ATD2010 Jim Robson 1st round: Smith's Falls Fusiliers (2) vs. California Seals (7)
- Thread starter VanIslander
- Start date
VanIslander
A 19-year ATDer on HfBoards
Smith's Falls Fusiliers
PP1: S.Howe - Trottier - Stewart - Leetch - Lutchenko
PP2: Pitre - Gottselig - Gilbert - Ozolinsh - L.Conacher
PK1: Pulford - Curry - Tsygankov - L.Conacher
PK2: Murray - Gottselig - St. Laurent - Leetch
vs.
California Golden Seals
PP1: Kharlamov - Beliveau - Gartner - Bentley - Sjoberg
PP2: Mogilny - Hawerchuk - Sloan - Svedberg - Schneider
PK1: Linseman - Bentley - Langway - Talbot
PK2: Kurtenbach - Pronovost - Horner - Sjoberg
VanIslander
A 19-year ATDer on HfBoards
I'll do some match-up analysis and discussion tomorrow.
All I'll say for now is: facing Beliveau I'm real glad my team's got Trottier! A titanic struggle.
All I'll say for now is: facing Beliveau I'm real glad my team's got Trottier! A titanic struggle.
Velociraptor
Registered User
Velociraptor
Registered User
My analysis will be in parts, the Juno Awards are in St. John's tonight, and I am part of organizing the event so I will be inactive for the most of today.
CALIFORNIA GOLDEN SEALS
For my inaugural season in the All-Time Draft, I think I did well in some areas, and average in others. I was given much assistance from veteran posters here, and it will lead to my final result in this draft, they were very helpful at times and made me appreciate the game's past more than I did prior to joining. I learned so much about some of the best players to ever participate in hockey, and why they were such a beneficial contribution to their teams overall success. So I thank all 29 other managers for making this event such a special and fun process, I don't need to think twice about returning for ATD 13.
One thing I regret not doing in this league is writing biographies for the players I drafted, it has been a busy few months with school, family, friends, work and organization leading up to St. John's hosting the Juno's. I'll definitely work towards having them for the next draft.
Furthermore, I will begin the premier to my analysis on why I think that the California Golden Seals will make this an obstacle-plagued journey for the second-seeded Smith Falls Fusiliers.
I'll start with my first line:
My first line is definitely a line amassed of perennial all-stars. My first round selection Jean Beliveau, played a crucial part in the success of the Montreal Canadiens in the 50's and 60's. Beliveau was one of the better players in his time, a big presence who wasn't afraid of fighting his own battles, he had a nose for the net and was one of the better scorers the game has seen since it's commencement in 1909. Beliveau was a huge deal in Montreal, he played 16 seasons, 10 of which he was a Stanley Cup Winner. Beliveau comes with nearly enough experience to account for an entire roster, he is a legend that everyone loved to watch, his persistence and winning attitude made him so much better than he already was, he was the best player available player that I could build around. Arguably a top-10 player all time, any day.
On his wing is a man named Valery Kharlamov, a remarkable hockey player who was a national hero in his native Russia. He was one of the big guns on the Soviets during the 1972 Summit Series between Canada and Russia. He was tiny hockey player, but his speed made people shiver
Kharlamov became a bedlam among children and spectators from Canada during the Summit Series, they quickly fell in love with how Kharlamov played hockey, his unbelievable style left questions unanswered. The high-flying winger did come with a minor consequence though, he was extremely fragile and would need a reinforcement to ensure he stayed in one piece. With tough customers such as Lionel Conacher and Bob Pulford on the Fusiliers roster, Kharlamov would need protection (A topic to be re-discussed on my analysis on defense.) Regardless, Kharlamov is one of the best forwards to ever grace the ice, and his mysterious game of hockey still dazzles fans to this day. He is one of two Soviet trained Hall of Fame members along with goaltender Vladislav Tretiak.
To finish the first line, comes right winger Tod Sloan. Initially I wanted Mike Gartner to fill the 1st-line position. But this line required toughness with the fragile Kharlamov and the physically-independent Jean Beliveau. Sloan had toughness and offensive potential. The thing is, this line is talented if the winger is Mike Gartner, Tod Sloan or even Rich Pilon. So I wasn't too worried about replacing Gartner with a hard-knock such as Sloan. Sloan was a creative winger who relied on quick, shifty movement to get the puck into dangerous scoring positions. He was unique to say the least, so unique that not everyone new what to make of him and his unorthodox style of play in those days. He thrived on the adrenaline that came with his title, a gritty, enforcing two-way forward. Although only 5'10, he'd lay a bone-crushing hit or a bruising on any player that got in his way, or had serious business with him.
This first line provides all the essentials to an all-time draft first line, speed, toughness, scoring, finish, acumen and fantastic chemistry between the three. This should be a colossal matchup none the less, and I wish the Fusiliers luck in shutting down this line of authentic superstars.
I will consider and answer any questions you have regarding my first line.
Second line:
The second line is also assembled of three bona fide hockey players, starting with Dale Hawerchuk. A man who was equipped with blazing speed, and a fantastic shot, he took crucial initiative and also captained a struggling Winnipeg Jets through the years and would produce 100 point seasons with mediocre line-mates. He was the inspiration for every player who entered and left the organization every year. He was a fan favorite and never let them down independently. But the team could never assemble a championship winning team, which marks Hawerchuk as one of the best players ever that has never won a Stanley Cup. His playmaking ability, and nose for the net makes him a solid foundation to this second line.
On his left is Doug Bentley, a one-time Art Ross winner with 77 points in 50 games during the 1943-1944 season with the Chicago Blackhawks. One of the better special teams specialists to ever play the game, Bentley was a huge factor to the Blackhawks success during the forties. No Stanley Cups were won in his era, but he was a fast skater who dominated on the penalty kill and powerplay, whether it was scoring goals, playing phenomenal defensive hockey or clearing the puck, Bentley was one of the best. He played on his brother Max Bentley's wing for years, so he should have no problems on Hawerchuk's wing.
To complete the second line is potentially the fastest player to ever play the game of hockey, Mike Gartner. His ultimate velocity left the opposing players in the dust as he'd already have scored or set up a goal-scoring play. Gartner's 8 seasons in Washington highlighted his prime, as he was on the top of team scoring for a grand majority of his tenure in Washington. Successful pit stops in Minnesota, New York and Toronto proved he was one of the best players of his time. Gartner even had some size at 6'1" and 190 lbs, but wasn't physical at all in the latter part of his career. But, in junior and leading up to his final days in Washington he would amass near triple digits in penalty minutes, he would rarely drop the gloves, but play a somewhat physical game in his early days.
With the right players on the blue line, this line can be extremely successful when it needs to be. They can score goals, use speed and use playmaking abilities to reconcile strong, effective scoring chances.
More to come later, probably tomorrow.
CALIFORNIA GOLDEN SEALS
For my inaugural season in the All-Time Draft, I think I did well in some areas, and average in others. I was given much assistance from veteran posters here, and it will lead to my final result in this draft, they were very helpful at times and made me appreciate the game's past more than I did prior to joining. I learned so much about some of the best players to ever participate in hockey, and why they were such a beneficial contribution to their teams overall success. So I thank all 29 other managers for making this event such a special and fun process, I don't need to think twice about returning for ATD 13.
One thing I regret not doing in this league is writing biographies for the players I drafted, it has been a busy few months with school, family, friends, work and organization leading up to St. John's hosting the Juno's. I'll definitely work towards having them for the next draft.
Furthermore, I will begin the premier to my analysis on why I think that the California Golden Seals will make this an obstacle-plagued journey for the second-seeded Smith Falls Fusiliers.
I'll start with my first line:
My first line is definitely a line amassed of perennial all-stars. My first round selection Jean Beliveau, played a crucial part in the success of the Montreal Canadiens in the 50's and 60's. Beliveau was one of the better players in his time, a big presence who wasn't afraid of fighting his own battles, he had a nose for the net and was one of the better scorers the game has seen since it's commencement in 1909. Beliveau was a huge deal in Montreal, he played 16 seasons, 10 of which he was a Stanley Cup Winner. Beliveau comes with nearly enough experience to account for an entire roster, he is a legend that everyone loved to watch, his persistence and winning attitude made him so much better than he already was, he was the best player available player that I could build around. Arguably a top-10 player all time, any day.
On his wing is a man named Valery Kharlamov, a remarkable hockey player who was a national hero in his native Russia. He was one of the big guns on the Soviets during the 1972 Summit Series between Canada and Russia. He was tiny hockey player, but his speed made people shiver
Harry Sinden on Kharlamov's speed said:
Kharlamov became a bedlam among children and spectators from Canada during the Summit Series, they quickly fell in love with how Kharlamov played hockey, his unbelievable style left questions unanswered. The high-flying winger did come with a minor consequence though, he was extremely fragile and would need a reinforcement to ensure he stayed in one piece. With tough customers such as Lionel Conacher and Bob Pulford on the Fusiliers roster, Kharlamov would need protection (A topic to be re-discussed on my analysis on defense.) Regardless, Kharlamov is one of the best forwards to ever grace the ice, and his mysterious game of hockey still dazzles fans to this day. He is one of two Soviet trained Hall of Fame members along with goaltender Vladislav Tretiak.
To finish the first line, comes right winger Tod Sloan. Initially I wanted Mike Gartner to fill the 1st-line position. But this line required toughness with the fragile Kharlamov and the physically-independent Jean Beliveau. Sloan had toughness and offensive potential. The thing is, this line is talented if the winger is Mike Gartner, Tod Sloan or even Rich Pilon. So I wasn't too worried about replacing Gartner with a hard-knock such as Sloan. Sloan was a creative winger who relied on quick, shifty movement to get the puck into dangerous scoring positions. He was unique to say the least, so unique that not everyone new what to make of him and his unorthodox style of play in those days. He thrived on the adrenaline that came with his title, a gritty, enforcing two-way forward. Although only 5'10, he'd lay a bone-crushing hit or a bruising on any player that got in his way, or had serious business with him.
This first line provides all the essentials to an all-time draft first line, speed, toughness, scoring, finish, acumen and fantastic chemistry between the three. This should be a colossal matchup none the less, and I wish the Fusiliers luck in shutting down this line of authentic superstars.
I will consider and answer any questions you have regarding my first line.
Second line:
The second line is also assembled of three bona fide hockey players, starting with Dale Hawerchuk. A man who was equipped with blazing speed, and a fantastic shot, he took crucial initiative and also captained a struggling Winnipeg Jets through the years and would produce 100 point seasons with mediocre line-mates. He was the inspiration for every player who entered and left the organization every year. He was a fan favorite and never let them down independently. But the team could never assemble a championship winning team, which marks Hawerchuk as one of the best players ever that has never won a Stanley Cup. His playmaking ability, and nose for the net makes him a solid foundation to this second line.
On his left is Doug Bentley, a one-time Art Ross winner with 77 points in 50 games during the 1943-1944 season with the Chicago Blackhawks. One of the better special teams specialists to ever play the game, Bentley was a huge factor to the Blackhawks success during the forties. No Stanley Cups were won in his era, but he was a fast skater who dominated on the penalty kill and powerplay, whether it was scoring goals, playing phenomenal defensive hockey or clearing the puck, Bentley was one of the best. He played on his brother Max Bentley's wing for years, so he should have no problems on Hawerchuk's wing.
To complete the second line is potentially the fastest player to ever play the game of hockey, Mike Gartner. His ultimate velocity left the opposing players in the dust as he'd already have scored or set up a goal-scoring play. Gartner's 8 seasons in Washington highlighted his prime, as he was on the top of team scoring for a grand majority of his tenure in Washington. Successful pit stops in Minnesota, New York and Toronto proved he was one of the best players of his time. Gartner even had some size at 6'1" and 190 lbs, but wasn't physical at all in the latter part of his career. But, in junior and leading up to his final days in Washington he would amass near triple digits in penalty minutes, he would rarely drop the gloves, but play a somewhat physical game in his early days.
With the right players on the blue line, this line can be extremely successful when it needs to be. They can score goals, use speed and use playmaking abilities to reconcile strong, effective scoring chances.
More to come later, probably tomorrow.
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seventieslord
Student Of The Game
Just one thing. I recall a few drafts ago, GBC tried to call Sloan a defensive forward and justified it by saying "everyone was good defensively back then". Sloan was sent back to the minors early in his career for being bad defensively, then worked his way back. Not much is said about how good he was when he returned, but calling him a "defensive forward" is probably a real stretch.
Velociraptor
Registered User
Thanks seventies, I'll do some research and ask some relatives who recognized the style of play that Sloan demonstrated in his prime.
markrander87
Registered User
- Jan 22, 2010
- 4,216
- 61
I couldn't of said this better myself. I know ive come across brash and rude, but I do as well truly appreciate all the hard work you guys but into this, and I've learned more about the history of hockey and all the true legends of the game then I thought was ever imaginable.
This ATD may seem stupid or useless to some people, but I have to say that it's been a great crutch for me the past couple weeks. I've just been through a terrible break-up that has been weighing on my mind constantly, and I can go on here and get lost in all the information presented by such great GM's. Win or lose my series ive already gotten more out of this than one could imagine
Velociraptor
Registered User
To continue my analysis I'll start with my third line, also to any who think I am adding a lot of bulk to each players description is because I didn't write biographies. You may know enough about most of the players, but just reminding the voting committee on why this team should win the series.
The third line consists of two scoring forwards and a power forward who keeps his linemates first on the protection priority.
Orland Kurtenbach, the first captain of the Vancouver Canucks. Being a huge Canucks fan for 15 years, he is a very memorable historical figure to me, A no-nonsense guy who possessed excellent ability and became a symbol of desire and dedication. Not a spectacularly offensive player, but one of the most dedicated to ever play the game and he played hard every night and his approach to the game was perfect.
Kurtenbach is an extremely valuable piece to my team as he will look out for any player of the team.
Brian Bellows on his left, a Stanley Cup champion and a consistent 70+ point scorer for the vast majority of his prime. Bellows was an all-star various time and competed in many prestigious events linked with hockey. Bellows had one 55 goal season, and 99 points in Minnesota, one that highlighted his prime, he played the best of hockey in his nine-year tenure in "the State of Hockey".
to complete the third line, is Russian Alexander Mogilny. As a young man in the Soviet Union, Mogilny played on a line with Sergei Fedorov and Pavel Bure, titled as one of the most lethal combinations in world history. Mogilny often stood out as a hockey player, with a great skill-set, lightning quick speed, fantastic hands and a lethal shot with maximum precision that scored him 473 goals with four different teams. He won a Stanley Cup with the Devils in 2000, shortly after he re-injured his leg, a brutal injury he suffered years before. This helped make the decision that Mogilny was forced into retirement. He was an unreal hockey player who came onto the ice and would score multiple goals most nights.
The fourth and final line are three tough men, who all have offensive touch.
Kenny Linseman, who earned the title "The Rat' in his days. Used to get under every players skin he came in contact with. One year, Linseman recorded 92 points along with 275 penalty minutes with the Philadelphia Flyers. Wherever he was, Linseman would wreak havoc, but would occasionally take a break and focus offensively, which worked out for him very well as he retired with 807 points in 860 games. For a guy who spent a lot of time in the sin bin, he almost maintained a point-per-game average throughout his career. Pretty successful grinder if you ask me.
Shayne Corson, another notorious henchman who played in the NHL during the 80's and 90's. Corson would often have his gloves off, chirping from across the bench or starting trouble on the ice. In Corson's illustrious 18-year career, he went 3 seasons without having 100 or more penalty minutes or more, the three he didn't hit the milestone, were shortened due to injury. Corson was one of the bigger dirtbags in his day, and managed to still develop into a mean, gritty power forward who put forth a few good season, point wise.
To round out the top 12 is Jean Pronovost.
Jean Pronovost was the best player in Pittsburgh along with Syl Apps for the latter part of the 60's and the main core of the 70's. Pronovost wasn't a fighter per say, but he liked to throw his body around a fair bit. He'd be playing his position, and if he could find an opportunity to defile someone on the ice, he was all for it. He wasn't a big guy, but he still loved to cause a riot on the ice. One 52 goal, 104 point season was the climax of his career, he was traded to the Atlanta Flames in 1978 and had 2 successful years there, and eventually retired.
Vyacheslav Bykov, is a very underrated hockey player. The Russian dynamo had the speed of a bullet. He spent 10 years in the Soviet Union, producing average numbers. The Quebec Nordiques drafted the superstar in 1989, However he opted not to play in North America. He left Russia in 1990 after receiving an offer from Fribourg in Switzerland, and his career only got better. Bykov tore it up in Switzerland, he adapted just fine to the game change as he brought his Russian tactics to the ice in front of the Swiss, and made magic with it. It's too bad Bykov never made his way to the NHL, because he would've made a remarkable player with so much skill. Bykov was also a crucial member of several podium finishing teams with the Soviet Union at the World Championships from 1983 to 1990.
Defense/Goaltender/Coaching/Overall analysis to come later tonight.
The third line consists of two scoring forwards and a power forward who keeps his linemates first on the protection priority.
Orland Kurtenbach, the first captain of the Vancouver Canucks. Being a huge Canucks fan for 15 years, he is a very memorable historical figure to me, A no-nonsense guy who possessed excellent ability and became a symbol of desire and dedication. Not a spectacularly offensive player, but one of the most dedicated to ever play the game and he played hard every night and his approach to the game was perfect.
Hal Laycoe said:
Kurtenbach is an extremely valuable piece to my team as he will look out for any player of the team.
Brian Bellows on his left, a Stanley Cup champion and a consistent 70+ point scorer for the vast majority of his prime. Bellows was an all-star various time and competed in many prestigious events linked with hockey. Bellows had one 55 goal season, and 99 points in Minnesota, one that highlighted his prime, he played the best of hockey in his nine-year tenure in "the State of Hockey".
to complete the third line, is Russian Alexander Mogilny. As a young man in the Soviet Union, Mogilny played on a line with Sergei Fedorov and Pavel Bure, titled as one of the most lethal combinations in world history. Mogilny often stood out as a hockey player, with a great skill-set, lightning quick speed, fantastic hands and a lethal shot with maximum precision that scored him 473 goals with four different teams. He won a Stanley Cup with the Devils in 2000, shortly after he re-injured his leg, a brutal injury he suffered years before. This helped make the decision that Mogilny was forced into retirement. He was an unreal hockey player who came onto the ice and would score multiple goals most nights.
The fourth and final line are three tough men, who all have offensive touch.
Kenny Linseman, who earned the title "The Rat' in his days. Used to get under every players skin he came in contact with. One year, Linseman recorded 92 points along with 275 penalty minutes with the Philadelphia Flyers. Wherever he was, Linseman would wreak havoc, but would occasionally take a break and focus offensively, which worked out for him very well as he retired with 807 points in 860 games. For a guy who spent a lot of time in the sin bin, he almost maintained a point-per-game average throughout his career. Pretty successful grinder if you ask me.
Shayne Corson, another notorious henchman who played in the NHL during the 80's and 90's. Corson would often have his gloves off, chirping from across the bench or starting trouble on the ice. In Corson's illustrious 18-year career, he went 3 seasons without having 100 or more penalty minutes or more, the three he didn't hit the milestone, were shortened due to injury. Corson was one of the bigger dirtbags in his day, and managed to still develop into a mean, gritty power forward who put forth a few good season, point wise.
To round out the top 12 is Jean Pronovost.
Jean Pronovost was the best player in Pittsburgh along with Syl Apps for the latter part of the 60's and the main core of the 70's. Pronovost wasn't a fighter per say, but he liked to throw his body around a fair bit. He'd be playing his position, and if he could find an opportunity to defile someone on the ice, he was all for it. He wasn't a big guy, but he still loved to cause a riot on the ice. One 52 goal, 104 point season was the climax of his career, he was traded to the Atlanta Flames in 1978 and had 2 successful years there, and eventually retired.
Vyacheslav Bykov, is a very underrated hockey player. The Russian dynamo had the speed of a bullet. He spent 10 years in the Soviet Union, producing average numbers. The Quebec Nordiques drafted the superstar in 1989, However he opted not to play in North America. He left Russia in 1990 after receiving an offer from Fribourg in Switzerland, and his career only got better. Bykov tore it up in Switzerland, he adapted just fine to the game change as he brought his Russian tactics to the ice in front of the Swiss, and made magic with it. It's too bad Bykov never made his way to the NHL, because he would've made a remarkable player with so much skill. Bykov was also a crucial member of several podium finishing teams with the Soviet Union at the World Championships from 1983 to 1990.
Defense/Goaltender/Coaching/Overall analysis to come later tonight.
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Velociraptor
Registered User
I'll begin the second half by starting with my blue line.
Defense analysis:
Defense is an extremely crucial component in hockey, so it was definitely something I put a lot of time into developing.
The first, and most important member of the Golden Seals defense is Rod Langway.
Taiwanese-born Rod Langway joined hockey at age 13 once he relocated to Massachusetts, he had size at 6'3" and 215, he also played football as a quarterback, but was recruited to UNH as a hockey player. Langway was one tough, tough man, he would be a fast moving stone pillar who absolutely flattened anyone who dared to cross the line to the Republic of Langway, the Capitals end zone. He had a huge success rate for stopping anyone who would come in on a rush. In his first two seasons in the nation's capital, Langway won two consecutive Norris Trophies as the league's best defenseman recording 30+ points each year, but mainly recognized for his punishing, dominating defensive game. By contrast, Langway was a traditional defender whose shot was likened to a "cool summer breeze". Langway will man the penalty kill as that is his forte, but will watch from the sidelines during the power play, Langway was good offensively, but not nearly as good as he is defensively, he is mostly remembered as a impenetrable force.
Paired up with Langway is Jean-Guy Talbot, a seven-time cup winner with the Montreal Canadiens. He is very similar to Langway, minus the hulking frame. Talbot is only a pint-sized fireball at 5'10" and 170 pounds. His speed for a defenseman was unique, he was up to par with the speed of some of the forwards on the Canadiens in those days. Talbot was solid defensively, he would stand tough and play like he was 6'4 instead of 5'10. He showed forwards who was boss on the ice and didn't crack under pressure. He was a solid penalty killer as well, often seen making shifty maneuvers to steal the puck from others and fire it down the ice before any scoring chances could be attempted.
My second pair consists of a power play specialist, and possibly one of the meanest men to ever play the game of hockey.
I'll start with Lars-Erik Sjoberg, the Winnipeg's first face of the franchise, the Swedish import demonstrated a fabulous offensive game from a defenseman with an accurate, hard shot that hit the net every time. He would often be seen strategically handling the puck in the opposite end trying to locate his wingers so they could set up a play with high success. He was a very smart hockey player who was often nicknamed "The Professor" for his wise leadings and keen hockey sense. He also captained his native Sweden in the 1976 Canada Cup.
On Sjoberg's right is George "Red" Horner. A ruthless defenseman who crushed bodies as they entered the zone or stuck to the boards. Horner was a bigger defenseman in his time, he also showed offensive skills, but didn't need them when he came around as a relentless defender who showed no mercy at all when he came to play hockey. Because of Valeri Kharlamov's fragility, Horner will be on the ice whenever Kharlamov is during even strength, the Golden Seals can't stress how important it is for Kharlamov to always have a bodyguard on the ice is. He in many ways is one of our most valuable players and can't risk him suffering a fatal or brutal injury as he is only small.
The final pairing begins with Behn Wilson, a strong defenseman who played an excellent two-way game. Had a shot that often went in or created defensive chaos in front of the net, which led to a goal. He also liked to hit and cause trouble, he would find himself in the penalty box frequently, he sometimes took stupid penalties, but mostly would be punished for destroying the opposition in a fight. Wilson will share games with Mathieu Schneider, another powerplay specialist. A less defensive, but more offensive version of Wilson, Schneider had a few 20-goal seasons and would always put forth a good effort on the special teams. He was touted as a bit of a locker room cancer, but will easily overcome that flaw once he finds his way into the organization.
And finally, we have Lennart "Lill-Strimma" Svedberg, an unheard of player in North America I have assembled a biography separately for him: http://hfboards.com/showpost.php?p=24912777&postcount=152
Lill-Strimma was predominate on the power play and offensively during even strength, but an absolute stranger to defending in his own end. Which is why he'll only be on the power play and play limited minutes during even strength tight situations late in games.
Goaltending:
Eddie Belfour turned out to be an amazing goaltender from someone who was never drafted. Belfour won the Calder Memorial for Rookie of the year, two Vezina trophies as best goaltender and a Stanley Cup with the Dallas Stars in 1998. He earned a sobriquet nickname in "Eddie the Eagle" one that he was well known as, and wore for his illustrious 20-year career. Belfour was an obnoxious player off the ice (Often in trouble while under the influence, a rude and inconsiderate teammate, a lazy participant.) But was also an elite goaltender and many would say one of the better goaltenders to ever play in the NHL, Belfour was very consistent in his prime and showed examples of prime goaltending. He is ranked 3rd all time in wins with 484 and recorded 76 shutouts throughout his career. An ideal starting goaltender with experience in pressure situations.
Backing up Belfour is Russia's Nikolai Khabibulin, nicknamed "the Bulin Wall" for years of flawless performance and some games where he would just not give up any goals at all. He had a great career with 5 teams. He won a Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2004, and had much experience in the national category. He is inconsistent at times, but a remarkable goaltender during his prime.
Coaching summary coming later tonight.
Defense analysis:
Defense is an extremely crucial component in hockey, so it was definitely something I put a lot of time into developing.
The first, and most important member of the Golden Seals defense is Rod Langway.
Taiwanese-born Rod Langway joined hockey at age 13 once he relocated to Massachusetts, he had size at 6'3" and 215, he also played football as a quarterback, but was recruited to UNH as a hockey player. Langway was one tough, tough man, he would be a fast moving stone pillar who absolutely flattened anyone who dared to cross the line to the Republic of Langway, the Capitals end zone. He had a huge success rate for stopping anyone who would come in on a rush. In his first two seasons in the nation's capital, Langway won two consecutive Norris Trophies as the league's best defenseman recording 30+ points each year, but mainly recognized for his punishing, dominating defensive game. By contrast, Langway was a traditional defender whose shot was likened to a "cool summer breeze". Langway will man the penalty kill as that is his forte, but will watch from the sidelines during the power play, Langway was good offensively, but not nearly as good as he is defensively, he is mostly remembered as a impenetrable force.
Paired up with Langway is Jean-Guy Talbot, a seven-time cup winner with the Montreal Canadiens. He is very similar to Langway, minus the hulking frame. Talbot is only a pint-sized fireball at 5'10" and 170 pounds. His speed for a defenseman was unique, he was up to par with the speed of some of the forwards on the Canadiens in those days. Talbot was solid defensively, he would stand tough and play like he was 6'4 instead of 5'10. He showed forwards who was boss on the ice and didn't crack under pressure. He was a solid penalty killer as well, often seen making shifty maneuvers to steal the puck from others and fire it down the ice before any scoring chances could be attempted.
My second pair consists of a power play specialist, and possibly one of the meanest men to ever play the game of hockey.
I'll start with Lars-Erik Sjoberg, the Winnipeg's first face of the franchise, the Swedish import demonstrated a fabulous offensive game from a defenseman with an accurate, hard shot that hit the net every time. He would often be seen strategically handling the puck in the opposite end trying to locate his wingers so they could set up a play with high success. He was a very smart hockey player who was often nicknamed "The Professor" for his wise leadings and keen hockey sense. He also captained his native Sweden in the 1976 Canada Cup.
On Sjoberg's right is George "Red" Horner. A ruthless defenseman who crushed bodies as they entered the zone or stuck to the boards. Horner was a bigger defenseman in his time, he also showed offensive skills, but didn't need them when he came around as a relentless defender who showed no mercy at all when he came to play hockey. Because of Valeri Kharlamov's fragility, Horner will be on the ice whenever Kharlamov is during even strength, the Golden Seals can't stress how important it is for Kharlamov to always have a bodyguard on the ice is. He in many ways is one of our most valuable players and can't risk him suffering a fatal or brutal injury as he is only small.
The final pairing begins with Behn Wilson, a strong defenseman who played an excellent two-way game. Had a shot that often went in or created defensive chaos in front of the net, which led to a goal. He also liked to hit and cause trouble, he would find himself in the penalty box frequently, he sometimes took stupid penalties, but mostly would be punished for destroying the opposition in a fight. Wilson will share games with Mathieu Schneider, another powerplay specialist. A less defensive, but more offensive version of Wilson, Schneider had a few 20-goal seasons and would always put forth a good effort on the special teams. He was touted as a bit of a locker room cancer, but will easily overcome that flaw once he finds his way into the organization.
And finally, we have Lennart "Lill-Strimma" Svedberg, an unheard of player in North America I have assembled a biography separately for him: http://hfboards.com/showpost.php?p=24912777&postcount=152
Lill-Strimma was predominate on the power play and offensively during even strength, but an absolute stranger to defending in his own end. Which is why he'll only be on the power play and play limited minutes during even strength tight situations late in games.
Goaltending:
Eddie Belfour turned out to be an amazing goaltender from someone who was never drafted. Belfour won the Calder Memorial for Rookie of the year, two Vezina trophies as best goaltender and a Stanley Cup with the Dallas Stars in 1998. He earned a sobriquet nickname in "Eddie the Eagle" one that he was well known as, and wore for his illustrious 20-year career. Belfour was an obnoxious player off the ice (Often in trouble while under the influence, a rude and inconsiderate teammate, a lazy participant.) But was also an elite goaltender and many would say one of the better goaltenders to ever play in the NHL, Belfour was very consistent in his prime and showed examples of prime goaltending. He is ranked 3rd all time in wins with 484 and recorded 76 shutouts throughout his career. An ideal starting goaltender with experience in pressure situations.
Backing up Belfour is Russia's Nikolai Khabibulin, nicknamed "the Bulin Wall" for years of flawless performance and some games where he would just not give up any goals at all. He had a great career with 5 teams. He won a Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2004, and had much experience in the national category. He is inconsistent at times, but a remarkable goaltender during his prime.
Coaching summary coming later tonight.
Last edited:
seventieslord
Student Of The Game
A bit off on these points.
- In Horner's time, 6'0", 190 made him one of the tallest and heaviest players in the NHL. A guy "built like a fire hydrant" would have been a 5'9", 180 pounder.
- Horner was actually among the league leaders for points by a defenseman very often. He was even the highest scorer once.
His toughness is obviously well-known; It's Horner's defense that is more of a mystery. I had him two drafts ago but couldn't find anything saying he was great defensively. His HHOF status and toughness tell us something, but not as much as I think we'd like to know.
Velociraptor
Registered User
Thanks for the info, seventies. I asked my grandfather who was a huge supporter of the Leafs, who is now 88 and he must've gotten Horner and someone else mixed up.
Although I used research and my own knowledge for the greater portion of my write-ups.
Dwight
The French Tickler
I actually had California ranked #1 in their division. VanI's team was ranked 3rd.
California was probably the most deviation I had from my standings.
Both top 6's are excellent - I like Smith's Falls' 3rd line better, but I really like California's 4th line.
I think it'll come down to defense for my vote.
California was probably the most deviation I had from my standings.
Both top 6's are excellent - I like Smith's Falls' 3rd line better, but I really like California's 4th line.
I think it'll come down to defense for my vote.
Velociraptor
Registered User
Thanks for that Chigurh, honestly with my inexperience I expected a last-place finish. It's great to know that other GM's acknowledge my team as a contender compared to these vets who know these players stories inside out.
Should be a great series!
Velociraptor
Registered User
And here in summary to my team analysis, here is the coaching part:
I selected Don Cherry as the man to hold the reins for this team, little did I know that he had a huge incompatibility with European players in bigger roles. Cherry may be out of his head some times, but he is one of the knowledgeable men about the game of hockey that is still around. Believe it or not, before he pursued an NHL coaching career Cherry was coaching the Rochester Americans and though criticized for being too friendly with the players he excelled as a coach and eventually won the Bruins job in 1974. Cherry worked his players hard, and made sure that no game was lost without a fight. Cherry never saw a championship come to Boston or Colorado, Cherry did coach the Bruins to an NHL record of 11 players with 20 goals or more on a single team. He also did win a Jack Adams award for best coach in 1976, In the same year he joined the coaching staff of the victorious Team Canada in the Canada Cup.
The thing with Cherry was, he always wanted his players to succeed and play to the best of their ability.
Cherry's coaching career may have been underlooked because after coaching he became a celebrity. Launching TV shows, opening restaurants and starring on Hockey Night in Canada.
You may write him off immensely for his blatant comments and mysterious hatred for players who "try too hard" but really, he was a fantastic coach who knew the game so well, and he brings a huge amount of experience to this team.
As my assistant coach, I selected Jaroslav Pitner. Now I don't know too much about Pitner, but from reading posts here and what people have to say, Pitner was an excellent tactician. Which is the perfect task for an assistant coach, there would be absolute havoc if I moved Pitner to head coach over Cherry and there would be more locker room problems than anyone would think, but with Pitner as the assistant coach, I think this team will gain much advantage and success due to the fact that Pitner is adept to working maneuvers themselves.
I will post my overall analysis on why I should win this series over Smith Falls, It may be lengthly. But I will convince you that this series could be in my favor, with a few good match-ups and the right tactics.
Hope you enjoyed the team analysis and I hope it reflects on how you will vote for me.
Peace for now,
V
I selected Don Cherry as the man to hold the reins for this team, little did I know that he had a huge incompatibility with European players in bigger roles. Cherry may be out of his head some times, but he is one of the knowledgeable men about the game of hockey that is still around. Believe it or not, before he pursued an NHL coaching career Cherry was coaching the Rochester Americans and though criticized for being too friendly with the players he excelled as a coach and eventually won the Bruins job in 1974. Cherry worked his players hard, and made sure that no game was lost without a fight. Cherry never saw a championship come to Boston or Colorado, Cherry did coach the Bruins to an NHL record of 11 players with 20 goals or more on a single team. He also did win a Jack Adams award for best coach in 1976, In the same year he joined the coaching staff of the victorious Team Canada in the Canada Cup.
The thing with Cherry was, he always wanted his players to succeed and play to the best of their ability.
Cherry's coaching career may have been underlooked because after coaching he became a celebrity. Launching TV shows, opening restaurants and starring on Hockey Night in Canada.
You may write him off immensely for his blatant comments and mysterious hatred for players who "try too hard" but really, he was a fantastic coach who knew the game so well, and he brings a huge amount of experience to this team.
As my assistant coach, I selected Jaroslav Pitner. Now I don't know too much about Pitner, but from reading posts here and what people have to say, Pitner was an excellent tactician. Which is the perfect task for an assistant coach, there would be absolute havoc if I moved Pitner to head coach over Cherry and there would be more locker room problems than anyone would think, but with Pitner as the assistant coach, I think this team will gain much advantage and success due to the fact that Pitner is adept to working maneuvers themselves.
I will post my overall analysis on why I should win this series over Smith Falls, It may be lengthly. But I will convince you that this series could be in my favor, with a few good match-ups and the right tactics.
Hope you enjoyed the team analysis and I hope it reflects on how you will vote for me.
Peace for now,
V
seventieslord
Student Of The Game
Thanks for the info, seventies. I asked my grandfather who was a huge supporter of the Leafs, who is now 88 and he must've gotten Horner and someone else mixed up.
It must be awesome to have someone you can talk to about that era. My grandfather is just 76 and not big into hockey
But hey, victory for you - he was bigger than you thought, and provided more offense than you thought.
Velociraptor
Registered User
It must be awesome to have someone you can talk to about that era. My grandfather is just 76 and not big into hockey
But hey, victory for you - he was bigger than you thought, and provided more offense than you thought.
Yeah, he was a huge fan who showed much dedication.
My great uncle is Bob Cole (ex-husband of my grandfathers sister), I talk to him every few years or so, last time was 3 or 4 years ago in St. John's but hear from his kids (who are in the range of 30-40) more often than I talk to him, although as a child I was still huge into hockey, playing it all the time, following it 24/7. Knew all the players names, birthplaces, stats and it used to fascinate Bob, who as you can all tell, now struggles with naming
.I'd love to regularly consult Bob about the history of hockey, but we're never home at the same time, I leave for Arizona again next week after just arriving home a week ago, and Bob is almost never home in St. John's.
I might have missed reference to it, as I read a lot of this stuff days ago, but who will stop Smith's Falls first line? As indicated, Trottier's line will be matched up against the Beliveau line. I'm assuming Pulford's line will be matched up against the Hawerchuk line. Since the Fusiliers have home ice and a far better coach, getting match ups shouldn't be much of a problem.
I think Stewart's line would have it's way with the third and fourth line of the Seals, for sure. Thoughts on this Velociraptor?
I'd also like to hear some analysis from VI on the series.
I think Stewart's line would have it's way with the third and fourth line of the Seals, for sure. Thoughts on this Velociraptor?
I'd also like to hear some analysis from VI on the series.
Velociraptor
Registered User
I don't certainly don't think my third or fourth lines can outperform the Fusiliers first line, but I think they can definitely matchup with them. Howe, Stewart and Gilbert would most likely have their way, but I think it would be a lot closer than you think. Remember three of my top four defenseman and mean, ruthless men who will make this a atrocious struggle for them to pass the blue line without any problem at all. There will be altercation. Then again their is ongoing deliberation on match ups with the Fusiliers. I'm working on my final analysis, so that should answer any question you might have inquired about or if you were curious to know.
Velociraptor
Registered User
REPORT: SEALS TO DRESS SCHNEIDER, BENCH WILSON
SMITH FALLS, Ont. - The California Seals are going with Mathieu Schneider opposed to Behn Wilson in the quarterfinals of the All-Time Draft post-season.
Schneider, a power play specialist split games with Wilson for the majority of the season, but they think he is a more suitable player for this series as they need a solid power play, and already have a legitimate penalty kill.
That's all.
SMITH FALLS, Ont. - The California Seals are going with Mathieu Schneider opposed to Behn Wilson in the quarterfinals of the All-Time Draft post-season.
Schneider, a power play specialist split games with Wilson for the majority of the season, but they think he is a more suitable player for this series as they need a solid power play, and already have a legitimate penalty kill.
That's all.
TheDevilMadeMe
Registered User
The Fusiliers' top line has the potential to be dominant offensively. But they should also be exploitable defensively - if matched up against a great two-way line. I'm not sure the Golden Seals have such a line, but if I'm California, I want the Bentley/Hawerchuk line on the Stewart line. But I assume the Fusiliers (and their better coach) have other plans.
VanIslander
A 19-year ATDer on HfBoards
I have been speechless at how well Velociraptor has been doing describing his team's strengths. Indeed he has drafted a thoughtful line-up deserving of better than last-place performance in a division.
For sure, the GM has done a marvelous job of protecting his superstar Soviet:
California can upset the Fusiliers if it plays a Don Cherry brawling type of game which draws penalties and fighting majors out of key players like Conacher and Trottier. Kharlamov should have space to skate because the Fusiliers cannot afford to incur the wrath of the Golden Seals, whose toughness and grit is substantial. But Smith's Falls is not a bunch of shrinking violets, instead a professional minded bunch of defensively responsible, fast, skilled and hardworking guys whose coach will make them keep their eye on the ball, so to speak, concentrating on exploiting scoring opportunities and closing the door when the team gets a lead. Belfour will see some pretty big guys in his face and the tough Seals had better concentrate less on fighting and more on trying to defend Old Poison and Trotts (both of whom will see heavy minutes when not leading). The Fusilers expect to carry play into traffic and to work the middle of the ice. Rabbit or Gotts ought to be up to the task of handling Mogilny but there's no doubt that the Russian is an X-factor. The Seals are not a team built to protect a lead, unlike the Fusiliers, so either a low scoring series is needed to upset Smith's Falls or else California will have to be able to pour it on offensively against a team designed to get the lead and protect it. California has Langway to neutralize the crease presence of Trottier or Stewart, which might prompt coach Irvin to split up the two giants on different pp units, and capitalize on times when Langway isn't on the ice. California doesn't have an ideal group of penalty killers other than Langway, and so disciplined hockey to draw penalties from the Seals would be a Fusilier advantage. Only, will that happen? Or will the Seals get under the Fusliers' skin and draw retaliatory penalties to give the Beliveau powerplay more chances than they should? This series could go either way, but the stars will have to align just so for the Golden Seals to emerge victorious in the series.
Good luck Velociraptor! Whatever happens I look forward to your draftings in the future.
For sure, the GM has done a marvelous job of protecting his superstar Soviet:
If anybody on the Fusiliers is gonna step out of line and get into fights over the rough and tumble treatment dished out to Kharlamov it will ironically be a fellow Soviet, the longtime USSR captain Mayorov, who loved to fight and played a physical brand of hockey. Players like Conacher and Pulford will be too busy helping Trottier go against the force known as Big John. Many teams haven't the size or defensive skill to handle Beliveau but Smith's Falls ain't among them. Gartner's speed is also countered by the quick and mobile Fusilier blueline and the clutch intensity of Bower. The Golden Seals' third line stands out as league-average at best on an otherwise strong California group of forwards. The 4th line is indeed impressive and the sort of rough and tumble back line I'd imagine putting together. Smith's Falls' coach Dick Irvin will have to preach a disciplined brand of hockey not to let Corson, Linseman and Pronovost goad Fusiliers into taking unnecessary penalties. Fortunately, there are no loose cannon hotheads on the team and the focus will be on taking care of business with a squad expecting to go far in the playoffs.Velociraptor said:
California can upset the Fusiliers if it plays a Don Cherry brawling type of game which draws penalties and fighting majors out of key players like Conacher and Trottier. Kharlamov should have space to skate because the Fusiliers cannot afford to incur the wrath of the Golden Seals, whose toughness and grit is substantial. But Smith's Falls is not a bunch of shrinking violets, instead a professional minded bunch of defensively responsible, fast, skilled and hardworking guys whose coach will make them keep their eye on the ball, so to speak, concentrating on exploiting scoring opportunities and closing the door when the team gets a lead. Belfour will see some pretty big guys in his face and the tough Seals had better concentrate less on fighting and more on trying to defend Old Poison and Trotts (both of whom will see heavy minutes when not leading). The Fusilers expect to carry play into traffic and to work the middle of the ice. Rabbit or Gotts ought to be up to the task of handling Mogilny but there's no doubt that the Russian is an X-factor. The Seals are not a team built to protect a lead, unlike the Fusiliers, so either a low scoring series is needed to upset Smith's Falls or else California will have to be able to pour it on offensively against a team designed to get the lead and protect it. California has Langway to neutralize the crease presence of Trottier or Stewart, which might prompt coach Irvin to split up the two giants on different pp units, and capitalize on times when Langway isn't on the ice. California doesn't have an ideal group of penalty killers other than Langway, and so disciplined hockey to draw penalties from the Seals would be a Fusilier advantage. Only, will that happen? Or will the Seals get under the Fusliers' skin and draw retaliatory penalties to give the Beliveau powerplay more chances than they should? This series could go either way, but the stars will have to align just so for the Golden Seals to emerge victorious in the series.
Good luck Velociraptor! Whatever happens I look forward to your draftings in the future.
Velociraptor
Registered User
As promised, here is my complete analysis on the series:
Two fantastic teams square off in the first round, this isn't all bias, because I can pick out at least more teams I think I could be ahead of. But I'm happy to have been handed a challenge in the first round with a veteran in VanIslander.
The Smiths Falls Fusiliers are a lineup that consists of grit, speed, scoring potential, toughness and experience. A team that definitely does have potential to reign over many, however the California Golden Seals have other plans.
A team that plays a very skilled game up front, and an extremely defensive game in the back. With the fast-footed, freight train defenseman that the Golden Seals have, there will be no easy passage. Now on paper, you'd probably think that hockey greats like Sid Howe or Nels Stewart would easily make a cake walk to the net and slide the puck past great Ed Belfour. But the California Golden Seals take no opposition lightly, the hard-hitting blue line core ensures no entry for forwards with blazing speed, or hands that are so soft that hypnotize the defense instantly. Behind the six ironmen that man the back-end comes a goaltender with much experience, Ed Belfour. I've been watching Belfour for as long as I can remember. When the Canucks used to play Dallas, this guy was impenetrable, they'd take shots at all cylinders and Belfour would find some way to keep the puck out. The Canucks weren't the only team either, and 484 wins in 963 games, a career GAA of 2.50 and 76 shutouts are some pretty damn impressive numbers for an undrafted goaltender. Sure Belfour won't be flawless, but he'll have help from an immaculate 18 players in front of him, talented enough to ensure Belfour won't need to do all the work.
FIRST LINE COMPARISON:
Both of these squads have impressive starting lines, I'll start with Smith Falls. A very accomplished first of line of three offensive pioneers, both with severely illustrious careers to reflect on. I'm not entirely sold on the teams ability to backcheck. Per what I've gained Stewart was named by Ultimate Hockey as the worst skater and the worst defensive forward of the 1930's. I think my first line adds the all the perfect essentials to an all-time draft first line, Kharlamov's speed and shot, Beliveau's big presence and offensive ability and Sloan's toughness and hitting.
Edge: California (favors me due to Stewart's one-dimensional style, great one-dimensional mind you.)
SECOND LINE COMPARISON:
Here's where I think the Fusiliers biggest strong points is. With Trots centering arguably a playoff warrior in Elias and Pitre's hockey sense. I think it overpowers my superline of offensive superstars, although they aren't to be underestimated, as all three can create offensive anarchy with the blazing speed of Gartner, Bentley's astute game of hockey, and the leadership and playmaking ability that comes with Dale Hawerchuk. They shouldn't be underestimated.
Slight Edge: Smith Falls
THIRD LINE COMPARISON:
Another well-assembled line by VI, Gottselig the player was a nifty skater and puck handler. He was respected around the league as a creative left winger "who could make a fool out of you if you didn't watch him closely." Pulford who is also a very effective defensive forward who was known to boost a teams penalty kill immediately upon arrival. My third line is Kurtenbach, a big presence who is known to play smart, effective hockey. And two fast scoring wingers who will eventually make it hell for the Smiths Falls defenders as my offensive ammunition will seem like it never stops coming.
Edge: Smith Falls
FOURTH LINE COMPARISON:
I think I created a great fourth line in my first year here, Shayne Corson and Kenny Linseman are absolute hell to go up against as they are just the beginning of sin and punishment if Langway, Talbot or Horner are on the blue line. And Pronovost's offensive touch just makes it a hell lot worse, as Linseman who is known as a playmaker second to a grinder, will be able to weave the puck to Pronovost which will make for many scoring chances. Although I do like the Fusiliers last line, I think mine is a clear winner in this category.
Moderate Edge: California
FIRST PAIR DEFENSE COMPARISON:
As some posters have submitted their input, this series very may well come down to defense. Two colossal top pairings as Langway's accolades and Talbot's championship experience square off with the austere offensive ability of Leetch, and the athletic predominance of Lionel Conacher. I think it's very important to have a high-scoring defenseman on the first pairing, but in this case I'd be more worried as Leetch's defensive incapability becomes a problem defending the Seals first line, it would need to be Conacher putting in 75% of the work defensively, whereas the Seals have two defenseman who are astounding defensively and will become steel gates for an imminent portion of the game.
Edge: California
SECOND PAIR DEFENSE COMPARISON:
Two Russians I don't know much about, Lutchenko from what I do know was a great two-way defenseman, but I must confess my knowledge of Tysgankov is virtually zero. Red Horner, possibly the hardest hitting player in this series should teach many Fusilier forwards a lesson in defense and Lars-Erik Sjoberg's dominance on offensively will prove forensic for this match up.
Edge: California (if I knew more about Tsygankov that would provoke me to change my decision, I'd consider it)
THIRD PAIR DEFENSE COMPARISON:
Mainly offensive specialists here, St. Laurent is probably the only really formatted defensively inclined player of the four. Ozolinsh's powerplay experience almost breaks even with Schneider's and Lennart Svedberg, who was touted as "the Swedish Paul Coffey" was an exceptional offensive defenseman who would've been explosive had he made an adventure to North America, unfortunately he opted not to play.
Tie: both have evenly matched, level 3rd pairing defenseman.
GOALTENDING:
Johnny Bower played half of the games Belfour played. And Bower has slightly better results, I'm not going to argue about if I think Belfour was a better goaltender than Bower, because that is a false statement. I think Bower is a great goaltender, but will show flaws and eventual fatigue due to the depth of my dynamic scoring core. Needless to say, Bower is better, and I found out who Bouse Hutton was 10 minutes ago nothing to report besides near flawless numbers in the first decade of the twentieth century.
Edge: Smith Falls
POWERPLAY:
I think this is another good comparison, I do think Stewart's skating will be a problem trying to keep up with Trottier and Howe and the Seals penalty kill will become a huge problem in the corners at the point. Both of California's extra men sequences demonstrate offensive dominance, the first one is capable of setting up ultimate goal scoring chances that with the right touch can be easily capitalized.
Edge: California
PENALTY KILL:
I think this becomes a big problem for you VanIslander, this penalty kill is very stable and will become your worst nightmare. As I stated Stewart's skating weaknesses will play a very big part in the potential failure of your power play, which cuts out the work for my penalty kill who just needs to crush bodies and play an overaggressive defensive game. With Langway, Talbot and Horner on the penalty kill, the three of them are highly experienced defensively and will do everything in their power to stop scoring chances, demolish bodies and get the puck out without hesitating.
Edge: California
COACHING:
A huge advantage in Smith Falls favor here, Dick Irvin is one of the best coaches in hockey history and I won't even start on where Cherry ranks compared to him. With his great tactics and sense he'll decide the best match-ups for this series. However I think I gain a bit more having Pitner under Cherry's wing, Irvin still stands above.
Moderate Edge: Smith Falls
But I must warn you, regardless there is no easy way out of this series. Whether it's the unstoppable offense, the tumultuous defense or the way Cherry and Pitner decide to play out the series.
I have defended my case to the best of it's ability, and I think it's more than just possible that the Golden Seals can pull of the first round upset here. I hope these summaries I have provided for you will encourage you to vote for me, or at least consider that this team is capable of making a case for itself in the postseason.
Good luck to the Smiths Falls Fusiliers, and this should be a great series, possibly one of the better quarterfinal head-to-head competitions we'll see in ATD 12.
V
Two fantastic teams square off in the first round, this isn't all bias, because I can pick out at least more teams I think I could be ahead of. But I'm happy to have been handed a challenge in the first round with a veteran in VanIslander.
The Smiths Falls Fusiliers are a lineup that consists of grit, speed, scoring potential, toughness and experience. A team that definitely does have potential to reign over many, however the California Golden Seals have other plans.
A team that plays a very skilled game up front, and an extremely defensive game in the back. With the fast-footed, freight train defenseman that the Golden Seals have, there will be no easy passage. Now on paper, you'd probably think that hockey greats like Sid Howe or Nels Stewart would easily make a cake walk to the net and slide the puck past great Ed Belfour. But the California Golden Seals take no opposition lightly, the hard-hitting blue line core ensures no entry for forwards with blazing speed, or hands that are so soft that hypnotize the defense instantly. Behind the six ironmen that man the back-end comes a goaltender with much experience, Ed Belfour. I've been watching Belfour for as long as I can remember. When the Canucks used to play Dallas, this guy was impenetrable, they'd take shots at all cylinders and Belfour would find some way to keep the puck out. The Canucks weren't the only team either, and 484 wins in 963 games, a career GAA of 2.50 and 76 shutouts are some pretty damn impressive numbers for an undrafted goaltender. Sure Belfour won't be flawless, but he'll have help from an immaculate 18 players in front of him, talented enough to ensure Belfour won't need to do all the work.
FIRST LINE COMPARISON:
Both of these squads have impressive starting lines, I'll start with Smith Falls. A very accomplished first of line of three offensive pioneers, both with severely illustrious careers to reflect on. I'm not entirely sold on the teams ability to backcheck. Per what I've gained Stewart was named by Ultimate Hockey as the worst skater and the worst defensive forward of the 1930's. I think my first line adds the all the perfect essentials to an all-time draft first line, Kharlamov's speed and shot, Beliveau's big presence and offensive ability and Sloan's toughness and hitting.
Edge: California (favors me due to Stewart's one-dimensional style, great one-dimensional mind you.)
SECOND LINE COMPARISON:
Here's where I think the Fusiliers biggest strong points is. With Trots centering arguably a playoff warrior in Elias and Pitre's hockey sense. I think it overpowers my superline of offensive superstars, although they aren't to be underestimated, as all three can create offensive anarchy with the blazing speed of Gartner, Bentley's astute game of hockey, and the leadership and playmaking ability that comes with Dale Hawerchuk. They shouldn't be underestimated.
Slight Edge: Smith Falls
THIRD LINE COMPARISON:
Another well-assembled line by VI, Gottselig the player was a nifty skater and puck handler. He was respected around the league as a creative left winger "who could make a fool out of you if you didn't watch him closely." Pulford who is also a very effective defensive forward who was known to boost a teams penalty kill immediately upon arrival. My third line is Kurtenbach, a big presence who is known to play smart, effective hockey. And two fast scoring wingers who will eventually make it hell for the Smiths Falls defenders as my offensive ammunition will seem like it never stops coming.
Edge: Smith Falls
FOURTH LINE COMPARISON:
I think I created a great fourth line in my first year here, Shayne Corson and Kenny Linseman are absolute hell to go up against as they are just the beginning of sin and punishment if Langway, Talbot or Horner are on the blue line. And Pronovost's offensive touch just makes it a hell lot worse, as Linseman who is known as a playmaker second to a grinder, will be able to weave the puck to Pronovost which will make for many scoring chances. Although I do like the Fusiliers last line, I think mine is a clear winner in this category.
Moderate Edge: California
FIRST PAIR DEFENSE COMPARISON:
As some posters have submitted their input, this series very may well come down to defense. Two colossal top pairings as Langway's accolades and Talbot's championship experience square off with the austere offensive ability of Leetch, and the athletic predominance of Lionel Conacher. I think it's very important to have a high-scoring defenseman on the first pairing, but in this case I'd be more worried as Leetch's defensive incapability becomes a problem defending the Seals first line, it would need to be Conacher putting in 75% of the work defensively, whereas the Seals have two defenseman who are astounding defensively and will become steel gates for an imminent portion of the game.
Edge: California
SECOND PAIR DEFENSE COMPARISON:
Two Russians I don't know much about, Lutchenko from what I do know was a great two-way defenseman, but I must confess my knowledge of Tysgankov is virtually zero. Red Horner, possibly the hardest hitting player in this series should teach many Fusilier forwards a lesson in defense and Lars-Erik Sjoberg's dominance on offensively will prove forensic for this match up.
Edge: California (if I knew more about Tsygankov that would provoke me to change my decision, I'd consider it)
THIRD PAIR DEFENSE COMPARISON:
Mainly offensive specialists here, St. Laurent is probably the only really formatted defensively inclined player of the four. Ozolinsh's powerplay experience almost breaks even with Schneider's and Lennart Svedberg, who was touted as "the Swedish Paul Coffey" was an exceptional offensive defenseman who would've been explosive had he made an adventure to North America, unfortunately he opted not to play.
Tie: both have evenly matched, level 3rd pairing defenseman.
GOALTENDING:
Johnny Bower played half of the games Belfour played. And Bower has slightly better results, I'm not going to argue about if I think Belfour was a better goaltender than Bower, because that is a false statement. I think Bower is a great goaltender, but will show flaws and eventual fatigue due to the depth of my dynamic scoring core. Needless to say, Bower is better, and I found out who Bouse Hutton was 10 minutes ago
nothing to report besides near flawless numbers in the first decade of the twentieth century.Edge: Smith Falls
POWERPLAY:
I think this is another good comparison, I do think Stewart's skating will be a problem trying to keep up with Trottier and Howe and the Seals penalty kill will become a huge problem in the corners at the point. Both of California's extra men sequences demonstrate offensive dominance, the first one is capable of setting up ultimate goal scoring chances that with the right touch can be easily capitalized.
Edge: California
PENALTY KILL:
I think this becomes a big problem for you VanIslander, this penalty kill is very stable and will become your worst nightmare. As I stated Stewart's skating weaknesses will play a very big part in the potential failure of your power play, which cuts out the work for my penalty kill who just needs to crush bodies and play an overaggressive defensive game. With Langway, Talbot and Horner on the penalty kill, the three of them are highly experienced defensively and will do everything in their power to stop scoring chances, demolish bodies and get the puck out without hesitating.
Edge: California
COACHING:
A huge advantage in Smith Falls favor here, Dick Irvin is one of the best coaches in hockey history and I won't even start on where Cherry ranks compared to him. With his great tactics and sense he'll decide the best match-ups for this series. However I think I gain a bit more having Pitner under Cherry's wing, Irvin still stands above.
Moderate Edge: Smith Falls
But I must warn you, regardless there is no easy way out of this series. Whether it's the unstoppable offense, the tumultuous defense or the way Cherry and Pitner decide to play out the series.
I have defended my case to the best of it's ability, and I think it's more than just possible that the Golden Seals can pull of the first round upset here. I hope these summaries I have provided for you will encourage you to vote for me, or at least consider that this team is capable of making a case for itself in the postseason.
Good luck to the Smiths Falls Fusiliers, and this should be a great series, possibly one of the better quarterfinal head-to-head competitions we'll see in ATD 12.
V
VanIslander
A 19-year ATDer on HfBoards
ATD 2010 1st round result:
The Smith's Falls Fusiliers DEFEAT the California Golden Seals in 6 games.
The three stars of the series:
1. Bryan Trottier, Fusiliers
2. Jean Beliveau, Golden Seals
3. Johnny Bower, Fusiliers
The Smith's Falls Fusiliers DEFEAT the California Golden Seals in 6 games.
The three stars of the series:
1. Bryan Trottier, Fusiliers
2. Jean Beliveau, Golden Seals
3. Johnny Bower, Fusiliers
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