Friday, April 30, 2010

Stockton Thunder GAME PREVIEW: Game On(e)!



04/30/2010 12:00 AM
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#6 STOCKTON THUNDER at #1 IDAHO STEELHEADS


GAME 1 - NATIONAL CONFERENCE FINAL
April 30, 2010 - Qwest Arena
FACEOFF: 6:10 p.m.


WATCH PARTY: Stockton Arena (King's Room)
RADIO: None (Online only)
INTERNET: http://www.stocktonthunder.com/ (B2 Networks)


NATIONAL CONFERENCE FINAL
Game 1: Stockton at Idaho - Friday, Apr. 30 - 6:10 p.m.
Game 2: Stockton at Idaho - Saturday, May 1 - 6:10 p.m.
Game 3: Idaho at Stockton - Wednesday, May 5 - 7:00 p.m.
Game 4: Idaho at Stockton - Friday, May 7 - 7:30 p.m.
Game 5: Idaho at Stockton - Saturday, May 8 - 7:30 p.m. *
Game 6: Stockton at Idaho - Tuesday, May 11 - 6:10 p.m. *
Game 7: Stockton at Idaho - Wednesday, May 12 - 6:10 p.m. *
* If necessary

TONIGHT'S MATCHUP
The sixth-seeded Thunder, opens its first trip to the National Conference Finals tonight against the first-seeded Idaho Steelheads (second meeting in the playoffs, first since 2007) at Qwest Arena, a best-of-seven series that follows a "2-3-2" format. The series features two players with NHL playing experience (Colin Hemingway, St. Louis Blues and Bryan Young, Edmonton Oilers). It marks the Thunder's fourth straight playoff appearance and four in five seasons since joining the ECHL. The Steelheads are in their seventh straight playoff appearance and return to the Conference Finals the first time since 2007, when they eventually won their second Kelly Cup championship. Stockton won its second rounds series, 4-1 over Bakersfield and Idaho swept Utah in four games.

GOING FOR THE GOLD
The Stockton Thunder are asking all fans in attendance for Thunder home Kelly Cup Playoff games at Stockton Arena to "go gold" and wear gold clothing similar to the color in the Thunder uniform scheme. The Thunder, who ranked third in ECHL attendance this season and drew over 6,000 fans per game for the fifth consecutive season, will roll out exclusive playoff merchandise including playoff rally towels, collectible playoff pucks and gold bandanas. Special gold playoff t-shirts will be on sale at all home games in the Stockton Arena "Fan Attic" and all in-arena merchandise locations.

SECOND ROUND RECAP: THUNDER PLUCKS CONDORS
The Thunder advanced to the National Conference Finals for the first time in club history, defeating the Bakersfield Condors, 4-1 in the best-of-seven series in the National Conference Semifinals ... the Thunder won two games in overtime at Rabobank Arena and became the first team to hand back-to-back losses in two nights to the Condors, in Bakersfield, since Idaho on Jan. 29-30 ... J.F. Caudron and Oren Eizenman had the overtime winners and Eizenman led the Thunder in scoring for the series with six points (3g-3a) in five games... Stockton defeated Bakersfield, 3-2 in overtime in Game 1 at Rabobank Arena with Caudron's overtime winner with 9:42 left ... Kelly Czuy tied the game with less than three minutes left in regulation ... Eizenman's OT winner with 10:59 left, the next night, lifted the Thunder to a 2-0 series lead in a 4-3 victory at Rabobank Arena ... in Game 3, J.P. Levasseur shut out the Thunder with 35-save shutout in a 3-0 Bakersfield win at Stockton Arena ... the Thunder struck back with Matt Robinson's playoff career-high three points (1g-2a) in a 6-2 victory over Bakersfield at Stockton Arena in Game 4, seizing a 3-1 series lead ... in Game 5, Eizenman's pair of assists, along with 14 skaters hitting the scoresheet, helped the Thunder eliminate Bakersfield in a 7-4 win at Stockton Arena, winning the series 4-1 ... Stockton bursted with a four-goal third period and Colin Hemingway registered the eventual game-winning goal.

FIRST ROUND RECAP: THUNDER FLUSHES ACES
The Thunder advanced to the second round for the second straight season, defeating the Alaska Aces, 3-1 in the best-of-five series in the National Conference Quarterfinals ... the Thunder became the first team in ECHL history to eliminate Alaska in the first round of the Kelly Cup Playoffs ... Kelly Czuy had three straight multi-point games and Oren Eizenman led the Thunder series scoring with nine assists ... Defenseman B.J. Crum scored back-to-back goals, including the game-winner with 2:51 left in regulation to snap a 3-3 tie and help the Aces rally in a third period comeback, defeating the Thunder, 4-3 in Game 1 at Wasilla, Alaska ... a four goal effort in the third period, stamping a string of three unanswered goals, helped the Stockton Thunder sink the host the Alaska Aces in a 5-2 victory in Game 2 - J.F. Caudron had the game-winning goal ... All-star center Chris D'Alvise scored two goals and added an assist, Andrew Perugini made 39 saves and the Stockton Thunder scored a playoff club record five goals in the third period, en route to a thrilling 7-4 victory over the Alaska Aces in Game 3 at Stockton Arena ... the Thunder, who took a 2-1 series lead, scored five times in a span of 6:42 in the third period ... the Thunder erased two separate two-goal deficits in the first period and scored six unanswered goals, led by James Bates' four points (1g-3a) and a pair of goals by Matt Robinson, eliminating Alaska in a 8-5 victory in Game 4 at Stockton Arena ... ten different Thunder players hit the scoresheet and Andrew Perugini made 40 saves in net.

SEASON SERIES: STOCKTON VS. IDAHO
The Thunder was 2-9-1 this season against Idaho and last faced the Steelheads on Jan. 2 ... Stockton went 2-1-0 in the last three games against the Steelheads - all at Qwest Arena ... the Thunder have added seven new players to the roster since the two teams last met at Stockton Arena on Nov. 28 ... the teams opened the regular season with a three-game series in Boise and the Steelheads completed a three-game sweep with a 3-2 win on Oct. 18 ... the Thunder dropped a 2-1 shootout loss at Stockton Arena in the next meeting on Nov. 13 ... Idaho won, 4-2 the next evening on Evan Barlow's pair of goals ... Idaho finished a three-game sweep of the series in Stockton the next evening, 3-1 behind Richard Bachman's 20 saves ... Idaho followed by a three-game sweep of the Thunder, at Stockton Arena on Nov. 25 and Nov. 27-28 ... the Thunder snapped Idaho's nine-game win streak in the series with a 5-1 victory at Qwest Arena on Dec. 31, behind Chris D'Alvise's pair of goals and Bryan Pitton's 40 saves ... Idaho won, 5-1 on New Year's Day behind Sergei Korostin's pair of goals ... the next evening, the Thunder closed out the regular season series with another 5-1 triumph over the host Steelheads - Andrew Perugini made 39 stops and Oren Eizenman led the offense with a two-goal effort ... Stockton was lifted into a tie for second place in the Pacific Division with the victory.

THUNDER CROWDS ROLL IN
The Thunder ranks second in ECHL playoff attendance with an average of 4,433 fans per game and recently completed the regular season third in the ECHL in attendance with an average of 6,031 fans per game, marking the fifth straight season that an average of 6,000 fans have crossed the Stockton Arena turnstiles. On Jan. 30, the Thunder drew 9,158 fans to Stockton Arena against Victoria, the second largest home crowd this year. The Thunder led the ECHL in attendance last year with an average of 6,218 fans through 36 home games. Stockton has 14 sellouts in the team's franchise history and drew a standing room only crowd of 9,392 on Nov. 8 vs. Alaska. Last year, the Thunder became the first team since 2004-05 to lead the ECHL in attendance for four straight seasons (Florida led the ECHL in attendance for five straight seasons - 2000-05).

THUNDER PLAYOFF NOTES
It is the second time the Thunder are meeting the Idaho Steelheads in the Kelly Cup Playoffs, the first since 2007 when Idaho defeated Stockton, 4-2 in the National Conference Quarterfinals. The Thunder has advanced to the National Conference Finals for first time in franchise history and last year, played hockey into the month of May for the first time in team history, losing in seven games to the Las Vegas Wranglers, in the Pacific Division Final (second round). The Thunder achieved its first playoff series win in club history by defeating the Ontario Reign, 4-3, which included five one-goal games. In 2007-08, the Thunder was defeated by Las Vegas, 4-2 in six games of the National Conference Quarterfinal and was defeated, 4-2 to the eventual Kelly Cup Champion Idaho Steelheads in the quarterfinal round in 2006-07. Six players remain from last year's Thunder playoff team.

BREAKDOWN: THUNDER ALL-TIME RECORD BY GAME ONE

DATE ROUND OPP. LOCATION SCORE OT GOALIES (STK/opp) GWG
Apr. 10, 2007 NQF Idaho Qwest Arena W, 4-2 - Dubnyk/Silverthorn Tim Sestito
Apr. 11, 2008 NQF Las Vegas Orleans Arena W, 4-2 - Boron/Lalande Jonas Almtorp
Apr. 10, 2009 PSF Ontario CB Bank Arena L, 3-4 - Perugini-PITTON/Zatkoff Shawn Germain
Apr. 24, 2009 PF Las Vegas Stockton Arena W, 4-3 - Van Buskirk/Fisher-DeCARO Cory Urquhart
Apr. 5, 2010 NQF Alaska Menard Center L, 3-4 - Perugini/Sauer B.J. Crum
Apr. 16, 2010 NSF Bakersfield Rabobank Arena W, 3-2 10:18 Perugini/Levasseur J.F. Caudron
All-time game one record: 4-2

SECOND HALF SWING
After beginning the season 5-11-3 and 1-6-3 on their own home ice, the Thunder roared back after the start of December to finish with a swing of 28-19-7 overall and 16-6-4 at Stockton Arena, at one point moving to a tie for first place in the Pacific Division with Bakersfield in the final week of the regular season. A multiple number of milestones were reached or neared in helping the Thunder secure its fourth straight Kelly Cup Playoff berth:

James Bates, 73 points (tied Thunder single-season record - Ryan Huddy, 08-09)
Chris D'Alvise, 34 goals (one shy of tying Thunder single-season record)
Andrew Perugini, 22 wins (career-high, two win shy of tying single-season record)
Wins, 33 (second highest in Thunder history)
Wins - road, 16 (one shy of tying Thunder single-season record)

ARE YOU EXPERIENCED?
The Thunder has one player (captain J.F. Caudron) and head coach Matt Thomas with pro championship experience - Caudron helped guide the Atlantic City Boardwalk Bullies to a Kelly Cup championship title in 2003, the same team that had Thomas as assistant coach. Additionally, veteran right wing Colin Hemingway (Alaska, 2008-09), right wing Brett Hemingway (Alaska, 2008-09) and right wing Kelly Czuy (Las Vegas, 2007-08) have helped guide their former respective teams to appearances in the Kelly Cup Finals.

Below is a list of the top-5 Thunder players who have the most pro playoff experience in games:

PLAYER - GAMES
KELLY CZUY - 51
J.F. CAUDRON - 40
MATT ROBINSON - 31
DARYL MARCOUX - 29
COLIN HEMINGWAY - 26

ALL TIME PLAYOFF SCORING (Thunder active players)
# Player GP G A PTS
12 J.F. Caudron 40 23 20 43
34 Kelly Czuy 51 16 23 39
20 Colin Hemingway 26 10 18 28
28 James Bates 22 7 17 24
9 Oren Eizenman 15 7 13 20

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

2nd Round Stanley Cup Playoff Picks / Plus 1st Round Recap



Here is what I picked for the 1st round of the Stanley Cup playoffs; MY PICKS ARE IN BLUE

EASTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Washington vs. (8) Montreal  CAPITALS WIN IN 4 CANADIENS WON IN 7

(2) New Jersey vs. (7) Philadelphia  DEVILS WIN IN 7 FLYERS WON IN 5

(3) Buffalo vs. (6) Boston BRUINS WIN IN 6 BRUINS WON IN 6

(4) Pittsburgh vs. (5) Ottawa  PENGUINS WIN IN 5 PENGUINS WON IN 6


WESTERN CONFERENCE

(1) San Jose vs. (8) Colorado  COLORADO WINS IN 6 SHARKS WON IN 6

(2) Chicago vs. (7) Nashville  CHICAGO WINS IN 5 CHICAGO WON IN 6

(3) Vancouver vs. (6) Los Angeles  CANUCKS WIN IN 6 CANUCKS WON IN 6

(4) Phoenix vs. (5) Detroit  DETROIT WINS IN 6 DETROIT WON IN 7

Here is the link for the 1st Round.

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OK, time for the 2nd round matchups; MY PICKS ARE IN BLUE

EASTERN CONFERENCE

(6) Bruins vs (7) Flyers BRUINS WIN IN 6

(4) Penguins vs (8) Canadiens PENGUINS WIN IN 6

WESTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Sharks vs (5) Red Wings RED WINGS WIN IN 6

(2) Blackhawks vs (3) Canucks BLACKHAWKS WIN IN 6

-Smokin' Ray-

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Why Not A Wayne Gretzky Award? Sign The Petition

Since the first time the NHL was formed, there has never been an top assists trophy. They have trophies for just about everything under the sun. Points (yes). Goals (yes), The even have a plus minus trophy of all things. Take a look.

So if the NHL can have a Mark Messier leadership award, why not a Wayne Gretzky Assist Leader Award? Considering what he has done in his career (1,963 assists in the NHL), there is no doubt he should have a trophy named after him. His name is all over the NHL assist record book. There is no one better at passing and assists than Wayne Gretzky.

Now I know this trophy idea thing isn't a fresh idea and I know other people have said it before. But what if we go one step further? What if we had an online petition and we submit it to the NHL and maybe, just maybe they consider it and honor a man that SHOULD be honored?

*drum roll* Well, here you go. Click on the link below and electronically sign the petition. Once we get a ton of signatures, we will submit it to the NHL. This award should be made.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/waynegretzkyaward/


Stockton Thunder News / New Role Suits O'Dette Well

04/27/2010 10:30 AM

By Lindsay Kramer - NHL.com Correspondent

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Matt O'Dette needed more suits, and better ones at that.

The off-ice wardrobe he had while playing defense for the Stockton Thunder was OK, but he admits he had to step up his sartorial game when he was named a full-time assistant with the team.

"I had to pump up the wardrobe being behind the bench," O'Dette said. "I had some, but some of the suits weren't very nice. That's been taken care of."

With that detail out of the way, there's no reason to believe O'Dette won't wear his new job well.

O'Dette, 34, officially was named an assistant to Matt Thomas before the National Conference semifinals against Bakersfield, but that was a formality. O'Dette was a player-assistant for the Thunder this season, and when he was left off the playoff roster, his new role with the team became obvious.

O'Dette played 13 seasons of professional hockey with the ECHL's Thunder, Fresno Falcons and Roanoke Express, and the AHL's Hamilton Bulldogs, Quebec Citadelles and Saint John Flames. The 6-foot-5, 230-pound defenseman suited up in 662 career games as a professional, totaling 116 points (38-78) and 1,587 penalty minutes.

"I knew that this was going to be my last year (playing). I knew I'd only play when we were short. I've come to grips with the fact the playing career is over," he said. "In a way, it's invigorated me to stay in the game. You see everything from a different pair of goggles."

O'Dette has a well-rounded perspective of the sport's landscape as it is. He never missed the playoffs in his final five seasons, four of which he served as captain. He helped guide the Thunder to their first Kelly Cup playoff series victory in 2008-09 after signing with the club as a free agent at mid-season.

Among his accomplishments was helping lift the Falcons to their first Pacific Division title, 100-point season and berth in the National Conference Finals in 2005-06. He was a part of two Calder Cup finalist teams, with Saint John in 1997-98 and Hamilton in 2002-03, and was a member of the Montreal Canadiens' "Black Aces" during the team's 2003 Stanley Cup Playoff run.

I think the biggest thing I bring to the table is I like to think I was a professional, the way I approached the game," he said. "Guys see how I take the game seriously. It's been a fine line with the coaching aspects and how you handle the players.

"It (being an assistant) is almost the same role (as captain). But it's a step beyond that. It's being on the same side as the guys, but parlaying that on to the coach because I'm an assistant coach."

Monday, April 26, 2010

Fernando Pisani, Masterton Fail

Today the Masterton trophy nominee's were released today. The three guys nominated were Kurtis Foster, Jed Ortmeyer, and Jose Theodore.

Anaheim: Teemu Selanne
Atlanta: Jim Slater
Boston: Mark Recchi
Buffalo: Ryan Miller
Calgary: Craig Conroy
Carolina: Rod Brind’Amour
Chicago: Brent Sopel
Colorado: Matt Hendricks
Columbus: Jared Boll
Dallas: Mike Modano
Detroit: Tomas Holmstrom
Edmonton: Jason Strudwick
Florida: Bryan Allen
Los Angeles: Brad Richardson
Minnesota: Guillaume Latendresse
Montreal: Jaroslav Halak
Nashville: Joel Ward
New Jersey: Patrik Elias
NY Islanders: Jack Hillen
NY Rangers: Chris Drury
Ottawa: Matt Carkner
Philadelphia: Mike Leighton
Phoenix: Vernon Fiddler
Pittsburgh: Bill Guerin
San Jose: Jed Ortmeyer
St. Louis: Erik Johnson
Tampa Bay: Kurtis Foster
Toronto: Jonas Gustavsson
Vancouver: Henrik Sedin
Washington: Jose Theodore

Now I will never knock those three guys for being nominated, they all deserve the recognition. Here are their stories.

I will however knock the Edmonton Oilers nominee choice -- not the guy, but the choice itself -- Jason Strudwick. Yeah, the guy is a great guy to be around and he's not an NHL regular (due to lack of skill) so he has shown perseverance and dedication. Jason also does a great job in the community.

The definition of the Bill Masterton trophy is, "it's awarded annually to the National Hockey League player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey."

By that definition, it does describe Strudwick like I said in the two paragraphs up above, but it describes Fernando Pisani even more.


Pisani has been suffering from a disease called Ulcerative Colitis since August 2007 and it's very deadly. In fact, Pisani was near death when it first hit him. He has since recovered enough and has came back to the NHL and continues to play today. It's very amazing that Pisani is back playing. There was a point in time where he might not have ever played again. But he fought and did a great job at recovering.

Pisani had this to say about his Ulcerative Colitis, "It's not one of those illnesses that a lot of people enjoy talking about and it's obviously a private matter, but at the same time, so many people have come up to me and said I have a brother, sister or uncle or aunt that has been affected by this, and hasn't really been able to come out and say anything because they just felt embarrassed about it until my situation came up."

Pisani's situation has created a lot of awareness for Colitis. His story has been terrible for him, yet good for the public awareness. Fernando Pisani is a hero. A modest hero, but still a hero.

Maybe since Pisani was nominated last year, that took him out of the running this year? I don't know. All I do know is Pisani would have been my choice every year until he won the Masterton trophy.

Since it appears that Pisani most likely won't be back next season with the Oilers (or maybe the NHL period), this year just might be his last chance at this award. It's a shame that Fernando wasn't a winner of the Bill Masterton award. He is that award.

Here is a more in depth look at what Ulcerative Colitis is all about.


-Smokin' Ray-

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Joey Moss And The Edmonton Oilers


According to a report by Richard Liebrecht at the Edmonton Sun today, Joey Moss will always have a job with the Edmonton Oilers hockey club.  It's been reported that Joey has a lifetime contract (thanks Wayne) and will not be fired.

With Lyle “Sparky” Kulchisky now gone (fired), it was a question mark on what will happen to Joey. According to Allan Watt, Joey's routine will not be altered. He also says that there are others in the dressing room that has worked with Joe and he will be OK.

Maybe I'm mistaken, but didn't they fire all the guys that have worked with Joey? Isn't he essentially alone now?

I've met Joey and let me tell you, meeting him was no different than meeting Ales Hemsky. He's a really nice guy and a (unsung) superstar and he does a great job. I really have a special spot for Joey and I hope with all the changes in the Oilers organization, Joey really isn't affected much at all.

Don't BS us Oilers. Take care of that guy.

Read it all here at the Edmonton Sun.

-Smokin' Ray-

Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation Spends 65% of All Money Raised

While reading the usual NHL/Oilers reading material today, I came across this nice little gem by the Star.com. It appears like the Oilers Community Foundation spends more than the average person would think.


Here is a few quotes from the article, "The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation shows the highest fundraising costs among Canadian NHL club foundations."

"It spent 65 per cent of its revenues on internal costs last year – down from 80 per cent in 2008."

"That compares to 17 per cent reported by the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation, the lowest figure among the country’s six NHL club foundations"

"The federal Charities Directorate, which regulates the country’s 83,000 registered charities, says fundraising of more than 35 per cent of revenues triggers an examination “to determine if there is a trend of high fundraising costs."

"The Star’s analysis shows five of the six NHL team charity foundations exceed that threshold. All continue to operate without penalty."

"A gala fundraiser held by the (Vancouver) Canucks For Kids foundation raised $300,000 for the charity’s work with children in need last year, says executive director Debbie Butt.  But that’s only after spending $200,000 to stage the event."

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That basically means that the EOCF spends 65% of all monies raised to produce more money. (ie: Gala setups, Hall rentals, Food, etc.) Only 35% of the fans and charitable sponsors money that's raised actually goes back into the programs the EOCF has set up.

The stunning fact in the second sentence of the quotes, is the fact the EOCF spent approx 80% of all monies raised in 2008. Wow! That's a lot of cash that's needed in the community.

So, wouldn't it beneficial for the EOCF to get some pointers on how to be more cost efficient? Maybe then, the proper monies could be put back in the proper hands, the kids.

Assuming this article is indeed correct, this can only be yet another public media black eye for all the Foundations involved.

-Smokin' Ray-

Stockton Thunder Advance To The National Conference Finals / Starting Friday, April 30/10


04/24/2010 10:10 PM - Kelly Cup Playoff packages, individual tickets on sale beginning with game 3

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STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder has advanced to the National Conference Finals for the first time in club history and will open the third round of the 2010 Kelly Cup Playoffs against the first seed Idaho Steelheads in a best-of-seven series (2-3-2 format), beginning with Game 1 on Friday, Apr. 30 at 6:05 p.m. from Qwest Arena in Boise.

Round-by-round ticket packages for the 2010 Kelly Cup Playoffs are now on sale and can be purchased by calling the Stockton Thunder at (209) 373-1500. Individual playoff tickets for all home games at Stockton Arena are on sale and available in person at the Stockton Arena Alpine Meats ticket office, by phone at (209) 373-1700 or online at http://www.stocktontickets.com/

The Thunder, the #6 seed in the National Conference, finished 2-9-1 this season against the Steelheads (winning two of the last three of the head-to-head series, Dec.31-Jan. 2) and it is the first time both teams will meet in the Kelly Cup Playoffs since 2007, when Idaho defeated the Thunder, 4-2 in the National Conference Quarterfinals.

Stockton is looking to advance to the Kelly Cup Finals for the first time in club history, while Idaho is aiming to earn a finals berth for the third time in six seasons (2004, 2007). Listed below is the head-to-head schedule, following a "2-3-2" format:

STOCKTON VS. IDAHO - NATIONAL CONFERENCE FINALS
Game 1: Stockton at Idaho - Friday, Apr. 30 - 6:05 p.m. (Qwest Arena)
Game 2: Stockton at Idaho - Saturday, May 1 - 6:05 p.m. (Qwest Arena)
Game 3: Idaho at Stockton - Wednesday, May 5 - 7:00 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 4: Idaho at Stockton - Friday, May 7 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 5: Idaho at Stockton - Saturday, May 8 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena) *
Game 6: Stockton at Idaho - Tuesday, May 11 - 6:05 p.m. (Qwest Arena) *
Game 7: Stockton at Idaho - Wednesday, May 12 - 6:05 p.m. (Qwest Arena) *
* If necessary

Kelly Cup Playoff tickets start as low as $9 per seat and range to $28 (Comcast Club).

Fans wishing to get priority seating on playoff tickets can do so by placing a deposit on new Thunder season tickets for the 2010-11 season.

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League and Springfield Falcons of the American Hockey League, the Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season tickets for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Oilers Jambalaya Says Thank You To The Readers

I'd like to take this time to thank all the readers that enjoy this site and the people that harass me on a daily basis. We suffered through a tough year together and I'd like to think we were a good support group. If this isn't therapy, I don't know what is.

So thank you readers, I not only appreciate you stopping by to read what we have written, but I feel privileged that you actually do read our stuff. Thanks.

I want to thank the following people that have helped me with writing here at Oilers Jambalaya this season.

Paq Twinn, Graham Martin, Scarlett, Oil Fan Nick, and Todd at NHLTalk202. I thank them and I appreciate their help, it would be hard to do this without you.

I want to take the time to say thanks to the new guy around here. Scott at OilFieldHockey.com has been a nice addition to OJ. We have formed a nice partnership and it's going to be very exciting next season as Scott will be at the new Oklahoma City AHL team (so far unnamed) home games. He will be our in house eyes and ears for all things OKC. So thanks Scott for joining forces with us.

I also want to thank the Springfield Falcons and the Stockton Thunder for partnering up with Oilers Jambalaya and allowing me to re-post their material this season. I feel as it improved this site and I hope you all did too.

I want to send a big thank you to Mr. David Staples from the Edmonton Journal's Cult Of Hockey blog. Every time he asked me to contribute player grades I jumped at it. Not only did it force me to be creative, but it produced more criticism for me to deal with and I felt that I grew as a writer because of it. I also want to thank David for being a nice guy. He's been good to me and I appreciate it. Thanks David.

I especially want to thank my family for putting up with my obsession called Oilers Jambalaya. Everyday my wife puts up with my "just 5 more seconds" speech and I thank her for not punching me in the face. My family means the most to me in the world and I just love the fact that they are cool with me just being me, Oiler nuts!

THANK YOU EVERYBODY!!!

Next season is going to be great...

Springfield Falcons President/GM Criticizes The Edmonton Oilers

Springfield Falcons President and General Manager Bruce Landon recaps the 2009-10 campaign and previews the 2010-11 season in his latest update.


From the desk of Bruce Landon

The team that was put together last summer and coming out of training camp was good enough to compete for a playoff spot. However, the loss of Ryan Potulny who made the best of an opportunity to make Edmonton after the injury to Hemsky, the loss of Chris Minard to a long term injury and most importantly the loss of goaltender Devan Dubnyk started the downward spiral of the team. During all of this we also lost for extended periods of time the absence of other key players to injuries and/or call-ups. At one time during the long losing stretch we had eleven of our key players out of the line-up.

The biggest mistake made by the Oilers, was not providing us with a solid number two goaltender that could step in and win some games for us in the absence of Dubnyk. It does not matter what level you are at, without top notch goaltending it is a struggle to put any kind of winning streak together.

I want to acknowledge our great fans for their support through these very difficult times. We welcome the change with the Columbus Blue Jackets as our NHL partner and look forward to next season with renewed optimism.

I need to also address the issue of season ticket sales. Our staff has done a tremendous job in group sales on our prime dates and in corporate sponsorships during tough economic times. However, there are significant reasons why we must increase our season ticket sales. We are not looking for huge numbers in this area, because we know that it is not possible. However, we need to be close to the number that other smaller market teams have. If Adirondack can do 1900 – 2000 full season tickets, why can’t Springfield. I can assure you that if we had 2000 full season tickets, there would never be any concerns about the team ever leaving Springfield. We need a bigger base to help us out on the mid-week games when group sales are very difficult. The days of playing just Friday and Saturdays are long gone. We also don’t have a large building like Hartford, where with a special big night we can draw 8000 fans to make up for the small crowds on a mid-week game.

We have made some staffing changes to help us in our season ticket sales. This will include the addition of two more sales associates. Two years ago we ran a very strong campaign that enabled us to increase our season ticket base. However, this past year, due to the economy and other factors those numbers dropped dramatically. Our goal is to bring the season ticket total to the 1800 number. It will be a challenge. We offer a wide variety of plans and even the purchase of a ten game flex pack helps us inch closer to our goal.

The recent articles in the newspaper about ownership are very straightforward and really need no explanation. It was important that our fans and the entire community are aware of our objectives.

In closing, I again thank our great fans and corporate sponsors for their support. As always I respect your opinion and feedback. Please feel free to contact me at anytime.

Bruce

OilFieldHockey / AHL Season Ticket Advisory Board




Prodigal Hockey is looking for volunteers for its Season Ticket Holder Advisory Board. The purpose of the Advisory Board is to improve the communication between the season ticket holders and the front office. We expect the Advisory board to share information with the front office and also disseminate information from the front office to your fellow season ticket holders.

Season Ticket Holder Advisory Board members will be asked to attend between 4 - 6 meetings during a year. If you are interested in volunteering for the Advisory Board please contact Stacie Rathbun via email at stacie.rathbun@prodigalize.com or by phone at 405-232-GOAL (4625), ext. 111.

FAQ about the Season Ticket Holder Advisory Board:

Who is eligible for the Advisory Board?

Any Season Ticket Holder who has at least made a deposit on season seats for the 2010-11 hockey season. Only one member per account is eligible for the Advisory Board and members must be at least 18 years of age. Terms are one year.

How many people will be on the Advisory Board?

The number of members of the advisory board is dictated by the number of season seats sold. Presently, Prodigal Hockey is in search of 15 members.

How do I volunteer to be on the Advisory Board?

Submit your name, address, phone number and e-mail address to Stacie Rathbun at stacie.rathbun@prodigalize.com by April 27th.

What do I have to do if chosen?

Be willing to be the voice for Season Ticket Holders in and around your section(s) or group of friends. Advisory Board members will have their photo taken and placed on the website. They will also provide a bit of information about themselves and be approachable by fans.

When will the names be chosen?

The random drawing will take place April 30th and the results posted that afternoon at prodigalhockey.com.

When will the Advisory Board meet?

The Advisory Board will meet a minimum of four times during a year period.
 

Stockton Thunder Up 3-1 In Series / Game 4 Recap

04/23/2010 9:27 PM

THREE'S COMPANY
Robinson's three points help Thunder take 3-1 series lead, put Bakersfield on brink of elimination
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FINAL STATS: BOX SCORE
VIDEO: Highlights and postgame locker room reaction
AUDIO: Game highlights




STOCKTON, Calif. - Matt Robinson scored a playoff career-high three points (1g-2a), helping the Stockton Thunder turn in a wire-to-wire lead and sink the Bakersfield Condors in a 6-2 victory in Game 4 of the National Conference Semifinals of the 2010 Kelly Cup Playoffs, before 4,932 fans at Stockton Arena on Friday night.

Stockton took a 3-1 lead in the series, put Bakersfield on the brink of elimination in the best-of-seven set and can advance to the Conference Finals for the first time in club history with a win as early as Saturday at Stockton Arena in Game 5.

Robinson, who turned in his postseason best just one game after sitting out as a healthy scratch, helped the Thunder spur a four-goal rally in the second period. Oren Eizenman, Bryan Young, Chris D'Alvise, Jason Pitton and Matt Marquardt chipped in with a goal and Andrew Perugini posted a 27 save-effort to improve to 6-2 in the playoffs.

Garet Hunt also chipped in with a pair of assists - his first came on Young's game-winning goal.

STOCKTON VS. BAKERSFIELD - NATIONAL CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS
Game 1: Stockton 3 at Bakersfield 2 (OT)
Game 2: Stockton 4 at Bakersfield 3 (OT)
Game 3: Bakersfield 3 at Stockton 0
Game 4: Bakersfield 2 at Stockton 6
Game 5: Bakersfield at Stockton - Saturday, April 24 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 6: Stockton at Bakersfield - Tuesday, Apr. 27 - 7:00 p.m. (Rabobank Arena) *
Game 7: Stockton at Bakersfield - Wednesday, Apr. 28 - 7:00 p.m. (Rabobank Arena) *
* If necessary

"There were so many players who deserved the player of the game honor we usually award in our dressing room after the game," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "It was a great effort by the collective bunch and from the Bryan Youngs to the Matt Robinsons to the Garet Hunts, everyone committed to a full, physical effort tonight and they were rewarded with it. There were many things we have to take from tonight's game into Game 5 because we know it will be the toughest one so far."
Oren Eizenman was named first star of the game with a goal and assist, parlaying an all-around effort.
(photo by George Steckler)

The Thunder came out flying in the opening period with a furious physical forecheck and outshot the Condors, 8-2 in the first several minutes. Capping off the effort, Robinson's third goal of the playoffs put the Thunder ahead, 1-0 when he corralled James Bates' centering pass and whistled a snap shot past J.P. Levasseur from between the circles with 59.7 seconds left.

A four-goal outburst in the second period powered the Thunder to a 5-1 advantage, using two separate pairs of goals around Bakersfield's only tally in the period. Eizenman took J.F. Caudron's relay and seared a wrist shot over Levasseur's glove for a breakaway goal just 53 seconds into the period, hiking the lead to 2-0.

Young crashed the net on a rebound produced by a shot from Hunt, in close and boosted the lead to 3-0 with 15:14 left in the period. A third-chance rebound though by Stephane Goulet put Bakersfield on the board, trailing 3-1 with 7:04 elapsed in the period.

The Thunder continued their relentless forecheck game and D'Alvise restored the three-goal cushion when he slipped a loose puck from nearly at the right goal line with 10:05 remaining for his first goal of the series.

Pitton finished off a collective successful forecheck when he stole a pass at the right circle and zipped a wrist shot through Levasseur's five-hole with 59.8 seconds left, boosting the lead to 5-1 after Hunt leveled Ken Morin with a check in the right corner.

In a more controlled, conservative pace in the third period, the Thunder maintained their margin through the first several minutes but allowed Bakersfield to get no closer than a three-goal cushion. Eric Regan's power-play goal cut the lead to 5-2 with 9:53 left in the third period when he buried a loose puck from the right circle into an open net.

Bakersfield pulled Levasseur for an extra attacker on a power-play with three minutes remaining but the Thunder put on the finishing touches with Marquardt's empty-net goal with 1:10 left in the game.

Levasseur, who was the first Bakersfield goaltender to start two consecutive games, took the loss with 18 saves.

NOTES: The Thunder scratched Riley Emmerson (inactive list), Brett Hemingway (inactive list), Trevor Hunt (inactive list), Justin DaCosta (healthy) and Kelly Czuy (injury, day-to-day) ... the Thunder improved to 4-2, lifetime in Game 4 situations ... Robinson's first period goal was the first time the Thunder scored the first goal of the game in the entire postseason ... only two infractions (a pair of fighting majors to Igor Gongalsky and Sasha Pokulok in the first period) were called through two periods and Stockton never had a power-play in the game ... the Thunder improved to 3-1 at home in this year's playoffs.

The Thunder can wrap up the series at Stockton Arena with a victory on Saturday in Game 5, facing Bakersfield beginning at 7:30 p.m. The game can be heard and viewed online exclusively at www.stocktonthunder.com, courtesy of B2 Networks (audio is free of charge). Tickets for Thunder home playoff games are available by calling (209) 373-1700 or by visiting www.StocktonTickets.com.

The Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, has led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew 223,854 fans to Stockton Arena in 2008-09. Season Tickets for 2009-10 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

THREE STARS:
1. STK - 9 Oren Eizenman
2. STK - 71 Matt Robinson
3. STK - 24 Garet Hunt


Sunday, April 18, 2010

The Stockton Thunder Win Game 2 / Up 2-0 In Series Over Bakersfield / A Game Recap


04/17/2010 11:54 PM -
ANOTHER HERO MAKES IT 2-0
Eizenman leads with pair of goals, scores OT winner, Thunder take series home with 2-0 lead

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FINAL STATS: LINK TO BOX SCORE
AUDIO: Game highlights

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - Oren Eizenman scored a pair of goals, including the game-winner with 10:59 left in sudden death overtime, to lead the Stockton Thunder to their second straight comeback victory in overtime in a 4-3 win over the Bakersfield Condors in the National Conference Semifinals of the 2010 Kelly Cup Playoffs, before 4,827 at Rabobank Arena on Saturday night.

The Thunder, who took a 2-0 series lead in the best-of-seven series over the second-seeded Condors with the series moving to Stockton for Game 3 next Wednesday, were aided by Andrew Perugini's 41 stops while Ryan Constant and J.F. Caudron added a goal each, helping Stockton come-from-behind in three separate one-goal deficits.

STOCKTON VS. BAKERSFIELD - NATIONAL CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS
Game 1: Stockton 3 at Bakersfield 2 (OT)
Game 2: Stockton 4 at Bakersfield 3 (OT)
Game 3: Bakersfield at Stockton - Wednesday, April 21 - 7:00 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 4: Bakersfield at Stockton - Friday, April 23 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 5: Bakersfield at Stockton - Saturday, April 24 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena) *
Game 6: Stockton at Bakersfield - Tuesday, Apr. 27 - 7:00 p.m. (Rabobank Arena) *
Game 7: Stockton at Bakersfield - Wednesday, Apr. 28 - 7:00 p.m. (Rabobank Arena) *
* If necessary


Oren Eizenman led the Thunder with a pair of goals and scored the first OT winner of the playoffs in his career.
(photo by Anne-Marie Sorvin)

"We knew Bakersfield was going to push; we did a good job withstanding it and responding by pushing back," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "Once again I say that I'm proud of these guys. They came from behind in of the toughest buildings to play in the entire league and found a way to win two road games in overtime. That's what successful teams in the playoffs have to do and we proved again that we're capable of doing that."

Bakersfield took a 2-1 lead after one period while the Thunder lost 31-goal scorer Matt Robinson to a game misconduct on a five-minute boarding penalty early on Stephane Goulet, but Stockton killed off the entire penalty. Goulet would not return.

Sasha Pokulok got the Condors on the board, 1-0 with a wrist shot from the left point that caromed off traffic and zipped past Andrew Perugini's glove with 9:42 remaining.

Following the Robinson ejection and penalty kill, the Thunder quieted the Bakersfield crowd on Caudron's fifth goal of the postseason with 3:54 left.

Yet, a Ryan Menei power-play goal, after he hit a post on an open net for the second straight game, put Bakersfield ahead again, 2-1 when stuffed the rebound over a fallen Perugini.

Stockton roared back with a pair of goals in the second to tie the game, 3-3 at the end of two periods. Constant drilled a slapshot from the left point that snuck by Timo Pielmeier through traffic for a 2-2 tie with 9:23 left in the frame.

Just 2:10 later, Maxime Macenauer was awarded his first goal of the postseason when he converted off a jam play at the front the net, restoring Bakersfield's lead.

Yet, the Thunder responded with a power-play goal coming with 29.6 seconds remaining off an Eizenman rebound to level the score 3-3. Eizenman put the rebound past Pielmeier after Anthony Aiello's drive from the left point deflected off a Kelly Czuy screen at the front of the goal.

Both teams battled through a scoreless third period, with Perugini logging 12 saves and Pielmeier stopping 13 shots.

Following a series of back-and-forth scoring chances, Eizenman planted a backhander through the five hole of Pielmeier with 9:01 gone in the period after he darted out of the left corner, sending the Thunder flying off the bench in celebration for the second straight game.

Pielmeier, who was making his first appearance in net since Game 3 of the first round against Victoria, took the loss with 38 saves.

NOTES: The Thunder scratched Riley Emmerson (inactive list), Brett Hemingway (inactive list), Trevor Hunt (inactive list), Justin DaCosta (healthy) and Colin Hemingway (injury, day-to-day) ... the Thunder have won three of the last four playoff overtime games and improved to 2-0 in overtime in this year's playoffs ... the Thunder improved to 3-3 in Game 2 situations ... the Thunder surrendered the first goal of the game to the opposition for the sixth straight playoff game ... Bakersfield outshot Stockton, 44-42 but the Thunder owned 28-27 edge in the last two periods.

The series moves to Stockton for Game 3 between the Thunder and Condors, starting at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Apr. 21 at Stockton Arena. The game can be heard and viewed online exclusively at www.stocktonthunder.com, courtesy of B2 Networks (audio is free of charge). Tickets for Thunder home playoff games are available by calling (209) 373-1700 or by visiting www.StocktonTickets.com.

The Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, has led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew 223,854 fans to Stockton Arena in 2008-09. Season Tickets for 2009-10 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

THREE STARS:
1. STK - 9 Oren Eizenman
2. BAK - 32 Ryan Menei
3. STK - 12 J.F. Caudron

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Thunder Wins Game 1 In Overtime / A Thunder Game Recap


04/16/2010 10:58 PM

CAN-DO CAUDRON
Caudron's OT winner at 10:18 gives Stockton 1-0 series lead at Bakersfield

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FINAL STATS: BOX SCORE
AUDIO: Game highlights

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -J.F. Caudron scored a game-winning goal with 9:42 left in sudden death overtime to lift the Stockton Thunder to a come-from-behind 3-2 overtime victory over the Bakersfield Condors in Game 1 of the National Conference Semifinal round of the 2010 Kelly Cup Playoffs, before 5,208 fans at Rabobank Arena on Friday.

The Thunder, who seized home-ice advantage in the series with a 1-0 series lead and battled back from a 2-1 deficit with less than three minutes left in regulation, tied the game on a clutch power-play goal from Kelly Czuy and also received a second period goal from Jason Pitton.

In net, Andrew Perugini improved to 4-1 in the postseason with 43 saves.

STOCKTON VS. BAKERSFIELD - NATIONAL CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS
Game 1: Stockton 3 at Bakersfield 2 (OT)
Game 2: Stockton at Bakersfield - Saturday, Apr. 17 - 7:00 p.m. (Rabobank Arena)
Game 3: Bakersfield at Stockton - Wednesday, April 21 - 7:00 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 4: Bakersfield at Stockton - Friday, April 23 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena)
Game 5: Bakersfield at Stockton - Saturday, April 24 - 7:30 p.m. (Stockton Arena) *
Game 6: Stockton at Bakersfield - Tuesday, Apr. 27 - 7:00 p.m. (Rabobank Arena) *
Game 7: Stockton at Bakersfield - Wednesday, Apr. 28 - 7:00 p.m. (Rabobank Arena) *
* If necessary

"It's playoff hockey - you have to earn your goals and all three goals were scored from the paint," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "It's that time of year where you have you go in there and pay the price. I liked how we went in there and did that. J.F.'s play in overtime was reflective of our effort. Our penalty kill did give up two goals but the way we responded late in the game, our penalty killers could have arguably been the collective first star of the game, along with Perugini."

Bakersfield outshot Stockton, 12-7 in the opening period which featured a scoreless duel between Perugini and counterpart Jean-Philippe Levasseur. Perugini's highlight reel save in the period featured a post-to-post stop on the Condors' Dan Kissel in the early minutes.

Ryan Menei's power-play goal gave Bakersfield a 1-0 edge with 13:48 left in the second period, when he buried a rebound from the base of the left circle. Yet, just minutes after a Bakersfield penalty kill, Pitton's goal leveled the score at 1-1 just 2:59 after the Condors game-opening goal, when he converted Igor Gongalsky's centering pass from behind the net.

A power-play goal by Mark Voakes restored Bakersfield's lead to 2-1 just 2:08 into the third period, when he converted on a one-timer at the doorstep after Andrew Ianiero fed him from behind the net.

The Thunder got the clutch, game-tying goal when Czuy buried a rebound off a Matt Marquardt one-timer from the right point with just 2:57 remaining in regulation.

A tripping penalty that was issued to Bates put the Thunder penalty kill into action and a series of stops on Sasha Pokulok and MacGregor Sharp kept the score tied heading into sudden death overtime.

Following another penalty kill, the Thunder finally found the back of the net and sent Rabobank Arena into shock with Caudron's game-winner. After Levasseur stopped a Czuy slapshot from off the rush, Oren Eizenman fed the rebound to Steve Vanoosten, open at the right point.

Levasseur deflected Vanoosten's drive away, but Caudron picked up the rebound at the doorstep and slipped it past Levasseur's glove, sending the Thunder spilling off the bench in pandemonium.

Levasseur, making his first ever appearance in net, took the loss with 32 saves and fell to 2-2 in the playoffs.

NOTES: The Thunder scratched Riley Emmerson (inactive list), Brett Hemingway (inactive list), Trevor Hunt (inactive list), Justin DaCosta (healthy) and Colin Hemingway (injury, day-to-day) ... Stockton improved to 2-5 in playoff overtime games and grabbed its first OT winner on the road (1-1) ... Czuy's multi-point game was his fourth of the postseason ... the Thunder improved to 4-2 in Game 1 situations and 2-1 on the road in the 2010 postseason ... Kyle Calder, a ten-year veteran with five teams in the National Hockey League and playing on an NHL contract with Anaheim, was held scoreless after leading Bakersfield with seven points (5g-2a) in the first round.

The Thunder and Condors return to play for Game 2 of the series tomorrow at Rabobank Arena, starting at 7:30 p.m. before the series returns to Stockton for Game 3 on Wednesday, Apr. 21. Game 2 can be heard and viewed online exclusively at www.stocktonthunder.com, courtesy of B2 Networks (audio is free of charge). Tickets for Thunder home playoff games are available by calling (209) 373-1700 or by visiting www.StocktonTickets.com.

The Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, has led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew 223,854 fans to Stockton Arena in 2008-09. Season Tickets for 2009-10 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.


THREE STARS:
1. STK - 12 J.F. Caudron
2. STK - 35 Andrew Perugini
3. BAK - 9 Andrew Ianiero

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Steve Tambellini: State of the Organization


Steve Tambellini had his end of the season review with the Edmonton media today. He seems to be setting the tone for the rebuild process. That Management wants to see the organization undertake from top to bottom. Especially with what he wants to see with Oklahoma City next season. He calls the move of their Triple A affiliate to Oklahoma City, "A Significant Step" in the rebuild process. So they can control the players development, and get a core group developed for the future. Tambellini has stated before, that Management want the players to see "Transparency" when going from Oklahoma City to Edmonton.



In the 2nd Clip, Tambellini talks about Eberle's chances of making the club next season. Also on how he wants to see the Oilers' Swedish prospects signed during the summer. So that Management can determine the development status for placement in the organization. Linus Omark has already signed a 2 year entry level contract starting next season. Chris VandeVelde and Jeff Petry have already signed for next season.



In the Final Clip, Tambellini talks about how he wants to hear from Coaches Pat Quinn and Rob Daum about their assessments of both their teams this past season.



Tuesday, April 13, 2010

The Edmonton Oilers will have the 1st overall pick in the 2010 NHL draft.

The Edmonton Oilers will have the 1st overall pick in the 2010 NHL draft.

What an exciting time in Oil Country.

Now the big question. Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin?

2010 NHL Draft Lottery **LIVE TweetCast/Blog** 6:00 pm MDT


On Tuesday, April 13 at 6:00 p.m. MDT, the NHL Draft Lottery will take place and we here at Oilers Jambalaya are going to cover every minute of it.

It's the moment we have all been waiting for.

Do the Edmonton Oilers get that elusive 1st overall pick at this years NHL draft?

Do they pick 2nd? Today, we are going to find out.

Thanks for joining us at this LIVE *TweetCast* of the NHL Draft Lottery.

Monday, April 12, 2010

Our Playoff Picks And The Season Prediction


Here is our playoff predictions from the start of the season.  Let's just see how stupid we really are around here. lol.

Actual West Standings:
Sharks
Blackhawks
Canucks
Coyotes
Red Wings
Kings
Predators
Avalanche
----------------
Blues
Flames
Ducks
Stars
Wild
Blue Jackets
Oilers

 
Actual East Standings:
Capitals
Sabres
Devils
Penguins
Senators
Bruins
Flyers
Canadiens
-------------
Rangers
Thrashers
Hurricanes
Lightning
Islanders
Panthers
Leafs
Boy were we wrong. Colorado in 14th? Phoenix in 15th? Edmonton in 6th? Calgary in 3rd?

*face in palm*

So here are my 2009/10 Stanley Cup NHL Playoff Predicitons for this year.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Washington vs. (8) Montreal (Game One: 4/15 at 4 p.m. PST) WASHINGTON WINS IN 4

(2) New Jersey vs. (7) Philadelphia (Game One: 4/14 at 4:30 p.m. PST) DEVILS WIN IN 7

(3) Buffalo vs. (6) Boston (Game One: 4/15 at 4 p.m. PST) BRUINS WIN IN 6

(4) Pittsburgh vs. (5) Ottawa (Game One: 4/14 at 4 p.m. PST) PENGUINS WIN IN 5

WESTERN CONFERENCE

(1) San Jose vs. (8) Colorado (Game One: 4/14 at 7:30 p.m. PST) COLORADO WINS IN 6

(2) Chicago vs. (7) Nashville (Game One: 4/16 at 5:30 p.m. PST) CHICAGO WINS IN 5

(3) Vancouver vs. (6) Los Angeles (Game One: 4/15 at 7 p.m. PST) CANUCKS WIN IN 6

(4) Phoenix vs. (5) Detroit (Game One: 4/14 at 7 p.m. PST) DETROIT WINS IN 6

------------------------------

Who's in the 2009-10 Stanley Cup Finals?

Smokin' Ray - Chicago vs. Washington

Paq Twinn - San Jose vs. Washington.

-Smokin' Ray-

Thank You Springfield Falcons!


Just like that, the Springfield Falcons are now under control of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Check out the website. It's changed. No more Edmonton Oilers.

I want to thank the Springfield Falcons for working with us at Oilers Jambalaya this season. Your hospitality was greatly appreciated. Good luck to your team next year.

-Smokin' Ray-

Common Themes - A Look Into The Past

I would have to think with Souray coming out and speaking his mind like this about the management team is true, you really need to step back and look at things again.

Souray was quoted as saying, "I wasn’t even ready to play when I came here, but it was like, ‘We signed you, you go out and play.’ I hadn’t been cleared to play yet, but I was being questioned by the organization:‘When are you going to be able to play?’".

Wow! If this statement has any merit and it's true, then I'm shocked.

Souray also had this to say, ""I got challenged by management on the very first day of my first training camp. The very first day," he said. "They said, ‘When are you going to play?’ I said, ‘I have a six month (shoulder) injury and I’m at five months.’ But I played."

Again. Wow!

But, if you look at another player in this organization, I could see what Souray is saying as true.

Nikolai Khabibulin: He was signed in the summer as "damaged goods". The Oilers knew full well what they were getting into with Khabbi. They knew he couldn't pull a Luongo and go 70 something games. Yet, when the season started, how many games did Khabbi play before he was hurt? How many games did Jeff Deslauriers play as a backup?

Khabbi played 4 games to start the year in a row, with JDD getting in for one. Khabbi then played 5 games straight, while again, JDD plays one. Then he plays 6 and sits for one before playing 3 more and he's done for the year.

Why was Khabibulin played so much? Who made that choice? Bucky? Quinn? Tambellini? Lowe? Katz?

That was a real stupid move on someone's part and seeing what Souray said, I'd put some blame on Tambellini. Wouldn't you?

Seeing what Souray says, it all makes sense. In fact, I bet there is a lot of stories like this out there. *cough* Staios. *cough* concussion.

-Written by Smokin' Ray-

Two Guys & Hockey Talk NHL News (CLICK PIC FOR LINK)

The Faithful Followers

Oilers Jambalaya is in no way, shape or form associated with the Edmonton Oilers or the Bakersfield Condors. This is a fans blog for fans. We happen to love those teams, so we write about them.