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HDIC Liveblogged? Okay, why not?!
by Alanah McGinley on 01/13/07 at 10:38 AM ET
Comments (139)
It’s Hockey Day in Canada and I doubt I’ll move far from the couch today, equipped as I am with junk food, sandwich materials, pots of coffee and (eventually) a bottle case of ciders. Should be perfect.
For basics on the schedule, go here. However, for the rest of the day, I’ll be adding to this post with any odds & ends from the day that might be of interest to readers. For those people that can’t get the HDIC broadcast and have a specific request, let me know and I’ll do my best to make it magically appear on this post… at least for as long as I remain conscious.
And of course, anyone who has their own HDIC stories or links to pass on, please leave that information in the comments. The more voices, the merrier, I say!
See ya throughout the day. Updates will start appearing below shortly…
Liveblogging Hockey Day
Note #1: all times in PST. I plan on drinking later and I will have no interest in doing eastern time zone math calculations.
Note #2: I can be reached all day by email at alanah (at) canucksandbeyond.com. Send tips and encouragement.
___________________________
9:00 a.m. -- It’s official! The 7th (right?) annual Hockey Day in Canada kicks off. For the rest of the day, every hour, I’ll be posing a trivia question—starting at 10:00 a.m. The first comment that comes in with the right answer will win bragging rights and (maybe) a small prize. It all depends on whether I can convince someone to donate prizes.
(I need sponsors, dammit!)
The trivia questions are all coming from the “Hockey Night in Canada Game” I got for Christmas. They’re actually pretty easy, honest. Even I know the answers sometimes…
9:10 a.m. -- I love the CBC hockey crew, but if they continue to dress this badly all day, I may have to provide photos. Man, us Canadians are such willing fashion geeks.
9:16 a.m. -- For more about Nelson, BC, where HDIC is based out of today, here is the city website.
9:35 -- There’s a live chat with Drew Remenda online right now. Join in. Ask him about how he thinks Toronto fans will react when the Leafs miss the playoffs this year…
10:00 a.m.—Trivia Question #1
“Who was the last player to win the NHL scoring title in 1980 before Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux took over in 1981?”
(Updated 10:55-- the answer was “Marcel Dionne”. No one even tried. I’m very annoyed...)
10:10 a.m. --
What? No one can answer that trivia question? Are you kidding me...?
10:16 a.m. -- One of the commitments I made today was to record the CBC broadcast for this Canucks fan who can’t get the show himself in China. Of course I’ve been sort of terrified of screwing up the tape, so guess what? I did. I somehow hit the stop button for 20 minutes. (Sorry Expat.)
It’s recording again now and I’ve hid the remote control from myself to avoid sitting on it or something else moronic in the coming hours.
10:28 a.m.—Random Moment of Canadian Solidarity #1
10:37 a.m.—Heart Issues
CBC just had a feature discussing the issue of heart problems amongst hockey players. In case anyone has further interest, here is a dedicated page on Healthy Heart Hockey Tips. Good, basic advice for players of all ages and levels of conditioning.
10:50 a.m.—Hockey in Vancouver Today
Since the Canucks are playing on the road tonight, GM Place is opening up the building for fans to come on in and watch the team take on Toronto at 4pm PT. Then after the NHL game, everyone in the building can hang out and catch the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds game.
I understand some of my podcast mates from The Crazy Canucks will be there, so if you’re at the game watch for them as they walk around with microphones and beer, asking odd questions of random strangers around the concourse.
11:00 a.m.—Trivia Question #2
(Let’s try this again. These hourly questions are not that hard, people. Bloody hell...)
Q: “In 2001-02, who became the first Russian defenceman to record 500 career NHL points?”
A: Sergei Zuboz (updated 11:57 a.m. No guesses. You people are a great disappointment to me)
11:10 a.m.—Montreal and Ottawa Game 1 of the Triple Header
The fans are loud and ready to go. Should be a good game. Meanwhile, a Habs fan just sent me this link as a reminder to Senators fans of previous ‘good times’. So, “Go Habs!” (Or Sens… honestly, I don’t much care...)
11:15 a.m.—Break Time
Okay, I’m going to take a break as this game gets underway.
No, wait. I’m actually going on strike till someone makes a stab at answering that trivia question above. I mean, for godsakes, these questions are from the HNIC trivia board game… Don Cherry himself probably wrote these questions. How hard could they really be?
11:55 a.m.—Bill Barilko
For all the trash talk I intend to throw at the Toronto Maple Leafs today, allow me to demonstrate a bit of respect. Here’s a glance a famous Leaf who died tragically. CBC just did a short feature with his sister, at the Hockey Hall of Fame.
12:00 noon—Trivia Question #3
Q: “What two Montreal Canadiens both had a 50-goal season in 1976-77?”
A: Steve Shutt and Guy Lafleur (Updated 12:50 pm. No guesses. Y’all suck.)
12:08 p.m.—Bad Behavior
Cider, anyone?
Why, thank you I do believe I will…
12:14 p.m.—Wow.
Geez, this game is already at 6-0 early in the 2nd period? Forget this lowly blogger—maybe we should all buy Cristobal Huet a drink.
12:16 p.m.—Wow Part 2
Umm. Suddenly the Canadiens have scored two, and the score is 6-2. Just ignore me. Where’d my cider go…
12:26 p.m.—Random Moment of Canadian Solidarity #2
Nice to be able to throw both Vancouver and Montreal some good karma at the same time.
12:38 p.m.—A Small Complaint
I wonder why CBC didn’t think to do an online broadcast of the entire show today—like TSN did for the World Junior Championship games? It’s my understanding that TSN’s online experiment was hugely successful, and it’s usually CBC I expect to come up with the innovative ideas in hockey broadcasting.
But perhaps they think drunken liveblogs are the wave of the future? Hmmm.
12:43 p.m.—Wow, Part 3
Ottawa makes it 8-2 late in the 2nd. You know what we really need to talk about later? Why there aren’t enough goals being scored in the NHL these days.
(God willing, Vancouver has a game like this against Toronto in a couple hours.) Another cider, anyone?!
1:00 p.m.—Trivia Question #4
Q: “Who became the first Ottawa Senator to record a 100-point season when he scored 103 in 2005-06?”
A: No one tried, yet again. So allow me to reveal the answer to the easiest hockey trivia question in history - “Dany Heatley”. (updated 1:50 pm)
1:14 p.m.—Hockey Stops Crime
It might be HDIC, but here’s an American story from a while back on the Tampa Bay Lightning message boards:
“Some guy was trying to break into my house and I chased him off with my son’s goalie stick. I hope the druggie peed his pants! My son plays at the mite level, but even the little kids have big goalie sticks!
“For those of you wanting the details...I was home when my 8 year-old son called out from the living room that someone was on our lanai. I had planned on being safe and opening the window to see what this person wanted, but I realized he was playing with the lock and knob, so I called 911 and let it be known that there were people in the house. When I realized he was about to break in before the sheriff arrived, I grabbed my son’s goalie stick slammed it against the door. The guy backed away, but came right back. As soon as I saw that he got the door open I went after him with my son’s goalie stick. I scared the crap out of the guy as I swung at him (high sticking, tripping, every penalty in the book). The sheriff said he was still running when they passed him on the way to my house! Talk about adrenaline rush. I could not have done that if my kid was a soccer player! THIS IS HOCKEY!”
Okay, so it’s not exactly a standard hockey “feel good” story, but what the hell.
1:22 p.m.—Edmonton Sucks?
Why, sure it does. Besides, I can’t use up all my Toronto material before the Vancouver game. Courtesy of OilersSuck.com (is that a killer domain or what?) I thought I’d pass this along:
You have to understand: HDIC isn’t just about loving hockey—it’s about hating every other team but yours. (Or is that just me...? Never mind.)
Note: I just noticed that OilersSuck.com has a merchandise store. Beauty, although I’m thinking that thong really sends the wrong message. For too many reasons to mention…
1:42 p.m.—Senators Win
Oh, sorry. I mean, the Senators slaughtered the freakin’ Habs… 8-3. I like and dislike both teams equally, so I don’t care much. However I also see that Pittsburgh took their 6th game of the season off of Philadelphia, and that was fun.
Really, who doesn’t like watching the Flyers lose repeatedly for no apparent reason? The answer, of course, is ‘nobody’.
2:00 p.m.—Trivia Question #5
Q: “In 1911, what was added to the NHL player uniforms to make them easier to identify on the ice?”
(If someone can’t guess this one, I give up on all of you forever...)
A: Numbers. (Those who guessed correctly are mentioned below. Thank you for renewing my faith your hockey expertise, guys.)
2:38 p.m.—Excellence!
I see the last trivia question FINALLY earned the correct answer. Hell, I’m just happy some people even tried. Appreciation to resident trivia experts Sherry, Temujin and GZ Expat.
I didn’t mean to take such a long break, but I stepped outside into -100c weather. This is the west coast, for godsakes. I’m not built for this madness, so I froze up solid and I’m still thawing.
Back in a minute…
2:54 p.m.—Hockey Challenges
I got back in time to see a great feature about a young boy (Tyler) who has a some social challenges, and his family has found hockey has given him a some great lessons.
This isn’t really related, but it reminded me there are many other areas of hockey we should learn about—reminders that hockey is for more than just our kids and our NHLers. The Canadian Amputee Hockey Team is a good example.
3:00 p.m.—Trivia Question #6
Q: “As of the 2005-06 season, who held the Vancouver Canuck record for most career playoff points?”
A: Trevor Linden (And Zanstorm wins the cookie for #6. Well done!)
3:13 p.m.—Matt Cooke Signed with the Leafs?
Prepping my brain for the Most Important Game in The Country Today, I read this article:
Cooke was nearly a Maple Leaf 10 seasons ago when he signed a free-agent deal with the team after going to camp as an undrafted junior. However, former Leaf general manager Cliff Fletcher didn’t register the contract in timely fashion, making Cooke eligible for the 1997 draft.
The Canucks then selected him with the 144th pick. A year later, Cooke made his NHL debut in Vancouver colours.
“My signature was on that contract,” Cooke said before the Canucks flew back east on Friday, “it’s just that Cliff Fletcher’s wasn’t. He didn’t send it to the league in time. Anyway, it will be nice to play in Toronto.”
Scary to realize how close one of my favorite players came to having become one of my most hated ones. *shudder*
3:35—More Canucks Trivia
Trevor Linden wears Arnold Schwartz-a (howeverthehellyouspellit) pajamas. I really didn’t need to know that.
3:43 p.m.—Running Down Toronto
I believe clever hockey fans will have noticed an anti-Leafs theme today. Or am I too subtle? Just in case, here is a must-watch video to enjoy before the game starts.
My endless gratitude and affection to Jes Golbez for sending this over to me earlier. God bless his blackened, Leafs-hating soul…
4:00 p.m.—Trivia Question #7
Q: “As of the 2005-06 season, what goaltender had played the most career games for the Calgary Flames with 467?”
A: Mike Vernon—And this hour’s cookie goes to Tyler, who actually gets bonus points for adding “He sucks” in his answer. Nicely done.
*Almost missed Dave, who also guessed correctly. But no bonus points for Dave, as he didn’t manage to work any insults into his response. 
Note: This next couple hours is gonna be a bit heavy on the Canucks… for obvious reasons.
4:09 p.m.—Mission Impossible?
Very nice that the Leafs are honouring the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces today. But I can’t be the only one who nearly coughed up a lung laughing just now, when I heard the theme music to Mission Impossible being played in the Air Canada Center.
Wow. That’s just PERFECT! It’s enough to make a Canucks fan almost feel welcome in that building. 
4:24 p.m.—Bieksa and Salo Suck
No not really. But what the hell? We’re down 5-3 because of two of our best d-men? Not a great sign.
On the other hand, Luongo’s late-in-the-penalty save? A very good sign.
Not to mention a nice McCabe penalty. (What a putz.)
Still, all of this sort of thing is easier to take when you’re drunk.
4:27 p.m.—Score!
Go Ohlund! And about that complaining I was doing a minute ago? I take it back.
4:39 p.m.—Bastard Toronto Cheaters
Bates freakin’ Bataglia. Nice to see a video review, for fun anyway. But geezus… (yeah, it’s possible Toronto wasn’t so much “cheating” as Vancouver was “sucking")
4:42 p.m.—Yay Penalties! Fun!
Yeah, I’m joking. Still, I do find it slightly more fun when it’s Leafs penalties…
4:49 p.m.—Random Observation
One of the unexpected bonuses to having an expensive so-called ‘superstar’ goalie is that every time Luongo makes a save—no matter how easy it might happen to be—every commentator in the NHL can’t help but gush over him. “Look how Luongo stopped that puck drifting 3 feet wide of the net! Wow!” A strange phenomenon.
Note: I’ve discovered that too many people get upset with me when I say stuff like that Luongo comment above. Honest, I like the guy. I swear!
5:00 p.m.—Trivia Question #8
Q: “In 2005-06, who became only the fourth NHL rookie to score 50 goals in one season?”
A: Yup, it’s Ovechkin, and Tyler raids the cookie jar again. With more bonus points for trash-talking one of the best players in hockey. I’m in awe.
5:08— Sedin Squared
A Swede just scored from a Swede through some other Swedes… or something. Canucks are ahead on a powerplay goal and that’s ALL that’s important. Excellent.
5:15—Green Squared is Fu#king Me Up
Two Greens on the ice, for different teams. Maybe it would be a good idea if the freakin’ Harry-Cole pair used FIRST names when running down the plays. “Green backhands and Raycroft makes the stop!” isn’t helpful. I have no trouble imagining Travis Green firing shots against his own goalie.
5:30—Was that a Cuban?
Honest to god, what the hell is up with the penalties in this game?
And did I just see Mark Cuban out of the corner of my eye?
And why does he love Don Cherry so much?
So many questions, yet I have so little commitment to answering them…
5:41 p.m.—End of 2nd Period
Gotta like it when the referee takes out a Toronto rush down the wing. Nice consolation prize for all the penalties, anyway.
6:00 p.m.—Trivia Question #9
Q: “What NHL franchise has won the most playoff series in the history of the NHL?”
A: Montreal Canadiens—correct answer goes to Dave.
6:05 p.m.—What’s in a name?
It’s one thing when the Harry-Coles mess up Bieksa/Beeksa/Bliska/Benson ‘s name, but Markus Naslund’s name? Seriously? Oy.
6:06 p.m.—Go Linden
Guess the PJ’s are working for him.
6:07 p.m.—Go ??!!
Ah, Pyatt. Nice work for a 13 second span of time… 4-1. Fun!
6:08 p.m—Dear Zanstorm
Canucks > Leafs
Agreed?
6:10 p.m.—Another Leafs Penalty?
Geez, fun watching Toronto have a melt-down.
Ignore that—I’m the one having a meltdown…
6:23 p.m.—More Damn Fun!
Canucks get a wacko goal. Raycroft just did sort of a glove-version of that Tommy Salo goal from the 2002 Olympics. 5-1 Canucks.
Crap, I’m not even sure who scored… uh oh…
6:32 p.m.—Not Mats Naslund
6-1 goal by the Captain, and Harry-Cole get the name right. I think blow-outs are awesome… when it’s my team.
6:35 p.m.—Belak Boxed
Canucks fight for that ever-important 7th goal. Go Canucks!
Oh god, I’m really going to need a break before Game #3
6:45 p.m.—Fantastic!!
Anyone that knows me will understand why I think this photo is the coolest thing ever. Wow.
That just makes my day.
HELP!
7:10 p.m.—Calgary & Edmonton
I hate them both so much… I’m not sure where to go with this liveblog now.
It could get ugly. Oh boy.. just let me think…
7:20 p.m.—Embracing the Hatred
Okay, well, if it’s a challenge to cheer for anyone, I might as well create a liveblog series all about the joint evil of Calgary and Edmonton. At least until something else entertaining occurs to me.
To start with Calgary: Lombardi is fast and slick and very, very good. He also spanks the Canucks regularly, so he’s a natural target. Then there’s Phaneuf—any guy who’s name can be used as a profanity (i.e. “Phaneuf You!") is worthy of derision. And then there’s Kipper. Aside from having a cutesy nickname like Kipper, the guy’s also been a major Canuck thorn. I hope he gets 9 goals against tonight.
Edmonton: I’m not sure how to express my repressed hatred from last year’s horror of them making the playoffs and us missing them, without seeming totally insane. So I’ll get back to them later. I also wouldn’t mind Roloson getting 9 goals against tonight. Cross your fingers.
7:34 p.m.—Sit back and watch
I’m going to sit back and watch the game for a bit, secure with the suggestion that Baroque just made in the comments: “you can blame the Flames for all the destruction caused by wild fires, and blame the Oil for global warming.”
Works for me.
By the way, check out this story. Not cool at all.
Note: I realize I missed the 7 p.m. trivia question. I’ll be sure to put up two of them at 8 o’clock.
8:00 p.m.—Trivia Questions #10 and #11
Q: “Who did the Ottawa Senators pick up in the 1994 draft with the 133rd pick?”
A: Daniel Alfredsson—Well played, Nigel.
Q: “What are the standard dimensions (in feet) of the opening of an NHL net?”
A: 4’x6’—Al and Nigel both get a blue ribbon. Thanks for playing.
8:03 p.m.—Vern Davis
For the year of the volunteer angle that HDIC has been promoting all day, they spent time with Vern Davis, who had a chance to drop the puck at the opening of the Oilers/Flames game. More about Mr. Davis can be read here. Davis: “Hockey is in my blood. I’ve played it all my life, until I was about 65.”
8:11 p.m.—Go Kipper!
I know it reveals my petty side, but I really like it when someone, anyone, scores while Kipper is stretched out on his stomach, staring at the ice. Makes me enjoy the game a bit more. Edmonton, 1-0. Now let’s see if Calgary can do something fun, like score off Roloson’s butt, or something…
8:20 p.m.—Go Roli!
Sad—beaten by a guy who hasn’t scored a goal in 50 games - since last March. Nice one Jeff Friesen. I enjoyed that. 1-1.
8:26 p.m.—Alumni Game
Courtesy of Miss 604 I see that the Canucks Alumni have a game scheduled tomorrow. All sorts of great ex-players there, which is to be expected. But here’s the weird thing—Dave Coulier from the old tv show, Full House, will be playing.
Is our Alumni so thin that ex-sitcom stars are added to the lineup for extra flair?
8:40 p.m.—A Gift For Eastern Conference Fans
In case you’re not familiar with this charming resource, LeafsSuck.ca will provide you with hours of personal amusement whenever your team has to play Toronto for the remainder of the season. Enjoy.
8:50 p.m.—Italy Rules
This just made my day. HDIC just reported the broadcast of the Canucks/Leafs game that was done in Italian earlier. The thing is, Toronto even sounds like they were punked in a language I don’t know a single word of. Very nice stuff.
(Geez, a 6-1 win over the Leafs really is the gift that keeps on giving.)
9:00 p.m.—Trivia Questions #12
Q: “Who became the second Czech-born player to record a 50-goal season in the NHL when he scored 50 in 2002-03?”
A: Milan Hejduk is the guy. Tapeleg gets the whole cookie. (Al also reported the same answer but I think there’s little doubt he just copied it off Tapeleg.)
9:05 p.m.—Truth in Reporting
From the Associated Press tonight, this headline “Canucks Enjoy Embarrassing Maple Leafs” and writer Rob Gillies opens his story with “The Vancouver Canucks enjoyed embarrassing the Toronto Maple Leafs at home in front of a national audience.” Mr. Gillies might be my new favorite sportswriter. (And now, I promise to quit being smug about that game. I’m sure fate will punish me if I don’t shut up about it soon.)
9:21 p.m.—Calgary gets a goal
Just in case anyone is actually depending on me for the box score. (Fools.)
As Baroque pointed out in the comments earlier, we (as in Canucks fans) would be smarter rooting for Edmonton since they’re not able to take us out of the top spot in the standings tonight. But honestly, nothing will make me happy unless there’s a way for them both to lose. Someone, make that happen. Please.
9:25 p.m.—Calgary (yawn) gets another goal
I told you Lombardi was ridiculous, did I not? 3-1 Calgary, 4 minutes + remaining. (Wow. ESPN has nothing on this game summary...)
9:39 p.m.—Last Call
Okay Calgary wins—no worries. Keeps the NW division interesting, I figure. Till March I can handle ‘interesting’. After that I’ll worry.
Now we’ve got “After Hours”, then at 10:00 p.m. I’ll put up the last trivia question of the day, the winner of which will be called the ‘Hockey Trivia God’ on this blog.
And then I’ll be passing the hell out.
Sound good? Excellent!
10:00 p.m.—Trivia Question #13 Last Question!
Q: “How many teams were in the NHL during the 1991-92 season?”
A: 22.
Hockey Trivia God: Tapeleg
Well done everyone! Thanks for playing, thanks for hanging out. Thanks for an entertaining HDIC.
Good night!
Filed in: | Canucks and Beyond | Permalink
Comments
Goodness, it hasn’t even started yet and you’re already expecting failure? Bah! So little faith in me… 
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 11:57 AM ET
I think you can do it I look forward to reading it tomorrow after a long night of celebrating the Leafs win!
Posted by PPP on 01/13/07 at 12:41 PM ET
Oh, dear Leafs fans, I have some fun stuff in store for you guys later.
Today is going to be fun. As long as the Canucks win, that is… I live in hope.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 12:43 PM ET
According to a long-standing pun, there will be a population boom in Canada in ninth months!
Posted by beczar on 01/13/07 at 12:45 PM ET
You could be right, beczar. And now I sincerely hope that I do not receive any “what I did on hdic!” stories from those particular readers.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 12:56 PM ET
Maybe we can convince John, Rebecca and Dave to do a drunken podcast on the event too!
I’d like to propose another game for your readers: guess the approximate time when you run out of ciders! My guess would be between 3 and 3:30 PM.
Posted by J.J. from Vancouver, BC on 01/13/07 at 01:32 PM ET
Smart ass. You must realize, J.J., that I’ve matured a GREAT deal since last year’s badly advised drunken liveblogging adventures.
So I will not run out of ciders. (Or if I do, there’s a liquor store up the street, so...)
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 01:49 PM ET
(I need sponsors, dammit!)
(a) that’s what they say at AA, I hear.
(b) I will gladly donate or reimburse any money that gets spent on Alanah’s cider today.
Posted by Earl Sleek on 01/13/07 at 01:50 PM ET
Earl: Be careful, Ducks fan—the expense could add up. I’ve already had a virus delete my email this morning and I’m a woman on the edge.
Waiting till noon to consume booze is seeming like less of a priority with every passing minute…
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 02:07 PM ET
well, it’s officially after noon everywhere, and i definitely feel the need to start drinking…
Posted by E from Montreal on 01/13/07 at 04:01 PM ET
HDIC was on Center Ice, which was a pleasant surprise. I saw the piece on St. Michael’s in Toronto. It was a great piece.
Posted by Dave on 01/13/07 at 04:16 PM ET
Thanks for adding that, Dave… I’m afraid I get a bit sidetracked on occasion.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 04:30 PM ET
I know this is going to sound so un-Canadian of me, but I’m watching the Philly/Pittsburgh game on NBC right now and it is a beauty!
Posted by J.J. from Vancouver, BC on 01/13/07 at 04:48 PM ET
Molson XXX if flowing today during HDIC at my home.
You folks need to start catching up.
Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 01/13/07 at 05:07 PM ET
Don’t worry, J.J. There’s a 3 hour time difference between you and Paul. I’m sure you’ll be just as sloshed in no time.
You Canucks fans are such lushes, I hear…
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 05:27 PM ET
An entire day of drinking and hockey? Alanah, you’re a god...don’t get too blind stinking drunk before you get a chance to watch the Canucks stomp the leafs. That’s a gift that’ll keep on giving all year long…
Posted by Mike on 01/13/07 at 05:36 PM ET
Thanks, Mike. I plan on fully enjoying the destruction of the Leafs later, fear not.
But I’m wondering now why more people don’t refer to me as a ‘god’? I’d like to encourage that kind of thing in the future…
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 05:47 PM ET
Patrick Eaves scores on the breakaway....with the blade of his stick! That was strange!
Alanah, I see the alcohol is already affecting your judgement. The Leafs will win tonight, oh yes.
Posted by Zanstorm from Smithers on 01/13/07 at 05:58 PM ET
Whatever delusions make life better for you, Zanstorm. I’m okay with that.
Meanwhile, I’m taking a short break. I need to go for a walk, get some fresh air. But by the time I get back, I hope to see an answer to that last trivia question, people!
Anyone?
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 06:06 PM ET
Re: Trivia Question #5: I’m going to go with “numbers”.
Sorry I haven’t been keeping track of the liveblogging efforts. I was a little busy simultaneously cheering and somewhat freaking out with the whole two-games in 22 seconds thing.
Posted by Sherry on 01/13/07 at 06:15 PM ET
Zan: Actually it was Antoine Vermette scoring with the blade of his stick. I was fooled! It looked so close...and it would have been a sweet goal.
Posted by Sherry on 01/13/07 at 06:16 PM ET
and by games...I meant goals. Sorry I’m done spamming now.
Posted by Sherry on 01/13/07 at 06:18 PM ET
“They nearly crapped their pants when they heard I was going to be on here today” - it was fun to hear that on CBC :-p We’re heading out soon to GM Place, good luck with the liveblogging today!!
Posted by Rebecca from Vancouver on 01/13/07 at 06:21 PM ET
I’m gonna go with “numbers” being added to the back of the jerseys, based on this picture right here, which clearly shows numbers on the backs of the jerseys, but no names.
Even if I’m not right, I ought to get an honourable mention for at least attempting an answer!
Posted by Temujin from Smithers, BC on 01/13/07 at 06:26 PM ET
It’s 6:30am here...do I need to start drinking too?
Trivia Answer. Numbers!
Posted by GZ Expat on 01/13/07 at 06:29 PM ET
Do we know when they started putting names on the backs of jerseys?
I always thought it coincided with the whole ‘helmet’ movement, cause you could no longer identify the player by his face… but I could just be talkin outta my butt here....
Posted by Rebecca from Vancouver on 01/13/07 at 06:39 PM ET
Thanks for the trivia question answers, all!
Rebecca—Sorry, I think you are talking out of your butt But that being said, I honestly have no idea. My guess would be earlier than the ‘helmet’ era, though.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 07:00 PM ET
OH my internet connection is brutal today. One thing to be said about bureacratic commie governments...they could give a crap about the free flow of hockey information. They just don’t care about re-routing the traffic in order to make it smoother here.
I’ll pop in from time to time...Go Canucks!
Posted by GZ Expat on 01/13/07 at 07:08 PM ET
Names on the back of the sweater came around in the late 50s and early 60s. Also, the number on the sleeve came around in the 60s to help the announcers identify the player.
Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 01/13/07 at 07:08 PM ET
Wrong, Paul. At least according to my trusty Hockey Night In Canada trivia game. According to the card in front of me, numbers were added to jerseys in 1911. Unless you’re saying that they were only on the backs until the 60s, then added to the arms at that time.
Or maybe it’s just Detroit you’re thinking of. Odds are, the Wings have always been behind the times…
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 07:16 PM ET
The names began popping up in the 60’s and 70’s as expansion of the game grew. In the old days, revenue from program sales was a big thing, and teams withheld putting names on, particularly the home team, sweaters in order to garner more $$$ from program sales. But, as expansion grew, more and more fans were sat with strange looks on their faces asking, ‘Who the f* is that guy?’
With all the 27 letter Russian names appearing in the NHL these days, it may be better to take the names off the sweaters again, so you can buy a dictionary to learn how to pronounce them.
Speaking of names on the back of jerseys...isn’t ‘Satan’ about the worst name you could have back there? If he wore 66 and played for the Devils...I’d be running for the door!!
Posted by GZ Expat on 01/13/07 at 07:19 PM ET
Answer to #6:
I’d have to say Linden is the career leader for Canucks playoff points.
Bure holds their record for most playoff points in one season, at 31.
Posted by Zanstorm from Smithers on 01/13/07 at 07:24 PM ET
i think it’s cute Heinz wore the number 57 though :p
Posted by Rebecca from Vancouver on 01/13/07 at 07:25 PM ET
Expat: You’ve reminded me of one my favourite online headlines of the past year. I found it on NHL.com and I originally posted this when I was writing on VCOE. Here it is again:
__________________
I still think it’s a classic.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 07:28 PM ET
hehe and Mike Commodore should wear 64. Okay, 2 beer down, now heading to GM Place - Go NUCKS!
Posted by Rebecca from Vancouver on 01/13/07 at 07:28 PM ET
Nice one Rebecca. I’m seriously looking forward to your comments after beer #6....
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 07:36 PM ET
Of all the bums to draft, why Matt Cooke? Did you see the list of players drafted after him?
Aebischer, Nagy, Laaksonen…
Heck, after the way Cooke has played this season, even 170th overall pick Eero Somervuori would have been better!
Tee Hee, Tee Hee.
Posted by Temujin from Smithers, BC on 01/13/07 at 07:37 PM ET
A- I was referring to the number on the sleever, as I stated in the comment. The players never had a number on the sleeve until that time period.
Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 01/13/07 at 07:37 PM ET
Temujin -- You just say this stuff to piss me off, don’t you? Well if won’t work! I have ciders… many of them.
Paul -- Okay, I stand corrected. But you’d better be careful… I’m keeping a close eye on the trivia expertise being thrown around here today!
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 07:46 PM ET
Alanah - I know Matt Cooke is going to play one helluva game tonight.
The Mo-Linden-Cooke line has been really good, with no signs of slowing down. A Hattie for Mattie tonight!
Posted by Temujin from Smithers, BC on 01/13/07 at 07:54 PM ET
Just wondering if any of you saw the Canadiens-Senators game through NHL Center Ice on DirecTV. We called DirecTV when we didn’t get it and they said the NHL told them that they couldn’t show it because of the competing NBC coverage.
Posted by Greg from Central PA on 01/13/07 at 07:58 PM ET
Greg, the game was not on CI either via Comcast. NBC has exclusive rights in the USA, meaning the only games that were shown on CI were the two games that were being broadcast in different parts of the country.
Of course, NBC could have and in my mind, should have waived the rights today for HDIC.
Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 01/13/07 at 08:03 PM ET
Temujin -- If you start saying nice things about Cooke, you’ll confuse me. And I’m so easily confused at this point.
Greg -- There’s more info about that here in the comments. Apparently Center Ice is showing it later or something? Ridiculous.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 08:05 PM ET
Crap ! ! I have tickets to the next Chicago game here, so I will have to watch this one. Here is hoping the Nuks/Leafs game is a snoozer. Taping it just in case. Catch up with your take after the game, if you are still coherent.
Posted by Gramps from HockeyTown on 01/13/07 at 08:09 PM ET
It’s Kevin BIEKSA. Not Bieska. BI-EK-SA.
Freakin’ Toronto commentators.
Posted by J.J. from Vancouver, BC on 01/13/07 at 08:22 PM ET
Kevin Bieska??? It was in writing on his penalty announcement. Both Bob & Harry said it too.
Posted by Dominic Poon from Richmond on 01/13/07 at 08:24 PM ET
God, for a second I thought you guys were saying that I was screwing up Bieksa’s name. Geezus…
About the CBC announcers however, I advise you all not to expect much from the Harry-Cole pair. That way you’ll never be disappointed.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 08:31 PM ET
I’m gonna take a swig o’ my beer whenever Cole and Neale mispronounce BIEKSA’s name. Who’s in?
Posted by J.J. from Vancouver, BC on 01/13/07 at 08:35 PM ET
I’m in J.J. I’m looking forward to watching your rapid deterioration.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 08:42 PM ET
I’m thinking that Toronto goal shouldn’t have counted on account of Battaglia nearly decapitating Luongo. But whatever.
My friends and I have made a drinking game to make this game faster. One drink for a penalty, when somebody falls on their butt for no good reason, and when Raycroft lets in a soft goal.
Posted by Sherry on 01/13/07 at 09:13 PM ET
Fun game. I approve!
But throw in J.J.’s “Bieksa” game as well. You’ll be unconscious in no time. Game over.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 09:18 PM ET
I log on to this hours and hours late, and you still haven’t bad-mouthed the Avalanche? Do you feel well?
Or have you just decided to switch allegiances to a team that represents all that is good and true?
Posted by Greg from Atlanta on 01/13/07 at 09:19 PM ET
Faceoff win %
Crosby 49.9%
Ovechkin 66.7%
Posted by Gramps from HockeyTown on 01/13/07 at 09:20 PM ET
Greg -- Thanks for the reminder. Stay tuned for trash-talk, Avs-boy.
Gramps -- Nice throwdown. Now I’ll look forward to Tyler’s counter-move…
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 09:24 PM ET
The only insults I throw out are directed at my own teams. Osgood sucks! Nice stop on that second Chicago goal dude.
Posted by Dave on 01/13/07 at 09:32 PM ET
Geez, Dave, no insulting others? You’re missing out. Ask Greg above, I’ve made a small career out of trash-talking his team.
Of course, my own team is the Canucks… I can’t really avoid insulting them most days either.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 09:36 PM ET
The LEafs are down 2-1, but they WILL come back gaddammit!!!
Posted by Zanstorm from Smithers on 01/13/07 at 09:37 PM ET
zzz....not only is Cole way past his expiry date, but he is so frickin boring to listen to.
Posted by Jes Gőlbez Uršul'ák on 01/13/07 at 10:02 PM ET
Ha, Samuelsson gets sent to the box for holding the stick and a fan in a Wings sweater behind the box was holding up a Fire Millen sign.
Posted by Dave on 01/13/07 at 10:05 PM ET
Raycroft...hahahahaha. We should play these guys more often.
Posted by Mike on 01/13/07 at 10:10 PM ET
When did the Canucks sign Mats Naslund? I knew they had some offensive struggles...but, damn
3-1
4-1..oh that was phunny
Posted by Jes Gőlbez Uršul'ák on 01/13/07 at 10:11 PM ET
We’ve added “When Kaberle doesn’t shoot” to our drinking game.
Anybody see that referee interfering with the Leafs player? Maybe he should be a defenseman. Lord knows the Leafs could use it.
Posted by Sherry on 01/13/07 at 10:14 PM ET
Dave—Can you clarify that Millen comment? Is he working some game tonight? I thought he’d retired, or moved to the moon, or something…
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 10:16 PM ET
Sherry, you really shouldn’t drive tonight. Just saying.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 10:18 PM ET
Wrong Millein A. Matt Millen, Detroit Lions President and GM.
Posted by Paul from Motown Area on 01/13/07 at 10:22 PM ET
Thanks Paul. When I hear “Millen” I automatically think “Greg” and then I get a little afraid about his proximity to a hockey game I might have to watch in the future…
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 10:29 PM ET
6-1 and all I hear is one of these clowns say “This Vancouver team is not looking bad now”? Stunning, gripping stuff.
Posted by Mike on 01/13/07 at 10:32 PM ET
We’ve also added “When Gill is on top of the goalie”
Ugh, good thing I’m at home.
Is Mats Sundin PMSing or something? He’s seriously been grumpy tonight.
Posted by Sherry on 01/13/07 at 10:35 PM ET
A very satisfying game. Poor Cole and Neale are gonna go and cry now. awwwww
Posted by Jes Gőlbez Uršul'ák on 01/13/07 at 10:36 PM ET
Six to one? That is a week’s output!
(And Matt Millen is the patron saint of incompetence and living proof that no matter what economic system a league operates under, stupidity will triumph over all. I don’t follow football, but have a brother and brother-in-law who do.)
Posted by Baroque on 01/13/07 at 10:37 PM ET
Alanah, I dedicate this to you!
Yo Luongo!
While Zanstorm gently weeps…
Posted by Zanstorm from Smithers on 01/13/07 at 10:38 PM ET
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO-YAH!
Good to hear the Raycroft chants in the end!
Posted by J.J. from Vancouver, BC on 01/13/07 at 10:39 PM ET
Alanah, for the record, that was me posting the previous entry…
I forgot to change the name… hehehe… Wisers is my friend tonight.
Posted by Temujin from Smithers on 01/13/07 at 10:40 PM ET
Wow, that was seriously fun. especially when the Toronto crowd starting booing their own team. It made me tear up a bit, really. God knows, we’ve been spanked in that building plenty of times… nice to get a day of payback…
Now Calgary and Edmonton are up next!
Sherry is clearly in charge of the drinking games. Devise some Alberta ones for us!
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 10:40 PM ET
Golly, another Luongo win.
Did I hear “Tattoo”.
Was that Cole or Neale?
Posted by Gramps from HockeyTown on 01/13/07 at 11:10 PM ET
Root for Edmonton. Calgary has more points, and if Edmonton wins, they will both still be behind Vancouver.
Posted by Baroque on 01/13/07 at 11:15 PM ET
But the challenging question, Baroque, is if we should want Calgary stay with us, and drop Edmonton off. Then eventually, if all goes well, Edmonton slowly disappears off the radar and we only have Calgary to worry about.
A profound, important debate. (Or perhaps not.) But I struggle with it.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 11:27 PM ET
Also, you can blame the Flames for all the destruction caused by wild fires, and blame the Oil for global warming. :D
Posted by Baroque on 01/13/07 at 11:29 PM ET
‘Tis a dilemma, true. I tend to root for the trailing team to keep all oppenents as far behind as possible, but that is just my personal preference.
And did you mention to whoever it was that predicted failure that you have blogged 24 hours straight? Just a late night shouldn’t be that difficult, comparatively!
Posted by Baroque on 01/13/07 at 11:38 PM ET
Gramps -- Why remind me of my upcoming tattoo? I’d been having such a nice evening watching the Canucks slaughter Toronto.
Baroque -- While it’s true I did that 24-hour deal last summer, I think we can all agree that it went progressively downhill. Probably not something I should do too often.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 11:45 PM ET
Which is more startling--Don Cherry’s suit or Kelly Hrudey’s hair?!?!?!
Posted by Baroque on 01/13/07 at 11:50 PM ET
I’m not a fan of Tattoo’s.
I make a motion to let you reneg on that promise. The nucks are doing good along with Luongo, that is reward enough.
Posted by Gramps from HockeyTown on 01/13/07 at 11:54 PM ET
Don Cherry’s clothing is sort of a way-of-life for a hockey fan. Kelly Hrudey’s new hair cut, however, actually made me screech.
For anyone who’s worried about the tattoo: there’s always the miracle of henna.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/13/07 at 11:57 PM ET
I missed your earlier trivias since I was sacrificing a chicken to ensure a CGanuck blowout of Toronto. I’ve been celebratikng with a glass or two of cider myself. (Gotta love BC, even if it is damn cold right now.)
Don’t know question 1 (although I will guess Yashin)but I believe question 2 is 4’ by 6’.
Do I get more cider?
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 12:01 AM ET
Q: “What are the standard dimensions (in feet) of the opening of an NHL net?”
4’ high x 6’ Wide
Posted by Nigel on 01/14/07 at 12:01 AM ET
As for the other one...lets go with Danny Alfredsson?
Posted by Nigel on 01/14/07 at 12:04 AM ET
Unless you are Dan Cloutier, and the net is 8’ by 10’
Posted by Tapeleg from Denver, CO on 01/14/07 at 12:07 AM ET
OK, I think that Nigel is right on #1, but I clearly got in under the wire on #2.
Also, apparently drunk blogging causes typos.
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 12:10 AM ET
Seeing as we both posted at the same time I say we share the glory lol
Tapeleg: nice one
Posted by Nigel on 01/14/07 at 12:13 AM ET
ooops… did I mix it up?
apologies. I blame the keyboard…
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/14/07 at 12:15 AM ET
Nah, blame the cider.
I’m hoping for anotgher HDIC blowout, Soilers ove Phlegms. That’ll out the Canucks back in first.
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 12:19 AM ET
Damn. (Because of both the 1-1 score in Calgary and my typing.)
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 12:22 AM ET
Geezus, Al. Nice typing… I can’t believe you’re giving me a hard time about cider.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/14/07 at 12:30 AM ET
he he...Al is worring his slurds in his comments.
Posted by Baroque on 01/14/07 at 12:38 AM ET
Re typing: Dave Coulier = Dan Cloutier. Right?
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 12:38 AM ET
Dan Cloutier could be a sitcom star, the way things have been lately for him. But I think she got that one right.
Roloson looked pissed about the goal.
Posted by Tapeleg from Denver, CO on 01/14/07 at 12:44 AM ET
HDIC just reported the broadcast of the Canucks/Leafs game that was done in Italian earlier
Even in Italian, a Leafs homer sounds like a Leafs homer.
And Luongo’s parents were watching that. Pathetic.
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 12:56 AM ET
Trivia #12: Milan Hejduk?
(I’m pouring another cider whether I am right or not.)
(It took me 8 minutes to post this because I am triple spell-checking it.)
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 01:09 AM ET
Awwww...my computer has been brutal. Wasn’t able to listen to the game, but thanks for the re-cap! Nice to see the ‘nucks able to give a little spankin’ to CBC’s favorite team on HDIC!
It’s 20C here in China...beautiful sunny skies. I don’t have any fresh hockey games on disc...so I am watching the BCS Championship game instead (hey, cut me some slack...I’m American!!). But I do have my ‘nucks sweater on today and have already started on the B&C’s
Alanah...you are a blogging fool. I’m amazed at the timing of each entry and the comments. And to think...none of this is for charity!
Posted by GZ Expat on 01/14/07 at 01:13 AM ET
Copied off of Tapeleg?!?!!!! No way.
This was hockeydb.com all the way, and I challenge tepelag to claim otherwise! (If only I could type!!!!)
(Go Oilers. {This offer valid for the next 20 minutes only.})
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 01:18 AM ET
Al - You doubt her powers of Full House info, then cry when beaten like a Maple Leaf? Sad, truely sad.
Posted by Tapeleg from Denver, CO on 01/14/07 at 01:21 AM ET
Hey Expat: Glad you’ve got some kind of game to watch, so you’re forgiven for not being able to watch hockey. Glad to hear about the Canucks jersey, however. Very important.
Al: The typing is improving. Maybe you’re cider consumption has taken you to a whole new level! One more trivia question coming at 10 pm sharp so be ready to type quick!
Tapeleg: Exactly.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/14/07 at 01:29 AM ET
I was beaten only by the keyboard.
(Of course I would have been bittersweet had I truly been beaten like a Leaf.)
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 01:31 AM ET
Alanah: I know you mean 10pm sharp. (It’s okay those Growers’ folk know a thing or two.)
Damn Flames.
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 01:34 AM ET
You were beaten by the keyboard, and by me having to find my 2007 guide and record book, then find the info. You were slower than Ken Klee. You were beaten like Tie Domi in divorce court. You were… Well, good luck for the next one.
Posted by Tapeleg from Denver, CO on 01/14/07 at 01:36 AM ET
Hey no fair Alanah, you can fix your typos!
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 01:38 AM ET
Nothing in life is fair.
My blog, My rules!
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/14/07 at 01:41 AM ET
I’m thinking maybe Kelly Hrudey might have shaved his head so that no one would notice his face lift.
or
Maybe he is sick, his body looks a little swollen.
Posted by Gramps from HockeyTown on 01/14/07 at 01:53 AM ET
Twenty six (26)
Posted by Gramps from HockeyTown on 01/14/07 at 02:02 AM ET
Your blog does rule (as did VCOE), although I feel that my support is unappreciated.
Trivia #13: 22
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 02:03 AM ET
WHOO-HOO!!!! TRIVIA GOD!!!
And I only had to answer 2 questions.
Great job today, Alanah. When is the next one?
Posted by Tapeleg from Denver, CO on 01/14/07 at 02:07 AM ET
Nicely done, Tapeleg.
Sorry, Gramps.
Too slow, Al, but thanks for the compliment!
And of course you are all appreciated. Thanks for hanging out, everyone.
Good night!
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/14/07 at 02:07 AM ET
P.S. Another liveblog, Tapeleg? Soon, I promise. But no more 13-hour-deals for a while.
Posted by Alanah McGinley from British Columbia on 01/14/07 at 02:09 AM ET
Enjoy your Okanagan/Growers induced sleep.
I’m going to practice my typing.
Posted by Al from Parksville on 01/14/07 at 02:09 AM ET
As a good winner, I will share my prize beer/cider with Al. He may only be on dialup.
Posted by Tapeleg from Denver, CO on 01/14/07 at 02:11 AM ET
Quote of the night:
“I’ve been celebratikng with a glass or two of cider myself. “
LOL!!!! BEST EVER! Alanah, you kick ass!
But I still say we need to trade Cooke…
Posted by Temujin from Smithers, BC on 01/14/07 at 05:43 AM ET
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About Canucks & Beyond
Alanah McGinley has been blogging hockey since 2003, sharing opinions, rants and not-so-deep thoughts with anyone who will listen. In addition to writing Canucks & Beyond and helping manage Kukla’s Korner, Alanah is one of the founders and co-hosts of The Crazy Canucks Podcast, as featured at Canucks.com.
She has contributed pieces to FoxSports.com and the New York Times Slapshot blog, as well as other stray destinations in cyberspace.
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ha, this i have to see. you will never make it to after hours.
Posted by notsignedin on 01/13/07 at 11:51 AM ET