Game 7 Final Score: St. Louis Blues 4 - Boston Bruins 1
I am SO FCUKING GLAD BOSTON LOST!
CONGRATS BLUES!
This is a historic win for St. Louis!
Showing posts with label playoff predictions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label playoff predictions. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Stanley Cup Game 7; Boston v St. Louis; Tonight 8PM Eastern Time
Game 7, NHL Stanley Cup, 8PM tonight, in Boston. Series tied 3 games apiece.
The Blues have never won The Cup. I'd like to see them win tonight.
Predictions
Oddssharks predicts a final score of Bruins 3.6 - Blues 1.8.
My prediction: Boston 3 - St. Louis 2 in OT.
Happy Hockey!
Disclaimer: The above and future fantasy "final score predictions", are not meant to be, or intended to be, or construed as, or subconsciously suggested as, advice on which to make wagers or betting. It is simply the observation of an NHL fan. If you have even the slightest desire to gamble based on anything written here, immediately seek help from your doctor and/or call 911. You are INSANE to consider my fantasy NHL musings as a basis on which to gamble, “sportsbet” or other type of wager. I am not responsible for any losses, financial, emotional or otherwise. On the other hand, good natured comments of childish taunting, ad-hominem attacks and name-calling by hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike in the comments section is encouraged.
The Blues have never won The Cup. I'd like to see them win tonight.
Predictions
Oddssharks predicts a final score of Bruins 3.6 - Blues 1.8.
My prediction: Boston 3 - St. Louis 2 in OT.
Happy Hockey!
Disclaimer: The above and future fantasy "final score predictions", are not meant to be, or intended to be, or construed as, or subconsciously suggested as, advice on which to make wagers or betting. It is simply the observation of an NHL fan. If you have even the slightest desire to gamble based on anything written here, immediately seek help from your doctor and/or call 911. You are INSANE to consider my fantasy NHL musings as a basis on which to gamble, “sportsbet” or other type of wager. I am not responsible for any losses, financial, emotional or otherwise. On the other hand, good natured comments of childish taunting, ad-hominem attacks and name-calling by hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike in the comments section is encouraged.
Sunday, June 9, 2019
Stanley Cup Game 6; Tonight in St. Louis; Blues lead series 3 - 2. One game away from their first Cup.
NHL.com: Stanley Cup Game 6 preview and Game 5 Recap.
Game 5 Final Score: Blues 2 - Bruins 1
My prediction for Game 5 was Blues 4, Bruins 3. I picked the winning team, but not the right final score. Oh well, I'll take that.
Should the Blues win tonight, expect the ground under St. Louis to liquefy due to the celebrating, causing an earthquake with rolling aftershocks hitting all four corners of the country. Inside Enterprise Center...the decibel level tonight? Man...a level that will make an AC/DC concert seem subdued and reserved by comparison.
Predictions
Oddsshark predicted final score: Boston 3.2 - St. Louis 2.2
Game 6, Blues on Home Ice. I originally predicted this series will go all seven games. I'll maintain that prediction.
But I'd sure like to see the Blues win their first Stanley Cup - in 52 years.
My Prediction: Blues 3 - Bruins 2 in OT.
Game 6, 7PM Eastern Time - FREE! - on broadcast NBC.
Go Blues! Happy Hockey.
Disclaimer: The above and
future fantasy "final score predictions", are not meant to be, or
intended to be, or construed as, or subconsciously suggested as, advice
on which to make wagers or betting. It is simply the observation of an
NHL fan. If you have even the slightest desire to gamble based on
anything written here, immediately seek help from your doctor and/or
call 911. You are INSANE to consider my fantasy NHL musings as a basis
on which to gamble, “sportsbet” or other type of wager. I am not
responsible for any losses, financial, emotional or otherwise. On the
other hand, good natured comments of childish taunting, ad-hominem
attacks and name-calling by hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike in the
comments section is encouraged.
Thursday, June 6, 2019
Stanley Cup Game 5; Tonight in Boston. Series tied 2 - 2.
The Stanley Cup series is tied, two games each for Boston and St. Louis. Game 4 Recap here.
Monday's Game 4 final score was Blues 4, Boston 2.
My Prediction for Game 4 was: Blues 3 - Bruins 1. While my final score prediction was wrong, I did accurately pick the winner of the game. I'll give myself one point for that.
Game 5 tonight, 8PM Eastern Time in Boston and it's on FREE network NBC-TV. FREE! It's FREE! Of course, you'll have to sit through television commercials which pay for the FREE broadcast, but you likely already own a fleet of Lincolns for no other reason than Matthew McConaughey drives them.
Monday's Game 4, statistically - or for trivia purposes - was the first Stanley Cup game EVER won by St. Louis, in St. Louis. Kinda neat.
Game 5 - ESPN: What to watch for.
Predictions:
Oddsshark has Bruins over Blues, 3.1 - 2.4.
Playing on Home Ice...Boston will probably win tonight. I'll be contrarian I'm often told I am:
My Prediction: Blues 4, Bruins 3
GO Blues! Happy Hockey!
Disclaimer: The above and
future fantasy "final score predictions", are not meant to be, or
intended to be, or construed as, or subconsciously suggested as, advice
on which to make wagers or betting. It is simply the observation of an
NHL fan. If you have even the slightest desire to gamble based on
anything written here, immediately seek help from your doctor and/or
call 911. You are INSANE to consider my fantasy NHL musings as a basis
on which to gamble, “sportsbet” or other type of wager. I am not
responsible for any losses, financial, emotional or otherwise. On the
other hand, good natured comments of childish taunting, ad-hominem
attacks and name-calling by hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike in the
comments section is encouraged.
Monday, June 3, 2019
Stanley Cup Game 4; Tonight in St. Louis. Series: BOS 2 - STL 1
Saturday's Game 3 of the NHL Stanley Cup had Boston winning 7 to 2 over St. Louis. P1 ended with a score of the Bruins leading the Blues 3 - 0. The Blues picked up a goal in P2 while the Bruins picked up two. Going into P3, the score was 5 - 1, the Blues managed one goal while Boston nailed two more.
St. Louis couldn't catch or make a break for themselves on Monday night and Boston was on top of their game. Blues' defense was sluggish, which is in keeping with their inconsistent play during regular-season. Some nights they had it (defense), other nights they didn't.
Game 3 Final Score: Bruins 7 - Blues 2.
My Game 3 Score Prediction: Blues 5 - Bruins 2. I'm 0 for 3; on a roll!
St. Louis couldn't catch or make a break for themselves on Monday night and Boston was on top of their game. Blues' defense was sluggish, which is in keeping with their inconsistent play during regular-season. Some nights they had it (defense), other nights they didn't.
Game 3 Final Score: Bruins 7 - Blues 2.
My Game 3 Score Prediction: Blues 5 - Bruins 2. I'm 0 for 3; on a roll!
Tonight's Game 4 preview here.
The Puck hits the Ice at 8PM Eastern time and it's televised on Teh NBC FREE TV! FREE!! FREE!! That must make Crazy Bernie and Teh Cortez happy...because... it's FREE!
Predictions
Oddsshark predicts tonight's Final Score: Bruins 3.2 - Blues 2.2
My Prediction: Blues 3 - Bruins 1
GO Blues! Happy Hockey!
Disclaimer: The above and
future fantasy "final score predictions", are not meant to be, or
intended to be, or construed as, or subconsciously suggested as, advice
on which to make wagers or betting. It is simply the observation of an
NHL fan. If you have even the slightest desire to gamble based on
anything written here, immediately seek help from your doctor and/or
call 911. You are INSANE to consider my fantasy NHL musings as a basis
on which to gamble, “sportsbet” or other type of wager. I am not
responsible for any losses, financial, emotional or otherwise. On the
other hand, good natured comments of childish taunting, ad-hominem
attacks and name-calling by hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike in the
comments section is encouraged.
Saturday, June 1, 2019
Stanley Cup Game 3; Tonight in St. Louis. Series tied 1 - 1.
St. Louis won Game 2, a final score 3 - 2 in OT on Wednesday night, in Boston, tying the series one game each.
My Game 2 prediction for a final score was Boston 3 - St. Louis 1, so I'm 0 for 2, my inability to accurately predict a final score consistent as it's been in past seasons. Once in awhile I get one right, but then a blind squirrel finds an acorn every now and then.
Game 3 is tonight, at 8 PM Eastern time. It's the first game of the series with the Blues playing on home ice with Game 4 also in StL.
Injury List: Scroll halfway down the page and on the left, at Oddsshark you'll find an injuries "box". Click on BOS and STL for player injuries; both teams affected.
Game 3 Predictions
Oddsshark predicts a final score of Game 3 with the Bruins over the Blues, 2.8 to 2.6.
I don't know...I'm pulling random numbers out of the ether here...My prediction: Blues 5 - Bruins 2.
Go Blues!
Happy Hockey!
Disclaimer: The above and future fantasy "final score predictions", are not meant to be, or intended to be, or construed as, or subconsciously suggested as, advice on which to make wagers or betting. It is simply the observation of an NHL fan. If you have even the slightest desire to gamble based on anything written here, immediately seek help from your doctor and/or call 911. You are INSANE to consider my fantasy NHL musings as a basis on which to gamble, “sportsbet” or other type of wager. I am not responsible for any losses, financial, emotional or otherwise. On the other hand, good natured comments of childish taunting, ad-hominem attacks and name-calling by hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike in the comments section is encouraged.
Wednesday, May 29, 2019
Stanley Cup Game 2 Tonight: Blues v Bruins
Monday's Game One of the NHL Stanley Cup was a win for Boston over St. Louis.
Final score of Game #1: Bruins 4 - Blues 2.
My Game #1 prediction: Blues 4 - Bruins 3 (in OT).
The Blues took a 2 to 0 lead into the second period. Bruins Connor Clifton fired a puck past Blues' goalie Jordan Binnington, followed minutes later by teammate Charlie McAvoy, tying the score at 2 - 2.
It stayed at 2 - 2 until P3, when Boston's Sean Kuraly scored, giving the Bruins 3, St. Louis 2. Teammate Brad Marchand nailed the puck into an empty net with a minute, 48 seconds left in the game, making the final score of 4 - 2.
The Blues played well, basically, the whole game. They got a little sloppy, Boston capitalized on it, and St. Louis couldn't pop back.
The Blues' Robert Thomas and Vince Dunn are on the injured list for tonight's Game 2, in Boston, at 8PM Eastern Time.
NHL.com: Are the Blues poised for a rebound in Game 2?
The Blues don't need to win tonight's game, but they really do. Going into game 3 - in St. Louis - down by two, kind of...sucks.
Predictions
Oddsshark predicts a final score in tonight's game of: Boston 3.2 - St. Louis 2.2.
I'd like for the Blues to win and tie the series tonight. The realist in me speaks differently.
My Prediction: Boston 3 - St. Louis 1
Happy Hockey!
Disclaimer: The above and future fantasy "final score predictions", are not meant to be, or intended to be, or construed as, or subconsciously suggested as, advice on which to make wagers or betting. It is simply the observation of an NHL fan. If you have even the slightest desire to gamble based on anything written here, immediately seek help from your doctor and/or call 911. You are INSANE to consider my fantasy NHL musings as a basis on which to gamble, “sportsbet” or other type of wager. I am not responsible for any losses, financial, emotional or otherwise. On the other hand, good natured comments of childish taunting, ad-hominem attacks and name-calling by hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike in the comments section is encouraged.
Monday, May 27, 2019
2019 Stanley Cup: Game One, Blues v Bruins.
Game One of The Stanley Cup starts tonight on broadcast NBC ("free"..."FREE !!" "FREE !!!"), at 8PM Eastern Time.
St. Louis Blues vs Boston Bruins; the Blues easily the underdog in this match-up.
Oh, the factors...
Oh, the factors...
Boston on home ice, always nice. For the Blues, nothing better than that feeling of winning the first "away" game; really a boost for both morale and endorphins.
USA MacPaper: NHL injury list lists three players for the Bruins listed as "Probably Monday" while one Blues player, defenseman Vince Dunn is definitely out for tonight's game.
Goalies:
Blues Goalie Jordan Binnington has done a wonderful job in the playoffs.
Bruins Goalie Tuukka Rask is everything any team wants guarding the net.
Bruins Goalie Tuukka Rask is everything any team wants guarding the net.
Here's a side-by-side comparison of Binnington and Rask at Daily Face Off.
Predictions
My Predictions:
* This series goes the full seven games.
* Tonight's Game One: Blues 4 - Bruins 3 in OT.
Happy Hockey!
Disclaimer: The above and future fantasy "final score predictions", are not meant to be, or intended to be, or construed as, or subconsciously suggested as, advice on which to make wagers or betting. It is simply the observation of an NHL fan. If you have even the slightest desire to gamble based on anything written here, immediately seek help from your doctor and/or call 911. You are INSANE to consider my fantasy NHL musings as a basis on which to gamble, “sportsbet” or other type of wager. I am not responsible for any losses, financial, emotional or otherwise. On the other hand, good natured comments of childish taunting, ad-hominem attacks and name-calling by hockey fans and non-hockey fans alike in the comments section is encouraged.
Friday, June 8, 2018
Caps Stanley Cup Winner over Vegas;
It Was Goalie vs Goalie
My prediction for last night's Game 5 for The Stanley Cup was:
LV 5; Caps 4 in OT.
Actual Final Score:
Caps 4; LV 3
Final series game total; Washington 4; Vegas 1.
And...I predicted a six-game series, but the Caps closed it down in five. Just another of my many inaccurate predictions. Eh ... I got a few right.
Game 5 definitely came down to Goalie vs Goalie; the Caps Braden Holtby and Vegas' Marc-Andre Fleury.
Neither team scored in the first period. After that, the pucks and goals started flying.
In the second period, with 13 minutes 36 seconds of play time remaining, Caps Jakub Vrana put Washington on the score board giving the Caps 1 to a yet-to-score Vegas.
Vegas answered Vrana's goal slightly over three minutes later when Nate Schmidt tied the game 1 - 1. The tie was short-lived. About 45 seconds later, Alex Ovechkin put the Caps up by another goal. The one goal advantage for the Caps didn't last long. Not quite three minutes later, David Perron scored and put the game at 2 - 2. And with 30 seconds remaining in period 2, Vegas scored again with Reilly Smith, ending P2 with Vegas at 3, Washington at 2. Smith's goal would be the last goal for Vegas.
Not quite ten minutes into P3, Devante Smith-Pelly scored as he fell to the ice and with a sweep of the stick, slid the puck past Fleury. Three and a half minutes later, Caps' Lars Eller scored putting the game at Caps 4; Vegas 3 - the final score of the game.
It was an incredible game.
After 44 years of being an NHL team, the Caps won their first Stanley Cup. In their first season, Vegas earned their way into the Cup finals. You couldn't have planned for a Stanley Cup playoff with two such disparate teams.
Holtby and Fleury were so evenly matched - the game could have gone either way. But Holtby stopped one puck more than did Fleury.
This was a hell of a playoff series and Cup games.
NHL Training Camp for the 2018-2019 season begin mid-September with pre-season games starting a few weeks later.
LV 5; Caps 4 in OT.
Actual Final Score:
Caps 4; LV 3
Final series game total; Washington 4; Vegas 1.
And...I predicted a six-game series, but the Caps closed it down in five. Just another of my many inaccurate predictions. Eh ... I got a few right.
Game 5 definitely came down to Goalie vs Goalie; the Caps Braden Holtby and Vegas' Marc-Andre Fleury.
In the second period, with 13 minutes 36 seconds of play time remaining, Caps Jakub Vrana put Washington on the score board giving the Caps 1 to a yet-to-score Vegas.
Vegas answered Vrana's goal slightly over three minutes later when Nate Schmidt tied the game 1 - 1. The tie was short-lived. About 45 seconds later, Alex Ovechkin put the Caps up by another goal. The one goal advantage for the Caps didn't last long. Not quite three minutes later, David Perron scored and put the game at 2 - 2. And with 30 seconds remaining in period 2, Vegas scored again with Reilly Smith, ending P2 with Vegas at 3, Washington at 2. Smith's goal would be the last goal for Vegas.
Not quite ten minutes into P3, Devante Smith-Pelly scored as he fell to the ice and with a sweep of the stick, slid the puck past Fleury. Three and a half minutes later, Caps' Lars Eller scored putting the game at Caps 4; Vegas 3 - the final score of the game.
It was an incredible game.
2018 Stanley Cup Winner: The Washington Capitals
Ovechkin was awarded MVP, and deservedly so.
When P3 ended with the Caps win, Ovechkin was ready for some beers.
The game had its share of skirmishes, but not as physical as I'd expected.
The game clock died, or for whatever reason was unavailable, in the final minute of the game. That added a few moments of confusion and suspense, but the clock re-booted or returned.Ovechkin became the first Russia-born captain to lift the Stanley Cup[.]
After 44 years of being an NHL team, the Caps won their first Stanley Cup. In their first season, Vegas earned their way into the Cup finals. You couldn't have planned for a Stanley Cup playoff with two such disparate teams.
Holtby and Fleury were so evenly matched - the game could have gone either way. But Holtby stopped one puck more than did Fleury.
This was a hell of a playoff series and Cup games.
NHL Training Camp for the 2018-2019 season begin mid-September with pre-season games starting a few weeks later.
Tuesday, June 5, 2018
Caps Win Game 4 of Stanley Cup 6 to 2;
Is It Over for the Vegas Knights?
Yesterday I wrote:
"Vegas isn't going to give the Caps another chance by playing substandard."
And my final score prediction:
LV 4; Caps 3 in OT
Is there a recall on my NHL crystal ball that I didn't hear about?
One: LV played substandard.
Two: the Actual Final Score:
Caps 6; LV 2
Yeah, you can take my predictions to the bank...and shortly after to the poorhouse.
Game total in the series: Caps 3; LV 1.
Last night is two games in a row where LV underperformed. And that's being generous and kind. To me, I didn't see their speed, their finesse or their desire. They looked tired. They came alive and got their game back half-way through P3 and that was too late.
The Caps owned period one, nailing 3 goals. Vegas sat at zero. More stats here.
John Carlson added a 4th goal for the Caps in P2 and LV remained at zero.
LV was scoreless until 5:43 in PERIOD 3 when LV's James Neal slipped the puck past Caps goalie Braden Holtby.
A short bit later, Vegas' Reilly Smith put another point on the score board and it was LV 2; Caps 4. Could LV, now with 2, hope for two more, tie and go into an OT? No.
Less than 2 minutes after Smith's goal, the Caps' Mike Kempny gave Washington their 5th goal and few minutes later, his teammate Brett Connolly nailed a 6th goal for Washington. It was over for Vegas.
A few fights broke out here and there, especially near the end of the game. LV's Ryan Reaves and Caps' Devante Smith-Pelly had Reaves penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct, and Caps' T.J. Oshie got a 10 minute misconduct near the end of the game so his ice-time was done for the night. A whole mix of players from both teams got a little heated. I'm surprised Reaves and Smith-Pelly haven't yet come to a full-blown brawl. It's been brewing for the entire series.
I have no vested interest in either team winning The Cup. I wanted to see the Penguins three-peat, but that didn't happen - the Caps won that series. It'd be nice having the Caps win, after a 44-year playing history, and no Stanley Cup to claim, no one can say they don't deserve it.
Should LV manage to dig out of their deficit, - and win - they will be the first NHL team in their first year of existence to win The Cup. Kind of seems unfair compared to the years the Caps have tried and failed. But records exist to be made and broken, don't they?
To reach The Cup series, Vegas beat L.A., the Sharks and the Jets.
For the Caps series, they eliminated the Blue Jackets, the Pens and TBay.
The Caps have more game losses than LV in this whole playoff series.
Does having to fight harder to win make you the better team or, are you the better team because you eliminated your opponents with less losses than the team you're facing for the Stanley Cup? Can you make the argument that the Caps faced better teams and a tougher set of series than the teams LV beat?
I don't know. While game win/loss ratio trends for a Caps win, is The Cup still up for grabs? The Caps have to win only one more game and the Cup is theirs. Vegas must win all three remaining games.
And a reminder to self: I predicted a six game series.
Game 5 is Thursday, June 7 and on Vegas home ice. Will the Caps make it the final game?
"Vegas isn't going to give the Caps another chance by playing substandard."
And my final score prediction:
LV 4; Caps 3 in OT
Is there a recall on my NHL crystal ball that I didn't hear about?
One: LV played substandard.
Two: the Actual Final Score:
Caps 6; LV 2
Yeah, you can take my predictions to the bank...and shortly after to the poorhouse.
Game total in the series: Caps 3; LV 1.
Last night is two games in a row where LV underperformed. And that's being generous and kind. To me, I didn't see their speed, their finesse or their desire. They looked tired. They came alive and got their game back half-way through P3 and that was too late.
The Caps owned period one, nailing 3 goals. Vegas sat at zero. More stats here.
John Carlson added a 4th goal for the Caps in P2 and LV remained at zero.
LV was scoreless until 5:43 in PERIOD 3 when LV's James Neal slipped the puck past Caps goalie Braden Holtby.
A short bit later, Vegas' Reilly Smith put another point on the score board and it was LV 2; Caps 4. Could LV, now with 2, hope for two more, tie and go into an OT? No.
Less than 2 minutes after Smith's goal, the Caps' Mike Kempny gave Washington their 5th goal and few minutes later, his teammate Brett Connolly nailed a 6th goal for Washington. It was over for Vegas.
A few fights broke out here and there, especially near the end of the game. LV's Ryan Reaves and Caps' Devante Smith-Pelly had Reaves penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct, and Caps' T.J. Oshie got a 10 minute misconduct near the end of the game so his ice-time was done for the night. A whole mix of players from both teams got a little heated. I'm surprised Reaves and Smith-Pelly haven't yet come to a full-blown brawl. It's been brewing for the entire series.
I have no vested interest in either team winning The Cup. I wanted to see the Penguins three-peat, but that didn't happen - the Caps won that series. It'd be nice having the Caps win, after a 44-year playing history, and no Stanley Cup to claim, no one can say they don't deserve it.
Should LV manage to dig out of their deficit, - and win - they will be the first NHL team in their first year of existence to win The Cup. Kind of seems unfair compared to the years the Caps have tried and failed. But records exist to be made and broken, don't they?
To reach The Cup series, Vegas beat L.A., the Sharks and the Jets.
For the Caps series, they eliminated the Blue Jackets, the Pens and TBay.
The Caps have more game losses than LV in this whole playoff series.
Does having to fight harder to win make you the better team or, are you the better team because you eliminated your opponents with less losses than the team you're facing for the Stanley Cup? Can you make the argument that the Caps faced better teams and a tougher set of series than the teams LV beat?
I don't know. While game win/loss ratio trends for a Caps win, is The Cup still up for grabs? The Caps have to win only one more game and the Cup is theirs. Vegas must win all three remaining games.
And a reminder to self: I predicted a six game series.
Game 5 is Thursday, June 7 and on Vegas home ice. Will the Caps make it the final game?
Monday, June 4, 2018
Stanley Cup Game 4 - Vegas vs Washington;
Tonight, June 4
Game 4 in a best-of-seven series starts tonight at 8PM EST, televised on broadcast (i.e. "over-the-air") NBC.
The series is Caps with 2 games, LV one game. Tonight's game is in Washington. Who will win? Uh...Baltimore?
Of course, the Caps would like nothing better than to be at 3 - 1 going into game 5, in LV on Thursday June 7; also on broadcast NBC network.
I'm guessing tonight's first period is going to be brutal, both teams battling for that first goal. Considering the friction between some of the players, look for some fights tonight.
It's been a physical series, something at which the Caps excel. It's been working for them in the last two games and in their pre-Cup games and they'll continue playing in the same style.
LV was off a notch, in game 3, from how they have been playing the entire playoff series, which is a big part of the Caps winning game 3 on Saturday. Vegas isn't going to play subpar again.
Odds Sharks predicts Caps 3.6; LV 1.7
My pick:
LV 4; Caps 3 in OT
( Disclaimer )
The series is Caps with 2 games, LV one game. Tonight's game is in Washington. Who will win? Uh...Baltimore?
Of course, the Caps would like nothing better than to be at 3 - 1 going into game 5, in LV on Thursday June 7; also on broadcast NBC network.
I'm guessing tonight's first period is going to be brutal, both teams battling for that first goal. Considering the friction between some of the players, look for some fights tonight.
It's been a physical series, something at which the Caps excel. It's been working for them in the last two games and in their pre-Cup games and they'll continue playing in the same style.
LV was off a notch, in game 3, from how they have been playing the entire playoff series, which is a big part of the Caps winning game 3 on Saturday. Vegas isn't going to play subpar again.
My pick:
LV 4; Caps 3 in OT
( Disclaimer )
Sunday, June 3, 2018
Caps Take Game 3; Vegas Down One Game
My incredibly inaccurate prediction for last night's game:
LV 5; Caps 3
Actual Final Score:
LV 1; Caps 3
Last night's win gives the Caps a 2 to 1 lead in the road to the Stanley Cup against LV.
Period one was one of the hardest fought periods I've ever seen in the NHL, both teams desperately wanting that first goal. But, period one ended 0 - 0.
The Caps Alex Ovechkin put Washington on the score board 1 to 0 one minute and ten seconds into period two. Ove was at the top of his game last night.
Injured in game 2, Evgeny Kuznetsov did indeed hit the ice last night and brought the Caps their second goal in period 2.
Tomas Nosek scored the only goal for LV late in the third period.
(I was so tired I hit the bed shortly after the start of the third period.)
More game coverage Here.
Game 4, tomorrow, June 4.
And...Dear NBC(SN), I don't know when your contract with Mike Milbury expires, but for all that is good and holy, please get rid of him.
LV 5; Caps 3
Actual Final Score:
LV 1; Caps 3
Last night's win gives the Caps a 2 to 1 lead in the road to the Stanley Cup against LV.
Period one was one of the hardest fought periods I've ever seen in the NHL, both teams desperately wanting that first goal. But, period one ended 0 - 0.
The Caps Alex Ovechkin put Washington on the score board 1 to 0 one minute and ten seconds into period two. Ove was at the top of his game last night.
Injured in game 2, Evgeny Kuznetsov did indeed hit the ice last night and brought the Caps their second goal in period 2.
Tomas Nosek scored the only goal for LV late in the third period.
(I was so tired I hit the bed shortly after the start of the third period.)
More game coverage Here.
Game 4, tomorrow, June 4.
And...Dear NBC(SN), I don't know when your contract with Mike Milbury expires, but for all that is good and holy, please get rid of him.
 |
| Mike |
Saturday, June 2, 2018
Critical Game 3 Stanley Cup: Caps vs Vegas; June 2
Here comes Game 3 between the Washington Caps and the LVG Knights. The series is tied 1 - 1. Games 3 and 4 in Washington.
Some reports say it is a game-time decision whether or not Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov will play tonight.
Other reports suggest he is expected to play.
Kuznetsov took a major body hit from LV's Brayden McNabb in game 2, with a little over 5 minutes remaining in the first period. Kuznetsov did not return for the rest of that game.
The game begins at 8PM EST on NBCSN, CBC, SN, TVAS. Regarding those streamed game threads, no, you don't need to download anything if a pop-up window tells you you have to in order to view. Find a stream that works for you and bookmark it for future games. (Always be alert for background pop-up windows).
Tonight's predictions:
Odds Sharks predicts: Caps 3.0 - LV 2.4
My pick:
LV 5; Caps 3
( Disclaimer )
Some reports say it is a game-time decision whether or not Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov will play tonight.
Other reports suggest he is expected to play.
Kuznetsov took a major body hit from LV's Brayden McNabb in game 2, with a little over 5 minutes remaining in the first period. Kuznetsov did not return for the rest of that game.
The game begins at 8PM EST on NBCSN, CBC, SN, TVAS. Regarding those streamed game threads, no, you don't need to download anything if a pop-up window tells you you have to in order to view. Find a stream that works for you and bookmark it for future games. (Always be alert for background pop-up windows).
Tonight's predictions:
Odds Sharks predicts: Caps 3.0 - LV 2.4
My pick:
LV 5; Caps 3
( Disclaimer )
Thursday, May 31, 2018
Stanley Cup Game 2: Caps Even the Series 1 - 1 with Vegas;
Braden Holtby's Amazing Stop of Alex Tuch's Shot
Game 2 last night was incredible.
The Caps won game 2 last night, in LV, tying the series 1 - 1.
My pick for game 2:
Caps 4; LV 2
Actual Final Score:
Caps 3; LV 2
Game Stats.
More on game 2.
The return of Caps' Evgeny Kuznetsov for game 3 is being tightly guarded by the Caps. ESPN:
And then...there was that incredible save by Caps' goalie Braden Holtby.
More on Holby's save.
Here's that amazing save, LV's Alex Tuch's shot, stopped by Holtby.
LV moves to Washington for Games 3 and 4, game 3 Saturday at 8PM EST.
The Caps won game 2 last night, in LV, tying the series 1 - 1.
My pick for game 2:
Caps 4; LV 2
Actual Final Score:
Caps 3; LV 2
Game Stats.
More on game 2.
The return of Caps' Evgeny Kuznetsov for game 3 is being tightly guarded by the Caps. ESPN:
Evgeny Kuznetsov is day-to-day with an injury, according to coach Barry Trotz -- who wouldn't elaborate on the nature of the forward's injury.
[.]
[Las Vegas] defenseman Brayden McNabb hit him hard along the boards with a check. Kuznetsov fell to the ice in pain, clutching his left hand.
 |
| Holtby Save; Getty Images |
And then...there was that incredible save by Caps' goalie Braden Holtby.
More on Holby's save.
Here's that amazing save, LV's Alex Tuch's shot, stopped by Holtby.
Fair Use Section 107 U.S. Copyright Code
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
NHL Tuesday, May 30; Caps v LV Game 2 of The Stanley Cup 2018; NHL Game 1 Recap LV - Caps
Just one word describes Monday night's game one for the Stanley Cup between LV and Washington...
Wow, indeed. (Game one Recap).
EDIT NOTE: I had TBay on the brain when thinking of the Caps, thus the reason for thestrikeouts and fixes.
LV leads in this best of seven series, 1 to 0.
If you watched part or all of game one, you know what I mean. If you didn't, you can watch tonight's game 2, with Washington playing in LV and find out if the NHL is to your liking. You won't be disappointed. (See here for the listing of tonight's game).
Monday's game had its share of player fights, pucks bouncing off both the goalie posts and bars, in what normally woulda/ shoulda been a goal, pucks that crossed the red line that really redefines long shot and both teams' goalies (Caps' Braden Holtby, and LV's Marc-Andre-Fleury) making saves that, really, seemed to reach far beyond anything capable of human anatomy and physiology --- it was edge of your seat hockey. Stats and real-time references Here.
More Caps - LV Game 1 Highlights Here, on YTube. (link working as of publishing).
At the most, six games remain. At the worst, 3 games remain. I'll mark it that I think this series will go six games. (Note to self Remember this, Dave).
My prediction on Monday's game:
TBay 3; Caps 2
Actual Final Score:
TBay 4; Caps 6
Caps 4; LV 6
Yep, it was that kind of game, 1-0; then 1-1; then 2-1; then 2-2...and so one, one team up, the other would tie. Incredible, fantastic hockey with passes and plays that were just so intense and sports poetry in motion. Come...come to the NHL...Come. (I have no vested interest in the NHL so no sales pitch here.)
It's just one of the most physically, active/action (constantly moving) sports to watch, all full time action, like rugby and soccer. And then - - and then...you add...this round chunk of vulcanized rubber,- - and add...ice...and the bounces and rolls and dings off the post or a player's skates of the puck defies any logical geographical points.
The NHL is not slow and deliberate NFL, MLB or the NBA where, really, only the last two minutes of any NBA game is what anyone needs to see.
Game 2 is tonight, at 8PM EST on NBCSN, CBC, SN, TVAS. And again, here.
At publishing time, Odds Sharks predicts a final score of: Caps 2.8; LV 2.5
My pick:
TBay 3; LV 1 scratched
TBay 4; LV 2 (final)
EDIT FIX: meant Caps, not TBay:
Caps 4; LV 2
I know I get visitors from Canada, some from LV and also eastern U.S; and I'm kinda thinking 😀there are a few hockey fans, so leave a comment with your thoughts, predictions, takes, whatever.
"Smooth...real smooth."
( Disclaimer )
- - -
Very poorly proofread prior to publishing 5/30/2018
Fixed errors replacing TBay when I meant Caps.
Fair Use Section 107 U.S. Copyright Code
Wow, indeed. (Game one Recap).
EDIT NOTE: I had TBay on the brain when thinking of the Caps, thus the reason for the
LV leads in this best of seven series, 1 to 0.
If you watched part or all of game one, you know what I mean. If you didn't, you can watch tonight's game 2, with Washington playing in LV and find out if the NHL is to your liking. You won't be disappointed. (See here for the listing of tonight's game).
Monday's game had its share of player fights, pucks bouncing off both the goalie posts and bars, in what normally woulda/ shoulda been a goal, pucks that crossed the red line that really redefines long shot and both teams' goalies (Caps' Braden Holtby, and LV's Marc-Andre-Fleury) making saves that, really, seemed to reach far beyond anything capable of human anatomy and physiology --- it was edge of your seat hockey. Stats and real-time references Here.
More Caps - LV Game 1 Highlights Here, on YTube. (link working as of publishing).
At the most, six games remain. At the worst, 3 games remain. I'll mark it that I think this series will go six games. (Note to self Remember this, Dave).
My prediction on Monday's game:
Actual Final Score:
Caps 4; LV 6
Yep, it was that kind of game, 1-0; then 1-1; then 2-1; then 2-2...and so one, one team up, the other would tie. Incredible, fantastic hockey with passes and plays that were just so intense and sports poetry in motion. Come...come to the NHL...Come. (I have no vested interest in the NHL so no sales pitch here.)
It's just one of the most physically, active/action (constantly moving) sports to watch, all full time action, like rugby and soccer. And then - - and then...you add...this round chunk of vulcanized rubber,- - and add...ice...and the bounces and rolls and dings off the post or a player's skates of the puck defies any logical geographical points.
The NHL is not slow and deliberate NFL, MLB or the NBA where, really, only the last two minutes of any NBA game is what anyone needs to see.
Game 2 is tonight, at 8PM EST on NBCSN, CBC, SN, TVAS. And again, here.
At publishing time, Odds Sharks predicts a final score of: Caps 2.8; LV 2.5
My pick:
EDIT FIX: meant Caps, not TBay:
Caps 4; LV 2
I know I get visitors from Canada, some from LV and also eastern U.S; and I'm kinda thinking 😀there are a few hockey fans, so leave a comment with your thoughts, predictions, takes, whatever.
"Smooth...real smooth."
( Disclaimer )
- - -
Very poorly proofread prior to publishing 5/30/2018
Fixed errors replacing TBay when I meant Caps.
Monday, May 28, 2018
Stanley Cup Game One; Capitals vs LV
Game One for the Stanley Cup begins at 8PM EST tonight. Vegas hosts games one and two.
Odds Sharks predicts a final score of: Caps 2.7; LV 2.6
My pick:
Caps 2; LV 0
Enjoy.
Odds Sharks predicts a final score of: Caps 2.7; LV 2.6
My pick:
Caps 2; LV 0
Enjoy.
( Disclaimer )
Sunday, May 27, 2018
NHL Game 7 - Caps Shut Out TBay 4 to 0;
Washington vs Vegas for The Stanley Cup
On Wednesday night May 23, The Caps shut out TBay, as they did in game 6, taking the series 4 - 3.
I'd predicted TBay winning 3 to 2 over the Caps
Actual Final Score: TBay 0; Caps 4
First, how would you like feel a puck slam into the back of your neck? Because that's what happened to the Caps' Devante Smith-Pelly, (# 25), not quite seven minutes into the start of the game. Check out the video...FOUCH!
He left the ice, headed for the locker room, returned later in the game, played a short while and then sat the rest of the game out. He made it onto the ice for the post-game player handshake line-up. And the shot by TBay's McDonagh (#27) wasn't intentional or meant to crack Smith-Pelly in the neck. McDonagh's shot was intended as a shot on goal. I don't think Smith-Pelly wanted this to happen either, hoping rather to deflect the shot using his back or shoulder, which at least have some padding. I hope there's no permanent injury.
The game was intense, despite the score. It didn't begin well for TBay. Caps' Alex Ovechkin nailed one into TBay's net at nearly the outset of the game; putting the Caps up 1 to 0 after the opening minute and two seconds.
The Caps went up 2 to 0 at the 11:01 mark of period two when Andre Burakovsky scored his first goal in the playoffs. About 8 minutes later, Burakovsky got his second goal at the 3:29 mark, with the Caps ahead 3 to 0 at the end of P2.
Period 3 began with TBay down 0 to 3. My belief is that any NHL team can come back from a 0 - 3 deficit in the third period, but it must be done quickly. Once tied, try like heck for that 4th goal, but if not, go into overtime tied and fight for the win.
TBay could not catch a break that would go their way. But more than catching a break, and despite having had many "almosts" to score, whatever it takes to turn "almosts" into reality...TBay just didn't have it in them.
TBay pulled goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy with slightly less than 4 minutes remaining and Caps' Nicklas Backstrom nailed one into the empty net putting the Caps at 4; TBay 0. Good night, Tampa Bay.
The game also featured a major fisticuff between Caps' Tom Wilson and TBay's Braydon Coburn. Here's a link to videos of their brawl.
Game one in a best of seven series for The Stanley Cup begins tomorrow night with Washington vs LV with games one and two in LV.
I'd predicted TBay winning 3 to 2 over the Caps
Actual Final Score: TBay 0; Caps 4
First, how would you like feel a puck slam into the back of your neck? Because that's what happened to the Caps' Devante Smith-Pelly, (# 25), not quite seven minutes into the start of the game. Check out the video...FOUCH!
Fair Use Section 107 U.S. Copyright Code
He left the ice, headed for the locker room, returned later in the game, played a short while and then sat the rest of the game out. He made it onto the ice for the post-game player handshake line-up. And the shot by TBay's McDonagh (#27) wasn't intentional or meant to crack Smith-Pelly in the neck. McDonagh's shot was intended as a shot on goal. I don't think Smith-Pelly wanted this to happen either, hoping rather to deflect the shot using his back or shoulder, which at least have some padding. I hope there's no permanent injury.
The game was intense, despite the score. It didn't begin well for TBay. Caps' Alex Ovechkin nailed one into TBay's net at nearly the outset of the game; putting the Caps up 1 to 0 after the opening minute and two seconds.
The Caps went up 2 to 0 at the 11:01 mark of period two when Andre Burakovsky scored his first goal in the playoffs. About 8 minutes later, Burakovsky got his second goal at the 3:29 mark, with the Caps ahead 3 to 0 at the end of P2.
Period 3 began with TBay down 0 to 3. My belief is that any NHL team can come back from a 0 - 3 deficit in the third period, but it must be done quickly. Once tied, try like heck for that 4th goal, but if not, go into overtime tied and fight for the win.
TBay could not catch a break that would go their way. But more than catching a break, and despite having had many "almosts" to score, whatever it takes to turn "almosts" into reality...TBay just didn't have it in them.
TBay pulled goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy with slightly less than 4 minutes remaining and Caps' Nicklas Backstrom nailed one into the empty net putting the Caps at 4; TBay 0. Good night, Tampa Bay.
The game also featured a major fisticuff between Caps' Tom Wilson and TBay's Braydon Coburn. Here's a link to videos of their brawl.
Game one in a best of seven series for The Stanley Cup begins tomorrow night with Washington vs LV with games one and two in LV.
Wednesday, May 23, 2018
NHL Game 6 Caps Shut Out TBay 3 - 0;
NHL Wednesday May 23: FINAL Game 7 Caps vs TBay;
NFL Anthem Protest Policy: Locker Room Only
My pick for Monday night's game 6:
TBay 3; Caps 4
Actual Final Score:
TBay 0; Caps 3
This season's playoffs have been the best and most memorable games I've watched in years. For those of you who've left the NFL, you could not find a better time to give the NHL a chance.
>> EDIT: New NFL Anthem Protest policy; confined to locker room; Standing required; Teams face penalties. <<
The TBay - Caps series is 3 - 3 and tonight is the big, final game 7.
Monday night's game 6 was scoreless until 4:48 remaining in the second period when T.J. Oshie nailed the first goal putting the Caps up by one. This was Oshie's first goal in this series.
Period 3 saw TBay playing hard, desperately wanting to get on the scoreboard, but the Caps played almost flawlessly, denying the Lightning any opportunity of getting the puck past Caps' goalie Braden Holtby in what is his first shut-out game since April, 2017.
Standing at 6' 3", TBay's goalie, Andrei Vasilevskiy is a big guy and he has the ability to stretch like Gumby. He made some incredible saves but just couldn't stop the Caps determination in winning this game.
At the 9:58 mark in P3, Caps' Devante Smith-Pelly nailed the second goal. Still enough time for TBay to get two goals and even the score and strive for an OT. But that didn't happen. Instead, enter Oshie scoring again, with less than one and a half minutes remaining in the game, putting the Caps up 3 to 0.
With that final 90 seconds remaining, shot stats taken tallied TBay 21 and Caps 33. This is a big discrepancy - not the only one in determining who wins and who doesn't, one doesn't necessarily dictate the other - but it's a significant difference.
If TBay wants to win tonight, they have to fire out more shots. They need to return to what they can certainly do, but sometimes lose focus of, controlling puck possession, of which they didn't do nearly enough in Monday's game. When they did, they did it well - they just couldn't, or manage to, sustain possession for sufficient amounts of time. If TBay can bring this talent back to the surface tonight, they will win.
If you watched Monday's game, then you witnessed Caps' Alex Ovechkin wrist shots that must clock in at near 100 mph. The guy is amazing. A wrist shot, mind you - SNAP - and the puck momentarily becomes invisible to the naked eye. He makes the puck soar. Another reason to watch tonight's game.
Tonight, Game 7, at 8PM EST and playing on TBay home ice.
The winner tonight plays Vegas for The Stanley Cup.
Odds Sharks predicts a final score of Caps 3.7; TBay 1.7
My pick:
If there's going to be an OT game, I'd think tonight will be the night, but I'm not going to make that part of my prediction.
TBay 3; Caps 2
( Disclaimer )
TBay 3; Caps 4
Actual Final Score:
TBay 0; Caps 3
This season's playoffs have been the best and most memorable games I've watched in years. For those of you who've left the NFL, you could not find a better time to give the NHL a chance.
>> EDIT: New NFL Anthem Protest policy; confined to locker room; Standing required; Teams face penalties. <<
The TBay - Caps series is 3 - 3 and tonight is the big, final game 7.
Monday night's game 6 was scoreless until 4:48 remaining in the second period when T.J. Oshie nailed the first goal putting the Caps up by one. This was Oshie's first goal in this series.
Period 3 saw TBay playing hard, desperately wanting to get on the scoreboard, but the Caps played almost flawlessly, denying the Lightning any opportunity of getting the puck past Caps' goalie Braden Holtby in what is his first shut-out game since April, 2017.
Standing at 6' 3", TBay's goalie, Andrei Vasilevskiy is a big guy and he has the ability to stretch like Gumby. He made some incredible saves but just couldn't stop the Caps determination in winning this game.
At the 9:58 mark in P3, Caps' Devante Smith-Pelly nailed the second goal. Still enough time for TBay to get two goals and even the score and strive for an OT. But that didn't happen. Instead, enter Oshie scoring again, with less than one and a half minutes remaining in the game, putting the Caps up 3 to 0.
With that final 90 seconds remaining, shot stats taken tallied TBay 21 and Caps 33. This is a big discrepancy - not the only one in determining who wins and who doesn't, one doesn't necessarily dictate the other - but it's a significant difference.
If TBay wants to win tonight, they have to fire out more shots. They need to return to what they can certainly do, but sometimes lose focus of, controlling puck possession, of which they didn't do nearly enough in Monday's game. When they did, they did it well - they just couldn't, or manage to, sustain possession for sufficient amounts of time. If TBay can bring this talent back to the surface tonight, they will win.
If you watched Monday's game, then you witnessed Caps' Alex Ovechkin wrist shots that must clock in at near 100 mph. The guy is amazing. A wrist shot, mind you - SNAP - and the puck momentarily becomes invisible to the naked eye. He makes the puck soar. Another reason to watch tonight's game.
Tonight, Game 7, at 8PM EST and playing on TBay home ice.
The winner tonight plays Vegas for The Stanley Cup.
Odds Sharks predicts a final score of Caps 3.7; TBay 1.7
My pick:
If there's going to be an OT game, I'd think tonight will be the night, but I'm not going to make that part of my prediction.
TBay 3; Caps 2
( Disclaimer )
Monday, May 21, 2018
Vegas Beats Jets;
NHL Monday, May 21
My pick in last night's game:
Jets 3; LV 1
Actual Final Score:
Jets 1; LV 2
Vegas won game 5 putting the Jets on the tarmac until next season. The Knights now poised to play for the Stanley Cup against the winner of the Tampa Bay - Washington Capitals series.
Game 6 is tonight with TBay playing at Washington, TBay leading this series by 3 - 2.
Odds Sharks predicts TBay over the Caps, 2.7 to 2.6.
I wrote yesterday that I think this series will go the full seven games, so...even though I think TBay is likely to win tonight, I have to go with predicting a Caps win, right? Otherwise, my words are hypocrisy, and I can't have that. 😲
Game 6 starts at 8PM EST.
My pick:
Caps 4; TBay 3
( Disclaimer )
Jets 3; LV 1
Actual Final Score:
Jets 1; LV 2
Vegas won game 5 putting the Jets on the tarmac until next season. The Knights now poised to play for the Stanley Cup against the winner of the Tampa Bay - Washington Capitals series.
Game 6 is tonight with TBay playing at Washington, TBay leading this series by 3 - 2.
Odds Sharks predicts TBay over the Caps, 2.7 to 2.6.
I wrote yesterday that I think this series will go the full seven games, so...even though I think TBay is likely to win tonight, I have to go with predicting a Caps win, right? Otherwise, my words are hypocrisy, and I can't have that. 😲
Game 6 starts at 8PM EST.
My pick:
Caps 4; TBay 3
( Disclaimer )
Sunday, May 20, 2018
Caps Zapped By Lightning;
NHL Sunday, May 20
My prediction on last night's TBay - Caps game:
TBay 3; Caps 2 in OT
Actual Final Score:
TBay 3; Caps 2
Well, I had the score right, but...not the OT.
TBay's win last night gives them the edge in the series, 3 - 2.
Game 6 is Monday, TBay playing in Washington. Did I predict this series will go the full seven games? I forget - I'll say it will.
Today, a crucial Game 5 with LV playing in Winnipeg, this series is LV 3; Jets 1.
Can LV close it down today and move into the Stanley Cup bracket, awaiting the series winner of either the Caps or TBay?
Odds Sharks predicts today's game: LV 4.0; Jets 1.4
I don't see the Jets going out this easily, this early.
My pick:
Jets 3; LV 1
Game time 3PM EST on regular/broadcast NBC.
( Disclaimer )
TBay 3; Caps 2 in OT
Actual Final Score:
TBay 3; Caps 2
Well, I had the score right, but...not the OT.
TBay's win last night gives them the edge in the series, 3 - 2.
Game 6 is Monday, TBay playing in Washington. Did I predict this series will go the full seven games? I forget - I'll say it will.
Today, a crucial Game 5 with LV playing in Winnipeg, this series is LV 3; Jets 1.
Can LV close it down today and move into the Stanley Cup bracket, awaiting the series winner of either the Caps or TBay?
Odds Sharks predicts today's game: LV 4.0; Jets 1.4
I don't see the Jets going out this easily, this early.
My pick:
Jets 3; LV 1
Game time 3PM EST on regular/broadcast NBC.
( Disclaimer )
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