Wild Go Big
When the Wild are up 5-2 in the third and both Derek Boogaard and John Scott are in the lineup, who’s going to try and send a message?
According to Darcy Hordichuk via Boogaard, the answer to that is Canucks’ coach Alain Vigneault. From Russo’s Rants:
According to Boogaard, before the faceoff, Hordichuk told him that “The coach is making US fight you guys.”
Hordi just lunged at Boogaard, trying to give him no chance to setup. Not a bad idea for someone giving up half a foot. They went to the ice quickly and I’m sure Hordichuk was just fine with that.
Alexandre Bolduc then squared off with Scott. Also giving up half a foot, Bolduc willingly traded punches with the huge defenseman and wound up taking some heavy shots. The Wild broadcast reported he needed some help skating off the ice.
Tanner Glass and Shane Hnidy then fought a few minutes later.
The two teams meet again on Valentine’s Day. I’m sure it’ll be a loving affair.
David Backes vs Team Canada
David Backes, having a down year after scoring 31 goals last season, was still picked to represent the USA in Vancouver for next month’s Olympic games.
Either by coincidence, NHL strategy, or forward-thinking for the Olympics, Backes has dropped the gloves in January with Jonathan Toews, Corey Perry and Rick Nash, all playing for Team Canada.
A little Backes watch was setup in the forums. Which Olympian is next?
Missed stories
A lot has gone on since I’ve been able to make a blog post. The KHL brawl, Alexandre Burrows, some great bouts. I’ll try and catch up on those here, but there are good discussions about all in the forums.
Videos added
Byron Bitz vs Kyle Chipchura Jan 13, 2010 x2
Adam McQuaid vs Troy Bodie Jan 13, 2010 x2
Eric Godard vs Brian McGrattan Jan 13, 2010
Tanner Glass vs Shane Hnidy Jan 13, 2010
Alexandre Bolduc vs John Scott Jan 13, 2010
Darcy Hordichuk vs Derek Boogaard Jan 13, 2010
Jason Chimera vs Gregory Campbell Jan 13, 2010 x2
Some reads
Uncertainty gnaws at Laraque
Burrows affair rubs league wrong way
The Steve Ott contract issue
Downie’s future with Bolts now looking up | Tampa Bay Lightning’s Steve Downie raises his game as he tries to calm down
Taunting a blemish on the NHL
