Second Round Preview

No spacing between rounds as we get back at it again tonight with the Sharks taking on the Wings...but I'm glad there's no unnecessary break

As Lee and I talked about, Game 1 is so big in this series for the Sharks...it will set the tone for how they get through the round mentally

The other Western series will be a classic as a young/talented Hawks team takes on a young/talented Canucks team in a rematch from last year

I think the Hawks have more talent at both the forward and defensive position, but the great equalizer will be Luongo! (if he's on his game)

The Penguins are loving the idea that they play the 8 seed in the second round and their biggest threat for the Stanley Cup spot is now gone

As good of a story as Montreal is, they can't simply rely on Halak to bail them out every single game...it will catch up to them eventually!

Of course, everyone predicted a Boston/Philly 2nd round series...I like the Flyers over Boston for the same reasons I picked them in Round 1

On paper, they're a more talented team and I don't think the gap between Tuukka Rask and Brian Boucher is as big as people make it out to be

It's a Miracle!

Just so jealous of Habs fans right now...called Baby Large in Montreal and it was pure pandemonium where he was...he had to hang up on me...

Before I head to bed, just wanted 2 get some quick thoughts out there on each 1st round series before we head into Round 2 starting tomorrow

If you managed to be 1 of the few people that picked the Habs 2 win over the Caps, my kudos to you 'cause I would have never saw this coming

Habs' next opponent will be the Pens...thought they looked on form against the Sens and don't see them folding like the Caps just managed to

A Bruins/Flyers second round matchup? And yet another example of why people are always quick to say, "And that's why they play the games..."

Both teams won by making their weakness a strength...the Bruins weren't supposed to score and the Flyers weren't supposed 2 have goaltending

The West went as I expected as I was able to nail all 4 series winners, but then again, most people picked the same 4 winners that I did....

You could say all 4 series winners were pushed harder than what was expected, which bodes well for a competitive conference for years 2 come

I'll preview the 2nd-round series tomorrow as best I can, but gotta say my confidence in previewing is shot after Montreal's win tonight....

What a trio of games!

Just getting ready to settle on my comfy couch for three big Game 6's tonight with Washington/Montreal, Buffalo/Boston and Chicago/Nashville

For Washington/Montreal, I expect 2 see a very similar game to what we saw Saturday with the Sens/Penguins or last night with Vancouver/L.A.

Look for the underdog to come out so hungry in the first half of the game only for the more talented/experienced team to come from behind...

With Buffalo/Boston, we'll see exactly what we've seen in the first 5 games...tight-checking, goalie-dominated hockey...I still like Buffalo

Even though the Sabres are behind in the series, I get the sense that the Bruins are more prone or susceptible 2 cracking under the pressure

In the late game tonight, I really don't like Nashville's chances...the way in which they lost Game 5 on Saturday had to be so demoralizing!

Having to come back in the final seconds of the third was the final wake-up call that Chicago needed...they will finally put this team away!

Oh god...how I would love to be in Montreal right now for this game...I'm not even a Habs fan, but the atmosphere seems so magical right now

Amazing Performances!

I know everyone has been focusing on the Stanley Cup playoffs and even a few of you found time 2 squeeze in time 4 the NFL Draft Thursday...

But just watching the NBA Playoffs today and seeing some of the incredible performances Sunday afternoon remind me why I love B-Ball so much

Do yourself a favour and watch Lebron against Chicago and D-Wade against Boston today...unreal! Another example of why they're so coveted...

Lebrons line in 36 minutes: 11-17 from the field, 6-9 from 3pt line, 9-10 from the free throw line for 37 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists

D-Wade line in 43 minutes: 16-24 from the field, 5-7 from 3pt line, 9-14 from the free throw line for 46 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists...

The biggest surprise by far is Oklahoma City in a 2-2 series tie with the Lakers as the 8 seed in the West...that wasn't supposed to happen!

Oklahoma City only won 23 games last year and were down 2-0...it was supposed to be a sweep, but as Lee Corso says, "Not so fast, my friend"

I know I won't have to do an NBA analysis on Sportscall anytime soon, but just letting you know that I can talk about it if you want.... :-)

Classic Games 5 and 6...Awesome!

Sens have nothing to be ashamed of...give them tons of credit for making the Pens earn that fourth win...they simply lost to a powerhouse...

Also give credit to Pascal Leclaire for another solid goaltending effort...just wonder what could have been if he started in the first place

Couldn't believe that the Pens were coming out so flat in the first half of that hockey game...they almost gave away a second straight game!

And the Sens came out with determination and knowledge that their season was on the line yet again...they took advantage and got a big lead!

But something was realized in the Pens' locker room between the 2nd and 3rd periods...all of a sudden, they found that killer instinct again

And when a team as talented as Pittsburgh finds that killer instinct like they showed from the 3rd until the winner, they are unstoppable...

In the 3rd period, the Pens were so motivated...the Sens were nervous, timid and holding on for dear life...they were trying to avoid losing

Now the talk of next year begins, but give yourselves a night to relax and unwind somehow....it is a beautiful Saturday night after all :-)

NFL Draft Winners and Losers

With all the talk surrounding the Senators/Penguins series going into Game 6 tonight, I finally had a chance to catch up on the news from the NFL Draft today...after a couple of hours of reading from Round 1 to Round 6, there are teams that stick out to me that took full advantage of the weekend and other teams that would have been advised to just "auto-draft" instead...

Winners:

Seattle Seahawks:

Easy to be a winner when you have two picks in the top 15, but they key was being able to snatch Golden Tate from Notre Dame with a late second-round pick. Most projections had him in the first round. Russell Okung was a great pickup at 6 and should be a great LT for them for years to come. Earl Thomas will eventually lead the secondary from his safety spot if everything works out.

Detroit Lions

Uhh....wait...we're not supposed to be talking about the Lions in the same column as a winning team, but things are finally turning around for this franchise. It started with the drafting of Matthew Stafford for the 2009 season. Now, they add Ndamukong Suh to shore up the defensive front 4 and a great pick at 30 with Jahvid Best to give depth to the running back spot.

Losers

Jacksonville Jaguars

So they have one pick in the first couple of rounds and they pick someone at the 10 spot who has projections of someone that can be picked in the second or third round. No offense to Tyson Alualu, but that's just a headscratcher...at least they picked up MLB Kirk Morrison via trade from Oakland.

Denver Broncos

Three picks in the first 45 and they managed to bumble this so badly. Demaryius Thomas might turn out to be a decent NFL receiver, but it's an odd pick with Dez Bryant still on the board. Then Denver decides to take flyers on Tim Tebow and offensive guard Zane Beadles.

Everyone and their mother has already given their opinion on Tebow's ability at the next level and he might still be a great QB, but with better pick management, Denver could have picked someone higher on the board and still have a chance at plucking Tebow in a later round. Then they choose Beadles from Utah...a project indeed considering that some insiders don't have Beadles projecting to ever be NFL-calibre. Ouch!

Pascal is in!

For once, my thought on the Sens goaltending meshed with the Sens' decision making...Pascal Leclaire gets the nod tonight over Brian Elliott

It's perfectly clear after 4 games in this series that Brian Elliott was not capable of handling the pressure and that change was necessary!

Doesn't mean Elliott can't learn from the experience and become better for it, but in a must-win, you can't stick with someone struggling...

For Pascal Leclaire, he's in charge of turning around the goaltending of the Sens and quick...this is why you get paid millions of dollars...

Fair or not, the way Sens fans look at Leclaire going forward will depend a lot on tonight...the anger will be off the charts if he falters!

Look, we can focus all we want on the goaltending...but if the mental mistakes and turnovers continue, it will be another ugly night in Pitt

As Ian Mendes said to us today, the first 10-15 mins will go a long way to telling us how the game goes...Sens need to come out with urgency

Like I said though, I wouldn't bet my net worth on the Sens coming out with urgency...wouldn't be surprised if they were already defeated...

The 2010 Super NFL Trip

As I mentioned on Sportscall Tuesday night, I was waiting for the 2010 NFL Schedule to come out because so many people have asked whether or not you can fit all 32 home stadiums into one season...well, I put the time in to schedule you a hell of a season, if you're willing to follow to it...so, let's go!

Week 1: New Orleans, St. Louis and Kansas City

You start the ultimate season by flying out to New Orleans for the season opener on September 9th as the Super Bowl champs will play their opener against the Minnesota Vikings. What a game to start!

You'll then have some freedom to decide on what you want to do between Friday morning and Sunday afternoon. You can simply fly or you can rent a car and make the 10 hour-drive to St. Louis and split it up over two days...Memphis is right in between if you desire.

You'll see the St. Louis Rams on Sunday afternoon against Arizona, then it's a four-hour drive to Kansas City for the Monday nighter against San Diego. Then fly from KC to Ottawa.

Week 2: Oakland, San Francisco

Easy travel here...fly from Ottawa to San Francisco in time for the Sunday afternoon tilt. Oakland takes on St. Louis followed by the Monday night as San Francisco hosts New Orleans. Simply fly home from San Francisco on Tuesday back to Ottawa.

Week 3: Minneapolis, Chicago

Fly from Ottawa to Minneapolis in time for a Sunday afternoon tilt between the Vikings and the Detroit Lions. Then you'll have to drive 7 hours between Minny and Chicago in time for the Monday nighter as the Bears host the Green bay Packers! That's gonna be a great atmosphere. Then fly from O'Hare airport back to Ottawa.

Week 4: Jacksonville, Miami

Down to the Florida Heat for Week 4 as you take in the Jacksonville Jaguars host Peyton and the Colts. Then drive 5 hours in time for the Monday nighter in Miami as the Dolphins take on the New England Patriots. Fly out from Miami back to Ottawa on Tuesday.

Week 5: Buffalo, New York Jets

No flying necessary this week as you take in a game at Ralph Wilson Stadium. The Buffalo Bills will take on the Jacksonville Jaguars, then drive 7 hours before the Monday night tilt as the New York Jets host the Minnesota Vikings.

Week 6: Philadelphia, Washington

This is the first week where things will be tight, so let's hope for some good weather in the area! It will be a very busy Sunday as you take in the 1 o'clock game in Philly. The Eagles take on the Atlanta Falcons. You will then have to drive just over 2 hours to Washington in time for the Sunday nighter as the Redskins host the Indianapolis Colts.

Week 7: Seattle

Seattle is one of those terrible cities that is just so inconvenient...I found that out the hard way during the baseball trip and it gets in the way again, so I'll send you there for a simple trip to Seattle. The Seahawks host the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday afternoon.

Week 8: Detroit, Indianapolis

Get to Detroit whatever you want, but just get there in time to see the Lions host the Washington Redskins. Then you'll drive 5 hours to Indianapolis to see the Houston Texans come into town to take on the Colts.

Week 9: Cleveland, Cincinnati

Get to Cleveland to see the Browns host the New England Patriots, then drive the four hours to see the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night host the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Week 10: Atlanta, Tampa Bay

Longer trip even though there's only 2 games because the Atlanta game is a Thursday night against Baltimore. You then have three days to go around the Southeast as you wish. Just have to get into Tampa Bay for the 1 o'clock Sunday game against Carolina.

Week 11: Pittsburgh, San Diego

I apologize for this week, but this is one really bad week for travel...much like Seattle, San Diego is a tough city to deal with in planning...

So fly to Pittsburgh for a Sunday afternoon game against the Oakland Raiders...then take a flight on Sunday afternoon or an early flight Monday morning from Pittsburgh out to San Diego in time for the Monday nighter as the Chargers host the Denver Broncos.

Week 12: Dallas, Houston

It wouldn't be a Super NFL Trip without at least a Thanksgiving Game, so fly out to Dallas for the Thursday afternoon game against the New Orleans Saints.

Then have some fun in Texas on the weekend, but just make it in time to get to Houston to see the Texans take on the Tennessee Titans on Sunday afternoon.

Week 13: New York Giants, New England

Get yourself to New York to see the Giants take on the Washington Redskins, then you have to drive 4 hours to see the Patriots on Monday night host the New York Jets.

Week 14: Tennessee, Carolina

Another Thursday/Sunday weekend as the Titans host the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday night. Then you have 7 hours to drive between Thursday night and Sunday afternoon as the Carolina Panthers take on the Atlanta Falcons. Just fly home from Charlotte after that.

Week 15: Baltimore

Simple trip to Baltimore for Week 15 as you see the Ravens host the New Orleans Saints for a Sunday afternoon tilt.

Week 16: Arizona, Denver

Our only Saturday night game takes us to Phoenix as the Arizona Cardinals take on the Dallas Cowboys on Christmas night...unfortunately, you'll have to fly that night to Denver and then be prepared for a Sunday afternoon tilt as the Broncos host the Houston Texans on Boxing Day.

Week 17: Green Bay

By this point, you'll probably be sick of travelling, but I'll save the holy grail for last. You'll fly to Green Bay to see the Packers in the last week of the year take on the Chicago Bears on the frozen tundra!

And that's 32 teams, 31 stadiums in 17 weeks...now a couple of people owe me some money since they bet on me not being able to plan it. :-)

Game 4 Thoughts

Started working on the ultimate football trip 4 the 2010 season, but got impatient with planning, so I'll write about a wacky Game 4 tonight

Hmm...where to begin with a playoff game that has 11 goals between the two teams? LOL...When you think about it, goaltenders weren't 2 blame

We talked this morning about how the Senators had 2 match the Stanley Cup level of intensity that the Penguins have played with since Game 2

Well, the Sens only started to do that after they found themselves down 4-0...and by then, it was way too late because the hole was too deep

The Senators didn't help themselves either by continuing with mental mistakes and stupid penalties even when they finally found their stride

It's simple: The Sens can't take as many stupid penalties, let alone 2 too-many-men calls, if they want to be legitimate playoff contenders!

But as much as people want to put blame on 1/2 different aspects of the Senators performance tonight...it really came down to 1 man again...

The performance by Sidney Crosby in the first four games has made me a believer in people that called him the best in the game...sorry Ovie!

An Embarrassing Night for Strikeforce and CBS

People know that I love watching boxing and MMA and really, it's been a bad couple of weeks for the sport of MMA.

It started with Anderson Silva embrassing the sport with his antics against Demian Maia in Abu Dhabi earlier this month, then Strikeforce managed to embarass the sport even further with three disappointing fights on network TV, followed by Jason "Mayhem" Miller entering the cage and starting a post-match brawl with Strikeforce Middleweight champion Jake shields and his team of goons.

I'll quickly list the many ways in which Strikeforce embarassed themselves on Saturday:

1) The much-hyped Muhammad "King Mo" Lawal/Gegard Moussasi fight was nothing more than a glorified wrestling match with two guys that clearly only 3-round stamina, but we're forced to go 5.

2) Gilbert Melendez/Shinya Aoki was just a complete joke. This can split up into different embarassments.

2a) Aoki clearly wanted the fight to be on the ground and would purposely fall to the ground to bait Melendez into a ground-war.

2b) Aoki finally was able to get Melendez onto the ground, but clearly, the referees were encouraged by Strikeforce officials to keep the action moving, so Aoki was never able to work any ground game before the fighters were told to separate and stand up again.

2c) At one point, Aoki was so desperate to get the fight to the ground that he purposely fell, then slid around on his butt and chased Melendez around before either being told to get up or Melendez obliging him and wrestling on the ground.

3) Clearly, Strikeforce invested a lot in Dan Henderson and was expecting him to beat a smaller champion in Jake Shields, but Henderson looked all of his 39 years old and fans were left to watch 4 out of 5 rounds be nothing short of a wrestling match again.

4) Eventual winner Jake Shields and commentator Frank Shamrock had mutual hatred for each other, but instead of Shamrock acting like a professional commentator, Shamrock used his ability to be on-air to vent his hatred for Shields. This made the fighter look more like a meathead and did nothing to get casual fans or first-time viewers on the side of looking at current/ex-fighters as intelligent athletes.

5) After the Shields/Henderson fight, Gus Johnson is interviewing Shields when fellow Strikeforce competitor, Jason "Mayhem" Miller, comes into the right asking for a rematch and shoving Jake Shields, which leads into a pure street brawl between Miller and Shields' team of goons inside the cage on live national television.

6) Gus Johnson has no idea what to do at this point and mentions to the live audience that MMA is full of guys with lots of testosterone and this is bound to happen from time to time...just a ridiculous thing to say...then uncomfortably pleads with the goons to stop brawling inside the cage because they're on live television

6a) While on the commentating, the three-man team of Gus Johnson, Mauro Ranallo and Frank Shamrock was just awkward to listen to...Johnson and Ranallo are both lead men and you could tell there was a power struggle between the two. Johnson has to be paid more and is brought in because he has a well-known voice, but he clearly has a lack of knowledge of the sport. Ranallo has the knowledge, but you know he's supposed to be the number two, but there were plenty of times where he tried to take over for a short amount of time.

7) Once the brawl was cleaned up, CBS producers clearly had no idea how to finish off the broadcast...Johnson re-tries the interview with Shields only for a bunch of commotion to be happening in the background and the hosts just rush themselves off the air in what has to be as embarrassing of a broadcast for CBS as the joke that was the Kimbo Slice/Seth Petruzelli debacle that ended EliteXC.

If CBS decided to never air an MMA broadcast again, I would completely understand...even though the late Saturday night timeslot between 9-12 p.m. is not reserved for big-time shows, they can do a lot better than what Strikeforce offered them, and in the end, that's just terrible for the sport.

Game 3 Thoughts

Well...judging on the statements from the callers and e-mailers on Sportscall today...looks like the Sens have a ton of things to work on...

Thought the biggest problem was simply the fact that the top players for the Penguins were better than the top players for the Sens again...

Crosby/Malkin have easily been more productive than Spezza/Alfie and Alfie is quite possibly very hurt right now, but where has Spezza been?

Should fans be booing Spezza? Why not? They have every right to....the fans aren't paying good money to see him giveaway the puck like that!

Some people want Brian Elliott's head, but not me...he should have made the stop on the first one, but the other goals weren't solely on him

There were clear breakdowns or losses of one-on-one battles that put Elliott in tough spots...again, gotta look outside the box sometimes...

Erik Karlsson is subject 2 criticism just like anyone else despite his age...he's flying under the radar today despite having a poor game...

One way to look at things...if each team "held serve" on home ice, we would be in the same spot series-wise as we are now...no need 4 panic!

A Glimpse into the World of Andy Sutton

First off, I have to apologize to those who either tweeted me, texted me or even left a quick voicemail right after I made a comment about Andy Sutton's hit...and let them know that I feel like a complete jack-ass...

Here's the quick story:

I watched the game live last night at an "establishment", but I woke up this morning to watch the game a second time so I could take notes and be ready to talk about it a little on Monday morning...

I wrote a quick tweet that said, "Isn't that Andy Sutton hit on Jordan Leopold just a perfect example to KEEP YOUR HEAD UP when you have the puck? Looked bad, but a clean hit"

After that, I received a couple of replies on twitter, several texts and even a quick voicemail that all made the same comment..."Are you an expert?"

I couldn't figure out what the hell was going on...first of all, all these same people commenting were Sens fans (at least I thought so) and I thought my comment was Sens-friendly. And second, why were they so quick to judge this one opinion that I had, considering I offer up about 100 different opinions a week during Sportscall.

Well, being someone that stands up for himself can be a blessing or a curse...and this time, it ended up being a curse as I just ripped apart the few people that had decided to take me to task like that...only to have those same people all point to the Sutton presser as the source of their questioning...oops!

So, quick thoughts on the whole exchange:

First off, my good friend, the Farj (a.k.a. Ian Mendes) has a great scene-setter for the Sutton presser...I urge you to read the quick blog... http://tinyurl.com/y5h68tt

Secondly, whoever that reporter was either was a huge fan of Jordan Leopold/Pittsburgh Penguins or someone related to him...the confrontational "question" that he asked is not something that would be recommended by people running journalism schools.

There was a much better way that he could have asked Sutton about the elbow portion of the hit, such as, "What do you say to those who think you may have hit him with a forearm or elbow?" or "What do you say to those who might think that the hit was a suspendible offense?"

You could understand Sutton's frustration...his team has already lost and he's already answered three questions on the subject and now he has to deal with a question/statement that's personally attacking him...much like I vented at those people asking me if I was an expert...LOL

I just like how Sutton wouldn't get off his point by asking over and over again if this guy was an expert...at one point, reporter answers "yes" just to try and diffuse the situation...wasn't gonna work....Mount Sutton was erupting!

Again, it's a terrible question/statement by the reporter and a frustrated player took him to the woodshed for it...but it got me to thinking about what the world would be like if opinions and thoughts could only be shared by those who had extensive knowledge or a particular subject or field...

Actually, I got to thinking about it after a bunch of you took me to task about whether or not I was an expert...but that's neither here nor there... :-)

First, the question has to be addressed, what constitutes an expert? So, for Andy Sutton, does said reporter have to have played at least one NHL game to hit expert status? Does he have to have played 1000 games? Does he have to have at least 100 fights? Just deciding on who would be experts would be just so tedious and subjective...

Then I guess there would be no such thing as audience participation on a station on The Team 1200 because unless you could prove your expertise was legitimate, you could not be able to voice an opinion either through phone, e-mail or text...Hell, I might not even have a job with the Team because I might not be eligible for expert status myself.

But no, it would go even further than that...Imagine these few scenarios:

1) I go to vote in the next municipal election and walk up to the voting booth

Voting Booth Attendant: Hello, Mr. Melanson. Thank you for voting. But I must ask, are you an expert in the subject of fiscal economy, community relations or municipal government?
Me: Uhhhh....no...
Voting Booth Attendant: Then I'm sorry, you're not eligible to vote today, but we appreciate taking the time to volunteer your time.

2) Since I planned on having dinner after voting, I go with my roommate to have some Italian Dinner

Paul: What do you think of your dinner?
Me: The spaghetti is ok...the meatballs are kind of cold and sauce seems like it was just re-heated...I think I'm gonna return this...
Paul: You should since you're paying good money for that
Waiter: Is everything ok here?
Me: Actually, I think I would like to return this...the meatballs are cold and sauce is no good
Waiter: I'm sorry, but are you an expert in Italian cooking?
Me: Uhhhh....no...
Waiter: Then I'm sorry, you'll just have to eat that since you do not have the knowledge necessary to make us re-do your dinner for you.

3) After having a terrible dinner, I decide to get treat myself to a haircut...I have a date this weekend anyways...

Barber: Hi! How are you?
Me: I'm alright...can I just get my head slightly shaved? Maybe a #3 or #4 razor...
Barber: I'm sorry, are you an expert at hair design?
Me: God...I'm starting to hate that question...no, I'm not...
Barber: Then I'll decide what kind of haircut you get since you don't have the necessary knowledge to make a decision like that...

4) Well, after a terrible day, I'm just gonna get home, but I feel like taking the bus since I don't wanna walk anymore...

Me: (sits down)
Passenger: You look a little tired
Me: Yeah, it's been a tough day...just wish there was a better light-rail system so that I could get home much quicker
Passenger: I'm sorry, but are you an expert on urban planning or public transportation?
Me: Oh my god, if I hear that question one more time...no, I'm not...
Passenger: Then unfortunately, you're not entitled to an opinion on those kinds of subjects

And so on and so forth...have a great rest of the weekend! I'm gonna get away from this damn laptop and all you people who want to know if I'm an expert or not... :-)

Game 2 Thoughts

Isn't that Andy Sutton hit on Jordan Leopold just a perfect example to KEEP YOUR HEAD UP when you have the puck? Looked bad, but a clean hit

And for the record, I probably don't meet the criteria of "an expert" 2 Andy Sutton...more on that subject in the next blog entry in 2 hours

Hard to imagine, but the goal 18 seconds into the hockey game by Peter Regin was probably the worst thing that could have happened to Ottawa

After that, I thought the Penguins dominated the time of possession and the physicality of the hockey game 4 the next 59 minutes, 42 seconds

It also helps when you have 1 of the Top 2 hockey players in the world...how does Sidney Crosby get himself in the right place all the time?

I know people are going 2 be on Spezza for his marking of Sidney Crosby on the winning goal, but that's just a case of Sidney creating magic

I thought both Marc-Andre Fleury/Brian Elliott were much better in Game 2...Fleury didn't have as much 2 do, but Elliott made some key saves

I'm terribly evil, but I can't stop laughing when I see a mascot hurt himself or fall...I was in absolute tears after watching the 2nd video

Thoughts After Game 1's

Except for Chicago/Nashville starting tonight...we have a little sense of how each series is going to shape up over the next couple of weeks

Pit/Ott: Game #1 proved the gap between the 2 teams is not as big as some may have suggested...both teams have tons of room 4 improvement...

Was/Mon: Did the Caps take the Habs lightly? The Habs can't keep Ovechkin off the shot count or the score sheet forever...good start though!

NJ/Phi: The Flyers put up only 14 shots and won...goes 2 show that goaltending gap between Brodeur and Boucher is not as big as suggested...

Bos/Buf: A great preview of what we'll see for the rest of this series...Ryan Miller and Tuukka Rask dominating...it's going 2 be a grind...

SJ/Col: Uh-oh! Could this be another demise of the Sharks 4 yet another season? Probably not....but the questions are being asked already...

Van/LA: Like I figured, both teams are pretty evenly split...first game goes to overtime...questions answered by both Bobby Lou and J. Quick

Pho/Det: The Coyotes proved 2 be a resilient team once again by winning the first game of the series...they just keep proving everyone wrong

Goalie Analysis with Jonny Abbott

Anyone who listened to the show this morning (or read the last part of my last blog entry) will know that I thought Marc-Andre Fleury didn't have as bad of a game as people will suggest.

My thought was that he was the victim of poor defense from Sergei Gonchar on the first goal, the victim of a great shot from Chris Neil and poor defensive coverage on Goal #2, a victim of bad luck on Goal #3 by Chris Kelly, a victim of a great screen by Mike Fisher and poor defensive coverage on Goal # by Erik Karlsson and then the fifth one...well, I don't have any defense for that one, that was bad... :-)

But then I realized...maybe I should talk to someone who has played the position at a high competitive level and get their thoughts on it...maybe I would learn something about the position...

I looked around the building and really couldn't find anyone, but sitting at our 20-20 desk was good ol' Opie himself, Jonny Abbott...that's the guy I need!

Not only did he play goaltender at a pretty high level...he managed to do that while wearing no-cup in the process...he also has easily supplanted Kenny Walls as the Number One goaltender for the Team 1200 Hockey Club and in media hockey in general...I won't find anyone else with any more credibility than that...

So, I took away Jonny from doing his actual job to help me dissect all 9 goals in the hockey game last night...here was a snipet of his thoughts

Goal 1 by Evgeni Malkin to make it 1-0 Pens:

Jonny: Tough Spot for Elliott since there's lots of traffic in front. He was actually in position to make the save if he had stuck his glove out, but he just couldn't see the puck coming to react in time

Goal 2 by Peter Regin to tie the game at 1:

Jonny: Bad rebound by Fleury, but you expect Gonchar to be a little more physical with Regin. He still can't kick the rebound out to that spot though.

Goal 3 by Chris Neil to make it 2-1 Sens:

Jonny: That's a bad one for Fleury. He went down early. Good shot by Neil, but you can't let that puck in on that side, especially in a tie game where you're trying to get the momentum on your side.

Goal 4 by Chris Kelly to make it 3-1 Sens:

Jonny: Nothing you can do there...move on...actually, did you notice that the 3rd line was out there for the power-play?

Me: We talked about it and it just hit me now...that's pretty ridiculous that I didn't even notice that...LOL

Goal 5 by Evgeni Malkin to make it 3-2 Sens:

Jonny: Can't really do much about that since Phillips let him walk in to be that close, plus it's deflects off his leg.

Goal 6 by Erik Karlsson to make it 4-2 Sens:

Jonny: Hard to blame Fleury here. First off, he stuck having to peek through a terrific screen by not only Fisher, but the Pittsburgh defenceman as well. So, he doesn't know where the puck is. Then the puck is shot and doesn't even hit him. If you look close, you'll see that it hits a leg in front and caroms to one side. That's why Fleury is so slow to react to it. He's waiting for the puck to hit him and then react. So, for all he knows, the puck could still be at the point. Once he realizes where it is, it's too late. If he was in the butterfly position instead of doing the splits to cover the bottom part, he would have had a much better chance to getting across, but because he's doing the splits, he can't get across nearly as quick. Tough goal for Fleury.

Goal 7 by Craig Adams to make it 4-3 Sens:

Jonny: Bad goal for Elliott. Yes, the shot was accurate, but if he had the right angle, that's not an issue at all. He has to be much more aggressive with the shooter. Does he even have a passing outlet that Elliott has to worry about?

Me: I thought there was a trailer, but I'm not sure how close he is to the play (He's actually nowhere to be found...)

Jonny: Yep, no other option, so Elliott just has to concentrate better on that one...

Goal 8 by Jarkko Ruutu to make it 5-3 Sens:

Me: Here's the one that I thought that was the worst for Fleury

Jonny: Actually, that's one that people shouldn't be so hard on him about. That's a tough save for him to make. First off, the defence should never let that pass from Neil get across like that, but once it does, Fleury has so much ice to cover in one push to get in the right position. He actually pushes off enough to get close to the right spot. Not too many goaltenders in the world can do that. Just unfortunate for him that the puck managed to go through him.

I'm pretty surprised from that response, but it does put things into a little perspective for me...

Goal 9 by Alex Goligoski to make it 5-4 Sems:

Jonny: Can I go back to work now? :-)

I'm getting used to this e-mail business...

I got a couple of e-mails today that disagreed with what I had to say...I never want those people to think that I'm just ducking their e-mails by not mentioning them on the air...it's just a case that the show gets going and we sometimes can't get to them...

So, let me get to a couple of those from today:

1) From Chris

Hi Phil,

So my question to you is…you saw the guy on Laurier and Elgin….what did you do? Did you cheer? Or did you just stare at him? My point is did you start getting involved at that time with him, or did you just wait to see what would happen before moving on? You can’t get on the fans here about not getting involved without looking in the mirror first.

Good e-mail, but I'll give you a short answer, followed by a long answer...

Short Answer: I'm a Leafs fan... :-)

Long Answer:

I just kept walking and did stare at him, but as my short answer will tell you, I'm still a Leafs fan at heart. So I have no rooting interest in the Sens.

That being said, don't take those four words in the short answer and think that I have a vendetta against the Sens or that I wish them to lose as swiftly as possible. In actuality, I don't really care if Pittsburgh or Ottawa wins.

I'll just call it the way I see it and if you agree, that's good, and if you don't, that's alright too...just call or e-mail in and let me know why instead of just sitting on your hands...

2) From Evan

2 quick things for the show killer. Anyone who has played hockey will tell you a short side goal is a bad goal no matter the quality of the shot. Its not game 1 and 5 that are important its 1 and 4. Game 4 is by far the most important game in any 7 game series. thanks fellas

Answer: Sounds like I won't get you off the point about short-side goals if you're just willing to lump all of them together...not gonna try and get you off that point anymore...

As far as the Game importance is concerned, you can't just write in that Game 4 is the more important one and not give a reason or two to back up your argument...if you have a sound argument instead of just disagreeing with me in order to be a smart-ass, then I welcome your comments...

I think Game 5 is as important as Game 1 because one of two scnearios usually happens:

a) A team is down 3 games to 1 and the team facing deficit is in a must-win to save their season, or...
b) The series is tied at 2 and it really comes down a best of 3 with winner of Game 5 having the first chance to eliminate the other team in Game 6

3) From Roger

Rebound control is not "guessing" where the puck is. Rather (like Karelson's goal) is for Flurry to look right and left (where large openings are to the net). Looked like 3-4 seconds until Karelson danced in front of the net, picked up the loose puck and put it in (nearly stopped).

Answer: I know what rebound control is, but thank you for clarifying it for me and everyone else...

Problem with Karlsson's goal is that Fleury can't see where the puck is coming from because of a great screen from Mike Fisher...if he can't see where the puck is coming from, he certainly can't be asked to decide which side of the ice is going to kick the puck away to...

It wasn't 3-4 seconds after the rebound, it was at most a second, but it only seemed that long because he was so wide open with a wide-open cage to shoot into...

Like I said in the show, people expect way too much from goaltenders sometimes and last night was a perfect example with Marc-Andre Fleury...

Yes, he gave up the back-breaker to Ruutu to make it a 5-3 game and it's one that he would like to have back, but the other four goals have to do with defensive breakdowns that he has no control over...his D has to do a better job in front of him...

Another entry coming up later... :-)

Enough Rob/Paul Bashing

There were some very good e-mails today as to why the Senators would win the series...of course, there's only so much we can do in a two-hour show, so I was only able to read a couple..

Here's 5 good ones from this morning in no particular order:

1) From Phil

Hey Gents,

I am probably a little late but here is my prediction:

This series will be a homer series until game 7 with Ottawa stealing one on the road finally and here is why:

1) The Clouston factor: We’ve seen coach clou’s incredible ability to adjust “in game” many times this year. I think his keen sense will pay huge dividends for the Sens when he has days to prepare for the same team in a 7 games series.

2) The Hunger factor: The Sens have much more to prove from Elliott to, Alfie, Spezz and co. While the Pens’ have been there done that already with two straight trips to the finals and may have less to prove.

3) The Malkin Factor: The injury to Malkin will be big as he will be forced to deal with Sutton this year who will be very physical with him. Malkin has been a Sens killer historically as Crosby has always had to face the shut down pair and that will be tough for him again.

2) From Ben

Hey Lee and Phil,

There are four main reasons that I believe that the Senators will knock the Penguins out this year.

1. Fatigue: 1993 repeat in the works. The Pens have played two very long seasons in row, with the Olympics adding even more fatigue. Just like when they lost to the Islanders in 1993 after the back to back years in 1991 and 1992, the Pens will not have enough in the tank.

2. Team Sacrifice: I think the Sens are more committed to each other than are the Pens. The core group of the Senators want it more and will fight it out together like they did in 2007. The Alfie celebrations pulled them together even more. The Pens had a divided Russia-Canada dressing room and if the Sens win game 1 or 2, I can see a figures getting pointed in the Pens locker room.

3. Defence wins. The Sens defence can shutdown the Penguins. Phillips, Volchy, Sutton, and Carkner are going to be hard to play against and Karlson will add a little offence to really hurt the Penguins.

4. Clusten's disciplined team will stick with the game plan, while I think the Penguins will start to scramble when they get down early

3) From Katie

Three years ago, Alanis Morissette was a natural choice to sing the anthems in the Stanley Cup finals at Scotiabank Place. An Ottawa native, she proudly stepped onto the ice wearing a Senators jersey and smoothly handled both anthems, including the French section of O Canada, without a hitch.

But, since that moment before the puck dropped on June 4, 2007, for Game 4 of the series, the Senators have not won a single game in the Stanley Cup playoffs.
The team lost that game, and the one following it in Anaheim.
The following year, the Senators were swept in four games by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Last year, they didn’t even get onto the ice for the playoffs.

Have no fear, the "Curse of Alanis" is broken, I have just burned an Alanis doll! GO SENS GO!!!!! Sens will win in 5!!

4) From Connie

Hey guys,

I think if the sens can get the split, they will win it in 6. This talk about our players having no playoff experience is bogus in my opinion. They have played 82 games all season and if they take one game at a time, it shouldn't matter if it's the playoffs or not. I also think Clouston will have them ready--he has been a great coach all year, and this time last year Dan Bylsma had the same playoff experience as Clouston has now.

It also has to go like this:

Spezza will score
and the A-Train will hit
Alfie will dangle
and we'll get the split.
Crosby will whine,
Malkin will be a ghost
and Elliott will come up with the saves that mean the most!

GO SENS GO

And final one from Corey in Farrhaven

Hi Fellas

I believe the Sens will win in 6 and here’s why…The Sens should be the hungrier team not just because of being out of the playoffs last year and embarrassed by this opponent the year before but also because most “experts” never expected them to get here. I think personally players like Spezza will be out to prove themselves against the games best talent. Especially after the cold shoulder from Team Canada while his former wing man got a top spot on that team.

I believe the Pens will try and exploit Karlsson and Campoli’s size and playoff inexperience by trying to funnel the puck down their side and may play into a Sens strength as the larger d-partners of those two will likely get away with some interference now that it’s playoff time. I think Clouston has shown that his in game strength is adaptation and recognition of who is playing well. The exact opposite of Jacques Martin, the coach under whom the Sens playoff performance reputation was forged. In short gentlemen I think the Sens are underestimated. If Ruutu can get guys off their game, Elliot plays well and our forwards forecheck the Pens D with relentless brutality the Sens will win in Six!

Praise Alfie!

Enjoy the game tonight! :-)

Rob and Paul Callers

First of two posts today...gonna get away from the usual twitter format...

For those who missed the show this morning, we gave away two tickets to the Team 1200 Suite for Game 3 on Sunday night to the caller/e-mailer with the best take on the Sens/Pens series.

Two callers, Rob and Paul, really stood out, but not in a positive fashion...

Rob tried the 80's wrestling promo approach and tried to scream as loud as possible without really saying much of anything, sort of like this...



Then, right after, Paul came on with much less intensity, but a well-researched call...just never good to start a call with "I have 11 points to make..."

Of course, people listening in were quick to react and I did have a few favourite e-mails...

In no particular order:

1) From Ryan:

Hey Rob

Stop telling us you're gonna tell us something and tell us something!

And of course, Lee perks up with any over ambitious macho man-esque take.

Bottom line, I'll take a page from John Madden and make it plain and simple, we gotta score more goals than the other team to win. That's always been the issue in the past, putting the puck in the net.

Sens in 6.

2) From Mike:

Finally, the callers are bringing some energy and the typical sit on your hands fan are knocking them down. Get of the wagon and make room for the real fans. GO SENS GO and PRAISE ALFIE.

3) From Zeke (Mayor of Stittsville)...is he really the mayor? :-)

Are you guys kidding me? Listening to that wrestler and Mr. 11 points is brutal.. I'll give you one point. Pens in 4. Sorry, give the tickets to a homer but give me a break. This thing is over before it starts.

4) From Fred:

Lee, that Ric Flair take was really compelling. Thanks for keeping us up to date on the sport of wrestling. Phil, do us sport fans all a favour and punch Lee in the head. Thanks!

But I do have to put this out there...after the show ended, Paul e-mailed in to defend himself...here's Paul defense:

I wanted to scream and be loud but unfortunately my co-workers in the
cubicle farm next to me would probably throw ugly Maple leaf displays at
me.

I'll make a quick comment...I don't think people were necessarily all over you for a lack of volume or intensity...just try and turn 11 points into 3 succinct ones next time... :-)

Best E-Mails of the Day in a couple of hours...

Down in the Dumps

The title is misleading...I'm not down in the dumps at all...I'm referring to a few Sens fans that are tired of the pundits picking the Pens

Very few people outside the 613 area code are picking the Senators...but fans that are being affected by it have 2 know it's not personal...

It's just not realistic 2 bet against a team that won the championship a year ago and had a better record than their first-round opponent...

I hate waiting!

After getting used to seeing hockey every single night between October and April, it's certain to feel like an eternity to go 2 days without

Maybe I'm subconsciously finding reasons for it, but the more I wait, the more I'm convincing myself that Philly is going 2 upset the Devils

It's been two days and I still haven't found anyone willing to wager on the Coyotes...pretty ridiculous 4 a team that has home ice advantage

Quick NHL Playoff Predictions

After a regular season that seemingly never ends, we're finally here and know the 16 teams that have a chance at 16 wins and the Stanley Cup

I figured I would give my twitter-like predictions before having a chance 2 explain my picks fully on Sportscall on Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday

SJ/Col: Same story for SJ...tons of talent, but can they get past the mental hurdles? Luckily, they face a team that's just happy 2 be there

Chi/Nas: Good first round opponent for Chicago...the Predators will make them battle-tested, but NAS is a team that's simply not as talented

Van/LA: Two very talented teams, but the series hinges on whether Roberto Luongo plays up to capability...but that's still not a given to me

Phx/Det: Tough spot for Phoenix 2 face a team with so much experience and ability...the ol' saying goes: "To win, you first have to lose..."

Was/Mon: The only question to me is whether Jaroslav Halak can steal a game for the Habs....this is the series most likely to end in a sweep

NJ/Phi: Philly represents the great unknown...inconsistent, but start 0-0 again...I'll probably flip-flop on who wins til the series starts!

Buf/Bos: Simple equation to me: A Vezina Trophy winner in Ryan Miller + a team that scored the 2nd least amount of goals = a short series...

Pit/Ott: Sorry Sens fans, but can't find anything where the Sens are significantly better...we know why the Pens are the defending champs...

Flyers are in!

Flyers win! Win the shootout 2-1...winning shootout marker by Claude Giroux...Olli Jokinen is stopped by Boucher to preserve the victory...

Gaborik stoned by Boucher with under a minute to go in the overtime...Flyers fans can point to that save as to why they play again this week

Sam Rosen on MSG: "The Rangers season rests in the hands of Olli Jokinen"...After that statement, you had 2 know the Rangers season was over

Predator 2

It's one of those lazy Saturdays and I have nothing better 2 do...so I end up watching one of the worst sequels of all-time in Predator 2...

Why would Predator venture out of his jungle confines to kill a bunch of drug lords/henchmen in L.A. and then the cops that try to stop him?

How did they take a great action movie like Predator and just **** it up so badly the second time around? The storyline is just so stupid...

UFC 112 Preview

The UFC makes its first venture to the Middle East when UFC 112 goes from Abu Dhabi on Saturday afternoon with a couple of big title fights!

Anderson Silva will take on Demian Maia and B.J. Penn takes on Frankie Edgar...both Silva and Penn are heavy favourites and rightfully so...

Silva is the best in the game and should show it again tomorrow...Maia has to get the fight to the ground so he can try to win by submission

Frankie Edgar has his hands full with Penn...he has to find a way to beat someone better than him in every aspect of the game...Penn by KO

Matt Hughes vs. Renzo Gracie is the 3rd big fight of the night....both fighters are over-the-hill, but Hughes has way more in the tank still

Masters Setting Up Beautifully

Of course, everyone is focused on how Tiger is going 2 handle the immense with playing the weekend at a major and if he can come from behind

Other storylines: Can England finally get a major champ they're so desperate for? Can Y.E Yang/K.J. Choi bring a 2nd straight major to Asia?

Will a young gun (Ricky Barnes/Anthony Kim) break the mold of experienced champions or does Phil get another green jacket? This will be fun!

My Broadcast Idols

Listening to the Jim Rome show and Sunday Night Baseball play-by-play voice Jon Miller was on as a guest...he was one of my idols growing up

I could listen to Jon Miller talk about baseball all day long and it took me back to when I was a young guy dreaming of talking on the radio

I'll share some other play-by-play idols in not only baseball, but all sports...there's a handful that I have all the time in the world for!

Hockey: As much as Sens fans hate him, Bob Cole was always a favourite of mine...it just seems like a more important game every time he's on

Basketball/Football: He's not as famous, but Kevin Harlan has 2 be 1 of the best in the business...he has such a unique pacing and intensity

Baseball: I love listening to Vin Scully doing a game for the Dodgers...not many guys can carry a game by themselves, but he does it so well

Other: Hello friends...because of his versatility in golf/basketball/football and any other sports he does, Jim Nantz has so much respect...

If I can have even a third of the careers that these guys have already had...I'll be very content with that....just living the dream here...

Tiger Thoughts After Round One

As I talked about on-air this morning, I felt pulled in 2 directions in watching Tiger going through his first 18 holes at Augusta yesterday

Still think he was a complete jackass over the past few months of scandal and nothing he ever does will ever erase that from my mind, but...

I was upbeat about 2-3 of Tiger's great shots...I realized that I might not respect Tiger the man, but you have to respect Tiger the golfer!

Tiger Thoughts

I write this as Tiger is getting set to tee off for his first round at the Masters...the curiosity surrounding his game will finally go away

I wouldn't have made him the favourite to win due to all the question marks, but he has way too much natural talent to simply discard him...

But I see why Vegas put small odds on him...they don't want to have to pay anymore to bettors if he manages to prove us all wrong yet again!

MLB Regular Season Thoughts in 1400 characters

I've wanted to do this for a couple of days now, but just got so far behind on things around here that it just had to keep getting put aside

I'll do so by giving the winner of each division and why (in 140 characters), then give you the wild card for each league and why...let's go

AL East: Have to give it to the Yankees...most complete team in baseball...yes I know they spend the most, but at least they've spent wisely

AL Central: Still like the Twins to win out despite losing Joe Nathan...they can close by committee and rely comfortably on Morneau/Mauer...

AL West: People are talking about what the Angels lost in the off-season with Lackey/Guerrero gone, but they still have a formidable team...

NL East: You would have to be a fool not to pick the Phillies...second most-rounded team in baseball and best team in the National League...

NL Central: Much like the NL East, one team dominates over everyone and it's the St. Louis Cardinals...good lineup and great 1-2 starters...

NL West: Colorado Rockies should come out of this division, but can't afford to have a prolonged slump like they did starting the '09 season

AL Wild Card: Boston Red Sox is a close 2nd to the Yanks...they have a better/deeper starting five, but have much less power in their lineup

NL Wild Card: Love the Atlanta Braves! So much great youth working its way through the system and Jason Heyward/Tommy Hanson are just studs!

Duke/Butler Thoughts

Even though I'm a fan of Duke, for some reason, I feel dirty after seeing them win last night...guess Butler was that big of a Cinderella...

Butler made Duke play their basketball...forced Duke's Big 3 into tough shots and subsequent misses and yet Duke still wins the championship

If you watched the final seconds, you can't tell me your heart and breathing stopped as that last heave went up and hit rim...what an ending

Exciting MLB Opening Day

Vernon Wells off to a great start with a 2-run shot in his first at-bat of the year....really needs to step up if the Jays wanna go even 500

The Nats picking up where they left off from last season...losing 11-1 in the first game against Philly...Halladay must love the run support

Loved Tim Lincecum pitching for San Fran against Houston tonight...still can't believe the Jays could have had him for Alex Rios straight up

Can they get to .500?

Gonna be a tough year 4 the Jays...at least Alex Anthopolous has them going in a clear direction...JP failed at doing that for way too long!

Sick stat from Bob Elliott from in Sun article today...Jays starting 5 paid just over 4 million this season...Yankees' starting five: 63 mil

Vegas has the Jays winning 71 games this year...I have them winning 77, but it's not good when a .500 season would be considered a good year

Much Love!

So much pressure now after the twitter love shown by @ian_mendes...thanks to all the new followers...i'll try to not annoy you too much :-)

I'm so close to triple-digits in followers....nowhere near the 1400+ that the Farj has...I still think I get to the century mark by tonight!

Get the sense Sens fans aren't sweating the last 3 games, but it's so important they play well this week to set the tone for the first round

Baseball is finally here!

It's been too long...finally going to get to see a meaningful baseball game again...Yanks look good to repeat again as champs this season...

Love the feeling of tinkering with my fantasy baseball lineup for the first time this season...Yankees v. Red Sox to kick off 2010 season...

Stinker on Long Island

You knew the Sens were due for a letdown after scratching and clawing so much to lock down a spot for the playoffs, but that was BAD hockey!

The more I watch Blake Comeau, the more I like his game...could be a great compliment to Tavares for years...Isles played to win yesterday...

Have to give it to @ian_mendes - The only one on the Ottawa Citizen prediction panel to have the Islanders winning yesterday...all hail Farj

Mantra for @ian_mendes - If you're right 52% of the time, you're wrong 48% of the time...make sure to tell the "Homers" of the world that...

Bernard Hopkins vs. Roy Jones Tonight!

These two are up there on my favourite boxers of all-time list, but sadly, I just can't get over the fact that it's about 10 years too late!

Boxing fans might be surprised that I call Bernard one of my favourites....but I just love how cerebral he always is...just ask Kelly Pavlik

And there shouldn't be any question has to why I enjoy Roy Jones as much I do...it's just too bad that his best years were over a decade ago

It's actually pretty sad to see how far Roy Jones has tumbled since being so dominant around the start of the decade....he was just so good!

At this point, Hopkins doesn't need to waste time with a fight like this...Jones is so far past his prime...beating him accomplishes nothing

You can tell this is personal for Hopkins...it's the great monkey that has plagued his career and psyche...it's clear he needs redemption...

Does he really get it from beating a washed up fighter? Nope....but he'll win by knockout...just depends how long he wants to embarass Jones

Bonus video: A lot of people hated this guy, but I liked the excitement that he brought to the ring....the very best of Prince Naseem Hamed!

Random Friday Thoughts

Great quote from Bill Simmons on ESPN.com: "I watch every Red Sox game; I don't need advanced metrics to tell me that Rocco Baldelli sucks."

Love the Redskins...3-way battle for the #1 RB spot...Larry Johnson v. Fast Willie v. Portis...true battle 2 see who's the best of the worst

New Pet Peeve: People trying 2 J-walk while you're going through a green...only for moron to yell at you for not giving right of way...idiot

Love This Weather!

Isn't it amazing to be able to just walk around with a t-shirt/jeans and feel comfortable....and it's only April 2nd! Thanks global warming!

Gorgeous day! Love people still in light jackets on a 25C day...a memo to those people: You're allowed to come out of your winter shell now!

Also the 1st day 4 guys in cars 2 whistle at girls...you've heard it before, but why does the guy in the passenger seat make the most noise?

Why do they make it so difficult?!?

I'm not a coffee or sugar kind of guy...I loved sugar as a kid, but now, I can just pass up dessert and not lose a wink of sleep about it...

So, my apologies if this is something that has been griped about by every single one of you, but doing this task was a new experience for me

Just attempted to "Roll Up" The Rim for the first time in my life....a question for Tim Horton's...why do you make it so ****in' difficult?

I swear I came dangerously close to ripping off the nail on my thumb trying to roll that damn thing up...only to find the words "Play Again"

I wasn't expecting to win, yet, I felt infuriated after that bit of effort to roll up that damn coffee cup...so, why do people keep playing?

I guess that was just a reminder to stick with avoiding coffee and sugars from whoever is watching over me...could be a new pet peeve... :-)