Thursday, October 7, 2010

A New Era Begins

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There is a new feeling in this town that hasn't been felt for a long, long time. It's called hope. After all hope was lost in game 7 of the 2006 Stanley Cup final, it's finally back four years later. Yep, a new era, a new beginning, a new vision etc.. whatever you call it, it's going to be a fun ride!


It all stems from the "big three" as they're being called in this town. I'm referring to the three new rookies. Namely; Taylor Hall, Magnus Paajarvi, & Jordan Eberle. These Kids could be billed as "A New Hope" kinda like some semi popular space move from the early 80's. After a 30th place finish last year, I think the Empire is going to Strike Back. These kids have tremendous ability, pedigree, and are all winners at lower levels. The question is...how long will it be for them to show that they can be successful in the NHL.


Out of the three, I believe it will be Jordan Eberle that has the best rookie season. He's the oldest, most ready and definitely a clutch goal scorer when the chips are down. (see world junior championship performance) I believe Jordan will challenge for the Calder Trophy this year.


I think Taylor Hall will find it difficult to dominate at 18 years old like he did in junior. And this might frustrate him in the beginning. He looked tentative in Training Camp this year (not unexpected) and he's on a new team playing with new people with a new coach in a new city! that's a lot of new. It will be interesting to see how he handles all of that, while having this town's hope, crushing down on his shoulders at the same time. We definitely need to give this kid time and space, and not just on the ice to dangle, but with our expectations.


Magnus Paajarvi looked really good early in Camp out in Penticton at the rookie tourney and then in the first couple of games he played in pre-season. He tailed off a little the last couple of games in point production, but you can see the compete level in this guy, is significant. He still is getting accustomed to the north american game, but he says that it suits his style better, so we'll see if that is true. With what looks like a line shuffle with Paajarvi playing on a different line than in camp, it might be more difficult for him to find chemistry and then to produce, at least in the beginning.


This team has done a complete 180 degree about face when it comes to personnel on and off the ice, they have new coaches, new players, new trainers, and even a new play-by-play voice in the broadcast booth. Change can be good, but it can also be devastating if the newbies can't find a way to fit in to this market / team early.


I really hope that this first game against Calgary will help re-vitalize the battle of Alberta again. The first pre-season game looked more like an early 80's game. There were lots of fights with two going at the same time at one point. We went 0-6 last year against the flamers, and if we can't beat'em on the ice in the win column, then I just want us to beat'em.


I will be at the game tonight tweeting live from the stands if Telus will get their shit together. check me out at www.twitter.com/realoilfan


GO Oilers GO!

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