Beers and Jeers #27 (Feb 3/09 vs. Chicago Blackhawks)

To start the night off, I'm relaxing and I'm playing with my daughter. I better check out OilersNation tonight. What? Someone says it's a PPV. I look on my wallpaper made by the Edmonton Oilers. It says it's on Sportsnet. Can the well oiled machine we call the Oilers make a mistake like that again? (I say again because they did this last month too.) Surprise! You have to pay to watch them lose. I wonder what the PPV record is? I think I have only been satisfied 3 times this year. Whatever, they better win or they should have the team come door to door and hand me/us a refund for every crap game that I/we pay for.

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1st Period

- The game started off with some great action and massive amounts of intensity. There was some big hits from the 4th line. Stortini even managed cause a bit of emotion by throwing a couple of real nice hits, which Matt Walker to exception to. The two fought and it was a draw. 10 seconds later Moreau goes down behind the Hawks net and flicks it. It deflects of a stick and over the net and knocks of of Huet and goes in. Talk about lucky goal. Try and do that one twice. The halfway mark poses a bad time line for the Oilers. This is when the defensive blunders begin and never really go away. Chicago slowly picks up the momentum and pace. This can't be good. The Oilers escape the period with the lead 1-0. Lucky us. So far so good. Well... Roli was good. One of the main reasons the Oilers are leading.

1st line-Not Effective, 2nd line-Effective, 3rd line-somewhat effective, 4th line-Effective

2nd Period

-Started out pretty good. Came out hopping. But wouldn't you know it. Who takes a penalty? Moreau (surprise!), and Chicago scores (double surprise!). Tie game and the momentum has changed. I guess this nullifies the fluke goal he had in the 1st period. Now he's back to being just average. Hmmm. From this point on the Hawks had their way with the Oilers like they were in prison and the Oilers were newbies. At the (approx) 13:00 mark of the 2nd period, the PPV crew just so happened to show the shot clock. 27-9 in favor of the Hawks. Nice. Good thing for Roli. But 3 minutes later Chicago scores and makes it 2-1. So much for the 1-0 lead after the 1st.

1st line-Not Effective, 2nd line-Effective, 3rd line-Not Effective, 4th line-Effective

3rd Period

-Of course, Chicago comes out of the gate firing like a old guy from the old days. You know... the guys with guns. Chicago was owning this period as well. I really thought that this was going to be an Oiler period. I guess I was wrong. (what's new?) At about the 5:52 minute mark Visnovsky goes in to throw a hit to one of the Hawks but doesn't really get all of him. Boom! Shoulder pops out. Damn that's gotta hurt. I suppose he will be gone for a couple weeks. (unless he is like Mr. Gumby Stortini?) That sucks. The team really needs him. However the Hawks take a penalty and the Oilers go on the PP. MacT sends out Gagner / Horcoff / Hemsky / Souray / Grebeshkov. They look good, but do nothing. And wouldn't you know it... the Hawks score 2 minutes later after they kill off the penalty. Son of a gun. 3-1 Hawks. Chicago continues on dominating this game. The Oilers do get a chance at the end of the game with a PP. MacT even pulls Roli. But no deal today. Hemsky even gets a nice feed and goes in on a breakaway. But doesn't score. And that's the final buzzer. Thank god!

1st line-Not Effective, 2nd Line-Effective, 3rd line-Not Effective, 4th line-Effective

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Tonight's Starting Lines

Nilsson Horcoff Hemsky (This line sucked tonight. They had zero chances and were out played all game. Hemsky was rocked a few times and made him puck shy. He wasn't the same all game. Maybe the concussion is back? But what's Horcoff's and Ricky Bobby's problem?)

Potulny Gagner Cole (I quite liked this line. Gagner seemed to fall down a lot in the 1st. I wonder if his ankle isn't quite as good as they say it is? Potulny is a great player. He compliments Cole and Gags quite nicely. I would expect these guys to do well on the next 3 game roadie.)

Moreau Cogliano Pouliot (Moreau was going good in the beginning and then petered off half ways through the game. Pouliot started sucking from when the anthems were played. Cogliano wasn't noticeable tonight. That's not really a good thing.)

Penner Brodziak Stortini (This line was quite good. Lots of energy (I know... Penner and energy sound weird together) Lots of Jam as MacT likes to say. They created good scoring chances and were providing all the big hits. Maybe this is the new 3rd line?)

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FINAL SCORE

Chicago Blackhawks - 3

Edmonton Oilers - 1

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BEERS

Dwayne Roloson

- If anyone on this team is deserving of a beer it's Roli. The man does what he can every single game. He is everything a team looks for in a goalie. (except his age) Roli made 41 saves tonight. In fact, have two beers Roli. One to drink and one for the bruises. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

- Ryan Potulny (I liked the way he played tonight. Good all around guy. Smart decisions.), The 4th Line (A great line tonight. see above)

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JEERS

Marc Pouliot

- You only played 12:45 and you managed 3 giveaways. Nice. Pouliot was a big reason why the 3rd line sucked tonight. 0 shots and 0 hits. Not good stats for a checking line guy. I would have to think that Mr. Poo will be sitting out the next game. Silly rabbit... tricks are for kids. Booooooooooooooooooo!

Ales Hemsky

- Look, I understand that your linemates were very crappy this evening. But, after taking those couple hits you seemed to fold like an accordion. Or maybe more like a disappearing magician? Either way, if you want to be counted on to be the "guy" then these are those times when you need to shine. A time to step it up. And you didn't. Maybe if Big Mac was in the line up you may not have had such a rough night. But you were MIA. Until the last 30 seconds. Sorry, but I have no chioce. Booooooooooooooooooo!

The Entire Team

- Quit wasting my god dang hard earned money. Booooooooooooooooooooooo!

The Kevin "What?" Quinn / Rob "Plugs" Brown Broadcast team

- Nice work tonight ladies. Rob Brown was on top of his game tonight. "Kent Nilsson makes a nice pass here... I mean Robert." Wrong decade Plugs. or "he almost scores on the 7 hole" My Wife and I both said "what?" at the same time. I can tell you what hole I would shove a puck in for Mr. Brown though. Rob Brown is a moron, and he gets paid for this?

- Kevin Quinn is no different. He likes to change words. "Oh...it looks like he needs to get a new twig" A twig Kevin? or "he's off to the bench to get a new cue." Wrong sport. Oh these guys are quite a pair. Such a crappy pair of crap. The Oilers seriously couldn't find anyone better? So for the two morons that take a pay cheque to be unprepared for every PPV... Boooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

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Well that was another dollar wasted. And I'm sure I'll do it again. But until next time...

Beers and Jeers #26 (Feb 1/09 vs Nashville Predators)

Nothing like waking up and turning on the tv for some Oiler action. It makes for a nice reason to start drinking before the Super Bowl a little later on in the day. Isn't everyone drinking?

So the game begins. Nice flow. The play goes back and forth, with the Oilers with the most forth. The Oilers looked quite good. At first I was bummed right out that Big Mac wasn't in the line up. Then 30 seconds later Sportsnet reports that Tootoo is out for the next while. Ok. Redemption will be a little later in the season I guess. But Strudwick MacT? Why not Stortini? I guess he likes to keep us guessing. All in all the 1st period was entertaining. The 2nd line was the best line, while he 1st line was the worst. Pretty sad when Penner can bring down the whole line. End of period score: 0-0.

The 2nd period started and so did the MacBlender. Brrrrrmmrmm... By the time I realised that Mac had the blender on (I thought it was sloppy line changes) Nashville scores. Crap! 1-0. Almost instantly the Oilers turn up the intensity. That continues until the period raps up. The 2nd line was still the best line when together. End of period score: 1-0 Nashville

The 3rd started and I was curios what MacT was going to do. He did the obvious... he benched Penner. So Nilsson took his spot on the 1st line. Moreau moved up to the 2nd line in replace of Nilsson. About half ways through the 3rd Nashville scores again to make it 2-0. One minute later Hemsky scored to make it 2-1. Nice shot, top corner. The game gets more intense as the game wears on. It ended up being close but no cigar for the Oilers. They came close at the end but with no avail. I suppose the lines will be different for next game. I could see Penner on the 4th line. I mean, he should be on the 4th line.

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Tonight's Starting Lines:

Penner Horcoff Hemsky (This line is drastically dragged down by Penner and his half ass play. Hemsky deserves better than this. Expect Nilsson to be on this line next game.)

Nilsson Potulny Cole (I really liked this line. Potulny looked good playing with Cole. Even Moreau seemed to fit on this line.)

Moreau Cogliano Pouliot (Pouliot is dead weight to the Oilers right now. He hasn't contributed in awhile. Brodziak may be a better fit.)

Strudwick Brodziak Reddox (This line had one good shift where they were in a good puck cycling mode. Other than that a waste of a line.)

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Final Score:

Nashville Predators - 2

Edmonton Oilers - 1

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BEERS

Ales Hemsky

- He scored a nice goal from a nice feed from Nilsson. Hemsky did what he could tonight although we all know he could have done more. He can thank the old ball and chain Penner. He played 23:17, took 6 shots and had terrible line mates all while scoring a goal. You deserve a beer my friend. Cheers!

Erik Cole

- The man of hustle and hard work showed up again today. He could have been dynamite if Gags was playing today. But he didn't and life goes on. Even though he had no points today I though that Cole was very effective. He played 22:00, took 3 shots and had a team leading 6 hits. Good job today Cole and thanks for the stick tape secrets. Frosty? Cheers!

Ethan Moreau

- Chopper was a shooter today. He took 14 shots only to hit the net 9 times. Wow. When did he become a shooter? He was good today. Pretty mistake free. All that in 15:39 of playing time. I think that's worth a frosty cold one. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

- Dwayne Roloson (I thought Roli was great again. He did what he could and that was a lot. But if the guys in front of you don't score then it's hard to win as a goalie)

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JEERS

Tom Gilbert

- The flub in the 2nd period cost the Oilers the 1st goal and quite possibly the game as the momentum shifted to Nashville. The Oilers played pretty solid up until that point. Gilbert did play a ton today however, and mistakes are bound to happen. But still... Booooooooooo!

Dustin Penner

- You must be some kind of a joke right? I know your a funny guy but come on. Try a little hard work once in awhile. I bet his report cards were like mine. "(Ray/Dustin) is a pleasure to have in class, but he needs to focus on better work habits in order to be sucessful." How MacT even let you play 13:26 today is beyond me. Your on the 1st line. The 1st line! Any other team and you are not. My patience is out on this guy. Boooooooooooooooooooo!

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Well I have to prepare for my own game tonight. It's a good thing I don't write B&J for my team. I would be Booed out of the arena. I hope I am not too bad tonight because the wife and kid are coming to watch. Yikes! I want to be a Souray but I'm more of a Smid. (but less spazzy)

See everyone one on Tuesday. Until then...

Beers and Jeers #25 (Jan 30/09 vs. Minnesota Wild)

Well, was that the Edmonton Oilers? I couldn't believe my eyes. The puck just drops and Staios absolutely nails a Wild player. Then drops the gloves and backs up his actions. Nice veteran move. That instantly moved the momentum to the Oilers side. 4 minutes later Hemsky scores a lucky one. Yes! Great start. Take that Flames fans... Anyways. The guys that I have been hardest on lately we very good in the 1st period. Sure they wanted the "young" guys to take ownership for their actions. But with out the strong veteran leadership group taking charge and leading this team much like they did in this game, we would be a much better team for it. Am I wrong?

Big Mac vs. The Bogeyman #1

- This was a good fight for Big Mac. He looked really nervous at the start. But excited. The dukes went up and the waiting game began. Once the fight started it was a pretty good one. No real "big" punches that did any damage. But shots were felt. It ended a draw. Then as Big Mac was skating off you could see him grin. He felt good. He wasn't broken. And that fight did a lot for the rest of the game. Bogey was not a factor at all tonight. Mission accomplished.

Period 2 was also great. Lots of action. The play was pretty back and forth. Visnovsky scores a beauty. The Oilers PP was not great. 1for 5 for the game. This could have been a 7-1 game instead 3-1. I'm not really complaining... but I am.

The 3rd period started and wouldn't you know it. I go out for a smoke (What? you smoke Smokin' Ray? *pause* oooooooooh.... I get it, Smokin' Ray.) and the Wild score. What the hell? I know, I said the same thing. But the Oilers stared to play a tight game and really held off the Wild. Roloson was a monster (screw you Pierre MacGuire) in this game. He deserves a lot of credit tonight. He played great. Oilers hang on to win the game. All is good in the Oilers Nation once again.

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Tonight's Lines

Penner Horcoff Hemsky (This line was kind of a dud line. Hemsky was good. Penner was a blob of blue and copper. Horcoff... he wasn't bad tonight. Not great. But not bad either.)

Nilsson Potulny Cole (Nilsson is a ticking time bomb with the puck. It may explode. It may be a gift for the opposing team. Potulny was average as he only played 11:02. Horcoff and Cogliano took his spot on occasion. Cole was good tonight. Admit it Cole... you miss your little buddy Sam.)

Moreau Cogliano Pouliot (This line and the 4th line changed throughout the game. MacT was trying to get things going. But yet last game, the lines never changed. Go figure? Moreau - Good, Cogliano - good / he belongs on the 3rd line, Poulot - 4th line guy / average.)

Strudwick Brodziak MacIntyre (This wasn't really a line that did anything. Big Mac fought, but only played 2:13. He did mange 2 hits, and they were good ones. Strudwick was a puzzling choice. I was thinking more along the lines of Stortini in the mix tonight. But once again... what do I know? Brodziak was a faceoff machine. He was out for a lot of the "big" draws. He did ok at 6-4 for 60%.)

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FINAL SCORE

Minnesota Wild - 1

Edmonton Oilers- 3

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BEERS

Dwayne Roloson

- I will be the first to admit that I didn't think it was a good idea to put Roli in for this game. Ex team, they know his weak spots, losing record against Wild. But like I have said a million times. What do I know? He was brilliant tonight. He made huge saves when needed and was a fierce competitor till the end. I have always liked Roli, but tonight he raised my respect level for him. His mental toughness is second to none. He knows how to be a real professional. He has been since he has become an Oiler. Good days or bad days... the man is class. Have a beer Gramps. Show these kids how to drink. Cheers!

Steve Staios

- I want to say that if Steve Staios could play like that every game, he could be a real high level NHL defenseman. He did everything right tonight. I have had a huge mean streak for Staios lately, but I can say that tonight he made me stand up and cheer. He made me believe that this team is the team that I say they are. A team of champions. Hard hitting. Shot blocking. The knuckle breaking dedication that it is what it takes to get to the show. (That didn't make sense to me either.) To win the cup. Hopefully he maintains this and we continue towards that silver lining. Mr Staios sir. Enjoy a frosty. Cheers!

Ethan Moreau

- The captain came through tonight. He played the same way as Staios did. Well, except he scored. Chopper provided everything that he has lacked in the last while. The penaz. Or swagger. Whatever... he was damn good. In fact. Have a Mountain Crest Chopper. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

- Andrew Cogliano (I think he belongs on the 3rd line. That just may be his niche. Horcoff Jr., but better. 2 assist night with great play making. Solid game for Cogs), Lubomir Visnovsky (How good is he? How many dmen take a shot and continue into the slot and bang in their own rebound? Lubo does. And he does it well. He played a real solid game.), Sheldon Souray (When doesn't he play good?)

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JEERS

I could complain about a few little things but what the hell? We won. YAY!

Ok. Just a little...

Dustin Penner

- This guy is a slug. I really think MacT should bench him again. And again in 15 games. And repeat, until he can produce in a consistent manner. The guy is lazy. The guy drives me mad. Hello? You play on a 1st line. With Hemsky. And you do what? Lolly gag? Moron. Shape up. Booooooooooo!

Liam Reddox

- This is only because it makes me feel good, and you suck. Booooooooooooooooo!

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Sunday is the next game. 12 noon vs Nashville. Tough game. Hope the same Oilers attend that game. Until next time...

REMEMBER: You are only as good as your last game... and we were freaking awesome!

Beers and Jeers #23 (Jan 20/09 vs. Columbus Blue Jackets)

That was a good game to watch. Great 1st period by the Oilers. A nice hard bomb by Visnovsky. My two picks for having a good game today was Visnovsky and Souray. Lubo played well. Damn he's fast. Souray was ok. Not his best game. Maybe his mind is on the All Star game?

The 2nd period was one of those "I wanna mess with your mind" periods. One minute I'm pissed off. The next I'm in an euphoric state... then BAM! Sad and wondering where it all went wrong. We looked so good. And now it's catch up time once again.

The 3rd started off with good energy. Chances were had by all. Back and forth. Back and forth. Then Boll runs Roli and the intensity rises. People around the league should know by now that there is some players (Iginla is one) who play better when they are mad. Roli is another one of them. And that made him mad. Thank you Mr. Boll. Then comes a Blue Jacket penalty. Hemsky makes one of those crazy passes back door. But Horcoff wasn't there. Grebeshkov was. He Scores!!! Tie game.

Well now what?

So I say, "Ummm... Hello? Mr. Hemsky? Can you do something?" "Sure kid.", he says. "Can you score the Nation a goal?", I ask. "Well since I'm not busy going to the All Star game... why not. How about a wrist shot?" Well wouldn't you know it. The guy is magic. The Oilers win. All of the sudden we are 6th in the standings. Yeah! Life is good again. Way to go team. Enjoy the break. But not too much. MacT won't have that.

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The Lines Tonight

Penner Horcoff Hemsky (they looked good. Penner was slow tonight. But Hemsky was magic.)

Nilsson Gagner Cole (Cole and Gags played good. Nilsson didn't look like he was back to normal yet.)

Moreau Cogliano Pouliot (These guys also played a solid game. Pouliot was the weak link on this line.

MacIntyre Brodziak Brule (I liked this line. I would probably make this a more usable line. I'd give Big Mac a little more ice. Not much. But a little.)

FINAL SCORE

Blue Jackets - 3

Oilers - 4

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BEERS

Ales Hemsky

- The man is back. And back with a bang. A 4 point night. He was unbelievable tonight. He was everything that we want him to be. An All Star. Yeah... I said it. An All Star. Have a frosty beer. In fact have as many as you want Hemmer. Cheers!

Lubomir Visnovsky

- 2 point night for Lubo. I thought that he was great tonight. Good back checking. Good shooting. Good all around game. I say you deserve a beer Mr. Visnovsky. Cheers!

Ladislav Smid

- If you were watching the play you probably didn't notice him much. But I like to watch the corner of the screen to see what is going on behind the play. There was Smid. Digging and grinding. My wife calls him the "SPAZ". One minute he's all good. The next he's frothing at the mouth ready to bite. Maybe because I am a little scared of him, have a beer Smid. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

- Dwayne Roloson (When Roli gets fired up... so do I. I love this guy. Tambo made the right decision.), Tom Gilbert (2 assists tonight. Jumped up in some plays. Finished +1), Shawn Horcoff (he played pretty good tonight. Threw his body around and was skating hard.)

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JEERS

I don't have any. I've got nothing. I am actually happy.

Ok then. Well I guess I should go now. Hmmm. This is weird.

Beers and Jeers #20 (Jan 15/09 vs. Minnesota Wild)

That was one of the worst games that I have seen this year from the Oilers. On one side, Minny sucks to watch. Probably my least favorite team to watch. On the other side, the entire Oiler team looked scared and timid. Until the 3rd of course. But to little to late. Penalty after penalty can't really help the cause. Plus it makes it hard to make any type of a comeback. Then the bakery opens and turnovers are served to everyone wearing a Wild jersey. (not sure why the stats were not picked up) That was a pathetic game. Just pathetic.

There was two moments that really got me going. The two fights (Smid/Sheppard fight and Souray/Weller fight) I loved how Moreau tried to steal Souray's thunder by trying to get in the fight. Loser. Learn to be a Captain. If anyone should demand anything (firing/trade/demotion) ... it should be the removal of the 'C'. It's not on the right person.

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BEERS

I am giving a beer to both Smid and Souray for their respective fights. They were both entertaining and made me actually excited about something. Smid made his fight look good by throwing the bombs. Good to see him do something. Souray absolutely killed Weller. massive lefts to the skull. A real dandy of a fight. And people really want fighting removed from the NHL? If that fight didn't entertain you then maybe hockey isn't your sport. Cheers to the both of you!

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JEERS

The entire team sucked tonight. I am surprised that I am even writing anything. Horcoff sucked. Moreau sucked. Cole sucked. Penner sucked. Gagner sucked. Cogliano sucked. Roloson sucked. Gilbert sucked. MacT sucked. Everyone sucked. Even Reddox sucked. BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

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I really hope that tomorrow's game is better. I'd imagine that Garon gets the start. But you never know... Could be Deslauriers.

With my wife and daughter going home to B.C. for a week, I suppose you will see a little more content on here to read. Maybe a new Mr. Belvedere? Maybe something new all together. Ohhhh.... exciting. Stay tuned.

Thanks to everyone for all the support.

Beers and Jeers #19 (Jan 13/09 vs Washington Capitals)

That was a better game than last game. I still don't like to be out shot but the win is good. There were a few guys that looked like this was their team. There was a few guys who were tweeners. And of course there were the last few that were stinkers.

I am a little amazed that with all the inner troubles on the team, our Captain Moreau isn't more of a captain and has dealt with it. I have been the captain of a few teams. I have had to be the middle man lots. No big deal. That is part of being a captain. But he hasn't been doing that. Sure there was a closed door meeting. That doesn't mean that Chopper shouldn't have already dealt with this. As a captain. On his own. There has been talk that MacT is to blame for this mess. Wanye Gretz over at Oilersnation.com wrote a nice piece about this. I still blame the leaders (Moreau, Horcoff, Staios) for the sub-par play but it's a good read and a different point of view. Plus he has inside info and I don't.

http://www.oilersnation.com/2009/01/real-talk/

Back to the game. The Oilers were good tonight. I really didn't think that this game was going to go well. I guess I was wrong. The 2nd line was clearly the 1st line tonight. As the games go on MacT is starting a love affair with Cole. Bout time. I still do not understand the Reddox situation. I feel embarrassed almost when fans from the other teams ask me what is going on. I don't even want to answer them. I shrug my shoulders and smile. I don't make the lines.

Anyways it was a fun game to watch all around. Let's get on with the booing and beer drinking.

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BEERS

Steve MacIntyre

- Well Big Mac scored his 1st ever NHL goal. Awesome. I bet that is what he said too. One shot, one goal. Not bad. I was a little sad that he didn't fight, but oh well. We win. He played a whopping 3:40 and even though he really didn't contribute a whole lot... He deserved a beer. Not any old beer but a big beer. Cheers!

Erik Cole

- This guy is getting my vote for MVP of the team. Hemsky is good but no one puts out an effort like Cole does. The guy gives his all. When you play with Cole you can't help but bust your butt as well. That is one of the main reasons why Gagner is excelling right now. It's like a yawn... it's contagious. Cole had the most shots on the team tonight. He also had 2 takeaways to go with the 3 goals. Once again I sit and drink with Cole. Frosty mug time... Cheers!

Kyle Brodziak

- A great all around game from Brodziak. He was the old Horcoff. (geez, I hope he doesn't ask for $7 million too.) 2 assists, +4 and 3 blocked shots. Now I am not a real big Brodziak fan, but if he could play like this every game he would be a favorite of mine. Good game tonight. Have a beer. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

- Gilbert Brule (He played a solid game. 2 point night.) Steve Staios (excellent shot blocking on #8. He played well too.) Dwayne Roloson (Another beauty from Gramps.)

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JEERS

Not much to really boo here. That was a pretty good game. Lots of hustle. Not quite a 60 minute game but real close. The team really does need to get more shots. To see Ovechkin blast them from all over, he really made it look easy. Why can't an Oiler do that?

There was however a few players that were not playing above par. These players were not very good IMO. Shawn Horcoff, Ethan Moreau, Liam Reddox, Dustin Penner, Tom Gilbert and at times MA Pouliot were all pretty stinky.

Gilbert made some bad passes. In fact I think somewhere Robin Brownlee is laughing

Reddox looked like a bantam player.

I only noticed Horcoff because he plays so much.

No real physical jam from Chopper. He did however have 0 hits. Awesome.

Pouliot didn't look right all night. Except for that one PP where he was with Cogs and Gags.

Penner. Did he play?

Now that I think of it all six of you deserve a jeer. Boooooooooo!

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Next up... The Wild.

Beers and Jeers #16 (Jan 7/09 vs Vancouver Canucks)

Well...

What was that? The game was on the verge of becoming a classic but it never happened. This Oilers team is really starting to bug me. I compare them to crack. You know... you get a little taste of the good stuff. Oh man it feels great. It feels so good. You want more. OH MAN CAN LIFE BE SWEETER? (what feels like 30 seconds later...) Awww man. What's going on? Why does it hurt so much? Why can't I have more?

See what I mean? It sucks. The Oilers during the 1st period looked like a bunch of peewee hockey players. Falling down like their legs don't move. Pathetic. 3 PP's and 8 shots. Wow. Stellar.

The 2nd was almost boring to watch. Except for the Canucks kicking our ass. The 3rd at least was better. I am not sure why the Oilers insist on waiting for the 3rd before they start trying.

Top face off guy for the Oilers this game.... Sam Gagner. 5-3 (63%)

The worst face off guy... Andrew Cogliano. again. 3-5 (38%)

The most giveaways... Ethan Moreau a whopping 5 giveaways. Atta boy!

The most blocked shots... Staios and Visnovsky with 4 each.

The most hits... Erik Cole with 4 hits and multiple rub downs.

The most shots... Sheldon Souray with 5 shots and 3 attemps blocked. He out shot the forwards? Really?

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on a side note: Congrats to Souray for making the all-star game. Nice to have someone represent. What does Hemsky have to do to make an all-star game? Play in Montreal? Or Pittsburgh? The guy is an all-star that doesn't get the nod to go to the game. Bogus NHL. Explain how Doan is more of an all-star then Hemmer. (other than points) Or Dustin Brown? I don't know... Maybe I am a nut bar.

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BEERS

Erik Cole

- This guy is everything that I would want in a player. He never seems to give up. Seems like he is willing to try anything. And he can score the odd goal. He played a real good game tonight. Need I say more? Have a Beer Erik. Cheers!

Sheldon Souray

- The big boom was pretty good tonight. A couple of bad giveaway plays but more than makes up for it. His fight was nice. Seems like the Oilers are a bunch of one punchers. Your probably getting sick of beer by now? Ahhhh balderdash. Cheers!

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JEERS

The Entire Team

- Wow you guys sucked tonight. With all the trade talk, I wonder if this was the last time that we see Horcoff in an Oiler jersey? Something has got to give and I fully expect someone gone by Thursday morning. Just a bad game tonight. I am not sure the coaching staff understood you Tambo. Better say it to them one more time and a little sloooowwweeerrr. Boooooooooooooooo!

Dwayne Roloson

- Terrible game Roli. You usually play good when your mad. But not tonight. That wasn't the Roli from last game. That was the stinker Roli from last year. Sorry man but you deserve this. Boooooooooooo!

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Next up. San Jose Sharks. Hope we have the other team this time.

Beers and Jeers #15 (Jan 5/09 vs New York Islanders)

Wow! Canada played a heck of a game tonight. Exciting as ever. I think it topped the last game for excitement. Good job Eberle and Team... The drive for 5 is done. Now on to #6.

The Oilers started the game out pretty crappy. The crap that Horcoff was doing was horrendus. Not sure why he decided to play tonight? The 2nd period was much better. The 4th line was hopping. Roli was getting better as the game wore on. The 3rd period started off good. And then it just rolled on. Cogs scored though. Made it 3-2. The faceoffs were much better tonight. Cogliano and Horcoff were the 2 worst. They need to get better. ASAP. You know it's kind of sad when your #4 line is your #1. Hurry up and come back Hemmer.

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BEERS

Jason Strudwick

- The man was an offensive dynamo. Well one goal may not make him a dynamo, he sure played well. He was hitting and doing all the small things right. I felt bad for him when everyone is high fiving him and them the goal gets changed. Ouch. But my wife said it was ok. He had the momentum to do it again. Don't tell her this, but she was right. The 4th line was a force to be reckoned with and Jason Strudwick did his share and more tonight. Great game. Have a frosty beer. Cheers!

Zack Stortini

- The big guy looked like a hockey player tonight. His improvement in the last couple of weeks is nothing short of a miracle. I said a couple of weeks ago that if Huggy wants to keep his spot then he best improve before Big Mac returns. By golly he did. He really did. I thought that he played his butt off tonight. So for a snazzy effort. Have a nice paper bagged Colt 45. Cheers!

Tom Gilbert

- Even though he didn't really put up any numbers. He was in my opinion very effective. He played the man/body very well. His decision making was very quick and correct. Overall I just really liked what he brought to the game. Have a Heineken Gilbert. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

- Erik Cole (played a solid game. No points but a great effort.) Dwayne Roloson (good game. Made the stops that were needed.) Sam Gagner (Did very well on the faceoffs and was shooting up a storm.) Mathieu Garon (I'm sure he did a great job opening the bench door. jk)

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JEERS

Shawn Horcoff

- Why did you decide to play tonight? Nice cough up in the 1st period. How did it feel to see that puck go in the net? Probably pretty crappy I suspect. Shawn's off beat game continued throughout the entire game. Penner looked like the only one trying to do anything tonight on that line. So for playing and playing very badly... Boooooooooo!

Robert Nilsson

- I think Ricky Bobby was trying to hard tonight to look like a playmaker instead of a shooter. That is what Gagner is there for. Shoot the puck. Please. So for doing nothing but bring down your line mates. Booooooooooo!

Liam Reddox

- Not sure why Robbie Schremp isn't in your shoes right now. MacT said when a top six guy goes down then Rob would be the next call up. But they called Brule. Ok. Fair enough. But tell me why is Reddox playing on the top line? I don't understand what it is that I can't see here. I don't know... maybe it's just me? Boooooooooooo!

Beers and Jeers #14 (Jan 3/09 vs. Dallas Stars)

Well, the curse is over. Thank god. I was starting to think that those jerseys were a bad idea. Glad I can move on. :) Pretty good game overall by the Oilers. The PK was better tonight. The overall team toughness was going strong. That is a good sign that this team is progressing into more of a competitive team. Still miss Hemsky though...

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BEERS

Erik Cole

- The man is quickly turning into my favorite Oiler this year. He seems to be more comfortable every game and his offence is starting to be more consistent. He can pick a pocket and make a play or land a big hit and this is all within one shift. He is just so big and fast. He can draw a penalty like a girl on 118th ave can draw Johns. That is pretty impressive. So for another whopper of a game. Enjoy a beer Mr. Cole. Cheers!

Sheldon Souray

- He really was the force behind the team as the game started. Nice goal to keep the train rollin'. He kind of did look like Paul Coffey. This very well could have been one of his best games this year. So for that, have a 40oz of Big Bear. Cheers!

Sam Gagner

- I thought that the little dude was pretty good tonight. Made some really nice passes/plays. He seems to have nice vision right now. Two assists again tonight. When it rains it pours I suppose. I think Sam deserves a frosty beer. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

Dwayne Roloson (played very good tonight. Made great saves and was a rock again for the Oil), Kyle Brodziak (did pretty good on the draw this game), Shawn Horcoff (played pretty solid. Gave a good effort. Didn't really screw up to bad.) Bobby Nilsson (how did he get a +2? Nice pass to Cogs), The Fourth Line (played nice and physical. Couple of fights and some real nice hits.)

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JEERS

Not much to Jeer tonight. Well except Marc Crawford. I hate that guy. Booooooooo!

Beers and Jeers #12 (Dec 28/08 vs Nashville Predators)

Well, that was a good game to watch. It was a real total team effort tonight folks. Amazing what can happen when you play a full 60 minute game. About time. Nice to see three lines producing goals tonight. No one really stood out as playing bad. Well one. But you have to read on to find out. Good job Oilers!

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BEERS

Erik Cole

- What a stellar game from Erik Cole tonight. I knew if he kept plugging along things would turn around for him. And see what happens when you move him to the desperation line (Nilsson/Gagner/Cole). Magic. I guess I could say told you so but I won't. Maybe MacT has been reading my blog? How do you know? lol. Anyways... these three guys need to produce and they did tonight. I am afraid that I am making Mr. Cole into an alcoholic. So for playing an excellent game... Have a cold one Erik. Cheers!

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Sam Gagner

- The little dude was awesome tonight. Slick moves, nice passes and great down low work along the boards. By rights he should have received an assist on the Souray bomb. He did all the work but was the 4th guy to touch the puck. But regardless Gags played a hell of a game. Beer Sam? Sure you will... Cheers!

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Visnovsky/Souray

- These two guys are one of the main reason we are still in a some what respectable position in the standings. Their work ethic and their never give up attitudes are really showing lately. 2 points each tonight. I try and think of when we have had a better duo in Edmonton. I have to go way back for that. No guys... Further back then the dreaded Janne Niinimaa/Roman Hamrlík duo. I am pretty excited that we have these guys locked up for quite some time. Then you add Gilbert and Grebs. This could be one of the best top 4 in the league. So here Boys... One frosty each. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

- Dwayne Roloson (Another outstanding game for Roli. We needed a rock and he became one.) Dustin Penner (Good hustle out there tonight. Really showed that he was trying. Maybe even more than Horcoff and Hemsky.) Kyle Brodziak (He was pretty good on faceoffs tonight.)

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JEERS

Shawn Horcoff

- Oh why, oh why do you annoy me so much? Where did your heart go? Stats are not everything. Sure you had a goal. That was good. But... You were pretty bad on the faceoff dot tonight. When you are the one that is sent out on the important draws you need to win at least 50%. 60% or higher would be more ideal but we will take anything over 50%. Your back checking was average. When Hemsky went down and managed to come back, the only guy on that line that was trying his butt off was Penner. I expect more out of Horcoff I guess. To me he just isn't "getting it done" and he is one of our leaders. It's like he is just trying to be an offensive dynamo. And he's not. He just really needs to focus on his defensive game. So for annoying me tonight. Booooooooo!

But like I said... Good game Oilers! Let's keep this train rollin'. Woot Woot!!!

Beers and Jeers #11 (Dec 26/08 vs Vancouver Canucks)

BEERS

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Ales Hemsky

- He had the puck on a string tonight. He seemed really at home out on the ice. Horcoff finally converted on one of his passes. Good for Hemmer for getting 2 assists tonight. What more can I say about him? Have a beer Ales. Cheers!

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Dwayne Roloson

- He played a real solid game tonight. Made huge saves and kept the rebounds to a minimum. He almost flubbed the baseball swing he does and was lucky Vancouver didn't capitalize on it. He has been a nice story that has come out of the three headed monster saga. I think the team is starting to "trust" the goalie again. Good for you . Have a cold one Roli. Cheers!

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

Erik Cole

- I can't believe how hard he tries and gets robbed on a nightly basis. It seems like his moves just don't seem to work. I do love his work ethics though. He tries and tries and never gives up. Maybe someone should do a "little train the could" story about Cole? Hey? Anyways... Nice game tonight for #26. Cheers!

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

Honorable Mentions

- Lady Smid (Played well all night. Came up huge with the face first block at the end of the game. Good effort all around for Lady), Marc Pouliot (How does this guy keep scoring? Seriously. How are you doing it?), Sheldon Souray (5 shots and a nice goal. As always a good game from Shelly), Shawn "the one trick pony" Horcoff (hey you used your one trick. And it worked. Yay!)

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JEERS

Commercials

- Why so many commercials tonight? And the same four clips over and over. Isn't it bad enough that we have to watch all those Safeway commercials? Every 30 seconds... BOOM. Another commercial. So for annoying the crap out of me tonight. Booooooooooo!

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That's it folks! Good game tonight by the Oilers. Not much to really complain about. Except, I almost gave Staios and Gagner a Jeer tonight. But we won so I am letting it go. Improve for next game.

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Let's Go Oilers! Clap... Clap... Clap, Clap, Clap.

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See ya next game...

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Smokin' Ray

Beers and Jeers #10 (Dec 22/08 vs. Phoenix Coyotes)

Well let's just say it was nice to watch a game without the politics flowing in the background. Especially with it being a win. And believe me, the team really needed that win with the Christmas break coming up. Good for the Oilers.

On a side note: I would be pretty disappointed if Dan Carcillo was on my team and pulled some crap like that. That was a stupid penalty to get for yapping. I am sure Wayne will snapping on him after this is all over. He didn't look to impressed with him. Why keep sending him out? But now, back to the Oil...

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BEERS

Sheldon Souray

- He played another excellent game tonight. 28:25 of ice time. Wow. That's a lot of skating. He played his normal physical self. He was warrior tonight for the Oil. Then he pulls out the Souray bomb like no other and rips one past Tellqvist. What else can I say about him? So for the game winning goal... A beer. Cheers!

Andrew Cogliano

- For a guy that has played on the 2nd line, the 1st line and now the 3rd line... It just doesn't faze him. He plays the same no matter what. I honestly think that he has been one of the most consistent Oilers this year. Tonight he was again. The goal he scored is what Horcoff has been trying all year long. And he made it look easy. (on a side note: Hemsky is better on the LW side. Why does he refuse to play there 5 on 5?) Cogs better get used to drinking beer here at the Jambalaya with me. I am really starting to like the cut of this guys jib. Here's a BIG cold frosty mug for you. Cheers!

Strudwick and the 4th Line

- What a heck of a game by the 4th liners. Stortini with a big hit. Then goes on to score. His 1st of the year. Atta boy Storts! Then Carcillo hit Brodziak and who's there? His boy Strudwick. Crazy fight between those two. Decision... Strudwick, hands down. The 4th line even was able to get a shift at 5:00 left in the 3rd. MacT was loving those guys. Maybe it's just me, but don't you think Brodziak is more comfortable as a 4th line guy rather than a checking 3rd liner? Ready to split a 6 pack? Good Game guys. Cheers!

Honorable mention

- Ales Hemsky (Solid game again from Hemsky. He sure is making it look easy lately), Marc Pouliot (your making MacT look good), Dwayne Roloson (Not a great game, but a pretty good one), Erik Cole (He's just keeps trying his butt off every night)

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JEERS

The Entire Team

- Still can't play a full 60 minutes huh? That was a terrible 2nd period and we were lucky it was only 2 goals. The biggest down fall that the team has is taking too many penalties. It can literally cost you a game. It very well could have tonight. It's just a good thing Carcillo is a goof. And the team still has to look for that forward pass instead of passing back as a safe move. People like Staios fumble those kind of plays. So for not really looking to hot in the 2nd period. Boooooooooo!

Other than that not much to complain about. Like I said, not a bad game by the Oilers. I hope MacT leaves the lines alone because they are seeming to work. Except, I would rather have Nilsson back on the left with Gagner and Cole. Reddox just shouldn't be on a 2nd line. Besides... We could call the Nilsson/Gagner/Cole line the Desperation line.

Happy Holidays to all the Players, Coaching Staff and Management at the Edmonton Oilers. Enjoy your families and forget about us for a while. It's time to focus on the ones we love.

And a Happy Holidays to the readers. I hope all goes well with all of you in the New Year. 2009 will be good for all.

Smokin' Ray Burnt

Beers and Jeers #9 (Dec 19/08 vs Anaheim Ducks)

Well. Wasn't that a crazy penalty filled game? The game was so different from beginning to end that it was hard to tell if I was still watching the same game. The lines started out as predicted. Then as time went on MacT was putting the blender on low speed. Partly because of trying to get a spark and partly because of the PK and PP opportunities. Some guys didn't get to see much time on the ice. People like Horcoff were granted lots of time. So it was a hard game to evaluate. I am not really sure why Nilsson was benched. If anyone knows, please share it with us in the comments section because I would take a crappy Nilsson over a good Pouliot any day. But let's get on with it...

BEERS

Erik Cole

- See what happens when you mix a little Gagner and a side of Cole. I can almost bet my old 1979 Chevy pickup that those to will be playing together next game. And why not? Cole has looked good like he did tonight for the past few games. I am happy that he was able to contribute tonight. 31 shifts. 7 shots. 2 missed shots. 1 hit (I don't really believe the count of this stat ever) and 3 takeaways. He was solid the entire game. Cole is starting to become a regular in the Beers and Jeers. This guy is a jib cutter for sure. I guess he knows where the fridge is. Help yourself. Cheers!

Sam Gagner

- I am digging the beard that you are sporting now. It is looking like a team thing. I like those sort of things. Good team building. Sam was great tonight. Even if he didn't get a point to night I still would have given him a beer. His defensive game is really shaping up nicely. He takes hits and makes nice plays. He almost seems like his is another Hemmer, but there is a little difference there. His thinking is quicker. He sees the ice so well. And he was pretty good on the faceoffs tonight. That helps to get you out on the ice a little more. Great game Sam... Have a frosty. Cheers!

Sheldon Souray

- The big guy with the bomb did some damage tonight, even if he didn't score. He was dropping wingers like flies. It was nice to see him get some good shots off. 15 in total. 11 hit the net, 2 blocked and 2 missed. Good game all around for Mr. Souray. Beer? Of course you will. Cheers!

All The Stick Manufacturers

- Congratulations! I seen maybe two sticks broken all game. It was like the teams were back to using wood again. It's about time you guys figured out how to make them better. It's too bad that Stoll didn't use any of Souray's sticks last year. He may still be here. So to all the guys in suits that claim to do all the work on your product... Share a six pack. Cheers!

Honorable Mentions

- Dwayne Roloson. He was solid again tonight. Good on him.

- The Entire Team. Pretty good effort throughout the game. Let's do it 2 in a row. Go Oil!

- Lady Smid. Nice hit. It really changed the game. Bad timing penalty for Horcoff... Good hit from Smid to get that momentum back.

JEERS

Shawn Horcoff

- Maybe I just have a hate on for this guy. I really didn't think that he deserved 3rd star. Sure he played a lot. But he really wasn't noticeable. If you want to be a 1st line guy, you need to be noticed. So he played 28:05. That's a lot of ice time. 6:25 was played on the PP and 6:49 was played on the PK. All that ice time and he managed 4 shots. 2 that hit the net. 1 blocked and 1 missed. 4 shots. Really? With 28:05 of ice time? The 53 shots that hit the net and Horcoff took 2. Plus the penalty that he took in the 2nd was a real momentum swing for the Ducks. Good thing for the Smid hit to get it back. I don't know? Maybe I'm wrong here but either way it's my opinion. So hey Horc. Boooooooooooooo...

Marc-Antoine Pouliot

- I am not sure what kind of magic fairy dust you sprinkled on MacT to give you all that PP time. I'm sure it was the stong stuff. I really don't like him. I think tonight he looked shaky at times. It was like he would play hot potato with the puck. That really caused some dumb passes and chances for Anaheim. You can't keep making off the cuff passes and not expect to get burned sometimes. And how did you ever manage to sneak on the shoot out list? Gagner, Hemsky and Cole should have been the names. Pouliot. Pfftt... Booooooooo...

The Referee's

- Are you lips sore? Need some chap stick? I can't believe how many penalties there were. And why on earth is knocking a stick out of a guys hand a penalty? Seriously. Why? Why even hang on to your stick then. It should only be a call if you break the stick. (even then... the sticks break for no reason sometimes) It's a dumb rule anyways. Even though you were just doing your job. I have to do mine. Booooooooooo...

Well that's it. The Oiler's have a few days to wait until the next game. Until then, enjoy your weekend.

SRB

Beers and Jeers #6 (Dec 13/08 vs. Vancouver Canucks)

Very good game by the Oiler's. They are finally getting on track. I keep telling everyone to be patient and it looks like it's paying off. So here we go...

BEERS

Ales Hemsky

- This guy keeps on keeping on and is making himself look more and more like a star. He seemed a little stiff in the 1st period. But as the game went on his moves started to look a little more natural out there. He also had a beautiful goal tonight. (10th goal of the season) He made some great plays tonight too. All in all a pretty solid game tonight. So for another excellent game... (I'm turning you into an alcoholic) have another beer Hemmer. Cheers!

Erik Cole

- My man crush continues for this guy. I thought he played really well tonight. 2 shots, 5 hits and a takeaway. His speed is his forte' and he was using it tonight. The points will come. They will. It's the little things that he is doing right at the moment that count the most. (IMO) Great game Cole. Beer? Cheers!

Dwayne Roloson

- Shutout! Shutout! What more do I need to say? Atta a boy Roli. Maybe not a hard fought win but who cares? A win is a win and it must be nice that you can play a solid game and get rewarded with a shutout. The (old) man continues to amaze me. A big frosty Roli? Cheers!

Gilbert and Souray Pairing

- What an awesome pairing. They compliment each other like mustard and ketchup. Mmmmmm... they are good. And they make each other look better. That MacT must be a genius? You guys can share a 40oz Big Bear. Cheers Guys!

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JEERS

Marc Crawford

- Good god! Why on earth did CBC pick up this guy? Talk about over analyzing everything. He is kinda like Eklund from HockeyBuzz. If you keep spitting out crap eventually you will come out a winner. Loser! Pierre McGuire still has you beat though. However... you are a very close second. Sadly I used to love watching HNIC. Now I cringe on a Saturday. I could write about my displeasure for this man all night but I can't be bothered. So for being such a dip turd Marc Crawford... Boooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo...

To My Dad

- You know I love you, but since you are a Nucks fan and we won... Hahaha! Booo...

Hear Me Out #1

In this segment of Hear Me Out, I am going to talk trade talk. I am not one for this kinda thing but I have nothing else to do until Thursday. So here we go...

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Well there seems to be some really good players available right now. (according to sites like hockeybuzz, spectors, and the 4th period which most of the time they are wrong or full of it.) How can we not think about the possibilities out there? I don't think that any of the players listed here are really all that attainable by the Oilers but let's take a look anyways.

Marian Gaborik

- I would like to have this guy. Very fast and has a pretty wicked shot. His defensive is lacking but makes up for it with his offensive production. However he hasn't played 82 games since ... well never. He played 81 once in 2002/03. Is he worth the gamble? Not sure. He is also listed as a RW. Would he play left wing and not look out of place? Would he still be a floater?

Ilya Kovalchuk

- I would also like to have this guy. He does play left wing and shoots right. He's fast and agile. I think he could have magnificent chemistry with Hemsky. Again he isn't a very defensive minded person, but you know what? Most highly offensive people suck at coming back and helping out. So would I take a chance on this guy? Yes I would. Today.

Jay Bouwmeester

- I have already heard of talks that linked Mr. Bouwmeester to the Oilers. But do we really need to add another 4.8 million to the payroll? Imagine for a moment.. Souray, Visnovsky, Gilbert, Bouwmeester, Grebeshkov, Staios with Smid/Strudwick on reserve. I have to admit. Pretty nice defence corps. But can he survive in his hometown or crack like many others before him?

Jason Spezza

- Another injury prone guy. When he is on his game he is awesome. When he slumps he slumps. He is quick on his feet and has a pretty deadly shot. His face offs are not that bad either. All he could do is help this team. As long as he doesn't slack off for MacT.

Dany Heatley

- When the Heat is on, he's flying. At one point he was one of the best in the game. He is a natural left wing and could compliment Hemsky nicely. I am not sure I would take a chance on him. I don't think that he fully recovered mentally from the crash.

Maxim Afinogenov

- I used to think this guy was the cat's meow. But times change. I'd maybe give up Nilsson for him. But even then I think that is to steep. He still is fast which is Oiler style, but is his work ethics really all that good? And again he is a right winger who shoots left. Not really a fit for the Oilers top line.

Michael Nylander

- All I have to say is HAHAHAHAHA! That is karma for you. I am sure you all know the story behind him with the Oil. Don't want him, don't need him.

Mattias Ohlund

- While he is a quality defenceman, we really don't need him either. Pass.

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Now after all that. who would I take 1st?

Ilya Kovalchuk. He is what we need. Can we get him? Doubt it. (please prove me wrong)

So now I guess the real question is who do we give up?

Brodziak? Schremp? Garon? Roli? Nilsson? Moreau? Cole? Penner? Horcoff? Pouliot? Grebeshkov? Staios? Smid? Cogliano? Gagner? Hemsky? Souray? Visnovsky? Gilbert? Strudwick? Stortini? Brule? MacIntyre? Pisani? Deslauriers? Reddox? Some Kid in the Minors? Or #1 pick this year and next?

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What do you do?

The Oiler's Jambalaya #1 (Random Thoughts)

Even though we won last night....

That was a stinker for sure. Where is the effort? Does the team know that they were on HNIC? You realise that the whole nation watches you right? And that's how you want to play with your Mom watching? I think that would be embarrassing. One shot after the 1st. Very impressive. Ending the game at 43-17. Yeah! Whooo Hoooo! I swear someone better give Roli huge high five. And maybe some kissing on the feet. Ok. I feel better. But you have to bet that MacT is going to skate you guys hard this week. To top it off, it sucks no Oilers till Thursday. Now what?

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When I first was learning how to play hockey we were taught to play the man and not the puck. Right? This is a fairly easy concept, and it works when executed. So why does the team always go for the puck instead of laying the guy out? Most likely a 50/50 chance of getting burnt. But if you hit the guy then no one is burning anyone right? Like I said Easy concept and it works. Try it sometime.

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Since when are we playing rugby? Or football for that matter. There is such a thing as a forward pass. What you say? Really? We can do that? Generally the good teams pass in the forward direction. I mean really. Why give the other team any help by passing back to your own zone? Move it forward and go and get it. Look... I panic too in hockey sometimes. I get that. But dump it forward and go get it. Don't freak out and pass back to your defence. Then they freak out and next thing you know the other team has possession. Get it? Got It? Good!

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When is Shawn Horcoff going to get some more moves? His only arsenal is by going to the right side waiting for the one timer. Good play... but it can't be the only gun in the pocket. You need more. In the last few games I have seen changes to Penner's game and Hemmer's game. They have adjusted to look like 1st line stars. Sorry Horcoff. You have not. In fact, I prefer the 2 Million Horcoff. At least he tried his butt off. I want a refund on this guy.

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The emergence of Hemsky has been very exciting to a fan like me who has been waiting to see the real Hemsky. I think ladies and gentlemen, he is finally here. He seems really confidant this year and I think he really is trying to be a leader on the ice. He always said it but never really maintained any consistency for a whole season. I say so far, so good.

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I personally can not wait for Big Mac to come back. I hear he is learning to fight better from Rocky Thompson. How scary is that going to be? A better skater, better shape and a better fighter. You better run...

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I truly feel bad for Erik Cole. I do. I think what we have here is another Mike Peca situation. I don't think that MacT really knows how to use him yet. Or maybe he isn't listening to Cole. Either way, I don't think that the fans should be getting impatient with him. It took 60 or so games for Peca to be used accordingly. I expect the same with Cole. Then the Oiler fans will see why we got him in the first place. Mike Peca felt like the fans hated him by the middle of the season and his mind was made up to leave. I don't want the same with Cole. If you can remember... Peca was one of the best players for us in the playoff's. When... Not if, we make the playoff's. Erik Cole is going to be one of our best players too. Us as fans need to be patient. This is going to be a special year. Mark my words.

Until next time.

Smokin' Ray Burnt

Beers And Jeers #4 (Dec 6/08 vs. San Jose Sharks)

BEERS

Ales Hemsky

- The guy is a warrior. He plays like his contract is up this year. As the season goes on I feel like he is turning that corner to a real successful career. Finally he is what we all thought he was going to be. If it wasn't for Hemmer we would look really bad tonight. Beer for Hemmer. Cheers!

Dustin Penner

- Once again the big man doesn't disappoint. He is providing the screen that we have so desperately needed since Smyth left. Good job tonight big guy. 1 goal, 1 assist. Beer? Cheers!

Dwayne Roloson
- Another solid night between the pipes for Roli. Nice to have a goalie that we can rely on. A nice 41 save night. The ONLY reason why we made it to overtime. Have a nice cold beer Roli, you deserve it. Cheers!




JEERS



The Entire Team
- One shot after the 1st period. Are you kidding me? Good thing for Hemmer scoring. The second period was not that much better. We need that consistency that MacT has been talking about. 31 - 10 after the 2nd period. Terrible guys. Terrible. We were lucky to get that win. So for the piss poor effort once again. (43 - 17 shots) Pfffttt... Boooooooo...

The Third Line
- What is the point of having a third line if you don't notice them during the game? Clearly need a change with the 3rd and 4th lines. Brutal. Boooooooo...

The Fourth Line
- What a waste of a line. Booooooo...

Beers and Jeers #1 (Nov 30/08 vs. Dallas Stars)

Hello,

This is a segment that I like to call "Beers and Jeers". It's basically my 3 stars of the game we all just watched. (But not 3 stars) Due to problems with the puter last night I couldn't get this posted.


BEERS

Lubo Visnovsky
- This man came back from a crazy hard hit during the St Louis game to play in this game against the Stars. I thought he was gone for a week at least. I would still be there in the fetal position sucking my thumb. Good on him for playing today. Plus I heard from SN that he wanted to come back during the St. Louis game. Are you sure this guy isn't canadian? He went up in my books this weekend. Thank god he isn't another Pitkanen. And his actual game play today was great. Very fast and had his head up quite a bit. Wonder why? Anyways. Here is a beer for Lubo. Cheers.

Ales Hemsky
- I wish I had the talent that he has. He played another good game. I am finally relieved that he is starting to look like that point per game player that we drafted. He just looks comfortable out there. Beer Hemmer? Cheers

Sheldon Souray
- How is this guy not our current captain? He probably poops leadership in the morning while eating a big bowl of nasty flakes. He can't skate worth a crap but everything else he does turns to gold. He played a solid hard fought game tonight. Again. How about a case of beer for Shelly? Cheers great leader.

Kyle Brodziak
- Not much to say but nice goals. Lucky. But nice. Did you and MacT have this planned to make him look good? It worked.


JEERS

Shawn Horcoff
- Not much to jeer here other than he needs to go back to getting the puck out of your own end school. How many times in a row does he shoot it right at the guy coming down on him? I don't get it. Not just this game, but for at least 2 weeks. It drives me MAD. And my wife goes mad because she can't stand to hear me yell at the TV "Damn Horcoff!!!! Get IT OUT man..." A jeer for you Horc's. Boooooooo

Mac T
- Now I am the biggest MacT supporter there is. I like him. I think he's a good coach. The team plays well when they play by the system. But what the hell man? Where was Roli? I thought that if you won you kept playing? You made yourself look at little dumb yesterday. No wonder the goalies are confused. I would be to. But whatever? I'm not the coach. So here's your jeer. Boooooo.

The Whole team
- For the whole team that blew that game. Booooooooo


Smokin' Ray Burnt