Showing posts with label Oilers Jambalaya. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Oilers Jambalaya. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Official Jambalaya Predictions

Official Jambalaya Predictions

Well here we go folks. We are leaving it all out on the ice. These are our picks for this season.

Hope we are relatively close considering more moves may happen. Oh well... it's go time!





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Who's in the 2009-10 Stanley Cup Finals?
Smokin' Ray - Chicago vs. Washington
Paq Twinn - San Jose vs. Washington
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Last year on OilersNation.com we picked our Hero's and Goat's.

Here at OJ, we picked some for this season.

Smokin' Ray HERO Sam Gagner GOAT Ethan Moreau
Paq Twinn HERO Lubo Visnovsky GOAT Robert Nilsson
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There you have it folks. What/who are you picking?

Monday, September 7, 2009

Oilers Rookie Camp (We Were There)


Thanks to my main man, Paq Twinn, for being the eyes of Oilers Jambalaya this morning at the Oilers rookie camp.

No Pat Quinn on the ice this morning. Renney and Bucky are on the ice. Rob Daum is also there. Quinn, Tambo, Lowe and Katz are in the stands watching the practice. Lots of talking and laughing. I wonder if it was a Penner joke?

Practice: Good quick pace to the practice. Six goalies are at this session. Oilers new draft pick #30 Oliver Roy is one of the goalies on the ice.

Scrimmage time: Eberle looked real good. Real fast with great vision and scores a goal for Team White. #73, Burke Gallimore scored twice for Team Blue and made them look easy. Riley Nash also looked good. He plays smart and can hit like a train and take one too (he was rocked). The line of 73 62 87 was dynamite together as was the 64 23 14 line. They made some real slick passes. #50 Bryan Pitton is a huge goalie. He takes a lot of space away from the shooter.

Skaters:

63, ?
87, ?
62, Riley Nash
73, Burke Gallimore (2 Goals)
55, Jordan Bendfeld
53, Cameron Abney
66, Dalton Prout
23, Philippe Cornet
29, Johan Motin
14, Jordan Eberle (1 Goal)
76, ?
64 Milan Kytnar (1 Goal)
86, ?
65, ?
82, Jesse Dudas
59, Brett Breitkruez (1 Goal)
75, ?
48, Alex Plante
74, ?
72, ?

Goalies:

30, Olivier Roy
50, Bryan Pitton
52, ?
79, ?
70, ?
60, ?

Good practice and scrimage. Fast and high tempo. The Oilers have some good prospects in the system. The future looks good in Oil Country.

Team Blue wins 4-1 and fans win also. What a great event from the Edmonton Oilers. We needed a little hockey action. Thanks.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

I'm Back!!!


Well hello everyone. It's been a long and boring Oilers summer. Heatley and Comrie have taken up a lot of talk time in the Oilers Nation. I suppose Tambo as well (for not doing much). I don't know if we can take much more of this type of talk. It does nothing but frustrate the crap out of people waiting for something to get done. But hey... we now have Khabibulin. That's a start right? Right? Pfft.


So now the days of waiting for someone to come to Oilerland is almost over. Training camp starts soon and it couldn't come quicker. I don't know about you guys, but I am excited for this season. Even with no real significant changes, I'm excited (read: Homer).


Since the Oilers don't want to change, I will. Over the next few months you will see some changes around here. No worries. Not that much change. Just enough to make it better for Oiler Jambalaya fans and this site.


What are they Smokin' Ray? Can't say yet. But have no fear... Beers & Jeers are almost here.


This site is now open once again. Thanks for coming back after a long summer.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Oilers Jambalaya #4 (Random Thoughts)


Wow!

A lot has changed in the last week or so. MacT is gone. Tambo steps up. Rumors start swirling. Who's leaving next? Oilers have 10th pick overall at this years NHL draft.

Absolute crazy I tell you.

Everyone is talking about who is going to be the next coach here in Oil Country. At this point of the season, who cares? There is a lot of months before the next season starts and the playoffs are just starting. Why are we getting all worked up about nothing? I don't know? Do you?

All I do know... I DON'T WANT MIKE CRAWFORD! Oops. Did I screw up your name Marc? No big deal right? I'll get Alex Hemsky to sign a shirt for you to make up for it. Can you imagine what Hemmer would do if he taps him on the pads and says, "Ok Alex. Your turn." And Hemmer looks at him and cracks him over the head with his stick. "Help me Rolofson", Crawford yells as Roli turns his back and skates away. OMG! That could be terrible for the team. BBMT (Bring Back MacT) jk. Calm down.

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I guess the next "big thing" for the Oilers is the 2009 NHL Draft. The Oilers pick 10th this year for the first time ever. If we picked up Hemsky at 13th, then we should be able to find a guy that is decent. *fingers crossed* I am a believer of picking the best available player for the first two rounds anyways. After that, whatever. Go random. Pick with your gut. There just may be a Zetterberg out there for us.

Here is a look at the top 15 players available from TSN. Anyone of these kids could be an Oiler by next year. Who do you like the best? Don't say Tavares either.

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If the Oilers are going to move forward then I suppose we look at leadership. I am a strong believer that we also need a change in out Captain department. Moreau has done a decent job but this team needs a new direction. Now all season I have said how I would like to see Souray as our C. I still do feel that way, but I have been thinking about this a lot lately. Why not be like Chicago and name Gagner the Captain? It seems to be working for them and if anything we can look at Vancouver and Detroit as examples. They are teams that made a young guy a Captain and built around them for years. Yzerman and Linden. Why not the Oilers? Clearly, Gagner was the one that was most bothered by not making the playoffs. (Souray as well as he wasn't available for comment after the last day.) Give Gagner a shot with the C. I won't make us worse. NNC.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Beers and Jeers #46 (Mar 19/09 vs. Colorado Avalanche)


Well folks, I am very excited for this game. I am hoping for a 2 point night. Let's go Oilers!


As far as I have heard (lately) MacT is going with the same line's as last game. I really thought that Stortini would draw in for Reddox. It only makes sense. Right? Anyone? The Avs will play Laperriere so who do we have?


Why is it that MacT always rolls with the 4th line after an Oiler goal? The other team is pissed and want nothing more than to score on us and we send out the 4th line? Really? Oh well...


Let's Go Oilers!


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1st Period

The man that has been in my bad books scores the 1st goal of the game. Yeah! 1-0 Oilers. (Moreau from Brodziak and Penner at 4:02) Good start by Chopper. We needed that. But the Avs storm back and score one of their own against the Oilers 1st line. Damn! 1-1 Tie Game. Ryan Smyth takes a penalty and Horcoff pots one in the net. Yeah! 2-1 Oilers. (Horcoff from O'Sullivan and Gilbert at 9:38) Alright. A PP goal. I quite like that new 2nd PP unit of 10/19/12/21/77. Great period so far by the Oilers. The period ends with the Oilers out shooting the Avs 12-7. Yeah!!!

2nd Period

The 2nd started out looking good for the Oilers but they couldn't really muster much. Colorado was winning this period in the 1st half. But the Oilers started to maintain some momentum and started to really get going. All the lines look good tonight except for Strudwick/Smid. Struds may be tired. Maybe Peckham should have been given a chance. Out of nowhere Pisani pops one in the net. Yeah! 3-1 Oilers. (Pisani from Reddox and Gilbert at 14:35) Way to go boys. A minute later Gagner scores. YEAH!!! 4-1 Oilers. (Gagner from Nilsson and Kotalik at 15:39) *That was Ales Kotalik's 1st point as an Oiler* Holy crap. So this is what it feels like to be on the other side of the fence. Yeah! You can see the team relax after that goal. That period started out not looking good but ended up fantastic. 16-11 were the shots after the 2nd in favor of the Oilers.

3rd Period

All we have to do is hold them off and it's an easy 2 points. Well the Kotalik/Gagner show is in full swing in the 3rd as well. Kotalik scores. Yeah!!! 5-1 Oilers. (Kotalik from Gagner and Nilsson at 9:22) The flood gates are open now. With one of the Avs players in the box, the Oilers have another PP. Gagner scores now. Yeah!!! 6-1 Oilers. (Gagner from Kotalik and Souray at 12:31) This game is all Oilers now. I feel bad for the Avalanche fans because we have been there. Lots. With just under 5 minutes to go, Souray fires a bomb and scores. Yeah! 7-1 Oilers. (Souray from Staios and Penner at 16:43) He didn't even look like he was trying. But it went in anyways. Holy crap. Gagner scores a hat trick. Alright! Yeah! 8-1 Oilers. (Gagner from Nilsson and Kotalik at 17:20) Well that was fun to see all the goals. All the lines looked good. It was nice to be happy. :)



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Tonight's Starting Lines

O'Sullivan Horcoff Hemsky (This wasn't the Oilers best line. It wasn't the worst either. O'Sullivan wasn't quite as sharp as last game but still looked good with Hemsky. Horcoff was ok. 3 shots and 2 giveaways. Shots good. Giveaways bad. Hemsky wasn't all that flashy either. But he needs to be the #1 guy.)
Nilsson Gagner Kotalik (This line was on fire. They were our #1 line tonight. Kotalik and Gagner have really seemed to hit it off. Nilsson was ok. He really didn't have many mistakes and played a simple game. It worked for him as he earned 3 assists. Gagner scores a hat trick and gets an assist. It really seems to me that he is going to take Horcoff's spot sooner than later as the #1 center. Kotalik had a goal and 3 assists. Nice way to get your 1st points as an Oiler. He seemed to match the style that Gagner plays. I hope it works out for the both of them.)

Reddox Cogliano Pisani (They played an ok game. It appeared to me that MacT was using them more as a 4th line rather than a 3rd line. Reddox was ok. He gets one assist and registers nothing on the stat sheet. Is that even possible after playing 13:18? Cogliano was ok. He did what he could with only playing 10:49. He seemed to be the MacT whipping boy tonight. Not sure it was deserved. Pisani scores and takes 2 shots. Glad to see him score.)

Moreau Brodziak Penner (I actually like this line. I wish it was the 3rd line. Penner played very good. He seemed like he wanted to do something out there. He showed some will out there. That was nice to see. Brodziak played another Brodz type game. He was good at what he does. Moreau has been in my bad books for a whle. But he played a real good game tonight. He scores a huge goal to start the game off. He plays a whole game without doing something dumb. He played like we all expect him to play every game. Good.)

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FINAL SCORE

Edmonton Oilers - 8
Colorado Avalanche -1
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BEERS

Sam Gagner - The little dude had a 4 point night. He played like a 1st line center. He played like he wants to be in the playoffs. In my books that is worth a beer. Enjoy a frosty Gags. Cheers!

Ales Kotalik - Tonight he played like he belonged here. He showed some oomph. His vision for Gags was sick. Cole who??? JK Great game tonight Kotalik. Enjoy your 1st OJ Beer. Cheers!

Robert Nilsson - He rode the train we call Gagner and was able to play smart hockey. His passing was on the money and his plays were good. A Bud for Bobby? Cheers!

Honorable Mention - Dustin Penner (I liked his game. He played like a big guy. What? He is?), Ethan Moreau (Chopper was able to play a smart game as well. He scores a huge goal in the 1st.), Sheldon Souray (Our un-officail captain was solid. A goal and an assist and 3 takeaways.) Denis Grebeshkov (The man was good again. 24:41 of ice time to lead the Oilers.)

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JEERS

There are none. We won 8-1.

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That was a fun game to watch. I was surprised to see an outcome like that. Like I said, it is nice to be on the other side of the fence. 8-1 Yeah!!!

See you all tomorow when the Oilers take on the Chicago Blackhawks on Oilers PPV.

Let's Go Oilers!

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Beers and Jeers #38 (Feb 26/09 vs. Columbus Blue Jackets)


Hello everyone. Today is a good day for hockey. ***There was something in the air that night. The stars were bright, fernando*** Pisani is back. I took a while but he's playing tonight. Grebeshkov will be back most likely next game. Erik Cole is still an Oiler. And the Oilers are sitting in 9th. Life is looking better.

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Ryan Whitney was traded to the Ducks today for Ryan Kunitz and a prospect. So that officially takes Whitney off the market. I thought that he was going to be an Oiler Eklund? So much for him being right. :)


And another trade was made today. Montreal acquires Doug Janik and Dallas receives Steve Begin. Ahh... who cares right?


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A lot of people sure think that the sky is falling... But is it really? I don't think so. I think that this team is in good shape. The Oilers are sitting in 9th. Tied with 3 other teams. A win here moves us up. A loss won't help the cause. I know. Pretty obvious observation. But the sky is not falling. I hear, "Gagner is not an NHLer and never will be", "Cole sucks", Hemsky doesn't lace his skates right", "Penner eats too many cheeseburgers", "Schremp for Mayor of E-Town". it is starting to drive people mental. If Tambo could just make a deal, it may quiet some people for awhile. Or not. I think mostly people like to hear themselves bitch and complain and see if they can get a rise out of someone. Most of the time it's laughable.


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1st Period


In the 1st minute and a half, Boll runs into Roli. (unbelievably Gilbert sees it, watches it, and forgets about it. Boooooooo!) Hopefully Roli plays mad for the rest of the game. And hopefully someone beats the crap out of Boll tonight or he's going to be a pest all game. Penalty for Stortini at 2:34. *sigh* But Rick Nash takes a penalty at 3:33 to make it 4 on 4 for a bit. Neither team does much other than one post hit by the BJ's. (don't be gross people, it means Blue Jackets) Seven minutes into this game, and it's kinda slow to get started. No real good opportunities for either team yet. (BJ's just took their first shot) Nothing worth screaming at anyways. However at 10:50, Torres and Strudwick drop the gloves. Torres starts swinging but Struds isn't ready yet. Boom, Boom, Boom. Strudwick fires some rabbit punches and takes down Torres. Quick but good fight. At 13:49, Boll takes an intentional shot at Roli after the whistle and infuriates Roli. Souray gives him a good chop and Roli is on his way out to kick his ass. But only Boll gets the penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct. And rightfully so. So with the PP the Oilers can't do anything and the crowd let's then know that that is not cool and they get a nice boooooo! The 1st line seems to be the most productive out of all the Oiler lines so far. Just as the seconds were dying, Rick Nash almost scores but Roli comes up HUGE. Yeah... he's pissed off. Thanks Boll. 0-0 Tie Game.


2nd Period


Let's hope the fun factor of this game increases. The 1st was kind of lame. This period doesn't really start out any better. Peckham takes a penalty at 4:22. But the Jackets can't score on Roli. The BJ's are looking like they want to win this game. They have some drive. The Oilers don't. Not much happens until Horcoff takes a penalty at 11:20. Again the BJ's can't score on Roli. I can't believe that here I am, watching the team I love, and I'm bored. Good lord! Just as the period is winding down, Ethan Moreau takes the Oilers 3rd Hooking penalty of the game. But he's lucky as Commodore goes to the box for holding his stick. This was a bad period by the Oilers. They were out played, out shot, out everything. Brutal. Booooooooooo! The highlight other than Roli was Souray as the Oiler shot leader with 4 after two periods. 0-0 Tie Game.


3rd Period


Let's hope the 3rd is somewhat better. Well Souray nails one of the BJ's early in the period. Shortly after that, Nash nails the post and almost makes it a 1-0 game. Thanks Mr. Post. Steve Staios tries to rally the troops with a scuffle after the whistle with Peckham in there as well. Come on Oilers! The momentum is swinging our way now. Ahhhh. Torres scores at 7:45. 1-0 Blue Jackets. Well wouldn't you know it. The Boo Birds are out in full force now (and at my house). They were lingering all game. But damn rights. Those people at that arena deserve to boo them players. They are playing like crap. For the love of god! Moreau takes yet another hooking penalty. Another bad timing penalty. How many more does this guy need to take before something changes? Take that C off of him and give to someone who would represent it better. Like Souray. "LEADERSHIP IS ACTION... NOT POSITION" I live by that rule. If you can't be like that then you have no business being the captain. Back to the game. Cole makes a fancy drop pass to Staios. But Staios isn't there. Huge giveaway. Nash gets a breakaway, but once again Roli is there to save the Oilers ass. That by the way was Roli's 30th save of the game. So there is now 3:00 minutes left and I'm looking for a goal scoring hero. The fans are looking for a hero. Do we have one? Anyone? lol. MacT puts out Reddox. What is he doing out there? Just as time is winding down, MacT pulls the goalie and has (89, 12, 34, 18, 44, 77) out for the final minute. Really? Moreau? Pisani? But Pisani fires off one last blast but can't score. The Blue Jackets win! *shakes head* What a joke.


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Tonight's Starting Lines


Penner Horcoff Hemsky (Terrible. Started good. Ended bad.)


Nilsson Gagner Cole (Terrible. They were on for the BJ goal.)


Moreau Cogliano Pisani (Terrible and slow. Pisani was winded after the 1st.)


Reddox Brodziak Stortini (Didn't get much chance to be terrible)


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FINAL SCORE


Columbus Blue Jackets - 1

Edmonton Oilers - 0


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BEERS

Dwayne Roloson - Gramps was a rock tonight. He did everything he could to give the Oilers a fighting chance to win this game. He knew that this was important. He knew he had to show up and lead this team. (maybe Roli needs the C?) Thank god for Boll pissing him off because we all know when Roli is mad... He's at his best. For another excellent game and for being left to hang out and dry again. Have a few frosty beers. You deserve it! Cheers!


Ladislav Smid - He has really impressed me since the injuries. He has an edge that he plays with. He seems to really play a solid game. He's not the same guy from last year. He played 20:22 and had 4 hits. He also managed to block 3 shots. For a pretty fantastic game, enjoy a brewski Smid. Cheers!


For The Fans in the Oiler Nation - God knows we all need a beer after that. (maybe even two) That was terrible. Cold one anyone? Ok. *holds up beer* "To something better." Cheers!


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JEERS


The Amount of Giveaways - How can we expect to win games with 26 giveaway's? I don't think to many. Tom Gilbert and Ethan Moreau were the worst of the bunch. Although Cole's were bad timming ones. Bottom line... that is BS! 26 *shakes head* Boooooooooo!


Lack of Shots - 32 (CLB) to 19 (EDM) was the final shot total. Out of those 19 shots, how many were actual chances? Not many I would suspect. No shots and a ton of giveaway's. If you guys are going to play like that... do it on the road so you don't waste the ticket holders money. Booooooooo!


Ethan Moreau - I don't really know what else I can say about him. I can't stand him anymore. His bad plays keep hurting this team over and over again. He really has no positives. The fans may be sick of Craig MacTavish... But I'm sick of Ethan Moreau. You need to go. Booooooooo! (In fact I am starting my own FMNF campaign. The NNC campaign. What does it mean? Need New Captain.)


The Entire Team - For one, Roli gets hit again and no one does a thing. Gilbert looked at it and then turns his head and skates away. Wow! Freaking pansy. For two, MacT says you play if you can give more than you give up. We gave up way more this game. No wonder Reddox was out there and NOT Hemsky in the final minutes. What a craptacular game. Thanks for the memories... Boooooooooo!


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That was a sad and pathentic game. I sure hope that the other Oiler squad shows up on Saturday. If not then... then... well I don't know. I don't really want to find out. Oh. And it's against the Wild. I will expect Big Mac to draw back in. See you all then.

Monday, February 23, 2009

The Water Cooler #3 (Smyth/Souray/Cole/Lecavalier/Prucha)


*pours water into coffee cup* Oh... hello there. Welcome to the Water Cooler. I have some gossip today regarding some players. "Like what?", you say. Ok. Have a water and read on.


While it has been slow on the trade front (trades and news), the deadline is fast approaching. Is this going to be a big year for trades? I don't think so. The GM's now seem to have these damn cap problems of the modern era. Too many high salaries. Geez... who would have thought that the GM's would screw themselves again (pre lockout)? Maybe by the 3rd time around they will figure out that the large contracts are just plain silly. It's their own fault though. No one else to blame but themselves.


So with all the hype and hoopla that surrounds the TDL... don't expect much to happen. But it's still exciting as always. I always get fired up. Then I get dissapointed. What will happen this year?


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On the 17th of February, Eklund from Hockeybuzz.com reports (CLICK HERE) that Petr Prucha may be heading to Edmonton. No word on who would go the other way. (of course!) And I quote, "I am told that Prucha to Pittsburgh or Edmonton" Take it for what it's worth... mostly bull plop IMO.


Also on that same page, Eklund talks about how Vinnie Lecavalier maybe coming to Edmonton. And I quote, "Don't believe a word from anyone who says Vinny is not available. The Lightning aren't pushing the agenda to move him, but they have let it be known 100% clearly that the door is very open and pretty much exactly what the cost of entry is. I have been around enough trade deadlines to know how crazy people get. I would put it at 80-90% that Vinny is gone bny March 4th. The deals will be too big to look away from. The Lightning could be completely set up for years to come. And whenever the Rangers and Canadiens are involved you can be assured that the Leafs, Canucks, Flames, Oilers, and Flyers will have discussions as well. This is a chance of a lifetime for those teams and a golden opportunity for a new look Lightning team to emerge."


I guess we shall see if and where he goes. Not here...


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Here we have Ryan Smyth possibly returning to the Oilers. Eklund (CLICK HERE) claims this on February 19th. And I quote, " The Calgary Flames are an interesting possible landing spot for Ryan Smyth, and where there is smoke ther may just really be fire. However, don't rule out completely a return to Edmonton I am told for Smyth." I would love it, but I don't see it actually happening. Too bad.


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Now the most craziest one I have heard from Eklund. It came on the 21st of February. Sheldon Souray to the New Jersey Devils. (CLICK HERE) And I quote, "The Devils first choice is definitely trying to grab BOTH Neidermayers, they like Morris, but also like Leopold and Horton. They also would love to grab Souray out of Edmonton for a major league prospect and a roster player." I really don't see that ever happening. Ever. Come on Eklund. Get real!


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As far as Erik Cole rumours go... They are everywhere. It seems like if you keep on spitting names and teams around that eventually someone will claim to be right. He is linked to Carolina, Boston, Pittsburgh, Toronto, Washington. So really it's anyone's guess on where he goes. It's more of a question on who we will get in return.


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Well folks that is all that I have found. And here comes the boss so we better not get caught standing around the water cooler. Maybe see you next time at coffee break. Cya...

Sunday, February 15, 2009

The Water Cooler #2 (Cole/Smyth/Whitney/Guerin/Hemsky/Jay Bo)


**Remember, these are rumors. Nothing more. Do not believe any of this. This is for entertainment purposes only. I would seriously be shocked if any of this becomes true.**

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*REAL* Just to start off it's being reported by TSN that the Penguins have fired their coach. Michel Therrien has been replaced by interim coach Dan Bylsma the farm team coach. The Penguins have a 27-25-5 record this season and are sitting five points out of the playoffs.

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Here from Hockeybuzz we have Erik Cole going to Pittsburgh for (D) Ryan Whitney. I actually think that this is a fair deal if done as one for one. We will see where this goes.

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This what I found at Spector's Hockey. And I quote "Jay Bouwmeester and would likely get a roster player, prospect and first round pick. The Flyers, Blackhawks, Oilers, Rangers and Devils are rumored to be interested..." Duh!!! Thanks for the tip Spector.

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Here is a Hockey Leaks Feb 13/09 rumor statement. And I quote, "The Oilers are apparently willing to include Hemsky in a deal to bring in Bouwmeester." You have got to be kidding guy that wrote this. You seriously believe this? Hemsky? Really? *shakes head* If they balked at giving up Cogs or Gags then why Hemmer?

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Now there is no mention of the Oilers in this link, but I think the Oilers should look at bringing #94 home. He worked well with Hemsky and Horcoff. Just a thought. I would do it. But it is up to Ryan Smyth as he has a NTC. Last I heard, he wasn't keen on coming back. But what do I know?

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Also from 4th period, It appears that the Oilers have shown interest for the Ottawa Senators d man, Filip Kuba. I'm not sure if he is what we need. I'm hoping for a North American player.

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A few days ago I heard about Bill Guerin maybe coming back to Edmonton from Hockeybuzz. And I quote, "*With Doug Weight out for six weeks, one source has informed me that the Oilers may be reaching into their past for veteran leadership to the OTHER Islanders American star, Billy Guerin." Cool. I liked him. But doesn't he play RW? And don't we need a LW? Doesn't make sense. So don't count on it.

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Well that's all I have found for now. TSN has a site that is ready for the Trade Deadline. It's not bad. March 4th is coming quick. Who do you want?

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

The Head Scratcher #1 (Head Coach Fired)


Here is the Head Scratcher of the day. The Oilers fired the head coach. CLICK HERE Ahhh... You were thinking MacT. Me too. But it's not.


Jeff Truitt was a decent coach. He did well with the Kelowna Rockets. Won a Championship. But after one season with the Springfield Falcons, the Oilers are going to move in a new direction. Something is telling me that that was the wrong guy to be fired. Sure the Falcons are stinking it up down there, but so is the parent club up here. And yet they fire the minor league coach? Yeah... A real Head Scratcher!

Sunday, February 8, 2009

The Blame Game #2


Well we wake up after a hard night of drinking. (we all did it after that game) Who's on at 10:30 this morning? Detroit is playing in Pittsburgh. So we better not hear any excuses after this game about playing early twice in a row. Detroit is doing it as well... only earlier.


So after another loss like that, questions need to be answered. And not the usual answers that MacT likes to dish out. Be honest here. Tell us that you panicked. Tell us that the game was out of control so quick that you had no idea how to react. Tell us that you screwed up. Again. My good buddy Whitey writes to me last night, "I'm really starting to think a change of coach is the best thing for the Oilers, 9 years is too long. Time for a new voice/message." Seriously... How can I argue with that anymore? In the past I have. I've fought it to the death. But my fight is getting smaller. I just maybe calling over to JSBM and have them swing by with the old firemactbandwagon to pick me up. I may be going on a wagon ride.


It's not just MacT though. Even Moreau beats around the bush. Just say "I sucked as a Captain yesterday and I didn't play to my full potential." Don't tell us it's a process. We don't want to hear that. Time is running out. A process my ass! Win. Or at least try to win. Play hard. Check hard. Shoot hard. Try and start there. Pfft... a process. *shakes head* I want a NEW captain. We deserve a new captain.


To me I have the most problem with the guys up top. Tambellini and Lowe. I don't know who really has the authority to make a trade. And let's be honest... I don't care. But when Garon was traded for Stone and Sabourin, Tambo said that Sabourin was only temporary. He said that he will be moved. Where is this deal? Where is any deal? Is there no one to "dance" with? The Oilers have been linked to Bouwmeester and Spezza and Lecavalier and nothing has been done. Why? Jason Gregor made a great list over at OilersNation.com. These are good candidates for Tambo or Lowe to act on. What's the deal with Cole? Is he the next Sykora? Likes it here but the team is moving in a different direction? Why not pick up Doug Weight? What's the hold up?


Lots of questions... not many answers. At this point we need to blame all of the organization. Management, Coaches and the Players. The Oilers are in 9th as of this writing and all is not bad. It just needs to be better. It can be better. Minnesota in 1/2 hour. GAME DAY!!!

Monday, February 2, 2009

If I was the Owner/GM/Coach I would... #2


Well with all the passion for the Oilers at full steam ahead over at the OilersNation , I have decided to unfurl another Owner/GM/Coach. These are my idea's.


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OWNER


If I was the owner of the Edmonton Oilers right now I would be on damage control. I would be doing what ever necessary to keep the fans at bay. To keep them happy. Hmmmm... Smoke and mirrors? That works... sort of. The owner needs to step out and be there for the fans. He needs to be accessible. I want to see him at the games. Be visible. Mr Katz came in with a bang and since then... nothing. nothing. We need more Katz. Was he even real?


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GENERAL MANAGER


Let me figure this out. What exactly does a GM do with his time? Can't golf, it's winter still. No day in the park with family, too cold. Can't make any trades. What? I can? No kidding?


Ahhh... the almighty trade. Why not huh? The team is lacking in a few area's. And a trade would appease the fans. Me included.


#1 - A true 1st line center. Not Horcoff. Someone better. There has been a few rumors about Jason Spezza. I like him. I think he could compliment Hemsky quite a bit. Are the Oilers serious about this guy? Ok then. I'll take Doug Weight.


#2 - A true 3rd line. Maybe with Pisani coming back this may be solved. But in order for this team to be serious about winning the cup, the Oilers need a 100% all the time checking line. Moreau Someone? Pisani Maybe Cogs would be a good center with these two?


#3 - A better 1st line LW. Penner stinks. I would bite the bullet and put him on waivers and send him to Springfield for the rest of the year. No one would take him. That would teach not only Penner a lesson, but the entire team would learn a lesson. Play hard or your gone. That's my motto. Anyways. We need a new LW. I like Kovalchuk. I know... never happen. But that is who I want.


The Garon trade was good. But it wasn't enough. The Nation needs more. Please Tambellini... do something. What happened to the other deal for Sabourin?


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COACH


With Gagner coming back, the lines need some adjusting.


Nilsson Horcoff Hemsky

Cogliano Gagner Cole

Moreau Brodziak Potulny

Big Mac/Stortini/Reddox/Penner/Whoever


Honestly, I would try Big Mac on the 1st line pp. All he needs to do is screen the goalies.


1st line - Big Mac Horcoff Hemsky


2nd line - Cogs Gagner Cole


I think MacT needs go get serious soon. People are starting to notice your mistakes. Save yourself!

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Oilers Jambalaya #3 (Random Thoughts)


Hello everybody. The All Star weekend is in full swing and lame as usual. Well, ok... only parts of it was lame. I just have a hard time seeing this weekend as a "showcase" weekend for the NHL. This (skills competition and game) is not really what the NHL is about. I get confused when I watch this stuff. Like why would you tell the public that the goalie that you brought in for the Breakaway Challenge was told "not to try"? That's just weird. I did however enjoy the final elimination shootout. And who wins that? The guy I said shouldn't be there instead of Hemsky. But what do I know right? The Hardest Shot was a good one. It's to bad Souray didn't connect like he can. But there is always next year.


Andrew Cogliano was the NHL fastest skater. Since when did they let the YoungStars participate in the Skills? I don't remember that from last year but I may be wrong here. Too bad Erik Cole couldn't have participated. But good job Cogs. You fastest skater you!


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CBC really blew it when they decided to not re new the HNIC song. Sure the guy that won the contest was from Edmonton but, the song sucks. The only "hook" of the song is the bag pipe intro. But it is soooo quiet you barely hear it. Why not Stompin' Tom? That really would have been better. And did you notice that the 5 finalists were songs that were keyboard type songs. Think of all the people that did all that hard work to write, record and release songs (Rap/Rock/Alternative/Electronica) that CBC new fully well that they were looking for a "copy" version of the old song. Thanks for wasting peoples time CBC. Why not just say that that is what you were looking for? Get a new song for next year please!


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Why is there not a cut off date for free agent signings? I mean really... Forsberg again? Neidermayer last year. Kind of Sundin this year. I think the NHL needs to change something here. This is getting ridiculus.


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All this complaining about fighting in the game is starting to bug me. This isn't the NBA. We don't hug our "Homeys" after a game. There is no "Keep it real yo!".


No, the NHL is not like other sports. We do not need to compare this great unique sport to a pile of oranges. We fight to protect ourselves. We fight to spark our team. We fight because sometimes that's out job. (well not Me.) The NHL is different and that is a good thing. I see more damage to guys on icings. That my friends is the real problem. Not fighting.


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My final question today...


Why are the Oilers locker room stalls not old guy/young guy/old guy/young guy? That may have some chemistry building mojo going on? I don't know. Just wondering.


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Next Oiler game - Jan 27/09. That's Tuesday.

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Beers and Jeers #13 (Dec 30/08 vs Ottawa Senators)


Well. That game was a so-so match. Kinda fun at times. Kinda sad at times. The outcome was a little predictable. I mean come on... Why put in Garon? (didn't work). What? Reddox as a 1st line RW? (it worked/sort of) I sure hope that things look a little better against the Flames.


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BEERS


Shawn Horcoff

- Yes you are reading this correct. He played pretty good last night. He actually looked like the old Horcoff. Maybe playing without Hemsky was a good thing for him and Penner. Horcoff was all over the ice tonight. Amazing. That guy was worth the $$$ tonight. However, I don't know if he can continue that when Hemmer comes back. But for the good game tonight. Have a cold one Horcoff. Cheers!


Erik Cole

- I may get slack for this one but I thought that Cole was pretty good. He had lots of shots and a 4 hits. He played his role and I think it is really starting to pay off for the guy. Since he didn't really produce tonight. Have a half of beer. Cheers!


Honorable Mention

- Bobby Nilsson (had 3 hits), Liam Reddox (he was the poor man's Hemsky, although he was on the ice for just about every goal. For us and them)


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JEERS


The Entire Team

- Geez you guys... Just when the train was rolling. And the bed goes to poop. Sad really. I was actually thinking that we were going to keep this going. I guess I was wrong. So for losing this game... Booooooooo!


Mathieu Garon

- My opinion was that he looked bad tonight. He made a spectacular save and then the next minute gets burned. Terrible. I can't believe this was the same guy from last year. Sorry man... Boooooooooo!


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Calgary on New Years. Better win. Nuff said.

Friday, December 19, 2008

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

Monday, December 15, 2008

"What Would _______ Do?"




Well I was thinking about doing some Christmas shopping on Sunday and decided to head to the local Wally Mart. This is my daughter's 1st Xmas and I can't help but keep buying her stuff. She's so damn cute. So, I start walking in (with my list of course) and automatically head to the toy section. I used to love this section when I was a kid. Mom and dad would say "meet us at "whatever" time. I'd say "yeah" and I would be gone. I still feel like a weirdo standing there checking out the cabbage patch kids. I feel like I need to prove I have a kid in order to be in the girl section. People are rude for the most part. So I get a lot of stares and whispers.

I look at my list and the spin and dance Uniqua from the Backyardigans is #1. I can see it. There is only one left and I'm 50 feet away. The place is swarming with people. Damn. I need it.

Now I am not all that religious (unless the Oiler's is considered a religion) now a days but I couldn't help but think... People like to live thier lives with the whole "What Would Jesus Do?" So why not the Oiler's right?

"So" I thought. What Would Hemsky Do? Good plan. So I started out doing a fast jog, then I started really picking up speed. WATCH OUT! I jump to the left. Oh no! Spin-a-rama to the right. Almost there. One more juke to the left and back to the right and I'm there...

Right on. It worked. Just as I start to catch my breath, this dude in a suit starts to cut in front of me and starts grabbing for the toy. No way there tie wearing dude. Not today.

So? I quickly thought...

What Would MacTavish Do? I flashed a grin and without a blink I grabbed a hold of the dude's tie and ripped it right off. He stood there speechless as I grabbed the toy and walked quickly away. Take that Harvey the Hound #2

Yeah! (self high 5)

Well now I am starting to feel pretty good about myself. What's next on the list? Baby Einstein Kaleidoscope. Cool toy. Lights up and plays music. Easy to learn colors type of toy. Well... There was two left. Two. Now anyone knows that you never want the front toy because everyone and their dog has played with it already. So you want the one that is way in the back. Right? Well just as I start walking to get it and this lady and her 7 year old kid were heading that way.

Quick think man....

What Would Cole Do? I started running and just as the two of us were reaching "the toy", I pretend to slip on some water and I deliver the best Erik Cole open ice hit on her. BAM! She goes flying to the floor. Yes!!!! I got it. The back one. I help her off her kid and apologize for slipping and make some joke about how crappy the employees are here and I make off laughing under my breath. Sucker.

Now I have one more thing on the list and so far no luck. Oh wait. Is that the new IgglePiggle doll/figurine? It is. Hmmmm.... My girl is going to love that.
What Would Visnovsky Do? I know. He's good at getting in and getting out quick. So I kick it into high gear and do a run by. Successful! I have all three presents that I wanted to get for my princess. Living large and in charge.
So I go heading off to the check out till. Long lines of course. It's Christmas.

As I am waiting in line that jack ass Mr. No Tie guy from the Uniqua episode is giving me the eye. "Screw him", I say. I'm leaving. What could be the harm now right?
So What Would Souray Do? So I gave him that look. You know the look. The "I'm gonna rip some poop up on you" look. Yeah that's right. I'm bad ass. (I'm actually scared but you can't show him that) I finish paying and get my cash back and I start getting ready for the full on winter blast that I am sooooo lucky to receive at this time of year. And here is that hole of a butt, Mr. Suit with no tie guy again.
"Hey", he yells at me. "I needed that toy for my kid."
"So did I" I say back.
"Are you getting smart with me?" he growls.
"Yes I am", I reply.
He keeps getting closer to me. Sure enough he's parked beside me. What dumb luck huh? He looks really angry the closer he gets. Crap once again. What now?
Ahhhh... then it came to me. What Would MacIntyre Do?
What could I do? So I shirted him and started feeding him rights to the side of the noggin'. It shocked him a little. You could see it in his eyes. He starts to cover his head. So I did what Big Mac would do. I started feeding him in the ribs. (I learned from Big Mac that no matter what, you need to hit the opponent somewhere that's vulnerable or otherwise it's a waste of a punch) So I kept swinging until I was satisfied that he was going to be stunned. He fell to the ground and I found my opening to make a run for it. I snatched up all my gifts and jumped into my old crown victoria and sped off quickly.
Next stop... Tim Hortons.
Mmmmmm... Double Double.
Geez... what an afternoon. Next time I am going to send the wife. She's more like Chopper. She just goes in swinging her purse like she's big #18 and her life depends on it. Until next year...
Happy Holidays Everybody!!!

Smokin' Ray Burnt


***TRUE STORY: Based on true events that may or may not have happened in real life***

Sunday, December 14, 2008

The Oiler's Jambalaya #2 (Random Thoughts)


Hello once again...

I have a few things on the brain and was wondering what you guys thought.
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Why do fans complain about everything? Fire MacT. Trade Souray. Trade Lubo. The sky is falling. Trade everyone. What? Are you serious?
I mean really... we do have it pretty good. There just seems to be no patience anymore. When did everyone get uptight about things? We didn't really start out all that well in the '06 cup run either. The same people wanted Peca to sit out or be traded. Right? Now wasn't he one of our best players during the playoffs that year? I am going to have to go out on a limb here... but I think Cole will be our Peca this year. I just think that things may turn around for the team (and Cole) in the new year. To the point that we look similar to the team in the '06 run. We have all the right pieces. We just need to figure it all out again. Hopefully this time half the team doesn't leave after the year is done.
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If our (Oiler) colours are blue and copper. Why is red shown on everything. Take a look a jersey. One little red pin stripe and all of the sudden our colours are red and blue. Why? No really... Why?

I bought a lawn chair. Blue and Red. T shirts... blue and red. I have three toques. They are all blue, white and red. The oil drop is copper. Nothing else though. Underwear... blue and red. My winter gloves... blue and red. Knick knacks... blue and red.

This could be more puzzling than the leaning tower of Pisa. It's whacked. Yet nothing we can do about it. But yet it drives me mad. Hmmm....

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Does anyone else think that we need a new format for the all star game? I do.

I really believe that every team needs to have at least one representative at the game. (there was a few years when the Oilers had no one go.) I think that the fans should only vote on their own team. Say the Oil fans vote for Souray. Then he is the rep for the Oilers. After all that, then the league can decide the rest. ***For the record.. it should be a crime if you are in the top 20 in points in the league and you don't make it. (it's happened before)

Hold on... I know this is a crappy set up but it is a start. I want your opinions on this. What would you do?

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I have heard about people wanting to do a lottery for the draft picks to prevent people from tanking the season. I like it. Here's my theory.

I would host the lotto draft the same weekend as the all star break. I would put one ball for each team in a pit and one by one pull a name. Starting with the 1st pick overall, and ending with #30.

Now the team that was luck and was given the #1 pick will not qualify for the #1 pick again for 10 years. That way nine other teams can have a chance at getting the #1 pick. If say, next year the team that was 1st last year was picked again, they move to #2. Then the #2 pick will receive the #1 pick. Then it goes back to #3, 4, 5 etc...

The reason that I say to do the draft at the all star break is so that teams can trade for the high picks and know what they are getting. I believe the trade deadline could be that more exciting. And maybe stop the giving up of teams near the end of the season.



Thoughts???
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Sunday, December 7, 2008

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

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Welcome to the Oilers Jambalaya


Hello everyone and welcome.

My name is Smokin' Ray Burnt. I am a musician (more on that later) and a avid Oilers fan. I am 31 years old and I have been a fan of the Oilers since I was 7 years old. (1984 for those who don't want to do the math) Why the Oilers? Not sure why. But I do know how.

I had a relative who was trying to break into the league with the Philly Flyers back in the mid 80's(he managed 20 something games and then blew his knee out) and something (CBC) must have drawn me to the blue and orange. (incidentally my two favorite colors) My dad always liked hockey. He would listen to the Canucks games on the radio in the car. So I grew to like it too. I just remember watching the 1984/85 playoffs with him and falling in love with this magical team. This Oiler team. They were fast and tough. They were smart and lethal. Everyone was mystified by Gretzky. But Messier was my favorite player. Semenko was a close second. And wow... Paul Coffey. Grant Fuhr. Gretzky. Kurri. It was great. I was spoiled and didn't even know it.

So that was that. I am a very loyal guy (ask Pepsi) and that was my team for now on. Forever. It was a little harsh sometimes being a fan because I grew up in B.C. No one could understand why I wasn't a nucks fan. For one, they suck! Two, I don't care. My old man cheers for them but not I. The razing went from bad to worse in the mid 90's. (I think most people can remember) But I didn't care. They were my team and I kept up hope.

By the late 90's I had moved my way up to the awesome city of Edmonton and the hardworking province of Alberta. I ended up living 4 blocks away from Northlands. (I miss that name) It was awesome to be at the games and experience the "air" around a playoff game. That's right... I paid the $1 and beat the hell out of the Colorado Avalanche car with a sledgehammer in front of the Skyreach Center. That was fun. And I seen Mark Sholtz and that fatter dude from breakfast television play with their band outside of the arena. Bad ass is what that is. jk It was even better because the games that I couldn't afford to go to I would rush home as the game was about to begin and turn on the game with the mute on and listen to the live crowd. Playoff crowds are freaking awesome in Edmonton. So I would be on my couch and cheer with the crowd I heard coming through my window.

Then the great mighty run of the modern era. I'll tell you one thing. I almost cried the day they announced the Peca/Pronger signings. It felt like my hope and patience for the past 16 some odd years was finally paying off. And it almost did. Game 7 almost. I cried then... Then I was spitting mad a few days later. (still am...) I couldn't understand why anyone would want to go? 1 game from a championship and you want to give that all away for "greener pastures"? Bull crap I say. But life goes on and here we are at present day.

I've seen a lot as a regular everyday normal fan. I have opinions just like the next guy. Am I right sometimes? Hope so. Am I wrong sometimes? Most likely. But who cares. I am passionate about this team. I am their #1 fan. (like 18,000 others) I just hope I can bring another side of things out. If it's game day then I will be at http://www.oilernation.com/ Oh damn good fun there.

So....

Thank you for stopping by and I hope I can entertain you. Or at least waste your time.

Smokin' Ray Burnt

You can check my profile to visit my music site.

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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.