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Keslord! Makes an Appearance. |
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With a total of 5 goals scored last night it seemed like the 86 Oilers & Flames were playing last night. Both teams showed uncharacteristic offensive prowess in regulation, at least for this series before forcing overtime.
For the Canucks it was a much improved effort from all areas where they not only controlled much of the play along with the shots. However, just like the previous two games the Canucks gave up the first goal because of a mistake on the PP, along with the game tying goal in much the same manner. Nashville is almost uncanny in their ability as a team to convert even the most benign mistakes by their opposition.
Ryan Kesler had his most dominating game of the post season as he scored two goals including the game winner. However the story which seemed to make the headlines was not his deflection in front of the other-wordly Rinne on the PP but how the PP came to be.
Trotz, called in 'chicken winging'. Many called it soft. Some called it brutal and certainly the faithful in Nashville will not like that call but it was correct. What isn't correct is how consistently that call is made. Weber took that penalty because of one reason, Kesler moved his feet and his body along with playing the puck. Had he not played the puck or stood still trying to embellish the hold (as he has been known to do) there is no arm in the air. But Weber hit him grabbed his shoulder then put his stick around and under his arm and held on. How many times have we seen a defensemen let go of his stick and put his arms in the air in similar circumstances? If the Ballard hip check was a penalty, what Weber did was akin to mugging a grandmother, oh right it wasn't in OT.
Some are taking the position the call shouldn't have been made because of OT- I had three PM's via twitter from media proclaiming just that, 'because it's OT'. Then there are posts in forums around the internet proclaiming how hockey can't be taken seriously for new comers if a ref will determine the fate of a game. Poppycock!! (to Quote Sherman Potter)
I have never seen a Line Judge in the NFL think about the time on the clock and score in the game to determine a holding call, or offside or even pass interference. They call it no matter when they see it. If you want consistency from the NHL officials there are two courses of action, more penalties or less. Take your pick, it won't be more consistent calls.
The converse point to what I just made is the Canucks and fans, along with management should not complain about officiating again after that call. I'm the first guy to complain about bad calls. I'm biased too! But I won't say the refs caused a loss because of calls. The players are too good too let one or two adversarial situations determine the fate of games.
I'm happy with forward adjustments which were made last night and I think AV should run with those lines again. While they didn't score the Sedins played well created many chances, I think it's a matter of time before they get on the scoresheet now. Rome and Alberts were not terrible last night but I can't say the same for Edler. A bit scary to say the least.
Higgins played an incredible game and seems to have found his role and niche on this team. He has been a welcome addition in the post season and certainly offsets the loss of Malhotra. I thought Luongo had another solid game and was once again unlucky in front of the net with the tying goal. If he continues his play at this level, should the Canucks lose the series it will not be pinned on him.
The good news is the Canucks put the pressure right back on the Preds for Thursday night. Let's see what this team learned from game four of the last series as I'm still not so sure they truly understand how to close out a game given the fianl10 minutes last night.
Enjoy the game!
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Vancouver Canucks Blogger • 
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