Hey good Hockey News

David Hahn with the cool photo

Well the Canisius Hockey team is playing much better of late. Going 3-2-1 in the new year, mainly led by their hot goaltender Andrew Loewen. Who was just named Atlantic Hockey goalie of the week. Since January First, he has a .99 GAA and a .969 sv%. And the Griffs give up a ton of shots, so he is playing out of his mind this month. He's only a sophomore and his numbers are getting better and better each month.

Maybe I should concentrate on this hockey team then the other one in town. Since these kids seem to give a damn and actually have a goaltender who changes the game. Hey I'm ready to say this right now.

Cut Thibault and sign Andrew Loewen, probably cheaper then T Bone, and probably better. What a sieve Thibault is.

Canisius goes back to normal self

Canisius after a one game respite returned to the normal self, and lost 77-49 to Siena on Monday. Oh they turned the ball over a bunch of times and it led to them losing, wow, what a shock. Its the storyline of the season. Frank Turner led the team in points again with a whopping 15 points. That will always get it done.

Tom Parrotta again uses his words of wisdom to describe this one

"You can't win many games when you turn it over that much," Canisius head coach Tom Parrotta said. "Siena made us pay for turning it over. They scored 23 points off our mistakes. That was the difference."

Mmm, good insight. How about teaching the guys how to handle the ball better and make better decisions? The Griffs tend to turnover it over a lot this year, you think thats a coaching issue? Maybe. I know they are young, but come on they should be better then 3-15.

next up Fairfield on Friday.

Missing since Christmas

You see this above? Its called heart. And the Sabres have been missing it since Christmas. Someone might have taken it or its out injured, but after today's game. I'm not sure if this team has it. Phoenix went into corners, fore checked, played the puck, BLOCKED SHOTS. It was a team that I could actually root for, if they were ever on TV and I knew they existed. Its just like the Sabres don't care anymore. They sometimes show a bit of fight then give up a goal and its pack it in boys on to the next game.

I just want to see a game where they bang constantly, pressure all game long and just work the opponent into making mistakes and just want to quit. I want 60 minutes of hell. Instead of 45 minutes of listless play and 15 minutes of hard work. A team losing doesn't want me not want to be a fan, but playing without heart, doesn't make me want to root for you. Why should I root for a team that shows it doesn't care?

SHOW ME YOU CARE!!!

Sabres Coyotes Preview

Oooo a Mid afternoon game on a holiday, one where I'll be home and have nothing to do. I always enjoy these ones, since they don't seem to interfere with the day, hey maybe a trip to Staples maybe in order for a part of the game. Plus its an opponent we rarely see the Phoenix Coyotes. Its like they are playing an entirely different league. So we'll see how the Sabres react to the loss to Toronto and playing in a very warm city. Being away from the local press, they really can tank it and not hear about it. So warm up those golf clubs boys, they might be in use earlier then you're use to.

So what is up with the Coyotes?

Well the Coyotes are much better then people thought they be at the start of the season, I heard worst team in the league, well I guess getting solid goaltending proved them wrong. They are 6-3-1 in their last 10 games and 11th in the tough Western Conference. They have 50 points on the year, 4 more then Buffalo and 4 more wins then the Sabres do. They aren't a big scoring team only having 125 goals on the season. But don't give up that many goals either. Looks like the Great one, has turned them into a tight checking team to keep them in games. Phoenix seems to play better road games, which tells me they try to entertain the home fans and it costs them wins. So that could be in the Sabres favor today.

Who does what on the Coyotes

Well the Coyotes are all about Shane Doan, who would look good in blue and gold Darcy, he leads the team with 44 points. Then Radim Vrbata? leads the team in goals with 18. Then Ed Jovanovski is third in points with 32 and a horrible -10 rating for their top defenseman. Nice to see Jovo cop still in the league. The rest of the lineup is filled with journeyman and nobodies. The reason for the Coyotes success was the pickup of Ilya Bryzgalov from the Ducks. He has made this team competitive night in night out. He has solid numbers with a 2.39 GAA and .919 sv%. So he'll be tough to get the puck behind, especially for the recently punchless Sabres.

Outlook

Well a day game in Phoenix, against a team they don't care about, and away from home. I smell danger for the Sabres here. Unless they some how show up motivated to win this one, and get their season back on track, I see a continuation of the lost season. The arena will probably be half empty and quiet and the Sabres will roll out thinking they can beat the Coyotes on talent alone. Well they can't. I see a 4-1 Coyotes win today, which is unfortunate because I'll probably be watching.

So the Super Bowl is set

Lawrence! Phoenix is the other way!

I can't believe the Giants are in the Super Bowl. Really I can't I've watched this team and they never impress. Well they did against the Bills, but who doesn't impress against the Bills? But I enjoy that back and forth of the last game, one of those last possession wins it types deals. Man Mr. Tynes got a lot of opportunities to save himself. I don't care about the bad snap, he shanked that one, that one is on him. Lucky he made the one in OT, or he wouldn't make it back to NY. But you knew once the Patriots made it in, they were happy if NY or the Packers made it in. You get all the NY vs Boston stories or Brady vs Favre. Just makes the media drool at the easy stories.

Unfortunately we get two weeks of hype over this game which will neither be good or close. I don't care they played close a couple weeks ago. The second time you play Bill Belichick he owns you. Oh man theres another storyline. Lets look at all the storylines we will see.

Patriots play for perfection
Belichick and the Giants (bad super bowl 25 memories there)
Brady vs (other) Manning
Yankees Vs Red Sox type talk
Junior Seau talk, ugh
More dynasty talk
More hype then I need to pay attention to and I'll ignore it till Super Sunday.

Early prediction

Patriots 31 Giants 17

I forgot about that

While looking for stuff on Espn I came across this story. That the Bills will likely get get okay to play in Toronto. Oh boy I forgot about that. That was a big story a couple months ago, and stirs up all type of emotion. I think it broke out for the Baltimore game and made people upset and now its back. And really they want to put Tampa in the London game next year? Really? Tampa? But who will the Bills play in Toronto next year. I'm all for putting that Patriots game up there. Those are games Bills fans can miss. The Patriots usually roll into town and take the Bills to the woodshed. So take that game up the QEW and I won't have a problem with it.

All I know is I won't be listening to WGR anytime soon to hear about this game in Toronto when all it is, is a cash grab by Ralph Wilson.

One of those years

Ever have one of those years, were things have been going good, and you have great expectations, really not based on anything tangible, but you expect things to go well? Then things just go wrong and they keep going wrong. Yeah its one of those years for the Sabres. The year really should be going better. They have the same team as last year, minus a few key players. But really from best in the league to near the bottom? It shouldn't be like that. They have talent, they have skill, but it just isn't coming together. Friday night was an explosion, and should have moved into Saturday night, but it didn't happen and they expect it to be there, without putting effort in. And thats the problem this year.

Effort and execution.

Last year one of the other would be there and they would win games. They won a lot of games last year when they shouldn't have, and it caught up to them in the playoffs. Its here again this year, but they don't have the talent to get over the missing two parts. Sometimes the effort is there and the execution is missing. And when effort is missing, they can't overcome it and win it in the end anymore. They win 10 to 1 and they think, whew over with, and come out flat. But its like 3 goals we can overcome that. But they can't anymore. Until the players realize, that they have to work every night, every period, every shift, to just beat teams like Toronto. They won't get better or even come close to make the playoffs. Coaches can do all they like, but its up to the individual players.

The Sabres need to sit down, look in a mirror, and see what is wrong with them. The past is gone, the conference championship appearances are long gone. How are they going to succeed with the team they have right now.? Something needs to change for success to come back. I'm not sure its a player or coach change, its a attitude adjustment.

If I were Lindy, I would tell the players Monday would be a brand new season. And no ones spot is safe.

Lets talk about the Playoffs

Well here we are at the conference championships. Which are usually better games then the Super Bowl. But its the last football for 2 weeks until the Super Bowl, then Football is over. Which is rather sad, because I love football. I like hockey, but I can get tired of it quick. But, these games are hyped up and you get 3 hours of action. I thought I write about the games a bit. Since they are important in the sports landscape.

First up Pats Vs Chargers

Well the Patriots continue their quest for destiny and the perfect season. Yesterday getting a haircut there was discussion about hoping the Patriots lose. I don't feel that way, I think seeing a team complete the perfect season, no matter who, even the hated Patriots, is something to root for. Over the years I have come to appreciate Tom Brady for how great and consistent he is. There is something lacking in the NFL these days and its consistent excellent play. I wish he played for the NY Giants or something, but that Sunday game in Buffalo, might have been one of his best performances. It was perfect. So I would expect that today. The chargers I absolutely can't stand. They are filled with jerks and overhyped players. They are walking into trap and they are going to get absolutely blown out by a team who had its toughest challenge last week in Jacksonville. We can say good night and Lights out for the Chargers today.

Next Packers Giants

Well I know its gonna be cold, its cold here. But I really haven't seen why the Packers are so good this year. Is because the competition isn't that good? Is Brett Favre magically better this year for some reason? Is Ryan Grant a real answer at running back? I have no clue. They just manage to win games. Their defense is rather good, so that helps. But the Giants defense is rather good too. Thats why in a cold nasty weather game, I don't expect that many points. I see one of those 13-10 slugfests, that comes to a last second kick. I feel the packers will prevail, because I don't trust Eli Manning. They won in Buffalo despite him, and its all about defense and running the football. But should be one of those classic bad weather games that will replay on the NFL network for 2 weeks on loop.

Well enjoy the games we ain't got much football left.

Sabres Leafs Preview

Well tonight should be an interesting game. Two teams battling for the bottom of the Northeast Division. Both teams are struggling of late, the Sabres just off a 10 game winless streak and the Leafs are 3-7 in the last 10. But with 2 wins in a row after 5 straight losses. Its a hockey night in Canada game and I always feel the sabres struggle in those contests. But its the leafs and the Sabres have been playing the leafs well the past few years. Though are 1-1 against the boys from Toronto this year.

So whats with the Leafs?

The leafs are struggling again this year, which seems to be commonplace of late. Sitting only 3 points out of the basement of the Eastern Conference, and only ahead of 2 other teams point wise in the entire league. The leafs struggle to keep the puck out of their own net giving up 155 goals on the year. They are also terrible on the power play and the penalty kill sitting 26th in the league in both. The Sabres are 13th in the league on the power playwhich seems better then it should be. Looks John Ferguson is in trouble again in Toronto. And the Leafs want to bring in Cliff Fletcher to take the hardest job in hockey. But with the Payroll the Leafs can have, not making the playoffs really isn't an option. They are the Yankees of the NHL, except without all the championships. But the fan bases? Very similar.

Who does what on the Leafs

It starts and ends with the Captain Mats Sundin. He leads the team in goals, points and plus/minus. He really is playing out on a island. A true great stuck in a good hockey city, playing on terrible teams. He needs to be shipped out just out of respect. Mats has 20 goals and 51 points on the year. And a +10 which shows he isn't struggling on the back end. Other offensive weapons on the leafs are Nik Antropov with 37 points not a total bust, Kaberle with 30 from the defensive side and Jason Blake who I thought would be a good free agent only has 8 goals. McCabe, Wellwood and Tucker are all having disappointing seasons. In net probably Vesa Toskala who is having an alright year with a 2.71 GAA and a .906 GAA. Andrew Raycroft is a disaster and I hope hes in net tonight.

Outlook

Well the Sabres broke out of a losing and scoring drought last night. Who knows if they feel, whew thats over with, and come out and lay an egg. But I doubt that will happen. Its a game in Toronto with lots of people watching. Last thing they want is friends and family watch them suck. I'm not calling for a win, because it seems I have no idea what will ever happen, but I can see them rolling again tonight. Confidence when gone is dangerous, but when confidence comes back its just as dangerous, to other teams.

They did what?

I wrapped myself in the hockey and forgot about the Griffs game last night, accepting the fate that Charron Fisher would torch them for 50 points and run the Griffs right out of Koessler. So I watched a blowout in joy, and saw the local news about the outcome of the Griffs game. And went wahhhhhh? They won? How, did they tie Fisher to Churchill Tower?

I guess it was a night for the good guys to snap streaks, first the Sabres then the Griffs breaking a 9 game losing streak to the Purple Eagles. One that dates back to my Senior year at Canisius. Thats a long time ago. Well it looks like everyone showed up at once and Charron Fisher, just like the weather, went frigid. Frank Turner, Bob Bevilacqua, Willie Hassell and Vazquez Simmons all scored in double digits. Mr. Bevilacqua came out of nowhere and was carried off the court like a hero. This guy barely got garbage time in the West Virginia game. I guess Coach Parrotta was like what the fuck we're throwing everyone out there and see what happens, can't hurt right? And it paid off.

This brings the Griffs to a horrible 3-14, but this is the season highlight right here. They beat Niagara at home. Thats all it takes. You beat Niagara, you're season is made. Its one of the reasons Mike Mcdonald got fired. He couldn't beat Niagara.

They won on Brian Dux night, fitting.

Thats a way to break a streak

Well thats one way to snap a 10 game skid, by blowing out a division leader 10 to 1. The goals came quick and they came easy. With Hedberg unable to stop a beach ball in the first period, getting pulled 10 minutes in, to only come back to finish the game, to have the red light scorch his back again. In the end he gave up 7 goals on the night. The united Roy Vanek and Stafford line combined for 12 points, and 7 of the 10 goals. Roy coming back really helped this team on the offensive side, but only giving up 1 goal, a breakaway goal and limiting shots, it showed the Sabres still keep defense in mind. Defense is what will help the team win. Even keeping the hot Kovalchuk off the score sheet.

This may have been exactly what the doctor ordered before a 7 game trip, just to get everything off their backs and go concentrate on playing hockey. A good road trip and they crawl themselves into a playoff spot. They got the bad stuff out of the way in mid part of the season and it hasn't derailed their playoff hopes. 3 points out. Thats it, 3 points after losing 1o games in a row barely out of the playoffs. Now is the time to make a move. This team has the experience, it just has to believe in itself.

Sabres Thrashers Preview

Here we go again, the Sabres trying to break the streak of winlessness now at 10 games. This must just suck in the locker room. Guys going man we're better then this right? RIGHT? Playing right now must not be fun what so ever. I know we get these huge checks, but it ain't worth it now man. Holy crap its cold, we're losing and we can't score. People are making fun of us right now. (This is what I think they think about) But all that can change with a big game tonight one of those 8-1 wins that just shake everyone out of the doldrums and with the Sabres going on the road for 7 straight games a win is must needed or things could get real bad. If things aren't bad already.

Whats going on with the Thrashers

Well the Thrashers since the New year have gone 4-2-2 so basically 500, but had a huge 5-1 win over the Red Wings at Joe Lewis on Tuesday and are coming off a 3-2 shootout loss to Montreal yesterday, so the Thrashers could be tired and not at full strength tonight. And coming off the plane from Atlanta into todays weather doesn't make those aches and pains any better. On the year Atlanta is 3rd in the conference and leading the Southeast, but Carolina who is 1 point back and in 1oth place in the conference. So the winner of the Southeast makes the playoffs 2nd place does not. Not the best division in hockey right now. Plus Atlanta gives up WAY more goals then they score, standing at a -18 goal differential compared to Buffalo's -1.

Who does what for the Thrashers

Well it all ends and starts with the two all starts Kovalchuk and Hossa. Two big weapons for the Thrashers. Ilya is having a big year already with 37 goals and 63 points, yet still a -7. Hossa a big back but has 20 goals and 43 points. Todd White (30) Eric Perrin (28) and Tobias Enstrom(28) are lagging behind the others, but still offensive threats. Defense isn't a top priority for Atlanta but old pal Alexei Zhitnik is still a Thrasher, which is too bad for him. Looks like Lehtonen is in net tonight and having a alright year, looks like he is getting shelled nightly though. A high 2.86 GAA but a decent .913 sv%.

Outlook

Well the Sabres are running into a tired team, playing their third game in 4 nights. Roy is back in the lineup tonight but Connolloy, Spacek and Max are not. What no Peters? Ohhhh, thats too bad. More Kaleta and MacArthur. Thats what I need. I've been expecting some offense for a while, but why should I expect it now. But I'll be watching the game at Staples, so if you would like to join me come on by its on Allen across from Nietzsche's. I'll be a little mopey though since the girlfriend is going away for a week. But its fun times.

10 game winless Streak

So the Sabres haven't won since the Flyers back to back games. Wasn't that the end of a 6 game winning streak. How can you go from winning and scoring goals to basically, just can't score and couldn't win if you're life depended on it? How does that happen. Was their new years resolution to lose more? Things are so bad on the Sabres website they go the NHL statistician to qualify it a "winless" streak. And with how bad things are, a good January and a great February, probably puts them in a playoff spot. Which brings up the question do you want them to make the playoffs? Just to get beat by New Jersey or Ottawa right away. But here at GCFB would like to offer suggestions how to break the cycle.

1) Anyone who scores a hat trick gets free Tim Hortons for the rest of the year.
2) Anyone who scores in the shootout, gets dinner at the Chophouse
3) Anyone who scores a Game winning goal gets to be captain right away, sorry Spacek.
4) Andrew Peters gets cut.
5) Anyone who complains about that is suspended immediately

And if the streak reaches 15 Lindy Ruff is fired no questions asked

People scream for trades or Darcy to do something. Do what and trade who? Campbell why? They trade Campbell the season is over right then and there. They have to make a move to show they are serious about winning this year. Make a big splash shake things up. Trade someone for someone. Obviously things aren't good at HSBC Arena.

I know what will get these guys going, take them to Lasertron. That will improve morale and get them in good spirits. And no cheaping out, Pizza and coke afterwards and 10 free tokens. I'm sure they'd rattle off 5 wins after that.

Sabres Rangers Preview

The Sabres head into MSG to ward off the Double digit winless streak against the also slumping NY Rangers. Who spent money and are losing. Mmm money doesn't always buy success? Mmm you'd think another NY team would influence the Rangers. Its always about talent and chemistry. You can have the best food ingredients in the world but if they don't mix well, you got a crappy dish. Well anyway its a battle of teams wanting to get back on track, the Rangers are 3 points ahead of the Sabres, but have played 3 more games.

Whats going on in NY?

Well things aren't going thats the problem with the Rangers. They are last in the Atlantic and tenth the conference and have only won 1 game since the beginning of the new year. They have some goal scoring issues and some defensive woes and if it weren't for Lundqvist they'd probably be even worse. This team is paid a lot and not playing up to that standard, especially with the talent and veteran leadership the Rangers have. The team probably needs a major shakeup and that shakeup is the exodus of one Jaromir Jagr.

Who does what?

Well Scott Gomez is trying to justify his contract by leading the team in points with 42, mostly in assists though with 32. Jagr is always dangerous or the potential to be dangerous and he comes in second with 40 points. And Chris Drury is in third with 31 points but only 12 goals, plus hes a -12 on the year, so hes against the best lines and not shutting them down. And Brendan Shanahan is right behind with 30 points, and the leading goal scorer with 15 goals on the year. But the man is the Goalie, King Henrik. His numbers have fallen a bit lately, but still a marvelous 2.39 GAA and a decent .906 Sv%. Martin Straka is also another one to look out for.

Outlook

Well who knows where this is going, you'd expect the Sabres to show something, but can't put the puck in to save their lives, and going again Lundqvist doesn't help things. But they have had a couple days off, and maybe the Brian Campbell thing got their minds off the winless streak. Mmm a distraction from on ice performance, for a contract issue. Thats a interesting tactic Brian. Well I probably won't see this one, yeah I know too bad.

The LQ reacts to Brian Campbell waiting for Free Agency

.

(The LQ enters his office and starts sifting through the Buffalo News. And stops dead on the front of the sports page.)


LQ: WHAT! Brian Campbell is cutting off negotiations? Who in the hell does he think he is? No one stops talking to the LQ until the LQ wants to stop talking to him. DORIS GET ME CAMPBELL!!!

Doris: I think hes at practice sir

LQ: Practice for what? Sucking? They haven't won since before Christmas. That looks bad for the LQ.

Doris: Well I'm sure after practice he'll have time.

LQ: Probably not, he probably has some dumb commercial to film. Look at him, what a yahoo. Hey why isn't the LQ all over the TV, I'm a handsome guy. Who wouldn't want to buy the product the LQ endorses.

Doris: I like Brian, he's always nice to me

LQ: Shutup Doris no one cares what you think, this "team player" is trying to extort money from us! Doesn't he know we have a budget around here and no one player is above that system. We WANT TO BE THE PATRIOTS OF THE NHL. You know create a uniform no one really likes, win often, then let our stars walk when they are paid too much money. We have a system.

Doris: Um the Patriots win Superbowls

LQ: DORIS! How many times have I told you not interrupt the LQ when he's on a roll!

Doris: Sorry sir

LQ: You'll be if we have to pay this red headed clown. We'll probably have to lay off staff. Or outsource stuff to India. Mr Golisano didn't become a Billionaire by overpaying people.

Doris: We'll I think it would be a good sign for the rest of the players and free agents that you would pay top dollar for guys.

LQ: Doris you.just.don't.get.it Thats not what we are about. The Sabres are about extracting as much possible while paying the least we can. Why do you think you work 50 hours for no pay?

Doris: Well Um, why do I work here again?

LQ: People just can't leave the LQ.

Doris: Brian Campbell does

LQ: DORIS!!!!!!!

The Three Headed Monster

These three men will lead the Bills to almost make the playoffs.

Well as many may know by now the Bills have called up three guys in the organization to basically do the GM job. With Russ Brandon is the head of day to day operations. And Tom Modrak and John Guy go from Directors of College Scouting and Pro Personnel to Vice presidents of college scouting and Pro Personnel. Man all those business cards down the drain, for a minor title change. I hope they don't have to pay for their own, I might just use some white out and type over it. No one would notice.

I guess its smart to promote from within. Tom Modrak has done quite the job, John Guy must have called a hundred people last year to be on this team and Russ Brandon, um Look at that Smile! Who couldn't promote that man, hes HANDSOME! But seriously the most important hire is left to come. Thats Offensive Coordinator, I always felt that people jumped to Turk Schoenert to quick. He's been around a while and no one hired him as a OC yet? That tells me something, that he might not want it or have it in him. Thats why an outside force maybe good. Because why would anyone want the same offense as last year. That is a pitiful terrible offense and should be thrown in the lake.

Well heres to another off season where people bitch and moan about the signings or lack there of and then go they drafted WHO? They don't need a Quarterback! (oops I guess they did last year) Well this should be an interesting offseason.

The Griffs drop another one

Well another day another Canisius loss. Its getting really embarrassing this year. They are losing some bad games. On Sunday they dropped a squeaker to Iona, 72-44. This drops the Griffs to 2-14 on the year. And really were at a point where they are getting blown out by MAAC opponents. I hope Tom Parrotta knows what hes doing, because this year is a complete disaster. I guess you have to give a mid major coach a couple years to get his players in and start the system. But these guys aren't competing at all. Frank Turner led the team with 12 points and the team had 23 turnovers on the day. Which is totally unacceptable. Also getting out rebounded 45 to 29, is also a bad thing.

Hey Fun with Tom Parrotta quotes!

“We played a very good team in here today,” Canisius head coach Tom Parrotta said. “That was a very good team that we competed against, but they had answers for what we threw at them. We played hard, but we are not at the point where we can compete for a full 40 minutes.”

What? Its mid January and you're not ready to play a full 40 minutes? Thats something I wouldn't admit. Coach Parrotta, just get through things and you won't have to worry about it anymore. Don't even get hotel rooms for the MAAC Tourney.

Oh boy Niagara on Friday! Maybe Charron Fisher can hang 50 on the Griffs.

Bills update

So what have our beloved Buffalo Bills been up to since they lost to end the season and go home early once again.

Well Marv retired, again.

The former answer at QB wants to be traded. Hey maybe a real nice house on Oakland Place will be up on the market.

And the Bills fans see Malcolm Kelly as the hot prospect for the Draft. Big, quick and productive could be the perfect receiver the Bills need to put next to Evans.

Then Jim Mcnally called it a career. I guess he saw the line improve and was like my work is done. Good day. But coach? I SAID GOOD DAY!

But its less then 2 months to Free Agency. Now thats quite exciting. The Bills need to hook up a GM, do a bit of smart selective shopping then get the rest at the draft. This team should move forward from last year, with the QB and a RB and a decent O line. Really have to shore up that defense.

Actually the team needs a ton of work, good luck to the new GM to make them better.

Lack of previews

Yeah keep these two up please.

Hi there, usually I do a game preview before most hockey games. But lately I haven't due to, 1) I'm too busy or 2) they play the same teams over and over and I'm tired of seeing the same information and its worthless to recap it. But come Wednesday they play the rangers and it will be fun to preview them, since I haven't done it yet this season and it will nice to see different players. Enough with the Devils and Senators, I'm tired of them, move on already. Plus they are mired in a 8 game winless streak, I won't call it losing, since a shootout isn't technically a loss, so there the sabres are 0-4-4 during the past 8 games.

Another trend over the last 8 games, 12 goals. Thats right this once powerful offensive juggernaut is struggling to put the puck in the net, not from the lack of effort, but its a team wide epidemic. I'm guessing since I've listened to more Sabre Hockey of late then seen it. I'm at points where I'm like who is 4 again? IS that Mike Wilson out there? Ohhh Nolan Pratt. But I like what I hear from Patrick Kaleta. Some guy that justs runs around like a Hanson brother and bangs. More of Kaleta he's cheaper then Peters and a Buffalo kid its a no brainer Sabre Management. Keep Up Kaleta and Macarthur.

A Canisius Update

I've been slacking in my update of Canisius College Athletics which I feel ashamed of. Well not really since its depressing most times. But here we go with a summary of the past week or so of action.

Mens Basketball

The Men are back to their losing ways with a pair of losses on the road first on Friday to St Peters 65 to 54. Where Pawel Malesa was the leading scorer with 11 points. Seriously the Polish Rifle shouldn't be leading the team in points. Hes basically a DH. He hits big shots and doesn't play defense. Then headed to Rider, where they got Bronced, 102-51. Holy crap losing by 51 to Rider is totally unacceptable THEY ARE 9 and 6! Even with 51 points Elton Frazier scored 22 points. Maybe adopting the Ole defense is a bad strategy.

Griffs are now 2-12 on the year and 0-4 in the MAAC

Womens Basketball

Now a team that can win a few games. Well since the start of the New Year the ladies have gone 1-1 with a win over Rhode Island and a loss to Siena. I'm sorry for not updating more on the ladies, they do show some talent and defense and the ability to win the occasional game. Its a two horse race to be the leading scorer with Russell leading Cavo by 12 points on the year. Both will score in the 300 range. The ladies will make a home stand starting this thursday with Fairfield, then Iona on Saturday and the Double header against Niagara next Friday.

Hockey

Unlike another hockey team in town, this team can't lose and haven't since 12/1/2007. Of course they 5 games and tied 3 of them. But hey they haven't lost in over a month. Good for you guys. With a big win over Niagara mixed in and a Win over Bentley last Saturday. This recent stroke of decent play has brought them to 5-10-5 and are 4-0-1 at home. Which is a good sign, because once you step into the Buffalo State Sports Arena you are Griff food. Anyway. The Griffs play a weekend match with UConn at the Pepsi Center. Check em out. Its fun hockey.

Till next time.

So a 7 game losing streak?

Well the losing streak as reached 7 now. Well in the old days it would be called a 7 game winless streak, since there would be 3 ties. But still the problem is easy to point to. Lack of timely scoring. Or any scoring. Sure Jason Pominville tied it up late but still lost in the shootout. Weren't they great in the shootout last year? Whatever, I missed the majority of the game since I was on a 2 month anniversary dinner date.

I would offer suggestions or trade ideas or whatever but guess what? I don't know anything so it would be pointless for me to try offer any helpful advice. I barely watch the games these days. The winter classic was the last game I watched full through. I'm usually driving or with the Girlfriend. So guys keep your heads up. Your a good 2 weeks from being in a playoff spot.

But the best part of losing streaks, lower demand for tickets, meaning cheaper prices for ebay or replay. Meaning I might go to another game sometime. I love going to Sabre games win or lose. And I've been to two this year and both losses. Who cares I want more hockey!

Sabres Devils Preview

Well here we are again with the Devils and in a couple days they'll play again, seriously who made this schedule? Who wants the devils 3 times in like 2 weeks? Thats punishment. Thank god its 60 degrees outside, or I would feel like I did something wrong. But the Sabres are looking to end their losing streak at 6. Are a bit banged up, with Macarthur and Kaleta in the lineup tonight. Well thats not the worse thing in the world, young hungry players are what the Sabres need. We tend to forget that many of the current Sabres are really young too. But been around awhile. But who knows how things will play out tonight.

Whats going on with the Devils?

Well since playing last on the 28th the Devils are 2-2 and 2nd in the conference and only 1 point ahead of the Penguins for the lead of the Atlantic. The Pens are surging ahead since the Winter Classic. The Devils are doing it the Devils way, not giving up chances and scoring on the ones they get. Same old boring hockey. But its effective. Many fans will take boring and winning, over exciting and losing. Or in the in the Sabres case, boring and losing.

Who does what?

Well Zach Parise is still the leading scorer with 38 points, followed by Brian Gionta with 28 points and Elias and Madden both have 23 points on the year. As you can tell the Devils don't light up the jumbotron. Only 3 players have double digit goals. And only 5 guys are about 20 points. Compared to the Sabres with 8 players with 20 or more points. The man here is Marty Brodeur who is still great and bringing it for the Devils. The man is one of the best ever and is the key to the Devils success even at age 35. Though he seems older since he has been around forever. Oh hes been playing regulary since the 93-94 season. Good god. And two years later started 77 games! Workhorse they name is Brodeur.

Outlook

Ehh, doesn't look good for the boys in blue and gold. January could get reallllly ugly if they don't start picking it up and playing like they can. Darcy might have to make a move just to save the season. But we'll see.

A Night at the Roller Derby

The Queen City Roller Girls had their first bout of the season on Saturday. You may go wait, Buffalo has a roller derby team? Yes we have a 3 team league with a 4th team in the works. This was the beginning of the 2nd season. I became aware of this league because a friend of mine was on the Nickel City Knockouts, I have even have a team shirt to show my support. They had several bouts last winter and early spring and I attended most of them, and actually became a fan. So thought why not go to this one.

Well me and the Girlfriend, who to my surprise was happy to attend this and excited. I always think people will look at you weird and go no, I'm not going to that. But we headed up to North Tonawanda to the Rainbow Rink on Oliver st. Which is a good size for this event.

The place would quickly fill up

We took our seats in the endzone area, where I think theres a good view of everything. Should have closer if I knew how many people would show up. I honestly didn't want a girl diving into me. I have a girlfriend and shes the only lady that can fall into my lap. So we waited for the bout to start.

They are giving a couch away at every bout


The teams come out together to warm up


It gets dark in there and hard to take pictures.


The Jammers take their place waiting for the whistle

The crowd at the event was really into it, many not knowing whats going on, like the guys behind me who kept asking about the rules, but were really into it. It was a close hard bout for the first two periods. With the Devil Dollies taking the early lead, but the Knockouts finding the right jammers and closing the gap and taking the lead. Red Fox and Tuesday Hula were skating very well to keep for the Dollies in the match. While it took a while for Dewey Decimator and SuperNova to really get going. The longer the match went, the tighter it got and more the crowd got into it. Official timeouts and an injury slowed things down a bit. But gave time for people to get more beer. The beer probably helped things.

The knockouts coach going over strategy in how not to lose.

The best part of the bout was watching my girlfriend get into it, and remark if she were an undergrad she would totally own this rink. Knowing her competitiveness and how shes athletic there is no doubt she would. I'm super happy she enjoyed herself, because I would love to take her again. Well the during the third, Sweets, who is a dirty player, got tossed out for shoving Tuesday Hula in the crowd. But it didn't stop the Knockouts from building a lead. They held a 16 point lead going into the last 2 minutes, where Red Fox decided to kick ass and take names and cut the lead to 3 points.

The jammers line up for the last jam of the night.

Where the Dollies lined up Her Ass Her and the Knockouts came out with Sissy Sparkles. Where I went to myself, mmm, game over Knockouts. As expected Sissy Sparkles held on to the lead and the knockouts won their first bout ever. (Went 0-4 last year) It was a great bout, close, hard fought, plenty of great hits and skating. The crowd was huge and probably made a ton of new derby fans. Really its a good time on a Saturday night.

Next bout February 2nd the "Mardi Brawl" Tickets $10 in advance $15 at the door.

Hey There Readers!!!!!

Sorry I haven't written as much of late, you see I've been busy at work, and at home. Well actually I am never home of late. You see I am at my girlfriends a lot, and she doesn't have the internet, and it would be probably quite rude to be writing posts while at her house. The holidays and new years meant a lot of time away from the computer and a lot of time not writing entries. Which maybe a good thing. Since it keeps it fresh. Plus I don't have to write about the Sabres or even watch them much. Hey I missed the Atlanta game, damn, what a shame.

I'm sure with me being home a little big more, work calming down a little, and just other stuff to write about, you can come here for daily reads. Though the weekends will be pretty slow. Once again at the girlfriends, because its nice there and I enjoy my time with her. I may or may not want to buy her internet and cancel it at my place. It would seem like a better investment for myself and for her. Because the internet at home is rarely getting used. Poor computer so lonely.

Anywho, look forward to new stuff!

The saddest part of the new Bill Parcells era

Thats right with Bill Parcells cleaning house, it meant Mike Mularkey was out of a job again. This time fired from being Tight Ends coach of the Dolphins. Well he was demoted from OC, last year taking a big step back from being a head coach several years prior. But with Mularkey in South Florida, the Bills have enjoyed a renewed dominance over the Fish. His genius led the dolphins to terrible records two years in a row, and now hes looking for work and I don't know who would hire him. Can you name the Tight Ends in Miami? No? Didn't think so. And his offense game plan wasn't great last year either. Give the ball to Ronnie Brown, done, go home. Plus he was run out of town in Buffalo.

Well Mike, thanks for everything you did in helping the Dolphins become a laughingstock, it wouldn't have happened without you. You made up for that Steelers disaster from 2004 where you couldn't game plan against backups, sure one of those backups turned out to be Willie Parker. But still the Bills should have wont that game and made the Playoffs. But instead choke city.

Good luck Mike, maybe there is a high school job out there for you.

Sabres Sen Preview

Hey look its the Senators again, oh joy! Everytime the Sabres seemed to be either at a good point or a bad point, the Senators are there. Here we are after the Winter Classic and a regular game against the Sens, just seems to be a let down. But it is also crucial for the Sabres to win tonight. Losers of their last 4 a win tonight would help them get back up in the standings, though its early and really a hot February and March would cement a playoff spot. But they can't play lazy now. But with new line combos who knows whats gonna go on.

Whats been going on since they last met?

Well Ottawa has gone 1-2 since beating the Sabres on Boxing day, and losing to Washington Twice? What? Who loses to Washington twice in a row. Especially allowing 14 goals in two games. I guess the Sens were a little too fat from Christmas. So I'm guessing the Sens are gonna come out guns a blazing to get that bad taste out of their mouths. While the Sabres have posted wanted posters for their missing offense. Scoring 2 goals in their last 3 games.

What to watch for tonight.

Well Martin Gerber has played like Swiss Cheese lately, meaning everyones favorite fighting goaltender might start, but probably not. Ryan Miller will start, since T Bone, sucks hardcore and I wouldn't start him against the Amerks, let alone the Sens. The shot blocking master Anton Volchenkov will return tonight from a finger issue. So thats not good for the Sabres. The Sens looking to tighten up on defense and the Sabres lacking scoring punch. Drew Stafford is back in the lineup after getting knocked out of the last game against Ottawa, but Max is out with a groin issue.

Outlook

Not sure how this one is gonna go, but could be a interesting game with two teams looking to get back on track. I would expect it to be physical and tight. But not picking a winner tonight. Ill be at the bar for this one. See you there.

I didn't want to do this but I had to.

I hate to drag this up again, but that uniform right there. Is sweet. They looked so good yesterday, especially later on when I saw it in HD. If there is somehow they can wear the old whites more often I'd be a happy camper. I don't like the old blues. Especially with the new pants combo they had last year. But they have to do the old thing. Like Paul is wearing above. I know they are working on something for next year. But please bring back the old whites. They can junk the old blues. Hell wear white at home and the new whites on the road. White uniforms are generally better in Hockey anyway, in my opinion. This doesn't have to do with the logo. But the whole look.

I forgot how nice the old homes were, I thought they should stay at the Aud. But I was wrong, its time to bring them HSBC on a more regular basis.

Spacek Captain for the New Year

photo by Bill Wippert

Yes this man, Jaroslav Spacek, was named captain for the month. I pushed for Jochen, and Jaro a "A" but Jaro has been the best defensemen all year for the Sabres. So it is well deserved and when he donned the eye black for the Winter Classic, I knew they made the right choice. Hes been the only real physical force on the blue line all year, and if he timed things right on that Sidney Crosby bounce the puck play, he would have sent him ass over tea kettle. Making the top brass in New York and Toronto, all stop breathing for a second. Hes the guy they signed last year, and now is really looking like a bargin at what they got him at. Great on the power play, physical, some health issues, but consistent.

What made him Captain?

When he laid out Danny Briere.

Canisius gets another one

Well now the Griffs have 2 wins on the year and it happened before the New Year. I can only saying beating Maine at home is a good thing? Maine was 4-7 so they beat a couple people this year. But my guess being in Buffalo for New Years Eve, wasn't going over well. But they are from Maine, so who knows. Looks like the Griffs took a lead and held on. Usually they build a lead and blow it. That was the team I grew to love and hate. So maybe there is a turnaround going on at the Koessler Athletic Center. Uhhh, probably not. But every win is big for this young team. This team is really 2 years away from making any serious conference tourney run.

Well who helped them win, well Frank Turner was the leading scorer with 18 points and had 5 assists. Willie Hassel, somehow shot very well going 7 for 9 and put in 16 points and Vazquez Simmons some how got 15 points. Once again the Griffs have to shoot about 45% to win a game. They don't have the talent to recover from poor shooting. Well at least the dream of a winless season is long gone, and now its just a pathetic season from a young team.

Next up St Peters on Friday and Rider on Sunday, both on the road.

Next home game 1/11 against Manhattan.

The Winter Classic

Now that picture sums it up, I think.

I enjoyed the game on a snowy reception TV at the girlfriends house, which ironically is the way it should be enjoyed. I recorded on the DVR in HD. So I can check that out later. But I think the game looked neat, the game itself wasn't pretty, but many January games aren't. That Buffalo New Jersey game wasn't pretty and they didn't have to skate through snow and sleet. The Sabres picked up a point and are 0-2-2 in their last 4. But who cares this was great for everyone. Should they do this more often, ehhhh, maybe. But you could do this game once a year in Buffalo and it would sell out every time. Imagine if the Sabres got used this condition and created a home field advantage. It would be a interesting way to spice things up.

People complain about all the Sidney Crosby love, but who cares, thats what leagues do and play up their stars. He is very marketable and he is also very talented. Ryan Miller is turning into a very marketable player. Especially with that Amp Energy Drink ad, which was great and kinda came out of nowhere.



You're mama ween. Thats a good one.

Anyway, my eyes a success for the NHL. The Sabres, ehh, gotta put the puck in the net.