Peter's Line Looks Good To Me

I didn't get a chance to see the 1st period, but the 2nd period action has been entertaining, with exception of that unlucky PP goal by the Canucks. The Sakic-Forsberg-Hejduk line seems to be gelling like it were 2000. Kind of troubling that they have no goals to show for all the slick passing. (As the YB pointed out, you can almost hear fans yell "Shoot It" through the TV.) That will come soon, no doubt. Hopefully here in the 3rd period.

Win or lose, it's great to see Sakic and Forsberg skating again. Go Avs!!!

3 More Years of Hawpe

Sounds like the Rocks and Hawpe have agreed to a 3-year deal (going through the arbitration years) with a team option to extend into the first free agent year. Another move that looks like the team has a plan to commit multi-year deals with a sizable amount of jack to good young players, without totally breaking the bank.

If Holliday and Atkins get extension deals, Rockies fans might have to change their tune about management....keep up the good work boys....

Five days until DT and myself head to Tucson to check out some Cactus League action.

Put Your Helmet On, Son

Jesus, that hit was brutal. Not dirty, just a brutal hit on another Av player. Hope Smyth is alright. Great win, but kind of costly. Not too much Svatos, too much Svatos better be alright. And here's to Ryan Smyth knowing what country he's in...I dedicate tomorrow's headache to RS.

I'm Now the Old Guy at the Meat Puppets Show

A couple of nights ago, the legendary SST band and KTH darlings, the Meat Puppets graced the stage of the Gothic Theatre in Denver. It's been about 15 years since I've last seen the Puppitos play live and I must say they did not disappoint. While the set was a tad short (they were opening for Built to Spill), the set list was pretty satisfying. After opening with the epic Touchdown King, they ripped through other classics such as Lake of Fire, Up on the Sun, Sam, and Plateau.

And while the band didn't seem to have skipped a beat (even with a new drummer), there was something distinctively different about seeing the Pupps again after all of these years. At past shows, I always seem to remember being a youngster at a show largely populated by an older crowd. Well, I guess I've now become that older guy who is probably a little too stoked when I hear the opening bars of Up on the Sun. I wondered if many of the 20-something crowd even noticed that Curt Kirkwood is now playing a Strat, instead of the classic sunburst Les Paul. Well, I surely did, but I'm just one of those old dudes at a Meat Puppets show.........rock on brothers.

my can teams?

I fear the Tooth will be on my heals with his own blog, but ahhhh.... the heck with it.

Nice having a boring NBA game, sort of, with the Nug Pups dominating the Emerald City powerhouse known as the Sonics. Didn't watch too much of this game, but did notice that the hapless Nugs still enjoy the slam dunk aspect of the game. Shall the Nugs make the playoffs? Seriosly, its friggin ridiculous that the nugs are even in this position (the 9th postion coming into today).

Respek my Avs!!! They on the other hand are pretty enjoyable to watch. However, we had no business getting a point in this game, let alone two. Both of the Vancover gaols were pretty much a result of our inabilty to clear the puck, not a net minding mistake. Though, so was Sakic's tying goal. Avs fever has offically broken out at 39th and Osceolla.

This should be a pretty intriguing next couple of weeks with what's his name coming back... and I'm not talking about Kroll.

That said, I am looking forward to a little pre-season das boot play... can I consider Das Boot a Can Team yet?

Feels Like the Playoffs

Wow - A HUGE 2 points tonight for the Avs!! It looked mighty bleak until the Duke fired a sweet shot to convert a very rare PP goal. The momentum changed at that point and the Avs controlled OT and came through with yet another (gasp) PP goal. Hells yeah!! Props to Ryan Smyth for that sweet no-look pass to assist on the game winner. Props to Theo for some solid net-minding.

Oh, most definitely, it was great to see Footer back in an Avs sweater. Super Joe looked better in game 2. Dito Stastny, who made a great pass and moving pick on the Duke goal and comes up with the game winning tap-in. All I can see is Hells Yeah! Huge win.

But the real reason I know it felt like a playoff game is that I was scaring my dog with every scream, yelp, and body contortion. Just hope I can experience some real playoff stress. (Why, I'm not really sure.)

Keep it going tomorrow in the BC tomorrow....I seemed to remember we dominated up there our last visit....cue ST post. (Where is my Warren Rychel jersey?)

FOPPA: Bringing It All Back Home

It came as quite of a surprise to hear that Peter the Great signed with the Avs for the remainder of the season. Of course I'm happy to hear the news. It kind of warms the heart to know that Peter chose the Avs over other teams that I'm sure were willing to take a chance at the one time MVP. However, I think my joy would be more pronounced if the sting of last night's playoff bed-shitting loss to the Crude wasn't still fresh in my memory. I might also get more excited if the Avs announce the signing of a burly defensemen to replace the obvious deficiency on the blue line with the losses of Clark and Finger. However, this move on its own doesn't make me think we still only have an outside chance of getting into the playoffs. All of that said.....

While Forsberg's health is still an obvious question mark, let us not forget that 2002 playoff run after Peter missed almost the entire regular season recovering from a ruptured spleen, only to end up leading all playoff scorers. If the Avs make a couple of more moves, along with return of Sakic and the addition of Forsberg, things could get interesting. First things first. The Avs desperately need to get at least 3 points out of the next two game in Calgary and Vancouver.......Welcome home Peter.

C'Mon Super Sid?

Jesus, that's an embarrassing loss tonight for the Nugs. I love the Bucks and all, but I feel shame the way we didn't even show up the second half. Karl is starting to really be called into question. This team DOES NOT RUN at all. And if they don't follow that formula, they are a horrible team. Lazy, lazy, lazy. And you blow a 20 point lead against one of the worst teams in the league. Doesn't spell playoff success to me.

Best SI cover EVER.

Anyone seen my McLeod sweater?

Wow. What an ending down in PHX. Avs should have had that game won in regulation with a lead and some solid play for most of the 3rd period. Kind of let things slide a bit with 2.8 seconds left in the game though. Typical.

One OT period and 12 SO shooters later, a tough guy comes through, and Jose is (finally) able to hold the counter shot to win the game. Too bad the fucking Wings couldn't beat the fucking Flames. The season is becoming a perpetual uphill climb.

Put in Vernon

More than 190+ minutes against the Red Wings without scoring 1 friggin goal!!! What the hell? KTH was calling for Osgood the first two meetings, now that we've got'em, we still can't put the buscuit in the basket. In the prvious games, the case could be made for either the offense or defense not showing up. Now neither of them seem to be bringing it. It's going to be might tough (impossible) to come back from a 4-0 deficit here in the beginning of the 3rd. Things ain't looking good for this 9th place can team all of a sudden.

On a brighter note, Lappy injured their beloved Lindstrom.

Breakfast With The Avalanche

These Sunday morning 11am start times are a bit bizarre, but what the hell. My guess is that NHL schedulers didn't want to compete with the Sunday night American Gladiators finale. Fair enough. Still, something doesn't feel entirely right about hockey and coffee.....beer? Coffee......The Avs come out of the gate flying, but then Arnason whiffs on a wide open net leading to an odd man rush the other way. Liles draws a penalty on the breakaway and of course the Hawks cash in the PP. Seems to be the way of the Avs quite a bit lately. I like their energy, but squandering scoring chances is becoming routine....

On a separate note, there is an awful lot of talk in this morning's paper about the possibility of Fogg coming back to the Rox to compete for the 5th spot or as a long reliever. Make it happen, O'Dowd.

My Birthday Totally Sucked Shit!

Thanks, Manny. Thanks for totally ruining my birthday. Sure, the team started the game very sluggish and sloppy and probably deserved to be trailing after the first period. But, you have to admit; we had some pretty great chances and threw a lot of pucks on net, even in the first when we more or less were playing like shit. And then that 3rd period. What the hell, bro?? We turned the Can into a shooting gallery and still you only yield one measly goal. Fuck you, man. Whatever happened to those days when you were on the Wings and, like, totally sucked shit. Whatever you went and did in the interim, I'm not backing it. Did I mention it's my birthday today? No amount of "birthday" Pilsner Urquell you buy me down at Monarch is going to make up for your performance tonight.

I'm holding you personally accountable for playing out of your mind tonight and totally fucking up my birthday and the evening for Avs fans everywhere.

Sincerely,

Milan

PS - I know what you're thinking and the answer is yes, this is my senior picture from high school.

Sweating in Miami, Duck Hunting in D-Town

Tonight is yet another staggered start time, double dip evening of Can Team action. With about half of the 4th quarter left, the Nug Pups are struggling to pull out the win against the lowly Miami Heat. JR Smith is having a career game with almost 30 points right now, including eight 3-pointers. This is the type of game the Nugs can't afford to lose. Maybe they could borrow some of those 30 excess points they didn't really need in Sunday night's blowout victory over the LeBron and the Cavs.

As the nba action winds down, the Avs are getting things going against the piping-hot Ducks over at the Can. Stastny is still not back in the lineup. Apparently he's now suffering from a groin injury. I've got your groin right here. Could use all of the firepower possible aginst the defending Cup champs.

Let's go Can Teams.....

1 more year for G-Dawg

Some really good news right before spring training gets underway. Atkins will return for at least one more year, earning 4.38 mil. This would be quite a steal if Garrett can reproduce his usual solidness. Let's not forget how crappy he started off the season last year; if he were to have had just a mediocre first 2-3 months last season, his numbers would've probably been just as good as Holiday's (and Rollins's for that matter). Anyhoo, it's good to know that the front office is sticking with players who have already proven themselves at Coors Field.

On a side note, Mr. Fuentes wants more than 2 million more than what Atkins got. Are you kidding Brian? I hope O'Dowd can recollect how he almost single-handedly blew the season for us during a single road-trip before the all-star break. Give him 2 to 3 mil, and tell him shut his trap (Fuentes rants have already begun, it must be close to opening day!).

Hopefully we can get Hawpe signed soon as well (just so I can get my Nickelback fix).

Luongo is HATING it.........

AAARRRGGGHH. What's with this Svatos bullshit??? 5 goals against after 2? How am I going to get laid with those stats?

You, My Friend, Are Getting Shelled

I'm enjoying this latest version of the Avs' road show. Props to the kids. Svatos, Clark, Hejduk, Theo, etc., well done. Lappy bringing some blows. The 'Nucks look sorry.

Sataurday night in Canada, eh?!?!

The Hookers Tipped the Scales Towards CU

It would nice to believe all of the reports that CU's landing of coveted RB prospect Darrell Scott was a result of the recruiting brilliance of Coach Hawkins and Darian Hagen. But, can anyone help but think maybe the hookers, ehhmm escorts, that participated in any sanctioned or unsanctioned recruiting parties helped sway young Mr. Scott. Thank god things are back to normal. This ain't intramurals, after all!

Another Double Header Evening

God, I hope this picture is somehow fake. No fooling that for the second night out of the last 3, both the Avs and Nuggets are on the tube with nicely-staggered start times. The Nugs have made a nice 2nd half comeback to tighten things up after doing their best Washington Generals impersonation on defense during the 2nd quarter. They do that a lot I've noticed.



Meanwhile, the Avs play one of the most hard-working periods I've seen of late, but only lead the Sharks 1-0 going into the 2nd. The way they dominated, they should have more to show for it. Theo is back in the pipes, but has only had to turn away a few shots. If the Avs maintain the intensity, I like their chance to snag a huge road win. Lots of pucks to play still.

Might want to also mention the Buffs (my Buffs?) signed the top RB recruit in the country today. Face Longhorns!

Looks Like I'll Have to Record American Gladiators

Damn, there are some good options on the tube tonight. The Avs and (suddenly league elite) Coyotes are already under way and the action is high-flying. Still no score, but with the barrage of shots going on, that can't last long. Budaj is still in goal tonight, but it sounds like Theo may be back soon. (I guess this is officially something to look forward to, considering his play before his back totally spazzed out.)

Second on the bill is a key matchup between AI and the Nuggets and, hmmm(?), whahhh(?), somebody must be sort of good on the Blazers. Shows what I know about the nba - can't even name a single player (I'm pretty sure the Arvydas Sabonis days are long gone), except that injured rookie Greg Odem. Anyhoo, should be a compelling game to watch if the Nuggets decide to show up, which is always a crapshoot.

Lastly, the final 8 of American Gladiators is on right now. I've got my DV-R rolling and will probably have to wait until later this week to watch. I wonder if Larry Csonka has sobered up enough to tune in after last night's super bowl upset and his '72 Dolphins celebration.......

Even Hurdle says, 'HELLS YEAH!'

Okay, I think it's safe to blog now, with a 4 goal lead at the can... unless they put a certain Brian Fuentes in net to wrap this victory up. Sorry for that last comment; it was totally (or most definitely) related to some premature spring traning fever.

Anyway, it was a good ass kicking by the Avs tonight during this snowy night in Denver. Milan, Marek, Andrew, hell everyone was scoring tonight. Mind you, it was against a pretty piss-poor Blackhawk squad, but we'll be more than happy to take the points while our big-time players are recovering from their injuries.

However, before this ass-smokin was official, the nug pups (TroutDog's Nug Pups) had a nice little comeback in the armpit of a town known as Memphis (actually I've never been, but have only heard of its armpittedness). AC is turning out to be a solid 2 guard, frequently coming up some huge buckets down the stretch. AI, well he's the answer: another solid game.

Well done Can teams!

Bush really likes the surge in Iraq

... and the Nug pups got their ass smoked.

Which one did you watch?

Bang A Gong

I guess when you're missing your top 3 stars, you'll have nights like this. The Avs take one on the chin this evening at home. But as ST and I agreed midway through the 3rd period while sucking back some High Life Lights, it's less painful to lose 4-0 than to lose 1-0. Defensive breakdowns were commonplace and the offense couldn't turn the tide when it was still a game. Tonight's game would have certainly received a gong from Chuck Barris early in the 3rd period.

TroutDog will be at the Can for the big divisional showdown Thursday night against the Wild. Win that game and tonight's loss is ancient history.

Lock him up...

According to the Rockies website the new contract for Tulo is a done deal. 6 years $30mil...could (should) be an amazing steal for the Rox. I like this move A LOT.
This is encouraging from a franchise standpoint to see. Here's hoping the question mark at second base isn't a problem next year...would love it if Marcus Giles pans out, and continues terrorizing Coors Field with his bat, only now with the home-team.
Cue up the R. Kelly (or whatever that lame batting-entrance music is that Tulo had last year...)
Now, how about some extensions for Hawpe & Atkins?

The Answer Indeed

Not quite Nick Nolte, but a pretty decent mug....... I only saw the final quarter of this game, but the Nuggets can thank AI for pulling this one out. The staff at Footlocker might also deserve some of the credit. (To be fair, there were some questionable calls both for and against the Nuggets late in the game. This is the NBA after all.) Down the stretch, AI was the only Nugget that seemed confident with the rock. Melo? Not so much. His clutchness doesn't seem to be quite what it used to be. Make no mistake, that Allen cat can ball in crunch time. I bet he might even give Prince a decent run one-on-one.

This win is nice, but the fact that the Nuggets don't win comfortably at home against the worst team in the West is a little troubling. As usual, we seem to play up to and down to the competition. A loss tonight would've been pretty devastating. The Nuggets can forget about this one and be glad with the victory.

Off topic, but I'm sort of pleased to see the Holliday deal. Not huge news, but hopefully a sign of things to come. Word.

Foppa Can You Hear Me?

This is the most kick-ass date ever!!!

But really.....not all that much too much to complain about down at the Can tonight, except for maybe the officiating and lack of offensive output. For a team that is essentially playing 60 minutes short-handed, spending extra time in the sin bin doesn't equate to victories. Can't feel too terrible with getting a point out of tonight's game, but two would've been sweet. Lappy's fight was entertaining. Too bad Sonically Tardy Tooth missed both goals and the fight.

Speaking of the need for extra fire power, a certain Peter Forsberg is looking for a team. Count this post as one old-time fan's vote to bring back one of the top three best Avs ever. (Super Joe and Patty being the other two, OBVI!! Apologies to Ray Borque, Craig Wolanin, and Warren Rychel.) I believe we have some cap room and I imagine Peter the Great would give some preference to the Avs. Hell, even give him back his former Golden Triangle penthouse suite. Who knows, maybe the Meat Puppets would even play during intermission of the first game back when he dons the Avs sweater. (ST-The Not too much reference is MP-related I've found....brilliant!)

Can Peter McNabb's hard-on be far behind? (No pun intended.)

You Will Respect My Shutout

I'm not really qualified to ramble too much about this game, as I was unable to watch all but a smidge of it. But, 3 straight road wins, Theo's first shutout since 2004, and TWO power play goals are all very noteworthy. What started out as a disaster of a roadtrip has become a decent success, thanks to collecting the last 6 points that were on the table. Maybe more importantly, this team may have rediscovered its scoring touch and confidence without its two offensive veteran stars in the lineup. Sonic Tooth and I will be in the Can Fri night for the matchup with the B-Hawks and will try to help keep the team's mojo going. I suspect our main contribution will consist of drinking stadium brews in the 350. You're welcome, Avs.....

No comment on the pitiful Nuggets performances the last two nights. If they don't make the playoffs (which seems quite possible right now), that would be a large embarrassment. Maybe their minds are on Nene. Wake up fellas.

Not too much Svatos. Too much Svatos.

I must admit, I didn't watch a lot of the 3rd period comeback, after being quite frustrated with the squad: our first game in a while that we actually score goals, and now our defense has a hick up. It seemed like everytime we'd put one in the net, the 'canes immediately answered.

But Svatos is still keeping this team alive in this weird abominable state the avs seem themselves in (at least offensively). 2 goals from Svatos last night; or as I like to call him MVP Marek.

Hopefully we can keep the momentum going into Florida tonight/afternoon.

Come on super avs!

Avs Power Outage

That circle should be drawn around the Avs' offense. One goal in the last two games, ain't going to get it done, even when Theo is actually doing some fine net-minding.

More specifically, that circle should be drawn around the Avs' power play. Zero for the last twenty chances is down right pathetic.

The Avs did have some pretty great chances in the final few minutes after getting a quick goal late, right after the Caps took a 2-0 lead, but it was more of the familiar-looking almost, but not quite offensive surges. Where was that offensive pressure and energy during the first 55 minutes?

While the D is playing very solid right now, the roadie has thus far been a big disappointment. The playoffs seem to be slipping away during Sakic and Smyth's absence. Losing to the Wings is one thing (they outclass just about everyone in the league), but getting zero points in a game against the Caps is not what this team needed right now. Too many damn one goal losses, where they could be earning a minimum of one point in the standings. These are going to hurt down the road.

Would someone please step it up on the offense?? (I'm looking at everyone on the team with the exception of Svatos.)

Hot Nuggets!!!

No, not the ones that come out of your ass, but the ones that play b-ball here in Denver. TD, Flow-Blow, and myself took in the game this evening at the can to witness the beat down of the 76ers. Pretty fun game, although the Nuggets looked a little sloppy on the offensive end... no matter though, as AI's sharp shooting and Melo's big 1st half were enough to put away the opposition.

I must say that it's very noticable when Camby is on the bench, in that the Nugs completely stop getting rebounds. We'll be screwed if anything happens to him.

After the 3rd quarter, the 3 of us snuck down to the lower level to get a better glimpse of the NBA action (and after getting busted by one usher on our fist attempt). Fortunately for all of us at KTH, I got close enough to snap another award winning photo for our blog (see above)... enjoy!

"I'm a whiny-ass bitch"

Good god, my Felipe Rios-hatred cup runneth over. After the jawing with Cutler on Xmas eve and casually watching tonight's Chargers/Titans game, I can fairly confidently say my Marmalard (thanks to KSK for that amazing Animal House analogy) hate is high.

From a Broncos standpoint it's nice to have rivalry fuel. Not to mention if the Chargers and the Patriots meet down the road in the AFC championship, there's the remote chance that Gillette Stadium gets leveled by a natural disaster or a terrorist attack...which would be nice.

Marek , you earned this beer.

Sweet OT backhander from Marek Svatos tonight to give the Avs a huge 2 points (every point is huge until (if) Sakic comes back). Leopold also getting a critical pound it in goal (I believe Phil Jackson likes to call them Brokeback Mountain goals). Almost went point less with a few flurries of shots late in regulation; late penalties almsot killng us again. Jose looking like his was 2 years ago in the playoffs. I think McNabb touched on a good point in the pregame, that these youngsters have to find their own identity without the veteran superstars like Sakic and Smyth. If anything the experience will make Stansny, Svatos, and Wolski better players.

A fine game to all! Captain, any first person comments?

No need to be sad.

I guess I'll do a short post on the Nugs win last night, even though we've already commented on it a bit. Like TD said it's always a rarity to beat the Spurs, so we must savor it (despite the foreign flopper being injured). Although, we did let them come back after being up by like 16 (i think it was 16), the victory was nice.

I think we now can see how good this team can be with all of our bigmen healthy; no longer getting killed by offensive rebounding.

Fuckin'-A right sad Duncan face (tough to find one on the web)!

I Miss Super Joe (and will for some time unfortunately, unless i pitch down for a Fathead)

This season is starting to slip away.

Not sure what to say...the D has not helped out the goaltender enough, offensive flurries don't produce as much as they should, our powerplay flat sucks, and we seem to get either a good start and blow it, or make a nice comeback (like tonight) only to lose. Losing to the Kings on Saturday sucked bad. (just ask the Ive...or Jose, in a rare start) but 1 point total in two games against the Coyotes is a fucking embarrassment for an Avs team - that for awhile, acted like they were going to contend in the NW.

Close games (if you don't count all the empty netters piling up and skewing the final scores) getting away....are mighty disconcerting.

TD and I were at the Kings game on Saturday, and it seemed like a game that should have been easy (the Kings used to suck!...what a difference a week makes), and even with a mere 1 goal lead after 2 periods it appeared like a game that the Avs were destined to win.

Nah...

Sakic Has Left the Building

Or is that Elvis? Hard to tell from this pic of Super Joe sporting an unusually vibrant pompadour. Anyway, the Avs have really struggled since the announcement that Joe was going to be gone for an additional 2-3 months. For the latest heartbreaking loss, they were also without Ryan Smyth, who is still awaiting word on the ankle he injured in the New Year's Eve shootout loss to the suddenly fierce 'Yotes. Not counting empty net goals, all of these last 4 four losses have been by 1 goal, which makes me think a bounce here or there and we could be having a different conversation. However, the difference to me seems to be the inept power play and porous PK. This is glaring problem that needs to be fixed quickly. Playoff (and certainly Stanley Cup) contenders do not rank near the bottom on both sides of special teams. Maybe the Avs can bring in Scott O'Brien from the Broncos to help special teams.

No matter how you slice it, getting 1 point in the last 4 games (3 at home) against only 1 team currently in the playoffs is an official slide and cause for concern. I was hoping for at least 5 in the last three games. These lost points may be crucial down the stretch. Worse yet, the Avs have a 5 game roadie waiting on the other end of the Sat showdown with the Isle. Considering their road record this season, this is not boding well for the team in the burgundy and blue sweaters.

On a side note, I was kind of blown away to see/hear a taco bell commercial several times tonight featuring Joe Jackson's "One More Time." Whahhhhhh??

Broncos win the Super Bowl!

Well not really, but it sure felt like that as TD, myself, and many other Denver fans exited Invesco last night, hootin and hollerin. No half priced beer anymore though... wha?

After the 1st quarter crappiness, the Broncos looked solid on both sides of the ball. Like I've said in the past, just give the ball to Young and watch him get 1st downs and open up the passing game. Marshall also had a pretty good game; making some pretty dope catches. And Cutler looked better than he had in the past couple of games, only making just a few mental errors (that ones for you YB and captain). Shanny tried to mess up the game it seemed by not kicking a ~50 yard field goal to pretty much secure the victory (what a mastermind!!!).

TD and I decided to move down to the lower level mid way through the 4th, about 15-20 rows up in the NE corner. Pretty cool being right there next to where all of the big OT plays were(turnover and field goal). The Turnover was obviously the biggest play of the game (obvi, right?). In short, FACE Viking fans (there were plenty of them in attendance)!!

The early evening flurry put another cool touch on the game.

Some High Flying NBA Action

Not going to be too verbose...I'm pretty tuckered on wine and a full day of burning some of my vinyl collection to my laptop's iTunes library.

The W's and the Nugs can often be classified in the "fun to watch" category of NBA hoops, and tonight's game did not disapoint. It was a free-wheeling, fast breaks galore, up-tempo affair; and the Nugs can thank the fact that the W's 3-point shooting faltered in the end for their down-to-the-wire victory. (though I was a bit scared every time the Warriors were launching those bombs)

AI, Melo, and Kleiza (off the bench) carried the Nuggets offensively...per usual, Camby providing many many boards. Black Flag and MDC provided blasts from my past in 7" format.

Put in Osgood

Pretty obvious the Red Wings do not suck in the conventional sense of the word.

Hard fought loss last night for the Avs. While it was a highly-entertaining game, it stings not to get at least a point out of that effort. It's definitely not the Avs-Wings rivalry of old with all of the brawling, but the game did seem to have a little more intensity than a normal regular season game. To me, it looked like the Avs had better chances, but the Dominator outplayed Budaj. Need to stop one of those first two goals, Peter.

Bad news also surfaces with word that Super Joe will undergo surgery and be out 2-3 months. Ouch. Time for some of the youngsters and newly acquired vets to step it up (I'm looking at you Hannan). Svatos' play lately has been encouraging. With the next three games against the Kings and Coyotes, it is almost paramount to pick up 5 or 6 points in the next week.

When the (Broncos) World Is Running Down.....

You make the best of what's still around. For those in KTH-land, that means acknowledging that the Broncos have already packed it in for the season, so it's time to focus on the Avs and Nuggets. Both are sitting in first place at the moment and undoubtedly enjoying a little holiday break the last couple of days. The Broncos too appeared to be on vacation Monday night when they got thumped by the Bolts in front of a (one can only imagine largely disinterested) national audience. Let's recap shall we. In two games against the Chargers, the Broncos offense has garnered a grand total of 2 field goals while getting outscored 64-6. If that's not an embarrassing mark, I'm not sure what is. Consider that this particular opponent is a division rival who, at one point of the season at least, we thought the B'cos would be in competition with for the AFC West. Guess not. The only thing interesting at this point about the Broncos' season is how high they'll be in the draft and what type of offseason shakeup takes place. Shanny needs to be held accountable for this mess. If he isn't canned (which he won't be), he needs to be at least stripped of some of his control.

But I digress.....This was supposed to be a positive post about the first place Avs and Nuggets, who, by the way, both had exciting and important wins Sunday night. While the folks over at Invesco spend another post-season on the outside looking in, at least they're smiling at the Pepsi Center.

Bushwood CC to kick off season with Member's Only Tournament

That right fellas. Let the shit talking begin and get those power sheets in order.

cj kiper

Anthony Carter to the Rescue

I have no idea why a home Nuggets game is still on when I get home at 11:30pm. I also have no idea why it's a pretty awesome finish with heroics by former Michigan University wide receiver (Who came up with this positional name anyway? It's obvious why the term "wide out" is more used these days.) star, Anthony Carter. Sweet shot in 2OT! I thought his moment in the pro spotlight ended years ago with the Minnesota Vikings, but I guess not. I better start paying attention this Association!

You're Welcome for the 1 Point

Wow. The Avs were completely outplayed tonight, but still get a point on the road. Flanders....I mean, Peter Budaj was on the campaign trail tonight and made some pretty solid arguments in his favor for the starting goalie spot. The winning OT goal by Schneider was sssssick. Good D by Hannan and an impossible save for Budaj. Sweet helper by Lappy in the 2nd, but it seemed like the puck was in the Avs' zone the entire night, courtesy of sluggish, sloppy play in front of Flanders. Thank you, Ned. May you get 5 goals of support next time around. It's getting mighty crowded atop the NW Division....Come back, Super Joe......

Huevos as a late bid for ZZ-Top worship in the Meat Puppet's canon

OK...this is understandably weird. If (Bay Area) Mac hadn't made the off-hand comment long ago that this blog needs "more Meat Puppets", after he retrospectively sorted through our drunken commentary of the Rockies' 2007 HIGHS and lows since KTH's mid-summer inception, I wouldn't be blogging about the 6th record from the Pups.

I assume (selfishly) that there was no Rocky Mountain sports other than the Rox that was relevant during that Sept/Oct timeframe.

After the current hot stove action, I hope the Rockies aren't left in some horrible basement crashpad with the lowly Giants - the Pads, Dodgers, and D-Backs made very bold moves over the past couple weeks, the Rockies have not. The wealthy, free-spending NL West contingent can bite me. So can anyone who doesn't like the Meat Puppets.

That said, Huevos is an awesome name for an album. It fucking means "Eggs"...is that brilliant or what? I say brilliant. My 2 year old daughter has a Huevos T-shirt I made for her. It looks rad.

My brief comments on the record itself:

If Huevos isn't a total ZZ-Top tribute filtered through post-punk psychedelia ("Paradise" "Dry Rain", or "Fruit") it's a logical harder-rockin' move forward after Mirage...("Bad Love") or it's just plain simpleton-rock ("Automatic Mojo") Whatever angle...it's a great record that got much play on my personal stereo back in '88 and on the Streetlight Records 24th St. system in SF back in the day when me and Ms. Winder and Tiberculosis had influence on that record store's playlist.

To deviate from the ZZ-Top angle that has been rock journalized pretty much to death since Huevos came out....please check out "Angel From the Coast" from Thin Lizzy on the Jailbreak record. It sounds like a goddam Huevos outtake with Phil Lynott singing for the Pups.

"...fruit on the vine. ice water fountain" that sounds mighty nice.

Oh yeah, to make this Denver sports relevant....

the Av's got a point but lost in OT to Anaheim tonight. The NW division is fucking tough.

So long Saueroid. Welcome back (i guess???) Ernster.

Shanahan mayhem

With her son coaching along the Texans sideline who Mrs. Shanahan going to root for? Enough already! I'm sick of this stupid NFL family story, but the pregame dudes apparently can't get enough of it... and did you know Kubiak use to coach under Mike Shanahan?

Anyhoo, bring it on Houston Hicks!

Riggins, KTH demands a full report.

"The Heat From KTH Was Too Great...."

Citing the media glare he faced from a certain Denver website over his shaky performances last season, LaTroy Hawkins has declined to resign with the Rockies and will become a Yankee. Hawkins was apparently eager to play in a market where the media scrutiny is less severe. He will now be able to freely blow games without getting an earful from DeathTruck.

Mile High Fireworks

A pretty entertaining Sunday afternoon to be a Denver sports fan. Between the Broncos 41-7 thrashing of the hated Chiefs and the 9 goal effort by the Avs later in the evening, there was plenty to smile about yesterday. Too bad the Titans choked so bad against the Bolts, pretty much making the Broncos' playoff calculus insurmountable. Really makes you cringe when you think back to the Bears meltdown a couple of weeks ago or the egg that was laid against the Raiders last week.

Nug Pups

...well not exactly my style to be posting anything having to do with the Association, but took in most of the Nugs/Mavs game tonight and experienced some fanciful emotions.

A high flying affair.... I must say that I enjoy this fellow they call "AI"

...shit, between last night and tonight the cat has been team-carrying (lil' thanks to Linas as well). Too bad last night didn't turn out quite as nicely as this evening as far as final scores go.

Did Iverson ever sit on the bench and take a breather tonight?

Can we bring Roy out of retirement?

Well, that was a barnburner of a hockey game...only your goalie shouldn't be the one giving up 5 goals (and definitely not 4 goals in the 3rd period for fuck's sake).
It's hard to argue for either of the Av's goalie choices this season. They both suck.

I don't normally like "Kicking it with Kiz" but this past weekend I actually was nodding my head while reading his article in the Post.

http://www.denverpost.com/avalanche/ci_7628362

Tonight's game only cements the sentiment. (i like how that rhyme sounds...)

So you say that Roy isn't willing to come out of retirement?

Well...if David Aebischer hadn't recently been put on waivers by the lowly PHX Coyote's minor league affiliate the San Antonio Rampage, (to quote the Hanson Brothers, "they sent me to the AHL, I wanted to stay, they sent me away....." Gross Misconduct LP Alternative Tentacles#116 1992 check it out=NoMeansNoRamonesHockeyPunk) I might be down with trying to bring Abby back (good lord, that dude must have sucked worse than we thought....) but the simple fact that he's eating crow and drinking Pilsner back in Europe now playing for HC Lugano makes me think he's not the answer.

Who is?

Broncos Finally Get Some Good News?

As noted already by captainwhatshisname in the previous post's comments, Travis Henry was victorious in his appeal of the pot suspension. This is a rare victory for the Broncos in the last couple of weeks, although it's certainly questionable whether this is truly a "victory." For Travis Henry, Mike Shanahan, and pot-smoking football players, sure, this is a big win. (My, what strange company you keep, Shanny!) As a Bronco fan, it doesn't feel like a win.

On its face, I don't have a problem with the reinstatement. Pot seriously cannot help you on the field and probably isn't too damaging to a player's performance if he wants to partake in the occasional off the field toke. I do have a problem with running backs on the Broncos that look slow and fumble the ball, which is why I'm not too stoked that Henry is here for the rest of the season. Since we've already established the season is over anyway, and he's almost sure to be gone next season, I'd rather just cut ties now with this over-achieving procreator .

Why can't we get some news nfl news like Tom Brady was arrested scoring heroin after last night's big win or Eli Manning was picked up for soliciting a male prostitute?

The Travis Henry saga is just irritating more than anything.

Unsafe Waters

Damn, that shark sure looks fake!!

Well, that's two Avs losses in four days at the hands (fins?) of the Sharks and three losses to East Bay teams in the last four days for the Denver Pro Squads. Hopefully, the Nuggs don't take on the Warriors anytime soon. (Sorry mac.) From what I saw, a pretty decent game for the Avs with the difference being a fluky goal by the Sharks. That happens sometimes in hockey. Still hurts to drop 4 points to a team that will be near the top of the Western Conference heap by the end of the season, despite the somewhat slow start. The Avs haven't been the same since Lappy was put on the shelf with a bum knee, underscoring his importance. Get well soon, bro.

By the way, screw the Pats. That was one lucky, jive-ass win.

Feel free to continue bitching about the Broncos.

Flying Low Again

As heart-wrenching as last week's loss was, this latest loss was a more focused, showcase if you will, display of the reasons the Broncos are going nowhere this season. The hardest part was that it had to come against Ozzy and the Raiders.

1) The offense is inconsistent. Aside from the long pass, there was nothing to cheer about with the offense, except for maybe plays that were not turnovers.

2) The defense cannot come up with big plays when they matter most. The Broncos were still in the game somehow after Cutler's 4th quarter pick, but they could not make a tackle on a crucial 3 and 11 after the Raiders seemingly were trying to recapture some old magic with a holding penalty on 3rd and 1. In fairness to the D, they were on the field a lot today, courtesy of the turnovers on offense. Still, the Raiders were coughing up the ball almost as much, but no one was around to snatch up the free pigskin.

3) Lastly, the special teams is such a massive pile of shit, they should move their practices up to Greeley. It's amazing anyone associated with that unit still has a job. (See Sammy Winder's post from last week and relive the hate.)

If there was any question after last week, the season is truly over now. I hope there is some good college talent this year, so that Shanahan can not draft it and pick up some more free agent losers (I'm looking at you Trav).

Bright spot - Brandon Marshall is emerging as an elite receiver, which no doubt means he'll become an insufferable prick within a year.

So long KazMat

Well, we knew he wasn't going to end up back here.
Not sure who I hate more, the Cubs or the Astros...guess it depends on who we're playing. (who am I kidding??? it's the Cubs!)
The dude was a spark at some pretty crucial times, for that I accept his thanks for allowing the Rockies to resurrect his MLB career after falling flat on his face with the Mets. Would have loved to see him back with the Rox, but......the Astros paid him pretty high for a 32 year old 2nd baseman who can be a bit streaky.
Anyways, best of luck my man KazMat, I sung your praises way more often than I screamed "you suck". I like that in my baseball players.

The Game 2 Grand Slam in Philly (notice all Caps) shall always be remembered.....