Sid and Talbot's Reebok Commercial

This is a new Reebok commercial for "Speedwick Performance Tees" featuring Sid, Talbot and the INFAMOUS dryer (although I think I read in the USA Today article that it was a recreated set, so I'm not too sure the dryer is 'legit'). It will makes it's debut on Friday during the Winter Classic.

THANKS to all of you who were kind enough to think of emailing it (or a link) to me!!

"This is Nova Scotia.
This is Cole Harbour.

This is my town.

This is my house.

This is my mom and dad.

This is my basement."

OLYMPICS 2010: Canada, Finland, Switzerland, Germany, and Czech Republic Announce Rosters

Yesterday, five more nations announced rosters for the 2010 men's Olympic hockey teams - Canada, Finland, Switzerland, Germany, and Czech Republic. The US roster will be the final announcement which is to be made on Friday during the Winter Classic.

TEAM CANADA (announced December 30th)

TEAM FINLAND

DEFENSEMEN
Lasse Kukkonen (Avangard, KHL)
Sami Lepisto (Phoenix Coyotes)
Toni Lydman (Buffalo Sabres)
Janne Niskala (Frölunda, SWE)
Joni Pitkanen (Carolina Hurricanes)
Sami Salo (Vancouver Canucks)
Kimmo Timonen (Philadelphia Flyers)

FORWARDS
Valtteri Filppula (Detroit Red Wings)
Niklas Hagman (Toronto Maple Leafs)
Jarkko Immonen (Ak Bars, KHL)
Olli Jokinen (Calgary Flames)
Niko KapanenAk Bars (KHL)
Mikko Koivu (Minnesota Wild)
Saku Koivu (Anaheim Ducks)
Jere Lehtinen (Dallas Stars)
Antti Miettinen (Minnesota Wild)
Ville Peltonen (Minsk, KHL)
Jarkko Ruutu (Ottawa Senators)
Tuomo Ruutu (Carolina Hurricanes)
Teemu Selanne (Anaheim Ducks)

GOALTENDERS
Niklas Backstrom (Minnesota Wild)
Miikka Kiprusoff (Calgary Flames)
Antero Niittymaki (Tampa Bay Lightning)


TEAM GERMANY

DEFENSEMEN
Michael Bakos (ERC Ingolstadt)
Christian Ehrhoff (Vancouver Canucks)
Jakub Ficenec (ERC Ingolstadt)
Jason Holland (DEG Metro Stars Düsseldorf)
Korbinian Holzer (DEG Metro Stars Düsseldorf)
Chris Schmidt (Adler Mannheim)
Dennis Seidenberg (Florida Panthers)
Alexander Sulzer (Nashville Predators)

FORWARDS
Alexander Barta (Hamburg Freezers)
Sven Felski (Eisbären Berlin)
Marcel Goc (Nashville Predators)
Philip Gogulla (Portland Pirates)
Thomas Greilinger (ERC Ingolstadt)
Manuel Klinge (Kassel Huskies)
Marcel Müller (Kölner Haie)
Travis James Mulock (Eisbären Berlin)
André Rankel (Eisbären Berlin)
Marco Sturm (Boston Bruins)
John Tripp (Hamburg Freezers)
Michael Wolf (Iserlohn Roosters)

GOALTENDERS
Dennis Endras (Augsburger Panther)
Thomas Greiss (San Jose Sharks)
Dimitri Patzold (ERC Ingolstadt)


TEAM SWITZERLAND

COACH
Ralph Krueger

DEFENSEMEN
Goran Bezina (Geneva-Servette)
Severin Blindenbacher (Färjestad Karlstad)
Rafael Diaz (EV Zug)
Roman Josi (SC Bern)
Luca Sbisa (Lethbridge Hurricanes)
Mathias Seger (ZSC Lions Zurich)
Mark Streit (New York Islanders)
Yannick Weber (Hamilton Bulldogs)

FORWARDS
Andres Ambühl (Hartford Wolf Pack)
Thomas Déruns (Geneva-Servette)
Hnat Domenichelli (HC Lugano)
Sandy Jeannin (HC Fribourg-Gottéron)
Thibaut Monnet (ZSC Lions Zurich)
Thierry Paterlini (Rapperswil-Jona Lakers)
Martin Plüss (SC Bern)
Kevin Romy (HC Lugano)
Ivo Rüthemann (SC Bern)
Raffaele Sannitz (HC Lugano)
Julien Sprunger (HC Fribourg-Gottéron)
Roman Wick (Kloten Flyers)

GOALTENDERS
Martin Gerber (Atlant Mytishchi)
Jonas Hiller (Anaheim Ducks)
Tobias Stephan (Geneva-Servette)


TEAM CZECH REPUBLIC

DEFENSEMEN
Miroslav Blatak (Salavat, KHL)
Jan Hejda (Columbus Blue Jackets)
Tomas Kaberle (Toronto Maple Leafs)
Filip Kuba (Ottawa Senators)
Pavel Kubina (Atlanta Thrashers)
Zbynek Michalek (Phoenix Coyotes)
Roman Polak (St. Louis Blues)
Marek Zidlicky (Minnesota Wild)

FORWARDS
Petr Cajanek (SKA Petrohrad)
Roman Cervenka (HC Slavia)
Patrik Elias (NJ Devils)
Martin Erat (Nashville Predators)
Tomas Fleischmann (Washington Capitals)
Martin Havlat (Minnesota Wild)
Jaromir Jagr (Avangard, KHL)
David Krejci (Boston Bruins)
Milan Michalek (Ottawa Senators)
Tomas Plekanec (Montreal Canadiens)
Tomas Rolinek (Metallurg, KHL)
Josef Vasicek (Lokomotiv, KHL)

GOALTENDERS
Ondrej Pavelec (Atlanta Thrashers)
Jakub Stepanek (HC Vitkovice)
Tomas Vokoun (Florida Panthers)

On this Date in Pittsburgh Penguins History

December 31, 1988

Mario Lemieux becomes the first player in NHL history to score a goal five different ways in one game (even strength, power play, short-handed, penalty shot, empty net) in an 8-6 win over New Jersey.

Fleury Joins Crosby on 2010 Olympics Team Canada

He would, he wouldn't - we just didn't know, but with his recent high level performances Fleury was giving them a hard argument not to select him as one of the goalies on Team Canada. Starting in goal, though, is a different story; that spot will be filled by Martin Brodeur.

Alot of questions were answered today with the announcement of Team Canada's roster -- two biggies for the Penguins fans were that Jordan Staal was not selected to be part of this year's team and Crosby will not be the team Captain (that role will be filled by veteran forward Scott Niedermayer) although Crosby will be donning an "A" on his jersey along with two other Canadian teammates.

Here's the complete roster (stay tuned for Germany's, Finland's, Czech Republic's and Switzerland's rosters later today - it'll take me time to get them up here):

TEAM CANADA (announced today, December 30th)

COACH
Mike Babcock (Detroit Red Wings)

DEFENSEMEN
Chris Pronger (Philadelphia Flyers) - "A"
Shea Weber (Nashville Predators)
Brent Seabrook (Chicago Blackhawks)
Scott Niedermayer (Anaheim Ducks) - "C"
Dan Boyle (San Jose Sharks)
Drew Doughty (LA Kings)
Duncan Keith (Chicago Blackhawks)

FORWARDS
Sidney Crosby (Pittsburgh Penguins) - "A"
Jarome Iginla (Calgary Flames) - "A"
Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks)
Rick Nash (Columbus Blue Jackets)
Eric Staal (Carolina Hurricanes)
Mike Richards (Philadelphia Flyers)
Brenden Morrow (Dallas Stars)
Dany Heatley (San Jose Sharks)
Joe Thornton (San Jose Sharks)
Ryan Getzlaf (Anaheim Ducks)
Patrick Marleau (San Jose Sharks)
Corey Perry (Anaheim Ducks)
Patrice Bergeron (Boston Bruins)

GOALTENDERS
Martin Brodeur (NJ Devils)
Roberto Luongo (Vancouver Canucks)
Marc-Andre Fleury (Pittsburgh Penguins)

UP NEXT: NEW JERSEY DEVILS
(27-9-1, 55 points)
In net tonight: Martin Brodeur (projected)

New Jersey Devils webpage
PREVIEW (12/29/2009)
Corrente recalled, Leblond to IR (12/29/2009)

Check back throughout the day for updates!!

That's So MAF (the musings of a Penguins goalie)!

By now you've all heard about the Penguins bus getting stuck and a few of the guys getting out and pushing it in the snow-filled streets of Buffalo -- the story was all over the news yesterday (and practically all they wanted to talk about), but I guess it's not everyday that you hear about a coach getting out to push a bus alongside his support staff and a few players!!!

One of those players helping Bylsma happened to be the Pens starting goalie and fun-loving jokester, Marc-Andre Fleury, so you know when he's involved that hilarity ensued!!

Here is how Fleury tells the story followed by Matt Cooke's side of it (notice the slight variation!)!! ; P

"It was crazy seeing people outside in suits and ties trying to push a bus," Fleury said. "I just put my big biceps on the bus, and it didn't take long after that."

Cooke interpreted the situation differently. "I'm sure his intentions were good," Cooke said. "But I'm not sure he even touched the bus."

THIS is one of the MANY, MANY reasons that the Penguins organization is loved by so many!! Their sense of humor and the way they poke fun and joke around with each other is similar to that of a family and is nothing short of special!

OLYMPICS 2010: Norway, Latvia, and Slovakia Announce Rosters

TEAM NORWAY (announced December 29th)

DEFENSEMEN
Alexander Bonsaksen, Modo (SWE)
Jonas Holøs, Färjestad (SWE)
Tommy Jakobsen, Lørenskog
Juha Kaunismäki, Stavanger Oilers
Lars Erik Lund, Vålerenga
Ole-Kristian Tollefsen (Philadelphia Flyers)
Mats Trygg, Kölner Haie (GER)

FORWARDS
Morten Ask, Thomas Sabo Tigers (GER)
Anders Bastiansen, Färjestad (SWE)
Kristian Forsberg, Modo (SWE)
Mads Hansen, Brynäs (SWE)
Marius Holtet, Färjestad (SWE)
Lars Erik Spets, Vålerenga
Mathis Olimb, Frölunda (SWE)
Martin Røymark, Frölunda (SWE)
Per-Åge Skrøder, Modo (SWE)
Patrick Thoresen, Ufa Salavat (RUS)
Tore Vikingstad, Hannover Scorpions (GER)
Martin Laumann, Ylven Linlöping (SWE)
Mats Zuccarello, Aasen Modo (SWE)

GOALTENDERS
Pål Grotnes, Stjernen
Andre Lysenstøen, Haki (FIN)
Ruben Smith, Storhamar


TEAM LATVIA (announced December 29th)

COACH
Olegs Znaroks

DEFENSEMEN
Oskars Bartulis (Philadelphia Flyers)
Guntis Galvins (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Rodrigo Lavins (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Georgijs Pujacs (Sibir Novosibirsk, KHL)
Krisjanis Redlihs (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Arvids Rekis (Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg, DEL)
Karlis Skrastins (Dallas Stars)
Kristaps Sotnieks (Dinamo Riga, KHL)

FORWARDS
Girts Ankipans (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Armands Berzins (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Martins Cipulis (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Lauris Darzins (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Kaspars Daugavins (Binghamton Senators, AHL)
Martins Karsums (Norfolk Admirals, AHL)
Gints Meija (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Aleksandrs Nizivijs (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Mikelis Redlihs (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Aleksejs Sirokovs (Amur Khabarovsk, KHL)
Janis Sprukts (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Herberts Vasiljevs (Krefeld Pinguine, DEL)

GOALTENDERS
Edgars Masalskis (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Ervins Mustukovs (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Sergejs Naumovs (free agent)


TEAM SLOVAKIA (announced December 29th)

DEFENSEMEN
Zdeno Chara (Boston Bruins)
Milan Jurcina (Columbus Blue Jackets)
Richard Lintner (MINSK, KHL)
Andrej Meszaros (Tampa Bay Lightning)
Andrej Sekera (Buffalo Sabres)
Martin Strbak (HK MVD, KHL)
Lubomir Visnovsky (NHL)

FORWARDS
Lubos Bartecko (SC BERN)
Branko Radivojevic (SPARTAK, KHL)
Martin Cibak (SPARTAK, KHL)
Pavol Demitra (Vancouver Canucks)
Marian Gaborik (NY Rangers)
Michal Handzus (LA Kings)
Marian Hossa (Chicago Blackhawks)
Marcel Hossa (DINAMO RIGA, KHL)
Tomas Kopecky (Chicago Blackhawks)
Zigmund Palffy (HK 36)
Jozef Stumpel (BARYS, KHL)
Miroslav Satan (free agent)
Richard Zednik (LOKOMOTIV, KHL)

GOALTENDERS
Peter Budaj (Colorado Avalanche)
Jaroslav Halak (Montreal Canadiens)
Rastislav Stana (SEVERSTAL, KHL)

[UPDATE] Pre-Game Notes (Pittsburgh VS Buffalo) - Eaton to Play!

[UPDATE]
EATON WILL PLAY TONIGHT according to the Penguins webpage.

LINE COMBINATIONS (from the morning skate)
Kunitz-Crosby-Dupuis
Rupp-Malkin-Guerin
Cooke-Staal-Kennedy
Talbot-Adams-Godard/Fedotenko

MARK EATON
Eaton feels that his knee is strong enough to return to the lineup tonight against the Buffalo Sabres, but it hasn't yet been set in stone.

"I'll make myself available," he said.

"(Monday) was another step in battle level," head coach Dan Bylsma said. "Competitions one-on-one, he did some battling in the corner. ... It looked like he was 100 percent in practice, so we’ll see how he responds."

"It's about testing it out and making sure it can deal with the physical play and the skating," he said. "I've tested it out a lot the last three days and it's held up well. It feels good. I feel like I'm ready to go. I feel like I'm ready to get back into the full swing and play a full schedule. If it's up to me, I'd say I'm ready for back-to-backs. But a lot of times it's not up to me."

MAINTENANCE DAY
Yesterday, both Kunitz and Goligoski did not participate in practice and HC Bylsma reported that it was just the typical maintenance day and he expects them to be in the lineup tonight.

LINE COMBINATIONS (projected)
Fedotenko-Crosby-Dupuis
Kunitz-Malkin-Guerin
Cooke-Staal-Rupp
Talbot-Adams-Godard

Gonchar-Orpik
Skoula [Eaton?]-Letang
McKee-Goligoski

Fleury

PENS BATTLE THE WEATHER
The team hit a little snag on their way to Buffalo yesterday. Their bus was only a few blocks from the hotel and it got stuck in the snow-covered streets. The coaching and support staff actually got out and pushed from the rear of the bus to get the wheels moving again and the Penguins webpage posted pics to prove it (what a great bunch of guys!)!!

Buffalo Injury / Line Info

• Derek Roy (F), upper body injury - day-to-day (expected to be out of the lineup tonight)
• Patrick Kaleta (F), leg injury suffered during Sunday's game - day-to-day
• Nathan Gerbe (F), strained groin - out of the lineup since December 11th

Watch the Announcement of 2010 Men's Team Canada Roster LIVE

Canada's Pride: The Selection Of The Men's Olympic Hockey Team will be broadcast live on Wednesday, December 30th at Noon (est).

"The announcement of the men's hockey roster for Vancouver 2010 will be a galvanizing moment for all Canadians to share and experience together," said Keith Pelley, President, Canada's Olympic Broadcast Media Consortium.

It will be broadcast exclusively on CTV, TSN, Rogers Sportsnet, OLN, OMNI, APTN, ATN, /A\, CTV News Channel, CP24, CP24 and NHL Network (french coverage on exclusively on RDS and RIS Info Sports). The announcement will also air live on the radio on THE FAN 590 Toronto, The FAN 960 Calgary and Corus Quebec's CKAC Sports.

Live streams will be available on the internet at CTVOlympics.ca and RDSOlympiques.ca (in French). THANK GOD for the internet, eh?!!!

For more information, visit CTV Olympics and TSN for full articles.

ADDITIONAL NOTE: it was previously reported that the roster for Team USA will be announced during the Winter Classic "festivies" at Fenway Park on January 1st.

OLYMPICS 2010: Belarus, Russia and Sweden Announce Rosters

These lists are still considered to be preliminary and are subject to change in case some of the players sustain injuries. However, the final list will have to be confirmed on February 15, a day prior to the opening of the Olympic Hockey tournament, and must not be changed afterwards.

TEAM BELARUS (announcement made December 23rd)

Zakharov issued a warning to these 23 players on the BIHA website. "It does not mean that those hockey players that are on this list definitely go to Vancouver. So it is not worth it to relax. For others, who did not get to this part, let this turn of events be an additional incentive to improve their game. The final composition, we will announce in February."

COACH
Mikhail Zakharov

DEFENSEMEN
Andrei Antonov (Shakhter Soligorsk)
Andrei Bashko (Shakhter Soligorsk)

Vladimir Denisov (Dynamo Minsk)

Viktor Kostiuchenok (Amur Khabarovsk)

Ruslan Salei (Colorado Avalanche)

Nikolai Stasenko (Amur Khabarovsk)

Vadim Sushko (Shakhter Soligorsk)

Alexander Syrei (Shakhter Soligorsk)

FORWARDS
Oleg Antonenko (Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg)
Sergei Demagin (Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk)
Mikhail Grabovski (Toronto Maple Leafs)
Alexei Kaliuzhny (Dynamo Moscow)
Konstantin Koltsov (Salavat Yulayev Ufa)
Andrei Kostitsyn (Montreal Canadiens)
Sergei Kostitsyn (Montreal Canadiens)
Alexander Kulakov (Dynamo Minsk)
Andrei Mikhalev (Dynamo Minsk)
Andrei Stas (Dynamo Minsk)
Alexei Ugarov (MVD Balashikha)
Sergei Zadelenov (Dynamo Minsk)

GOALTENDERS
Vitali Koval (Dynamo Minsk)
Maxim Malyutin (HK Vitebsk)
Andrei Mezin (Dynamo Minsk)

TEAM RUSSIA (announcement made December 25th)

COACH
Vyacheslav Bykov

DEFENSEMEN
Anton Volchenkov (Ottawa Senators)
Sergei Gonchar (Pittsburgh Penguins)
Denis Grebeshkov (Edmonton Oilers)
Dmitry Kalinin (Salavat Yulaev, KHL)
Konstantin Korneyev (CSKA, KHL)
Andrei Markov (Montreal Canadiens)
Ilya Nikulin (Ak Bars, KHL)
Fyodor Tyutin (Columbus Blue Jackets)

FORWARDS
Maxim Afinogenov (Atlanta Thrashers)
Pavel Datsyuk (Detroit Red Wings)
Danis Zaripov (Ak Bars, KHL)
Sergei Zinovyev (Salavat Yulaev, KHL)
Ilya Kovalchuk (Atlanta Thrashers)
Viktor Kozlov (Salavat Yulaev, KHL)
Yevgeny [Evgeni] Malkin (Pittsburgh Penguins)
Alexei Morozov (Ak Bars, KHL)
Alexander Ovechkin (Washington Capitals)
Alexander Radulov (Salavat Yulaev, KHL)
Alexander Syomin [Semin] (Washington Capitals)
Sergei Fyodorov (Metallurg Magnitogorsk, KHL)

GOALTENDERS
Ilya Bryzgalov (Phoenix Coyotes)
Semyon Varlamov (Washinton Capitals)
Yevgeny Nabokov (San Jose Sharks)


TEAM SWEDEN (announcement made December 27th)

COACH

DEFENSEMEN
Tobias Enstrom (Atlanta Thrashers)
Magnus Johansson (Linkopings, SEL)
Niklas Kronwall (Detroit Red Wings)
Nicklas Lidstrom (Detroit Red Wings)
Douglas Murray (San Jose Sharks)
Johnny Oduya (NJ Devils)
Mattias Ohlund (Tampa Bay Lightning)
Henrik Tallinder (Buffalo Sabres)

FORWARDS
Daniel Alfredsson (Ottawa Senators)
Nicklas Backstrom (Washington Capitals)
Loui Eriksson (Dallas Stars)
Peter Forsberg (MODO, SEL)
Tomas Holmstrom (Detroit Red Wings)
Patric Hornqvist (Nashville Predators)
Fredrik Modin (Columbus Blue Jackets)
Samuel Pahlsson (Columbus Blue Jackets)
Daniel Sedin (Vancouver Canucks)
Henrik Sedin (Vancouver Canucks)
Mattias Weinhandl (Dynamo, RUS)
Henrik Zetterberg (Detroit Red Wings)

GOALTENDERS
Henrik Lundqvist (NY Rangers)
Jonas Gustavsson (Toronto Maple Leafs)
Stefan Liv(Jonkopin, SEL)

OLYMPICS 2010: Dates for Other Roster Announcements

Three countries have already made the announcements of their 2010 men's Olympic ice hockey rosters (Belarus*, Russia*, and Sweden*) which are 3 of the 12 nations to take part.

This is a list of dates for those and the rest (just in case you happen to be interested in this like I am):

DECEMBER 23rd*
Belarus

DECEMBER 25th*
Russia

DECEMBER 27th*
Sweden

DECEMBER 29th
Latvia, Norway and Slovakia

DECEMBER 30th
Germany, Finland, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and
Canada (broadcast LIVE)

JANUARY 1st
United States
(during the Winter Classic)

[UPDATE] Pre-Game Notes (Pittsburgh VS Toronto)

[UPDATE]
Bob and Steigy just announced the lineup for tonight's game and TK is, indeed, out of tonight's lineup; they're speculating that Bylsma is giving him the night off due to his scoring drought. Max Talbot takes his place on the 3rd line with Cooke and Staal (Godard on the 4th line with Adams and Rupp).

According to FSN - Pittsburgh, Tyler Kennedy could possibly be out of tonight's lineup (I have NO IDEA why -- when I hear word, it'll be posted here!!!

ALSO -- Penguins will wear their powder blue throwback jerseys tonight

MARK EATON
Eaton participated in practice last night at Southpointe, but reported after this morning's skate that he will remain out of the lineup for tonight's game against the Maple Leafs (his "undisclosed injury" would seem to be his knee if you look at what he had to say below):

It feels fine. The knee I don’t really consider it an issue right now. It is just getting the rust off from not skating for a week. I think yesterday and today have gone a long way in doing that. I look forward to getting a little more physical in practice tomorrow and testing it that way. It feels pretty good.

JORDAN STAAL
After wearing a full-face shield for the past two games to protect the injury he sustained on the bridge of his nose after being hit with a puck, Staal switched to a half-shield that he was instructed to wear during last night's practice. PPG has reported that he will later decide whether or not he wants to continue to wear some type of protection attached to his helmet. After watching things like this happen to players time and time again, I've found that those who have been hit while not wearing a shield usually decide to continue without protection after such an injury - it's just a matter of preference and it's been said to be a distraction to many after being used to nothing on their helmet; however, it hasn't seemed to hinder Staal and his level of play in the least!

According to PPG, Jordan didn't go home for Christmas, but got to show off his scar via web cam!! "Everyone seemed to love it a lot," he said.

LINE COMBINATIONS (projected from morning skate)
Dupuis-Crosby-Fedotenko
Guerin-Malkin-Kunitz
Cooke-Staal-Kennedy
Rupp-Adams-Talbot/Godard

Gonchar-Orpik
Skoula-Letang
McKee-Goligoski

Fleury in the net

Toronto Injury / Line Info

• Mike Van Ryn (D), knee injury - out for the remainder of the season
• Carl Gunnarsson (D), elbow injury - out until sometime shortly after New Year’s
• John Mitchell (F), knee injury - out until January
• Viktor Stalberg (F), shoulder problem - day-to-day

On this Date in Pittsburgh Penguins History

December 27, 2000

The Comeback -- return of Le Magnifique, #66, Mario Lemieux!!

Pre-Game Notes (Pittsburgh VS Ottawa)

LINE COMBINATIONS (projected)
Kunitz-Crosby-Guerin
Kennedy-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Dupuis
Rupp-Adams-Talbot

Gonchar-Orpik
Skoula-Letang
McKee-Goligoski

Fleury in net

CHRISTMAS CHEER
the Penguins are giving a Christmas stocking to all fans in attendance tonight

LIVE ACTION
I'll be at the Igloo for the second time this week - Merry Christmas to ME (I can't miss personally welcoming back one of my favorite [former Penguins] "pests")!! Let's hope they put on a better show for more than they did Monday!!

Ottawa Injury / Line Info

• Shean Donovan (F), knee - IR
• Jason Spezza (F), knee - IR
• Nick Foligno (F), knee - IR
• Chris Neil (F), knee - IR; however, a return tonight is likely according to reports
• Pascal Leclaire (G), fractured cheekbone - IR; however, a return tonight is likely according to reports

UP NEXT: OTTAWA SENATORS
(18-14-4, 40 points)
In net tonight: Pascal Leclaire (projected)
Storyline: Senators find renewed strength with possible return of at least two key players

Ottawa Senators webpage
PREVIEW: Senators and Penguins try to bounce back (12/23/2009)
Bulletin: Senators assign forward Josh Hennessy and goaltender Mike Brodeur to Binghamton (AHL) (12/22/2009)
Senators roster regaining health (12/22/2009)

Not many updated today, I'll be on my way to the game!!

Just Call Him "Warrior"

TRUE GRIT - a word that defines many great hockey players including each player making up the heart and soul of the Penguins team and there's no doubt that Jordan Staal possesses plenty of it. He now has the war scars to prove it.

Only five stitches to the nose laceration (they "glued" the rest) and, amazingly, it's not broken. He said it felt like his "nose was off." So I guess it felt (and looks) worse than it really is.

With his new look bearing a scar on the bridge of his nose and donning a full face shield, he's also acquired a new nickname from his teammates to match (and rightfully so): "Warrior."

“It shows that he’s a warrior and he’ll do anything to win,” Tyler Kennedy said. [another player on the team possessing TONS of grit and knows of what he speaks!]

I am continually impressed with Staal and the steady progression in his level of play (and to this day feel that it was a good move to sign him just as I did the day it happened). He's big and is gradually learning to use his size to his advantage, but when I saw him skate back onto the ice with the rest of the Pens before the start of the third period last Monday night, I was truly impressed along with everyone else in that arena!

Keep proving those doubters wrong, Staalsy!!

Off-Day Notes

• Mark Eaton didn't practice with the Penguins today (undisclosed injury) and his status is unknown for tomorrow's game against the Ottawa Senators, but it doesn't look promising.

He’s probably out seven days. We will wait and see how he responds to treatment. It’s not a serious injury. It’s going to be about a week or so. - HC Dan Bylsma

• Jordan Staal was on the ice today with his teammates after suffering a "nose laceration" in last night's game which isn't so remarkable when you consider that he returned to the game donning a full-face shield to continue playing in the third period (pictures from the Penguins webpage).
  
  

Can We Have a "Do-Over?"

OK - I guess we had opportunities for two of those with NJ already and we just didn't take advantage of them. How about we just forget about those games altogether?!! Seriously, what is it about the NJ Devils??? Is it just "the trap?" Really? I just can't figure it out!!

I was actually at the game last night.

They looked really good in the first period (I thought anyway) -- battling for the puck and having posession of it in their end for alot of the time and then it just all went down hill after that. The only thing I heard from John the rest of the time was, "they look like crap!"

One thing is for sure, Brodeur was on top of his game and, unfortunately for the Pens and us fans, he was able to break the league record for most career shut-outs (the only individual [goalie] record he hadn't broken up to this point) which now surpasses the previous record-holder and HOFer, Terry Sawchuk.

"I don't get nervous, but (tonight) I was a little nervous," he said after stamping this performance with a glove save on Penguins center Evgeni Malkin with 42 seconds remaining."

Being a hockey fan (and not just a Penguins fan), I guess that's one thing to be thankful for about being at the game last night -- I can say I was there for that particular accomplishment of his.

And you really can't take that away from Brodeur - he IS a kick-ass goalie.

Pre-Game Notes (Pittsburgh VS New Jersey) - Eaton Out

MARK EATON
Eaton left the game on Saturday and did not return for the remainder of the game; it was confirmed by HC Blysma that he will be out of the lineup tonight against the Devils.

"Mark Eaton will not be in the lineup tonight. He'll be evaluated by our doctors today. It's not long term at this point but we still need our doctors to take a look at him."

LINE COMBINATIONS (projected)
Kunitz-Crosby-Guerin
Dupuis-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Kennedy
Rupp-Adams-Talbot/Godard

Gonchar-Orpik
[Eaton]-Letang
McKee-Goligoski

Fleury in goal

New Jersey Injury / Line Info
Paul Martin (D), broken left forearm - IR (out indefinitely)
Dainius Zubrus (F), broken kneecap - IR
David Clarkson (F), broken bone above his ankle - IR

That's So MAF (the musings of a Penguins goalie)!

THANKS to soshana66 for letting me know the Penguins have video of this up on PensTV!!
Having fun is what it's all about, isn't it? I mean, I have a Timbits calendar with a quote from Crosby saying, "my first goal was having fun."

I honestly think that's part of the reason why the Penguins are such a successful, dominant, and unstoppable team - FUN (on and off the ice).

The biggest fun-seeker has got to be our star goalie Marc-Andre Fleury (everyone knows what a cut-up he is!)!! And this is just one example of that (from the PPG):

The Penguins often end practice with a shootout, which serves a purpose as a drill but also usually provides some fun.Goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, who sometimes gets a little silly, really put on a show with unconventional moves as players bore down on him.

A few times, he did a spin. [HAha] He stopped defenseman Sergei Gonchar after one of those. [WOW!!] Other times, he did a couple of quick pushups. [WHAT?!!]

Once, he turned his back to defenseman Mark Eaton and, looking over his shoulder, still made a stick save. [WTF?!!!! Are there any MAF-doubters now?]

I WANT My MTV Comcast!!!

Seriously, I have wished more than once Comcast to be the cable provider in Johnstown because it just seems like they offer their customers everything and MORE (as far as the sports channels I would like to have).


Well, here's an even bigger reason why I want Comcast ... customers in the Pittsburgh area got the NHL network in HD on Thursday!!

YOU LUCKY BASTARDS!!!!!!

That's So MAF (the musings of the Penguins goalie)!

I previously posted that Fleury was breaking in a new goalie mask that he would possibly be wearing during the 2010 Olympics for Team Canada.

He was asked if he has any ideas as to how he wants it painted, but he said he hasn't yet decided and that he's leaning toward paying homage to either goalie coach Gilles Meloche by replicating the paint job of one of his old masks (his Penguins mask is pictured above) or one of former Penguins goalie Tom Barrasso (one version pictured below).

Either would be SWEET and I think his honoring either of them by replicating their masks is a pretty neat idea!!

Bylsma and the Penguins Coaching Staff are Members of the KISS Army

Penguins HC Dan Bylsma and the rest of the coaching staff attended the KISS concert Sunday night at Mellon Arena.

"I am glad I went," Bylsma said. "I enjoyed it. KISS was not a band I was allowed to like when I was a young teenager and before that. I felt liberated last night."

After Kiss finished their song "Detroit Rock City," the crowd booed for their displeasure of the Red Wings. Bylsma was asked A) if Kiss should have played the song and B) if he liked the fact that Pittsburghers booed.

"We were commenting on the fact of whether they should have played it or not. They should have and yes I did."

Members of the band attended the Penguins game the night prior to the concert and spent time with Mario Lemieux in the owners' box (pictured below with Eric and Tommy).

• Wouldn't it make more sense for the Cryer fans to chant "Crosby sucks" when THEIR TEAM scores a goal and NOT when the Pens (particularly CROSBY) scores a goal??!!!! I don't get it.


• Is it just me or does Daniel Carcillo look like the villain in Rocky and Bullwinkle (Boris)???! OK -- how about [Super] Mario (or Luigi)???! NO?? Perhaps he was this month's loser of Philly's shootout drill at practice (we can only hope - it's awful!)!!

These were actually my thoughts this time around -- not our anonymous guest poster (who is currenlty MIA)!!

[UPDATE #2] Pre-Game Notes (Pittsburgh VS Philadelphia)

[UPDATE #2] BILL GUERIN
[UPDATE] The penguins webpage is reporting that Guerin was on the ice for this morning's skate and will, in fact, be in the lineup tonight against the Philadelphia Flyers -- GOOD NEWS (THANKS, Ed!)!!!

"It was a stinger type of thing," Guerin said. "It goes away. Its fine. I just wanted to get my skate off and get some ice on it."

[UPDATE] According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Dan Bylsma said he is "preparing like (winger Bill Guerin) is playing" for the Penguins tonight against the Flyers at Philadelphia.

His right skate boot was hit by a puck late in the third period on Tuesday night and Guerin did not finish the game.

no word on whether or not he'll be in the lineup tonight since hearing on WTAE-tv that he wasn't at practice yesterday -- I honestly would probably consider that their usual "maintenance day," but I'll be on the lookout and post any updates on it when I find them!

LINE COMBINATIONS (projected)
Kunitz-Crosby-Guerin (?)
Dupuis-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Kennedy
Rupp-Adams-Godard

Gonchar-Orpik
Eaton-Letang
McKee-Goligoski

Fleury in goal

Philadelphia Injury / Lines Info
three injured Flyers could return to Philly's lineup tonight: Simon Gagne, Blair Betts and Darroll Powe (I've read several reports that Betts return tonight)

• Ray Emery (G), abdominal surgery - out until mid-January
• Simon Gagne (F), hernia surgery - probably
• Braydon Coburn (D), ruptured cyst in his ankle - OK to play Tuesday and will be in the lineup tonight
• Ole-Kristian Tollefson (D), sprained left knee - out 3-4 weeks

UP NEXT: PHILADELPHIA FLYERS
(15-16-1, 31 points)
In net tonight: Brian Boucher (projected)

Philadelphia Flyers webpage
PREVIEW (12/16/2009)
Flyers Claim Goaltender Leighton (12/15/2009)
On the Fly! blog (12/16/2006)

The Philadelphia Inquirer
Flyers Notes: Flyers get good news from Betts (12/17/2009)
Flyers' Holmgren urges patience (12/17/2009)
Flyers can't solve riddle of Penguins (12/16/2009)

Philadelphia Daily News
Flyers coach Laviolette isn't looking for a trade (12/17/2009)
Frequent Flyers blog
Waiting for the shoe to drop (12/16/2009)

phillyBurbs.com
Richards questions team's heart (12/17/2009)
Flyers' Betts back in lineup (12/16/2009)
Laviolette agrees with captain's criticisms (12/16/2009)
Goalie Leighton returns to Flyers (12/16/2009)

Check back for updates throughout the day!!

Crosby Winner of Lou Marsh Memorial Trophy

For the second time during his short career, Crosby was named as this year's recipient of the Lou Marsh Memorial Trophy (Canada's Athlete of the Year). He was previously awarded the honor back in 2007.

The trophy is named in honor of a previous sportswriter and editor of the Toronto Star and is voted on each year by a panel of journalists from across the country.

Crosby was presented with the trophy in the team lounge after practice yesterday morning amongst his teammates.

"I realize this is an individual award, but without the effort of our team we wouldn't have won the Stanley Cup and the year would not have been as special as it turned out to be," Crosby said in a statement released before Tuesday night's home game against the Philadelphia Flyers in Pittsburgh

Afterwards Crosby shared some of the award's history with his teammates and them "being awed by the fact he'd been named (Canada's) athlete of the year," Hepburn said. "You could tell, for him, it was a really significant thing."

The trophy is housed in Canada's Sports Hall of Fame.

Here's a Juicy Tid Bit ...

And just in time for tonight's game!!!

According to The Philly Four blog (from "a credible source"), rumor has it that Flyers forward Jeff Carter had an affair with Scott Hartnell's wife, Lisa, and is a possible reason for the team's current disarray. Apparently, the team is "split over the situation."

Honestly, this just REEKS Philadelphia (they just have SO MUCH class - on and off the ice!)!!!

In a related allegation (also on The Philly Four blog), Danny Briere could be in the process of getting a divorce from his wife.

Bill Guerin Questionable for Tonight

According to the 11 o'clock WTAE-tv news, Bill Guerin did not participate in practice yesterday and is questionable for tonight's game.

He got hit in the foot / ankle area towards the end of the third period of Tuesday's game against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Mellon Arena.

I'll be sure to post any updates as I hear of them.

Rest Easy ... Staal is OK!

Last night was a good night for Jordan Staal (I just wish he would've been able to get a HT) except towards the end of the third period when he got hit with a puck from one of Malkin's shots. Although it looked bad the way he was wincing and bending over on the bench, it wasn't anything serious according to an article on the Penguins webpage.

... Staal was able to joke about the play after.

“I took it in my stomach,” Staal said. “Another great shot by Geno. I was just hoping it was going to bounce off me to Sid but it kind of stuck there. I guess I have been eating too much junk lately.

“I’m fine. It was a stinger and went away after a few minutes.”

It's those damn pierogies (but if they're gonna help him play like he has been lately, GIVE THE KID MORE!)!! Then again, we should've traded him anyway [she says as she rolls her eyes and laughs at how stupid some "fans" are!]!!!

Guerin was another player who was injured last night around the same time Staal was, but I haven't been able to find anything about that yet. When / if I do, I'll post it here (or if any of you have come across something, be sure to post it here!)!!

Pens
(23-10-1, 47 points)

Pens - 6, Flyers - 1

Philadelphia Flyers webpage
BOXSCORE (12/15/2009)

The Philadelphia Inquirer
Penguins pound Flyers in Pittsburgh (12/15/2009)

[UPDATE] Pre-Game Notes (Pittsburgh VS Philadelphia)

[UPDATE] LETANG ILL
the Penguins webpage reports that Letang is back on the ice today participating in morning skate.

Kris Letang missed practice yesterday due to illness, but is expected to be in the lineup tonight (the report is from yesterday, so if anything changes, I'll post updates here!)

"He was not feeling well," Bylsma said. "It's not injury related. He's just ill. He was sick (Sunday) night and this is a stay away from the rink. He should be better."

[UPDATE] LINE COMBINATIONS (projected)
the lines during the morning skate were as follows (pretty much as projected earlier):
Kunitz-Crosby-Guerin
Dupuis-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Kennedy
Rupp-Adams/Talbot-Godard

Kunitz-Crosby-Guerin
Dupuis-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Kennedy
Talbot-Adams-Rupp

Gonchar-Orpik
Eaton-Letang
McKee-Goligoski

Fleury in net

Philadelphia Injury / Lines Info
Dan Carcillo (F), returned last night from a 4-game suspension for punching Matt Bradley (Washington Capitals) in the face before having a chance to defend himself (back on December 5th)

Blair Betts (F), separated right shoulder - out 1-2 weeks (has missed last 10 games)
Simon Gagne (F), underwent surgery - out 1-3 weeks (missed the last 21 games)
Darroll Powe (F), strained shoulder - out 1-2 weeks (missed the last 11 games)
Braydon Coburn (D), ankle injury - listed as day-to-day (but has not missed any games)
Ray Emery (G), abdomen injury; surgery - out 6 weeks (missed the last 3 games)

UP NEXT: PHILADELPHIA FLYERS
(15-15-1, 31 points)
In net tonight: Johan Backlund (projected)
Storyline: tonight is Carcillo's second game back after [4-game] suspension; could sparks fly again with Talbot?

Philadelphia Flyers webpage
PREVIEW (12/14/2009)

Philly.com
Flyers Notes: Two Flyers return; one departs again (12/15/2009)

Philadelphia Inquirer
Broad Street Bull blog
For Flyers, a turning point? (12/14/2009)

Check back for updates throughout the day!!

That's So MAF (the musings of a Penguins Goalie)!

[UPDATE]
According to Rob Rossi:

He is not expected to wear the mask anytime soon, as it may be reserved for a Canada-themed paint job if, as expected, Fleury is named to the Canadian men's Olympic ice hockey squad later this month.

Fleury was trying out a new goalie mask yesterday at practice. It's looks odd because it's completely white without any painted designs on it.

"It’s something different that I’m trying out right now," Fleury said. "It’ll look better when it’s painted. I’m pretty sure I will (switch to this helmet). I have to make sure it’s ready first. The design of it, it’s comfortable. I don’t want it to be too different (from my old helmet)."

DON'T FORGET: Meet the Pens Tonight!

MONDAY, DECEMBER 14TH
6 PM - 8 PM

Meet Pascal Dupuis, Kris Letang, Brooks Orpik and former Penguin Phil Bourque

at Tom Clark Chevrolet!!

FREE autographs, raffles and memorabilia for sale. Proceeds benefiting the Tommy Wilson Foundation for Exceptional Children. TELL THEM TSCSF sent you!!

Tom Clark Chevrolet
1063 Long Run Road, Route 48
McKeesport, PA
412-751-2900

The Stanley Cup Still Making It's Rounds with the Penguins Organization

Believe it or not, the Stanley Cup is still in the hands of the Pittsburgh Penguins even though we're over a quarter past the new season.

On Wednesday, the illustrious hockey trophy made a stop in Mississauga, Ontario with team scout David McNamara (son of former GM of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Gerry McNamara - both pictured below).

McNamara is actually a Phys-Ed teacher by day and scout by night and is one of eight amateur scouts in Pittsburgh organization.

“This is proof that you can do whatever you want,” said McNamara as he walked through the front door of his home with the Stanley Cup in his hands.

Defenseman Milestone

CONGRATULATIONS to Jay McKee for recording his 100th career assist during last night's game against the Canadiens on Dupuis' game-winning goal in the third period!!

Pre-Game Notes (Pittsburgh VS Montreal)

RETURN OF GOLIGOSKI
the Penguins webpage recently reported that Alex Goligoski WILL return and be in tonight's lineup against the Canadiens (the Pens are almost back to 100%)!!

LINE COMBINATIONS (projected)
Talbot-Crosby-Guerin (although Rupp has spent some ice time here and it was also mentioned that Dupuis was seen on the line during morning skate as well)
Dupuis-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Kennedy
Rupp-Adams-Godard

Gonchar-Orpik
McKee-Letang
Eaton-Skoula

Fleury in net

Montreal Injury / Lineup Info:

• Brian Gionta (F), broken foot bone - out indefinitely
• Benoit Pouliot (F), wrist injury - indefinitely
• Andrei Markov (D), several damaged led tendons - out until at least February
• Paul Mara (D), upper body injury - left Monday night’s game and did not play on Tuesday night
• Jaroslav Spacek (D), right kneew - left the game Tuesday after stopping a shot

SORRY for the Inconsistency!

I'm usually better about blogging and getting updates of the latest Penguins news, but I've been having a few things go on lately that has kept me from doing so (running around like a mad-woman for one! I guess it's just that time of year!)!! Today I had to take my poor little doggie to the vet as we were afraid he was going to die, but he's a resilient little bugger and it was something that is treatable (THANK GOODNESS!)!!

Anyway, PRE-GAME NOTES coming shortly (like the next 5-10 minutes), so check back soon!!

TSCSF Q & A with Steve Mears

Steve Mears ("Mearsy") is quickly becoming another one of my favorite Penguins broadcasters / personalities. I've been enjoying his work on the Penguins new HD2 radio show as well as appearances he makes on shows like the Penguins pre-game show that I'm pretty sure will have a long career ahead of him with the organization - he's just a really great guy that has had an interesting career so far (and still stays pretty gounded).

For those of you who may not know, Steve Mears is a hometown guy who is incredibly knowledgeable about not only the Penguins, but all the NHL teams and hockey in general. Prior to returning to Pittsburgh to work with the Penguins this season, Mears was the play-by-play announcer for the NY Islanders since 2006. He was previously the voice for the CHL Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs for four seasons beginning in 2002 after graduating from Bowling Green where he was voice of the Falcons for three years prior to that.

His selection as the "CHL Broadcaster of the Year" in 2005 is one among many of his accomplishments.

I wanted to know a little bit more about him and his career prior to returning home to work with the Penguins, so I decided to ask if he'd mind answering a few questions for me [the blog]. He was nice enough to accept, so I'm posting his answers here to share with all of you. I'd like to thank Steve for his taking time out of his busy schedule to do me this great honor and answering my questions (big time for such a little blog!)!! THANK YOU, Steve!!

• TSCSF: How did the opportunity come about for you to work with the Penguins (was it originally the radio station?)? And who's idea was the radio station (was it something that you 'pitched' to the Penguins organization?)?
• Steve Mears (SM): I had heard of the HD Radio station idea at the annual NHL Broadcast meetings and thought it was an amazing idea. When the Islanders decided to cut costs and move their radio to a simulcast, I was looking for a new opportunity and the Penguins were the first team I wanted to talk to. The HD Radio station was really intriguing and I'm thankful that they wanted to bring me to Pittsburgh to be a part of it.


• TSCSF: You and Tom Grimm have great on-air chemistry [on the new Penguins HD2 radion station]! Did you and he know each other previously or is that something that develops as you work with him on the station?
• SM: No, we met only when we first started working for the Penguins. It's been a lot of fun working with him and the chemistry is always a work in progress. He works hard and does his homework and that always helps. He's a great partner to have for the show and brings a different perspective than I do, which is perfect.


• TSCSF: How do you prepare for the Live show (and is that something you do daily for each show?)?
• SM: I usually prepare the night before and "map out" which segments we're going to do and the order we'll do them in. Usually, if the Pens have a game, that dictates the direction of the show.


• TSCSF: I read you'll be the new host of "Inside Penguins Hockey," how did that come about and do you enjoy working that side of it (getting more one-on-one time with the players?)?
• SM: Once I started with the Penguins, they wanted to get me involved with a couple of TV shows they were producing. So far, it's been a blast and yes, having a more informal show with the players makes it great. It's not your usual "press conference" type setting, so we have a lot of fun with it.


• TSCSF: How does your current job with Pittsburgh differ, if at all, from the one you had with the Islanders?
• SM: Well with the Islanders, I was the play-by-play voice of the team, so that's a big change. But, following a team closely and working on a game-to-game basis is the same thing. Instead of broadcasting the games, I broadcast Penguins Live every morning.


• TSCSF: I just caught the first Dan Bylsma show (LOVE IT!) -- who came up with the ideas for the different segments?
• SM: I think our producer Chris Devivo had a lot to do with the format. What makes that show great is the fact that Dan is entertaining, informative, and willing to share so much with Penguins fans. I know I learned a lot after doing the first show!


• TSCSF: I know you can skate (I saw that on the DB show!), but did you ever play hockey (or any other sports)?
• SM: I played hockey as a kid in Murrysville and still play when I get the chance. I always liked baseball, but hockey was my favorite...either on the ice, driveway, roller rink, etc.


• TSCSF: Who was the most interesting player you've ever interviewed and why?
• SM: That's tough. I'd say Bryan Trottier because of his amazing career and outgoing personality.


• TSCSF: What sports personalities (players, announcers, others) are you fascinated by and why?
• SM: Any of the great play-by-play broadcasters are a joy to talk to. Me getting to work with Mike Lange with this job is like a young player coming to the Penguins and talking to Mario Lemieux about hockey.


• TSCSF: Who would you most like to interview and why?
• SM: I've actually never interviewed Mario before, so he would be the guy since he's always been my hockey idol.


• TSCSF: How much, if any, time do you spend with the players? Have you worked with any of them prior to working in Pittsburgh?
• SM: I was with Guerin and Fedotenko when I was with the Islanders. Both guys are great and Billy is truly one of my favorite people in hockey. We get to see them after practice and we chat with them in the locker room. Not much beyond that, but it's always fun to just talk with them and see what they're thinking.
  



• TSCSF: I read that you started watching hockey in the 90's (we have that in common), what exactly was it that drew you in that made you want to turn it into a career?
• SM: The hockey aspect was because the Penguins were so good right when I started following it (1991). The broadasting aspect was simply because of Mike Lange and because he was so good.


• TSCSF: What goals do you still have as far as broadcasting / your job is concerned (or have you achieved them / what are they?)?
• SM: My ultimate goal was just to broadcast games in the NHL and I'm really fortunate that I had the chance to do that when I was 26. Now, I'm just enjoying being a Penguin, being back home, and doing some different things outside of play-by-play, which I did for 10 years at various levels. Between the TV shows and Penguins Live, I've been really busy and I'm having a lot of fun. And the Penguin fans that I've met have treated me incredibly well. Not that I'm surprised! :)


• TSCSF: I know the Islanders are pretty liberal with media, etc., and heard about their "bloggers box" for bloggers to sit at during games. Are you familiar with how that worked (was it a good thing for the organization?) and do you see something like that working with the Penguins?
• SM: As far as the Blog Box, it was an interesting idea and definitely some "outside the box" thinking by the Islanders. I know they encountered some obstacles, so I don't think other teams should do it exactly the way they did it. But some variation could definitely be successful.