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Posts Tagged Mike Modano

Surprise – Players Hate Mike Milbury Too

Dec 6

Posted by Matt in News, Soap Box | No Comments

One could certainly wonder why a company like NBC pays guys like Pierre McGuire, Eddie Olczyk, and Mike Milbury so much money to do commentary for the NHL on NBC. For starters, I don’t think a single fan likes to hear any of them talk. We’re often annoyed by their misguided attempts to analyze a game, and would definitely prefer to watch our team play on the local Fox Sports channel rather than see them get a taste of national tv and have to listen to the NBC crew. This gets even worse for your bigger hockey markets such as Chicago, Detroit and Philadelphia. They often see several more nationally televised games than a small market team so NBC can get big ratings.

For a long time, however, I thought we were alone as hockey fans. It seemed as if no one understood our anguish. I was proven wrong the other day though, as Mike Modano sent out the tweet below. While he may no longer be lacing up the skates professionally, Modano now has a better understanding of what NHL fans have endured for several years now. We certainly hope this tweet helps to send a message to both Hockey Night in Canada as well as NBC Sports. The fact is, no one appreciates seeing guys like Mike Milbury on their broadcast. This “character” he seems to play, which for all I know might unfortunately be his true personality, comes off incredibly fraudulent in his attempts to stir the pot. Each time I hear Milbury speak, I’m reminded of a great movie quote from Billy Madison, “what you’ve just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.”

So props to you Mr. Modano, thank you for speaking the truth. Perhaps one day we can live in a world with no Mike Milbury on tv, and a respectable NHL on NBC crew.

Modano hating Mike Milbury on Twitter

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Nicklas Lidstrom Reaches 1,500 Games Milestone

Oct 22

Posted by EB in News | No Comments

Nicklas Lidstrom, the Captain of the Detroit Red Wings, will reach the 1,500 regular season games played milestone tonight against the Washington Capitals. Leading into the game, Lidtsrom has a regular season output of 255 goals, 856 assists to total 1,111 points. His production matches his smart play as he has a plus 432 rating, the highest plus-minus rating in the NHL since 1991-1992.

Lidtsrom’s milestone is accompanied by his resume of success. Seven Norris Trophys in the last 10 seasons of play, first European-born player to win the Con Smyth Trophy (2002) and has risen the Stanley Cup 4 times (1997, 1998, 2002, 2008).

The 1,500 games played milestone will put Lidstrom at 14th overall, surpassing last year’s teammate Mike Modano who has 1,499. Lidstrom’s next jump will come at 1,514 games which would tie long-time teammate and friend Steve Yzerman. It is possible that Lidtsrom at the completion of this season, could surpass 10th overall Alex Delvecchio at 1,549 games. It seems like the records are Detroit Red Wings dominant. Chris Chelios is 5th overall with 1,651 games while the most games played is held by Mr. Hockey himself Gordie Howe. Howe has played 1,767 games.

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Mike Modano Retire?

Jul 16

Posted by EB in News, Rumors | 2 Comments

If Modano retires, life won't be so bad spending time with wife Willa Ford.

With the free agency pool depleted of all the big names, with the exceptions of both Steven Stamkos and Drew Doughty, it is easy to miss the remaining crop of players. Once such player is that of veteran Mike Modano, who, will be faced with a decision to retire or not.

Modano, who is currently 41 years of age, broke into the NHL in the ’80-’90 season with the Minnesota North Stars. His impact on the team was immediately felt.  Playing 80 games, Modano posted 29 goals and 46 assists for an impressive 75 point season. Today, the veteran has accumulated 561 goals and 813 assists in 1,499 games played. His production holds the record for most goals (561) and most points (1,374) by an American-born player in NHL history. In the ’98 – ’99 season, Modano lead the Dallas Stars to their first ever Stanley Cup Championship, the only to his name currently.

Last season Modano played for the Detroit Red Wings, his first non Minnesota North Stars/ Dallas Stars team. In 40 games played, he totaled an unimpressive 15 points. Fans would credit the low production to a string of bad luck. Modano suffered a cut tendon in his wrist from the skate of Columbus Blue Jacket’s R.J. Umberger. Ultimately needing surgey, Modano’s injury sidelined him for 41 games.

The bad luck seemed to continue after returning to the ice as Red Wing’s Head Coach Mike Babcock scratched Modano on multiple occasions to rotate younger, grittier players into the lineup. Ultimately, Modano was such a last resort that at one point in the playoffs, Babcock opted go with a injured Johan Franzen who could barely skate, instead of a healthy Modano. For many, the writing was on the wall for the veteran player.

The critics would say the fairytale ending with the Dallas Stars is over, his legacy slightly damaged this past season. Perhaps it is time to hang up the skates, acknowledge his best years are behind him, and begin a respectable after career-career in the front office of the Dallas Stars organization.

The fans would point out he will not be the workhorse of yesteryear, but put him on the third line and give him some powerplay time, Modano will surely produce 30 points in an injury free season.

Modano is expected to make a decision within the next few weeks if he plans to come back for another season as a player. It seems unlikely that the Detroit Red Wings will sign him, but other teams would most likely express interest in the still, very talented player.

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The Case of the Missing Mike Modano

May 6

Posted by EB in News, Soap Box | 3 Comments

The Detroit Red Wings, after sweeping the Phoenix Coyotes in the first round, are now one game away from a potential sweep at the hands of the San Jose Sharks. Déjà vu perhaps? A trending storyline though is the absence of Mike Modano from the Detroit roster. As a home town fan, I wonder why he is not playing.

Mike Modano signed with the Detroit Red Wings this year in attempt to not only avoid retirement, but to win the one and only, Lord Stanley’s Cup. Modano’s season though was cut short (no pun intended) due to a freak injury; his wrist cut accidently by the skate of Columbus forward R.J. Umberger.

Modano only saw 40 games throughout the season due to the injury, leaving him little time to mesh with the Detroit style of play. Already a competitive roster with Jiri Hudler, Patrick Eaves, Drew Miller and veteran Kris Draper competing for ice time, Modano never really received a chance.

Since returning to the roster from the injury, Modano played 20 games until the end of the season. In those games Modano contributed for 2 goals and 5 assists. To the untrained eye, you would think this is a low production for such a talented player. Modano averaged roughly around 11 minutes a game, not enough to really get the motor going. Still though, Modano was utilized on the power play, and to his talents, 4 of the 7 points since returning were all on the power play.

So the question still arises why isn’t Mike Modano playing in the playoffs? This is an answer only Head Coach Mike Babcock knows unfortunately. Modano did see one game in the first round against Phoenix, and yes, Modano reached the scoreboard with an assist on the first goal of the game. His ice time was second to lowest, barely edging out Drew Miller in the game, which in comparison only has 3 more points in 26 additional games.

Game 4 is tonight at 7:00 PM in Detroit at the Joe Louis arena and to be aired on Versus & TSN. It is still unknown if Modano will be playing, and even further down the road, if he will be returning next year to the Red Wings, any other team, or perhaps retiring. It is unfortunate Modano has not been given a chance to prove his worth this season and in the playoffs. Currently holding the record for most goals and points by an American born player, and having 175 playoff games under his belt, Modano surely would be an asset to a back-against-the-wall Detroit Red Wings.

Just my .02. Bench Jiri Hudler who left the Wings to go play oversees and has done nothing this series, let alone his lack of effort in the corners, and put Modano in to man the 3 for 12 (25.0%) power play this series.

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Several players will get opportunity to step up in place of Modano

Dec 1

Posted by Chris in Fantasy | No Comments

With only two goals and six assists in 20 games on the season, Detroit Red Wings forward Mike Modano was by no means a Fantasy Hockey stud before his injury over the weekend against the Columbus Blue Jackets. But his injury, which is expected to sideline Modano until close to playoff time, could allow some other Red Wings players to step up and shine both on the ice and on your Fantasy roster. Here are a couple players that might be look a second glance in the coming weeks if you’re in need of an offensive boost.

Justin Abdelkader will see significantly more playing time as he steps in to center the third line with former 20-goal scorers Jiri Hudler and Dan Cleary on his wings. With seven points in 13 games, most of which came as a fourth line grinder, Abdelkader has the skill set to play in the top-6 and seems to get better every game. He will get ample opportunity to create offense and help fill Modano’s shoes on the third line. Abdelkader also excels in hits and shot block categories if your league rewards for those stats.

Dan Cleary, who is already off to an impressive start with 10 goals and five assists in 21 games, will also be looked upon to shoulder the load and help carry the offense. He might be worth a look if your league is deep and he hasn’t been snatched up already.

One real anomaly on the team is Jiri Hudler. In his first stint with the Wings before defecting to Russia for last season before rejoining the team this year, Hudler managed to increase his scoring production in each season he played and finally topped out at 23 goals and 57 points in 2008-09. However, Hudler has struggled to find his way this year and only has six points in 18 games and has often found himself the odd man out as a healthy scratch. However, Hudler replaced Modano on the point of the second power play unit this past Sunday against Columbus. With a bomb of a shot and excellent play making abilities, Hudler could see a lot more power play time this season as a point man which will give him more ice time and hopefully help increase his sluggish production.

The Wings currently boast the second best goals per game average in the league and the 10th best power play percentage. Some of these players may be worth keeping an eye on if your league is deep and you need options for players with the possibility to have breakout campaigns. At least stash them on your watch list and see how things pan out over the next few weeks. Abdelkader seems to have the most room to benefit and will finally see steady ice time for the first time in his young career. He has been a workhorse this season and continues to get rewarded for his stellar play and his work ethic.

While no exact timetable has been given for Modano’s return after suffering a severed tendon and some nerve damage in his right wrist, the team hopes that Modano can make it back in time to get back up to speed before the playoffs roll around in April.

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Hockey World Blog Season Previews 2010: Dallas Stars

Sep 20

Posted by EB in Season Previews | No Comments

The Dallas Stars Ice Girls are about all that is worth seeing in the American Airlines Center because surely the team won't be much to look at this year.

The Dallas Star's Ice Girls are about all that is worth seeing in the American Airlines Center because surely the team itself won't be much to look at this year.

Key Offseason Losses: Mike Modano, Marty Turco

Key Offseason Additions: Faabian Brunnstrom, Jace Coyle, Scott Glennie, Travis Morin, James Neal, Matt Niskanen, Andrew Raycroft

Last Season Ranking:12th, West

Offense: The Dallas Stars are a complex team, housing good young talent but not getting the end results they want. Brad Richards, Loui Eriksson, James Neal and Mike Ribeiro all had 50+ point season last year. Brad Richards totaled 91 points, however ofthose points, only 24 of them were goals. Sure he has the playmaker hands but with the team in the middle of the pack for team goals, they need to put more pucks in the net. Mike Ribeiro had 53 point last season but only played 66 games to a few injuries and looks to rebound this year if he can stay healthy.

Newcomers Scott Glennie and  Travis Morin look to add some vigor to the team. Glennie, 19, has played 3 seasons in the WHL for the Brandon Wheat Kings, posting 58, 70 and 89 points as he progressed. Morin, 26, has a bit more on his resume, playing in the AHL, ECHL and the WCHA. Out of his 383 games played, he has a .94 points per game totaling 361 points.

Defense: It is hard to speak positively about the depth depleted defense. Sure they have Stephane Robidas who had a respectable 41 point season last year, but after that, the other defensemen are mediocre at best. The only other player to really be concerned is the Star’s offseason signing of youngster Jace Coyle. Playing in the WHl last year he had a season high of 10 goals, 46 assists and a plus 14 rating. Factor in the 5′ 11″ 180 pounder is only 20, the Stars are hoping he could be the future defensive leader in future years.

Goaltending: Much like the team’s defense, the Stars lack a true star goalie. After letting Marty Turco go to Chicago, the team is left to work with Kari Lehtonen and newly acquired Andrew Raycroft. Lehtonen should prove to be the number one goalie, but look for a constant battle for the entire year as both will be expected to go through highs and lows during the season.

Season Outlook: To the point, not looking good for a once powerful team. Long time face of the franchise Mike Modano was walked away from and joins a conference rival in the Detroit Red Wings. Look for Modano reaking vengeance on his former team as well as darn near all the teams in the NHL. The Dallas Stars are in a rebuilding year and will be for a few more seasons. For fans, it is expected to get worse before it gets better.

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Developing Story: Modano will Come Home

Aug 2

Posted by Eddie in News | No Comments

According to a Detroit Free Press report posted late Monday, forward Mike Modano will sign with the Detroit Red Wings. In the report, Modano sent the Free Press a text message only saying “Big announcement Thursday”. Modano wouldn’t tip his hand, but sources close to Modano say he’s signing with Detroit. Modano is also entertaining offers from San Jose and Minnesota.

Modano, 40, is the highest-scoring American-born player in NHL history. This is somewhat of a historic off season for Modano, who has spent his entire career with one team. He spent the previous 20 seasons with the Minnesota North Stars/Dallas Stars franchise.

Modano is a native of Westland, Mich., a Detroit suburb. The ice arena in Westland is named after Modano. He was offered a one-year, $1.25 million contract. He is expected to anchor the third line, which will give Detroit three quality scoring lines.

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Modano to Detroit?

Jul 5

Posted by EB in News | No Comments

Once I heard Mike Modano possibly being signed by Detroit this I had to take a double take. Could it be, the player I grew up watching and loving, a home grown Michigander, possibly playing for my home team? The thought still makes me tingle with anticipation.

Mike Modano is on the verge of retiring as the Dallas Stars have decided to part ways with their once franchise player. Modano is no spring chicken anymore, this is not contested, but he has plenty left in the tank. Modano played only 59 games last season and the majority of that on the third and fourth lines but put up a respectable 30 points. Modano’s strong suit is on the power play where he posted 3 goals and 7 assists. Ok, I know right now you are saying 10 points is pretty low, but factor in he did not play much on the power play, he did just fine.

Detroit currently, as always, waits on free agency to see who they can get for cheap and under the cap space. With Detroit losing a few free agents by will,  most likely including Jason Williams who did play point on the power play, it would make sense not only from a cap space opportunity to sign Modano, but also because he can work with young up and coming stars like Justin Abdelkader and Darren Helm.

Please Detroit, I know I have criticized you for signing old and over the hill players, but please sign Modano, I guarantee I will purchase a jersey with his new number on it. (9 is retired, 19 is retired, what other combination with 9 could he take?)

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Dallas Stars

Sep 20

Posted by EB in Season Previews | No Comments

The Dallas Star's Ice Girls thinks their team is number one. Who are we to argue with them?

The Dallas Star's Ice Girls thinks their team is number one. Who are we to argue with them?

While finishing just one game over .500 last season, the Dallas Stars have made hardly any moves to better their team. However, when you look at the roster, it does not seem like a bad move on their part to keep themselves as is.

Defensively the team has moved veteran Steve Begin to Boston, while acquiring Karlis Skrastine from Florida and Jeff Woywitka from St. Louis. The acquisitions should only increase the depth of the roster, but not really adding any star talent.

Offensively the team has lost Brendan Morrison who was claimed off waivers by the Anaheim Ducks,  later to be signed by the Washington Capitals.

In the goaltender position, Alex Auld has been picked up from the Ottawa Senators . Auld is coming off of a lack luster season, with only 16 wins in 42 games played, but should play an excellent role of back up to starter Marty Turco.

So what is there to look forward to? Well, a lot really. The team is very well balanced with enough veterans working with youth, as well as that middle tier who are playing at their peak.

Mike Modano is working with Fabian Brunnstrom on the third line. Brunnstrom had 17 goals in 55 games played in his rookie season last year, and is only to be expected to increase that number.

With Brad Richards second full season with the Stars this year, he heads a line with well rounded Jere Lehtinen and 22 year old James Neal. James, who was ranked second in goals amongst NHL rookies last year, looks to be joined this season by his brother Michael who is also on the Stars roster this season.

And perhaps the most deadly of line combinations for the Stars is that of Mike Ribeiro centering Brenden Morrow and Loui Eriksson. Morrow, who was out for the majority of the season last year with right Knee surgery, looks to be healthy and able to improve upon his 74 point 2007-2008 season.  24 year old Eriksson is entering his 4th season in the NHL with the Stars, and in each of those seasons have increased his points by a minimum of 10 points. Last year he netted 36 goals in 82 games played. Mike Ribeiro, who has been glorified because of his amazing shoot-out goal against the Avalanche last year, is more than capable of putting up 80 plus points this season.

The Stars are in a tough Pacific division with the San Jose Sharks and the Anaheim Ducks, but should be competitive for second within the division, if not for first.

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