HabsCast Hockey Blog

Well folks the title says it all. Captain K really came out strong in his first game since, well, last year. Koivu as always played with a lot of character … especially for a preseason game. Now, I’ll be honest with you, I didn’t see the first period. I would have loved to but I had school until 8PM and unfortunately playing hooky wasn’t an option. So I got to the game by the end of the 1st period, which isn’t so bad considering Halak let in two goals on only two shots.

For the two periods I was there … I gathered some notes and tidbits of information … and I would like to take some time to rant. First off, I was not impressed with the following players: Francis Boullion, Steve Begin, and (I’m going to get some heat for this) Guillaume Latendresse. Francis Boullion can’t pass and his defensive skills are mediocre at best. This guy really needs to shape up or he could find himself on waivers or traded. Steve Begin is past his prime. Perhaps if it were still the “old” NHL he might be of value but the bottom line is that Begin cannot pass or score and can only hit and cause penalties. I really think that Gainey should trade him to make room for someone like Chipchura. Finally, Latendresse really disappointed me tonight, not only for the penalties he took but for the way he played. Hockey Rule number one; don’t go through the middle with your head down! because if you do, your asking to end up like Eric Lindros or Richard Zednik. Latendresse should consider himself lucky for coming out of that hit alive. Latendresse also dished out some nice hits but rightfully got called for boarding on a couple of occasions. There’s a fine line between being intense and being just plain stupid. Lastly, Latendresse really needs to stick to the basics and put himself in front of the net where he belongs. What I saw from Latendresse tonight was a Kovalev wanabe. He pretty much tried to make moves he has no place making.

Ok! I’m done being a Debby Downer … so here’s some positives … Saku Koivu is my hero! I don’t care what the media says about this guy because he is the heart and soul of this team … who cares that he doesn’t speak French. Captains aren’t defined by their language but by their heart and leadership … Saku has both. Tonight he played a solid game and had arguably the highlight of the night. One other positive was Carey Price … his remarkable save in the third period … where he made a pad save then immediately snatched the rebound out of the air. (I almost shed a tear)

My final note … before i fall asleep … Is that I want to apologize to our loyal PodCast fans because unfortunately … due to some technical difficulties … we were unable to record tonight. Therefore, the first episode of Season 2 will air on the 20th rather than the 19th … I know, I hate us too!

So on to the next game … Canadiens VS Islanders … where Alex Kovalev and Team A will try to go 2-0.

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