So I missed making my picks for the second round. Friggin' Bettman and his idea to play the last game of the first round and then start the second round less than 24 hours later. What was his rush? He has never been in a hurry to get through the playoffs before, why start now? I mean, game seven of the Sharks/Wings series is Wednesday and the first game of the Conference final is Sunday. I can't wait for the annual ritual of booing Bettman when he brings out the Stanley Cup. I love that. That is my favorite part of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Really.
Another reason why I missed the second round is McKenna had her 9th birthday and she had a big party planned so I had to try to juggle work and her party so I really had no time to get to this. Plus, posting your picks after the round starts is a bit douchey. So I just passed.
How were my stats from the first round? Well let me tell you. I went six out of the 8 series right so I was right on target. I really think the Kings could have won that series but the pucks just did not bounce their way. Oh well, I will get it right this round. Believe it.
WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
Vancouver Canucks (1) vs. San Jose Sharks (2)
Had I picked in the second round I would have picked, reluctantly the Canuckleheads. I know TT vetran Don Granato is scouting for this team and that they have a ton of talent but I just can't get behind this team. They are those west coast granola eating hippies with those idiots who wear those Green Leotards to the games. I hate those guys. Really, you pay huge bucks on Stanley Cup Playoff tickets to watch a game through green fabric. You suck and so does your team. The Sedin sisters have yet to show up and I don't think they will in the Conference Final or, god forbid they get there, the Stanley Cup Final.
That said, I kind of hate to get behind one of these southern teams in a market where they like hockey, but not really. Since it is the only show in town, at least until the Minnesota viqueens move there and become the San Jose Orca's, so they get behind them. The still are not the most educated hockey fans. Their team on the other hand is skilled and tough as nails. I like Thornton and Pavelensikeynov, or whatever his name is. I spent some time in San Jose covering the Oilers back in 2006. Love the town. Great city. The rink is nice also. So therefore I will pick the lesser of two evils, Sorry Donnie I just can't do it. I am going to take the Sharks in 6.
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
Boston Bruins (3) vs. Tampa Bay Lightning (8)
Wow, can you believe it? Tampa Bay in the final. They just kicked the holy living crap out of the Capitals. Ovetchkin could not even will his team to ONE FREAKING GAME. Probably cost me some money in the CBC hockey playoff pool. Stupid Capitals. Dwayne Roloson, former Edmonton Oiler, and a TT veteran has been standing on his head. He has been playing amazing. Probably inspired by Aaron Rodgers and the WORLD CHAMPION GREEN BAY PACKERS. If you are a regular here at TundraTalk you know that Roli is a HUGE Packer fan. I used to record the Packer games for him on DVD on the days that the Oilers played on Sunday so he could watch it on the plane in between tilts. Tampa also has huge talent on their roster. St. Louis, Lecavalier, Stamkos, the list goes on and on. They also have some grit and right now it looks as if they have the killer instinct. BUT, and this is a huge BUT. They have to face the Boston Bruins. Boston has been my favorite to win it all this year and they definitely have their work cut out for them in this series. Boston is tough, has skill, and also has a goalie that is playing out of his ass. Tim Thomas in the last series played as if he was going to whip Philly himself and the other guys on the ice were just his extras. He played awesome.
So what do I see for the Conference Final? Contrary to popular belief I see lots of scoring. I think a few of these games could get out of hand. This is going to be ultra physical with Boston winning most of the battles in deep and along the boards. I think Tampa has the edge on skill, but after a game or two of getting beat up by Chara they will not be able to finish. I love Roloson so I would not be surprised if he does not have a great series and steal it but Tampa also has against it my bias as a southern team. So I think this one will go the distance but Boston just is too tough,Boston in 7.
McKenna Rules
Well there you have it. My picks for the third round. Enjoy, call your bookie, and bet the house.
Check this picture of McKenna at flag football. She is definitely on the right team.
So as I am watching the NHL Playoffs last night, Chicago vs. the Canuckleheads, I was surprised to see TundraTalk veteran Donnie Granato on my Tee Vee. He is the guy on the left standing up just minding his own bidness. They stayed on the shot for a while and I was wondering what was going on. Then the guys in the yellow jackets came down and hauled some of the Chicago faithful out of the building. Nice job Donnie. Riling up the locals. At press time I am still waiting for a quote from Don to let us know just exactly what happened in the Madhouse last night. Wait, there it is. Donnie says that some of the fans in the seats below turned around and said some not so nice things in very colorful language to Mike Gillis' assistants. Thus, the security team was summoned. I have also let Donnie know that if he needs some extra security to show up and talk into a microphone in my sleeve just to let the people of Chicago know that this kind of behavior is unacceptable, that I am available and willing. I got Donnie's back.
Ahhh, I remember the first time I was on TSN. I remember it almost like it was yesterday. I think it went a little something like THIS. Yup, being a multimedia superstar like myself is tough sometimes. The pressure to always perform, the media attention, oh, and not to mention, the papparazzi. Hate those guys.
I also remember the first time I was in Sports Illustrated. Man the memories. HAVE A LOOK HERE. Page 78, Packers Super Bowl commemorative edition. What a day that was. That is me on the left in the black Starter touque holding the camera up high. I look good. Anyway, Donnie also made the TSN sportscenter broadcast last night. They mentioned that the Canuck BRASS were being harassed by the Chicago locals. Wow, I did not know Donnie is now brass. Sweet. Have a look at the visuals below to see Don take care of bidness on the big screen.
Okay, I know it has been a long fricking time. You know when life just overtakes you and you just feel like you have way too much to do? Well that was not me, I just have been very lazy and instead of taking care of you, TUNDRATALK NATION, I was just doing my thing. Yeah I know I suck. But really, here I am. Back and better than ever. Just in time for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. I need to be here for you during this time of year so you can take my advice and call your bookie and make your bank for the next year. Really, if that is all I am good for, that is pretty damn good. I make you money. Word, as the kids say.
Before I get to that, I have a little bit of business to take care of. The Entourage search, which I started around two years ago has finally come to an end. I know some of you have been waiting with baited breath and are probably a bit pissed it has taken so long. Well, you can just chill out. Putting together a posse is not something you do overnight. You can't just throw a group of dudes together without doing your due diligence or it could really backfire in your face. Just look what happened to McCain when he added that dim bulb Palin to his campaign. Boom.
So here he is the last member of the posse. Robby DuPuis. Congrats Robby. On getting into the posse AND having a kid last week. Evi Marie DuPuis was born last week and I just want to ask Robby, are you sleeping much? By the way, your life is over. Start studying up on the Disney Princesses and Barbie. You are done like dinner. Feel free to send him a line and congratulate him.
Robby is a dude, with whom I first encountered at the Mighty Minot State University. He was, and still is, one of the finest radio broadcasters to have ever lived. Well, short of Howard Stern and Me. We collaborated on many a project and took the broadcast world by storm. In fact we worked on so many classic advertisements that they talked about waiving the age requirement on the Advertisement Hall Of Fame to put us in immediately. But, us, being the completely humble and modest, told them no. I mean the talent and creativity was off the charts. Just CLICK HERE and have a look at the Robby and Chris Connection. Really, who can ever forget the great Dakota Farms ad? I know I can't. Or how about the abstract beauty of the Music Syndicate Ad? Amazing.
But alas, all good things must come to an end. There was a major tremor in the Farce. This tremor shook the world. Robby moved on to Austin Texas to chase ambulances and I moved to Dead Moines to also chase ambulances. The end of an era. The ad world mourned. Robby and I kept in touch but it just wasn't the same.
Until NOW. Now Robby joins the greatest Entourage in the world and the magic will happen again. Well, at least as soon as I win the lottery or my screenplay gets picked up. It will happen. Trust me. Robby now lives in Minneapple and is married with a kid. He still chases ambulances, but I know, in the back of his mind, he longs for the days of thinking up stupid shit so some jag off in a suit can sell a product. I know, that if he had the chance to once again do a commercial for a dry cleaner store that the client INSISTED that his 4 kids (and their dog) be in and it has to be 'different'. He would jump at the opportunity. I just know it. Until then my posse will have to do.
Robby, let us know how you feel...
I was vacuuming the carpet... er, polishing my '67 GTO when I got the life-changing call that I was the final member to be inducted into the TT Entourage. I had to put down my PBR and crack open another to celebrate and regain my composure.
I'm not sure how I've come to receive this high honor, but I assume it has something to do with my willingness to hide Chris' past illegal discretions from the authorities. Of course as a member of the Entourage, that privilege extends to my fellow Entouragers.
As a member of the Entourage I reserve the right to give any of my fellow members a hard time about anything I see fit (especially being a viqueens fan), while making sure we're having just enough fun to stay out of serious legal trouble weather it be over-the-top questionable behavior or just good clean fun.
That's all I have to say. If you don't like it, screw you.
Peace,
Rob (Robby) DuPuis
Thanks Robby, nice to hear from you. Now for those of you in this great posse. The waiting is over. It is time to start working. Make this happen. I am doing all in my power to get us all together for an event that will end all events. Being in this group is not just a title. It is work. It is honor. It is beer. For those of you not in the group, it is okay. You still are a member of TundraTalk Nation. Not an easy group to be in. TT Nation is an elite group of individuals who walk the walk and talk the talk. Now, get it done.
NEXT:
The Stanley Cup Playoff picks...
Okay, now the Preacher sent me an email this morning with his picks, which are as usual, lousy. Why do you care? Well, it was the impetus (I know big word) to get me off my ass and get a post up on TundraTalk. So I guess Preacher is good for something. Without further blabbering on by me I will get right to it. Sorry about the italics, I cannot seem to get them to stop.
EASTERN CONFERENCE PLAYOFFS
Washington Captials (1) vs. New York Rangers (8)
Although the Rangers have tended to give the Caps fits I am going to take Ovetchkin and the boys on this one because they have overcome a lot this year to get where they are now. I am thinking this is the year that Ovetchkin does not disappear and has a decent playoffs. Sorry Hauser, Caps in 6.
Philidelphia Flyers (2) vs. Buffalo Sabres (7)
I am not a Pronger guy. Hate him. He is a big time douchebag. Almost to the level of Douchmidity that Brent Favre has. Philly is tough though. I would love to see the Sabres pull this one out of a hat and get it done for Randy Hawke. I know that dude is still reeling after the crap that was pulled by DallASS back in the day. I just don't think they Sabres have it in them. I want them to, I just don't think it is there. I hope I am wrong...Philly in 7.
Boston Bruins (3) vs. Montreal Canadiens (6)
Screw Montreal. Boston in 4.
Pittsburgh Penguins (4) vs. Tampa Bay Lightning (5)
Tampa has a lot of talent on that team. Loaded. BUT is their goal tending enough to push them through? Also can the pretty boy scorers on the Bolts survive the pounding the boys from Pitt are gonna give them? I think not. I know it is tough to pick the Pens without Sidney, but I am gonna. Pittsburgh in 6.
WESTERN CONFERENCE PLAYOFFS
Vancouver Canucks (1) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (8)
This is the series everyone wants to see. The Sedin sisters versus the reigning champs. We all know that the sisters disappear in the playoffs. They have always seemed soft. Like they go and play with their Barbies right after every game. I hate those guys. BUT the Hawks barely even got into the dance. BUT they also seem to have the Canuckleheads number in the playoffs. Will this be the year they get over the hump? Donnie Granato thinks so. He is scouting for them this year and it seems to be working since they are the Presidents Trophy winners. I hate to pick against Donnie, EVER. So I won't. This pains me to do this, but, Canucks in 6. I feel like I just put on a skirt or something.
San Jose Sharks (2) vs. Los Angeles Kings (7)
The Sharks are another of those teams that just have it tough in the playoffs. They have tons of skill and grit but they seem to leave it in the locker room during the post season. The Kings on the other hand have lost two of their best players, their goaltending is iffy, and they play in Los Angeles. BUT they have Matt Greene a former Gambler and Fighting Sioux on their team. Jarret Stoll, a TundraTalk Podcast vetran is on this squad. Smytty, of the famous Ugly Jacket Scandal is also on the Kings. You know what, I cannot go against a Gambler. Kings in 7.
Detroit Red Wings (3) vs. Phoenix Coyotes (6)
You know how much I hate the Wings. The test is do I hate the Wings more than I hate the whole situation in Phoenix. Bettman the tool still is allowing that whole fiasco in PHX to carry on. That team needs to move north, and move fast. I hate that they can hold this team hostage for 35 fans in Arizona when it could move north and have a full building every night. Screw Phoenix. Oh this hurts. Wings in 4.
Anaheim Mighty Ducks (4) vs. Nashville Predators (5)
This sucks. I hate both these teams. Is there a way they both could be eliminated? I wish. Nashville in 6.
Well there you have it. Call your bookie. Bet the house. Money in the bank.
Now if you want to see what losing picks look like here are the Preacherman's...
Chicago – Vancooter
With players like former Waterloo Blackhawk Andrew Alberts, Omaha Lancer Keith
Ballard, Michigan god Jeff Tambellini, GB Gambler Vic Oreskovick, the Sedin
sisters, and a good goalie, Vancooter is a quite talented team. Too bad they
drew defending Cup champs. Even without Adam Burish and Buff, the Hawks still
have the greatest Fighting Sioux ever in Jonathan Toews. They had a scare
almost missing the playoffs but they are peaking at the right time. They are
still the champs and know how to win.
Hawks in 6
Kings – Sharks
To borrow a DX catch phrase ... Hey Kings, I have two words for ya … Joe
Pavelski. Sorry Davis and Tree, you don’t have a chance.
Sharks in 4
Rangers – Caps
Kinda like the above series. The Rangers suck and hopefully Derek Stephan gets
traded to a better team. Alexander the Great will conquer New York.
Caps in 4
Sabres – Philly
I think this is going to be a great series. Both teams have players that know
what it takes to win the cup, do what it takes to win the cup, and been
there/done that. I would love to see the Sabres win but Philly has a bit more
grit.
Philly in 7
Nashville – Anaheim
To be honest with you, I haven’t seen either of these teams all season. Totally
clueless.
Anaheim in 6
Habs – Boston
I love seeing the Habs in the playoffs. The have great talent especially in
Mike Cammalleri. But they ran in a better team in Boston and an even better
goalie in Tim Thomas. If Thomas were in net for team USA, they would have won
the gold in the Olympics.
Boston in 5
Tampa Bay – Penguins
Teams from Florida don’t belong in hockey playoffs, go away. Even without God’s
gift to hockey, Sidney Crosby, the Pens wont have much of a challenge. Way too
talented.
Penguins in 5
Phoenix – Detroit
Seriously? Didn’t they move to Vegas yet? Don’t rush back Zetterberg, rest
until next series. Hopefully Bertuzzi pounds that little punk Turris into
nothingness.ONLY 16 MORE GAMES UNTIL THE STANLEY CUP COMES BACK HOME TO
DETROIT!!!
Yes that is correct, it is time to pick who I think will win the Stanley Cup Playoffs. I was 50% last round. Not great by my standards. In fact I have not been that great at all this year. I was 50% in every round. Not good at all. I need to get back to work on my statistical ANALysis of the NHL and how much I know. No, really I just need to stop picking who I want to win and start picking who WILL win. I picked too much with my heart this year.
Anyway, for the finals I will let you know that I am again going to pick with my heart. In fact as I sit here I am listening to one of my Favorite bands of all time, Nobody's Children, and they are inspiring me to pick not with who probably has the momentum, but to pick with the team that I think deserves it and needs it more.
Anyway, on a related note, the Children are getting back together for a gig in Minot next summer and I am stoked. I can't wait to see if Todd Holdman can still kill the bass, if Micah Scott can still shred, oh and if Adam G can still pound the skins. Check this link to find out more. Oh and here is the music video I did for them back in the day...
I know that Donnie Granato said that the Hawks just did not have the depth in goalie to take it all, and I have been picking against that all the way to where we are now. So I have put in a call to Don to see if he would revise his stance or if he is now on the Hawks and picking them to win. Please wait here while I give him a call.
I just got off the phone with Don and he told me that the two things he was worried about for the Hawks in the post season was Goaltending and the playoff grit. They have answered the bell on both accounts. He said that grit is where the Hawks have had the edge in all series so far but in this round it is gonna be the key because both teams have some much grit right now the ice will be leveled on this count.
He also says that the match up between Byfuglien and Pronger is gonna be the key in this series because if Dustin can get to Pronger it will go towards the Hawks. If Pronger can keep up with the kid the Flyers will be okay but if Dustin can get Chris into the red zone advantage Hawks. He says that Niemi has answered the bell as far as his goaltending goes so he does not even question that. Donnie also said that the city of Chicago is buzzing and he will be at the games this weekend and can't wait to see how this will turn out. He thinks this is a series that is gonna be great because of the grit involved. I agree.
My observation is that Niemi looked a bit rough in the first rounds but he has looked awesome of late and the goal scorers on the Hawks have picked their game up. Guys like Kane, Seabrook, and Sharp were a bit slow coming out of the gate but have gotten better as the playoffs have gone along. J Toews is a beast. Leading the playoffs in scoring and leading his team to the promised land. Might I add he is a former UND Fighting Sioux. Oh and as far as I am concerned they will always be the Fighting Sioux in my book. They can try to change the name but it will never change in the minds of the fans. Byfuglien is a guy who plays the way I would play, well, if I could actually skate worth a damn. He hits everything that moves, scores, and looks like he is having fun while doing it.
As for Philly, as I said earlier, they are team with huge grit. The Hawks could get under the skin of the Sedin sisters and Joe Thornton easy. Those guys need to add grit to their game. The Flyers have Richards, Briere, and my boy Ian Laperriere. As for their goaltending, again as I said in the last round, I keep waiting for him to crash to earth, but he hasn't. Donnie thinks he won't. He also said that the Hawks had Leighton in their system for a while and when he was in the AHL he owned it and knew that it would be that way when he got the chance in the NHL. This is gonna be a great series.
My prediction is that Dustin is gonna make Pronger very angry and Pronger will take a bad penalty that will cost him a game and the Flyers the series. I am taking the Blackhawks in 6. Read it and weep. One bonus to the Hawks winning the cup is a former Gambler will finally get his name on the cup. Adam Burish used to play for the finest team in the USHL the Green Bay Gamblers. Get on it.
There you have it. Call your bookies.
NEXT:
Our next member of the TundraTalk Entourage is none other than the man himself, Cory Blashill. Cory has been in the NHL trenches now for the past few months slogging from airport to airport bringing you all your inside look at what the players are thinking from game to game for Rogers Sportsnet. Thank you Cory for bringing this service to us every year. Oh, also did I mention he also does a helluva lot of drinking as well? Well he does. He is a pro at both of his spring endeavors, drinking and following the Stanley Cup to its final resting place for the year.
As far as I am concerned this guy could have his own Entourage if he wanted to, but he doesn't and that is why he made mine. Cory is also the first Canadian picked to be in this illustrious Entourage. He is a fixer as you would say in the biz. You have a problem, he fixes it. Whether it be you need a bottle for some mixer or you need the hookup to get tickets to the game. Cory knows everyone and everyone knows Cory. Cory is extremely loyal and is one of those guys you want on your side when the going gets tough. I am extremely proud to have him in my posse.
Cory is also a bit of a rebel. A guy who is not afraid to call it like he sees it. I cannot tell you how many times he has called me a jackass. Wait, everyone calls me a jackass. Cory calls me a Jagoff. Cory is also the guy who took the picture of the Ugly Jacket. He took huge heat for that moment in TundraTalk history. Huge heat. He was kicked off the Oilers team charter. His boss was called, as was mine, and he stood tall thru it all. He will not be intimidated. Not at all.
Cory is also the guy who did the great video for me when I got my citizenship to Canada. That was an awesome thing to do. I was really proud that day to have him in attendance at that ceremony. He took time out of his schedule to put that together for me. Killer Job. Here is a link to the video of you want to watch it.
Cory took some time last week out of his busy schedule covering the Stanley Cup to share his feelings on being selected to this posse. I guess you could say he won his own Stanley Cup by being selected to this posse...
As I received at my hotel my letter of acceptance I had to sit down and take a big breath. You might be thinking that I was so to touched by the honor. But I actually had to stop myself from punching Nick Kypreos in the chicklets due to the fact Hauser was picked first, then Nordic Man was 2, with Weiser being selected 3rd. How does a guy with my resume get picked after those guys? That is so weak.
I am now going to play the nationality card. You always draft a Canadian first. We take care off business. When it comes to the Entourage you need a good cop and a bad cop. Guess what I was selected for. Do the math donkey. Don't worry crew I got ya back.
Canadians always come in to clean up the mess!!!I am a one man wolf pack that now has 5 new wolves in my pack. Run free a wild my friends and stay thirsty.
I'm out
C
Cory, well done my friend. I will tell you why you were picked later in the draft. Drama. Pick Cory first, NO DRAMA, pick Cory middle DRAMA. Just remember Cory you and Marty are THE foundation of this Entourage and will be the mainstays. Well, we have two more guys to pick. One for the main crew and one more alternate. Who will it be? Stay tuned for the next 30 or so years and you may find out. NOW HAVE A GREAT LONG WEEKEND AND GET BACK TO WORK!!!
Okay, first off today I need to give a shout out to my main man Marty Frey. Marty's birthday is today and you all should drop him a line at marty.frey@nbc.com. He would love that. Marty is a member of the Entourage that will never be announced and is the hook up for everything hollywood. Green Bay Born, Hollywood living, kick your ass in a heart beat for badmouthing the Pack Marty Frey.
He told me he will be tipping a few of his new favorite beers tonight. He also told me that today is the first time in 10 years of living in hollyweird, wow, has it been 10 years? Anyway, the first time he has EVER seen clouds or rain in May. Well just consider that a gift from all of us who actually see snow in the winter up north. Cool. Happy Birthday homie. Have a great day.
NEXT: Now, I know the third round started yesterday and Chicago and Philly are both up a game in their series. Who cares, still does not change my picks. As long as I am giving out shout outs, I would be remiss not to mention the man, the myth the legend, Cory Blashill who has been trekking all across this country following the road to the Stanley Cup. He is currently in Philly for the East Final and if you want to send him your love. Drop him a note and tell him he is doing a hell of a job at blashill@rogers.blackberry.net. Fill his blackberry up. Give him something to read on those lonely nights at the bars after the games. He would love that. Keep it up Cory. I loved the video of the Wings fan giving Gene Principe shit for bringing out the broom. That was awesome.
Here are my picks..
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINAL
PHILADELPHIA FLYERS (6) vs MONTREAL CANADIENS (8)
Now, I have been picking against the Canadiens for three rounds now. You would think I have learned my lesson. Kinda. I think they are not good enough to beat either team out west and I think that they are not the world beaters that every rioting Canadien fan thinks that they are. In fact I loved the Philly fans giving them the business singing their song in the rink on Sunday. That was AWESOME. But, Philly has a BACKUP FREAKING GOALTENDER. One of these days he is going to fall to earth and I think it will be soon. I hate Montreal but I am taking them in 6.
WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL
SAN JOSE SHARKS (1) vs CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS (2)
Back to my 'NEVER ROOT FOR A SOUTHERN TEAM' rule. Screw the Sharks and their stupid Shark Tank. I know that Donnie Granato said that he did not think that they could go deep into the playoffs because of their goaltending but I am going to disagree with Don this time and take the Blackhawks in 7. San Jose cannot go to the final because whoever does from the west will win the Cup. I do not want some other lily livered, stupid ass team from the south winning the Cup. Give it to Kane, Toews, and the Hawks. Love it.
NEXT: I found this video in my personal archive and I thought I would share it. It is a line brawl from the Gamblers versus Suck City Mousketeers back in around 1997. I think. I did not shoot this video but I sure as hell kept the tape. Classic Gambler Line brawl. I want you all to notice that Chad Stauffacher, the Captain (21), started this fight on the bench. He sure as hell did not end the brawl there. Loved to watch Chad stir the shit.
I gots two things for ya today. First my picks for the second round of the NHL playoffs. As you probably already know, or have already called me an idiot for, my picks for the first round were a bit off. I picked the Avs to beat the Sharks. Which I was looking pretty good for a while but that young team just could not handle the pressure. I also picked the Kings, which also looked good for a while, no go for the same reason. A person can only pick so many upsets in one round and I just went too overboard on the upsets. Montreal also rose up and beat back Ovectchkin and the Caps. Who saw that coming? NOvetchkin was non existent. Jerk. Oh and then there was the Sabres. Dammit.
Oh well, a person has to move on and not dwell on their mistakes. I won't so here are my picks for the second round....
WESTERN CONFERENCE
San Jose Sharks (1) vs. Detroit Red Wings (6)
Again, I am put in this dilemma. Stupid southern team versus the Godless Red Wings. I made a deal with the devil in the first round, but I cannot do it again. Screw Trev, Preacherman and the Red Wings. I hope for a lot of injuries and embarrassment in this series. I know that if the Sharks get past the Wings in this round they have NO chance in the final. None. Sharks in 7.
Chicago Blackhawks (2) vs. Vancouver Canucks (3) Vancouver fans are some of the most arrogant fans around. Arrogant for fans who have never won ANYTHING. They live out on the stupid west coast with their inflated rents and stupid sushi on every corner. Tofu lovin, birkenstock wearing, flannel flying, my apartment is no bigger than your bathroom but costs me 3000 bucks a month, be in debt for the olympics for ever, green suit wearing jagoffs. Hate those guys. The Vancouver Canucks remind me of a soccer team. Lots of europeans, lots of whining and diving, and rarely, if EVER, scoring. A good reason for a nap. BORING.
The only problem is that Donny Granato thinks that the Hawks do not have the depth in goaltending to go the distance. They definitely have the scoring power they just need their goalie to steal a few games for them. Whoever that is on this night. I mean really, Luongo is not the answer either. Gotta go with the Hawks on this one. Blackhawks in 6.
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Pittsburgh Penguins(4) vs. Montreal Canadiens (8)
Sid the kid versus the Montreal Soccer team. Montreal fans are a lot like Canuck fans, except their team has actually won something. Just not in this century. I will give Halak his due. He played great. It is just that they started comparing the kid to Patty Roy. That will be his downfall. Being compared to the greatest goaler of all time is just too much to handle, especially in Montreal. Those fans are CRAZY. The Penguins have been there before and know how to win.Pittsburgh in 5.
Boston Bruins (6) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (7)
I picked the Bullies in the first round because I just had a feeling. That, like the gas I got from eating bratwurst last night, has passed. I love Ian Laperriere and how he plays the game but I hate Chris Pronger more. Screw Chris Pronger.Boston in 7. There you have it. I promise to be better in the second round. But, again, if you wager on what I have picked here. It is on you to listen to a blowhard like me.
NEXT: As you all know there is no love lost with some of the News Directors that I have served under in my career. I have found that to be a ND most of the time they are souless, heartless, SOB's that care about nothing but being a bully and stroking their own ego. They are kind of like mall cops, except with less power.
Case and point, Chris Duncan. News Director during my stint at the A Channel in Edmonton. Man that guy, in my humble opinion, sucked. His trademark was to call you into his office by saying to you - "Hey Trev, got a sec?" As if you are going to say no. You knew that if you heard that in your day time routine your day would suck.
Another great thing about this genius was that when he got mad he turned beet red. Loved making this guy turn red. Saw it several times. Actually saw it a lot during the strike. Whenever we got over on him and his band of scabs and goons he turned red. The best time I saw the red was my last day.
Long story even longer, I gave my two weeks. He was on vacation for the first week of that two weeks. On the Monday that he came back I suspected that he would have me work the day out and then, in his typical dick move, he would send me home for the rest of the week. He was so predictable. I was ready for it so I had already taken all my stuff home earlier in the day so as to avoid the whole 'shit in a box walk of shame' routine that he liked to do. I was off around 5ish and as it was in Edmonton if you did not leave the downtown before 4pm, you did not get home until 6. We got to drive our company rigs home so I headed for the barn. Around 4:50 or so as I was rounding the back stretch to my house the radio goes off.
Greg Donnelly, the AE, was calling me back to the station. I explained that it would take me around 45 minutes to get back into the downtown core and it would cost overtime and could it wait until tomorrow. All the while knowing what was happening. Greg explained that CD wanted to talk to me. I again explained how far away I was and how long it would take. CD got on the radio and explained to me that "I am still your boss so come back to the station." I knew that the red headed volcano was about to erupt.
I drove back and was met in the news room by CD's flunkie John Cuccaro (pictured on the left being annoyed by me and my bullhorn). I asked for a Union rep and they complained but complied because that is part of why we went on strike. Plus I just wanted someone else to be there when the red headed moron blew. I went in to his office and he began to reprimand me for arguing with John last week. I told him I did not argue with John, he argued with me. It was over a photo radar ticket that I had gotten a while back that I was going to fight and get reduced. Their thinking was that I was just going to quit and not pay the ticket so they wanted to take it out of my check. I told them no that I was going to fight it. They said why? I said because I do not trust them. BLAMMO, mount dickhead just turned red. It was awesome. He then informed me that I would be relieved of duty. I said "Great! I can start my new job a week early and get paid by two companies." He did not like that either.
CD then informed me that I would not be riding in any news vehicles home tonight. Uh, no duh, dipshit. I informed him that I would not be riding in any company vehicles. He then put his hands on his desk and got real red, like Ferrari red, and yelled that I would not be getting a ride from any news guys home and in fact that they had booked me a cab. I again, calmly with a big smile informed him that I would not be getting a ride home from any company employees that my wife was on her way to pick me up. That pissed him off even more. He told his puppy dog Cuccaro to escort me out of the building and that was it.
By the way, I went in to fight the ticket a few months later, because I am a man of my word and when I say I am going to do something, I do it, and the ticket was paid. The day after I was asked to leave the station. Losers.
Good story but not the best "I quit" story from the A. Drew B is legend for how he quit the station. He put a yellow post it note on CD's door. That is epic.
Anyway, the reason I brought all this up, is Mr. Duncan left what was the A Channel and is now CityTV. Below is the email that was sent out announcing the fact. I will of course provide commentary on the email. Enjoy... TO ALL STAFF
I am writing today to announce the departure of Chris Duncan from his position as Manager, Local Content Group for Citytv Calgary.By departure what I hear is he is being forced out.
After nearly 13 years with our Alberta stations, Chris has decided to move on and pursue some new opportunities. Uh, yeah, get out.
Chris joined our Edmonton station during our "start-up" phase in 1997 , an experience that could only be described as trying to take a sip of water from a fire hose!Sip of water from a firehose?
Under Chris' leadership the Edmonton newsroom and local programming department was born and proceeded to crank out 31.5 hours per week of local shows over the next 12 years highlighted by three consecutive AMPIA's for Best Newscast from 2000-2003.Leadership? Yeah 31.5 hours that was knocked down to about half that after the CRTC licence probation time was over. Oh and the AMPIA's stopped the minute we went on strike.Speaking of that strike...that was the strike that basically was the death blow to this station. Oh, and did I mention that YOU AND YOUR ARROGANCE, Chris Duncan, were the basic reason the Union was brought to A Channel. Remember the shooter fridge that you banished from the building. The next day someone contacted the Union.
Within 6 months we had a date set to sign cards. The week before we signed cards you fired one of the most popular employees to 'send a message' (allegedly) and that really drove people to the union. Had you not fired Randy we probably would not have gotten enough people to sign. Randy then sued your ass and won forcing you to offer him his job back. To which he told you guys to F -off. We then went on strike for 166 days, crippled your advertising, cut your ratings down to nothing, put a black eye on A Channel in the community, and then ultimately to it's sale. Nice job Chris. You and your management drove a stake through what was a pretty good newsroom and split it down the middle. I thought most of us in the newsroom wanted to work together and put on a good product. Helluva a job Brownie errrrrr, I mean Duncan.
In 2006 Chris made the move to Calgary to lead our re-vamped local Content group with his usual skill and dogged determination. We moved him to Calgary because the newsroom in Edmonton was poisoned and he was the main reason for that poison.Half the people did not trust you and the other half put up with you, but still did not trust you.
On behalf of all of us at Rogers Broadcasting Limited, I would like to thank Chris for his commitment and hard work for our organization. Good bye and good luck ruining another newsroom.
Please join me in wishing Chris well in his future.No thanks. I prefer to tell him to GET BENT.
Chris' last day with the Company is this Friday, April 30th.May first is the first day the company and all it's employees can actually take a deep breath and move on.
I have a million CD is an ass stories but I need to get to sleep. Maybe some other time. Good riddance CD. Wish I had never met you.
That is all I have for your Friday.... GET BACK TO WORK.
It is that time of year again. The time of year when multi-millionaires skate around on artificial ice and wow us with their skill of pushing a circular vulcanized rubber object into a net. Yup I am geeked. It is also the time of year when I put on my prediction cap and let all of you know just who is gonna win this dog and pony show. Time for you to call your bookie and make yourself some mortgage money.
Oh, how can I forget, it is also my favorite time of the hockey season when Gary Bettman gets his ass booed at centre ice. I absolutely love that. I also get to root against satans team, the Detroit Red Wings. I hear that Brent Favre is considering a playoff run with them this year. Only appropriate, the biggest douchebag on the planet playing for Douchebagtown USA.
This years playoffs are a bit more interesting. There are 4 new teams in it this year. The Godless Flames are not there, NICE. The Oil are not also. The Kings, Coyotes, Avs, and Sabres are in this year. As you all know, I only missed one series last year in the first round, and the year before I got them all right. How am I gonna do this year? Only time will tell. I do know that former Gambler and always Stanley Cup runner up, Ty Conklin is not in the playoffs this year so I will not have to deal with that mojo. Former Gambler Matt Greene is though so I do have to deal with that. Okay, lets get this party started...
WESTERN CONFERENCE San Jose Sharks (1) vs Colorado Avalanche (8)
Here is the deal, I love the Avs. I am down with them forever. The Sharks are perennial regular season juggernauts and post season choke jobs. My homeboy, TONY FREAKING GRANATO was the coach of the Avs last year. I am not really happy with how they did him when they let him go. Tony is now working with the current Stanley Cup Champions the Pittsburgh Penguins. Tony laces them up with Sidney Crosby every day. Not a bad fall back. Think about that. Tony has played with the Great One, Coached Burnaby Joe Sakic, and is now working with Sid the Kid. Awesome. Normally I would express some anger with the Avalanche and how they fired Tony, but since Tony is doing alright and the team had a great year, I will be the typical fan and let it slide. With that said, I will take the upset, Avalanche in 6. Chicago Blackhawks (2) vs Nashville Predators (7)
It is so good to see the Blackhawks back in form. I love to hear the noise in their barn in the playoffs. The National Anthem is an amazing spectacle at the United Centre. Of course if you listen to the Podcast that does not suck, TundraTalk, you would know that. Don Granato and Tony Granato have detailed that extensively. I spoke to Don recently and he gave me his assessment of the Hawks playoffs. He says that they are not deep enough in goal to win it all but will have some success in the early rounds because of their depth elsewhere. There you have it.
The Hawks have the Nash Vegas Predators. I guess I really did not know that they still played hockey in Nash Vegas. We all know that they should not still be there, so screw 'em. Never root for a southern based team. Gary Bettman can go get bent. Blackhawks in 5.
Vancouver Canucks (3) vs Los Angeles Kings (6)
Now here is where I contradict my self and become the ultimate hypocrite. I just got done saying that we never root for a southern team. Just to spite Bettman. He is a tool. I guess LA would be the exception to the rule. The only exception. After all Marcel Dionne played for LA. Wayne Gretzky played for LA. TONY FREAKING GRANATO played for LA. I saw my first NHL game at the Forum back in 1981. That's right, I said it, the Forum. Back when they still had those goofy purple and yellow jerseys. Check the price and the location of the seats. No way you get into Staples for 14 dollars now.
Now here is a tough one. The Phoenix Coyotes are the example for the rule as to why NOT to root for southern teams. Bettman has a guy, the owner of the Blackberry empire, who wants to buy the team. Wants to give him more than what it is worth, but wants to move it to Winnipeg or Hamilton. Bettman gives a lame ass speech that he does not run out on the fans of NHL teams. FU bettman, you run THIS F'N TEAM out on the fans of WINNIPEG. I hate Bettman. I also hate Detroit. Detroit sucks balls. Their goaltending is suspect and they wear those stupid red jerseys. They will however get past the flash in the pan Phoenix Coyotes. Preacherman and Doroshenko get their way. Again like last year, I hate myself, Detroit in 5.
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Washington Capitals (1) vs Montreal Canadiens (8)
Alexander the great versus Montreal. Hmmm this is tough. Caps in 4.
New Jersey (2) vs Philadelphia Flyers (7)
Not a big fan of the Devils and Martin Brodeur. I am still pissed that he did not continue in net for Canada at the olympics. He really should have been the guy for Canada. This series presents some difficulties also. For the Flyers everyone's favorite dirty player, Chris Pronger, is playing. Not a fan. But Ian Laperierre is also playing for the Flyers, he is cool. Former Av and a guy who used to bust my balls back in Edmonton every time they came through. This one is gonna be a barnburner. I like Philly in 7.
Buffalo Sabres (3) vs Boston Bruins (6)
Randy Hawke, of the Madison Hawkes, is a HUGE Sabre fan. HUGE. They have been playing well of late and the Bruins had to fight just to get in the playoffs, so I am going to take the Sabres in 7. You are welcome Hawke.
Pittsburgh Penguins (4) vs Ottawa Senators (5)
This one is easy. Ottawa just has not gotten over the Ty Conklin jinx of a few years back. They have had one problem after another. The Penguins have not been playing well down the stretch, BUT Sid the Kid is coming off his Golden Goal from the Olympics (dick) and he always seems to step it up when he needs to. Preacherman has a man crush on this guy. I will take the Penguins in 5.
There you have it, my predictions on the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. Take it to the bank. But as you know, any losses you have based on my predictions are all on you. I take no responsibility on your lack of picking prowess. If you lose, YOU LOSE. Not me.
Now, have a great day and GET BACK TO WORK
Preacherman sent his picks in and as usual they are wrong...
Western
Sharks vs. Avs Avs in 6, are you kidding me!??!?! With players like Marleau, Ortmeyer, Thorton, and Blake the Sharks won’t have much problem with the sucky Avs. Oh yeah, I forgot one thing, Joe Pavelski. He is the best player I’ve seen come through the USHL and he should have won the Hobey Baker when he was at UW. When it is all said and done, Pavelski will be the greatest power forward ever to play the game. Sharks in 5.
Blackhawks vs. Predlies I agree. It is great to see the Blackhawks doing good again. I have been to the United CentER and heard the National Anthem, very cool. I can only imagine what it’s like during the playoffs. The Blackhawks have way too much talent for Nashville to handle. Mr. Everything, Jonathan Toews, will have an unforgettable playoffs. Blackhawks in 4.
Vancooter vs. LA Not really sold on either of these teams. I guess I’m leaning towards Vancooter because of the Sedin sisters and Yan Stastny. Vancooter in 6.
Phoenix vs Detroit. How the hell can you play hockey in a desert!?!? Even though my Wings aren’t too good this year … 16 games until my Redwings win the Stanley Cup! Eastern
Washington vs Canadians They just might call this one after three games. Washington is WAY too much for the Habs to handle.
Devils vs Flyers I am a Brodeur fan and he should have been in net for Team Canada. This is going to be a chippy, dirty series. I hate the Flyers and Bob Clarke. Flyers are just talentless punks. Devils in 5. SabERS vs Bruins I haven’t seen much of either of these teams this year. But I know if Tim Thomas was in net for the Olympics, USA would have won the gold. But still have a bad taste in my mouth with the Bruins because of the traitor Phil Kessel. Once again Sabers in 6 just for you Hawke.
Pittsburgh vs Oh Ottawa This is one awesome series!!! Where do I begin? Is there anything Crosby can’t do??? Youngest to ever wear the C and hoist the Cup. He is the closest to perfection we’ll ever see. Malkin will lead the playoffs in goals. But it won’t be that easy, Pittsburgh is going to run into a roadblock named Chris Phillips, Anton Volchenkov, and Brian Elliot. Spezza will be great like always. Game on!!! Pittsburgh in 7
Yes, it is hard to be humble. I called it. I told you what would happen, and it happened. Some might call that having ESP, most TV networks might call me up and base a prime time show on me. I just am that good.
The Stanley Cup went to the Pittsburgh Penguins in seven games. If you would like to confirm that I was right, just click here. It was a great final game that was a nail biter from end to end. I am usually very critical of Detroit fans because they hardly ever get to the game on time, or back to their seats for the beginning of the period but I will give them credit for staying through the trophy ceremony and actually clapping for the Penguins. I will also give them credit for booing the shit out of Bettman. I love that. It happens every year and it is worth the wait every year. Bettman is a tool.
I want Ty Conklin's name on the cup really bad, but he just was on the wrong team. If you look at recent history, he has been on the wrong team of late. He was in Edmonton when they lost in seven games to the Carolina Hurricanes. He was also in Ottowa when they lost the cup. He was on the Pittsburgh Penguins last year when they lost to the Wings. I think it is safe to say at this point that if Ty is on your team you will get to the final but winning it is probably not in the cards. In the USHL Ty won back to back championships for the Green Bay Gamblers so he is not a jinx by any means but he did lose the NCAA Frozen Four with the New Hampshire Bears and the Calder Cup (game 7) with the Hamilton Bulldogs. Not sure what to do with all that math.
Let me tell you a story. There is a guy I know named Preacherman. He is a guy from Pulaski Wisconsin. He likes hockey. He also likes the Godless Detroit Red Wings. As he has always done, he will call me or text me after the Red Wings win against the Avs. During this final he took time out of his 'busy' schedule to text me immediately after EVERY game in this series. Of course these texts were not of a complimentary nature. Most of them were very braggadocio. Nice word huh? Yeah, I am kind of a big deal. Anyway, he would most of the time tell me how many games the Red Wings had won. I would always tell him that it takes 4 to win the Cup. He was counting his chickens so to say, which we all know, especially in hockey, a person should not do.
Well, Preacherman has something to say to all of you out there in TundraTalk Nation...
Dear TundraTalk Nation,
I still sit here brokenhearted. When parents say they love their kids equally in their own way, THEY ARE LYING! Every parent has their fav kid. My favorite "kid", the Detroit Red Wings, decided only to show up to a couple of the the Stanley Cup finals games. And it showed by bowing out to my other kid, Sid the kid, and the Pittsburgh Penguins in seven games (as Sign Boy perdicted once again). Chris is getting almost as good with his picks as the stinking genious Arnie Spanier.
As I sat there watching game seven in my Joey Kocur sweater (and Crosby sweatsuit underneath) I realized how much they need Darren McCarty and Chelli out there. The Wings were trying to be too pretty, they need to play that tough game that brought them the past 4 cups. They don't have the skill that they had in '02 (thank God for Brett Hull!) They got ran over, out played, out everything by the Pens. And it does seem like Ty Conkiln is a Stanley Cup curse, even though it pains me to say that. My heart did stop for a little while when Sidney got hurt, but it's all good now.
Mario finally passed the torch to Sid, it's now his league. It was awesome seeing Mario with the cup again. PLEASE Mario, just one more shift. You, Sid, and Malkin.
Preacherman
Well Preacherman, it takes a strong man to admit he was wrong, and boy you were wrong, so I congratulate you on your admitting wrongness. You root for a crappy hockey team and you are not ashamed to admit it. If only you could be as bold about your Lions. Man they suck.
I would like to also at this point say I offered space to Trev Doroshenko to apologize to you, but he would not. He has too much pride (ego) to admit when he is wrong. Oh and he IS WRONG. NEXT: I had the opportunity to conduct my interview with OG Posse Member Chad Weiser, of the Seattle Weisers, this week. Chad took time out of his 'big city' schedule to make his case for being part of the most elite posse this side of the Mississippi. We are on this side of the Mississippi aren't we?
Anyway, Chad (that is him as Bob McKenzie on the left in the black and white pic) brought the noise and made a strong case for inclusion. He took Marty Frey's smak and handed it right back, he set the record straight on the War Hero in the car wash incident, and did quite well on his movie quotes. CLICK HERE to listen to the podcast or just click the link at the top right of the page. You know TundraTalk is the Podcast that does not suck.
Next up on the Podcast that never ends is Shawn Hauser of the Green Bay Hausers. He will round up our interview process and send the wheels in motion to selection. Unless, Tony Mutzenberger makes a late apperance. Which would be nice.
How will the selection happen you ask? Well let me tell ya. It, of course, will be long and drawn out. I will be selection 5 guys for the posse, PLUS two alternates. The alternates will not have the honor of being in the actual posse BUT will be called upon at a moments notice to fill in for a 'first team' memeber if he cannot fulfill his duties at any time.
On the first selection post I will name the two fellas who rose up to be apart of the the alternate crew. Then I will post once a day until we have the whole crew named. I know, the tension is thick and you cannot hardly wait, but it will be worth it.
Okay, I know a lot of you have already seen the video above but I am showing it now because it is almost boat season here in Saskabush and I am damn sure going to be singing this song, in my head, every time I set foot in my boat. Funny as shit. I played it at work about 30 times the other day.
Oh, if you are at work make sure you do not turn it up because there is some swearing in the song. I will not take any responsibility if you lose your job because you are jamming out to this. I saw it first on Shannon Just Blog.
NEXT: I conducted Marty Frey's Entourage interview last night and it was epic. I will be editing it today and hopefully have it up tonight for all 20 or so of you who actually take the time to listen to it to peruse. Marty came strong and took shots at the host, NBC, Jay Leno, and of course the queens.
Speaking of Jay Leno he gave us some insight in the whole shift of power between Jay and Conan since he has been in rehearsals for Conan's show all week. This is another TT exclusive for you. I am truly a media mogul running this multi dollar website. You can CLICK HERE or click on the link to the right to listen to the podcast. If the words are not blue I do not have it up yet. When they turn blue it is on. Nice.
That also means that Chad Weiser, of the Seattle coffee drinkin' Weisers, is up next. I plan on cranking that one out soon also so be prepared.
NEXT: My picks for the Stanley Cup Final will be very similar to last year except for one thing....
DETROIT RED WINGS (2) VS PITTSBURGH PENGUINS (4)
Now, you all know I hate the Red Wings with a passion. I don't need to go there. We also know that Preacher and Doroshenko misguidedly love the wings. Don't need to go there. Ty Conklin is one of the greatestGreen Bay Gamblers of all time AND a TT vetran. True. I want Ty's name on the Cup more than I want Favre to stay retired (which he will). Yes we know that. Preacher is in love with Sidney Crosby. True.
So where is this going? To the obvious, Penguins will win the Stanley Cup. Take it to the bank. Now I will tell you why. Since Gary Bettman is a tool and his only desire is not to keep the game of hockey great but to get better ratings in the USA (which will NEVER happen). In his infinite wisdom, and since NBC has their hand up his ass (sorry Marty). He has decided to play back to back games in the Stanley Cup final. Somebody kick this guys ass now.
Some of you may say that these guys are pros and should just shut up and play. Well you can say that as long as you are just watching them on TV. BUT, I followed the Oilers in 2006 in the playoffs and finals and I can tell you by being there that this is a very difficult thing to win the Stanley Cup. These guys beat the shit out of each other and that day of rest is very important to them. Gary, the numbnuts, Bettman makes them play Saturday night and then again Sunday afternoon. That is less than 24 hours to recover. God forbid the game goes a few overtimes. Screw Gary Bettman. He is ruining the game of hockey. Not to mention his hypocracy with this whole Phoenix Coyotes thing. Screw him.
Anyway, I think the Penguins are less beat up and are more ready for this. Sid the Kid has the eye of the tiger and Billy Gun Guerin has not got this far in his career and is not going to let it slip away. Sorry Ty, I am taking the Penguins in 7.
I would also like you to notice for the past few posts there has been little things to click on at the bottom. Kinda instant feedback you can say. Make sure you take time to click on the stuff on the bottom. Especially the viqueens suck one.
Oh and one more thing: I found this the other day on PackerPalace dot com. Fran Tarkenton, who played for the queens, has apparently lots to say about Favre in the Green Bay Press Gazette. After reading this...
“I think it's despicable,” Tarkenton told 790 The Zone in Atlanta (via the Minneapolis Star Tribune) regarding the possibility of Brett Favre playing for the Vikings. “What he put the Packers through last year was not good. Here’s an organization that was loyal to him for 17, 18 years, provided stability of organization, provided players. It just wasn’t about Brett Favre. In this day and time, we have glorified the Brett Favre’s of the world so much, they think it’s about them. He goes to New York and bombs. He’s 39 years old. How would you like Ray Nitschke in his last year [playing for] the Vikings, or I retire, and go play for the Packers? I kind of hope it happens, so he can fail.”
“He told the Packers [after 2008 that], ‘I’m retiring,’” Tarkenton said. “They’ve got to move on. They’ve got to go through their offseason plan, their workouts, they go with the other quarterback [Aaron Rodgers], who is a good player, and then [Favre] comes back and says, ‘I think I want to play.’ . . . You build your team in the offseason. Everybody knows that. It’s about team. It’s not about Brett Favre. So he goes and runs up to the Jets, doesn’t even dress in the locker room with the players. Has a separate facility. Playing quarterback is about the relationships you have with your coaches, with your players, with your trainers, with your managers. How can you do that if you show up on gameday and you haven’t put the time in? And now he’s trying to do it again in Minnesota. And if Minnesota bites, God bless them. . . .
“He’s been a great player, there’s no question about it, but it’s all about him. It is supposed to be all about your team. If you’re going to be the quarterback of your team, you need to be there in the offseason workouts in March and April. Peyton Manning’s there. Tom Brady’s there.”
“I think [Favre] has been a great flamboyant quarterback, but he has made more stupid plays than any great quarterback that I’ve ever seen,” Tarkenton said. “Look at his final game in a Packers uniform [the 2007 NFC title game]. He blew that game against the Giants. He’s playing against Eli Manning. I love Eli Manning, but he’s still not a great quarterback. He’s not Peyton yet, or Tom Brady. He’s just a guy. And [the Packers] are playing at home, and they’re in a tight situation, they went to overtime and [Favre] throws the interception that allows [the Giants] to come back and win the game.”
I used to have a lot of respect for Fran, but now all I have to say to him is show me your ring dick weed, then you can talk. Suck on that Frannie boy.
Thank you.
Make sure you send Derek Venckus, of the Deep South Venckus', a happy birthday greeting. He will appreciate it. Have a great day and an even better weekend. Now GET BACK TO WORK.
Hello, are you listening? I hope you are because if you were, and you took my advice and called your bookie. You would be a lot richer right now. Last round I was 3 for 4 on the series. The only series I got wrong was the Bruins/Hurricanes and that went seven and OT in the seventh game. Could have gone either way. I am soooo good it is sick.
First off lets get to the mail bag... James Grandy, of the Minot Grandy's, pipes in...
Dear TT,
I'm with ya buddy, no real Viking fan wanted him. He sucks...and he is the same age as you pete, so really...it would be like you playing QB for the vikes.
This ain't over, its never over.....never.....ever.
You know what, I may as well as be your QB. I have just as many super bowl rings as any queen in history. Deal with that queenfan. Besides that has got to burn that the BEST shot you have at EVER getting a ring is with the greatest Packer player of all time. You suck.
Next Jon Bauer, also of the Minot Bauers, jumps into the Favre thing...
Chris :
I think you are looking this all wrong, if Favre does go to the DWIkings look at all the returns for Td that Chuck Woodson will have!!!!
Jon
Correctumundo...
Finally, Lee Ellison, of the Bismarck Ellisons, takes time out of his busy schedule being the biggest stupid viqueen fan of all times to send me this picture...
Thank you Lee for stepping up and finally joining the discussion. Everyone needs one more queen fan to bash. After all it is the Packer way.
So how do I out do round one and two? Well I am gonna tell you. Here are my picks for the Conference Finals.
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINAL
Pittsburgh Penguins (4) vs Carolina Hurricanes (6)
This one is a tough one, but not really. Preacherman's boyfriend, Crosby, is leading the playoff scoring and is on a tear. This kid is good. Does not crumble under pressure. Always seems to come up with a goal when he needs one. He is truly the goods. On the other hand, the Hurricanes have done exactly what everyone has said they wouldn't do. They whipped Brodeur and the Devils. The took off the number one seed in the Bruins in a series that they jumped out to a 3-1 lead. Amazing. Cam Ward is playing like a mad man right now and is really tough to beat. He looks a bit like he did back when the Hurricanes beat the Oilers in the final. You remember that right? Well you ought to, I blogged about it two,three times a day. I think home ice is gonna be huge in this one with the Pens getting one in Carolina. I am taking the Penguins in 6. I know the Nature Boy is not happy with me right now.
WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL
Detroit Red Wings (2) vs Chicago Blackhawks (4)
Everyone here knows about my extreme dislike for the Red Wings. How much I wish they would take that octopus and shove it. They are almost on the level of hatred I have for the queens. Close, but not all the way there. Despite all that hate I have still managed to put it in a box for two rounds and pick them to win. I want Ty Conklin's name on the cup so bad I can taste it, but at what cost? What cost I ask? Do I want to sell my soul just to get his name on the cup? Hell no. If you look at the last couple of times Ty has been in the Final it was with the Oilers, Ottawa, and Pittsburgh. Where did that get those teams? Second place. This time I am thinking that it will get them second in the conference. Trev Doroshenkon and the Preacher are on the wrong side of the fence on this one. That is my heart picking, not my head. Blackhawks in 7.
Speaking of the Preacher man, he managed to send me his picks this time BEFORE the round began so I will share them now....
Dear TT,
I'm impressed by your vast knowledge! Wings did go to 7 games.
Penguins beat the 'Canes in 5
Only 8 more games until my Wings take the Cup ... again, and again, and again. WOOOOOO!
I can't wait until Favre becomes a Viqueen and we'll see how long it takes Stafford to be another failed pick for my Lions *cough* Andre Ware *cough*.
Preacher
Ummmmmm, Preacher, Favre is NOT going to play with the queens. Oh, and yes you read right, Preacher is a Lions fan. I did not know there were any left. Now that I think about it, I do remember Preacher playing the Lions back in the day when we held Madden tournaments. He used to cheat a lot running Sanders around the end and running the clock out. I remember a pass interference in the end zone that wasn't in one game. CHEATER. Hold a grudge? Not me.
Before I go any further I would like to send an extra happy birthday wish to TT ledgend Marty Frey. That's right, it is his birthday today. You might want to pay your respects to the man. I did. I sent him this.
I think he may likey. Happy birthday big man. Hope you managed to tip plenty of the tie dye brews today.
So I picked up a new project the other day. Off of Used Regina dot com. I got a new juke box. It is a Rock Ola Mirage 3000X CD changer. It holds 100 CD's and it does not work. I got it cheap, 50 bucks cheap. The guy who had it before me took the insides completely apart. Crazy. So I have managed to put it back together, for the most part. I got the CD rack to move back and forth, the digital read out to work, and pretty much everything but the arm to move the CD's. I know I am close.
I have one cord that I cannot find where it goes. I have been calling every vendor in town who has ever handled a CD juke and they are all very nice but not helpful. They don't want to lend a hand. Oh well, I will get it figured out eventually. If you happend to see one of these somewhere and it looks like it is being parted out. CALL ME. I might need some of it for this one.
Okay, have a good week and we will see you soon. GO BLACKHAWKS!!!!
