So It's Been Awhile....

And news from the Sharks front has been pretty slow. Doug Wilson has made it clear that he will not be announcing coaching news until the new coach is signed. If we lived in Toronto the rumor mill would be abuzz, but alas the Sharks are in San Jose so not much has been hitting the press. Joel Quenneville was spotted in San Jose, but that doesn't mean too much to me other than that he is getting a look. Tony Granato is out of the running as he signed with the Avalanche the past week.

San Jose's main website has a nice look at the prospect process for draft day.

Nabby won gold at the World Championships with Team Russia, continuing his stellar year between the pipes. It's all but a guarantee he will haul home the Vezina, which I will comment on when the awards are handed out.

Other than that, the Stanley Cup Finals have been somewhat of a letdown- the Pens have been shutout in both games and need to get a move on quickly if they are going to have a shot against The Evil Empire. Detroit has looked solid (they always are solid), and will continue to be so with a lot of talent under contract for the next few years. Be sure to check out Pensblog (PIT) and Abel to Yzerman (DET) for all your hockey blogdom needs before the offseason sets in.

And if you want to talk to some fellow puck heads during the Finals, head over to NHL Fanhouse where they have a liveblog set up during each game. The technology is really cool, and I will definitely be instituting it on We Bleed Teal next season. I have been making appearances lately over there, and will be on Wednesday as well, so make sure and give it a look.

And now I leave you with a totally unrelated picture:


Go Sharks.

[Mr. Plank Edit] Sharks Hockey Analysis takes a look at some pending player signings and the like. Give it a look.

2008 Playoffs: Pick Em! Zeeee Final Round!

We're heading into the home stretch here ladies and gentleman, and from what I can tell, we have a barnburner on our hands. Will leads the pack, with Corey M. nipping at his heels and Jahiegel with an opportunity to play the underdog role and take home the trophy post. So have at it! Have your picks in by Saturday 5 PM Pacific.



Previous Rounds:
Round Three
Round Two
Round One

Drew Remenda Talks Coaching

Drew was on KNBR (glove pound to Sharks Hockey Analysis), and talked about the San Jose Sharks coaching situation. It's worth your time to check this out- unfortunately Drew is still referencing his lack of hair growth. I love the guy, but we get it- you're not Grizzly Adams. Move on.

Now that's a man I would love to see manning the bench in San Jose.


Drew's interview.

Here's the thing with Barry Melrose- aight, so he's a coach that players love to play for. Even though he's not good with the X's and O's that doesn't bother me too much, because if we have a good assistant coaching staff that point could become mute. But imagine all of the media pressure that would fall on the Sharks if the ESPN big-wig came to San Jose. Every move of the franchise would become even more magnified than it already is, and God forbid we go on a losing streak to start the year. Call on the vultures. His coaching record isn't too great either. Not the answer for me. I highly doubt he's even being considered. On a side note though, Kevin over at BMR would probably have a heart attack. Roenick (assuming he comes back) and Melrose with the same organization? Wowzerz.

Drew also touches upon our blueline. I couldn't agree more.

I also agree what he says about getting a current assistant coach to fill Ron's void. Tony Granato would be an excellent choice. Anyone have an opinion? Throw it on the grill in the comments.

[Mr. Plank Update] Eric McErlain has been doing a series over at NHL Fanhouse of Russian stars (Ovechkin, Federov) interviews with Sovetsky Sport. Nabby was today's player.

Ron Wilson Fired As Sharks Head Coach

Yup, you heard me correctly.

This comes as no surprise (to your boisterous humble narrarator), as the ultimate goal of winning a Stanley Cup (or even making an appearance for that matter) was not achieved. It seems as if Wilson's voice was falling on deaf ears in the locker room, and although he posted an excellent record in his tenure with the Sharks, it was time for a change as we touched upon earlier.

I wish Ron Wilson well in his future endeavors, and would be shocked if he is not behind the bench for another squad in 2008-2009.

[Mr. Plank Edit] Eric McErlain has a solid article over at NHL Fanhouse on the matter. Also, Sharks Hockey Analysis takes a look at who the next coach would be. I think they raise a very interesting point, as it directly conflicts with what we have experienced during Ron Wilson's tenure.

2008 Playoffs: Pick Em! Round Three

Sorry I'm a day late on this one- the Red Wings and Stars are currently playing right now which may cause some controversy amongst the ranks in terms of how legitimate this round will be- but fear not! In order to counterbalance my lack of my, well, uptodatedness, you don't have to get your picks in until SATURDAY AT 4 PM PACIFIC.

Yes, this means you can cheat, but I feel it's the only fair way to do it since this post is going up in the middle of the Stars-Wings game. Giving you an opportunity for both games to be completed is probably the fairest way to do this considering that fact. Have at it ladies and gentlemen.

Leaderboard (click to enlarge):



[Mr. Plank Edit] A big hearty handshake to We Bleed Teal Commentator Will for reminding me via email to get this going. Lord knows I'd probably be living in some gutter within two weeks if it wasn't for him.

Follow the format (and remember this round's score is multiplied by 1.75:

DET 4
DAL 1

PIT 4
PHI 2

Previous Rounds:
Round Two
Round One

On The Hot Seat: Ron Wilson

In this new addition to We Bleed Teal, a panel of rabid drunks experts will sit down and look at the future of the franchise. From players to personnel, no stone will be left unturned in our quest to add some insight into how a Cup can come to the city of San Jose.

This week's panel includes:
Mr. Plank- Head Honcho on We Bleed Teal

Caveman- Imaginary friend of Mr. Plank's

Count Chocula- Cereal God Extraordinaire

Don Cherry- Famous Canadian Broadcaster on Hockey Night In Canada

Chris Pronger- Future cast member on Broadway Musical "STOMP"

Mr. Plank: Thanks for taking time off from dealing methamphetamines to join us in our panel. Life is tough right now.
Caveman: I feel the perfect song to describe the feeling is "Until We Say Goodbye" by Joe Satriani. On one hand you're like "Ah man we lost" but on the other, you're like, "When we finally win the Cup it's going to be that much better."
Mr. Plank: I think that's a perfect segue into our first order of business- Ron Wilson. What are your feelings on his job security this offseason? I have a feeling his kids are going to be hungry come October- he's on his way out of a job.
Don Cherry: Kids nowadays.... when I was a boy growing up in Kingston, Ontario we ate cardboard for breakfast and a little mouse if we were lucky, not some of this freak show vampire cereal that's all the rage.
Count Chocula: Dude, I haven't been cool since '97, and to be fair, your suits make you look like you're struggling with your sexuality.
Chris Pronger: Excuse me here gents, but I am quite certain that the topic of discussion is the future of Ron Wilson's job with the San Jose Sharks. Digression is not what we came here for- let's all be civil and refrain from cheap shots.

Stunned Silence

Mr. Plank: Er, yeah. I guess I'll take this opportunity to say that I believe Ron Wilson is on his way out- although the three straight second round losses aren't necessarily his fault, someone is going to bite the bullet in San Jose. What better way to get this franchise back on track for Lord Stanley than a change at the helm.
Caveman: Agreed. The power play has looked stagnant under Wilson this year, and it's tough to see a team as talented as this one drop out early. Canning him may be the boost we need.
Mr. Plank: I mean just look back to earlier this year- it's been rumored Wilson didn't talk to Patrick Marleau for six months. If you're not talking to your Captain, how does that reflect on the team?
Don Cherry: I'LL TELL YA SOMETHING KIDS, WHAT YA'LL NEED IS A HARD BACKCHECKING TOUGH NOSED CANADIEN BOY WHO ISN'T AFRAID TO TAKE A HIT, AND DELIVER ONE FROM THE DEPTHS OF HELL A SHIFT LATER!!! LOOK AT WHAT HAPPENED TO MILAN AT THE END OF REGULATION IN GAME SIX!!! WHO STEPPED UP AND NIPPED THAT ONE IN THE BUTT!!!
Count Chocula: Did you eat a whole bag of coke before you came in here? I'm sitting right next to you dude.
Chris Pronger: Frankly, I don't see the upside to general goonery. Respond in a manner that punishes them on the scoreboard, not with your fists, elbows, and/or feet.
Count Chocula: Aight man, cut the crap. We all know you....

Pronger immediately elbows the Count in the head, and he goes down

Caveman: Holy kamolie. If this wasn't an acid induced dream I'd say Stompy over here had lost his mind.
Mr. Plank: I think Pronger watched "Happy Feet" with his kids one too many times.
Chris Pronger: HOOOOOOOOOO WAAAAAAAAAAAAA (Pronger begins to stomp around like a T-Rex)
Mr. Plank: This could get ugly really quick, let's wrap it up. Wilson, in or out? I say out. Not his fault, but there's no way changes aren't being made here. Granted the team showed some heart in games 4-6, but we dropped the first three of the series. Someone has to take the fall.
Caveman: He's done.
Don Cherry: I'LL TELL YA ONE THING...
Everyone: (muttering) Oh Lord
Don Cherry: WHEN I WAS THE COACH OF THE BOSTON BRUINS AND WON THE JACK ADAMS BACK IN THE 70'S, I WOULDN'T LET ANY OF MY GUYS EAT, SLEEP, OR DRINK ANYTHING BUT HOCKEY DURING THE PLAYOFFS! WE WERE TOUGH AS NAILS! IN FACT, I EVEN REMEMBER EATING SOME NAILS DURING OUR PLAYOFF RUNS!!! THE PLAYERS WIVES WERE REGULATED TO CAGES AND ALLOWED OUT ONLY IF COOKING FOR OUR TEAM OR PERFORMING CERTAIN, UM, ACTS, THAT WOULD RISE, ER, UP, ER, OUR SPIRITS IF YOU IF YOU WILL. THEY'VE GOT NO PLACE AT HOCKEY GAMES!!!
Count Chocula: (lying on the ground) Which would justify my hypothesis that you are completely devoid of any sense, and that those nails you unfortunately consumed may have been unable to leave your internal organs, blocking your rectum, thereby causing you extreme discomfort. Due to this, you have developed a penchant for yelling loudly and are unable to discern the difference between your opinion and reality.

Mr. Plank: For the record, I really enjoy Don Cherry and his comments on Hockey Night In Canada.

Don Cherry: WELL MR. CHOCULA, AT LEAST I'M NOT SOME FREAK SHOW VAMPIRE WHO ENJOYS THE COMPANY OF OTHER MEN WHEN THE COLD ONTARIAN NIGHTS SET IN BUDDY.
Chris Pronger: (who is currently now foaming at the mouth) GAGAGAGA!!!
Count Chocula: Huh? Whatever Don, I'm not the one who says, "Look at that beautiful kid" whenever a player's picture comes up on Hockey Night. And Pronger- "GAGAGA"??? It seems as if Stompy over here may have eaten some nails as well. How'd it feel to be sitting in the penalty box while your season ended buddyroo?

Pronger lives up to everyone's expectations and begins to stomp Chocula

Caveman: Where's Ryan Kesler when you need him?

Mr. Plank: Well that's going to do it for tonight folks. The Sharks season is done, and some changes are expected after a third-straight second round loss. Fun fact that's really not fun at all: No team has won more playoff games since 2004 than the Sharks- unfortunately no team has lost more as well. In my opinion, Ron has outstayed his welcome in San Jose. Is it solely his fault? Not in the least. But a change at the top just might be what the doctor ordered. Chime in with your opinions in the comments section. We'll be back later to discuss other orders of business.


[Editor's Note] All depictions of players and persons were published for creative purposes only. This conversation did not actually occur, although it would be stellar theater if it did.

Forecast For The Next Week Or So

Sharks Gameday: Two More I Implore!

Game five was unreal. The Sharks showed some true grit coming back in the third, and after Brian Campbell's goal it seemed as if it was only a matter of time until we took the lead. The Sharks flow in that period was comparable to your last ovulation. It was heavy man.

Joe Pavelski. Count it. The guy must have some sort of frequent flyer mile situation going on. He was hell bent on getting the Sharks on that plane to Dallas.

So what does this all mean? For the first time since Tuesday we have a series on our hands. The last five games don't matter. Win two and advance. Lose and you're done. Pretty basic stuff here.

Reasonable Reasons The Sharks Could Take It Back To The Tank
1) Momentum. The Dallas Stars could be in their own heads right now knowing that they have let San Jose back into the series.
2) Jeremy Roenick is unable to let the Sharks lose (kind of a reach, but I'm convinced he has some sort of superhuman powers).
3) Big Joe and Brian Campbell have played better as the games have gone on.
4) Marty Turco has been playing very well this postseason, but he is a human being, and human beings are blessed with a certain thing called "emotion." Turco has been known to let this gift get the better of him from time to time. Being twenty minutes away from advancing to the Conference Finals and not getting the job done could have his panties in a little bunch. If he lets in a weak goal early, watch out. Note To Sharks: If the PK is working well, don't be afraid to run him and take a penalty. Whether or not it's an effective strategy, it sure as hell would make me happy on the couch.
5) Morrow had a hat trick but only one goal ended up in the final boxscore. Ouch. Doesn't seem like the math is in the big guys favor. Toronto > Morrow.
6) Ron Wilson's children need food. He's coaching for his job.
7) Two straight game seven's at HP seem too good to pass up.
8) The Law of 33 makes sweet love to my eardrums.
9) Winning two games in a row is not the most ridiculous thing in the world. I'm sure that's been done before.
10) This list needs ten reasons.
11) That's why I go and screw it up like this.
12) Now
13) I'm just
14) being annoying.
15) It's late. Give me a break.


As I said before, anything can happen.

Prediction: Sharks win. Period.


Go Sharks.

Sharks Gameday: Three More

Game five at home is just what the doctor ordered. The funny thing about this series is that as poorly as we've played for stretches at a time, the games have been relatively close. Two overtime games and the meltdown in game two have led us to where we stand now, which frankly makes me a believer that we can win tonight and send it back to Dallas. Reeling off three in a row = Damn near impossible BUT it can be done, and in case you guys haven't heard the Law of 33's, heres what it shakes down to.

Only two teams in the history of the NHL have come back from a 3-0 deficit to win the series. The Maple Leafs in 1942, and the New York Islanders in 1975. 33 years separate those two occurrences, and seeing as it is the year 2008, a team is due to come back from a 3-0 hole.

Just remember that anything can happen.

Prediction: Sharks win. Period.


Go Sharks.

Game Four Recap

Tonight was a good night- the Sharks got a win and kept the series alive heading back to San Jose. I was pretty impressed with how the boys men played tonight. With their backs against the wall we showed up and played a tight game. Everyone was skating hard and you could tell we were a hungry team.

Brian Campbell is beginning to play better and better as the playoffs have progressed. Joe Thornton also began to flash some signs of being alive on the ice out there. It was good to see him laying on the body instead of floating around on the perimeter. I know that Joe's game doesn't rely heavily on laying on the body, but when he does step up physically the Sharks as a whole seem to respond. Not saying he's going to be delivering humongous hits, but it's a treat to see him step into a player instead of flicking his stick around hoping to knock the puck loose.

And what about Patrick Marleau. He's been rocking it shorthanded like Rick Allen of Def Leppard.


Nabby has also stepped it up in the last two games. His positioning has been stellar.


Other than The Gooch's centering pass to put the Stars up 1-0 (honestly that was terrible- my friend made a comment during the game that he should be credited with an assist) we played a good game. The PK began to flash signs of it's regular season self, and we began to get some bounces. Dallas rang some shots off the crossbar that didn't go, and we've finally seemed to be able to beat the trap in the neutral zone.

The Tank will be rocking Friday night. Let's see if those "Why Not Us?" t-shirts I caught a glimpse of during intermission pay off big dividends down the road. Three more to go. The long and winding road got a little bit shorter.


Go Sharks.