. You need the best players, regardless of how old they are.”
Henrik and Daniel Sedin, who were among the NHL’s top scorers in the regular season, echoed his sentiments as the issue of their ice time continued to come up. Last week, coach Willie Desjardins was blasted for not playing them enough. Monday, skeptics suggested the club might benefit if younger players get more action and increased offensive responsibilities.
But the twins tried to put the season in perspective despite Saturday’s disappointing loss. The Canucks finished second in the Pacific Division after sitting on the sidelines during the 2013-14 post-season.
“It’s a small step but a good step in the right direction,” said Henrik Sedin.
“As disappointing as it is, I think people should be excited about the future,” added Daniel Sedin.
They also dismissed the notion that the Canucks core, which was criticized by former coach John Tortorella last year as being stale, no longer has the skills needed to win the Stanley Cup within the next few seasons.
“We have no plans of getting any worse,” said Henrik Sedin. “We’re not young anymore, but we showed this year we can still be a big part of the group. We can play well, and I don’t see that changing in the next couple of years.”
In other words, the Canucks need more than just a fountain of youth to help them win their first NHL title since entering the league in 1970.
Henrik Sedin is calling for the Canucks to use a mix of youth and veteran savvy to get closer to a Stanley Cup title.
“There’s different ways to mature," he said. "If you look at teams that won, they brought the young guys up and the young guys made a difference.”
“We’re not getting younger, but I think we can still play, and I think we showed it this year,” added Daniel Sedin.
He and his brother praised Desjardins, Benning and president of hockey operations as a long-term solution that can bring Vancouver a long-sought championship. Some changes are inevitable, though.
Goaltender Eddie Lack’s future is in question because of the presence of veteran Ryan Miller, who has two years to go on a contract that pays him $6 million annually. Lack is due to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2015-16 season, and the Canucks will likely want to get some assets in return rather than risk losing him for nothing. Forwards Brad Richardson and Shawn Matthias will become unrestricted free agents this summer, and it appears likely that Matthias, who had a career year, will sign for a higher salary elsewhere.
Richardson will spend the summer recovering from ankle surgery, and it also appears that his days in Vancouver are numbered following an injury-plagued season.
Many of the adjustments will occur around the time of the NHL draft and the opening of free agency in late June and early July.
“I think Jim (Benning) and Trevor (Linden) have a clear plan with what they want do with this team, and we have a lot of confidence in the management in that department,” said Daniel Sedin.
Henrik Sedin said people have to understand how tough it is to make the playoffs now, noting talented Los Angeles, San Jose, Dallas and Colorado teams missed this year’s post-season. So the Canucks must continue to improve. The Sedins said they are aware of Benning and Linden’s plan for improving the club, but it was up to the managers to discuss it.
“They know what they need to do, and we have confidence in what they’re going to do to make us better,” said Henrik Sedin.
So the two Vancouver Canucks defencemen sidestepped the issue of whether they would agree to waive their no-trade clauses if asked by general manager Jim Benning.
“That’s something I never really thought of,” said Hamhuis as all Canuck players met with reporters Monday following their elimination from the Stanley Cup playoffs over the weekend. “I’m not really prepared to give an answer on that. It’s something I’ll probably think about if it ever happens.”
Bieksa offered a slightly more elaborate response, but still made his feelings clear. He is not looking to go anywhere after the Canucks lost in 4-2 in their opening-round playoff series with the Calgary Flames.
“I’ve never had to cross that bridge before,” said Bieksa. “I haven’t heard it brought up by anybody in the organization. I know you guys are poking around. It’s your job. But that’s not something I really even need to respond to.”
Bieksa and Hamhuis came under criticism after the Canucks fell 7-4 in Saturday’s decisive sixth game. The two blue-liners and others were blasted for allowing the Flames to overcome a 3-0 lead. Bieksa, who has spent his entire NHL career with the Canucks, said he has never been asked to waive his no-trade clause.
“My loyalty has always been to this organization and this city,” he said. “I love playing here. I don’t see anything else changing.”
The questions came up as critics called for the Canucks, who returned to the playoffs this season after missing out in 2013-14, to get younger in order to keep up with the Flames and other Western Conference rivals in the chase for a championship. But Bieksa and others said getting younger is not the sole solution to contending for the Stanley Cup.
“I don’t think you have to rebuild anymore,” said Bieksa. “I think you’re able to be competitive every year. I don’t think youth is always the answer. I don’t think making the team younger is going to help us get over the hump. You need the best players, regardless of how old they are.”
Henrik and Daniel Sedin, who were among the NHL’s top scorers in the regular season, echoed his sentiments as the issue of their ice time continued to come up. Last week, coach Willie Desjardins was blasted for not playing them enough. Monday, skeptics suggested the club might benefit if younger players get more action and increased offensive responsibilities.
But the twins tried to put the season in perspective despite Saturday’s disappointing loss. The Canucks finished second in the Pacific Division after sitting on the sidelines during the 2013-14 post-season.
“It’s a small step but a good step in the right direction,” said Henrik Sedin.
“As disappointing as it is, I think people should be excited about the future,” added Daniel Sedin.
They also dismissed the notion that the Canucks core, which was criticized by former coach John Tortorella last year as being stale, no longer has the skills needed to win the Stanley Cup within the next few seasons.
“We have no plans of getting any worse,” said Henrik Sedin. “We’re not young anymore, but we showed this year we can still be a big part of the group. We can play well, and I don’t see that changing in the next couple of years.”
In other words, the Canucks need more than just a fountain of youth to help them win their first NHL title since entering the league in 1970.
Henrik Sedin is calling for the Canucks to use a mix of youth and veteran savvy to get closer to a Stanley Cup title.
“There’s different ways to mature," he said. "If you look at teams that won, they brought the young guys up and the young guys made a difference.”
“We’re not getting younger, but I think we can still play, and I think we showed it this year,” added Daniel Sedin.
He and his brother praised Desjardins, Benning and president of hockey operations as a long-term solution that can bring Vancouver a long-sought championship. Some changes are inevitable, though.
Goaltender Eddie Lack’s future is in question because of the presence of veteran Ryan Miller, who has two years to go on a contract that pays him $6 million annually. Lack is due to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2015-16 season, and the Canucks will likely want to get some assets in return rather than risk losing him for nothing. Forwards Brad Richardson and Shawn Matthias will become unrestricted free agents this summer, and it appears likely that Matthias, who had a career year, will sign for a higher salary elsewhere.
Richardson will spend the summer recovering from ankle surgery, and it also appears that his days in Vancouver are numbered following an injury-plagued season.
Many of the adjustments will occur around the time of the NHL draft and the opening of free agency in late June and early July.
“I think Jim (Benning) and Trevor (Linden) have a clear plan with what they want do with this team, and we have a lot of confidence in the management in that department,” said Daniel Sedin.
Henrik Sedin said people have to understand how tough it is to make the playoffs now, noting talented Los Angeles, San Jose, Dallas and Colorado teams missed this year’s post-season. So the Canucks must continue to improve. The Sedins said they are aware of Benning and Linden’s plan for improving the club, but it was up to the managers to discuss it.
“They know what they need to do, and we have confidence in what they’re going to do to make us better,” said Henrik Sedin.
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Hiller goes with flow as Canucks change goalies
While the Vancouver Canucks switched their goaltenders in a do-or-die situation, Jonas Hiller kept going with the flow Thursday.
Ryan Miller was in and Eddie Lack was out of the Canucks net, but there was no doubt that Hiller would start for the Calgary Flames after he had backstopped them to a 3-1 lead over Vancouver in their Western Conference quarter-final series.
However, it wasn’t always this way for Hiller, who is in his first season with the Flames after being cast aside by the Anaheim Ducks.
His starting status was in question at times this season as he played 52 games while compiling a 26-19-4 record, 2.36 goals-against average and .918 save percentage. He had to battle Karri Ramo for the No. 1 job, but solidified his place down the stretch while helping the Flames secure a playoff berth.
Hiller, a 33-year-old Switzerland native, has also battled concussion issues in the past. But he is not getting too excited about his strong run. He was not about to lobby for long-term starter status, either.
“I knew when I signed in Calgary it was going to be between me and Rammer,” said Hiller after Calgary’s morning skate. “Especially these days, it’s great to have two goalies who can help the team win on any given night, because with the travel and everything, it’s tough to play at your best for 82 games. To have the option and know somebody else is there and can carry the ball for a little bit, it’s great to have. I’m pretty happy to know that I can carry the ball right now and I’m playing well, but it can change quick.”
Hiller is gaining some enjoyment as he stands out for a Flames team that is in the playoffs for the first time since 2008-09. He helped the Flames get in despite a late eight-game losing skid. But he knows that success in the NHL is fleeting, and the battle for the No. 1 position is far from over.
“If you play in the NHL, you always have somebody who wants your job,” he said. “There’s always somebody who’s gonna be better than you. It’s definitely, not gonna be the last time. I’m sure, next year, it’s gonna be a similar situation. It’s part of (a goaltender's life in the NHL), but I’m definitely happy with the way I’m playing and the way I’m able to handle (the load) and always find a way to stay confident in myself and improve my game.”
Hiller said he has had to make some adjustments because of the Flames’ shot-blocking prowess. Their skill actually makes him more cautious and further back in his net in case opponents make an extra pass as their shooting lanes are blocked. Calgary defenceman Kris Russell said Hiller has been Calgary's best player in recent games. Russell added that Hiller reads plays well and is a calming influence because of the way he talks with teammates and helps them out.
“(Hiller) has been good for us all year,” said Russell. “There were a lot of questions coming in, because we had two hot goalies playing. They were two guys that were carrying the ship in their own right, and Rams was hot there for a while. We have a lot of trust in both our goaltenders; and, obviously, Hills has been huge for us this series. … So we’re gonna need him to continue that.”
Ryan Miller was in and Eddie Lack was out of the Canucks net, but there was no doubt that Hiller would start for the Calgary Flames after he had backstopped them to a 3-1 lead over Vancouver in their Western Conference quarter-final series.
However, it wasn’t always this way for Hiller, who is in his first season with the Flames after being cast aside by the Anaheim Ducks.
His starting status was in question at times this season as he played 52 games while compiling a 26-19-4 record, 2.36 goals-against average and .918 save percentage. He had to battle Karri Ramo for the No. 1 job, but solidified his place down the stretch while helping the Flames secure a playoff berth.
Hiller, a 33-year-old Switzerland native, has also battled concussion issues in the past. But he is not getting too excited about his strong run. He was not about to lobby for long-term starter status, either.
“I knew when I signed in Calgary it was going to be between me and Rammer,” said Hiller after Calgary’s morning skate. “Especially these days, it’s great to have two goalies who can help the team win on any given night, because with the travel and everything, it’s tough to play at your best for 82 games. To have the option and know somebody else is there and can carry the ball for a little bit, it’s great to have. I’m pretty happy to know that I can carry the ball right now and I’m playing well, but it can change quick.”
Hiller is gaining some enjoyment as he stands out for a Flames team that is in the playoffs for the first time since 2008-09. He helped the Flames get in despite a late eight-game losing skid. But he knows that success in the NHL is fleeting, and the battle for the No. 1 position is far from over.
“If you play in the NHL, you always have somebody who wants your job,” he said. “There’s always somebody who’s gonna be better than you. It’s definitely, not gonna be the last time. I’m sure, next year, it’s gonna be a similar situation. It’s part of (a goaltender's life in the NHL), but I’m definitely happy with the way I’m playing and the way I’m able to handle (the load) and always find a way to stay confident in myself and improve my game.”
Hiller said he has had to make some adjustments because of the Flames’ shot-blocking prowess. Their skill actually makes him more cautious and further back in his net in case opponents make an extra pass as their shooting lanes are blocked. Calgary defenceman Kris Russell said Hiller has been Calgary's best player in recent games. Russell added that Hiller reads plays well and is a calming influence because of the way he talks with teammates and helps them out.
“(Hiller) has been good for us all year,” said Russell. “There were a lot of questions coming in, because we had two hot goalies playing. They were two guys that were carrying the ship in their own right, and Rams was hot there for a while. We have a lot of trust in both our goaltenders; and, obviously, Hills has been huge for us this series. … So we’re gonna need him to continue that.”
Friday, April 17, 2015
Rookies making their mark in Flames-Canucks series
Rookies are making their mark in the Western Conference quarter final series between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks.
The Flames planned to dress five first-year players, including wingers Sam Bennett and Johnny Gaudreau, for the second straight contest in Friday's Game 2. The Canucks were expected to dress at least two rookies, centre Bo Horvat and winger Ronalds Kenins.
"They’re stepping in and playing hard," said Canucks coach Willie Desjardins about the rookies on both clubs. "I just think that’s the way of the new players. The young players, they’re confident in their ability and they feel they can come in and play – not just have ice time, but make a difference.”
Bennett turned heads by assisting on Calgary's winning goal, with only 29.6 seconds left, in the first game. It was only Bennett's second career NHL game, after he drew an assist in the first minute against Winnipeg.
His performance in Game 1 drew rave reviews from Calgary coach Bob Hartley, teammates and opponents alike.
“It’s part of his personality," said Hartley. "You’re talking about a fearless kid, a kid who wants to learn, a kid who wants to compete. I really thank God that we got him in the lineup. He’s probably the biggest pain that I’ve ever coached. This year, every day he was coming to me. He wanted to be in practice. He wanted to be in pre-game warm-ups, stuff like this.”
Bennett, the fourth overall pick in last summer's NHL draft, has excelled after missing most of the season due to shoulder surgery and playing in the latter stages of the campaign with his junior team. He initially hid the injury while attempting to make the Flames in the pre-season.
"There (were) many reports that the kid was not a good worker and couldn't do pull-ups (at the NHL combine) or anything," said Hartley. "When your shoulder is broken in pieces, but you won't tell anyone because you are a competitor and you want to be there, I think that speaks volumes about his character.
“Apparently, his shoulder was fine,” continued Hartley. “But now, today, we know that it wasn’t fine. He wanted to make our team so bad that all the pain was not a problem. Once we got him checked by our team doctors and a specialist, there was no way that he could keep going without a surgery. That’s the kind of player that we need in this organization if we’re going to make some great strides forward. Yes, you need talent, you need speed, but you need character.
"This kid is full of dynamite.”
Teammate Sean Monahan, an old foe in years gone by, was not surprised by Bennett's play.
“I played against him in the OHL," said Monahan. "He’s a good player and he’s gonna be good for a long time.”
Horvat, who also played against Bennett in the OHL was also impressed with his effort in only his second NHL game. They used to square off while Horvat was with London and Bennett toiled for Kingston.
"He’s a special player. ... He’s definitely gotten stronger, and it seems like he’s gotten a little faster,” said Horvat.
Horvat, a 20-year-old Rodney, Ont., also impressed as he scored Vancouver's only goal in his first career Stanley Cup playoff game.
Gaudreau, a leading candidate for the NHL Rookie of the Year award, would like to do better after struggling in Game 1. But the pint-sized Salem, N.J., native, who plays on Calgary's top line, still appreciates the opportunity to take part in the playoffs in his first pro season.
“It’s exciting," said Gaudreau, a Boston College product who was considered a long shot to reach the NHL after being drafted by Calgary in the fourth round (104th overall) in 2011. "I never thought I’d be in this kind of position before."
He praised older teammates for showing the way for him and the four other rookies who started Game 1.
"Thankfully, I had a lot of help from teammates throughout the season, and they really put me in this position.”
Gaudreau, a former Hobey Baker award winner as the top collegiate player in the U.S.
But according to Flames winger David Jones, who scored their first goal in Game 1, the rookies provided guidance for Calgary's older players.
“Even for a lot of us veterans, we don’t have a lot of playoff experience," said Jones. "So we’re all sort of in the same boat. The young guys kind of bring new life to all of us. I’m always impressed every year when guys that are 18, 19, 20 years old come in and play big minutes. When I was (Sam) Bennett’s age, I was still in Junior A.
“Just to show that kind of poise, the kind these guys have, always impresses me.”
The Flames planned to dress five first-year players, including wingers Sam Bennett and Johnny Gaudreau, for the second straight contest in Friday's Game 2. The Canucks were expected to dress at least two rookies, centre Bo Horvat and winger Ronalds Kenins.
"They’re stepping in and playing hard," said Canucks coach Willie Desjardins about the rookies on both clubs. "I just think that’s the way of the new players. The young players, they’re confident in their ability and they feel they can come in and play – not just have ice time, but make a difference.”
Bennett turned heads by assisting on Calgary's winning goal, with only 29.6 seconds left, in the first game. It was only Bennett's second career NHL game, after he drew an assist in the first minute against Winnipeg.
His performance in Game 1 drew rave reviews from Calgary coach Bob Hartley, teammates and opponents alike.
“It’s part of his personality," said Hartley. "You’re talking about a fearless kid, a kid who wants to learn, a kid who wants to compete. I really thank God that we got him in the lineup. He’s probably the biggest pain that I’ve ever coached. This year, every day he was coming to me. He wanted to be in practice. He wanted to be in pre-game warm-ups, stuff like this.”
Bennett, the fourth overall pick in last summer's NHL draft, has excelled after missing most of the season due to shoulder surgery and playing in the latter stages of the campaign with his junior team. He initially hid the injury while attempting to make the Flames in the pre-season.
"There (were) many reports that the kid was not a good worker and couldn't do pull-ups (at the NHL combine) or anything," said Hartley. "When your shoulder is broken in pieces, but you won't tell anyone because you are a competitor and you want to be there, I think that speaks volumes about his character.
“Apparently, his shoulder was fine,” continued Hartley. “But now, today, we know that it wasn’t fine. He wanted to make our team so bad that all the pain was not a problem. Once we got him checked by our team doctors and a specialist, there was no way that he could keep going without a surgery. That’s the kind of player that we need in this organization if we’re going to make some great strides forward. Yes, you need talent, you need speed, but you need character.
"This kid is full of dynamite.”
Teammate Sean Monahan, an old foe in years gone by, was not surprised by Bennett's play.
“I played against him in the OHL," said Monahan. "He’s a good player and he’s gonna be good for a long time.”
Horvat, who also played against Bennett in the OHL was also impressed with his effort in only his second NHL game. They used to square off while Horvat was with London and Bennett toiled for Kingston.
"He’s a special player. ... He’s definitely gotten stronger, and it seems like he’s gotten a little faster,” said Horvat.
Horvat, a 20-year-old Rodney, Ont., also impressed as he scored Vancouver's only goal in his first career Stanley Cup playoff game.
Gaudreau, a leading candidate for the NHL Rookie of the Year award, would like to do better after struggling in Game 1. But the pint-sized Salem, N.J., native, who plays on Calgary's top line, still appreciates the opportunity to take part in the playoffs in his first pro season.
“It’s exciting," said Gaudreau, a Boston College product who was considered a long shot to reach the NHL after being drafted by Calgary in the fourth round (104th overall) in 2011. "I never thought I’d be in this kind of position before."
He praised older teammates for showing the way for him and the four other rookies who started Game 1.
"Thankfully, I had a lot of help from teammates throughout the season, and they really put me in this position.”
Gaudreau, a former Hobey Baker award winner as the top collegiate player in the U.S.
But according to Flames winger David Jones, who scored their first goal in Game 1, the rookies provided guidance for Calgary's older players.
“Even for a lot of us veterans, we don’t have a lot of playoff experience," said Jones. "So we’re all sort of in the same boat. The young guys kind of bring new life to all of us. I’m always impressed every year when guys that are 18, 19, 20 years old come in and play big minutes. When I was (Sam) Bennett’s age, I was still in Junior A.
“Just to show that kind of poise, the kind these guys have, always impresses me.”
Willie Desjardins aims to keep Sedins fresh
Vancouver Canucks coach Willie Desjardins is not fazed by criticism over his use of stars Daniel and Henrik Sedin in the first game of their opening-round playoff series with the Calgary Flames.
“I think all our lines are playing pretty good,” said Desjardins as the Canucks prepared to face the Flames in Game 2 at Rogers Arena on Friday night. “And, I think we play our best when we’re fresh. Maybe they should have had a couple more minutes. Probably, it wouldn’t hurt. But there was times during the year when they had those minutes and we won, and everything was great because they weren’t given the minutes. We feel we’ve gotta work hard every night. There’s no sense burning them out (in) one game.”
Critics were quick to blast Desjardins for not using his top point producers more often as the Canucks lost 2-1 on a last-minute goal while the Sedins were on the bench Wednesday night. Daniel Sedin played 16:14, slightly more than two minutes below his season average of 18:21. Henrik Sedin played 17:29, about a minute less than his average.
But Desjardins plans to stick with his season-long practice of rolling four lines, a method which players have praised. Accordingly, the Sedins were not complaining about their reduced ice time.
“We wouldn’t be standing here talking about it if we had won,” Henrik Sedin said. “We would have been standing here saying, ‘We’re still fresh, they played a lot of minutes and can they keep up with us?’ So here we are.”
Earlier, Henrik drew chuckles when he told reporters: “We have always said we want to play 25 minutes. We did it last year and it didn’t work, so now we are standing here talking about us playing too little.”
The Canucks hope to make a strong run after missing the playoffs under former coach John Tortorella in 2013-14. Consequently, Daniel Sedin was not about to dispute his coach's strategy, either.
“It’s made us successful throughout the year, to roll four lines," said Daniel Sedin. "If we just keep doing that, the longer the series goes, we’ll be fresh – and I like that. You shouldn’t change what has brought you here.”
“I think all our lines are playing pretty good,” said Desjardins as the Canucks prepared to face the Flames in Game 2 at Rogers Arena on Friday night. “And, I think we play our best when we’re fresh. Maybe they should have had a couple more minutes. Probably, it wouldn’t hurt. But there was times during the year when they had those minutes and we won, and everything was great because they weren’t given the minutes. We feel we’ve gotta work hard every night. There’s no sense burning them out (in) one game.”
Critics were quick to blast Desjardins for not using his top point producers more often as the Canucks lost 2-1 on a last-minute goal while the Sedins were on the bench Wednesday night. Daniel Sedin played 16:14, slightly more than two minutes below his season average of 18:21. Henrik Sedin played 17:29, about a minute less than his average.
But Desjardins plans to stick with his season-long practice of rolling four lines, a method which players have praised. Accordingly, the Sedins were not complaining about their reduced ice time.
“We wouldn’t be standing here talking about it if we had won,” Henrik Sedin said. “We would have been standing here saying, ‘We’re still fresh, they played a lot of minutes and can they keep up with us?’ So here we are.”
Earlier, Henrik drew chuckles when he told reporters: “We have always said we want to play 25 minutes. We did it last year and it didn’t work, so now we are standing here talking about us playing too little.”
The Canucks hope to make a strong run after missing the playoffs under former coach John Tortorella in 2013-14. Consequently, Daniel Sedin was not about to dispute his coach's strategy, either.
“It’s made us successful throughout the year, to roll four lines," said Daniel Sedin. "If we just keep doing that, the longer the series goes, we’ll be fresh – and I like that. You shouldn’t change what has brought you here.”
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Miller's return gives Canucks two goaltending options
The Vancouver Canucks will have two dependable NHL veteran goaltenders when the Stanley Cup playoffs begin.
Ryan Miller, out since Feb. 22 with a knee injury, dressed as the backup as the Canucks hosted the Arizona Coyotes on Thursday night. He is expected to start Saturday when the Canucks wrap up the regular season at home against the Edmonton Oilers.
As a result, coach Willie Desjardins can now choose from Eddie Lack, who has played most games in his absence, or Miller in the playoffs.
“I’m excited for the possibility here and I’m just trying to take it day by day and work my way into becoming an option first,” Miller said earlier this week.
Miller, in his first season with the Canucks, was unavailable to reporters Thursday as he stayed out on the ice late during an optional morning skate. He went into the dressing room after it was closed to media.
“I was pushing, trying to get back for one of the last games,” said Miller. “If I was going to have an opportunity to get some game action, that would be the hope.”
Miller has posted a 28-15-1 record with a 2.47 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage this season. Desjardins indicated Wednesday that he will start one regular-season game before the playoffs, leaving only Saturday’s contest against the Oilers.
“We’ll just have to monitor these next couple days to see where he’s at,” said Desjardins. “We’d like to get him in a game, but we’ll have to see where he’s at.”
The situation is reminiscent of past years when former Canucks Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider battled for the No. 1 position. Desjardins has declined to name a starter until the post-season begins.
“You never make that decision right now,” said Desjardins. “That decision will be made before the first playoff game. But, saying that, I think Eddie’s played really well. We needed him to step up. We had a lot of hockey left without Ryan, and he did a terrific job for us and he certainly got us into the playoffs. So you always take that into consideration.”
The Canucks returned Jacob Markstrom to Utica of the AHL on Thursday. Markstrom has a 1-1-0 record in three appearances with Vancouver this season. He was with the Canucks on an emergency recall basis as a result of Miller’s injury.
Once Miller was deemed healthy enough to play, Markstrom had to return to the minors.
Ryan Miller, out since Feb. 22 with a knee injury, dressed as the backup as the Canucks hosted the Arizona Coyotes on Thursday night. He is expected to start Saturday when the Canucks wrap up the regular season at home against the Edmonton Oilers.
As a result, coach Willie Desjardins can now choose from Eddie Lack, who has played most games in his absence, or Miller in the playoffs.
“I’m excited for the possibility here and I’m just trying to take it day by day and work my way into becoming an option first,” Miller said earlier this week.
Miller, in his first season with the Canucks, was unavailable to reporters Thursday as he stayed out on the ice late during an optional morning skate. He went into the dressing room after it was closed to media.
“I was pushing, trying to get back for one of the last games,” said Miller. “If I was going to have an opportunity to get some game action, that would be the hope.”
Miller has posted a 28-15-1 record with a 2.47 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage this season. Desjardins indicated Wednesday that he will start one regular-season game before the playoffs, leaving only Saturday’s contest against the Oilers.
“We’ll just have to monitor these next couple days to see where he’s at,” said Desjardins. “We’d like to get him in a game, but we’ll have to see where he’s at.”
The situation is reminiscent of past years when former Canucks Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider battled for the No. 1 position. Desjardins has declined to name a starter until the post-season begins.
“You never make that decision right now,” said Desjardins. “That decision will be made before the first playoff game. But, saying that, I think Eddie’s played really well. We needed him to step up. We had a lot of hockey left without Ryan, and he did a terrific job for us and he certainly got us into the playoffs. So you always take that into consideration.”
The Canucks returned Jacob Markstrom to Utica of the AHL on Thursday. Markstrom has a 1-1-0 record in three appearances with Vancouver this season. He was with the Canucks on an emergency recall basis as a result of Miller’s injury.
Once Miller was deemed healthy enough to play, Markstrom had to return to the minors.
Dorsett and Sbisa looking forward to long stays in Vancouver
Derek Dorsett got the long-term deal he wanted from the Vancouver Canucks. Now, he’s looking to build a future for himself, his family and his team.
The winger was pumped Thursday, a day after signing a new four-year contract with an annual salary cap hit of $2.65 million. The contract is the longest of the 28-year-old Kindersley, Sask., native’s NHL career.
“Me and my agents talked about trying to get a long-term commitment and, obviously, Vancouver made that offer,” he said as the Canucks prepared to face the Arizona Coyotes. “So we’re very happy with it and glad to be staying in Vancouver. That’s for sure.”
His previous three contracts ranged from two to three years.
“It means a lot,” he said of the contract length. “The ownership and management group have been nothing but great to me and my family. It’s a first-class organization, and I couldn’t be happier anywhere else. Being in Canada and being in a Canadian market and, obviously, it being a childhood dream to play in a Canadian market, now I get to do it for four years and work towards the goal that everyone wants to accomplish here – and that’s to win a Stanley Cup.”
Dorsett joined the Canucks in an off-season trade from the New York Rangers and has established a strong affection for the city after his son Dylan was born here. He has become a mainstay on a nominal fourth line with rookie centre Bo Horvat and fellow centre Jannik Hansen.
The line has been prominent down the stretch as the Canucks secured a playoff berth after a one-year absence from the post-season.
Before Thursday’s contest, Dorsett had posted single-season career highs in points (25) and assists (18). He was leading the Canucks in hits (163) and his team-leading 169 penalty minutes ranked fourth in the NHL.
“Coming into a locker-room full of guys that you’ve had some pretty good wars against, it can be a little difficult and nerve-wracking,” he said. “But the guys opened the locker-room with open arms. It just shows what kind of leaders are on this team and the character of guys that are in this locker-room. It’s been a lot of fun this year. And, as soon as I got here, (seeing) how welcoming they are to me and my family, it just made me realize that I wanted to be here long-term.”
Dorsett has earned praise from coach Willie Desjardins and general manager Jim Benning for his physical ways and his willingness to stand up for teammates in altercations. In coming years, Dorsett, who has also played for Columbus, which drafted him from the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, also hopes to become active with charitable causes in Vancouver and be more of a mentor to younger players.
“I still remember the first times I walked into an NHL locker-room star-struck at some of the guys that were walking around,” he said. “When I was in Columbus, you had the likes of Sergei Federov, you had Anson Carter, you had Michael Peca and Freddie Modin, guys like that. Walking around, you see them and you get caught in the moment. I can remember times when those guys made me feel welcome and always had time to chat with me; or if I had any questions, to show the way. So (mentoring) is something I take pride in. I hope I can do that for the next four years to some of the young guys. We’ve got some young talent coming up that will help this team win down the road, and it’ll be a fun role to take on.”
But first, there’s a Stanley Cup to play for this season. Dorsett is glad that he won’t be distracted by contract issues as the Canucks chase a championship.
“It’s an important time of year and it’s obviously a relief to get it over with,” he said.
Meanwhile, defenceman Luca Sbisa was also relieved that he could also focus on the playoffs after signing a new deal of his own. Sbisa signed a three-year deal with a yearly cap hit of $3.6 million Wednesday.
“From a personal standpoint, that’s huge,” he said. “(There were) a lot of question marks coming into this year. So it’s good to have the confidence of upper management, the coaches and all that to be here for another three years.”
Sbisa, 25-year-old Swiss product of Italian descent, was acquired from Anaheim at the trade deadline as part of the Ryan Kesler deal. After some early struggles, Sbisa has established himself as a regular. He solidified his spot after helping the defence corps get through a plethora of injuries with a strong run early in 2015.
“Joining a new team, you don’t really know where you fit in and all that, so I think it took me a while to get going,” he said. “The second half of the year, I started to play better. … When those injuries happened on the back end, obviously, that was a bad thing. But at the same time, it was an opportunity for some other guys in the room. I think that’s when I stepped up a bit and started to play better hockey. It’s nice to get rewarded with a contract.”
Benning did not give no-trade clauses to either Dorsett or Sbisa. But they are not going anywhere soon.
The winger was pumped Thursday, a day after signing a new four-year contract with an annual salary cap hit of $2.65 million. The contract is the longest of the 28-year-old Kindersley, Sask., native’s NHL career.
“Me and my agents talked about trying to get a long-term commitment and, obviously, Vancouver made that offer,” he said as the Canucks prepared to face the Arizona Coyotes. “So we’re very happy with it and glad to be staying in Vancouver. That’s for sure.”
His previous three contracts ranged from two to three years.
“It means a lot,” he said of the contract length. “The ownership and management group have been nothing but great to me and my family. It’s a first-class organization, and I couldn’t be happier anywhere else. Being in Canada and being in a Canadian market and, obviously, it being a childhood dream to play in a Canadian market, now I get to do it for four years and work towards the goal that everyone wants to accomplish here – and that’s to win a Stanley Cup.”
Dorsett joined the Canucks in an off-season trade from the New York Rangers and has established a strong affection for the city after his son Dylan was born here. He has become a mainstay on a nominal fourth line with rookie centre Bo Horvat and fellow centre Jannik Hansen.
The line has been prominent down the stretch as the Canucks secured a playoff berth after a one-year absence from the post-season.
Before Thursday’s contest, Dorsett had posted single-season career highs in points (25) and assists (18). He was leading the Canucks in hits (163) and his team-leading 169 penalty minutes ranked fourth in the NHL.
“Coming into a locker-room full of guys that you’ve had some pretty good wars against, it can be a little difficult and nerve-wracking,” he said. “But the guys opened the locker-room with open arms. It just shows what kind of leaders are on this team and the character of guys that are in this locker-room. It’s been a lot of fun this year. And, as soon as I got here, (seeing) how welcoming they are to me and my family, it just made me realize that I wanted to be here long-term.”
Dorsett has earned praise from coach Willie Desjardins and general manager Jim Benning for his physical ways and his willingness to stand up for teammates in altercations. In coming years, Dorsett, who has also played for Columbus, which drafted him from the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, also hopes to become active with charitable causes in Vancouver and be more of a mentor to younger players.
“I still remember the first times I walked into an NHL locker-room star-struck at some of the guys that were walking around,” he said. “When I was in Columbus, you had the likes of Sergei Federov, you had Anson Carter, you had Michael Peca and Freddie Modin, guys like that. Walking around, you see them and you get caught in the moment. I can remember times when those guys made me feel welcome and always had time to chat with me; or if I had any questions, to show the way. So (mentoring) is something I take pride in. I hope I can do that for the next four years to some of the young guys. We’ve got some young talent coming up that will help this team win down the road, and it’ll be a fun role to take on.”
But first, there’s a Stanley Cup to play for this season. Dorsett is glad that he won’t be distracted by contract issues as the Canucks chase a championship.
“It’s an important time of year and it’s obviously a relief to get it over with,” he said.
Meanwhile, defenceman Luca Sbisa was also relieved that he could also focus on the playoffs after signing a new deal of his own. Sbisa signed a three-year deal with a yearly cap hit of $3.6 million Wednesday.
“From a personal standpoint, that’s huge,” he said. “(There were) a lot of question marks coming into this year. So it’s good to have the confidence of upper management, the coaches and all that to be here for another three years.”
Sbisa, 25-year-old Swiss product of Italian descent, was acquired from Anaheim at the trade deadline as part of the Ryan Kesler deal. After some early struggles, Sbisa has established himself as a regular. He solidified his spot after helping the defence corps get through a plethora of injuries with a strong run early in 2015.
“Joining a new team, you don’t really know where you fit in and all that, so I think it took me a while to get going,” he said. “The second half of the year, I started to play better. … When those injuries happened on the back end, obviously, that was a bad thing. But at the same time, it was an opportunity for some other guys in the room. I think that’s when I stepped up a bit and started to play better hockey. It’s nice to get rewarded with a contract.”
Benning did not give no-trade clauses to either Dorsett or Sbisa. But they are not going anywhere soon.
Mattocks excels in first start of season as Caps tie Crew
Darren Mattocks finally got a chance to start a game for the Vancouver Whitecaps on Wednesday, and he did not disappoint.
Mattocks scored the tying goal in the 64th minute and added an assist as the Whitecaps rallied to earn a 2-2 draw with the Columbus Crew at B.C. Place Stadium. He was named the man of the match as the Whitecaps (4-1-1) extended their unbeaten streak to five games in the young MLS season.
“A fantastic game. We should have gotten the three points. I scored, but I think I should at least get one more. I’ve got to consider that that’s my first 90 minutes, so I’m going to take it as a positive.”
In his fourth season with the Whitecaps, Mattocks has appeared in three other games as a substitute while missing another game due to international duty with Jamaica. He helped the Whitecaps come back from a pair of deficits as Kai Kamara scored both Crew goals, in the 24th and 50th minutes.
Second-half substitute Kekuta Manneh enabled Mattocks to cash in for an easy first goal of the season. Manneh broke down left wing with the ball, cut towards the net and then, when he was within six yards, made a sublime pass back through two defenders to Mattocks in the middle of the Columbus area.
“He’s a great player and, every game he plays, we know what he’s capable of doing and what he’s expected to do. … Fortunately for me, I was in the right place at the right time,” said Mattocks.
Mattocks set up Vancouver’s first goal by making a long throw-in to Octavio Rivero in the 31st minute. After taking the ball in the Columbus box, Rivero sidestepped a defender and fired a shot just inside the near post.
Mattocks showed versatility by playing on both wings. He started on the left wing and then switched to the right after Manneh came on for Nicolas Mezquida. Late in the game, Mattocks put the would-be winning goal off the corner of the crossbar. He also played one of his better games defensively in a Caps jersey, hustling back to mark opponents and being strong on the ball.
“When I’m scoring, that’s expected of me, to score, but I never can see myself doing so much work defensively,” he said. “It’s something I’m not used to on a nightly basis, because I’m a striker. But I think I did really good defensively. I think that’s what I’m going to take out of this game. And if I can continue to do that on both sides of the ball, creating chances for the team but working extremely hard defensively, I think I’m going to be in pretty good shape going forward.”
The Whitecaps spent a fair amount of time going backward in the first half as Columbus pressed forward with regularity. Both of Kamara’s goals resulted from poor defensive play.
He scored the first by firing in a loose ball after it bounced off the feet of centre back Kendall Waston and a Columbus player. The second was a terrible goal, with the Whitecaps leaving Kamara alone in their box and free to take a slow cross along the turf from Justin Meram.
“I think we had enough chances to, probably, win the game,” said Whitecaps coach Carl Robinson. “We didn’t take enough of our chances, but we weren’t good enough defensively. We (allowed) two sloppy goals. We got countered and the second goal, obviously, was a bad goal for us to concede.”
But Robinson, who juggled his lineup to avoid his players getting fatigued in three games this week, was impressed with Mattocks.
“He was very good,” said Robinson. “He got his goal. He could have, maybe, had one or two more. But there was a lot of positive play. I can’t fault my players in there today, because we’re exciting to watch attacking-wise. We’ve just gotta to tidy up a few things on the defensive side of it.”
Mattocks has not always been the hardest working Whitecap or displayed the most vision on the pitch. But he showed that Robinson made a good choice in putting him for 92 minutes before he was replaced by Robert Earnshaw in stoppage time.
“I felt it was the right time to give (Mattocks) the opportunity,” said Robinson. “He’s been away with Jamaica, he scored two goals, he got very very lively in training. And the decision was correct, because he came on and put a very strong performance for 90- odd minutes. He ran out of gas in the end, which is why I tried to put Earnie on to see if we could nick a second ball off a Kendall header or something, but (Mattocks) should be very proud of his performance today.”
The Whitecaps pulled out the draw while dealing with injuries. They lost centre back Diego Rodriguez to a groin injury in the 15th minute as his return from a two-game league suspension was brief. Waston, who was dominant in the air, also hurt his neck late in the game as he was upended by Kamara and landed head-first. But, surprisingly, Waston remained in the game.
“Maybe he got a little bit undercut and fell awkwardly, which made me angry, as you could see,” said Robinson.
The Whitecaps visit the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday, hoping to keep their unbeaten streak alive while Mattocks looks forward to another start in the near future.
Mattocks scored the tying goal in the 64th minute and added an assist as the Whitecaps rallied to earn a 2-2 draw with the Columbus Crew at B.C. Place Stadium. He was named the man of the match as the Whitecaps (4-1-1) extended their unbeaten streak to five games in the young MLS season.
“A fantastic game. We should have gotten the three points. I scored, but I think I should at least get one more. I’ve got to consider that that’s my first 90 minutes, so I’m going to take it as a positive.”
In his fourth season with the Whitecaps, Mattocks has appeared in three other games as a substitute while missing another game due to international duty with Jamaica. He helped the Whitecaps come back from a pair of deficits as Kai Kamara scored both Crew goals, in the 24th and 50th minutes.
Second-half substitute Kekuta Manneh enabled Mattocks to cash in for an easy first goal of the season. Manneh broke down left wing with the ball, cut towards the net and then, when he was within six yards, made a sublime pass back through two defenders to Mattocks in the middle of the Columbus area.
“He’s a great player and, every game he plays, we know what he’s capable of doing and what he’s expected to do. … Fortunately for me, I was in the right place at the right time,” said Mattocks.
Mattocks set up Vancouver’s first goal by making a long throw-in to Octavio Rivero in the 31st minute. After taking the ball in the Columbus box, Rivero sidestepped a defender and fired a shot just inside the near post.
Mattocks showed versatility by playing on both wings. He started on the left wing and then switched to the right after Manneh came on for Nicolas Mezquida. Late in the game, Mattocks put the would-be winning goal off the corner of the crossbar. He also played one of his better games defensively in a Caps jersey, hustling back to mark opponents and being strong on the ball.
“When I’m scoring, that’s expected of me, to score, but I never can see myself doing so much work defensively,” he said. “It’s something I’m not used to on a nightly basis, because I’m a striker. But I think I did really good defensively. I think that’s what I’m going to take out of this game. And if I can continue to do that on both sides of the ball, creating chances for the team but working extremely hard defensively, I think I’m going to be in pretty good shape going forward.”
The Whitecaps spent a fair amount of time going backward in the first half as Columbus pressed forward with regularity. Both of Kamara’s goals resulted from poor defensive play.
He scored the first by firing in a loose ball after it bounced off the feet of centre back Kendall Waston and a Columbus player. The second was a terrible goal, with the Whitecaps leaving Kamara alone in their box and free to take a slow cross along the turf from Justin Meram.
“I think we had enough chances to, probably, win the game,” said Whitecaps coach Carl Robinson. “We didn’t take enough of our chances, but we weren’t good enough defensively. We (allowed) two sloppy goals. We got countered and the second goal, obviously, was a bad goal for us to concede.”
But Robinson, who juggled his lineup to avoid his players getting fatigued in three games this week, was impressed with Mattocks.
“He was very good,” said Robinson. “He got his goal. He could have, maybe, had one or two more. But there was a lot of positive play. I can’t fault my players in there today, because we’re exciting to watch attacking-wise. We’ve just gotta to tidy up a few things on the defensive side of it.”
Mattocks has not always been the hardest working Whitecap or displayed the most vision on the pitch. But he showed that Robinson made a good choice in putting him for 92 minutes before he was replaced by Robert Earnshaw in stoppage time.
“I felt it was the right time to give (Mattocks) the opportunity,” said Robinson. “He’s been away with Jamaica, he scored two goals, he got very very lively in training. And the decision was correct, because he came on and put a very strong performance for 90- odd minutes. He ran out of gas in the end, which is why I tried to put Earnie on to see if we could nick a second ball off a Kendall header or something, but (Mattocks) should be very proud of his performance today.”
The Whitecaps pulled out the draw while dealing with injuries. They lost centre back Diego Rodriguez to a groin injury in the 15th minute as his return from a two-game league suspension was brief. Waston, who was dominant in the air, also hurt his neck late in the game as he was upended by Kamara and landed head-first. But, surprisingly, Waston remained in the game.
“Maybe he got a little bit undercut and fell awkwardly, which made me angry, as you could see,” said Robinson.
The Whitecaps visit the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday, hoping to keep their unbeaten streak alive while Mattocks looks forward to another start in the near future.
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Canucks sign Dorsett and Sbisa to new deals
Vancouver Canucks general manager Jim Benning had more than just a playoff berth to celebrate Wednesday.
Benning announced that winger Derek Dorsett and defenceman Luca Sbisa have signed contract extensions. Dorsett, a bruising fourth liner who plays way above his limited size, received a new four-year deal through 2018-19. Sbisa, who has emerged as a top-six rearguard, signed a new three-year contract.
Both are completing their first season with the team following off-season trades from the New York Rangers and Anaheim Ducks, respectively. The new contracts came after the Canucks qualified for the Stanley Cup playoffs Tuesday night as the Los Angeles Kings lost to the Edmonton Oilers.
“We have some good, young players that are going to be on our team here in the next few years, so we want to make sure that we surround them with the right type of people and players,” said Benning. “And, I feel, with the decisions that we’ve made today, we’re going in that direction.”
Dorsett, a 28-year-old Kindersley, Sask., native has posted single-season career highs in points (25) and assists (18). He leads the team in hits (163) and his team-leading 169 penalty minutes rank fourth in the NHL. In 408 career NHL games with the Canucks, Rangers, and Columbus Blue Jackets, he has recorded 98 points (38-60-98) and1,024 penalty minutes. He also has one post-season assist, with the Rangers last season as he helped them reach the Stanley Cup finals.
According to Canucks coach Willie Desjardins, he stands out in many ways. He also stands up for his teammates.
“Everybody knows that when he’s on the ice, your back’s covered,” said Desjardins. “There’s no problems. He’s out there. He’ll always come to your aid, and I think players appreciate that.”
“Derek Dorsett has the heart of a lion,” added Benning. “He plays hard every game. Some games, he doesn’t feel good. … But you get the same effort with him every game. That’s what we’re trying to do around here. We want to be a hard-working team every night, and he brings that to our group.”
Sbisa, 25, has recorded 11 points (3-8-11) and 46 penalty minutes. He ranks second on the team in both hits with 149 and blocked shots with 127.
“In this division, we’re playing against L.A., San Jose, Anaheim – big, heavy teams – and he plays his best games against big, heavy teams,” said Benning. “He’s a guy that can separate forwards from the puck, he has his strength, and he’s young. He’s 25 years old. He has one year of restricted free agency (remaining) and then we bought two years of unrestricted with him. So I feel it’s a good deal – for him and for the team.”
Born in Italy and raised in Switzerland, Sbisa has produced 67 points in 340 career NHL games the Canucks, Ducks, and Philadelphia Flyers, who drafted him 19th overall in 2008.
“He’s continued to improve all year,” said Benning. “He’s physical, he blocks shots, he’s an old throw-back, stay-at-home, physical defenceman. I like the way he plays, and I think he’s an important guy going forward.”
Benning announced that winger Derek Dorsett and defenceman Luca Sbisa have signed contract extensions. Dorsett, a bruising fourth liner who plays way above his limited size, received a new four-year deal through 2018-19. Sbisa, who has emerged as a top-six rearguard, signed a new three-year contract.
Both are completing their first season with the team following off-season trades from the New York Rangers and Anaheim Ducks, respectively. The new contracts came after the Canucks qualified for the Stanley Cup playoffs Tuesday night as the Los Angeles Kings lost to the Edmonton Oilers.
“We have some good, young players that are going to be on our team here in the next few years, so we want to make sure that we surround them with the right type of people and players,” said Benning. “And, I feel, with the decisions that we’ve made today, we’re going in that direction.”
Dorsett, a 28-year-old Kindersley, Sask., native has posted single-season career highs in points (25) and assists (18). He leads the team in hits (163) and his team-leading 169 penalty minutes rank fourth in the NHL. In 408 career NHL games with the Canucks, Rangers, and Columbus Blue Jackets, he has recorded 98 points (38-60-98) and1,024 penalty minutes. He also has one post-season assist, with the Rangers last season as he helped them reach the Stanley Cup finals.
According to Canucks coach Willie Desjardins, he stands out in many ways. He also stands up for his teammates.
“Everybody knows that when he’s on the ice, your back’s covered,” said Desjardins. “There’s no problems. He’s out there. He’ll always come to your aid, and I think players appreciate that.”
“Derek Dorsett has the heart of a lion,” added Benning. “He plays hard every game. Some games, he doesn’t feel good. … But you get the same effort with him every game. That’s what we’re trying to do around here. We want to be a hard-working team every night, and he brings that to our group.”
Sbisa, 25, has recorded 11 points (3-8-11) and 46 penalty minutes. He ranks second on the team in both hits with 149 and blocked shots with 127.
“In this division, we’re playing against L.A., San Jose, Anaheim – big, heavy teams – and he plays his best games against big, heavy teams,” said Benning. “He’s a guy that can separate forwards from the puck, he has his strength, and he’s young. He’s 25 years old. He has one year of restricted free agency (remaining) and then we bought two years of unrestricted with him. So I feel it’s a good deal – for him and for the team.”
Born in Italy and raised in Switzerland, Sbisa has produced 67 points in 340 career NHL games the Canucks, Ducks, and Philadelphia Flyers, who drafted him 19th overall in 2008.
“He’s continued to improve all year,” said Benning. “He’s physical, he blocks shots, he’s an old throw-back, stay-at-home, physical defenceman. I like the way he plays, and I think he’s an important guy going forward.”
Willie Desjardins allows himself some rare excitement
Willie Desjardins finally caved in Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.
The Vancouver Canucks coach has tried not to get too excited while leading an NHL bench for the first time. But he couldn’t help but celebrate a little after the Canucks made the playoffs as a result of the Los Angeles Kings’ loss in Edmonton on Tuesday night.
“I was at home and watching it,” said Desjardins after practice Wednesday at Rogers Arena. “It was big. It’s been a long season, and you never allow yourself to think about getting in because, for me, I don’t want to lose my edge. I want to make sure we’re just focused on getting in. So it’s great to get in. Hopefully, we can find a way to win a couple games and start at home.”
The Canucks (46-29-5) sit second in the Pacific Division and close out the regular season with home games Thursday against Arizona and Saturday against Edmonton. Desjardins has returned them to the playoffs after they failed to qualify last season, for the first time since 2008, under former coach John Tortorella.
But Desjardins downplayed the accomplishment of being a first-year NHL head coach and getting his team into the post-season.
“Wherever you’re at, it’s always exciting to get into the playoffs,” he said. “You’re focused on it for the whole year. Right from the start of the year, as soon as you’re in training camp, that’s the one thing you start thinking about. And throughout the year, you look and monitor your spots. There was lots of times when we went on the road and we’d say: Well, this will define the team. And, there was three or four times that happened. When you’re in that situation, you know this is a real tough trip coming up. Can we get through it? Where are we going to be at?
“So, I think, for myself, the whole year has been a grind where there’s good teams and, every night, you play a team that can beat you. You have to be ready. So it’s been a long grind, but it’s so exciting right now to finally get a chance to get in – and it’s a great feeling.”
Actually, the Canucks have stayed in playoff position for virtually the whole season. After going 16-7-1 in the first two months, they battled through injuries and adversity to keep the Kings and Calgary Flames, among others, chasing them. At one point, the Canucks defence corps was decimated by injuries, but they still managed to win key road games and beat top teams like Montreal, St. Louis, Anaheim, Chicago and the New York Rangers. They also bettered Pittsburgh and the New York Islanders when they were at the top of their game and in the upper echelons of the standings, contrary to their current plight.
“What stands out to me is, certain times, you look at teams and they win games that they probably, on paper, shouldn’t win just (because of) the nature of the schedule, just how they’re playing,” said Desjardins. “And, this team has had the ability to win games where you’d think: Oh, they’re not going the right way right now. It’s gonna be tough.
“I think, whenever you have a team like that, it makes it a little bit special. This team has found some ways to win some games. To me, that’s a real good sign when you look back at it.”
Desjardins, who rose to the NHL from the Canadian university, junior and minor pro ranks, appears unlikely to be a coach of the year candidate, but he is beginning to gain some notoriety. General manager Jim Benning and players were quick to praise the job that he has done.
“Willie’s done an excellent job,” said Benning. “He’s a tireless worker, first of all. He’s taken this group and I think he’s getting the best out of every player in that team, and the guys have bought in and they play hard for him every night. Even when we get down in games and stuff, our guys never give up. They might run out of time and stuff at the end of the game, but they never give up til the final buzzer.”
Desjardins has managed to refresh a veteran core that Tortorella contended became “stale” last season. Defenceman Kevin Bieksa, critical at the best of times, refused to compare the two campaigns but praised Desjardins
“I don’t care too much about what happened last year,” said Bieksa. “I think Willie’s done a great job this year of coming in and getting the most out of guys and approaching different guys different ways allowing guys to grow and to make mistakes and to mature. You’re seeing different lines and different defence pairings out at crucial times throughout the season. That’s to grow and prepare them, to them in difficult situations so, come playoff time, everybody’s ready to go and really contribute.”
Winger Jannik Hansen said Desjardins has done many little things right while rolling four lines all season and emphasizing a puck-possession game. As a result, they’re creating more offence and not “throwing pucks away as much.”
“He came in and he wanted to play to our strengths,” said Hansen. “You’ve seen what the (Sedin) twins can do when they have the puck. You don’t want them to dump the puck in and try to run guys out of the building.”
Defencemen have also become more involved in the play, and the loyalty to the four-line approach has allowed the use of different combinations depending on the circumstances.
“It hasn’t really mattered who’s been in and out of the lineup,” said Hansen.
In addition to refreshing the veteran core, Desjardins has integrated rookies into the squad, including centres Bo Horvat and Linden Vey, and winger Ronalds Kenins. Despite their first-year status, they have seen considerable ice time.
Horvat has excelled after Tortorella made it clear he was not willing to give him ice time last season and sent him back junior. Tortorella was also prone to reducing his bench drastically late in games.
Captain Henrik Sedin said Desjardins has made everyone feel that they’re involved.
“When you’re playing for him, it doesn’t matter what line you’re on,” said Sedin. “You feel that, if you play well and you contribute, you’re going to play and get more minutes – and you get a chance to contribute each and every night.”
Sedin said the playoff berth does not necessarily put closure on last season's forgettable campaign. He noted that the Canucks excelled until January. But Desjardins feels that players suggested that they want to make up for last season's playoff miss.
“A lot of our guys feel that it’s a chance to prove some things and make a difference,” said Desjardins. “I know, through the season, how passionate the fans are here, and I know we’re excited to get into playoffs. But, now, we want to do something with it.”
The Vancouver Canucks coach has tried not to get too excited while leading an NHL bench for the first time. But he couldn’t help but celebrate a little after the Canucks made the playoffs as a result of the Los Angeles Kings’ loss in Edmonton on Tuesday night.
“I was at home and watching it,” said Desjardins after practice Wednesday at Rogers Arena. “It was big. It’s been a long season, and you never allow yourself to think about getting in because, for me, I don’t want to lose my edge. I want to make sure we’re just focused on getting in. So it’s great to get in. Hopefully, we can find a way to win a couple games and start at home.”
The Canucks (46-29-5) sit second in the Pacific Division and close out the regular season with home games Thursday against Arizona and Saturday against Edmonton. Desjardins has returned them to the playoffs after they failed to qualify last season, for the first time since 2008, under former coach John Tortorella.
But Desjardins downplayed the accomplishment of being a first-year NHL head coach and getting his team into the post-season.
“Wherever you’re at, it’s always exciting to get into the playoffs,” he said. “You’re focused on it for the whole year. Right from the start of the year, as soon as you’re in training camp, that’s the one thing you start thinking about. And throughout the year, you look and monitor your spots. There was lots of times when we went on the road and we’d say: Well, this will define the team. And, there was three or four times that happened. When you’re in that situation, you know this is a real tough trip coming up. Can we get through it? Where are we going to be at?
“So, I think, for myself, the whole year has been a grind where there’s good teams and, every night, you play a team that can beat you. You have to be ready. So it’s been a long grind, but it’s so exciting right now to finally get a chance to get in – and it’s a great feeling.”
Actually, the Canucks have stayed in playoff position for virtually the whole season. After going 16-7-1 in the first two months, they battled through injuries and adversity to keep the Kings and Calgary Flames, among others, chasing them. At one point, the Canucks defence corps was decimated by injuries, but they still managed to win key road games and beat top teams like Montreal, St. Louis, Anaheim, Chicago and the New York Rangers. They also bettered Pittsburgh and the New York Islanders when they were at the top of their game and in the upper echelons of the standings, contrary to their current plight.
“What stands out to me is, certain times, you look at teams and they win games that they probably, on paper, shouldn’t win just (because of) the nature of the schedule, just how they’re playing,” said Desjardins. “And, this team has had the ability to win games where you’d think: Oh, they’re not going the right way right now. It’s gonna be tough.
“I think, whenever you have a team like that, it makes it a little bit special. This team has found some ways to win some games. To me, that’s a real good sign when you look back at it.”
Desjardins, who rose to the NHL from the Canadian university, junior and minor pro ranks, appears unlikely to be a coach of the year candidate, but he is beginning to gain some notoriety. General manager Jim Benning and players were quick to praise the job that he has done.
“Willie’s done an excellent job,” said Benning. “He’s a tireless worker, first of all. He’s taken this group and I think he’s getting the best out of every player in that team, and the guys have bought in and they play hard for him every night. Even when we get down in games and stuff, our guys never give up. They might run out of time and stuff at the end of the game, but they never give up til the final buzzer.”
Desjardins has managed to refresh a veteran core that Tortorella contended became “stale” last season. Defenceman Kevin Bieksa, critical at the best of times, refused to compare the two campaigns but praised Desjardins
“I don’t care too much about what happened last year,” said Bieksa. “I think Willie’s done a great job this year of coming in and getting the most out of guys and approaching different guys different ways allowing guys to grow and to make mistakes and to mature. You’re seeing different lines and different defence pairings out at crucial times throughout the season. That’s to grow and prepare them, to them in difficult situations so, come playoff time, everybody’s ready to go and really contribute.”
Winger Jannik Hansen said Desjardins has done many little things right while rolling four lines all season and emphasizing a puck-possession game. As a result, they’re creating more offence and not “throwing pucks away as much.”
“He came in and he wanted to play to our strengths,” said Hansen. “You’ve seen what the (Sedin) twins can do when they have the puck. You don’t want them to dump the puck in and try to run guys out of the building.”
Defencemen have also become more involved in the play, and the loyalty to the four-line approach has allowed the use of different combinations depending on the circumstances.
“It hasn’t really mattered who’s been in and out of the lineup,” said Hansen.
In addition to refreshing the veteran core, Desjardins has integrated rookies into the squad, including centres Bo Horvat and Linden Vey, and winger Ronalds Kenins. Despite their first-year status, they have seen considerable ice time.
Horvat has excelled after Tortorella made it clear he was not willing to give him ice time last season and sent him back junior. Tortorella was also prone to reducing his bench drastically late in games.
Captain Henrik Sedin said Desjardins has made everyone feel that they’re involved.
“When you’re playing for him, it doesn’t matter what line you’re on,” said Sedin. “You feel that, if you play well and you contribute, you’re going to play and get more minutes – and you get a chance to contribute each and every night.”
Sedin said the playoff berth does not necessarily put closure on last season's forgettable campaign. He noted that the Canucks excelled until January. But Desjardins feels that players suggested that they want to make up for last season's playoff miss.
“A lot of our guys feel that it’s a chance to prove some things and make a difference,” said Desjardins. “I know, through the season, how passionate the fans are here, and I know we’re excited to get into playoffs. But, now, we want to do something with it.”
Monday, April 6, 2015
Richardson and Kassian in limbo as playoffs approach
Mum's the word on injuries as the Vancouver Canucks attempt to get into the Stanley Cup playoffs this week.
Centre Brad Richardson and winger Zack Kassian's status came up for discussion after Monday's morning skate in advance of key game against the Los Angeles Kings at Rogers Arena. Canucks coach Willie Desjardins would clearly love to have them back as the post-season approaches, but he was in no mood to clarify their status.
“They’ve been off for a bit,” Desjardins understated. “I’m not going to talk about injuries. This is probably the last time I talk about them. Those are certainly injuries that we did not expect. I thought (Richardson) might play the game after he got hurt. So that injury’s been a long injury. I think, the Kassian one, every day you hope it might be better, and it just hasn’t come along like we hoped."
Richardson, a workhorse third-line centre whose game suits the playoff style, has been limited to 45 games this season because of a foot and ankle problem. He has played only two games since early January, managing a respectable eight goals and 13 assists in what can best be described as grinder and penalty-killing roles. Just when the 30-year-old Belleville, Ont., native thought he was back for the long haul, the injury flared up he played two games in mid-March.
Kassian was reviving his game when he was sidelined with apparent back troubles from which he suffered previously. He has the big body, speed, and physical game that coaches covet during playoffs. But the 24-year-old Windsor, Ont., native has not played since a March 14 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs.
When either Richardson or Kassian will return is anybody's guess. The Canucks conclude the NHL regular season with games Monday against the Kings, Thursday against Arizona and Saturday versus Edmonton.
"I won’t address it after this, but there are (injured players) that we expected to be back sooner," said Desjardins. "It turned out to be a little bit later than we thought it was going to be.”
Centre Brad Richardson and winger Zack Kassian's status came up for discussion after Monday's morning skate in advance of key game against the Los Angeles Kings at Rogers Arena. Canucks coach Willie Desjardins would clearly love to have them back as the post-season approaches, but he was in no mood to clarify their status.
“They’ve been off for a bit,” Desjardins understated. “I’m not going to talk about injuries. This is probably the last time I talk about them. Those are certainly injuries that we did not expect. I thought (Richardson) might play the game after he got hurt. So that injury’s been a long injury. I think, the Kassian one, every day you hope it might be better, and it just hasn’t come along like we hoped."
Richardson, a workhorse third-line centre whose game suits the playoff style, has been limited to 45 games this season because of a foot and ankle problem. He has played only two games since early January, managing a respectable eight goals and 13 assists in what can best be described as grinder and penalty-killing roles. Just when the 30-year-old Belleville, Ont., native thought he was back for the long haul, the injury flared up he played two games in mid-March.
Kassian was reviving his game when he was sidelined with apparent back troubles from which he suffered previously. He has the big body, speed, and physical game that coaches covet during playoffs. But the 24-year-old Windsor, Ont., native has not played since a March 14 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs.
When either Richardson or Kassian will return is anybody's guess. The Canucks conclude the NHL regular season with games Monday against the Kings, Thursday against Arizona and Saturday versus Edmonton.
"I won’t address it after this, but there are (injured players) that we expected to be back sooner," said Desjardins. "It turned out to be a little bit later than we thought it was going to be.”
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Kekuta Manneh outshines Robbie Keane as Caps win
Many people came to see Robbie Keane shine at B.C. Place Stadium on Saturday night – but, instead, Kekuta Manneh stole the show.
Manneh, a 21-year-old Gambian scored the only goal the Vancouver Whitecaps needed in a 2-0 victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy while Keane, the famed Irish international, was held in check throughout the game. The Whitecaps posted a franchise-record fourth consecutive win and moved into first place overall for the first time since joining MLS in 2011. The Galaxy fell to 1-2-2.
“I wouldn’t say it’s (my) best game of the season,” said Manneh. “I felt that the goal gave a lot to that. But I felt that I played well in Chicago and the first game against Toronto. But the goal (against L.A.) completes my performance. If I had a goal in the first game against Toronto, I would say that, probably, that’s my best game.”
In the past two seasons, Manneh has mixed some magical moments with inconsistency while still maturing physically and trying to adjust to the pace and physicality of MLS. The first four games of this season spelled more of the same, but he rescued Saturday’s contest, which had plenty of hype considering the opposition, from being a tedious affair.
While the first half was scoreless, Manneh’s chances, which went high, wide and off the crossbar, provided some consolation as Vancouver dominated but could not put shots on the net.
In the second half, he took a lead ball from Pedro Morales, raced in on goal and beat L.A. goalkeeper Jaime Penedo with a low shot in the 56th minute. The goal, mercifully, opened up the play, and Octavio Rivero put the Caps ahead 2-0 in the 66th minute as he converted a Nicolas Mezquida rebound from in close.
“I told (Manneh) he had done very well in the first half without hitting the target,” said Vancouver coach Carl Robinson. “I told him in the second half that he needed to stay positive and hit the target, and he did so it was a good performance. I think he has shown over the past couple of weeks glimpses of (his scoring potential), but for 70-odd minutes he was outstanding today.”
Robinson replaced Manneh with Darren Mattocks in the 78th minute. But for all intents and purposes, the game was over by then as Keane rarely had the ball and his strike partner, Gyasi Zardes, also generated little.
“They were the better team all night,” said Keane. “They outplayed us the entire match. They out-competed us from the start, and it was a big factor in the game. Give them credit. They outplayed us in every aspect of the game.”
As he went off, Manneh could rest comfortably with the fact that he is likely to start again Wednesday against the Columbus Crew. After being used primarily as a substitute the past two seasons, he has started all four games that he has played this season while missing the other because of a suspension for a two-footed tackle.
With Saturday’s effort, he served notice that it won’t be easy to knock him out of the starting 11 in games to come. The strong showing was important to him because he wanted to excel amidst recurring reports that Cristian Techera, a goal-scoring winger for River Plate in Uruguay’s top division, is due to join the Whitecaps in the next few days. Last week, the Whitecaps obtained an international roster spot from the New England Revolution for allocation money, so it appears that, even if Techera doesn’t arrive, an acquisition of some sort is planned.
“We have a lot of great players on the team and everybody’s fighting for a spot,” said Manneh. “I feel like this performance really helped me."
Manneh, who is listed as a midfielder but moves up often, was credited with seven shots, two of which were on target. He threatened regularly from the left wing with Canadian rookie left back Sam Adekugbe often sending the ball his way up the sideline or while overlapping.
Morales, who played one of his better games, also did a good job of distributing the ball so that others could feed Manneh, who likes the left-leaning approach.
“I like to attack, I like to go forward, that’s my game. That’s the setup,” he said of getting him the ball on the left wing. “We try to create one-on-one situations for me, so then I can try to create chances for my teammates or myself, and it looked like it worked today.”
While the crowd oohed and aahed at Manneh’s opportunistic moments, his teammates were also impressed.
“(His goal) was fantastic,” said goalkeeper David Ousted. “He’s done it all week in training. We know he can do it. It’s fantastic to see him get what he deserves from all the hard work today.”
Added centre back Kendall Waston: “He’s a very important player for us. He’s a young guy that wants to reach the top level. I think he’s improving every day, and he wants to get better. Today was a nice goal for him because in the last games, he got other opportunities when he couldn’t score, so today we’re very happy for him that he could score.”
Manneh, chosen fourth overall by Vancouver in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft, now has 11 career goals in North America’s top circuit. Much of the early-season public discussion has focused on how many Rivero, a Uruguayan in his first season with Whitecaps, and Morales, the club’s second-year captain, will score this year.
But, chances are, fans will be talking about Manneh often, too, in the weeks ahead.
"Hopefully, the next game, I can be even better,” he said.
Manneh, a 21-year-old Gambian scored the only goal the Vancouver Whitecaps needed in a 2-0 victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy while Keane, the famed Irish international, was held in check throughout the game. The Whitecaps posted a franchise-record fourth consecutive win and moved into first place overall for the first time since joining MLS in 2011. The Galaxy fell to 1-2-2.
“I wouldn’t say it’s (my) best game of the season,” said Manneh. “I felt that the goal gave a lot to that. But I felt that I played well in Chicago and the first game against Toronto. But the goal (against L.A.) completes my performance. If I had a goal in the first game against Toronto, I would say that, probably, that’s my best game.”
In the past two seasons, Manneh has mixed some magical moments with inconsistency while still maturing physically and trying to adjust to the pace and physicality of MLS. The first four games of this season spelled more of the same, but he rescued Saturday’s contest, which had plenty of hype considering the opposition, from being a tedious affair.
While the first half was scoreless, Manneh’s chances, which went high, wide and off the crossbar, provided some consolation as Vancouver dominated but could not put shots on the net.
In the second half, he took a lead ball from Pedro Morales, raced in on goal and beat L.A. goalkeeper Jaime Penedo with a low shot in the 56th minute. The goal, mercifully, opened up the play, and Octavio Rivero put the Caps ahead 2-0 in the 66th minute as he converted a Nicolas Mezquida rebound from in close.
“I told (Manneh) he had done very well in the first half without hitting the target,” said Vancouver coach Carl Robinson. “I told him in the second half that he needed to stay positive and hit the target, and he did so it was a good performance. I think he has shown over the past couple of weeks glimpses of (his scoring potential), but for 70-odd minutes he was outstanding today.”
Robinson replaced Manneh with Darren Mattocks in the 78th minute. But for all intents and purposes, the game was over by then as Keane rarely had the ball and his strike partner, Gyasi Zardes, also generated little.
“They were the better team all night,” said Keane. “They outplayed us the entire match. They out-competed us from the start, and it was a big factor in the game. Give them credit. They outplayed us in every aspect of the game.”
As he went off, Manneh could rest comfortably with the fact that he is likely to start again Wednesday against the Columbus Crew. After being used primarily as a substitute the past two seasons, he has started all four games that he has played this season while missing the other because of a suspension for a two-footed tackle.
With Saturday’s effort, he served notice that it won’t be easy to knock him out of the starting 11 in games to come. The strong showing was important to him because he wanted to excel amidst recurring reports that Cristian Techera, a goal-scoring winger for River Plate in Uruguay’s top division, is due to join the Whitecaps in the next few days. Last week, the Whitecaps obtained an international roster spot from the New England Revolution for allocation money, so it appears that, even if Techera doesn’t arrive, an acquisition of some sort is planned.
“We have a lot of great players on the team and everybody’s fighting for a spot,” said Manneh. “I feel like this performance really helped me."
Manneh, who is listed as a midfielder but moves up often, was credited with seven shots, two of which were on target. He threatened regularly from the left wing with Canadian rookie left back Sam Adekugbe often sending the ball his way up the sideline or while overlapping.
Morales, who played one of his better games, also did a good job of distributing the ball so that others could feed Manneh, who likes the left-leaning approach.
“I like to attack, I like to go forward, that’s my game. That’s the setup,” he said of getting him the ball on the left wing. “We try to create one-on-one situations for me, so then I can try to create chances for my teammates or myself, and it looked like it worked today.”
While the crowd oohed and aahed at Manneh’s opportunistic moments, his teammates were also impressed.
“(His goal) was fantastic,” said goalkeeper David Ousted. “He’s done it all week in training. We know he can do it. It’s fantastic to see him get what he deserves from all the hard work today.”
Added centre back Kendall Waston: “He’s a very important player for us. He’s a young guy that wants to reach the top level. I think he’s improving every day, and he wants to get better. Today was a nice goal for him because in the last games, he got other opportunities when he couldn’t score, so today we’re very happy for him that he could score.”
Manneh, chosen fourth overall by Vancouver in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft, now has 11 career goals in North America’s top circuit. Much of the early-season public discussion has focused on how many Rivero, a Uruguayan in his first season with Whitecaps, and Morales, the club’s second-year captain, will score this year.
But, chances are, fans will be talking about Manneh often, too, in the weeks ahead.
"Hopefully, the next game, I can be even better,” he said.
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
Buono preparing for Lulay's departure from B.C. Lions huddle
B.C. Lions general manager Wally Buono refuses to confirm whether quarterback Travis Lulay will participate in the team’s offensive mini-camp next month.
However, Buono has made another point clear. He is preparing for the day when Lulay is gone for good from the B.C. huddle.
While the team takes a patient approach to Lulay's recovery, Buono is trying to get as many alternative quarterbacks as possible ready to replace him when the time comes.
Much like this time last year, Lulay’s status as the Lions starting quarterback is in question because of a shoulder injury. Last year, he was recuperating from off-season shoulder surgery. This year, he’s recuperating from an injury to the same, throwing shoulder suffered in the lone game in which he started in 2014.
“I don’t want to say he’s going to be there,” said Buono of the mini-camp slated for three days in late April. “He’s not gonna be there if it’s gonna hurt him, or he’s not gonna be there if it’s not the best thing for him. There’s a plan in place. He understands the plan and we understand the plan.”
Lulay declined to have shoulder surgery after he was hurt in a storm-interrupted game in Ottawa last fall. He tried to recover in time for the playoffs, but could not play as expected – although he dressed for B.C.’s lone post-season game. He has been throwing in the off-season as part of a rehabilitation program devoted to strength training, but there is a nagging question of how the offensive mini-camp could affect him.
Last year, he attended the offensive mini-camp but was sidelined for training camp and the first nine games of the regular season. When it became clear that Lulay could not start the season, Buono traded a first-round draft pick to the Ottawa RedBlacks for veteran Kevin Glenn, who did an admirable job at times but also struggled in a road loss to Montreal in the East-West crossover playoff game.
Glenn has since signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders after Buono released him early in the off-season. The Lions currently have five quarterbacks, including Lulay, under contract. But only one, nominal backup John Beck, a 33-year-old former NFL journeyman, has considerable professional experience.
“The goal is to have (Lulay) ready for the regular season,” said Buono. “If him participating in the (offensive) camp is going to be part of that, so be it. If it isn’t, so be it. I don’t want you guys to be writing garbage. He’s on schedule for where we’re at. We’re very happy with it – and I think he is, too.”
The Lions also have second-year pro Travis Partridge, who spent most of last season as the No. 3 signal-caller; 2014 late-season addition Jordan Rodgers, 26, who’s the younger brother of Green Bay Packers star QB Aaron Rodgers; and rookie free agent Sam McGhee. A Howard University product, McGhee turned heads by signing with B.C. before seeing how he fares in this year’s NFL draft.
Buono said the Lions could have six or seven quarterbacks attend the mini-camp. In other words, the Lions will have enough quarterbacks to work with as new coach Jeff Tedford installs his offence and evaluates veterans and rookies alike. Buono does not want to jeopardize a potential 13 or 14 wins during the season by having Lulay suit up in the spring.
While Lulay’s presence might generate some good publicity, Buono does not want to risk his health for PR purposes, either.
“We’re not going to put him in the (mini-camp) if we think it’s going to set him back,” said Buono. “He’s a veteran quarterback. Whether he takes a throw or not isn’t going to be that important.
But finding an eventual replacement for the 31-year-old Lulay – from within the Lions roster – is imperative in the GM’s view. Accordingly, Buono ruled out a trade for a CFL veteran similar to the one he made for Glenn last year.
“We felt, at worst, (Lulay’s absence) would be, maybe, the first three to six games. By making the trade, we wanted to bring in somebody that we felt could get us over the hump. Or even during the season, if they had to come in, they could win the four games that you needed. With the loss of Thomas DeMarco (to Ottawa in the expansion draft) and Mike Reilly (in a trade to Edmonton that avoided his loss through free agency), we didn’t have the depth to overcome that. But this year, our whole focus is on Lulay.”
At least for now.
Buono has built a hall-of-fame coaching and managing career on his ability to find unheralded quarterbacking talent with the Lions and Calgary Stampeders. Last year, he contradicted his practice of developing young recruits by acquiring a CFL veteran QB, but he won’t do that again.
“I’m saying today our focus is on (Lulay),” said Buono. “We’re trying to also bring in the best young quarterbacks that are out there. I better be careful what I say here. If we bring in a guy that’s been through the mill but hasn’t succeeded, what are we doing? We just keep delaying.
“Whether (Lulay) plays a whole year or two years, we have to find the next (No. 1) guy, and this organization has done a good job of that. Like I said, we’ve lost (Reilly) and DeMarco. We were set back two, three years. So it’s going to take us a few years to catch up.
“I believe, this year, we’re catching up.”
Depending on Tedford’s wishes, said Buono, the Lions could also have six or seven quarterbacks at their main training camp in June at Kamloops, B.C.
Lulay’s health will play a large role in determining the final number.
However, Buono has made another point clear. He is preparing for the day when Lulay is gone for good from the B.C. huddle.
While the team takes a patient approach to Lulay's recovery, Buono is trying to get as many alternative quarterbacks as possible ready to replace him when the time comes.
Much like this time last year, Lulay’s status as the Lions starting quarterback is in question because of a shoulder injury. Last year, he was recuperating from off-season shoulder surgery. This year, he’s recuperating from an injury to the same, throwing shoulder suffered in the lone game in which he started in 2014.
“I don’t want to say he’s going to be there,” said Buono of the mini-camp slated for three days in late April. “He’s not gonna be there if it’s gonna hurt him, or he’s not gonna be there if it’s not the best thing for him. There’s a plan in place. He understands the plan and we understand the plan.”
Lulay declined to have shoulder surgery after he was hurt in a storm-interrupted game in Ottawa last fall. He tried to recover in time for the playoffs, but could not play as expected – although he dressed for B.C.’s lone post-season game. He has been throwing in the off-season as part of a rehabilitation program devoted to strength training, but there is a nagging question of how the offensive mini-camp could affect him.
Last year, he attended the offensive mini-camp but was sidelined for training camp and the first nine games of the regular season. When it became clear that Lulay could not start the season, Buono traded a first-round draft pick to the Ottawa RedBlacks for veteran Kevin Glenn, who did an admirable job at times but also struggled in a road loss to Montreal in the East-West crossover playoff game.
Glenn has since signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders after Buono released him early in the off-season. The Lions currently have five quarterbacks, including Lulay, under contract. But only one, nominal backup John Beck, a 33-year-old former NFL journeyman, has considerable professional experience.
“The goal is to have (Lulay) ready for the regular season,” said Buono. “If him participating in the (offensive) camp is going to be part of that, so be it. If it isn’t, so be it. I don’t want you guys to be writing garbage. He’s on schedule for where we’re at. We’re very happy with it – and I think he is, too.”
The Lions also have second-year pro Travis Partridge, who spent most of last season as the No. 3 signal-caller; 2014 late-season addition Jordan Rodgers, 26, who’s the younger brother of Green Bay Packers star QB Aaron Rodgers; and rookie free agent Sam McGhee. A Howard University product, McGhee turned heads by signing with B.C. before seeing how he fares in this year’s NFL draft.
Buono said the Lions could have six or seven quarterbacks attend the mini-camp. In other words, the Lions will have enough quarterbacks to work with as new coach Jeff Tedford installs his offence and evaluates veterans and rookies alike. Buono does not want to jeopardize a potential 13 or 14 wins during the season by having Lulay suit up in the spring.
While Lulay’s presence might generate some good publicity, Buono does not want to risk his health for PR purposes, either.
“We’re not going to put him in the (mini-camp) if we think it’s going to set him back,” said Buono. “He’s a veteran quarterback. Whether he takes a throw or not isn’t going to be that important.
But finding an eventual replacement for the 31-year-old Lulay – from within the Lions roster – is imperative in the GM’s view. Accordingly, Buono ruled out a trade for a CFL veteran similar to the one he made for Glenn last year.
“We felt, at worst, (Lulay’s absence) would be, maybe, the first three to six games. By making the trade, we wanted to bring in somebody that we felt could get us over the hump. Or even during the season, if they had to come in, they could win the four games that you needed. With the loss of Thomas DeMarco (to Ottawa in the expansion draft) and Mike Reilly (in a trade to Edmonton that avoided his loss through free agency), we didn’t have the depth to overcome that. But this year, our whole focus is on Lulay.”
At least for now.
Buono has built a hall-of-fame coaching and managing career on his ability to find unheralded quarterbacking talent with the Lions and Calgary Stampeders. Last year, he contradicted his practice of developing young recruits by acquiring a CFL veteran QB, but he won’t do that again.
“I’m saying today our focus is on (Lulay),” said Buono. “We’re trying to also bring in the best young quarterbacks that are out there. I better be careful what I say here. If we bring in a guy that’s been through the mill but hasn’t succeeded, what are we doing? We just keep delaying.
“Whether (Lulay) plays a whole year or two years, we have to find the next (No. 1) guy, and this organization has done a good job of that. Like I said, we’ve lost (Reilly) and DeMarco. We were set back two, three years. So it’s going to take us a few years to catch up.
“I believe, this year, we’re catching up.”
Depending on Tedford’s wishes, said Buono, the Lions could also have six or seven quarterbacks at their main training camp in June at Kamloops, B.C.
Lulay’s health will play a large role in determining the final number.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Earnshaw steals the show in Whitecaps debut
Robert Earnshaw could not have picked a better debut Saturday with the Vancouver Whitecaps.
The former Welsh international striker came on as a substitute with three minutes left in regular time and scored the winning goal in the 90th minute as the Whitecaps stole a 2-1 victory from the Portland Timbers at B.C. Place Stadium.
The Whitecaps (3-0-1) picked up their third win in the first four games of the 2015 MLS season while the Timbers (0-3-1) remained winless in as many outings.
“I was thinking: I just need a chance. Just give me one chance,” said Earnshaw, who continued his habit of scoring in his first game with a new team. “I think it’s amazing because, the amount of times I see debuts, and things just happen to go your way, especially when it’s spoken by one player: It’s my debut. What an amazing feeling.”
Earnshaw, 33, who had a long pre-season trial with the Whitecaps and only signed a contract Wednesday, stole the show in a poor performance from the home side. He took a through ball from Pedro Morales, narrowly beat a Portland offside trap and chipped a shot over charging Timbers goalkeeper Adam Larsen Kwarasey.
Afterwards, the usually reserved Earnshaw did a flip in mid-air and a jig near a corner flag as fans danced with him.
“I didn’t know what to do,” he said. “I was so moved, I was so happy that I kind of lost myself in the moment.”
The winning tally came five minutes after Portland’s Fanendo Adi put in a rebound after a Rodney Wallace shot bounced off Vancouver goalkeeper David Ousted’s hands. Nicolas Mezquida opened the scoring for the Whitecaps with a well-placed free kick that went over a defensive wall and curled into the top left corner of the net in the 15th minute.
After that point, the Timbers controlled play the rest of the way as the Whitecaps rarely managed to get out of their half of the pitch – let alone create scoring chances.
Earnshaw rescued his new team from the jaws of defeat while helping to resuscitate his own career. A product of Cardiff City’s youth program, Earnshaw made his professional debut and 201 appearances with the senior side between 1998 and 2004 while scoring 105 goals in all competitions. with the senior side in 1998. He also toiled for English Premier League side West Brom Albion as well as Norwich City and Derby County before moving to MLS.
In the past two MLS seasons, the Cardiff native has accumulated 11 goals, while starting 24 of his 31 appearances. Last season, he only played 174 minutes with the Chicago Fire, but still managed to score three goals. In 2013, he posted eight goals while starting 23 of his 26 appearances with Toronto FC.
Since leaving English squad Nottingham Forest in 2011, he has played for Cardiff in his homeland and Israeli Premier League side Maccabi Tel Aviv and Blackpool – for just one game – back in England. The delay in signing with Vancouver created a fair amount of uncertainty about his future. (He announced his retirement from the Wales men’s national team the same day he signed with the Caps.)
Hence, Saturday’s game-winning goal, the 217th of his career had considerable meaning.
“The negotiations went on a little bit long, but it was all about me getting myself right, getting fit, getting ready and getting to know the team,” he said. “(The goal) feels amazing, it feels amazing, because it feels like I’ve worked for this. I’ve worked hard this pre-season. Actually, I haven’t had a good pre-season for a few years. So that was one of the reasons I came here, in order to have a good few weeks in pre-season and really get right, get fit and I did.”
The winning goal also meant a lot to Whitecaps coach Carl Robinson, a fellow Welshman who played on the national team with Earnshaw.
“Carl was saying to me just know that, as soon as I came on, he just felt that I was going to score,” said Earnshaw.
Robinson told reporters the same story while making his decision to insert Earnshaw look astute.
"I've known him for a number of years, and I brought him here because he can score goals," said Robinson.
But Earnshaw gave Robinson another, much more important reason to celebrate than seeing an old teammate do well.
“Today, I thought we were average at best, but we stole a victory in the end,” said Robinson. “So, yeah, I’m very happy.”
While Earnshaw stole the victory, Vancouver goalkeeper David Ousted robbed the Timbers on dangerous opportunities. Ousted was credited with four saves compared to just one for Kwarasey.
“(Ousted) was excellent,” said Robinson. “He won us a game today. Obviously, the subs coming on at the end made a big difference for us. They all had an impact in the game, but without (Ousted), we would have lost the game and, probably deservedly, should have lost the game. … They were the better team for a long stretch, because we couldn’t get to grips with them. When it went to 1-1, I would have taken a draw at that point.”
Ousted got lucky when Portland second-half substitute Dairon Asprilla bounced a header off the turf and barely over the crossbar in the 89th minute. But the Vancouver goalkeeper also made a point-blank save after Earnshaw’s goal and caught a dangerous free kick in the closing seconds of the game.
“I gave us a chance to win today, and that’s why I’m in there,” said Ousted. “It was a delight see Earnie get that goal. It just shows what a wonderful football player he is. He’s a great addition to our team.”
The former Welsh international striker came on as a substitute with three minutes left in regular time and scored the winning goal in the 90th minute as the Whitecaps stole a 2-1 victory from the Portland Timbers at B.C. Place Stadium.
The Whitecaps (3-0-1) picked up their third win in the first four games of the 2015 MLS season while the Timbers (0-3-1) remained winless in as many outings.
“I was thinking: I just need a chance. Just give me one chance,” said Earnshaw, who continued his habit of scoring in his first game with a new team. “I think it’s amazing because, the amount of times I see debuts, and things just happen to go your way, especially when it’s spoken by one player: It’s my debut. What an amazing feeling.”
Earnshaw, 33, who had a long pre-season trial with the Whitecaps and only signed a contract Wednesday, stole the show in a poor performance from the home side. He took a through ball from Pedro Morales, narrowly beat a Portland offside trap and chipped a shot over charging Timbers goalkeeper Adam Larsen Kwarasey.
Afterwards, the usually reserved Earnshaw did a flip in mid-air and a jig near a corner flag as fans danced with him.
“I didn’t know what to do,” he said. “I was so moved, I was so happy that I kind of lost myself in the moment.”
The winning tally came five minutes after Portland’s Fanendo Adi put in a rebound after a Rodney Wallace shot bounced off Vancouver goalkeeper David Ousted’s hands. Nicolas Mezquida opened the scoring for the Whitecaps with a well-placed free kick that went over a defensive wall and curled into the top left corner of the net in the 15th minute.
After that point, the Timbers controlled play the rest of the way as the Whitecaps rarely managed to get out of their half of the pitch – let alone create scoring chances.
Earnshaw rescued his new team from the jaws of defeat while helping to resuscitate his own career. A product of Cardiff City’s youth program, Earnshaw made his professional debut and 201 appearances with the senior side between 1998 and 2004 while scoring 105 goals in all competitions. with the senior side in 1998. He also toiled for English Premier League side West Brom Albion as well as Norwich City and Derby County before moving to MLS.
In the past two MLS seasons, the Cardiff native has accumulated 11 goals, while starting 24 of his 31 appearances. Last season, he only played 174 minutes with the Chicago Fire, but still managed to score three goals. In 2013, he posted eight goals while starting 23 of his 26 appearances with Toronto FC.
Since leaving English squad Nottingham Forest in 2011, he has played for Cardiff in his homeland and Israeli Premier League side Maccabi Tel Aviv and Blackpool – for just one game – back in England. The delay in signing with Vancouver created a fair amount of uncertainty about his future. (He announced his retirement from the Wales men’s national team the same day he signed with the Caps.)
Hence, Saturday’s game-winning goal, the 217th of his career had considerable meaning.
“The negotiations went on a little bit long, but it was all about me getting myself right, getting fit, getting ready and getting to know the team,” he said. “(The goal) feels amazing, it feels amazing, because it feels like I’ve worked for this. I’ve worked hard this pre-season. Actually, I haven’t had a good pre-season for a few years. So that was one of the reasons I came here, in order to have a good few weeks in pre-season and really get right, get fit and I did.”
The winning goal also meant a lot to Whitecaps coach Carl Robinson, a fellow Welshman who played on the national team with Earnshaw.
“Carl was saying to me just know that, as soon as I came on, he just felt that I was going to score,” said Earnshaw.
Robinson told reporters the same story while making his decision to insert Earnshaw look astute.
"I've known him for a number of years, and I brought him here because he can score goals," said Robinson.
But Earnshaw gave Robinson another, much more important reason to celebrate than seeing an old teammate do well.
“Today, I thought we were average at best, but we stole a victory in the end,” said Robinson. “So, yeah, I’m very happy.”
While Earnshaw stole the victory, Vancouver goalkeeper David Ousted robbed the Timbers on dangerous opportunities. Ousted was credited with four saves compared to just one for Kwarasey.
“(Ousted) was excellent,” said Robinson. “He won us a game today. Obviously, the subs coming on at the end made a big difference for us. They all had an impact in the game, but without (Ousted), we would have lost the game and, probably deservedly, should have lost the game. … They were the better team for a long stretch, because we couldn’t get to grips with them. When it went to 1-1, I would have taken a draw at that point.”
Ousted got lucky when Portland second-half substitute Dairon Asprilla bounced a header off the turf and barely over the crossbar in the 89th minute. But the Vancouver goalkeeper also made a point-blank save after Earnshaw’s goal and caught a dangerous free kick in the closing seconds of the game.
“I gave us a chance to win today, and that’s why I’m in there,” said Ousted. “It was a delight see Earnie get that goal. It just shows what a wonderful football player he is. He’s a great addition to our team.”
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Several Canucks making Masterton nominee pick difficult
The Vancouver Canucks are not making it easy for the local chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Association to nominate a Bill Masterton Trophy candidate this year.
In past seasons, the Canucks had few legitimate candidates. But this season, it can be argued, they have a number of worthy nominees. Some of the obvious choices include: forwards Alex Burrows, Henrik and Daniel Sedin and defenceman Alex Edler. Rearguard Chris Tanev and goalie Eddie Lack are also in the discussion.
Unfortunately, only one nominee can be selected, causing some angst among voters as Monday’s deadline for the chapter’s final pick draws near.
The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, named after the late Minnesota North Star who died of an on-ice injury, is an annual award under the trusteeship of the PHWA and is given to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. The winner is selected in a poll of all chapters of the PHWA at the end of the regular season. But first, each chapter nominates a candidate.
Often, injuries or other personal or family healthy woes suffered in the previous season – and ensuing comebacks – factor into the selection process. New York Rangers forward Dominic Moore won the Masterton in 2013-14, when he returned after taking a leave of absence from the NHL in the spring of 2012 to care for his wife, Katie, after she had been diagnosed with a rare form of liver cancer. She passed away at the age of 32 in January of 2013. After resuming his career, Moore played a leading role on a Rangers team that placed second in the Metropolitan Division with 96 points and reached the Stanley Cup finals.
In 2012-13, Minnesota Wild goaltender Josh Harding earned the honours after battling Multiple Sclerosis – although, sadly, he has been out of the NHL all of this season because of effects of the disease and a foot injury suffered in the minors.
Comebacks are likely to influence the voting heavily again this year – and the Canucks have no shortage of players who have bounced back from injury and adversity.
If Vancouver winger Alex Burrows had his way, Henrik and Daniel Sedin would be in the running.
“The twins are always (good candidates) every year,” said Burrows. “They do so much in the community. They’re such great teammates. They show perseverance every year and they don’t miss games. They lead the way for us. I think they’re always good candidates.”
In a unique twist, one voter wanted to make the two Sedins one entry, because it’s hard to differentiate their individual accomplishments from each other. Alas, a two-horse entry is allowed in horseracing – the Sedins’ other favourite sport – but not in the Masterton voting process, so that idea was nixed. Each writer must select three potential nominees – and, even in the case of the Sedins, there are no two-for-one deals.
It says here that Henrik is a slightly better choice than Daniel because the Canucks captain played three fewer games last season while battling injuries much of the season.
“(Henrik) is always up there,” said Burrows. “He leads the way for us on and off the ice. He’s so good on the ice, but people don’t get the chance to see behind the scenes what he does, how he prepares, how he carries the load and shows everybody, the young guys, how to be a true professional. I’m sure he’d be another good candidate.”
But the decision of one Sedin over the other is highly debatable. Heading into Saturday’s game against Dallas, the twins shared the club’s scoring lead with 66 points after they both dealt with injuries last season. Henrik had one more goal (17) while Daniel had one more assist (50).
But Bieksa disputes the notion that Henrik, who saw his career consecutive-game streak end in 2013-14, has had a bounceback season.
“I wouldn’t say that Henrik had a bad season by any stretch last year,” said Bieksa. “His point totals were down, but so were everybody’s. Certainly, this year, him and Danny have stayed healthy, and they lead the charge offensively when they’re going.”
Burrows would be a worthy candidate based on the fact that he has thrived this season after battling injuries and struggling under former coach John Tortorella who, according to multiple reports, wanted the club to buy out his contract. Prior to Saturday’s game, Burrows had 14 goals and 14 assists, and his 28 points were almost double last season’s total of 15. Perhaps more significantly, he has managed to regain his place on the top line with the Sedins – while seeing duty on all four lines at different times of the season. Also, he has been used in all situations and improved his plus-minus mark to one (before Saturday) from minus-nine in 2013-14.
While again battling injury, he has helped the Canucks hold a playoff position for most of the season.
“Burrows has had a really good year,” said Bieksa. “I think he’s been healthy, which has made a big difference. He couldn’t get healthy, couldn’t stay healthy last year, got hurt, broke his foot, so I think that’s a key thing, being able to stay in game shape. Burr’s a heart-and-soul guy, too, so when he’s going, a lot of guys around him are following him. He’s contagious in that way.”
And then there’s Edler. He placed last in the NHL in 2013-14 with a minus-39 mark, despite being limited to 45 games due to a back injury that required surgery. But he had a plus-nine mark before Saturday’s contest and his 23 points exceeded last season’s total of 22. He had also logged an average 24:04 of ice time while helping to ease the strain on an injury-riddled defence corps.
“Edler has had a steady season as well,” said Bieksa. “He’s battled a few injuries at different times, but he’s just been real solid, steady.”
In other words, Edler also makes it difficult to choose a Canucks representative for the Masterton.
But all of the angst might not matter, because there are some obvious candidates elsewhere. Kris Letang of the Pittsburgh Penguins ranks among the league’s top-scoring defencemen after suffering a stroke, while Minnesota goaltender Devan Dubnyk has revived his career. Dubnyk drew his 35th consecutive start for the Wild on Saturday after being traded to the Wild from Arizona early in the season and playing with Edmonton, Nashville and Montreal’s AHL farm team in Hamilton in 2013-14.
“I said right at the start of the year coming into the beginning of the year that I was just really going to enjoy every chance that I got to play again,” said Dubnyk while passing through Vancouver. “Every 60 minutes I just got to play, I was just going to not think past it and just really enjoy that 60 minutes that I got.”
He has enjoyed himself immensely – while not making it easier for writers to identify Masterton nominees elsewhere.
In the end, the Vancouver PHWA chapter’s difficulties will likely be moot, because no Canuck has ever won the award.
And, it appears unlikely that a Canuck will take it home this season.
In past seasons, the Canucks had few legitimate candidates. But this season, it can be argued, they have a number of worthy nominees. Some of the obvious choices include: forwards Alex Burrows, Henrik and Daniel Sedin and defenceman Alex Edler. Rearguard Chris Tanev and goalie Eddie Lack are also in the discussion.
Unfortunately, only one nominee can be selected, causing some angst among voters as Monday’s deadline for the chapter’s final pick draws near.
The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, named after the late Minnesota North Star who died of an on-ice injury, is an annual award under the trusteeship of the PHWA and is given to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. The winner is selected in a poll of all chapters of the PHWA at the end of the regular season. But first, each chapter nominates a candidate.
Often, injuries or other personal or family healthy woes suffered in the previous season – and ensuing comebacks – factor into the selection process. New York Rangers forward Dominic Moore won the Masterton in 2013-14, when he returned after taking a leave of absence from the NHL in the spring of 2012 to care for his wife, Katie, after she had been diagnosed with a rare form of liver cancer. She passed away at the age of 32 in January of 2013. After resuming his career, Moore played a leading role on a Rangers team that placed second in the Metropolitan Division with 96 points and reached the Stanley Cup finals.
In 2012-13, Minnesota Wild goaltender Josh Harding earned the honours after battling Multiple Sclerosis – although, sadly, he has been out of the NHL all of this season because of effects of the disease and a foot injury suffered in the minors.
Comebacks are likely to influence the voting heavily again this year – and the Canucks have no shortage of players who have bounced back from injury and adversity.
If Vancouver winger Alex Burrows had his way, Henrik and Daniel Sedin would be in the running.
“The twins are always (good candidates) every year,” said Burrows. “They do so much in the community. They’re such great teammates. They show perseverance every year and they don’t miss games. They lead the way for us. I think they’re always good candidates.”
In a unique twist, one voter wanted to make the two Sedins one entry, because it’s hard to differentiate their individual accomplishments from each other. Alas, a two-horse entry is allowed in horseracing – the Sedins’ other favourite sport – but not in the Masterton voting process, so that idea was nixed. Each writer must select three potential nominees – and, even in the case of the Sedins, there are no two-for-one deals.
It says here that Henrik is a slightly better choice than Daniel because the Canucks captain played three fewer games last season while battling injuries much of the season.
“(Henrik) is always up there,” said Burrows. “He leads the way for us on and off the ice. He’s so good on the ice, but people don’t get the chance to see behind the scenes what he does, how he prepares, how he carries the load and shows everybody, the young guys, how to be a true professional. I’m sure he’d be another good candidate.”
But the decision of one Sedin over the other is highly debatable. Heading into Saturday’s game against Dallas, the twins shared the club’s scoring lead with 66 points after they both dealt with injuries last season. Henrik had one more goal (17) while Daniel had one more assist (50).
But Bieksa disputes the notion that Henrik, who saw his career consecutive-game streak end in 2013-14, has had a bounceback season.
“I wouldn’t say that Henrik had a bad season by any stretch last year,” said Bieksa. “His point totals were down, but so were everybody’s. Certainly, this year, him and Danny have stayed healthy, and they lead the charge offensively when they’re going.”
Burrows would be a worthy candidate based on the fact that he has thrived this season after battling injuries and struggling under former coach John Tortorella who, according to multiple reports, wanted the club to buy out his contract. Prior to Saturday’s game, Burrows had 14 goals and 14 assists, and his 28 points were almost double last season’s total of 15. Perhaps more significantly, he has managed to regain his place on the top line with the Sedins – while seeing duty on all four lines at different times of the season. Also, he has been used in all situations and improved his plus-minus mark to one (before Saturday) from minus-nine in 2013-14.
While again battling injury, he has helped the Canucks hold a playoff position for most of the season.
“Burrows has had a really good year,” said Bieksa. “I think he’s been healthy, which has made a big difference. He couldn’t get healthy, couldn’t stay healthy last year, got hurt, broke his foot, so I think that’s a key thing, being able to stay in game shape. Burr’s a heart-and-soul guy, too, so when he’s going, a lot of guys around him are following him. He’s contagious in that way.”
And then there’s Edler. He placed last in the NHL in 2013-14 with a minus-39 mark, despite being limited to 45 games due to a back injury that required surgery. But he had a plus-nine mark before Saturday’s contest and his 23 points exceeded last season’s total of 22. He had also logged an average 24:04 of ice time while helping to ease the strain on an injury-riddled defence corps.
“Edler has had a steady season as well,” said Bieksa. “He’s battled a few injuries at different times, but he’s just been real solid, steady.”
In other words, Edler also makes it difficult to choose a Canucks representative for the Masterton.
But all of the angst might not matter, because there are some obvious candidates elsewhere. Kris Letang of the Pittsburgh Penguins ranks among the league’s top-scoring defencemen after suffering a stroke, while Minnesota goaltender Devan Dubnyk has revived his career. Dubnyk drew his 35th consecutive start for the Wild on Saturday after being traded to the Wild from Arizona early in the season and playing with Edmonton, Nashville and Montreal’s AHL farm team in Hamilton in 2013-14.
“I said right at the start of the year coming into the beginning of the year that I was just really going to enjoy every chance that I got to play again,” said Dubnyk while passing through Vancouver. “Every 60 minutes I just got to play, I was just going to not think past it and just really enjoy that 60 minutes that I got.”
He has enjoyed himself immensely – while not making it easier for writers to identify Masterton nominees elsewhere.
In the end, the Vancouver PHWA chapter’s difficulties will likely be moot, because no Canuck has ever won the award.
And, it appears unlikely that a Canuck will take it home this season.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Kevin Bieksa welcomes NHL's three-on-three overtime plan
Kevin Bieksa peered into his crystal ball Thursday and liked what he saw.
The Vancouver Canucks defenceman has a vision of how things will develop if the NHL adopts three-on-three overtime next season.
“I think it’ll be the two-on-one fest,” said Bieksa.
General managers recommended this week, during meetings in Florida, that the league adopt three-on-three overtime in 2015-16. The plan comes as a result of concerns about the number of shootouts that determine wins and losses.
Bieksa said three-on-three O.T. could lead to many new tactics on the ice.
“It’ll be interesting to see how the strategies develop three-on-three, whether: If you’re the home team and you get last (line) change and the other team puts three forwards on, maybe, you put your three defencemen on against them and then you come back with your three top forwards," he said. "Who knows? There could be a lot of strategies developed."
The GMs' recommendation must still be approved by the competition committee, which includes representatives from the NHL Players Association. There is no guarantee of that happening; however, Bieksa is one player who likes the idea.
“It’ll add to the game," he said. "I think it’ll be more exciting. I think the shootout was brought in not only to decide games, but to bring some excitement to the game, much like a soccer game at the end. I think this will have the same effect."
Some fans who like the shootout might argue that three-on-three overtime won't generate the same moves as the one that Calgary defenceman David Schlemko as he scored the winning goal, in the eight round of the shootout, against the Boston Bruins earlier this month. The inside-out move was reminiscent of the one that Peter Forsberg made on Corey Hirsch as Sweden beat Canada in the 1994 Olympic gold-medal game.
But Bieksa said the shootout has "plateaued" and fallen out of favour.
"It’s a good way to decide the outcome, but a lot of people aren’t the biggest fans of it," he said. "The three-one-three will be another way to decide the game, and it’ll be the new thing – and I think it’ll be entertaining.”
The Vancouver Canucks defenceman has a vision of how things will develop if the NHL adopts three-on-three overtime next season.
“I think it’ll be the two-on-one fest,” said Bieksa.
General managers recommended this week, during meetings in Florida, that the league adopt three-on-three overtime in 2015-16. The plan comes as a result of concerns about the number of shootouts that determine wins and losses.
Bieksa said three-on-three O.T. could lead to many new tactics on the ice.
“It’ll be interesting to see how the strategies develop three-on-three, whether: If you’re the home team and you get last (line) change and the other team puts three forwards on, maybe, you put your three defencemen on against them and then you come back with your three top forwards," he said. "Who knows? There could be a lot of strategies developed."
The GMs' recommendation must still be approved by the competition committee, which includes representatives from the NHL Players Association. There is no guarantee of that happening; however, Bieksa is one player who likes the idea.
“It’ll add to the game," he said. "I think it’ll be more exciting. I think the shootout was brought in not only to decide games, but to bring some excitement to the game, much like a soccer game at the end. I think this will have the same effect."
Some fans who like the shootout might argue that three-on-three overtime won't generate the same moves as the one that Calgary defenceman David Schlemko as he scored the winning goal, in the eight round of the shootout, against the Boston Bruins earlier this month. The inside-out move was reminiscent of the one that Peter Forsberg made on Corey Hirsch as Sweden beat Canada in the 1994 Olympic gold-medal game.
But Bieksa said the shootout has "plateaued" and fallen out of favour.
"It’s a good way to decide the outcome, but a lot of people aren’t the biggest fans of it," he said. "The three-one-three will be another way to decide the game, and it’ll be the new thing – and I think it’ll be entertaining.”
Eddie Lack goes with flow amidst uncertainty about Ryan Miller's return
Eddie Lack has heard the reports, but he’s not paying them much attention.
Reports have indicated that Vancouver Canucks starting goaltender Ryan Miller will not return before the end of the regular season because of a knee injury suffered Feb. 22. That means Lack has a chance to be Vancouver’s starter come playoff time, presuming the Canucks qualify for the post-season.
But Lack is not willing to ponder a scenario which could see him between the pipes during Vancouver’s quest for the Stanley Cup. Instead, he is adopting an existential approach to life in the crease.
“I’m not looking at (Miller’s injury) differently or anything,” he said as the Canucks prepared to play the Columbus Blue Jackets at Rogers Arena. “I’m just trying to do my job every day and just take it game by game here and see where we end up. First of all, we have to make the playoffs, too.”
Lack, 27, who is only in his second full NHL season after three years in the Canucks’ minor-league system, has thrived during Miller’s absence, helping Vancouver hold on to a playoff berth amidst constant pressure from the Calgary Flames and Los Angeles Kings.
The chance of him matching the 41 games he played as a rookie as a result of the Roberto Luongo trade is increasing. But Lack remains unfazed as he works on perfecting his craft.
“I’m feeling good right now,” he said. “It’s just fun playing and coming to the rink every day and just battling and going to war every day with the boys.”
Sometimes the war includes a friendly verbal joust with teammates. Such was the case Thursday as defenceman Kevin Bieksa praised Lack, who is known for his sense of humour and playful nature, while also accusing him of being caught out of position at times.
“On the ice, he’s very mature – not so much off the ice,” said Bieksa. “But on the ice, he seems to be able to stay in the moment, not get too down when a goal is scored against him. He seems to be making the big saves at the right time, and he’s a battler first and foremost.
“He’s not going to like this, but he’s not always in position. But he battles and he throws everything he can to make a save, and he’s stolen a lot of points for his team.”
Lack, of course, disagreed with Bieksa, contending that the opposite is the case and he is usually in position.
Meanwhile, coach Willie Desjardins also refuted the reports that Miller will be out longer than expected.
“I think Ryan’s on track from everything that I’ve heard (from the team’s medical staff),” said Desjardins.
Miller has skated on his own, but not in his gear, as he rehabilitates his knee.
“He was out on the ice and I think he’s on track,” said Desjardins. “The good thing with where we are, we’re happy with the way Eddie’s playing. We don’t have to force (Miller) in or anything. But he’s on track. Nothing’s changed.”
Reports have indicated that Vancouver Canucks starting goaltender Ryan Miller will not return before the end of the regular season because of a knee injury suffered Feb. 22. That means Lack has a chance to be Vancouver’s starter come playoff time, presuming the Canucks qualify for the post-season.
But Lack is not willing to ponder a scenario which could see him between the pipes during Vancouver’s quest for the Stanley Cup. Instead, he is adopting an existential approach to life in the crease.
“I’m not looking at (Miller’s injury) differently or anything,” he said as the Canucks prepared to play the Columbus Blue Jackets at Rogers Arena. “I’m just trying to do my job every day and just take it game by game here and see where we end up. First of all, we have to make the playoffs, too.”
Lack, 27, who is only in his second full NHL season after three years in the Canucks’ minor-league system, has thrived during Miller’s absence, helping Vancouver hold on to a playoff berth amidst constant pressure from the Calgary Flames and Los Angeles Kings.
The chance of him matching the 41 games he played as a rookie as a result of the Roberto Luongo trade is increasing. But Lack remains unfazed as he works on perfecting his craft.
“I’m feeling good right now,” he said. “It’s just fun playing and coming to the rink every day and just battling and going to war every day with the boys.”
Sometimes the war includes a friendly verbal joust with teammates. Such was the case Thursday as defenceman Kevin Bieksa praised Lack, who is known for his sense of humour and playful nature, while also accusing him of being caught out of position at times.
“On the ice, he’s very mature – not so much off the ice,” said Bieksa. “But on the ice, he seems to be able to stay in the moment, not get too down when a goal is scored against him. He seems to be making the big saves at the right time, and he’s a battler first and foremost.
“He’s not going to like this, but he’s not always in position. But he battles and he throws everything he can to make a save, and he’s stolen a lot of points for his team.”
Lack, of course, disagreed with Bieksa, contending that the opposite is the case and he is usually in position.
Meanwhile, coach Willie Desjardins also refuted the reports that Miller will be out longer than expected.
“I think Ryan’s on track from everything that I’ve heard (from the team’s medical staff),” said Desjardins.
Miller has skated on his own, but not in his gear, as he rehabilitates his knee.
“He was out on the ice and I think he’s on track,” said Desjardins. “The good thing with where we are, we’re happy with the way Eddie’s playing. We don’t have to force (Miller) in or anything. But he’s on track. Nothing’s changed.”
Friday, March 13, 2015
Canucks showing signs of improved health
The Vancouver Canucks have endured injuries to key players for several weeks, but they are about to get some reinforcements.
Centre Brad Richardson, winger Chris Higgins and defencemen Kevin Bieksa and Yannick Weber could return for Saturday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
“I can’t confirm that they’ll be in the lineup, but I think they’re real close, and I think we just have to make a choice,” said coach Willie Desjardins. “I don’t think they’re 100 per cent (healthy), but this time of year a lot of guys aren’t 100 per cent. We just have to make a choice on the lineup. At least they’re healthy enough that they’re into that discussion.”
The Canucks are looking to regroup after a 4-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday night. Richardson is especially eager to play after being out since Jan. 16 with a foot and ankle issue that was expected to take much less time to heal. The extended stay in sick bay frustrated both him and Desjardins.
“I tried to play in Tampa,” said Richardson. “It was two weeks later, so I took a break, and I thought I’d be back for sure after that. I just couldn’t. It was really bad and then we had to get it checked some more and it just needed time.”
Richardson will be particularly handy in third-line and penalty-killing roles.
Some soreness lingers, but he will soldier through it as the Canucks, third in the Pacific Division, seek to hold on to a playoff spot with Calgary and Los Angeles applying pressure.
“I’m going to have to fight through it, but it’s pretty good, and it has to be tested in battle and all that kind of stuff,” Richardson said. “But it’s definitely something that’s going to bother me for a little bit. I wouldn’t be coming back if I didn’t think I could. There’s no point coming back if you can’t play your role.”
Bieksa, one of the team’s top defencemen, is on the verge of returning after suffering a broken hand while blocking a shot Jan. 27 against Tampa Bay. His presence will shore up an injury-riddled blue-line corps and lighten the load of Alex Edler and Dan Hamhuis, who have played extended minutes.
“I’m in that range right now for a return and, like I said, I’ve been feeling good the last couple of days,” Bieksa said. “Sometimes it takes just a little push to get over that hump, and I feel like I’m right there.”
The Grimsby, Ont., native is not taking any special meaning from possibly coming back against the team that he grew up watching.
“To be honest, no,” he said. “It doesn’t really matter. It’s nice to play in Toronto. Playing against them outside is not really a big deal for me personally. It’s the time of the year, though, where points are so crucial right now. When you look at the standings, it’s just so tight.
“When you’re out (injured), you get a chance to watch a few more games (involving) other teams.
It doesn’t seem like Calgary is going to lose too many games, or not get a point in too many games, and L.A., obviously, they showed (Thursday) night that they’re going to be a top team down the stretch. So we have to get points every game we can, so I want to help out as much as I can. … I want to be out there helping my teammates. It’s hard to sit back and watch – really hard, actually.”
Higgins is slated to return after missing three games with an undisclosed injury suffered in a practice following a win over Arizona.
“It was just a little (lower-body) strain, so it was nothing too serious,” he said. “I was hoping to get back earlier than that, but the coach gave me three games (off.)”
Higgins will be a candidate for second-line duty when he returns. Weber is close to returning after missing two games.
Higgins hopes the Canucks can show their full potential after missing several players at different times since Christmas. The Smithtown, N.Y., native and his teammates are also anxious to avoid a letdown against a struggling Toronto club that is playing out the string before wide-scale changes in the off-season.
“We can’t afford to have two or three games to get back in the groove,” Higgins said. “Guys that have been out, they need to chip in right away.”
“It doesn’t matter who (the other team) is,” said Richardson. “We just need the win.”
The Canucks have a habit of playing down to lower-level opposition. They have lost to weaker teams like Buffalo and Arizona while needing critical points to improve their post-season chances.
The Leafs shape up as another visiting club that could again steal the show in Vancouver. Richardson warned that they are desperate to win as they fight for jobs and new contracts in advance of next season.
Goaltender Eddie Lack said the Canucks should be wary, based on past performance against also-rans.
“We’ve been playing bad against teams below us in the standings, so we’ve gotta come out with lots of energy (Saturday) and get the crowd with us from the start,” said Lack.
He and captain Henrik Sedin expect the Leafs, who always draw a strong legion of fans clad in blue and white in Vancouver, to give the Canucks a jolt of emotion just by their presence at Rogers Arena.
“It’s always fun when the crowd gets into it,” said Lack. “It’ll probably be a crowd battle or something … in the stands. I was on the bench last year when we played the Leafs, but it was a great atmosphere and a fun game. So, hopefully, we’ll have a similar atmosphere (Saturday).”
Sedin said the Canucks must make sure they get off to a good start.
"The first five minutes, we've gotta come out and show we're not gonna let this one slip away, and not give Toronto any life," he said.
Centre Brad Richardson, winger Chris Higgins and defencemen Kevin Bieksa and Yannick Weber could return for Saturday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
“I can’t confirm that they’ll be in the lineup, but I think they’re real close, and I think we just have to make a choice,” said coach Willie Desjardins. “I don’t think they’re 100 per cent (healthy), but this time of year a lot of guys aren’t 100 per cent. We just have to make a choice on the lineup. At least they’re healthy enough that they’re into that discussion.”
The Canucks are looking to regroup after a 4-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday night. Richardson is especially eager to play after being out since Jan. 16 with a foot and ankle issue that was expected to take much less time to heal. The extended stay in sick bay frustrated both him and Desjardins.
“I tried to play in Tampa,” said Richardson. “It was two weeks later, so I took a break, and I thought I’d be back for sure after that. I just couldn’t. It was really bad and then we had to get it checked some more and it just needed time.”
Richardson will be particularly handy in third-line and penalty-killing roles.
Some soreness lingers, but he will soldier through it as the Canucks, third in the Pacific Division, seek to hold on to a playoff spot with Calgary and Los Angeles applying pressure.
“I’m going to have to fight through it, but it’s pretty good, and it has to be tested in battle and all that kind of stuff,” Richardson said. “But it’s definitely something that’s going to bother me for a little bit. I wouldn’t be coming back if I didn’t think I could. There’s no point coming back if you can’t play your role.”
Bieksa, one of the team’s top defencemen, is on the verge of returning after suffering a broken hand while blocking a shot Jan. 27 against Tampa Bay. His presence will shore up an injury-riddled blue-line corps and lighten the load of Alex Edler and Dan Hamhuis, who have played extended minutes.
“I’m in that range right now for a return and, like I said, I’ve been feeling good the last couple of days,” Bieksa said. “Sometimes it takes just a little push to get over that hump, and I feel like I’m right there.”
The Grimsby, Ont., native is not taking any special meaning from possibly coming back against the team that he grew up watching.
“To be honest, no,” he said. “It doesn’t really matter. It’s nice to play in Toronto. Playing against them outside is not really a big deal for me personally. It’s the time of the year, though, where points are so crucial right now. When you look at the standings, it’s just so tight.
“When you’re out (injured), you get a chance to watch a few more games (involving) other teams.
It doesn’t seem like Calgary is going to lose too many games, or not get a point in too many games, and L.A., obviously, they showed (Thursday) night that they’re going to be a top team down the stretch. So we have to get points every game we can, so I want to help out as much as I can. … I want to be out there helping my teammates. It’s hard to sit back and watch – really hard, actually.”
Higgins is slated to return after missing three games with an undisclosed injury suffered in a practice following a win over Arizona.
“It was just a little (lower-body) strain, so it was nothing too serious,” he said. “I was hoping to get back earlier than that, but the coach gave me three games (off.)”
Higgins will be a candidate for second-line duty when he returns. Weber is close to returning after missing two games.
Higgins hopes the Canucks can show their full potential after missing several players at different times since Christmas. The Smithtown, N.Y., native and his teammates are also anxious to avoid a letdown against a struggling Toronto club that is playing out the string before wide-scale changes in the off-season.
“We can’t afford to have two or three games to get back in the groove,” Higgins said. “Guys that have been out, they need to chip in right away.”
“It doesn’t matter who (the other team) is,” said Richardson. “We just need the win.”
The Canucks have a habit of playing down to lower-level opposition. They have lost to weaker teams like Buffalo and Arizona while needing critical points to improve their post-season chances.
The Leafs shape up as another visiting club that could again steal the show in Vancouver. Richardson warned that they are desperate to win as they fight for jobs and new contracts in advance of next season.
Goaltender Eddie Lack said the Canucks should be wary, based on past performance against also-rans.
“We’ve been playing bad against teams below us in the standings, so we’ve gotta come out with lots of energy (Saturday) and get the crowd with us from the start,” said Lack.
He and captain Henrik Sedin expect the Leafs, who always draw a strong legion of fans clad in blue and white in Vancouver, to give the Canucks a jolt of emotion just by their presence at Rogers Arena.
“It’s always fun when the crowd gets into it,” said Lack. “It’ll probably be a crowd battle or something … in the stands. I was on the bench last year when we played the Leafs, but it was a great atmosphere and a fun game. So, hopefully, we’ll have a similar atmosphere (Saturday).”
Sedin said the Canucks must make sure they get off to a good start.
"The first five minutes, we've gotta come out and show we're not gonna let this one slip away, and not give Toronto any life," he said.
Eddie Lack gets a new backup
The Vancouver Canucks goaltending saga took another interesting twist Friday.
Rarely used backup Jacob Markstrom was dispatched to Utica of the AHL to get in some playing time while Joacim Ericsson was called up. The move puts more of an onus on temporary starter Eddie Lack to play well – and often – during the stretch drive of the NHL regular season.
“We just want to get (Markstrom) in some games, so we’re just going to switch out him and Eriksson,” said coach Willie Desjardins. “We just thought it was best for (Markstrom) to get a couple games, and he’ll be coming back.”
Goaltenders have been the talk of the town in Vancouver on an almost daily basis in recent years. Just the characters have changed.
Markstrom struggled in his lone start with the Canucks on March 3, allowing three goals on four shots before he was pulled in a loss to San Jose. Lack has appeared in 10 straight games since starter Ryan Miller was sidelined with a knee injury Feb. 22 against the New York Islanders.
Ericsson, a 24-year-old Gavle, Sweden native, who signed as a free agent with Vancouver prior to the 2013-14 season, is expected to serve solely as a backup and practice goalie. Lack should continue to start each game, including Saturday’s home contest against the woeful Toronto Maple Leafs, until Markstrom is back from the minors or Miller is healthy enough to play.
Ericsson is up on an emergency basis, and Markstrom will have that status again when he comes back.
The Canucks (38-25-4) are coming off a 4-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings as they fight to hold on to a playoff spot in the ultra-tight Western Conference. Lack is 5-3-1 in his last nine games and 10-9-3 overall with a 2.48 goals-against average. Lack's increasingly heavy workload could see him meet or surpass the 41 games he played last season as a rookie, but he is not worried about fatigue.
“I try to get my reps in at practice and everything like that and not to think too much about the next game or try to serve energy,” he said. “I just try to go as hard, as I can – and that gets me ready.”
Note_Ericsson did not arrive in time for practice Friday, so a Canucks staff member filled in as the second goalie.
Rarely used backup Jacob Markstrom was dispatched to Utica of the AHL to get in some playing time while Joacim Ericsson was called up. The move puts more of an onus on temporary starter Eddie Lack to play well – and often – during the stretch drive of the NHL regular season.
“We just want to get (Markstrom) in some games, so we’re just going to switch out him and Eriksson,” said coach Willie Desjardins. “We just thought it was best for (Markstrom) to get a couple games, and he’ll be coming back.”
Goaltenders have been the talk of the town in Vancouver on an almost daily basis in recent years. Just the characters have changed.
Markstrom struggled in his lone start with the Canucks on March 3, allowing three goals on four shots before he was pulled in a loss to San Jose. Lack has appeared in 10 straight games since starter Ryan Miller was sidelined with a knee injury Feb. 22 against the New York Islanders.
Ericsson, a 24-year-old Gavle, Sweden native, who signed as a free agent with Vancouver prior to the 2013-14 season, is expected to serve solely as a backup and practice goalie. Lack should continue to start each game, including Saturday’s home contest against the woeful Toronto Maple Leafs, until Markstrom is back from the minors or Miller is healthy enough to play.
Ericsson is up on an emergency basis, and Markstrom will have that status again when he comes back.
The Canucks (38-25-4) are coming off a 4-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings as they fight to hold on to a playoff spot in the ultra-tight Western Conference. Lack is 5-3-1 in his last nine games and 10-9-3 overall with a 2.48 goals-against average. Lack's increasingly heavy workload could see him meet or surpass the 41 games he played last season as a rookie, but he is not worried about fatigue.
“I try to get my reps in at practice and everything like that and not to think too much about the next game or try to serve energy,” he said. “I just try to go as hard, as I can – and that gets me ready.”
Note_Ericsson did not arrive in time for practice Friday, so a Canucks staff member filled in as the second goalie.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Eddie Lack welcomes heavy workload
Eddie Lack has a chance to set some new benchmarks this season – and they won’t be pant scuffs which come from sitting as a Vancouver Canucks backup goaltender.
Contrary to early-season expectations, Lack could surpass – and will definitely approach – the 41 games played total that he reached last season as a rookie following Roberto Luongo’s trade to Florida. Lack, who has been excelling lately, could also produce new career bests in goals-against average and save percentage.
He made his 10th consecutive appearance as Vancouver hosted the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday night in a game that had plenty of playoff implications. As far as Lack’s activity level goes, it’s more of the same as the second half of 2013-14 as he fills in for injured starter Ryan Miller. Lack has played in 28 games, including Thursday’s affair, and Vancouver has 15 regular-season games remaining following that contest. But, this season is dramatically different, with the Canucks showing the ability to compete most nights – at least when they’re not slacking off against playoff also-rans like Buffalo and Arizona – and Lack’s enjoyment level is considerably higher than it was a year ago.
“It was still fun last year when I played a lot,” he said. “Obviously, it’s way more fun when you win, and it’s a way better atmosphere in the locker-room when you get the results you want. So, obviously, it’s a lot more fun this year.”
Vancouver coach Willie Desjardins told reporters that Miller, who suffered a knee injury Feb. 22 against the New York Islanders, is still at least two or three weeks away from returning to the lineup. Minor-league call-up Jacob Markstrom struggled in his lone start, March 3, as he allowed three goals on four shots before he was pulled in a loss to San Jose.
Barring a drastic turn of events, Lack will start all but a few games until Miller comes back, presuming he does. But Lack, 27, feels ready for the high workload, which will rarely allow for more than one day of rest between games. Last season showed him how he needed to prepare physically for the upcoming grind.
“I feel like I took care of myself last year, too,” he said. “It’s just a matter of getting energy back and getting everything feeling loose and stuff like that after the game. So it’s not really a day off. It’s more a recovery day, if you know what I mean.”
Last season’s ordeal, when he was battling a back injury but still playing as the Canucks tried to turn a disaster into a respectable finish before missing the playoffs, also prepared him mentally for the difficult task ahead.
“Win or lose, you still have to come to the rink the next day and be the same old Eddie and not be too sad about the day before or too happy,” he said. “I feel that I’m good at putting myself down when I have to and bringing myself up when I have to.”
Although the Canucks have held on to a playoff position for most of the season, there is still no guarantee they will qualify for the post-season as the Kings and Calgary Flames apply considerable pressure.
Time will tell whether Lack can back up his words with action, but there’s no doubt that he will get the opportunity to prove himself often. Miller has been seen limping at Rogers Arena lately, and he faces a severe battle to get back within three weeks. There is about a month to go before the end of the regular season.
So Lack might wind up being the post-season starter – if he can help the Canucks qualify.
Contrary to early-season expectations, Lack could surpass – and will definitely approach – the 41 games played total that he reached last season as a rookie following Roberto Luongo’s trade to Florida. Lack, who has been excelling lately, could also produce new career bests in goals-against average and save percentage.
He made his 10th consecutive appearance as Vancouver hosted the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday night in a game that had plenty of playoff implications. As far as Lack’s activity level goes, it’s more of the same as the second half of 2013-14 as he fills in for injured starter Ryan Miller. Lack has played in 28 games, including Thursday’s affair, and Vancouver has 15 regular-season games remaining following that contest. But, this season is dramatically different, with the Canucks showing the ability to compete most nights – at least when they’re not slacking off against playoff also-rans like Buffalo and Arizona – and Lack’s enjoyment level is considerably higher than it was a year ago.
“It was still fun last year when I played a lot,” he said. “Obviously, it’s way more fun when you win, and it’s a way better atmosphere in the locker-room when you get the results you want. So, obviously, it’s a lot more fun this year.”
Vancouver coach Willie Desjardins told reporters that Miller, who suffered a knee injury Feb. 22 against the New York Islanders, is still at least two or three weeks away from returning to the lineup. Minor-league call-up Jacob Markstrom struggled in his lone start, March 3, as he allowed three goals on four shots before he was pulled in a loss to San Jose.
Barring a drastic turn of events, Lack will start all but a few games until Miller comes back, presuming he does. But Lack, 27, feels ready for the high workload, which will rarely allow for more than one day of rest between games. Last season showed him how he needed to prepare physically for the upcoming grind.
“I feel like I took care of myself last year, too,” he said. “It’s just a matter of getting energy back and getting everything feeling loose and stuff like that after the game. So it’s not really a day off. It’s more a recovery day, if you know what I mean.”
Last season’s ordeal, when he was battling a back injury but still playing as the Canucks tried to turn a disaster into a respectable finish before missing the playoffs, also prepared him mentally for the difficult task ahead.
“Win or lose, you still have to come to the rink the next day and be the same old Eddie and not be too sad about the day before or too happy,” he said. “I feel that I’m good at putting myself down when I have to and bringing myself up when I have to.”
Although the Canucks have held on to a playoff position for most of the season, there is still no guarantee they will qualify for the post-season as the Kings and Calgary Flames apply considerable pressure.
Time will tell whether Lack can back up his words with action, but there’s no doubt that he will get the opportunity to prove himself often. Miller has been seen limping at Rogers Arena lately, and he faces a severe battle to get back within three weeks. There is about a month to go before the end of the regular season.
So Lack might wind up being the post-season starter – if he can help the Canucks qualify.
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