Dallas: This Season's Phoenix?

(Image unashamedly stolen from Puck Daddy)

Going into the 2009-2010 NHL season, the Phoenix Coyotes were picked by most prognosticators to finish dead last in the Western Conference. Off-ice issues - namely, the never-ending ownership/relocation saga - were considered insurmountable distractions for the team. The only thing the Coyotes had to look forward to was a high first-round draft pick in June of 2010...or so virtually everyone thought.

A funny thing happened on the way to the 2010 NHL Entry Draft: Phoenix defied all expectations, posting a 50-25-7 record, good for fourth in the Western Conference. Though they bowed out in the Conference Quarter-Finals, the fact that they made it into the Stanley Cup Playoffs at all was remarkable.

Are the Dallas Stars the 2010-2011 version of the Coyotes? Similarities do exist:

The Stars are currently for sale by Tom Hicks' lenders (Phoenix is currently for sale by Gary Bettman).
They've missed the playoffs in each of the last two seasons (Phoenix missed the playoffs six consecutive seasons prior to last spring).
Preseason expectations for the Stars were very low (Ditto Phoenix last season).

Unlike the Coyotes, the Stars don't face the threat of relocation. These teams share one more commonality, however: Like last season's Coyotes, the Stars are going to the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

As of Game 30, the Dallas Stars are Chasing Stanley, according to the On Goal Analysis Super-Lucky No MSG Added Playoff Qualifying Curve (PQC). Last season, the PQC was correct for 90% of the NHL, and the Stars show no indication of falling into the other 10%.

Why the Stars are going to make the playoffs

As a wise man said back in September, the Stars needed to cut their Goals Against dramatically this season. Dallas' GAA for the 2009-2010 season was 2.98 (23rd in the NHL). Through Game 30 this season, the Stars' GAA is 2.67 (12th). Dallas is allowing virtually the same number of Shots on Goal this season (31.0) as last (31.2), so improved goaltending has been key. Kari Lehtonen has been solid, and backup Andrew Raycroft has been a pleasant surprise.

At the other end of the rink, the Stars are scoring only slightly less than last season (2.73 Goals/Game now vs. 2.80 G/Gm then), and the top line of Loui Eriksson-Brad Richards-James Neal (combined: 90GP, 37-53-90, +28)is one of the best trios in the NHL. Having a second legitimate scoring line is essential for success, and the Stars are extremely fortunate to have Brenden Morrow-Mike Ribiero-Jamie Benn (87GP, 21-37-58, -6) coming over the boards.

The Stars also benefit from good health (Lehtonen's current back problems notwithstanding), as ten skaters have played all thirty games, while five more have missed three or fewer contests. This could change in one shift on the ice, but for now, it's very good news for Dallas.

After a two-year drought, I'm looking forward to seeing Stanley Cup Playoff hockey in Dallas again. Come April, I guess I'll have to go to the bank (backyard) and make a withdrawal (dig up the mason jar marked, "Playoff Ticket Money"). I can't wait.


Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

The NHL Weekend Roadie: West Coast Stargazing

Another week, another NHL Weekend Roadie. If you don't already have plans for the second weekend in November, well...you do now. As with all OGA-approved roadies, it’s guaranteed good, featuring two games between divisional rivals and a bonus game between a Cup contender and a talented young team on the rise. If that’s not enough entertainment for one weekend, you can also go to Disneyland. Intrigued? Read on:

The itinerary:

NHL Week Six (Thursday, 11 NOV – Saturday, 13 NOV)

Thursday, 11 NOV: Dallas @ Los Angeles – The last time these teams met, the Stars were embarrassed, 5-2, on home ice. They’ll be looking to return the favor on their first West Coast trip of the season, and they’ve got the firepower to do it. This is a contract year for Dallas pivot Brad Richards, and his stats (10GP, 3-11-14, +7) indicate his desire for a raise. Wings James Neal, Loui Eriksson and Brenden Morrow lead the Stars with 5, 5 and 6 goals, respectively…The Kings, led by Justin Williams’ 5-6-11, +5 in 11 games, are no slouches, either, and currently sit atop the Western Conference with a record of 8-3-0. Expect a hard-hitting game with plenty of scoring on this night.

Friday, 12 NOV: Dallas @ Anaheim – The last time these teams met, the Stars were embarrassed, 5-2, on home ice. Does that sentence sound familiar? Well, that’s exactly what happened. Dallas will be looking for revenge for the second night in a row. The fatigued Stars should start backup goalie Andrew Raycroft against the Ducks, as well as a player or two who were scratched Thursday night. One of those fresh players will undoubtedly be enforcer/winger Krys Barch. The Stars and Ducks, division rivalry aside, really do not like each other. If Barch doesn’t drop gloves with George Parros, I’ll eat my fedora.

Saturday, 13 NOV: NY Islanders @ Los Angeles – Head back to the Staples Center Saturday night to catch the Islanders – Kings game. The Isles, led by 2nd-year centerman John Tavares, are currently battling injuries to a couple of key players (Mark Streit and Kyle Okposo), but have enough individual talent to make for an entertaining game (and a solid win for the home team, if they stay focused). Besides, the boys from Long Island count one of the toughest players in the NHL among their number: Zenon Konopka. Konopka’s 265 PIMs led the league in 2009-10, and he’s currently on pace for 373 this season. Hey – if your first name was “Zenon”, you’d fight a lot, too.

As with last weeks’ trip, this is three games in three nights in two arenas. The difference is the short driving distance between games, which allows for more free time during the day. Live it up – go to Disneyland during the day and watch exciting NHL games at night. Does life get any better? Okay, maybe if there was an NHL team in Las Vegas…

HOTELS – As always, the OGA Boys recommend Hotwire.com for your accommodations. As always, we anxiously await a check from Hotwire for our weekly plugs. For the weekend in question, a room in a three-star establishment within 4 miles of the Staples Center may currently be had for $84/night, while 3.5 stars within 4 miles of the Honda Center (and Disneyland) are listed at $66/night. Where you stay depends on your choice of extrapuckular activities, so plan carefully.

FLIGHTS – The OGA Boys suggest an early morning flight on Thursday, so you have plenty of time to check into your hotel and catch a pregame nap, even if your flight is delayed. Remember: you gain time flying west, but lose it going back east. Plan accordingly.

FOOD – The tremendous number and variety of restaurants in the greater Los Angeles area can be overwhelming. To help narrow it down, we recommend roadfood.com and flavortownusa.com – you can’t go wrong with either one. Two tips: First, if you go to the Nickel Diner for breakfast, don’t miss the Maple Bacon Donut. Second, none may claim to be a fan of the French Dip without making the pilgrimage to Philippe’s, the (alleged) birthplace of the bread, beef and au jus masterpiece. If thoughts of maple bacon donuts and French Dips don’t put a rumbly in your tumbly, you’re on your own.

TICKETS – A decent selection of seats remain for the Stars-Kings game, but they’re selling fast. If you can’t find what you like through Ticketmaster, try either the Kings TicketExchange or StubHub.com. Plenty of good seats are available for Islanders-Kings. The Stars-Ducks contest Friday night is far from sold out, though premium seats near the benches or penalty boxes will have to be purchased through TicketExchange or StubHub.

GETTING AROUND – If you don’t want to drive around El Lay, well, we understand completely. While some driving can’t be avoided, you can take Metrolink rail to both the Staples Center and Honda Center. If you take the train to the two Kings games and buy your tickets at the arena box office, show your Metrolink ticket stub and get a 10% discount on your game ducat (NOTE: The OGA Boys strongly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance for the Stars-Kings game, as it will most likely sell out).

This might just be the most relaxing NHL Weekend Roadie yet: Two games between division rivals, a third game between the Kings and the up-and-coming Islanders, and you can stay in the same hotel for the duration of the trip. Great hockey and a great time, guaranteed.

DO NOT MISS the next installment of The NHL Weekend Roadie, as we send you on an NHL odyssey which will push your Significant Other to the limits of his/her endurance! Wanna test the strength of your relationship? Just tell your S.O. you’re seriously considering taking this road trip.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

Shakin' Things Up in Columbus and Dallas

The Columbus Dispatch is reporting defenseman Mike Commodore is a healthy scratch for tonight's home opener against Chicago. Unlike last season, Commie's conditioning is not the issue; this time, it's his mobility (or lack thereof). Just two years ago, Commodore was the lynchpin of (former) coach Ken Hitchcock's defense, averaging 22:54 of ice time a night. Through the first two games of the Scott Arniel era, the blueliner saw his ice time cut to just 13:40, and he'll spend this evening in the press box.

The message seems to be clear: Mike Commodore is not a good fit for Arniel's system. Unfortunately, he also owns Columbus' third-highest cap hit this season ($3.75mil), as well as the next two. The combination of "fit and hit" instantly makes Commie trade bait, and the fact that he can still play should give the Blue Jackets good value in return.

IN DALLAS, alleged Swedish phenom Fabian Brunnstrom was waived today. Brunnstrom scored a hat trick in his NHL debut...and it was all downhill from there. A left-handed shot on a team full of lefties, Brunnstrom simply couldn't crack the Stars' top six, and couldn't adapt to the NHL game while sitting in the press box. This season, he's making $675k, and he'll be an RFA next June. For such a small investment, it's hard to imagine an offensively-challenged team not taking a flyer on the Swede.


Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

The NHL Weekend Roadie: Newark State of Mind

Folks, I know it’s the first week in August. It’s hotter than fried hell across the southern half of the northern hemisphere. NHL training camps won’t open for another month. What does this mean? It means that it’s time for the first installment of The NHL Weekend Roadie – OGA’s recommended road trip o’ the week.

We’re kicking off this weekly series now because we recognize the need to plan ahead for these trips: flights must be arranged, hotel reservations made, game tickets purchased, rental cars…rented, etc. We’ll give you some tips for the above necessities, but the primary purpose of The NHL Weekend Roadie is to point you towards a potentially fantastic hockey-related road trip for every weekend of the regular season. For each roadie, we’ll do our best to stick to the following criteria:

1. Minimum of two games.

2. Only one round-trip plane ticket needed (in other words, no flights from one game to the next).

3. Maximum of five days on the road (weekend included), because people who can afford to take these trips have a finite number of vacation days.

With those rules in mind, let’s get on with it:

NHL Opening Weekend (Friday, 8 OCT – Monday, 11 OCT)

As the title of this post indicates, the theme for the inaugural NHL Weekend Roadie is (with apologies to Billy Joel) Newark State of Mind. Your itinerary is as follows:

Friday, 8 OCT: Dallas @ New Jersey – Season opener for both clubs. Surely, Ilya Kovalchuk’s contract fiasco will be resolved by then. Regardless, the first game for the post-Modano, post-Turco (and post-Lehtinen?) Stars should be interesting.

Saturday, 9 OCT: Dallas @ NY Islanders – Actually, with the easier travel back east, you have about four game options for Saturday, but this is the only one which will allow you to get back to your hotel before about 4:00am. Besides, Nassau Coliseum may be a dump, but it’s an historic dump which won’t be around forever. Also, A) the arena food is above average, and B) great seats are still available…and will be, even on game day.

Sunday, 10 OCT: Sightseeing in New York – No games today, so go get a pie at Lombardi’s. Make the pilgrimage to Ground Zero and St. Paul’s Chapel. Do. Not. Miss. The NHL Store. Cap your day with a pint (or three) of Smiling Pumpkin Ale at the Empire State Building’s Heartland Brewery. Get to bed early, because tomorrow’s a big day.

Monday, 11 OCT: The Daily Double!! – Monday is Columbus Day, which means you have a rare opportunity: Pittsburgh visits New Jersey in a matinee game (1:00pm) and Colorado is at Philadelphia in the evening (7:00pm). Thanks to Amtrak, you can watch two NHL games in person, in their entirety, in one glorious day! We OGA boys did the Daily Double two years ago, watching Buffalo hammer the Isles in the afternoon, then taking the train back to Penn Station and reaching our seats at Madison Square Garden just in time for the Devils-Rangers lovefest. ‘Twas an unforgettable day.

In addition to an awesome experience, you’ll gain instant Hardcore Hockey Fan Street Cred by catching four NHL games in three days, in three different arenas. Don't let this opportunity pass you by! Start making your reservations today. A few tips for your trip:

HOTEL – I recommend using Hotwire. As I type this, they have a 3.5-star hotel in the Newark airport area for a reasonable (compared to NYC) $89/night. Prices change quickly and often, so book at your own risk.

FLIGHTS – If you’re going to fly in on Friday, book an early morning flight – they should be cheaper than flights later in the day, plus you need to give yourself a healthy time cushion between your scheduled arrival time and game time. If you do the Daily Double, plan on flying home Tuesday morning.

GAME TICKETS – Individual game tickets aren’t on sale yet, so you’ll have to check the team websites for more info. If a game is sold out, check the TicketExchange on each team’s website for seats from season ticket holders.

GETTING AROUND – If you ever have the chance to drive around the greater New York City area, pass. Take public transportation. Check out the Amtrak, NJTransit, PATH, MTA and LIRR sites for schedules, pricing and maps.

There you have it: the first NHL Weekend Roadie. Got any favorite places to eat or drink in Newark? Post it in the Comments. Any important info I left out? Post it in the Comments. Got a better idea for an Opening Weekend roadie? You get the idea.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

"One MO Year!" for the Greatest American Hero

There are plenty of tributes upon the interwebs today regarding what may potentially be Mike Modano's last home game in a Stars sweater.

Hockey gods forbid.

So I won't go into detail about what he has meant to all American hockey players or to the city of Dallas and his contributions locally. Nice round-ups of the like can be found on the Defending Big D blog here.

However, in the event the gentleman truly is done and hangs up the skates (after ending his career playing in the North Stars' former home, Minnesota versus the Wild as a fitting, but bitter, salute IMO) and perhaps moves on to hockey ops or management or spends much of his time on the green, I want to be there tonight. And I will.

I attended the first Stars home game in 1993 and was able to watch Mikey MO on many occasions throughout the years. I went to the parade after the Stars won the Cup in 1999 and saw Mike lift 'er up for the crowd.

By being there tonight, I hope to shout 'Thank you' just loud enough to penetrate the collective psyche of the barn. I'll be kicking it upper deck, but I think it will make a difference. At least for me.

And if the fans in the upper bowl feel so inclined, I hope they follow me in my mantra we have been promoting on JabberHockey this second half of the season:

"ONE MO YEAR"

And I see Mike Modano's mom is on board with our plea, as well as stated in her interview with ESPN.

"I'm hoping for one more year," Karen Modano said. "I know once that's over with, we won't get center ice anymore and won't be watching as many games."

I'm with you, mom. One MO year.

And when my 4-year old son scores a goal in the kitchen, he never takes credit. He shouts, 'Modano scores!' Thanks, Mike for all the incredible memories and your contributions to the success of hockey in the state of Texas.

You are a great American hero.

All similarities in appearance are eerily coincidental but perhaps, unknowingly, prophetic. We draw no conclusions but rather invite you to hum the theme song below in the comments. Don't act like you don't know it. You are humming it now, aren't you?

take me back to ongoalanalysis.com

Return of Hump Day Hockey Thoughts

Between getting married and watching my day job "...catch the last train for the coast", I've been a bit distracted for the past few weeks. Lack of regular paycheck aside, I must say it's good to be able to focus on hockey again. I can't think of a better way to climb back into the saddle than to discuss the odds & ends which caught my eye recently, so here goes:

With his shootout-winning goal late last night, Colorado's Matt Duchene merely confirmed what we OGA boys have known since last October: The Avalanche are IN the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Did anybody see this coming back in September? Did anyone in the Avs organization see this coming? Surely not this year, but maybe after their core group of talented kids had a season or two under their belts. While a number of factors are responsible for Colorado's success, my nominee for team MVP is goalie Craig Anderson. Talk about making the most of an opportunity: Anderson's GAA (2.64) and Save pct. (.916) aren't stellar, but they're quite good for a career backup who, prior to 2009-10, hadn't played more than 31 games in a season. After 70 appearances, Anderson leads all NHL goalies in Shots Against (2200), Saves (2016) and...Penalty Minutes(?!?) (16). While my October launch of an "Anderson for Vezina" campaign proved premature, the follicularly-challenged netminder has been worth every penny for Colorado...

After ringing up four straight wins, it looks like the Chicago Blackhawks are starting to get the hang of playing without Brian Campbell on the blueline. With injuries to Campbell, Brent Seabrook and Kim Johnsson, the 'Hawks have struggled since returning from the Olympic break...and so have the San Jose Sharks: both teams are 9-7-2 since March 2nd. Currently, the Sharks lead the Blackhawks by two points in the standings, but Chicago has a game in hand. Unlike most seasons, when the top teams spend the last week or two of the regular season merely trying to stay healthy for the playoffs, both of these clubs have plenty of motivation to win their remaining games, as there's a good chance the no.2 seed in the West will have to play Detroit in the first round...and nobody wants to play Detroit...

My hometown team, the Dallas Stars, won't be selling any playoff tickets again this season, so let's discuss their uniforms, instead: Blatant marketing ploy or abject stupidity? You be the judge:

According to Icethetics - THE source for all things jersey-related - the Stars will swap their road and third jerseys for the 2010-11 season. Thus, the "new" road jersey will be white, with "DALLAS" across the chest. The "new" third jersey will also be white, but will feature the Stars logo on the chest. I'm fine with that change, BUT...I expect the next change to be the unveiling of a NEW home jersey, which will be a black version of the "new" third jersey, replacing the current home jersey, which is black and says "DALLAS" across the chest. Now, I have nothing solid on which to base this theory, but it only makes sense: WHY would you splash a city name across the chest of your home jersey? Do your fans not know where they live? From Day One, I wondered if the Stars' "DALLAS" home jersey was a very expensive design error. Now, I suspect it was actually part of a cynical marketing strategy designed with the knowledge that fans would buy the new home jersey, no matter how stupid it looked, and then shell out more money for the "new and improved" home jersey a couple of years later. Unfortunately, this strategy will undoubtedly work, as the "DALLAS" home jerseys are simply asinine. Right now, I don't know if I'm more angry at the Stars organization for (possibly) taking advantage of their loyal fans, or at myself, because I know I'll be first in line for one of the "new and improved" home jerseys.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

The Trade Deadline Rubik's Cube

I can’t help it: I love the NHL trade deadline and all its’ attendant shenanigans. The trade deadline is like a Rubik’s Cube (the link is for all you whippersnappers who don’t know what that is), as every move made affects moves on the other side of the cube (or league). Trying to figure out “…IF Trade A goes down, then how does that change Trade B?” can easily occupy most of your waking hours. Case in point: Yours Truly. The trade of oft-injured Atlanta goalie Kari Lehtonen to Dallas for prospect d-man Ivan Vishnevsky and a 4th round draft pick has set my mind a-spinnin’. Allow me to share a little stream-of-consciousness trade thought with you:

1. Lehtonen’s arrival in Dallas must signal Marty Turco’s departure. Who wants a goalie? Chicago and Philadelphia, that’s who.

2. Dallas needs a puck-moving defenseman to quarterback the PP. Vishnevsky was supposed to fit the bill, so why would the Stars trade him...UNLESS they thought they could get a puck-moving d-man for Turco?

3. If Chicago wants Turco, methinks it will cost them one Cam Barker…

4. …OR one Brian Campbell. This works for Chicago, as they need to shed salary before next season, but they have to get a defenseman back from Dallas in addition to Turco (Trevor Daley or Matt Niskanen would be my guess).

5. If Chicago gets Turco, they must unload Cristobal Huet…to Philadelphia.

6. Who would Chicago want from the Flyers? Braydon Coburn and draft picks? Matt Carle?

7. Now that Atlanta has stocked their blueline with Enstrom, Bogosian, Oduya, Kubina (assuming he re-signs with the Thrashers), Valabik and now Vishnevsky, could one puck-moving defenseman (Enstrom or Bogosian, or even Vishnevsky) be dealt to Columbus for Nikita Filatov, thus giving the Blue Jackets the offensive d-man they so desperately need and the Thrashers their next non-backchecking Russian superstar?

8. …OR could Filatov go to Los Angeles in exchange for Jack Johnson?

See how easy it is to cross the line from sound reasoning to wild speculation? And that, my friends, is how trade rumors are born.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

More Hump Day Hockey Thoughts

This frozen Wednesday morning, I'm sipping my coffee and ruminating on several hockey topics...

First, another Game-Winning Save update: At our last update, the score was Posts 5, Teams 0. Well, score one for the Teams: Tuesday, 24 NOV, Columbus @ Montreal. Blue Jackets lead, 3-2, going into the 3rd. At 2:18 of the 3rd, Roman Hamrlik beats Mathieu Garon with a slap shot from the top of the slot but rings it off the crossbar. Garon can't find the puck, and Glen Metropolit saunters in and pokes home the rebound to tie the game. Montreal goes on to win, 5-3, and the Game-Winning Save theory fails to hold up for the first time (thanks for that, Columbus...I'll deal with you in tomorrow's post).

On the flip side, Saturday, 5 DEC, Chicago @ Pittsburgh. With the Blackhawks leading, 1-0, Mark Letestu takes aim at the post 5:45 into the 3rd period. The post passes the test-u, and the Penguins' fate is sealed. Though Jordan Staal scores late in the period to force overtime, Kris Versteeg wins it for the 'Hawks. With that, the score is now Game-Winning Save Theory 6, Post-Hitting Teams 1. As always, stay tuned for updates...

Anyone else stay up late to watch Dallas @ Anaheim last night? Through two periods, the Stars absolutely dominated the Ducks. Thanks to a late-2nd period breakway goal by Joffrey Lupul, Anaheim only faced a 3-1 deficit to start the 3rd. For reasons which shall forever remain a mystery, Dallas entered the final frame determined to...let Anaheim do whatever the hell they wanted to do with the puck. Only after Dan Sexton scored his second goal of the period (at 18:58 of the 3rd) to tie the game did Dallas decide that, perhaps, they should consider attempting to wrest momentum away from the Anaheim steamroller. Of course, it was far too late to push that snowball back up the hill, and Saku Koivu delivered the coup de grace at 4:13 of OT, handing the Stars a much-deserved loss. Shots on Goal in the 3rd period and OT combined: Anaheim 21, Dallas 4. I can honestly say that I've never seen such a rotten 3rd period performance from a team which had been OUTSTANDING through the first two periods. Truly, it was like watching Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde on ice. In the 3rd period, Dallas - from the coach to the goalie, and everyone in between - was fatally stupid. Darwin Award-candidate stupid. I don't know any other way to describe it. I wasn't even at the game, but as a Stars Season Ticket Holder, I want my money back.

Last, but not least...Check out the boxscore of last night's Flyers-Islanders game. The goals were scored by (in order): Richards, Richards, Carter, Carter, Tavares, Tavares, Giroux, Giroux. No, there's no typo - I checked. Has that ever happened before? I'm just asking, because I really don't know. I know I haven't seen that in the almost 30 years I've been watching hockey.

And with that, my coffee is gone and so am I. Tune in tomorrow for a look at the Columbus Blue Jackets at Game 30.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

Brett Hull Night in Big D

Just a quick note to say I'll be at the Dallas Stars - St. Louis Blues game tonight, Tweeting from the (not-so) cheap seats. It's Brett Hull Night, so I'll be wearing my trusty Hull #22 sweater (my son says it's "Vintage", but it's not THAT old, right? Right?). Also, James Neal returns from suspension to help the Stars as they try to pin another road loss on Saint Loo. It won't be easy: the Blues are 3-1-3 away from the Scottrade Center.

And with that, I'm out the door...


Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

Odds, Ends, and FREE TICKETS - by Big Tex

A few odds, ends and random hockey thoughts going into the weekend:

ANOTHER GAME-WINNING SAVE: Tuesday night, NYR @ VAN. With the Canucks leading, 1-0, early in the 3rd, Ales Kotalik rings a slapper from the point off the post during a four minute Rangers power play. Chris Higgins gets his first of the year (FINALLY!) roughly a minute later, but it doesn’t matter: Vancouver wins, 4-1. That makes THREE Game-Winning Saves so far this season. It’ll be interesting to see how long the theory holds up…

DURING THE RANGERS' STINKFEST IN VANCOUVER, rookie call-up Dane Byers racked up 29 Penalty Minutes in the 3rd period. That's a good start for the kid, but he's no Randy Holt.

OFFICIALS 1, STARS 0 (OT): Wednesday night in Dallas…in Overtime…Stars’ d-man Nicklas Grossman is sent to the sin bin for chipping the puck over the glass from OUTside his own blueline. Last time anyone checked, that wasn’t a Delay of Game penalty. Refs win, but donate the “W” to Calgary in recognition of Jerome Iginla’s goal on the ensuing PP.

BIG TEX @ VANCOUVER @ DALLAS: Yes, I’ll be at the game tonight, Tweeting away on all things tweet-worthy. Follow along by following me @OGAs_BigTex

WITH ALL THE INJURIES to big-name players right now, why is it that there are still fantasy hockey leagues in which the likes of Rich Peverley and Ales Kotalik are free agents?

SPEAKING OF RICH PEVERLEY…Though I’d picked Thursday nights’ San Jose @ Detroit tilt as my Game 2 Watch for the week, I found myself caught up in the Blue Jackets – Thrashers game instead. I was left with the following impressions from the exciting, back-and-forth affair: Uppermost in my mind, these two clubs can no longer be dismissed as “expansion teams”, as they’ve both formed (if not fully formed) identities now. Atlanta is FAST and has a power play which is both exciting and lethal, even without Kovalchuk. In Columbus, Ken Hitchcock continues to preach defensive responsibility, but is beginning to embrace the offensive aspects of the game as the Blue Jackets’ skill level increases (among other things, this means that the ‘Jackets PP has improved dramatically since last season). I expect both clubs to challenge for playoff berths this season, and at least one of them to make it in.

LAST, BUT NOT LEAST: FREE TICKETS! It seems I’ve won two tickets to the Detroit @ Columbus game next Wednesday, 11 NOV. Unfortunately, I cannot justify spending over $500 on a plane ticket to attend the game, so I’m offering the tickets to the first BLUE JACKETS fan to Tweet or email me at matt@ongoalanalysis.com (Detroiters need not apply).

Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

Monday, Monday: Day 49 of the Lockout

The NHL steps back onto the ice tonight after a rare day off, playing three games. Of the three contests, the most compelling (in my not-really-all-that-humble opinion) is San Jose's rare visit to Madison Square Garden. The New York Rangers are red-hot, having tied the best record through eight games in franchise history (7-1-0). San Jose's play has been a bit uneven in the early going (as evidenced by their 4-3-1 record), but Dany Heatley (5G, 5A, +3) has been en fuego. The Rangers, of course, have an answer for Heatley in Marian Gaborik (6G, 6A, +8). Coming into tonight's game, both teams are undefeated when scoring first, so...unless this game is scoreless going into a shootout, that stat is going to change for one team. This is the game to watch tonight, provided you don't have DirecTV (like me, dammit). If you do have DirecTV, this is Day 49 of the Lockout, and you'll have to look to the other two games of the night for your hockey fix:

Los Angeles @ Dallas (8:30pm EST): The Kings' wheels-off road show comes to Dallas. This is the final game of a six-game road trip for Los Angeles, and they've lost the last three. Dallas, meanwhile, is 1-1-1 at home and 0-1-1 when Big Tex is in attendance, so expect the Stars to take full advantage of my absence tonight and kick the Kings while they're down.

Vancouver @ Edmonton (9:00pm EST): The injury-depleted Canucks (3-4-0) limp into Edmonton for an intra-Canada skirmish. The Oilers (4-2-1) are reaping the benefits of a rejuvenated Dustin Penner (5G, 4A, +5) (Honorable Mention: Mike Comrie (3G, 3A, +4) ), while the Canucks enter the game with 50% fewer Sedins than normal. Team Captain Roberto Luongo will have to stand tall in the crease if Vancouver hopes to earn a point (or two) tonight.

This looks to be a big week across the league, as On Goal Analysis could POTENTIALLY call as many as FOURTEEN TEAMS either IN or OUT of the Stanley Cup Playoffs by Sunday, 25 Oct. That's right: the fates of almost half the NHL could be decided this week. How do we know what we know? Check out 'The Tao of OGA' for an explanation, and our 2008-09 Report Card to see our results.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

Seeing Stars...and Panthers

That's right, kids: Big Tex is going to the AAC tonight for some Stars-Panthers preseason hijinks (hijinks is Finnish for "hockey", right?). I'll be Tweeting from the game, so feel free to follow along (@OGAs_BigTex). If you're too lazy to follow me, I have it on good authority that my partners in crime back at OGA headquarters will be Re-Tweeting me, as well (@ongoalanalysis). Who knows? I might even tweet something worth reading.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis.

OGA SPR: The Dallas Stars - by Frozen Pill

This is On Goal Analysis' 2009/10 Season Preview Report (SPR) for the Dallas Stars - the 10th installment of our daily previews leading to the start of the new season!

Fantasy Players - be sure to read the Frozen Pill's Fantasy Dose at the conclusion of the post.

The DALLAS STARS as Measured against the OGA Playoff Qualifying Curve (PQC)

Last Season VS the PQC: On Goal Analysis called the Dallas Stars 'Tee Time' (OUT of the playoffs) at Game 73 on March 21st, 2009. The Stars' play was erratic last season, to be polite. Since the conclusion 08/09 season, the Stars players and organization have been very open about their disappointment of team play, cohesion and performance. We will discuss a few of the off-season moves made to change this course in the SUMMER SPLASH section (below) but it should be noted, for all the bad taste left in Stars fans' mouth-guards last season, the team actually flirted with 4 of the 5 of OGA's PQC Status Spectrum designations during the course of their tumultuous season.

By Game 20, they were on the tipping point of OGA having to call them out of the playoffs. But a bit of a resurrection in play (adjustments to key injuries) and goalie Marty Turco valiantly trying to find his happy place on the ice had the Stars pull even with the PQC by Game 30 and then 1.5 points above the Curve by Game 50.

But once the descent began again, there was no recovering and OGA was in the position to call the Stars at 'Tee Time' just short of their mathematical elimination as their trending on the Curve proved to bear out the uncharacteristic season and the Stars finished at a mere 4.15 on the PQC.

Post-Lockout Average VS the PQC: Last season was the 'average-killer' for the Stars as their average performance as measured against the PQC took a hit when missing the playoffs for the first time since the lockout and only the third time since the team relocated in Texas in 1993. While their average still measures respectable (4.988), they can be expected to perform above their average this year for two main reasons. First, they have something to prove to themselves, their fans and the new management in town. Secondly, the never-ending swath of injuries to key players last season actually gave some of the younger players in the system a chance to come in and fill the gaps.

This Stars team will be deeper and have more in-house competition for ice time. But the Stars will need to come out of the gate much stronger than they have the previous three seasons. In 2005-06, they improved their winning percentage between the 10-game and 20-game marks. Since then, however, every season has seen a major drop in production during this ten-game period. If the Stars' fate is to be different this season, this crucial period will be an indicator. And of course, OGA will be watching.

SUMMER SPLASH

• The Dallas Stars made big changes to the organization this summer after last season's experiments with the co-GMs and Sean Avery. Tom Hicks, the owner, replaced the GM leadership by bringing in the 1999 Stars Stanley Cup MVP, Joe Nieuwendyk. Nieuwy then fired Dave Tippett and replaced him with coach Marc Crawford. The effect of this change to team chemistry and play is something all fans and players are anxious to witness.
• Most of the changes to the team this off-season, were in fact, in the team offices and the bench. In addition to Dave Tippett, the Stars have also replaced both assistants on the bench by promoting former player-favorite, Stu Barnes (who assisted from the booth last season) and by hiring former Edmonton assistant, Charlie Huddy who will bring a more offensive-minded style to the Stars defense. This will be the first time the Stars will experiment with such an idea since locating here in 1993 under the tutelage of multi-Selke winning, Bob Gainey.
• Major impact players who are no longer with the organization include Brendan Morrison who only played a handful of games with the Stars but could have been a nice addition to this 're-birth' year if not lost to free agency when he signed with Washington. The hardest loss for Stars' fans to absorb is Sergei Zubov to the Russian KHL league. Stars fans have had it good watching this man QB the Power Play for year after year. But the fans also had a chance to get used to a new-look defense without Zubie as much of his previous two seasons were lost to injury.
• Additions to the team are defensive-oriented. A new backup to challenge and help rest Marty Turco was brought in with the signing of veteran Alex Auld. Karlis Skrastins and Jeff Woywitka were signed to add grit to the blue line. Mysteriously, the Stars signed free agent Warren Peters (LW) from Calgary. Mysterious, because the Stars are already so heavily-loaded on the left side...
• Tom Hicks (owner) has been in the news with some financial issues over the summer, making a few Stars fans wonder about the future of their team. But Hicks is committed to winning with the Dallas Stars and has even sold his stake in the Texas Rangers (MLB) in order to address the financial issues and focus on the Product on Ice. This is good for Stars fans as Hicks has been willing to let his management take risks to produce titles - and knows when to step in for a shake-up, too.
• A huge factor that should play into a revitalized organization is the inaugural year of the Texas Stars - the newest AHL team housed north of Austin in Cedar Park, TX. Last season, the Stars prospects were (homeless) spread around multiple minor leagues. Now, the additional cast members are 3 hours (speed-limit) south of the American Airlines Center.
  

THE FANTASY DOSE

The Sure Thing: Mike Ribeiro (C) and/or Brendan Morrow (LW). A 'two-fer', if you will on The Sure Thing... Ribeiro because he has been stellar since joing the Stars from Montreal three seasons ago. He led the team in points (78) last season and is getting more responsibilities on the team. Morrow because the spark-plug Captain is the heart and soul of this team and is very anxious to get back on his ship. He only played in 18 games last season, but was playing at almost a point-per-game when injury ended his season. But he is healthy and rehabbed and you can bet will be anxious to take advantage of the new offensive minded-systems being established in Dallas.

TrustyRusty: Brad Richards (C). Last season was supposed to be Brad Richards true debut with the Dallas Stars after having only been acquired at the trade deadline in 2007/08. But injuries made it so Richards only played in 56 games last season. And here's where you can tell the Stars were not at their peak last season - in 56 games Richards ended third in scoring for the Stars with 48 points. He is healthy and has been working out since the Stars finished play last regular season. Expect some big numbers from his this year as the 'acclamation' period is truly over.

Up and Coming: Loui Eriksson (LW). By now, even hockey fans who barely pay attention to Dallas know who Loui Eriksson is. If they still don't, they will notice him as they browse player stats while trying to setup their ultimate fantasy teams. Loui, in his sophomore year, not only finished second on the team in scoring but led the team in plus/minus finishing a very respectable plus-14. The plus/minus stat was not favorable to the Stars last season and his closest teammates were at plus-10 (Stephane Robidas-D) and plus-5 (Landon Wilson who only played in 27 games). Eriksson played in all 82 games last season and will look to better his 36 goals scored in last year's campaign. Get to know Loui before your league's competitors do.

Under the Radar: Steve Ott (LW). Ott is under the radar because many refuse to think of Ott as a points producer and prefer to focus on his PIMs. But last seasons point totals may prove to be less of a fluke and more of a player-progression. It may be Ott has discovered his hands are quite capable for many uses and having played much of last season with a broken hand, unable to fight, Ott found some scoring when the gloves stayed on. Ott finished fifth on the team with 46 points and while bookending the broken hand, led the team in PIMs at 135. His confidence and health are at a prime and don't you be surprised to see Steve Ott surprise even more analysts this season.

The Watchful Eye: James Neal (LW). Neal enters his sophomore season after having a phenomenal debut in his first season with 37 points (24 goals) and placing sixth on the roster in scoring - so we'll have to see if Neal is prone to a sophomore slump or more greatness (like Eriksson last season) if paired on the right line. Although, the Watchful Eye is normally gazing towards the minors, the Stars' best chance of a call-up or a surprise at camp is defenseman Ivan Vishnevskiy. The second rated prospect is Jamie Benn who tore up the WHL last season (42 goals, 23 assists in 53 games) but the Stars hope to have him play a full season in the AHL this season and continue to improve his skating and defensive play. So, watch Benn - but keep a closer eye on Neal if he's available as a free agent during the season.

The Crease: Marty Turco. Last year was an anomaly for the steady net minder. Turco has taken his licks in the press for last season's performance but with Alexander Auld having been brought in for backup/competition purposes, Turco will be anxious to prove last year was a fluke and he is still the face in net of the Dallas Stars - an elite goalie with an unconventional style. Should you take him for your fantasy game? I predict those who take the gamble and draft/sign Turco will be rewarded this season. Just don't expect him to play every night (unless ridiculously hot) as new management has tagged his many starts as an issue - meaning, Turco gets no time to sit on the bench and mull what could have been (or rest or practice certain aspects of his game) and this has contributed to his softening in net. In fact, Turco almost made the Frozen Pill's 'Mad Scientist' player choice for the 'gamble' factor. But that honor is reserved for one of America's greatest...

Mad Scientist: Mike Modano (C). Depending upon the value/salary your fantasy game applies to Modano, this may just be a great 'sneaker' pick for you. Most are going to assume his fantasy value is down significantly since his game the previous few seasons has been more focused on his defensive smarts and back-checking abilities. He has indeed played often on the third and even the fourth line. But in his twilight and still very dangerous, he enters the 09/10 NHL season as his last. And he wants one more Cup. At the beginning of the previous season, it looked as though he may carry the team on his back to the playoffs. But the frequent injuries to his teammates made it too heavy a burden to lift and he succumbed to the frustrations of the long campaign while still managing to finish fourth on the team in scoring. But don't you think he'll be motivated in this, his last season? You bet. And I hope to surprise a few by having Modano on my team for depth and scoring more points than most would expect.


THE DAILY TIP IN REPORT (DTIR)

Will the Dallas STARS be in contention for the playoffs again this season? Well, they have to start playing the games before anyone knows. But give us ten games and we might be able to tell you. OGA knows. And you can, too.

Make sure to sign up for the daily, bargain-priced analytical tool for your NHL analysis and fantasy needs by ordering the OGA Daily Tip-In Report (DTIR). For only $10.00, the season-long subscription to the DTIR is delivered to you each morning via email (minus the Olympics, of course). With OGA's Daily Tip-In, you will have insight to the teams' chances of qualifying for the playoffs - potentially well before the mathematical call is made - in addition to important team notes as their play is measured each night against the PQC. See a teaser and read about the DTIR here.

And remember, the OGA 2008/09 Report Card (how accurate are our calls?) will be posted at the conclusion of the SPRs on September 30th.

Tomorrow is Hump Day and Big Tex brings you the SPR for the Detroit Red Wings. How fitting.

Take me back to www.ongoalanalysis.com

"Who's Got JR?" A Video Tribute - Frozen Pill

This post was going to be for the San Jose Sharks Off-Season Update. However, with yesterday's retirement of Jeremy Roenick after 1363 NHL games played over 20 seasons, this post shall be a quick tribute to the end of the Era of JR. Considered by many as the current ambassador of hockey, JR was also the NHL's rock star long before Ovie-1 hit the scene in DC.

In his younger years, he was brash and mouthy and brought less-than-fond attention to himself and the game at times. But as Roenick matured through the years, he brought a certain passion to the game through his play and conduct that could enamor even the most ardent fan of the opposing team on any given night. And Jeremy would be the first to discuss (and has many times) the difference between the player he was and the player he would become in his later years.

And whether you loved or hated him, Jeremy was simply fun and embodied something unique...a bridge between the players of yesteryear's gritty hockey games and the new, flashy skill of today's NHL.

Agitator, Great American goal-scorer and entertainer, I give you JR. A man tough enough to hit Bob Probert, curiously play with his broken jaw on the bench...and white-man dance in front of thousands of viewers. Enjoy this tribute to some of Jeremy's 'other' hockey moments.

SINGING THE DALLAS STARS 09/10 PARTIAL-SEASON TICKET HOLDER BLUES by Big Tex

As long-time readers know, I don't normally cover the Dallas Stars - they're on the Frozen Pill's beat. I live in Dallas, though, and am a Stars fan (except when they're playing the Rangers). I purchased my partial-season ticket plan today, and thought this would be a good time to offer up some constructive criticism regarding the Stars' 2009-2010 home schedule.

Guess who's NOT coming to dinner?

I'll give you a hint: The Rangers, Capitals and Penguins. This season, I won't get to see my favorite team, the most exciting player in the NHL today, or the defending Stanley Cup Champs in person. These were my top three must-see games in 08-09, but they're not an option this season. Lower on my list, Les Habitants are the only Canadian club not flying into DFW during the coming season (I'm not a Habs fan - I just miss Bob Gainey). In short, this is garbage. Every team should play a home-and-home set against every team in the opposing conference every year.

The "Consolation Prizes"

When picking the games for my partial plan, I struggled to find ten games I really wanted to see in person. Chicago was a no-brainer, but I only selected the first of their two appearances - the second time the Blackhawks visit Dallas is Game 81, and I seriously doubt this game will have any real meaning for either club. Boston, Detroit's 2nd visit (wish their 1st stop wasn't right before Christmas), and a Night-Before-Thanksgiving tilt with the much-improved Blues received automatic bids, as did both Columbus games (I cover the Blue Jackets for OGA...and miss Ken Hitchcock).

Those were the first six games that caught my eye. Upon further review of the Stars' schedule, I decided to get tickets for the first Dallas appearances of Messrs. Hedman and Tavares. Two games remained, which I left up to my son. Tex Jr. picked the perpetually-rebuilding Toronto Maple Leafs and the Philadelphia Prongers. I didn't ask why he picked those games; I just assumed he wanted to hear Celena Rae sing "O Canada" at least once this season, and he figured the Philly game would be phun.

My Personal Boycott

At this point, you might be saying to yourself, "Tex, those look like decent choices, but...how could you pass on all twelve games against division rivals San Jose, Anaheim, Los Angeles and Phoenix?" This is my personal boycott: I won't pay to watch the Stars play any of these teams, because the Dallas Stars don't belong in the Pacific Division. I've emailed the NHL on this subject, and I even sent Gary Bettman a globe, to no avail.

In a logical world, Vancouver would be in the Pacific, given that waves from that ocean crash against property in that city. I understand, however, the desire to keep the three western Canadian teams together. Fine. Put Colorado in the Pacific, and move the Stars into the Northwest Division. Dallas has a good playoff history with Edmonton, a love-hate relationship with Minnesota, a vendetta against Vancouver, and I will never forget the fact that, in exchange for the Stars' current GM, Dallas sent Jarome Iginla to Calgary when the Flames really wanted Todd Harvey. Yes, the Dallas Stars could easily make themselves at home in the Northwest Division. Until that happens, I'm not buying ticket one to a Stars' divisional game. Are you listening, Gary? This is where do my best Denis Lemieux impression, shouting, "Trade me right f***ing now!", and hanging up the phone.

Trade me back to On Goal Analysis right f***ing now

The "Non-Traditional" Invasion Begins

Well, well, well...The 2009 NHL Entry Draft took place last weekend, and Big Tex feels like doing a little victory dance. Some of you may remember a blog post from early May, in which I stated that non-traditional market teams were helping to grow the NHL's talent pool. Others may remember me making the same argument in comments on one of my favorite sites, Illegal Curve. Naturally, as I watched the draft, I was particularly cognizant of draftees from "Non-Traditional" markets. Here's the breakdown, by state of birth:

Utah: 1 (Dylan Olsen - 28th - CHI)
Texas: 1 (Chris Brown - 36th - PHX)
Colorado: 2 (Matt Clark - 37th - ANA & Drew Shore - 44th - FLA)
California: 3 (Kyle Bigos - 99th - EDM, Brandon Kozun - 179th - LAK & Mitchell Callahan - 180th - DET)
Florida: 1 (Brandon Maxwell - 154th - COL)
Arizona: 1 (Anthony Hamburg - 193rd - MIN)(NOTE: Hamburg gets DOUBLE non-traditional points because he was drafted out of the Dallas Stars' AAA Midget team)
Alabama: 1 (Nic Dowd - 198th - LAK)

That's a total of TEN draftees from non-traditional markets. According to nhl.com, that makes the 2009 Non-Traditional Market Draft Class roughly 43% larger than the 2009 Russian Draft Class. Yes, I'm well aware of the reasons (KHL) behind the NHL's reluctance (no transfer agreement) to draft Russians these days (KHL, cough, cough), but it is heartening to see the development of a new talent pool to help offset the rapidly dwindling Russian pipeline. The question all you makeitseven folks should ask yourselves is this: Without the Stars, Avalanche, Coyotes, Panthers and KingsDucksSharks (among others), would these kids have been drafted into the NHL, NFL or MLB?

I'll say it again, both because I believe it and because I like to repeat myself: Non-traditional market franchises, while an affront to Canadian and East Coast hockey purists, are helping grow the NHL talent pool. In the long-term, the growth of the talent pool will allow for expansion without a significant drop-off in quality of the on-ice product, and will gradually raise the level of play throughout the league. So, in regards to the so-called "Southern Strategy", I'm going to say something I've never directly stated before now, and may never say again: Gary Bettman was right.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis

GM or Mad Scientist? You Make the Call

DISCLAIMER: The following is certified 100% pure uninformed speculation. Unlike a certain Blogger Who Shall Remain Nameless, I didn't hear any of this from "my sources", or even "a guy I met in the elevator". This is simply me putting on my "Mad Scientist/GM" hat and drinking too much coffee.

If I'm Bruins' GM Peter Chiarelli, I'm wondering if the Isles will take Phil Kessel (or Kessel and a draft pick) for the top pick in the draft...which I would use to take Victor Hedman.

Let's see a show of hands: Who wants Jay Bouwmeester? Okay, now: Who can afford JayBo? If I'm Isles' GM Garth Snow, I'm wishing I were in that group. I'd draft John Tavares and make Bouwmeester an offer he couldn't refuse, and wait for the blogosphere to proclaim the Islanders "The Next Blackhawks".

If I'm brand-new Stars' GM Joe Nieuwendyk, more than anything else, I am VERY INTERESTED in the health of Sergei Zubov.

If I'm Blue Jackets' GM Scott Howson, I'm betting that a healthy Derrick Brassard will quickly become the top line center I so desperately need, but I'm on the prowl for a good #2. And if I'm Ken Hitchcock, I'm very quietly talking to both Howson and Jere Lehtinen about what it would take to convince Lehts to move to Columbus for a year or two.

A conversation I had with my son a few weeks ago keeps coming back to me. When I mentioned to him Toronto GM Brian Burke's stated desire to trade up for the top pick in the draft, Tex Jr. hit the nail on the head: "If I were the Islanders, who does Toronto have that I'd want? Nobody! Luke Schenn, maybe...but that's it, and that's not enough for me to give up John Tavares." Out of the mouths of babes...

Take me back to On Goal Analysis

What Canada Doesn't Understand About Hockey

Undoubtedly, hockey fans across Canada are in high spirits today: Not only did their Canucks defeat the Blackhawks, 3-1, to take a 2-1 series lead, but the Phoenix Coyotes filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Since the franchise relocated to Phoenix from Winnipeg in 1996, many Canadians have been rooting/hoping/wishing/praying for its' failure. I've been a fan of The Great Game long enough to understand and appreciate the Canadian view of hockey (which, in many respects, is quite similar to the Texan view of football - somewhere between sport and religion, and closer to the latter). With all due respect to the country that gave birth to hockey, Canadians who would dance on the Coyotes' grave, and who would like to see the other "non-traditional market" teams - Dallas, Nashville, Atlanta, Tampa and Florida in particular - fail are, themselves, failing to see and understand the big picture.

Here's a (not so) crazy idea, Canada: Instead of focusing your efforts and prayers on the demise of the NHL in the southern U.S., why not cheer for the success of those franchises? If the Nashvilles, Atlantas and Floridas of the league can remain viable, the door can be opened for expansion. What did I just say? You heard me: EXPANSION.

Provided the southern U.S. franchises can stabilize and remain viable, I see the door opening for expansion to a 32-team NHL. Where would those new franchises go? While Las Vegas and Kansas City are most commonly mentioned, I think the league would be foolish not to pursue the recently-floated idea of a second franchise in Toronto, and on a personal level, I'd love to see the Jets (as an expansion franchise) flying high over Winnipeg again.

Why not simply relocate, say, the Coyotes and Thrashers? Because abandoning those (or any other) markets would be a step backwards, a defeat, for the NHL and for hockey itself. The truth of the matter is that any non-traditional market team can be viable - successful, even - provided they are successful on the ice. Even the Coyotes, whose previous owner shot them in the foot by building the arena across town from their fan base, could get fans to make the drive by putting up Ws and making a little noise in the playoffs. As General Patton (George C. Scott) said at the beginning of his biopic:

"...Americans love a winner, and will not tolerate a loser."

Won't expansion dilute the talent pool, lowering the quality of play and dragging the NHL back down the path toward the "dead puck" era? No, it won't, and here's why: Thanks to the NHL's expansion into non-traditional (southern U.S.) markets, the talent pool is now expanding. Look, for example, at the US National Team Developmental Program's Under-18 team: The roster features a goalie from Florida and two skaters from Texas. The US NTDP U-17 roster is even more diversified, with four forwards from California and one each from Texas, Colorado, Las Vegas and...wait for it...Arizona. Kids who grew up playing hockey in Texas and Florida are now popping up in Canada's major junior leagues and in big-time NCAA Division I programs. Kids across the southern U.S. (like Tex Jr.) who would otherwise be playing football, basketball, baseball or soccer, are now choosing hockey...and it's all because of the NHL's expansion/relocation below the Mason-Dixon line.

So Canada, I'd like to invite you aboard the NHL Expansion Train. Remember, though: It's because of the non-traditional market teams that the talent pool is growing, which will only improve the quality of play, which will, in turn, bring in new fans (increasing TV viewership and league revenues accordingly), which will allow the NHL to expand to 32 teams...And a note to Gary Bettman: When the NHL does expand again, it's time to reward the country that gave birth to The Great Game, and Toronto and Winnipeg would seem to be most deserving.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis

Calling All Ranger (and Stars) Fans!

First, a bit of important background info:
For those of you who haven't read my profile, here's the Readers' Digest Condensed Version: I was born and raised in Texas, but I've been a proud fan of the New York Rangers since 1980, and a Stars' fan since they moved to Dallas in 1993. I have enormous respect for the history and traditions of The Great Game, and as a Native Texan, I'm proud of the New York Rangers' historic ties to The Lone Star State. How many of you are aware of the fact that the Rangers were founded by George "Tex" Rickard, who earned his nickname from his time spent as Town Marshall of Henrietta, TX? Today, the rodeo arena in Henrietta is named in his honor, and The Colonel and I made the pilgrimage last August:
I'm the rather handsome bald spot on the right

As the story goes, Rickard's New York NHL franchise was dubbed "Tex's Rangers" by the local media, and the name stuck. For those of you who haven't yet guessed it, my screen name is a play on both Tex Rickard and that icon of the State Fair of Texas, the "other" Big Tex. And yes, the photo I use is Rickard, himself.

The reason for the background info is simple: If you're a fan of either the Rangers or the Stars, I need your help in correcting a serious oversight. You see, there's another Texas tie to the New York Rangers: Brian Leetch was born in Corpus Christi, TX, and was just the second Native Texan to play in the NHL. He's had his jersey retired by the Rangers, been enshrined in the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame, and he's a shoe-in for the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. Despite his many outstanding achievements, however, Brian Leetch has not yet been inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame.

I've already started the ball rolling by nominating Leetch for induction into the TSHoF. I have received assurances from the staff there that multiple nominations are NOT necessary. The way you can help, and what I'm asking each of you to consider, is to become an Official Voting Member of the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. Yes, it does cost money, but for just $25, you'll be able to vote this June to put Brian Leetch into the (Texas) Hall. I've already signed up and forked over my $25, and you can do the same here.

I'd like to state the following for the record: Other than purchasing a membership in order to have voting privileges when the ballots are mailed out this June, I have no affiliation with the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, nor do I stand to benefit - financially or otherwise - from your membership. I'm doing this simply because I love The Great Game of Hockey and I want to do what I can to both recognize one of the Rangers' all-time greats and help grow the game in my home state by raising awareness of Texas' contributions (however small) to the NHL. If you'd like to join me in my crusade...thanks, and welcome aboard! If not, just ask yourself this: Was the joy of watching Brian Leetch skate at MSG for all those years - hoisting the Stanley Cup and becoming the only American-born player ever to win the Conn Smythe Trophy - worth $25?

Thanks for your time, and LET'S GO, RANGERS!!!

Take me back to On Goal Analysis

Oh, the Humanity!!!

What I like about history is that it helps put things in perspective. While sitting in the AAC last night (proudly wearing my Rangers Sean Avery t-shirt), I tried to come up with an historical event to help me put the game in perspective. What came to mind was the Hindenburg Disaster. After keeping the game close through two periods, the Rangers suddenly burst into flames, slowly sank to the ice, and collapsed into themselves...a complete, utter disaster. The only positive to come out of it was that, unlike that fateful day in New Jersey, nobody died last night.

The game was, indeed, historic: It was the first time the Stars have hung ten goals on an opponent since they were still the Minnesota North Stars (1992), and the first time the Rangers allowed ten since 1993. The Blueshirts' third period collapse was their worst since...November 1, 2008, when the Maple Leafs scored five third period goals in 5:21 to win, 5-2. Is it mere coincidence that Stephen Valiquette was in goal for that game, too? At this point, all I can say is that I hope so.

In a nutshell, the Rangers were simply terrible. I consider myself fortunate that Stars fans (with the notable exception of Tex Jr.) are generally very polite, so the only taunting I had to endure on my way out of the AAC was from my son (disciplinary action to follow).

If this game doesn't spur action on Glen Sather's part, nothing will. As I said yesterday, they need Avery NOW. At this point, he can only help.

Take me back to On Goal Analysis