Playoffs 2024, Part 2
No danger of a Hurricane?
Carolina had had a mediocre season with .579 wins and 95 points. You could easily miss the fact that nonetheless their team was balanced very balanced. The defensive core was actually quite strong: Dumoulin. Slavin. Gostisbehere. Hamilton. Pesce. And goalie Peter Mrázek was still very much at his best. Ockey already knew from experience that a strong defense could spell trouble for his 'Wings.
The Hurricanes' offense was no joke either. They still had Aho, Svechnikov and Teräväinen - and for this season they had added William Nylander. But even then they had struggled to score all year. Highest point total - belonging to William Nylander - was only 65. That was below the NHL top sixty that year.
The next problem Ockey should of course have been used to already. But the news of Anton Lundell's injury didn't please him at all. The young center would be out for 3 weeks. It always had to be a centerman hadn't it. And again this happened just one day before the first playoff game. For a short while Ockey thought he should have kept to his policy of not making any mid-season trades. He should have been more patient with Nazem Kadri.
Game 1. Lundell was sorely missed. Ockey had no fantasies about the matter: right now Larkin was his only center. And if he'd really had his way, he would have had Larkin on the wing too - like he had in '19-'20. The game ended up going to the overtime - and there was no getting out of the fact it was Carolina who emerged as victors with a score of 3-2. Ockey did not say a word to his co-workers that night.
Game 2. Something was definitely wrong. It had to be more than just the loss of one centerman. Game went to OT again - and again Carolina would take the win 3-2.
Game 3. Wings continued to look lost despite the coaching team trying to perform every miracle. But eventually Ovechkin who'd been pretty much invisible during the first two games stepped up and had three points that night. It didn't much ease Ockey's worry. Game 3 game had been won - but he just couldn't believe that after all these years his team could still be relying on one single player.
Game 4. The Red Wings seemed to have no defense at all. Askarov had been completely lost. Would this be it? After everything the Wings had accomplished that year? In third period the Wings did manage two goals but it was already too late. Score was 5-4 for Carolina.
Ockey could hardly believe how quickly his team had fallen from success. The series was now 3 to 1 for Carolina. He was going to lose to a team that had nearly missed the whole playoffs! And despite always having an unusually inflated self-belief, Ockey didn't pretend to have a solution.
Game 5. Askarov was getting frustrated. His left shoulder was aching again and he'd slowly lost his confidence. Gauthier would have to take the net. And Gauthier had still not quite returned to his form after having missed so much time with injury.
Game 5 followed a familiar story: Wings began with a lead but after the first period they would just fall apart. It really was lucky Carolina didn't score more than one goal on each of the last two periods. This resulted in the game going to overtime. In 71:21 Danny DeKeyser made a successful pokecheck on their own blueline. Pass to Bertuzzi, who forced a breakaway. And he slipped it in through the five hole on Mrázek! Red Wings had added a second win in the series. But literally everyone on their roster was very tired. It was not due to lack of effort that they were underachieving. The staff wouldn't even bring up the fact that they'd have to win two more games in a row to make the next round.
Game 6 started with a scoring race. In the second period Red Wings were one goal down again. It was Anton Lundell - with his rotator cuff strain - who forced the game even - a slapshot from the middle found its way to the back of the net. Lundell had been told by the doctors that failing to rest could have serious consequences. But still he'd insisted on returning two games early.
Overtime. Both teams were exhausted. Carolina then had a dangerous breakaway. But Brännström was able to catch the opposing winger and skate on right past him taking possession of the puck in the process. For a moment more the Wings had survived.
69.18. Tyler Bertuzzi saw an opportunity. He accelerated past the Carolina defense through the right wing. He faked a shot but in fact Andreas Athanasiou had sneaked in on the other side. Bertuzzi's pass was right on the money - and Mrazek didn't have a chance to react to Athanasiou whose one-timer promptly found the net. The series was really going to game seven!
Game 7. Ockey had realized how Larkin had been under special surveillance by the Carolina defense. They had shut him down completely. And that's how they had been able to exploit Detroit's lack of depth. He knew he had scorers aplenty - but he had precious few playmakers. With Larkin shut down he suddenly understood the root of the problem. Fixing the problem would be a different story altogether.
Game seven was very defensive on both sides. Both teams did all they could to not make a fatal mistake. But Lundell, still not caring about his injury, would score again in the first period - and Tomasino would succeed on a breakaway in the second period.
Going into the third period Detroit led the game 3-1 But again Carolina came back hard and made it 3-2. This is when Ockey saw a glimmer of hope however. Almost all of the 'Canes scoring in that series had been on Aho and Teräväinen. Could the Wings be lucky enough for their opponent's lack of depth to backfire?
Carolina really turned the hurricane on in the last three minutes. It was absolute mayhem for the Red Wings defense. And then it happened. The famous three on two. Nylander, Aho, Pesce - they would pull off a real beauty of a play. Nylander wound it up - and the net was wide open. But Brännström would rise to the challenge, not only blocking the shot but clearing it all the way to the other end of the rink while still on his back. Despite all the fireworks, all the shots and all the dangerous plays the Carolina's stars had put up, they did not succeed in bringing the score even. And Askarov, back in the net again, had been himself despite showing clear signs of pain.
The Red Wings had actually made it!
According to the requirements of the Detroit tradition, Philip Tomasino, their rising star, was then immediately injured with olecranon burstilis. Following these events the media somehow managed an interview with Ockey. Surprisingly they were saying that Detroit was expected to win the cup. Ockey didn't hesitate of course. "I am certain that we will" was his comment. And it wasn't a big secret that he was lying through his teeth.
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
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TurboJ
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- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
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Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
Last edited by TurboJ on Wed Mar 25, 2020 12:10 am, edited 6 times in total.
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TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
Playoffs 2024, Part 3
Look who's back!
Sure enough, it was Ottawa again. And the Senators had managed to not only keep their star roster intact but also add Evgeny Dadonov at the deadline. Captain Malkin admittedly had had a weak season overall, but he had then posted 8 points in their 4 playoff games while Ottawa swept Buffalo in the 1st round. Ockey wasn't as confident as usual. The battle with Carolina had clearly shown his team wasn't a reliable contender. And in the regular season matchups the Senators had soundly defeated the Red Wings.
Game 1. Ockey shocked the hockey crowd once again. To replace the injured Tomasino he called up Liam Connors. The 23-year-old winger had gone undrafted and there had never been much talk about him. Amazingly, his first ever NHL game would take place on Detroit's first line alongside Larkin and Ovechkin - right in the middle of playoffs. And Lundell was again on the lineup even though his injury had still not healed.
The game felt like last year. The Wings just played it like it was regular season and that worked - just like last year. They ended up easily winning the game with a score of 4-1. And to everyone's surprise, Liam Connors had played a really good game right off the bat even having an assist. And Anton Lundell had now scored one point in each of his playoff games despite his on-going injury.
Game 2. Ockey found out why Ottawa had been unimpressive in the first game. Brady Tkachuk had suffered an injury though he wasn't immediately out of the lineup. That would explain why Tkachuk hadn't provided much of a defensive effort. But despite losing their star winger the Senators still put up a serious fight in game 2. To continue the Cinderella story of Detroit's Liam Connors however - he would score a goal that night. And Lundell, still in pain, yet again continued his scoring streak helping the Red Wings to a 4-3 victory.
Game 3. Erik Brännström had been injured. Hoping to the last moment it was an error by the physio, Ockey soon realized that was not the case. In Ockey's view this was a player who could not really be replaced. While losing Brännström was a huge hit, there were also good news: Tomasino had passed his medical and would be able to play. But what did Ockey do with this information? Controversy followed. Instead of giving Tomasino back his usual place on the top line, Ockey's order was for the rookie Liam Connors to keep that spot! Little sense was seen in this. But at least Ockey did give Lundell a rest so he could finally heal. As for Tomasino, Ockey made him his number two center. Much debate went on - as often did in the Ockey years.
So how did Ockey replace Brännström? In no way of course. The Red Wings would play with 5 defensemen that night. AHL call-ups were considered naturally. But it turned out that everyone they had on reserve with the Griffins was too exhausted to play due to the rigors of their own playoff push.
Come game day, Tomasino, having moved to center, did not disappoint. He in fact scored two goals and even added an assist as the Wings won the game 5-3. Askarov, sadly, was again not doing very well. He'd been sweating and grinding his teeth the whole night. And this time both the coaches and H.Ockey noticed that. Askarov really needed rest. Gauthier would have to take the net again. Arturs Irbe, Askarov's personal coach, had to spend nearly an hour persuading the young goaltender to skip practice and see the physio instead.
Game 4. Defenseman Carter Robertson, another undrafted AHL-player was finally called up to fill in for Brännström. He was only supposed to play a minor third pairing role. T.J Brodie was to take on the number one defenseman's role in that game. Bringing in Carter was nevertheless seen as a risk as he had very little experience of big games and in the playoffs a small mistake could soon have big consequences. It had become evident that the Red Wings still needed all the help they could get regarding their defense. Even Ockey had begun to agree on that despite never giving up on his philosophy of 'scoring comes first'.
Brady Tkachuk was back in the Senators lineup. But this time Ottawa weren't playing to win. They were playing to not lose. And the Wings took advantage of it. While Larkin was once again shadowed by two Senators for the entire game, Tomasino consequently had more empty space for himself - and he scored three points again. Detroit went on to beat Ottawa 5-2. Ockey would have preferred to see more of a team effort. But the individual scoring prowess of Philip Tomasino could not be denied. And if individual prowess was what it took to win, then at least Ockey seemed to possess such talent on his roster.
Detroit did sweep that series. But Ockey still had many doubts - and rightfully so. Injuries were constantly harassing his team. More worryingly the overall effort shown by the Red Wings hadn't been at the expected level. Against Carolina they never should have struggled like they did. Ockey was also well aware that he still had three AHL players in the lineup and that just might cause some backlash soon. And obviously Carter Robertson, the backup D-man, also had to have an injury right after their run against Ottawa. Even so, Ockey cautiously continued to have hope. He remembered well how in the last year's conference finals they had stood no chance. This time he was going to make sure the Red Wings would put up a good fight.
Look who's back!
Sure enough, it was Ottawa again. And the Senators had managed to not only keep their star roster intact but also add Evgeny Dadonov at the deadline. Captain Malkin admittedly had had a weak season overall, but he had then posted 8 points in their 4 playoff games while Ottawa swept Buffalo in the 1st round. Ockey wasn't as confident as usual. The battle with Carolina had clearly shown his team wasn't a reliable contender. And in the regular season matchups the Senators had soundly defeated the Red Wings.
Game 1. Ockey shocked the hockey crowd once again. To replace the injured Tomasino he called up Liam Connors. The 23-year-old winger had gone undrafted and there had never been much talk about him. Amazingly, his first ever NHL game would take place on Detroit's first line alongside Larkin and Ovechkin - right in the middle of playoffs. And Lundell was again on the lineup even though his injury had still not healed.
The game felt like last year. The Wings just played it like it was regular season and that worked - just like last year. They ended up easily winning the game with a score of 4-1. And to everyone's surprise, Liam Connors had played a really good game right off the bat even having an assist. And Anton Lundell had now scored one point in each of his playoff games despite his on-going injury.
Game 2. Ockey found out why Ottawa had been unimpressive in the first game. Brady Tkachuk had suffered an injury though he wasn't immediately out of the lineup. That would explain why Tkachuk hadn't provided much of a defensive effort. But despite losing their star winger the Senators still put up a serious fight in game 2. To continue the Cinderella story of Detroit's Liam Connors however - he would score a goal that night. And Lundell, still in pain, yet again continued his scoring streak helping the Red Wings to a 4-3 victory.
Game 3. Erik Brännström had been injured. Hoping to the last moment it was an error by the physio, Ockey soon realized that was not the case. In Ockey's view this was a player who could not really be replaced. While losing Brännström was a huge hit, there were also good news: Tomasino had passed his medical and would be able to play. But what did Ockey do with this information? Controversy followed. Instead of giving Tomasino back his usual place on the top line, Ockey's order was for the rookie Liam Connors to keep that spot! Little sense was seen in this. But at least Ockey did give Lundell a rest so he could finally heal. As for Tomasino, Ockey made him his number two center. Much debate went on - as often did in the Ockey years.
So how did Ockey replace Brännström? In no way of course. The Red Wings would play with 5 defensemen that night. AHL call-ups were considered naturally. But it turned out that everyone they had on reserve with the Griffins was too exhausted to play due to the rigors of their own playoff push.
Come game day, Tomasino, having moved to center, did not disappoint. He in fact scored two goals and even added an assist as the Wings won the game 5-3. Askarov, sadly, was again not doing very well. He'd been sweating and grinding his teeth the whole night. And this time both the coaches and H.Ockey noticed that. Askarov really needed rest. Gauthier would have to take the net again. Arturs Irbe, Askarov's personal coach, had to spend nearly an hour persuading the young goaltender to skip practice and see the physio instead.
Game 4. Defenseman Carter Robertson, another undrafted AHL-player was finally called up to fill in for Brännström. He was only supposed to play a minor third pairing role. T.J Brodie was to take on the number one defenseman's role in that game. Bringing in Carter was nevertheless seen as a risk as he had very little experience of big games and in the playoffs a small mistake could soon have big consequences. It had become evident that the Red Wings still needed all the help they could get regarding their defense. Even Ockey had begun to agree on that despite never giving up on his philosophy of 'scoring comes first'.
Brady Tkachuk was back in the Senators lineup. But this time Ottawa weren't playing to win. They were playing to not lose. And the Wings took advantage of it. While Larkin was once again shadowed by two Senators for the entire game, Tomasino consequently had more empty space for himself - and he scored three points again. Detroit went on to beat Ottawa 5-2. Ockey would have preferred to see more of a team effort. But the individual scoring prowess of Philip Tomasino could not be denied. And if individual prowess was what it took to win, then at least Ockey seemed to possess such talent on his roster.
Detroit did sweep that series. But Ockey still had many doubts - and rightfully so. Injuries were constantly harassing his team. More worryingly the overall effort shown by the Red Wings hadn't been at the expected level. Against Carolina they never should have struggled like they did. Ockey was also well aware that he still had three AHL players in the lineup and that just might cause some backlash soon. And obviously Carter Robertson, the backup D-man, also had to have an injury right after their run against Ottawa. Even so, Ockey cautiously continued to have hope. He remembered well how in the last year's conference finals they had stood no chance. This time he was going to make sure the Red Wings would put up a good fight.
Last edited by TurboJ on Wed Mar 25, 2020 12:11 am, edited 1 time in total.
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TurboJ
- Drafted
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- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
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Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
Playoffs 2024, Part 4.
They forgot to turn off the Machine!
While it looked as if last year was repeating itself almost exactly, most people had ranked the New York Rangers in top two as far as cup favorites were concerned. Few would argue on whether they deserved their President's Trophy.
The Rangers had almost found credible resistance in the Columbus Blue Jackets who did win two games in the second round. But in truth the Rangers weren't any weaker than last year and it would have been a miracle for them to not pull through. They had still managed to retain the same very strong player core. But this year Igor Shestyorkin had also emerged as a superstar goalie. He had been impressive in the regular season with a 0.917 save percentage making him the number eight starter in the league. In the playoffs he would show his true ability with a whopping 0.929.
In addition the Rangers had reunited with Ryan McDonagh who'd spent the last five years in Tampa. Surprisingly centerman Filip Chytil had been their strongest scorer with 86 points in 78 games. Panarin and Zibanejad had not enjoyed a particularly strong year. But the nickname "Machine" had stuck and this year the Rangers had even more to show for it. Their system had already been perfected last year but now they had one more year's worth of experience.
Game 1. The Red Wings staff tried to remain as calm and professional as possible but last years embarrassing events had not faded from their memories. Luckily there were encouraging news that helped them keep their cool: Lundell was finally healthy and Brännström was back too. The other players responded to these news with enthusiasm. But Ockey insisted that Liam Connors should still keep his spot on the first line. Lundell would now play left wing with Tomasino as the second line center with Anthony Mantha on the right wing.
To the relief of the Wings staff, their team seemed to be playing better. However, everyone could tell they were taking too many penalties. That would cost them too - the Rangers would win the game 3-1. After a promising first period things had taken a bad turn once again. Last year was repeating itself.
Game 2. Rangers came on even stronger. Their goaltending was proving to be a big challenge for Detroit - Ockey's system always did rely too much on goal scoring. So when someone stopped nearly every puck, the Red Wings defense had to be called upon to do the same. And that was something they never did seem to master. But after a slow start for the whole team, young Tomasino would again continue his amazing playoff run by scoring a hat trick. Detroit won the game 4-3 but the coaching team was understandably not happy. Tomasino had been excellent for sure. But their efforts towards building a strong team-based game were not bearing fruit.
Game 3. Stakes were getting high of which both teams seemed to be well aware. The result was an extremely disciplined and defensive game. If only the Red Wings could find that same stance more often, thought Ockey. Game was 1-1 when Larkin took a penalty for slashing with just 20 seconds left on the third period. Team was rattled. The game would go to overtime but they'd be shorthanded. And while the Wings were able to kill that penalty, only one minute later Mika Zibanejad would punish them. Having found his game as the playoffs progressed he forced his way through the Detroit defense who had lost their confidence. Zibanejad did not miss his chance and the game ended 2-1 in the overtime. The Machine had taken control of the series with 2-1 wins.
Game 4. Red Wings were yet again showing great difficulty to score. Players were clearly frustrated. The series was proving extremely tough both physically and mentally. Detroit's coaching team tried to mix up the lines. They tried different approaches to breaking the Rangers' defense. But none of it seemed to work. Goalie Askarov had also been mediocre so far. But that night he'd show his critics why the Red Wings staff trusted him so much. Despite heavy offense by the 'Machine' and the Red Wings making many dangerous errors in the neutral zone Askarov only allowed one goal. And Phil Tomasino scored two goals again. He now had a total of six in those four games against the Rangers. Suddenly the series was even at 2-2.
Game 5. The aforementioned youngsters were able to improve the locker room atmosphere with their on-ice excellence. You could almost feel the players' confidence return. Alas, that did not translate into a great performance. The Rangers were again dominating the tight game.
But then, half-way through the game, one Liam Connors scored a goal bringing the Wings back even. The score was 1-1. And soon after, Tomasino - seemingly enjoying the center position - would score once again. The Wings had turned the expectations around going into the 3rd period with a 2-1 lead. And indeed at 59:57 Tyler Bertuzzi finished the job by flinging it into the empty net for a 3-1 win.
Askarov had an average of 0.959 in those last two games - and yet his shoulder problems never did go away.
Game 6. Nobody had expected the Wings to have the lead at this point. But in reality they indeed had achieved three wins against the Rangers' two. Privately Ockey was as surprised as anyone. "Ahead of schedule. Well ahead" was his thought. But in that series he had learned one important lesson. In his ever present strive for scoring excellence he had not realized how profoundly important strong goaltending really was. This year he did realize it.
Disappointingly game 6 wasn't going to plan. Red Wings had again lost their composure. They couldn't seem to win any one-on-ones. And bizarrely they still couldn't score. Ovechkin did then try to put the whole team on his shoulders. And he did score two goals. But the Rangers still easily won the game with a score of 5-2.
Game 7. It had begun to look very much like the machine could not be stopped. Players were starting to lose their hope again - a problem the coaches were unable to fix. Askarov's shoulder had gotten really bad. To make matters worse his physio told that he now had a thigh problem as well. Ockey had no choice but to put Taylor Gauthier in the net instead. And Gauthier, while admittedly a very promising young goalie, was not used to the pressure he now had to face. It would be up to him to give the Wings a change. A chance of the Stanley Cup finals. Gauthier tried as hard as he could not to think about it - but he could not overcome the human nature.
Even with all that pressure, Gauthier did start OK. The Rangers Machine was rolling in strong and they were relentess in their attempt in finishing the job quickly. Their game plan seemed to be to break the will of the Red Wings. The Rangers' coaches knew their opponent had many youngsters on the lineup. They knew Askarov wasn't playing. And they knew Larkin hadn't been able to provide the offense he was expected to. The Rangers were right in thinking the Red Wings were hanging in by a thread.
But the Rangers made one crucial mistake. In order to execute their plan they departed from their normal routine. And instead of continuing to build on their strong two-way game they tried to force an early lead. Their star players became frustrated once the first period ended and the expected result had not been achieved.
Upon entering the ice for the second period, the aging captain Alex Ovechkin was seen having a serious talk with Dylan Larkin. It was never known what he'd said to Larkin. But in the second period Larkin would finally score - twice. And Ovechkin had set him up both times. The #8 wasn't done either. He'd set up Betruzzi too before the second period was over. And so the third period would begin with the Wings in a 3-0 lead that Ovechkin had orchestrated.
Of course the New York Machine was not done. Zibanejad and Panarin would quickly score one goal each to make it 3-2. But once the game drew towards the end, David Quinn, the Ranger head coach, decided to pull his goalie with two minutes still on the clock. Anthony Mantha did not hesitate. He'd already become known as 'mr.Breakaway' by the time. And with an excellent opening pass by T.J Brodie, Mantha slid past the New York defense - and calmly guided the puck into the empty net. The Red Wings had won game seven with a score of 4-2.
The Rangers had been widely touted as the next NHL dynasty. And in their case that was not an overestimation. Much to the amazement of the hockey public The Machine had finally been defeated. David Quinn reportedly wasn't available for interviews. And Panarin, usually a model gentleman, would only speak Russian to the reporters. Three words of Russian, to be exact. But the most amazing thing was that the underdog Red Wings had done the seemingly impossible. They had reached the Stanley Cup finals.
They forgot to turn off the Machine!
While it looked as if last year was repeating itself almost exactly, most people had ranked the New York Rangers in top two as far as cup favorites were concerned. Few would argue on whether they deserved their President's Trophy.
The Rangers had almost found credible resistance in the Columbus Blue Jackets who did win two games in the second round. But in truth the Rangers weren't any weaker than last year and it would have been a miracle for them to not pull through. They had still managed to retain the same very strong player core. But this year Igor Shestyorkin had also emerged as a superstar goalie. He had been impressive in the regular season with a 0.917 save percentage making him the number eight starter in the league. In the playoffs he would show his true ability with a whopping 0.929.
In addition the Rangers had reunited with Ryan McDonagh who'd spent the last five years in Tampa. Surprisingly centerman Filip Chytil had been their strongest scorer with 86 points in 78 games. Panarin and Zibanejad had not enjoyed a particularly strong year. But the nickname "Machine" had stuck and this year the Rangers had even more to show for it. Their system had already been perfected last year but now they had one more year's worth of experience.
Game 1. The Red Wings staff tried to remain as calm and professional as possible but last years embarrassing events had not faded from their memories. Luckily there were encouraging news that helped them keep their cool: Lundell was finally healthy and Brännström was back too. The other players responded to these news with enthusiasm. But Ockey insisted that Liam Connors should still keep his spot on the first line. Lundell would now play left wing with Tomasino as the second line center with Anthony Mantha on the right wing.
To the relief of the Wings staff, their team seemed to be playing better. However, everyone could tell they were taking too many penalties. That would cost them too - the Rangers would win the game 3-1. After a promising first period things had taken a bad turn once again. Last year was repeating itself.
Game 2. Rangers came on even stronger. Their goaltending was proving to be a big challenge for Detroit - Ockey's system always did rely too much on goal scoring. So when someone stopped nearly every puck, the Red Wings defense had to be called upon to do the same. And that was something they never did seem to master. But after a slow start for the whole team, young Tomasino would again continue his amazing playoff run by scoring a hat trick. Detroit won the game 4-3 but the coaching team was understandably not happy. Tomasino had been excellent for sure. But their efforts towards building a strong team-based game were not bearing fruit.
Game 3. Stakes were getting high of which both teams seemed to be well aware. The result was an extremely disciplined and defensive game. If only the Red Wings could find that same stance more often, thought Ockey. Game was 1-1 when Larkin took a penalty for slashing with just 20 seconds left on the third period. Team was rattled. The game would go to overtime but they'd be shorthanded. And while the Wings were able to kill that penalty, only one minute later Mika Zibanejad would punish them. Having found his game as the playoffs progressed he forced his way through the Detroit defense who had lost their confidence. Zibanejad did not miss his chance and the game ended 2-1 in the overtime. The Machine had taken control of the series with 2-1 wins.
Game 4. Red Wings were yet again showing great difficulty to score. Players were clearly frustrated. The series was proving extremely tough both physically and mentally. Detroit's coaching team tried to mix up the lines. They tried different approaches to breaking the Rangers' defense. But none of it seemed to work. Goalie Askarov had also been mediocre so far. But that night he'd show his critics why the Red Wings staff trusted him so much. Despite heavy offense by the 'Machine' and the Red Wings making many dangerous errors in the neutral zone Askarov only allowed one goal. And Phil Tomasino scored two goals again. He now had a total of six in those four games against the Rangers. Suddenly the series was even at 2-2.
Game 5. The aforementioned youngsters were able to improve the locker room atmosphere with their on-ice excellence. You could almost feel the players' confidence return. Alas, that did not translate into a great performance. The Rangers were again dominating the tight game.
But then, half-way through the game, one Liam Connors scored a goal bringing the Wings back even. The score was 1-1. And soon after, Tomasino - seemingly enjoying the center position - would score once again. The Wings had turned the expectations around going into the 3rd period with a 2-1 lead. And indeed at 59:57 Tyler Bertuzzi finished the job by flinging it into the empty net for a 3-1 win.
Askarov had an average of 0.959 in those last two games - and yet his shoulder problems never did go away.
Game 6. Nobody had expected the Wings to have the lead at this point. But in reality they indeed had achieved three wins against the Rangers' two. Privately Ockey was as surprised as anyone. "Ahead of schedule. Well ahead" was his thought. But in that series he had learned one important lesson. In his ever present strive for scoring excellence he had not realized how profoundly important strong goaltending really was. This year he did realize it.
Disappointingly game 6 wasn't going to plan. Red Wings had again lost their composure. They couldn't seem to win any one-on-ones. And bizarrely they still couldn't score. Ovechkin did then try to put the whole team on his shoulders. And he did score two goals. But the Rangers still easily won the game with a score of 5-2.
Game 7. It had begun to look very much like the machine could not be stopped. Players were starting to lose their hope again - a problem the coaches were unable to fix. Askarov's shoulder had gotten really bad. To make matters worse his physio told that he now had a thigh problem as well. Ockey had no choice but to put Taylor Gauthier in the net instead. And Gauthier, while admittedly a very promising young goalie, was not used to the pressure he now had to face. It would be up to him to give the Wings a change. A chance of the Stanley Cup finals. Gauthier tried as hard as he could not to think about it - but he could not overcome the human nature.
Even with all that pressure, Gauthier did start OK. The Rangers Machine was rolling in strong and they were relentess in their attempt in finishing the job quickly. Their game plan seemed to be to break the will of the Red Wings. The Rangers' coaches knew their opponent had many youngsters on the lineup. They knew Askarov wasn't playing. And they knew Larkin hadn't been able to provide the offense he was expected to. The Rangers were right in thinking the Red Wings were hanging in by a thread.
But the Rangers made one crucial mistake. In order to execute their plan they departed from their normal routine. And instead of continuing to build on their strong two-way game they tried to force an early lead. Their star players became frustrated once the first period ended and the expected result had not been achieved.
Upon entering the ice for the second period, the aging captain Alex Ovechkin was seen having a serious talk with Dylan Larkin. It was never known what he'd said to Larkin. But in the second period Larkin would finally score - twice. And Ovechkin had set him up both times. The #8 wasn't done either. He'd set up Betruzzi too before the second period was over. And so the third period would begin with the Wings in a 3-0 lead that Ovechkin had orchestrated.
Of course the New York Machine was not done. Zibanejad and Panarin would quickly score one goal each to make it 3-2. But once the game drew towards the end, David Quinn, the Ranger head coach, decided to pull his goalie with two minutes still on the clock. Anthony Mantha did not hesitate. He'd already become known as 'mr.Breakaway' by the time. And with an excellent opening pass by T.J Brodie, Mantha slid past the New York defense - and calmly guided the puck into the empty net. The Red Wings had won game seven with a score of 4-2.
The Rangers had been widely touted as the next NHL dynasty. And in their case that was not an overestimation. Much to the amazement of the hockey public The Machine had finally been defeated. David Quinn reportedly wasn't available for interviews. And Panarin, usually a model gentleman, would only speak Russian to the reporters. Three words of Russian, to be exact. But the most amazing thing was that the underdog Red Wings had done the seemingly impossible. They had reached the Stanley Cup finals.
Last edited by TurboJ on Wed Mar 25, 2020 12:11 am, edited 5 times in total.
-
TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
Playoffs 2024, Part 5
Harrison Ockey would never admit satisfaction with anything. Whether from others or from himself, he'd always expect more. Never a shrinking violet, this was one of the main reasons for the whole 'Ockey Controversy'. He never did fit the social structure present in professional hockey. You might say he didn't fit North America. But you'd be just as right in saying he never really fit anywhere.
In the 2040 release 'The Ockey Years' the first chapter has the following headline: "The man who didn't appreciate". And those who'd worked with H.Ockey during his time with the Detroit Red Wings were indeed often in wonder of his never-ending discontent. The staff and the players alike had to possess certain qualities that wouldn't normally have been required. They had to be willing to put up with Ockey's cold hearted honesty - and beyond. Ockey utilized various methods to always keep the pressure up. He'd strive to keep everyone on the edge. His goal was for everyone to remain uncertain about their position - or their future with the team.
Even though Ockey was a gifted agitator, he would often resort to actions that were seen as crossing the line. Ockey did that to maintain the air of uncertainty. Indeed, nobody who knew his methods or his personality had much trouble believing the bad things that were said about him. But on the other hand, it would have been difficult for the same people to deny Ockey's success. And in the end, who would ever know what the truth really was? Someone did even suggest that Ockey himself was behind some of the negative press. That he somehow wanted to be hated.
Curiously though, there were always a couple of people around who didn't have to face any of Ockey's wrath. To some this only added to their dislike. He was often accused of favoritism even by those who didn't hate him as much as others. But to some that was simply a sign that Ockey was in fact human. And maybe - just maybe - capable of compassion.
Once in a lifetime
Facing the Stanley Cup Finals Harrison Ockey was mean as ever. But he tried really hard to contain it. Deep down he knew he was way out of his depth. And while he'd always adamantly deny it he didn't want to spoil the event for the players. Despite his hard image he was an emotional man. And perhaps there was a high price to pay for displaying a completely opposite image throughout his career. The critics had no idea that through all those years of controversy Ockey's greatest adversary was always Ockey himself.
He didn't give interviews. In fact he'd seemed to disappear completely after the Rangers series. The board of directors in their typical fashion weren't especially happy about Ockey's way of handling the publicity. But Ockey had decided this was going to be his season. At that point there wasn't much the board could do. Had they fired Ockey on the very eve of the Stanley Cup finals they knew the outcry would be on them. And the last thing they wanted was for the Red Wings' players lose their focus. The board members weren't born yesterday. They knew all too well what kind of pressure the cup finals would bring.
Once Ockey returned he was very much himself. The coaching staff always did say the story wasn't true. But on game day the public already had the idea that Ockey had painted with big letters a certain message onto the wall of the Red Wings locker room. Supposedly the writing was "those who lose this series shall never enter this room again". In contrast, the coaching staff would always tell you Ockey hadn't even arrived to the arena before the puck had been dropped. Once he did arrive however, many were in disgust. It was his clothing. Ockey had decided to wear a golden jacket for the night. And not just any old gold, it was bright. It was shiny and glistening gold - the kind that was impossible for anyone not to notice.
Tears of Nostalgy
There was something special about the fact that their final opponent was the Edmonton Oilers. There was a sense of nostalgy in the air. Some of the Red Wings' staff along with older fans could still remember 2006. For Ockey though, it was as an emotional moment due to his own personal past. He never did get over his greatest disappointment in life - his own failure as a hockey player. But what many didn't know was that it had been the legendary 1980's Oilers that had made Ockey take up hockey in the first place. Perhaps that's why he kept unusually quiet during the finals despite his brash appearance with the golden jacket and all. Ockey found it hard to control his own personal nostalgy.
The Oilers had emerged as something of a surprise contender that year. They had reached 109 points in the regular season finishing first in the Pacific Division by a margin of three points. But much to the disappointment of their fans, the Oilers of the early 2020's had never yet established themselves as playoff performers.
This year their scoring had been strong but their depth was still questionable. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl - with 110 and 106 regular season points respectively - were a force of nature. But the third best scorer on the team, Kailer Yamamoto, only had 67 points to his name. Edmonton's defense was strong however and their new starting goaltender, the 23-year-old Olivier Rodrigue had become something of a phenom achieving a 2.22GAA and 0.916 save percentage in his 58 starts.
During their 2024 run the Oilers' playoff credentials were finally established. And they did so in quite remarkable fashion. They had swept Arizona in the first round 4-0 and Anaheim (which was seen as the favorite) had succumbed in five games in the second round. Nashville in the third round also had only managed to win once. Suddenly the Edmonton Oilers had become very relevant and with their two star forwards in absolute beast mode, Detroit Red Wings were clearly the bigger underdogs.
Harrison Ockey would never admit satisfaction with anything. Whether from others or from himself, he'd always expect more. Never a shrinking violet, this was one of the main reasons for the whole 'Ockey Controversy'. He never did fit the social structure present in professional hockey. You might say he didn't fit North America. But you'd be just as right in saying he never really fit anywhere.
In the 2040 release 'The Ockey Years' the first chapter has the following headline: "The man who didn't appreciate". And those who'd worked with H.Ockey during his time with the Detroit Red Wings were indeed often in wonder of his never-ending discontent. The staff and the players alike had to possess certain qualities that wouldn't normally have been required. They had to be willing to put up with Ockey's cold hearted honesty - and beyond. Ockey utilized various methods to always keep the pressure up. He'd strive to keep everyone on the edge. His goal was for everyone to remain uncertain about their position - or their future with the team.
Even though Ockey was a gifted agitator, he would often resort to actions that were seen as crossing the line. Ockey did that to maintain the air of uncertainty. Indeed, nobody who knew his methods or his personality had much trouble believing the bad things that were said about him. But on the other hand, it would have been difficult for the same people to deny Ockey's success. And in the end, who would ever know what the truth really was? Someone did even suggest that Ockey himself was behind some of the negative press. That he somehow wanted to be hated.
Curiously though, there were always a couple of people around who didn't have to face any of Ockey's wrath. To some this only added to their dislike. He was often accused of favoritism even by those who didn't hate him as much as others. But to some that was simply a sign that Ockey was in fact human. And maybe - just maybe - capable of compassion.
Once in a lifetime
Facing the Stanley Cup Finals Harrison Ockey was mean as ever. But he tried really hard to contain it. Deep down he knew he was way out of his depth. And while he'd always adamantly deny it he didn't want to spoil the event for the players. Despite his hard image he was an emotional man. And perhaps there was a high price to pay for displaying a completely opposite image throughout his career. The critics had no idea that through all those years of controversy Ockey's greatest adversary was always Ockey himself.
He didn't give interviews. In fact he'd seemed to disappear completely after the Rangers series. The board of directors in their typical fashion weren't especially happy about Ockey's way of handling the publicity. But Ockey had decided this was going to be his season. At that point there wasn't much the board could do. Had they fired Ockey on the very eve of the Stanley Cup finals they knew the outcry would be on them. And the last thing they wanted was for the Red Wings' players lose their focus. The board members weren't born yesterday. They knew all too well what kind of pressure the cup finals would bring.
Once Ockey returned he was very much himself. The coaching staff always did say the story wasn't true. But on game day the public already had the idea that Ockey had painted with big letters a certain message onto the wall of the Red Wings locker room. Supposedly the writing was "those who lose this series shall never enter this room again". In contrast, the coaching staff would always tell you Ockey hadn't even arrived to the arena before the puck had been dropped. Once he did arrive however, many were in disgust. It was his clothing. Ockey had decided to wear a golden jacket for the night. And not just any old gold, it was bright. It was shiny and glistening gold - the kind that was impossible for anyone not to notice.
Tears of Nostalgy
There was something special about the fact that their final opponent was the Edmonton Oilers. There was a sense of nostalgy in the air. Some of the Red Wings' staff along with older fans could still remember 2006. For Ockey though, it was as an emotional moment due to his own personal past. He never did get over his greatest disappointment in life - his own failure as a hockey player. But what many didn't know was that it had been the legendary 1980's Oilers that had made Ockey take up hockey in the first place. Perhaps that's why he kept unusually quiet during the finals despite his brash appearance with the golden jacket and all. Ockey found it hard to control his own personal nostalgy.
The Oilers had emerged as something of a surprise contender that year. They had reached 109 points in the regular season finishing first in the Pacific Division by a margin of three points. But much to the disappointment of their fans, the Oilers of the early 2020's had never yet established themselves as playoff performers.
This year their scoring had been strong but their depth was still questionable. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl - with 110 and 106 regular season points respectively - were a force of nature. But the third best scorer on the team, Kailer Yamamoto, only had 67 points to his name. Edmonton's defense was strong however and their new starting goaltender, the 23-year-old Olivier Rodrigue had become something of a phenom achieving a 2.22GAA and 0.916 save percentage in his 58 starts.
During their 2024 run the Oilers' playoff credentials were finally established. And they did so in quite remarkable fashion. They had swept Arizona in the first round 4-0 and Anaheim (which was seen as the favorite) had succumbed in five games in the second round. Nashville in the third round also had only managed to win once. Suddenly the Edmonton Oilers had become very relevant and with their two star forwards in absolute beast mode, Detroit Red Wings were clearly the bigger underdogs.
Last edited by TurboJ on Tue Mar 31, 2020 7:04 pm, edited 3 times in total.
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TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
Playoffs 2024, Part 6
The end of the road
Game 1. A scoring race was expected and so it was to be. Both teams played with verve and flair. Goalies of both teams were having a busy night with the game reaching a total of eleven goals. Yet neither team had shown their usual identity. According to analysts it seemed likely that most players were simply nervous that night. For most of them it was the first Stanley Cup final they'd ever played.
The spectators did seem to enjoy the show. And rather unexpectedly there wasn't any one particular name standing out on the score board. The analysts had been expecting this series to be a 'clash of titans' kind of thing. They were of course referring to the star forwards. These 100-point scorers wanted to prove they could win in the playoffs too.
In the end game one had left the Red Wings coaching team curious. It seemed difficult for them to take the correct action after the scoring feast that they had just witnessed. And there was a feeling this series hadn't really started yet. Eventually the game would end with a score of 7-4. And the Red Wings had been victorious.
...
With Gauthier in charge of the Red Wings goaltending, Askarov had been working hard with his physio. The next day he asked to meet H.Ockey. Askarov was escorted into his office and the young goalie had a very distinct fire in his eyes. His message was short: "I have to play next game". Ockey did his best to hide his smile and made no promises. But right after Askarov had left, he'd call head coach Blashill and tell him they had their starter back. This was the kind of player mr.Ockey liked. Driven. Obsessed almost. Not letting anything stand in his way. In some ways a bit like Ockey himself.
...
Game 2. This time the audience was introduced to more traditional playoff hockey. You could imagine the coaches of both teams had a sore throat from all the constructive feedback that had been given after the last game. Everyone knew you couldn't play like that in the playoffs. Eleven goals in one game would always involve too many chances taken. The players had to act more responsible.
First period. It was a much slower start this time. Both teams were playing smart hockey. The structure had been found. Most players on both sides had managed to reach a level of discipline worthy of the cup finals. But among the crowd and especially the media many had been quite vocal about their opinion. Neither of these teams was a proper contender. The majority of the public did always think the true contenders had been eliminated before finals by the luck of the draw.
Since both teams were suddenly playing a more defensive game there weren't many scoring opportunities to be had. But in 6:18 Edmonton misread the play for a second. They had two men on Ovechkin which allowed Brännström to open up ice for Larkin who in turn found a clear path to Rodrigue's goal. Larkin cleanly deked him out of the picture and the score was 1-0 for Detroit.
Second period. Temperature was clearly rising. It looked like a low scoring game was to be expected and Oilers were feeling the pressure. At 25.36 everyone was holding their breath as McDavid had lost the puck in their zone. It was Jacob de la Rose who had stolen the puck from him. And this was one of those things that ended up on a highlight reel in the wrong kind of way. Perhaps it was just because McDavid was always on the spotlight. Or perhaps it was more due to the fact that Daniil Gutik, mr. grinder, was the guy who buried the puck off de la Rose's pass. In any case the game was 2-0 for the Wings and for a moment H.Ockey found himself thinking: "What if...." But McDavid would soon redeem himself. At 34:14 he'd set Draisaitl up in style. Draisaitl then flipped the puck over Askarov's blade and suddenly the score was 1-2.
Third period. The Oilers had found some impressive momentum. They had possession for most of the time and The Red Wings didn't seem to have any other choice but to try endure. However, the Oilers in their fury did end up taking some penalties. And while they managed to very effectively kill all of them, the hard work eventually wore them down. Even then the battle remained tense until the very last seconds. Finally Larkin managed to steal the puck off Adam Larsson while the Oilers were pressing on with six skaters on the ice. Larkin's pass found Ovechkin who put in an empty netter at 59:43 making it 3-1 for the Wings. Askarov's performance with just one goal against and a 0.957 did not surprise Ockey. Despite all the injury issues not once had he regretted drafting him with his third overall pick back in 2020.
The Red Wings had won again. But this time it had taken a tremendous amount of work. And the long playoff run was starting to really show. At that point there was more than your normal wear and tear. Some of the key players had been logging far too many minutes for far too long. The fatigue had inevitably begun to show on the ice.
...
Despite a clear result of a 3-1 victory and having a 2-0 lead in the series, there was tension within the Red Wings' ranks. Even for the players - despite all the mileage - most of the tension was of the mental kind. The road had been long indeed. Not everyone could adapt to the effects of the journey. Some of the players didn't enjoy the fact that for several weeks hockey had literally been everything they'd do. They would play hockey. Train hockey. Think, listen, talk hockey. Even dream of hockey. Many of the young players were beginning to wonder whether the effort was worth it. And some of the veterans didn't bother to put on a show anymore. They had spent most of their energy already and instead of friendly smiles you'd see faces with a slightly too serious look.
Unfortunately mr.Ockey hadn't been able to keep his calm any better. The nervousness that had appeared seemed contagious and seemingly the coaching staff hadn't escaped it either. And defenseman Filip Hronek had fractured his shin while blocking a shot in their victorious game two. Ockey at that point didn't even act surprised. This was the Red Wing way after all. Hronek would be out for three months they said. But Ockey didn't even hear the physio on the phone. His focus had already shifted to the passing scenery as the taxi drove him home.
...
Game 3. Carter Robertson was called up again - this time to fill in for Hronek.
1st period. Very careful and highly disciplined hockey was seen again on both sides. Ockey wondered if his team had finally learned to defend. Usually he'd rather have thought about pretty much any other aspect of the game. But there was an awful lot on the line that night. It was safe hockey by both teams. Mistakes were few and so were the opportunities. 1st period had ended with no scoring.
2nd period. The Red Wings were on a roll due to some newly found depth scoring. Edmonton had been checking the Wings' star players very effectively all the way. However, in doing so they had failed to score themselves. Liam Connors, Jacob de la Rose and Tyler Bertuzzi took advantage and scored a goal each. 3-0 for Detroit.
3rd period. Edmonton's Jake Virtanen was sitting in the penalty box when there was an icing call. Connor McDavid would take the faceoff at Detroit's end. Ever determined in his pursuit for the Stanley Cup he'd win the faceoff. But what happened next will probably never be forgotten. McDavid took the puck back towards the blueline. There he deked it around Nemeth and continued towards the corner. A quick little side step and a change in rhythm left Larkin also standing. Next up was Dekeyser who was guarding the goal post. McDavid accelerated towards him and suddenly changed direction again. Between DeKeyser's legs the puck went. McDavid, taking a sharp turn yet again, reaching for the other corner of the Red Wings' net was then hit by Anthony Mantha. But Mantha's hit didn't fully connect and McDavid wasn't done. Quickly regaining his balance he evaded Mantha. And then he took a sudden wrist shot using Mantha as screen. And in went the puck right to the left hand top corner of Askarov's goal. McDavid's shorthanded goal had made the game 1-3.
Not for a moment did Edmonton stop their attack. Not an inch of ice was given up for free. Edmonton was playing two lines the last five minutes, almost one and a half lines in fact. The last shift was a long one. The Oiler Goalie was pulled for the last 60 seconds. MdDavid. Draisaitl. Nugent-Hopkins. van Riemsdyk. Klefbom. Bouchard. But despite all the effort - and there was some spectacular effort - they would not be rewarded. Askarov had turned himself into a human brick wall in the net. Right at the end Vatanen added to the embarrassment of the Oilers by shooting the puck into the empty net for 4-1.
...
Game 4. Despite the series being 3-0 for the Red Wings, Edmonton seemed to have lost none of their determination. Many would say the first three games had been lucky for Detroit. And altough the effort had been solid, some credit had to be given to that claim. Ockey later admitted he'd had a strong desire to leave the arena after the first period of game 4. But that would have sent a wrong message to his critics. He was nervous to the point of actually considering giving up on the golden jacket. But his final weeks in the NHL needed to be his and his alone.
1st period. At 5:09 McDavid scored a powerplay goal from Bouchard and Klefbom: 1-0 Edmonton. Overall the first period was extremely tight and defensively strong for both teams. There would be no more scoring. The media, meanwhile, had almost forgotten how the Red Wings still had three AHL players in their lineup. And that they'd been there for most of the playoff run. Defenseman Carter Robertson hadn't made one critical mistake. Liam Connors was still on Larkin's right wing on the top line. But it had gone almost unnoticed that Barrett Hayton, who had last played an NHL game four years ago, had been playing too. And despite his downfall and even despite his 10-month injury, he had been playing a solid game. The media had been curiously quiet for a little while. But after the playoffs there would be criticism.
2nd period. For the first time you could sense that the Oilers were getting nervous. Eventually they ended up taking penalties. At the halfway point Edmonton were shorthanded again. McDavid's line would be killing the penalty. History would be written after Leon Draisaitl had taken possession of the puck in the corner. He passed it to McDavid. The Red Wings powerplay unit could not believe what hit them when they realized that McDavid had found his way through three of their players again. That's when McDavid scored his second short-handed goal in the finals. Score was now 2-0 for the Oilers. Not always mentioned in the history books is the fact that McDavid had also had two shorthanded assists earlier in the the Oilers' playoff run.
Not long after that Philip Tomasino 'pulled a Mantha'. The Red Wings fan base had started to use that term to describe a particular kind of a quick breakway goal. Incidentally it was Connor McDavid who was sitting in the penalty box at the time of Tomasino's powerplay goal. Tomasino had found another gear altogether on the playoff run. Seemingly not having paid any attention to Vatanen's quick pass from Detroit's defensive zone he simply flew past the Oilers' forecheck and the puck somehow found him exactly as he crossed the blueline. Rodrigue's right pad wasn't quick enough. Score was 1-2.
Not one minute later Red Wings made a quick line change and Edmonton's defense missed Daniil Gutik accelerating into their defensive zone straight off the bench. Bertuzzi had brought up the puck equally quickly on the other side and fed him a pass as he shot the puck behind Rodrigue to make the score even 2-2.
3rd period. Critics almost gave Ockey a pass for letting Liam Connors play on the top line despite Tomasino and Mantha both being available. The reason was Liam Connors was about to become something of a local hero. He just so happened to score two goals in 8 minutes. With a total of 10 minutes left on the clock Detroit suddenly had a 4-2 lead. At that point much could be said about what was going through the minds of the Red Wing coaches - regarding Ockey's thoughts none would even try. But really you'd have to have been there to understand what was going on.
However, the playoffs can be a fickle beast. The Oilers' James van Riemsdyk was determined to show that you didn't have to be a rookie to pull off what Connors had just done. The veteran forward would go on to score two goals as well - and he'd do it within six minutes. Some say a certain Detroit coach was pulling his hair right about then. They had mistakenly thought the Oilers had been broken. And yet the score board suddenly read 4 - 4. To make matters worse, van Riemsdyk had succeeded in scoring that second goal just 23 seconds before the final buzzer. That would not serve the Red Wing morale greatly on the overtime. They were in fact completely unprepared for going to the overtime. Inexperience, said the critics. And Ockey, obviously not commenting on the matter, did not disagree. Goalie Askarov threw his stick at the boards in a rare display of emotion. Luckily no penalty was called for it.
Overtime 1. Unprepared as they were, the Red Wings were on the defensive when the overtime began. Defense, defense, defense: That's what Blashill was shouting. Ockey was quiet, standing next to the hallway towards the locker rooms. He could hear Blashill's commanding voice echoing through. The Red Wings would have to be careful indeed. Somehow Ockey felt he suddenly had an awful lot to lose.
And the fatigue was gnawing on everyone on the ice. The only positive was that apparently the Oilers weren't unaffected by it despite a far shorter path to the finals. It made sense too - the Oilers had been forced to work extremely hard in the final series. Despite them having shown superiority on numerous occasions and having great determination and skill, things had not been going their way. Their back against the wall in game 4 it was no surprise they had been giving everything there was to give. But despite the Oilers doing everything they possibly could they were not able to finish the job.
Eighty minutes having been played and the game headed into second overtime, it was no secret that the Red Wings were the more tired team. They had had to face two extremely taxing series on their run while already weakened by injuries. The 'defense only' approach the Red Wing coaches had deemed necessary in order to survive the first overtime had really drained whatever reserves there might have been left.
Overtime 2. The fatigue didn't show any mercy when the second overtime began. But the Red Wings had been able to insert some more thought into their play and they were now trying to preserve energy by passing the puck as much as possible. Coaches had been selling them the idea they should play as if they had a three goal lead. They had tried to explain time was on their side. But for the players it sure didn't feel like that. Excruciatingly tired, even the more experienced players were facing difficulty staying focused. But in the end experience would be the deciding factor. Experience - and adrenaline.
Almost nine minutes into the second overtime the adrenaline stepped in. Edmonton's Darnell Nurse threw a big hit on Detroit's Tomasino. It was a clean hit but Tomasino's reaction didn't reflect that. Everyone had been tense since the start and it was all too easy to just snap. Nurse had successfully gotten under Tomasino's skin. Patrik Nemeth was lucky to stop Tomasino before he'd do anything rash. Adrenaline was still pumping when Tomasino went on to take the next faceoff. Critics wondered why Blashill hadn't called Tomasino in. But the critics were soon silenced because experience was about to step in.
Sami Vatanen was going to dump the puck for a line change. But right when he was about to dump it to the left corner, he instead made a slow pass to the middle - right where Philip Tomasino was found skating towards the bench. Tomasino got the hint. The adrenaline allowed him to overcome the fatigue for one more spurt of speed and experience had served him an excellent pass. The Oiler defensemen bumped into eachother in confusion. Tomasino was immediately past them. He saw Anthony Mantha racing in through the middle. He faked a shot and Rodrigue bought it - and dropped. Tomasino made a quick pass to Mantha who had a perfect spot to shoot. And Mantha's wrist shot hit the top of the net missing Rodrigue's desperate glove by just a bit. And so at 9:21 of the second overtime the game 4 had been won.
The Detroit Red Wings had won the Stanley Cup.
They had really won - and there was to be great celebration.
The celebration would have to wait till Detroit however. Streets of Edmonton did not seem very hospitable that night. But there would be celebration. There would be a parade. There would be red carpets and bright lights. Fans would be chanting. Trophies would be awarded. Speeches would be given. Pictures would be taken. There would be stories of legend. But Harrison Ockey felt empty. And he wasn't even thinking about his future. Or the fact that his GM career was over.
The end of the road
Game 1. A scoring race was expected and so it was to be. Both teams played with verve and flair. Goalies of both teams were having a busy night with the game reaching a total of eleven goals. Yet neither team had shown their usual identity. According to analysts it seemed likely that most players were simply nervous that night. For most of them it was the first Stanley Cup final they'd ever played.
The spectators did seem to enjoy the show. And rather unexpectedly there wasn't any one particular name standing out on the score board. The analysts had been expecting this series to be a 'clash of titans' kind of thing. They were of course referring to the star forwards. These 100-point scorers wanted to prove they could win in the playoffs too.
In the end game one had left the Red Wings coaching team curious. It seemed difficult for them to take the correct action after the scoring feast that they had just witnessed. And there was a feeling this series hadn't really started yet. Eventually the game would end with a score of 7-4. And the Red Wings had been victorious.
...
With Gauthier in charge of the Red Wings goaltending, Askarov had been working hard with his physio. The next day he asked to meet H.Ockey. Askarov was escorted into his office and the young goalie had a very distinct fire in his eyes. His message was short: "I have to play next game". Ockey did his best to hide his smile and made no promises. But right after Askarov had left, he'd call head coach Blashill and tell him they had their starter back. This was the kind of player mr.Ockey liked. Driven. Obsessed almost. Not letting anything stand in his way. In some ways a bit like Ockey himself.
...
Game 2. This time the audience was introduced to more traditional playoff hockey. You could imagine the coaches of both teams had a sore throat from all the constructive feedback that had been given after the last game. Everyone knew you couldn't play like that in the playoffs. Eleven goals in one game would always involve too many chances taken. The players had to act more responsible.
First period. It was a much slower start this time. Both teams were playing smart hockey. The structure had been found. Most players on both sides had managed to reach a level of discipline worthy of the cup finals. But among the crowd and especially the media many had been quite vocal about their opinion. Neither of these teams was a proper contender. The majority of the public did always think the true contenders had been eliminated before finals by the luck of the draw.
Since both teams were suddenly playing a more defensive game there weren't many scoring opportunities to be had. But in 6:18 Edmonton misread the play for a second. They had two men on Ovechkin which allowed Brännström to open up ice for Larkin who in turn found a clear path to Rodrigue's goal. Larkin cleanly deked him out of the picture and the score was 1-0 for Detroit.
Second period. Temperature was clearly rising. It looked like a low scoring game was to be expected and Oilers were feeling the pressure. At 25.36 everyone was holding their breath as McDavid had lost the puck in their zone. It was Jacob de la Rose who had stolen the puck from him. And this was one of those things that ended up on a highlight reel in the wrong kind of way. Perhaps it was just because McDavid was always on the spotlight. Or perhaps it was more due to the fact that Daniil Gutik, mr. grinder, was the guy who buried the puck off de la Rose's pass. In any case the game was 2-0 for the Wings and for a moment H.Ockey found himself thinking: "What if...." But McDavid would soon redeem himself. At 34:14 he'd set Draisaitl up in style. Draisaitl then flipped the puck over Askarov's blade and suddenly the score was 1-2.
Third period. The Oilers had found some impressive momentum. They had possession for most of the time and The Red Wings didn't seem to have any other choice but to try endure. However, the Oilers in their fury did end up taking some penalties. And while they managed to very effectively kill all of them, the hard work eventually wore them down. Even then the battle remained tense until the very last seconds. Finally Larkin managed to steal the puck off Adam Larsson while the Oilers were pressing on with six skaters on the ice. Larkin's pass found Ovechkin who put in an empty netter at 59:43 making it 3-1 for the Wings. Askarov's performance with just one goal against and a 0.957 did not surprise Ockey. Despite all the injury issues not once had he regretted drafting him with his third overall pick back in 2020.
The Red Wings had won again. But this time it had taken a tremendous amount of work. And the long playoff run was starting to really show. At that point there was more than your normal wear and tear. Some of the key players had been logging far too many minutes for far too long. The fatigue had inevitably begun to show on the ice.
...
Despite a clear result of a 3-1 victory and having a 2-0 lead in the series, there was tension within the Red Wings' ranks. Even for the players - despite all the mileage - most of the tension was of the mental kind. The road had been long indeed. Not everyone could adapt to the effects of the journey. Some of the players didn't enjoy the fact that for several weeks hockey had literally been everything they'd do. They would play hockey. Train hockey. Think, listen, talk hockey. Even dream of hockey. Many of the young players were beginning to wonder whether the effort was worth it. And some of the veterans didn't bother to put on a show anymore. They had spent most of their energy already and instead of friendly smiles you'd see faces with a slightly too serious look.
Unfortunately mr.Ockey hadn't been able to keep his calm any better. The nervousness that had appeared seemed contagious and seemingly the coaching staff hadn't escaped it either. And defenseman Filip Hronek had fractured his shin while blocking a shot in their victorious game two. Ockey at that point didn't even act surprised. This was the Red Wing way after all. Hronek would be out for three months they said. But Ockey didn't even hear the physio on the phone. His focus had already shifted to the passing scenery as the taxi drove him home.
...
Game 3. Carter Robertson was called up again - this time to fill in for Hronek.
1st period. Very careful and highly disciplined hockey was seen again on both sides. Ockey wondered if his team had finally learned to defend. Usually he'd rather have thought about pretty much any other aspect of the game. But there was an awful lot on the line that night. It was safe hockey by both teams. Mistakes were few and so were the opportunities. 1st period had ended with no scoring.
2nd period. The Red Wings were on a roll due to some newly found depth scoring. Edmonton had been checking the Wings' star players very effectively all the way. However, in doing so they had failed to score themselves. Liam Connors, Jacob de la Rose and Tyler Bertuzzi took advantage and scored a goal each. 3-0 for Detroit.
3rd period. Edmonton's Jake Virtanen was sitting in the penalty box when there was an icing call. Connor McDavid would take the faceoff at Detroit's end. Ever determined in his pursuit for the Stanley Cup he'd win the faceoff. But what happened next will probably never be forgotten. McDavid took the puck back towards the blueline. There he deked it around Nemeth and continued towards the corner. A quick little side step and a change in rhythm left Larkin also standing. Next up was Dekeyser who was guarding the goal post. McDavid accelerated towards him and suddenly changed direction again. Between DeKeyser's legs the puck went. McDavid, taking a sharp turn yet again, reaching for the other corner of the Red Wings' net was then hit by Anthony Mantha. But Mantha's hit didn't fully connect and McDavid wasn't done. Quickly regaining his balance he evaded Mantha. And then he took a sudden wrist shot using Mantha as screen. And in went the puck right to the left hand top corner of Askarov's goal. McDavid's shorthanded goal had made the game 1-3.
Not for a moment did Edmonton stop their attack. Not an inch of ice was given up for free. Edmonton was playing two lines the last five minutes, almost one and a half lines in fact. The last shift was a long one. The Oiler Goalie was pulled for the last 60 seconds. MdDavid. Draisaitl. Nugent-Hopkins. van Riemsdyk. Klefbom. Bouchard. But despite all the effort - and there was some spectacular effort - they would not be rewarded. Askarov had turned himself into a human brick wall in the net. Right at the end Vatanen added to the embarrassment of the Oilers by shooting the puck into the empty net for 4-1.
...
Game 4. Despite the series being 3-0 for the Red Wings, Edmonton seemed to have lost none of their determination. Many would say the first three games had been lucky for Detroit. And altough the effort had been solid, some credit had to be given to that claim. Ockey later admitted he'd had a strong desire to leave the arena after the first period of game 4. But that would have sent a wrong message to his critics. He was nervous to the point of actually considering giving up on the golden jacket. But his final weeks in the NHL needed to be his and his alone.
1st period. At 5:09 McDavid scored a powerplay goal from Bouchard and Klefbom: 1-0 Edmonton. Overall the first period was extremely tight and defensively strong for both teams. There would be no more scoring. The media, meanwhile, had almost forgotten how the Red Wings still had three AHL players in their lineup. And that they'd been there for most of the playoff run. Defenseman Carter Robertson hadn't made one critical mistake. Liam Connors was still on Larkin's right wing on the top line. But it had gone almost unnoticed that Barrett Hayton, who had last played an NHL game four years ago, had been playing too. And despite his downfall and even despite his 10-month injury, he had been playing a solid game. The media had been curiously quiet for a little while. But after the playoffs there would be criticism.
2nd period. For the first time you could sense that the Oilers were getting nervous. Eventually they ended up taking penalties. At the halfway point Edmonton were shorthanded again. McDavid's line would be killing the penalty. History would be written after Leon Draisaitl had taken possession of the puck in the corner. He passed it to McDavid. The Red Wings powerplay unit could not believe what hit them when they realized that McDavid had found his way through three of their players again. That's when McDavid scored his second short-handed goal in the finals. Score was now 2-0 for the Oilers. Not always mentioned in the history books is the fact that McDavid had also had two shorthanded assists earlier in the the Oilers' playoff run.
Not long after that Philip Tomasino 'pulled a Mantha'. The Red Wings fan base had started to use that term to describe a particular kind of a quick breakway goal. Incidentally it was Connor McDavid who was sitting in the penalty box at the time of Tomasino's powerplay goal. Tomasino had found another gear altogether on the playoff run. Seemingly not having paid any attention to Vatanen's quick pass from Detroit's defensive zone he simply flew past the Oilers' forecheck and the puck somehow found him exactly as he crossed the blueline. Rodrigue's right pad wasn't quick enough. Score was 1-2.
Not one minute later Red Wings made a quick line change and Edmonton's defense missed Daniil Gutik accelerating into their defensive zone straight off the bench. Bertuzzi had brought up the puck equally quickly on the other side and fed him a pass as he shot the puck behind Rodrigue to make the score even 2-2.
3rd period. Critics almost gave Ockey a pass for letting Liam Connors play on the top line despite Tomasino and Mantha both being available. The reason was Liam Connors was about to become something of a local hero. He just so happened to score two goals in 8 minutes. With a total of 10 minutes left on the clock Detroit suddenly had a 4-2 lead. At that point much could be said about what was going through the minds of the Red Wing coaches - regarding Ockey's thoughts none would even try. But really you'd have to have been there to understand what was going on.
However, the playoffs can be a fickle beast. The Oilers' James van Riemsdyk was determined to show that you didn't have to be a rookie to pull off what Connors had just done. The veteran forward would go on to score two goals as well - and he'd do it within six minutes. Some say a certain Detroit coach was pulling his hair right about then. They had mistakenly thought the Oilers had been broken. And yet the score board suddenly read 4 - 4. To make matters worse, van Riemsdyk had succeeded in scoring that second goal just 23 seconds before the final buzzer. That would not serve the Red Wing morale greatly on the overtime. They were in fact completely unprepared for going to the overtime. Inexperience, said the critics. And Ockey, obviously not commenting on the matter, did not disagree. Goalie Askarov threw his stick at the boards in a rare display of emotion. Luckily no penalty was called for it.
Overtime 1. Unprepared as they were, the Red Wings were on the defensive when the overtime began. Defense, defense, defense: That's what Blashill was shouting. Ockey was quiet, standing next to the hallway towards the locker rooms. He could hear Blashill's commanding voice echoing through. The Red Wings would have to be careful indeed. Somehow Ockey felt he suddenly had an awful lot to lose.
And the fatigue was gnawing on everyone on the ice. The only positive was that apparently the Oilers weren't unaffected by it despite a far shorter path to the finals. It made sense too - the Oilers had been forced to work extremely hard in the final series. Despite them having shown superiority on numerous occasions and having great determination and skill, things had not been going their way. Their back against the wall in game 4 it was no surprise they had been giving everything there was to give. But despite the Oilers doing everything they possibly could they were not able to finish the job.
Eighty minutes having been played and the game headed into second overtime, it was no secret that the Red Wings were the more tired team. They had had to face two extremely taxing series on their run while already weakened by injuries. The 'defense only' approach the Red Wing coaches had deemed necessary in order to survive the first overtime had really drained whatever reserves there might have been left.
Overtime 2. The fatigue didn't show any mercy when the second overtime began. But the Red Wings had been able to insert some more thought into their play and they were now trying to preserve energy by passing the puck as much as possible. Coaches had been selling them the idea they should play as if they had a three goal lead. They had tried to explain time was on their side. But for the players it sure didn't feel like that. Excruciatingly tired, even the more experienced players were facing difficulty staying focused. But in the end experience would be the deciding factor. Experience - and adrenaline.
Almost nine minutes into the second overtime the adrenaline stepped in. Edmonton's Darnell Nurse threw a big hit on Detroit's Tomasino. It was a clean hit but Tomasino's reaction didn't reflect that. Everyone had been tense since the start and it was all too easy to just snap. Nurse had successfully gotten under Tomasino's skin. Patrik Nemeth was lucky to stop Tomasino before he'd do anything rash. Adrenaline was still pumping when Tomasino went on to take the next faceoff. Critics wondered why Blashill hadn't called Tomasino in. But the critics were soon silenced because experience was about to step in.
Sami Vatanen was going to dump the puck for a line change. But right when he was about to dump it to the left corner, he instead made a slow pass to the middle - right where Philip Tomasino was found skating towards the bench. Tomasino got the hint. The adrenaline allowed him to overcome the fatigue for one more spurt of speed and experience had served him an excellent pass. The Oiler defensemen bumped into eachother in confusion. Tomasino was immediately past them. He saw Anthony Mantha racing in through the middle. He faked a shot and Rodrigue bought it - and dropped. Tomasino made a quick pass to Mantha who had a perfect spot to shoot. And Mantha's wrist shot hit the top of the net missing Rodrigue's desperate glove by just a bit. And so at 9:21 of the second overtime the game 4 had been won.
The Detroit Red Wings had won the Stanley Cup.
They had really won - and there was to be great celebration.
The celebration would have to wait till Detroit however. Streets of Edmonton did not seem very hospitable that night. But there would be celebration. There would be a parade. There would be red carpets and bright lights. Fans would be chanting. Trophies would be awarded. Speeches would be given. Pictures would be taken. There would be stories of legend. But Harrison Ockey felt empty. And he wasn't even thinking about his future. Or the fact that his GM career was over.
Last edited by TurboJ on Fri Mar 27, 2020 6:44 am, edited 3 times in total.
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TurboJ
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Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
2024 Playoffs: Aftermath
The Red Wings lineup on the final series:
A.Ovechkin - D.Larkin - Liam Connors
A.Lundell - P.Tomasino - A.Mantha
A.Athanasiou - B.Hayton - T.Bertuzzi
D.Gutik - J.de la Rose - N.Niederreiter
E.Brännström - S.Vatanen
T.J.Brodie - P.Nemeth
D.DeKeyser - Carter Robertson
1.Y.Askarov 2.T.Gauthier
Key Red Wing players in the 2024 playoffs
-Philip Tomasino (F) with 16 goals and 24 total points in 20 playoff games
-Alex Ovechkin (F) with 22 total points in 22 playoff games
-Anthony Mantha (F) with 19 total points and 98 shots on goal in 22 playoff games
-Sami Vatanen (D) with 15 total points and 23.23 average TOI in 22 playoff games
-Yaroslav Askarov (G) with 12 wins, 2.37GAA and 0.905 save pct in 17 playoff games
....
The Media's Pet
Rogers Place Edmonton. Evening of game four of the finals. The first question the reporters had was the usual one. Ockey would normally have been annoyed by the thought of twenty microphones poking at him. This time was different however. Ockey thought he might as well see what it felt like. After all this was going to be the first time - and the last.
The reporters, knowing that Ockey wasn't famous for his love of the media, suggested they'd only ask three questions in hopes that Ockey would comment on at least one. "I'll give you four" was Ockey's surprising reply.
To that usual first question Ockey simply responded that he felt great. But it was quite clear he wasn't being honest. In truth Ockey was greatly bothered by what the president of the board had just done. When the team had begun their celebrations on the ice the president had been there to congratulate mr.Ockey. He had been smiling when he shook Ockey's hand. He had even embraced him. But while it looked like the usual congratulations to a champion GM, the president had faked it all. With the embrace he had whispered into Ockey's ear that he was expected to empty his office that same night. And apparently the security personnel would be on duty to make sure that he did.
The second question had to do with the 'heroic battles' the Red Wings had had against the Carolina Hurricanes as well as against the New York Rangers. Ockey gave all the credit to his opponents and said he'd not have been surprised at all to see the Rangers win their second cup in a row. But he did add that the Red Wings, in his eyes, should have been stronger against Carolina. Despite their unexpected victory in the cup finals Ockey summarized the Red Wings had shown they didn't quite reach the level of play they were supposed to.
Reporters, having mustered up more courage by then, went on to inquire about Ockey's curious player choices. Ockey still didn't deviate from his chosen stance and kept things professional. He simply stated that he'd chosen the players he felt had the greatest chance of turning the odds in Detroit's favor. "Our prospect development has been strong for some time" Ockey had added.
The last question inevitably touched on the subject of Connor McDavid. The Oilers that season had in fact been criticized much in the same way as had the Red Wings. Criticized for building too heavily on individual talent. But despite the polarized opinions concerning roster depth there was no denying McDavid's extraordinary playoff contribution. That being said, Ockey's final comment was what really made headlines. "Connor McDavid is a highly underrated player" he'd say. And then he'd walk away.
The Red Wings lineup on the final series:
A.Ovechkin - D.Larkin - Liam Connors
A.Lundell - P.Tomasino - A.Mantha
A.Athanasiou - B.Hayton - T.Bertuzzi
D.Gutik - J.de la Rose - N.Niederreiter
E.Brännström - S.Vatanen
T.J.Brodie - P.Nemeth
D.DeKeyser - Carter Robertson
1.Y.Askarov 2.T.Gauthier
Key Red Wing players in the 2024 playoffs
-Philip Tomasino (F) with 16 goals and 24 total points in 20 playoff games
-Alex Ovechkin (F) with 22 total points in 22 playoff games
-Anthony Mantha (F) with 19 total points and 98 shots on goal in 22 playoff games
-Sami Vatanen (D) with 15 total points and 23.23 average TOI in 22 playoff games
-Yaroslav Askarov (G) with 12 wins, 2.37GAA and 0.905 save pct in 17 playoff games
....
The Media's Pet
Rogers Place Edmonton. Evening of game four of the finals. The first question the reporters had was the usual one. Ockey would normally have been annoyed by the thought of twenty microphones poking at him. This time was different however. Ockey thought he might as well see what it felt like. After all this was going to be the first time - and the last.
The reporters, knowing that Ockey wasn't famous for his love of the media, suggested they'd only ask three questions in hopes that Ockey would comment on at least one. "I'll give you four" was Ockey's surprising reply.
To that usual first question Ockey simply responded that he felt great. But it was quite clear he wasn't being honest. In truth Ockey was greatly bothered by what the president of the board had just done. When the team had begun their celebrations on the ice the president had been there to congratulate mr.Ockey. He had been smiling when he shook Ockey's hand. He had even embraced him. But while it looked like the usual congratulations to a champion GM, the president had faked it all. With the embrace he had whispered into Ockey's ear that he was expected to empty his office that same night. And apparently the security personnel would be on duty to make sure that he did.
The second question had to do with the 'heroic battles' the Red Wings had had against the Carolina Hurricanes as well as against the New York Rangers. Ockey gave all the credit to his opponents and said he'd not have been surprised at all to see the Rangers win their second cup in a row. But he did add that the Red Wings, in his eyes, should have been stronger against Carolina. Despite their unexpected victory in the cup finals Ockey summarized the Red Wings had shown they didn't quite reach the level of play they were supposed to.
Reporters, having mustered up more courage by then, went on to inquire about Ockey's curious player choices. Ockey still didn't deviate from his chosen stance and kept things professional. He simply stated that he'd chosen the players he felt had the greatest chance of turning the odds in Detroit's favor. "Our prospect development has been strong for some time" Ockey had added.
The last question inevitably touched on the subject of Connor McDavid. The Oilers that season had in fact been criticized much in the same way as had the Red Wings. Criticized for building too heavily on individual talent. But despite the polarized opinions concerning roster depth there was no denying McDavid's extraordinary playoff contribution. That being said, Ockey's final comment was what really made headlines. "Connor McDavid is a highly underrated player" he'd say. And then he'd walk away.
Last edited by TurboJ on Fri Mar 27, 2020 6:15 am, edited 2 times in total.
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TurboJ
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Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
The Curious Proceedings of 2024 continued
The Fighter
Ockey's famous golden jacket would never be seen again once the final buzzer had gone off. For the interview he had been wearing a regular suit just like any normal GM.
It was no surprise that Harrison Ockey, the now former General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings did not go near his office that night. He in fact did what the cup-winning players would not expect. He joined the party along with everyone else. And he'd be friendly towards the players. Some say he was even heard complimenting one of them. If only for that single night, Ockey had been a true Red Wing champion. But making it through the celebrations had not been easy for Ockey. By the next morning he had vanished without a trace.
...
I could have been a contender. Echoing in his head the thought haunted Ockey as he slowly walked the bank of Lake St.Clair. He had not yet turned 40. He'd won the Stanley Cup. But he could never forget how hollow it felt. Bitter even. He found no joy in his achievement. It had been all wrong. In Ockey's mind he should have been hoisting the cup as a player, not as a manager. And he was to blame. He himself had caused the failure. He would never forgive himself for it. An overwhelming sadness took him.
Ockey had decided well in advance he'd stay clear of Tecumseh Road. He had had enough of the publicity. An assistant had collected his bags from his house before the final series had even begun.
Harrison Ockey would never wear his Stanley Cup ring. Instead he'd put the ring in an envelope and mail it to a small Ontario town . There was no letter attached. But for the recipient there would be no mistake about the message. With tears in her eyes did the old woman hold that envelope against her chest. And as soon as she put the envelope in the drawer that's where it would ever remain. That day was her son's birthday. But she knew there would be no celebration. There never was.
The Businessman
One summer day in 2024 the Red Wings board of directors were having a meeting. Their plan regarding the team's future was supposed to be the focus. But right in the middle they received a call from a security guard. It's mr.Ockey he'd said. And indeed it was Harrison Ockey standing before the front door of the arena looking confident as ever.
Upon the chairman's arrival the security guard seemed hesitant. He knew that under no circumstances was mr.Ockey to ever enter the building again. But Ockey had said to him something about ten lawyers. Fortunately the chairman had convinced the rest of the board he should be the one to go. When he saw Ockey standing there with his hands crossed and wearing shades, the chairman knew something was up.
In reality Ockey would be almost friendly towards the chairman. Those two never were the worst of enemies. But Ockey's message wasn't friendly in nature. He explained that a lawsuit had already been prepared. Apparently Ockey knew his office had been wiped clean. The whereabouts of all his belongings he knew not. And while Ockey's shades did their best to hide the fact, the chairman could swear Ockey had winked at him when he'd said the board members were all in serious trouble.
The chairman didn't quite know what to say. To put it mildly, there had been arguments between said board members. Arguments about Harrison Ockey and the future of the Red Wings. Admittedly the Stanley Cup victory had been controversial. But certain members of the board had begun to express positive remarks on Ockey. The board, it seemed, had not been acting together when Ockey's belongings had gone missing. At the very least, the circumstances dictated that the chairman listen to what Ockey had to say. Curiously though, Ockey didn't have an awful lot more to say.
They made him an offer he couldn't refuse. That's what Ockey said. The chairman certainly had no idea what he was talking about. But apparently there was an e-mail with a street address included. An address in Las Vegas. And if Ockey's belongings were to somehow pop up somewhere, the chairman would do well to have them sent to that address. Especially the pictures. The chairman did understand the remark about the pictures. Ockey had kept three large pictures on his office wall and he wanted them back. The picture of Howe and Gretzky he knew. And so too the picture with the 'Russian Five'. But the chairman had always felt it odd that Ockey had kept a picture of some race horse on his wall too.
Ockey walked away immediately after stating his business. The chairman and the security guard looked at each other, both still confused. In the end it was the security guard who shouted after Ockey who'd almost reached his car already. He wanted to know what kind of a deal Vegas had offered. Ockey said ten. The chairman had no idea what had been going on since Ockey had vanished. And as for his vanished belongings - the board never had anything to do with it. But the chairman did not know that.
The Fighter
Ockey's famous golden jacket would never be seen again once the final buzzer had gone off. For the interview he had been wearing a regular suit just like any normal GM.
It was no surprise that Harrison Ockey, the now former General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings did not go near his office that night. He in fact did what the cup-winning players would not expect. He joined the party along with everyone else. And he'd be friendly towards the players. Some say he was even heard complimenting one of them. If only for that single night, Ockey had been a true Red Wing champion. But making it through the celebrations had not been easy for Ockey. By the next morning he had vanished without a trace.
...
I could have been a contender. Echoing in his head the thought haunted Ockey as he slowly walked the bank of Lake St.Clair. He had not yet turned 40. He'd won the Stanley Cup. But he could never forget how hollow it felt. Bitter even. He found no joy in his achievement. It had been all wrong. In Ockey's mind he should have been hoisting the cup as a player, not as a manager. And he was to blame. He himself had caused the failure. He would never forgive himself for it. An overwhelming sadness took him.
Ockey had decided well in advance he'd stay clear of Tecumseh Road. He had had enough of the publicity. An assistant had collected his bags from his house before the final series had even begun.
Harrison Ockey would never wear his Stanley Cup ring. Instead he'd put the ring in an envelope and mail it to a small Ontario town . There was no letter attached. But for the recipient there would be no mistake about the message. With tears in her eyes did the old woman hold that envelope against her chest. And as soon as she put the envelope in the drawer that's where it would ever remain. That day was her son's birthday. But she knew there would be no celebration. There never was.
The Businessman
One summer day in 2024 the Red Wings board of directors were having a meeting. Their plan regarding the team's future was supposed to be the focus. But right in the middle they received a call from a security guard. It's mr.Ockey he'd said. And indeed it was Harrison Ockey standing before the front door of the arena looking confident as ever.
Upon the chairman's arrival the security guard seemed hesitant. He knew that under no circumstances was mr.Ockey to ever enter the building again. But Ockey had said to him something about ten lawyers. Fortunately the chairman had convinced the rest of the board he should be the one to go. When he saw Ockey standing there with his hands crossed and wearing shades, the chairman knew something was up.
In reality Ockey would be almost friendly towards the chairman. Those two never were the worst of enemies. But Ockey's message wasn't friendly in nature. He explained that a lawsuit had already been prepared. Apparently Ockey knew his office had been wiped clean. The whereabouts of all his belongings he knew not. And while Ockey's shades did their best to hide the fact, the chairman could swear Ockey had winked at him when he'd said the board members were all in serious trouble.
The chairman didn't quite know what to say. To put it mildly, there had been arguments between said board members. Arguments about Harrison Ockey and the future of the Red Wings. Admittedly the Stanley Cup victory had been controversial. But certain members of the board had begun to express positive remarks on Ockey. The board, it seemed, had not been acting together when Ockey's belongings had gone missing. At the very least, the circumstances dictated that the chairman listen to what Ockey had to say. Curiously though, Ockey didn't have an awful lot more to say.
They made him an offer he couldn't refuse. That's what Ockey said. The chairman certainly had no idea what he was talking about. But apparently there was an e-mail with a street address included. An address in Las Vegas. And if Ockey's belongings were to somehow pop up somewhere, the chairman would do well to have them sent to that address. Especially the pictures. The chairman did understand the remark about the pictures. Ockey had kept three large pictures on his office wall and he wanted them back. The picture of Howe and Gretzky he knew. And so too the picture with the 'Russian Five'. But the chairman had always felt it odd that Ockey had kept a picture of some race horse on his wall too.
Ockey walked away immediately after stating his business. The chairman and the security guard looked at each other, both still confused. In the end it was the security guard who shouted after Ockey who'd almost reached his car already. He wanted to know what kind of a deal Vegas had offered. Ockey said ten. The chairman had no idea what had been going on since Ockey had vanished. And as for his vanished belongings - the board never had anything to do with it. But the chairman did not know that.
Last edited by TurboJ on Sun Mar 29, 2020 6:41 am, edited 4 times in total.
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TurboJ
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- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
The Curious Proceedings of 2024 continued: The Summer
The Stuntman
The very same evening when Ockey had appeared at the arena, "the thing" was all over the news. The local sports media around the Detroit area were all discussing it. What would it mean for the Red Wings? What would it mean for the Vegas Golden Knights? As the news got out that Harrison Ockey was really leaving Detroit, suddenly the media seemed to have adopted a completely different view on him.
The timing was perfect. Most of the Red Wings' staff were still in 'champion mode'. Sixteen years. That's how long it had been since the last time there had been a Stanley Cup celebration in Detroit. Understandably the uncertainty looming over the future had not yet taken over.
The board's meeting would suddenly turn into a very long one. They had read the e-mail Ockey's assistant had sent. They had heard what the chairman reported of Ockey's appearance. And right in the middle of it one of them received a text message telling him to turn the TV on. The board members didn't know what to think of it. The TV program was all about the Vegas deal. One of the hosts on that TV show kept repeating the same question: "Why did they force Ockey out of hockey town?"
It is still not entirely clear what happened next. Much of it will likely always remain unknown. What is known however, is that a large restructuring of the Red Wings management soon took place. For two of the board members that evening's meeting was to be their last. Regarding the reasons for their choice of stepping aside no statements were ever given. But for better or worse, things were going to change in Detroit.
Ockey had disappeared again after leaving the arena. He wasn't around to shed any light on what was going on. But to some of those who were following the events it did strike as odd that there were no statements from the Vegas Golden Knights either. It was odd too that the big news were seemingly not making many headlines outside of Michigan.
The Driver
Harrison Ockey had many unusual habits. Often he'd be nowhere to be found at times when his presence was very much expected. The summer of 2024 was one of those times. And despite Ockey not being around in person, those days he seemed to be quite the celebrity. It only added to the buzz surrounding the whole 'Ockey Issue' that any hard facts were in very short supply. Looking back it's easy to understand why that was the case. At the time only one or two key people were aware of the grand scheme of things.
Since Ockey had mostly avoided all the cameras and microphones for his entire Red Wing career, it was never too difficult for him to blend in with the public and hide in plain sight. Then, two days after the biggest media circus Ockey headed North.
As he was driving through the countryside Ockey had time to think. He would dwell on many things that had happened during his time with the Wings. Maybe he'd gone too far. Though he would never consider commenting on the issue, privately he could see some of the mistakes he had made. Always displaying an unchallenged confidence on the outside, Ockey found himself guilty of two major errors. He had been pushing some of the players too much. But to him the biggest error had been that he'd started to listen to his critics. He hadn't followed his plan to the full. Instead he had made short-term decisions with the aim of protecting his own job. Shameful, he thought. Cowardly even.
Stick to the plan - no matter the cost. Ockey tried very hard to persuade himself to believe he could return to form just like that. But there was no escape. It was too late. For all he knew the whole plan of his might already have been at an end.
The Stuntman
The very same evening when Ockey had appeared at the arena, "the thing" was all over the news. The local sports media around the Detroit area were all discussing it. What would it mean for the Red Wings? What would it mean for the Vegas Golden Knights? As the news got out that Harrison Ockey was really leaving Detroit, suddenly the media seemed to have adopted a completely different view on him.
The timing was perfect. Most of the Red Wings' staff were still in 'champion mode'. Sixteen years. That's how long it had been since the last time there had been a Stanley Cup celebration in Detroit. Understandably the uncertainty looming over the future had not yet taken over.
The board's meeting would suddenly turn into a very long one. They had read the e-mail Ockey's assistant had sent. They had heard what the chairman reported of Ockey's appearance. And right in the middle of it one of them received a text message telling him to turn the TV on. The board members didn't know what to think of it. The TV program was all about the Vegas deal. One of the hosts on that TV show kept repeating the same question: "Why did they force Ockey out of hockey town?"
It is still not entirely clear what happened next. Much of it will likely always remain unknown. What is known however, is that a large restructuring of the Red Wings management soon took place. For two of the board members that evening's meeting was to be their last. Regarding the reasons for their choice of stepping aside no statements were ever given. But for better or worse, things were going to change in Detroit.
Ockey had disappeared again after leaving the arena. He wasn't around to shed any light on what was going on. But to some of those who were following the events it did strike as odd that there were no statements from the Vegas Golden Knights either. It was odd too that the big news were seemingly not making many headlines outside of Michigan.
The Driver
Harrison Ockey had many unusual habits. Often he'd be nowhere to be found at times when his presence was very much expected. The summer of 2024 was one of those times. And despite Ockey not being around in person, those days he seemed to be quite the celebrity. It only added to the buzz surrounding the whole 'Ockey Issue' that any hard facts were in very short supply. Looking back it's easy to understand why that was the case. At the time only one or two key people were aware of the grand scheme of things.
Since Ockey had mostly avoided all the cameras and microphones for his entire Red Wing career, it was never too difficult for him to blend in with the public and hide in plain sight. Then, two days after the biggest media circus Ockey headed North.
As he was driving through the countryside Ockey had time to think. He would dwell on many things that had happened during his time with the Wings. Maybe he'd gone too far. Though he would never consider commenting on the issue, privately he could see some of the mistakes he had made. Always displaying an unchallenged confidence on the outside, Ockey found himself guilty of two major errors. He had been pushing some of the players too much. But to him the biggest error had been that he'd started to listen to his critics. He hadn't followed his plan to the full. Instead he had made short-term decisions with the aim of protecting his own job. Shameful, he thought. Cowardly even.
Stick to the plan - no matter the cost. Ockey tried very hard to persuade himself to believe he could return to form just like that. But there was no escape. It was too late. For all he knew the whole plan of his might already have been at an end.
Last edited by TurboJ on Sun Mar 29, 2020 11:05 am, edited 6 times in total.
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TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
....Summer 2024 continued
The Teacher
The surprise invitation Ockey had received could not have happened at a better time. Ockey was nervous not knowing who exactly he was supposed to meet. All he knew was the person delivering the message had been adamant that he should go. No name had been mentioned. Only an address.
A stubborn man Harrison Ockey was. Stuck in the past as it were. He would rather say old school of course. Frankly Ockey was in many ways living in the past. Whether it was a bad thing is another question entirely. Ockey always thought there was much to be learned from the history. But perhaps Ockey took his old school ways a bit too seriously. It was 2024 and he would still not give up on his old Ford that he had once inherited from his uncle. And still driving that old rusty Ford he finally reached his destination.
Ockey had no idea what the invitation was about. He had to double check the address - but evidently he had arrived at someone's house on the lakeside. At first it seemed like nobody was home. Ockey had waited two minutes at the door when someone appeared around the corner. "Ah, I though it was you" said the elderly man. "I heard your car. They sure don't make 'em like they used to" said the gray-haired gentleman with a smile.
The smile never seemed to fade away. The elderly man acted as if Ockey was some old friend, all casual and relaxed. But Ockey had never met this man before. "Take a seat" he said. "Make yourself comfortable". Ockey recognized him though. For this occasion on the lake house porch, Ockey would behave himself. He was going to listen and the old man would do the talking.
The tanned old man still smiling as he worked on the barbecue, Ockey's thoughts took him back to his youth. Lulled by the calm waves of the lake he saw the trees drop their leaves as they turned into orange and yellow. Then came the snow and soon the lake had frozen. He could feel the winter breeze. He could hear the children's joyful voices. There was a hockey game on. And for a brief moment Harrison Ockey was on the ice wearing the far too big wool cap he used to. He was just about to shoot the puck when he was interrupted by a friendly voice.
"I played a lot of hockey on that lake" said the old man. He was wearing shorts and a tee shirt. And slippers. It was summer again as the old man joined Ockey at the table. What followed seemed like any casual chat at first. But the old man would then go on to tell many stories from a time long gone.
Ockey was mesmerized as he continued to quietly listen. It was just the stories themselves as much as it was the man telling them. Ockey had not seen it coming. But for a moment he felt like he had been given a new chance. A fresh view at everything. Through all the stories the old man never quit smiling. But having finished his story, there was a pause. And suddenly the old man's face turned very serious. His deep blue eyes suddenly had a piercing look. Ockey would never forget that day.
"See mr.Ockey. I know what it's like" said the old man. "But you have to remember who's in charge. The kids on the ice - they'll do whatever it takes to win." There was another pause. "And they do not know the cost." The wind stood still and it seemed like even the birds had ceased to sing. "Someone needs to know the cost." said the old man with great authority. "Never forget the cost" he finished. And just as quickly as things had turned serious he was smiling again. And for a while still the talk continued as it had begun.
After the unexpected meeting Ockey felt the need for some time to think. He steered his old Ford further North where there was a small, quiet beach. For a long while he'd sit there. Things will be different from now on, he thought. "I need to be the one who takes the risks" he'd say to himself. Suddenly Ockey heard a clacking noise. A young boy had arrived at the beach along with a man carrying something on his back. Apparently the boy was there to practice fencing with his teacher. Once they had begun, Ockey soon heard the teacher's sharp voice as he instructed the boy: "Your parry was sound" he said. "But you must learn control".
The Teacher
The surprise invitation Ockey had received could not have happened at a better time. Ockey was nervous not knowing who exactly he was supposed to meet. All he knew was the person delivering the message had been adamant that he should go. No name had been mentioned. Only an address.
A stubborn man Harrison Ockey was. Stuck in the past as it were. He would rather say old school of course. Frankly Ockey was in many ways living in the past. Whether it was a bad thing is another question entirely. Ockey always thought there was much to be learned from the history. But perhaps Ockey took his old school ways a bit too seriously. It was 2024 and he would still not give up on his old Ford that he had once inherited from his uncle. And still driving that old rusty Ford he finally reached his destination.
Ockey had no idea what the invitation was about. He had to double check the address - but evidently he had arrived at someone's house on the lakeside. At first it seemed like nobody was home. Ockey had waited two minutes at the door when someone appeared around the corner. "Ah, I though it was you" said the elderly man. "I heard your car. They sure don't make 'em like they used to" said the gray-haired gentleman with a smile.
The smile never seemed to fade away. The elderly man acted as if Ockey was some old friend, all casual and relaxed. But Ockey had never met this man before. "Take a seat" he said. "Make yourself comfortable". Ockey recognized him though. For this occasion on the lake house porch, Ockey would behave himself. He was going to listen and the old man would do the talking.
The tanned old man still smiling as he worked on the barbecue, Ockey's thoughts took him back to his youth. Lulled by the calm waves of the lake he saw the trees drop their leaves as they turned into orange and yellow. Then came the snow and soon the lake had frozen. He could feel the winter breeze. He could hear the children's joyful voices. There was a hockey game on. And for a brief moment Harrison Ockey was on the ice wearing the far too big wool cap he used to. He was just about to shoot the puck when he was interrupted by a friendly voice.
"I played a lot of hockey on that lake" said the old man. He was wearing shorts and a tee shirt. And slippers. It was summer again as the old man joined Ockey at the table. What followed seemed like any casual chat at first. But the old man would then go on to tell many stories from a time long gone.
Ockey was mesmerized as he continued to quietly listen. It was just the stories themselves as much as it was the man telling them. Ockey had not seen it coming. But for a moment he felt like he had been given a new chance. A fresh view at everything. Through all the stories the old man never quit smiling. But having finished his story, there was a pause. And suddenly the old man's face turned very serious. His deep blue eyes suddenly had a piercing look. Ockey would never forget that day.
"See mr.Ockey. I know what it's like" said the old man. "But you have to remember who's in charge. The kids on the ice - they'll do whatever it takes to win." There was another pause. "And they do not know the cost." The wind stood still and it seemed like even the birds had ceased to sing. "Someone needs to know the cost." said the old man with great authority. "Never forget the cost" he finished. And just as quickly as things had turned serious he was smiling again. And for a while still the talk continued as it had begun.
After the unexpected meeting Ockey felt the need for some time to think. He steered his old Ford further North where there was a small, quiet beach. For a long while he'd sit there. Things will be different from now on, he thought. "I need to be the one who takes the risks" he'd say to himself. Suddenly Ockey heard a clacking noise. A young boy had arrived at the beach along with a man carrying something on his back. Apparently the boy was there to practice fencing with his teacher. Once they had begun, Ockey soon heard the teacher's sharp voice as he instructed the boy: "Your parry was sound" he said. "But you must learn control".
Last edited by TurboJ on Sun Mar 29, 2020 6:58 am, edited 5 times in total.
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TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
....Summer 2024 continued
The Heirloom
The car was older than Ockey. "Dearborn Michigan". That's what uncle Frank had said to young Harrison as he passed him the keys to his beloved automobile. "Nineteen sixty eight Detroit muscle. Don't you ever lose this car, you rascal". Some things you could never forget. Uncle Frank was no longer able to drive. That's why he had decided to give the car to Harrison. And the rascal was not about to lose the car. Ever. The rust and the flaking green paint didn't bother Ockey in the least.
Not long after he'd turned onto the highway a brand new Dodge flew past him like a bullet. The deep black sedan must have been doing one fifty. Ockey was amused by the display. All that plastic and all the electrics - and they call it a Charger. Ridiculous. Uncle Frank would certainly have agreed. Be that as it may, Ockey was headed home as he gently squeezed the throttle. For a moment the old Mustang GT seemed to clear its throat. "Three ninety big block". Ockey could still hear the proud voice of his uncle. And painfully he remembered how things were never the same after he'd said his goodbyes to uncle Frank.
The Heirloom
The car was older than Ockey. "Dearborn Michigan". That's what uncle Frank had said to young Harrison as he passed him the keys to his beloved automobile. "Nineteen sixty eight Detroit muscle. Don't you ever lose this car, you rascal". Some things you could never forget. Uncle Frank was no longer able to drive. That's why he had decided to give the car to Harrison. And the rascal was not about to lose the car. Ever. The rust and the flaking green paint didn't bother Ockey in the least.
Not long after he'd turned onto the highway a brand new Dodge flew past him like a bullet. The deep black sedan must have been doing one fifty. Ockey was amused by the display. All that plastic and all the electrics - and they call it a Charger. Ridiculous. Uncle Frank would certainly have agreed. Be that as it may, Ockey was headed home as he gently squeezed the throttle. For a moment the old Mustang GT seemed to clear its throat. "Three ninety big block". Ockey could still hear the proud voice of his uncle. And painfully he remembered how things were never the same after he'd said his goodbyes to uncle Frank.
Last edited by TurboJ on Sun Mar 29, 2020 7:06 am, edited 1 time in total.
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TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
....Summer 2024 continued
The Comedy Draft
Chicago, Illinois. Draft day 2024. There had been no announcements. The Vegas Golden Knights had held no press conference. And neither had the Detroit Red Wings. There had been all kinds of wild stories floating around that summer. And it was easy to see why. The outsiders hadn't the slightest clue on what had been going on behind all the closed doors. But the surprise could hardly have been any greater when Harrison Ockey walked into the room. He was late as he often was - and he was wearing a Red Wing jacket.
Ockey was back. And most of the people in that room showed their surprise. It was one of those Ockey moments again. The ten first picks had been announced already. Assistant GM Datsyuk gave Ockey a signal as soon as he had arrived. He needed to have a word.
It was supposed to be a subtle whisper but the room had suddenly become very quiet. "They took him at six!" Datsyuk was clearly not happy. The Red Wings had #31 overall pick of course. They were still the reigning champions. Ockey tried to whisper too but it was in vain. "Are you sure about this?" He asked Datsyuk. The only reply was a determined gesture towards the New Jersey Devils' table.
Young Pontus Zetterberg was the issue - or rather his surprise emergence as the #10 ranked prospect for the 2024 draft. In Ockey's mind this kid should have been a round four pick, maybe round three if you were feeling adventurous. But since Ockey had been completely focused on the last season playoffs, he hadn't been paying much attention to the upcoming draft. There didn't seem to be much point since he wouldn't be involved anyway.
However, Ockey would be the man of the hour again. One of the humorous headlines appearing the next day used that phrase. And indeed some of the rival teams' staff started to laugh when Ockey made his move. What he did was walk right to the Devils' GM and lay a piece of paper on his table.
The Devils' GM didn't hide his amazement. He had drafted young Zetterberg at six which was seen as a huge gamble. And now there was Ockey who had come to his aid and was about to make his job much easier. The deal included three early draft picks going to Jersey - including the #31 overall pick for that same night. Devils would get winger Nino Niederreiter too. And they would get defenseman Charlie Desrochers and goalie Justin Arsenault, both of which were projected to become first class NHLers. Nobody in the right mind would have turned the offer down.
Privately Ockey was very concerned about the deal. Young Zetterberg could have been an interesting 'dark horse' kind of a pick on the later rounds. Ockey never had quite understood why the rating commission had ranked the young forward so high. In preparation for the draft Pontus Zetterberg had played just one season of hockey - his first season in six years. And it had been with an obscure U18 club in Sweden. The weirdest part was that he'd been playing in the lower tier U18 league instead of the premier one. And yet Zetterberg had somehow ended up being drafted first overall in previous season's CHL import draft - based only on his elementary school games he'd played five years earlier. With practically no player history and highly questionable talent, this youngster had suddenly become hugely expensive for mr.Ockey.
However, this whole story would never have been written if things were not about to get even more out of hand. As it turned out, Ockey was targeting another surprise prospect. There was a young Russian goaltender named Ilya Bryzgalov - that really was his name. To everyone's surprise, this goalie was drafted in the first round. A late second round pick had been expected. Sure enough, Harrison Ockey wasn't done. In last year's draft he had seemingly struck gold with his late round picks. He had scored not one but two goalie prospects who had received no attention from other GMs. Yet both of them had shown a prominent development burst in just one year. And what did Ockey do? He gave them both away of course.
It was San Jose who had drafted Ilya Bryzgalov. And despite his mediocre performances in the Russian MHL, the Sharks saw him as a future core player. They could only be convinced to give him up if they knew the replacement would be at least as good. Ockey gave them two replacements. And he added all the rest of his 2024 draft picks on top, all but the 7th rounder. The Sharks staff thought Ockey was crazy. But then again that was nothing new.
Consequently there wouldn't be much drafting for Ockey to do. He therefore decided this was a good time to tell the rest of his news to head coach Jeff Blashill.
The media were naturally in for a field day. Ockey had again traded away some of his most precious future assets. But that was not why the hockey world could hardly contain their laughter. The joke was that Ockey had just spent it all to bring in a forward named Zetterberg and a goalie named Bryzgalov. And neither of them had shown much in the way of talent or potential.
The Comedy Draft
Chicago, Illinois. Draft day 2024. There had been no announcements. The Vegas Golden Knights had held no press conference. And neither had the Detroit Red Wings. There had been all kinds of wild stories floating around that summer. And it was easy to see why. The outsiders hadn't the slightest clue on what had been going on behind all the closed doors. But the surprise could hardly have been any greater when Harrison Ockey walked into the room. He was late as he often was - and he was wearing a Red Wing jacket.
Ockey was back. And most of the people in that room showed their surprise. It was one of those Ockey moments again. The ten first picks had been announced already. Assistant GM Datsyuk gave Ockey a signal as soon as he had arrived. He needed to have a word.
It was supposed to be a subtle whisper but the room had suddenly become very quiet. "They took him at six!" Datsyuk was clearly not happy. The Red Wings had #31 overall pick of course. They were still the reigning champions. Ockey tried to whisper too but it was in vain. "Are you sure about this?" He asked Datsyuk. The only reply was a determined gesture towards the New Jersey Devils' table.
Young Pontus Zetterberg was the issue - or rather his surprise emergence as the #10 ranked prospect for the 2024 draft. In Ockey's mind this kid should have been a round four pick, maybe round three if you were feeling adventurous. But since Ockey had been completely focused on the last season playoffs, he hadn't been paying much attention to the upcoming draft. There didn't seem to be much point since he wouldn't be involved anyway.
However, Ockey would be the man of the hour again. One of the humorous headlines appearing the next day used that phrase. And indeed some of the rival teams' staff started to laugh when Ockey made his move. What he did was walk right to the Devils' GM and lay a piece of paper on his table.
The Devils' GM didn't hide his amazement. He had drafted young Zetterberg at six which was seen as a huge gamble. And now there was Ockey who had come to his aid and was about to make his job much easier. The deal included three early draft picks going to Jersey - including the #31 overall pick for that same night. Devils would get winger Nino Niederreiter too. And they would get defenseman Charlie Desrochers and goalie Justin Arsenault, both of which were projected to become first class NHLers. Nobody in the right mind would have turned the offer down.
Privately Ockey was very concerned about the deal. Young Zetterberg could have been an interesting 'dark horse' kind of a pick on the later rounds. Ockey never had quite understood why the rating commission had ranked the young forward so high. In preparation for the draft Pontus Zetterberg had played just one season of hockey - his first season in six years. And it had been with an obscure U18 club in Sweden. The weirdest part was that he'd been playing in the lower tier U18 league instead of the premier one. And yet Zetterberg had somehow ended up being drafted first overall in previous season's CHL import draft - based only on his elementary school games he'd played five years earlier. With practically no player history and highly questionable talent, this youngster had suddenly become hugely expensive for mr.Ockey.
However, this whole story would never have been written if things were not about to get even more out of hand. As it turned out, Ockey was targeting another surprise prospect. There was a young Russian goaltender named Ilya Bryzgalov - that really was his name. To everyone's surprise, this goalie was drafted in the first round. A late second round pick had been expected. Sure enough, Harrison Ockey wasn't done. In last year's draft he had seemingly struck gold with his late round picks. He had scored not one but two goalie prospects who had received no attention from other GMs. Yet both of them had shown a prominent development burst in just one year. And what did Ockey do? He gave them both away of course.
It was San Jose who had drafted Ilya Bryzgalov. And despite his mediocre performances in the Russian MHL, the Sharks saw him as a future core player. They could only be convinced to give him up if they knew the replacement would be at least as good. Ockey gave them two replacements. And he added all the rest of his 2024 draft picks on top, all but the 7th rounder. The Sharks staff thought Ockey was crazy. But then again that was nothing new.
Consequently there wouldn't be much drafting for Ockey to do. He therefore decided this was a good time to tell the rest of his news to head coach Jeff Blashill.
The media were naturally in for a field day. Ockey had again traded away some of his most precious future assets. But that was not why the hockey world could hardly contain their laughter. The joke was that Ockey had just spent it all to bring in a forward named Zetterberg and a goalie named Bryzgalov. And neither of them had shown much in the way of talent or potential.
Last edited by TurboJ on Sun Mar 29, 2020 12:41 pm, edited 6 times in total.
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TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
....Summer 2024 continued
The Cost of Absence
There had been a many developments while Ockey had been away. The negotiations Ockey had had with defenseman T.J.Brodie were never successful, not even in the middle of the Stanley Cup celebrations. Mr.Ockey was not happy when he heard that right after he'd left, Brodie had announced he wanted an extension after all. And his cap hit would have been more than reasonable. Thing is, the Detroit staff had turned him down. This time it was Ockey thinking they were crazy.
Nevertheless, the news to coach Blashill seemed to carry some importance. And Blashill had not been involved in Brodie leaving the team. But he didn't quite understand how Ockey's latest aquisition was going to help. It had been a busy summer behind the scenes. Ockey had signed a promising offensive defenseman who had been playing in Czech Republic. But the Slovakian in question, Martin Bodák, was already 25. And he had not played a single game in North America despite having once been drafted to the WHL. Undrafted to the NHL he had become something of a star in the Czech Extraliga having posted 173 points in his 238 games with HC Vítkovice. That was not bad for a defenseman.
Blashill tried hard not to think of this young man as a replacement for T.J.Brodie. Maybe there was an odd chance that Bodák could add some depth. But word had it the young defenseman didn't speak any English. "Don't worry about that" Ockey said. "I speak Slovak - and Czech." That failed to inspire much confidence in Blashill however. Scouts reported the young Slovak did indeed show offensive talent. But he was not known to be a particularly good skater.
The Cost of Absence
There had been a many developments while Ockey had been away. The negotiations Ockey had had with defenseman T.J.Brodie were never successful, not even in the middle of the Stanley Cup celebrations. Mr.Ockey was not happy when he heard that right after he'd left, Brodie had announced he wanted an extension after all. And his cap hit would have been more than reasonable. Thing is, the Detroit staff had turned him down. This time it was Ockey thinking they were crazy.
Nevertheless, the news to coach Blashill seemed to carry some importance. And Blashill had not been involved in Brodie leaving the team. But he didn't quite understand how Ockey's latest aquisition was going to help. It had been a busy summer behind the scenes. Ockey had signed a promising offensive defenseman who had been playing in Czech Republic. But the Slovakian in question, Martin Bodák, was already 25. And he had not played a single game in North America despite having once been drafted to the WHL. Undrafted to the NHL he had become something of a star in the Czech Extraliga having posted 173 points in his 238 games with HC Vítkovice. That was not bad for a defenseman.
Blashill tried hard not to think of this young man as a replacement for T.J.Brodie. Maybe there was an odd chance that Bodák could add some depth. But word had it the young defenseman didn't speak any English. "Don't worry about that" Ockey said. "I speak Slovak - and Czech." That failed to inspire much confidence in Blashill however. Scouts reported the young Slovak did indeed show offensive talent. But he was not known to be a particularly good skater.
Last edited by TurboJ on Tue Mar 31, 2020 6:14 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
NHL Awards 2024
The Serious Man
As he walked to the front of the room that day, Harrison Ockey could very clearly remember his first year as an NHL General Manager. The years had not taught him to appreciate such occasions any better but at the 2024 NHL Awards some things were different. He was the General Manager of the year. Ockey made no mistake - he would always maintain some of the votes must have had a hint of sarcasm about them. A champion GM he might have been but he was not a popular man. Neither did he ever expect to be.
His speech didn't disappoint. It pure was pure Ockey talk all right - and it was brief. "You know I don't deserve this" he said. "But I know better". Only a few got the joke. If Ockey did ever take a shot at humor, he had a very distinct way about it. He made sure the joke would be lost on most people. And it would always be served with a straight face. Of course the result would probably not have been any different if he actually tried to be funny - which he never did. Ockey was all business. His business to be precise.
"Rather just give it to Kyle". That's what Ockey was thinking as he found his way back to his seat. A wretched job it was to be a GM. Held accountable for everything yet not allowed to intervene in anything. Ockey did intervene of course. But when he started his managing career in the NHL it didn't take long for him to see how things worked. He didn't go with the flow. But the flow could never be stopped. Whether by some twisted fate or by frivolous choice, many careers would end as quickly as they had begun. People would be robbed of Hockey just like Ockey had been many years ago.
Mike Babcock had become a big hero after leading the Toronto Maple Leafs to their '2019-'2020 Stanley Cup. Everyone loved Babcock - not only the Leaf players and co-workers but his rivals too. Even the media loved him. He retired from hockey a celebrated man. Ockey would never forget that. And neither would he forget how Kyle Dubas was soon fired from his position as the GM. It didn't seem to matter that both men had shared the exact same success. The treatment they ended up facing could hardly have been more different. GM of the year - whatever. Ockey was as cynical as always. Rather just give it to Kyle. At least he might appreciate it.
All the Gold in the World
Even while basking in his typical cynicism Ockey was happy for his players. At long last he had a chance to look at the future without a constant fear of flying out the door as soon as the sun went down. This allowed him to see that many Red Wing players did deserve to be rewarded. And not least because of all the uncertainty they had gone through that summer.
Dylan Larkin had worked extremely hard throughout the season and the results had left little to be desired. It was fitting that he received the Ted Lindsay award in addition to his second Art Ross. Philip Tomasino undoubtedly deserved the Conn Smythe and Lady Byng trophies - the Red Wings would never have won the cup without him. The Calder trophy going to Anton Lundell was a testimony to his persistence. He had exceeded all expectations playing his defensive role like a veteran despite his young age of 22.
The Red Wings were highly decorated indeed. Ockey didn't want to spoil the occasion for others despite his own inability of enjoying the success. In all honesty it was a bit over the top with all the awards. But with the same honesty it wouldn't have been right to have it any other way. Jeff Blashill, if anyone, did deserve the Jack Adams award. If the Stanley Cup run wasn't enough then at least he should be rewarded for his dedication and all the hard work. Especially considering what he had to face at work every day. Or rather more specifically who he had to face.
Erik Brännström's second Norris trophy met with less criticism than his first. Point production of defensemen had been on a general decline for quite some time. And though Brännström had seen his fair share of controversy being pretty much all offense, he did lead the league in points scored by a defenseman once again. Finishing the long list of Red Wing trophies was Anthony Mantha with the Bill Masterton trophy. And indeed it was the effort he put into his game that was even more impressive than his scoring ability.
...
Of the other major trophies Igor Shestyorkin of the Rangers deservedly won the Vezina while the Hart Trophy went to Vladimir Tarasenko of the Blues. And even though the star forwards of the Red Wings and the Oilers had been dominant, none stood out as a team MVP quite like Tarasenko who had been pretty much the entire offense of the St.Louis Blues that season.
The Serious Man
As he walked to the front of the room that day, Harrison Ockey could very clearly remember his first year as an NHL General Manager. The years had not taught him to appreciate such occasions any better but at the 2024 NHL Awards some things were different. He was the General Manager of the year. Ockey made no mistake - he would always maintain some of the votes must have had a hint of sarcasm about them. A champion GM he might have been but he was not a popular man. Neither did he ever expect to be.
His speech didn't disappoint. It pure was pure Ockey talk all right - and it was brief. "You know I don't deserve this" he said. "But I know better". Only a few got the joke. If Ockey did ever take a shot at humor, he had a very distinct way about it. He made sure the joke would be lost on most people. And it would always be served with a straight face. Of course the result would probably not have been any different if he actually tried to be funny - which he never did. Ockey was all business. His business to be precise.
"Rather just give it to Kyle". That's what Ockey was thinking as he found his way back to his seat. A wretched job it was to be a GM. Held accountable for everything yet not allowed to intervene in anything. Ockey did intervene of course. But when he started his managing career in the NHL it didn't take long for him to see how things worked. He didn't go with the flow. But the flow could never be stopped. Whether by some twisted fate or by frivolous choice, many careers would end as quickly as they had begun. People would be robbed of Hockey just like Ockey had been many years ago.
Mike Babcock had become a big hero after leading the Toronto Maple Leafs to their '2019-'2020 Stanley Cup. Everyone loved Babcock - not only the Leaf players and co-workers but his rivals too. Even the media loved him. He retired from hockey a celebrated man. Ockey would never forget that. And neither would he forget how Kyle Dubas was soon fired from his position as the GM. It didn't seem to matter that both men had shared the exact same success. The treatment they ended up facing could hardly have been more different. GM of the year - whatever. Ockey was as cynical as always. Rather just give it to Kyle. At least he might appreciate it.
All the Gold in the World
Even while basking in his typical cynicism Ockey was happy for his players. At long last he had a chance to look at the future without a constant fear of flying out the door as soon as the sun went down. This allowed him to see that many Red Wing players did deserve to be rewarded. And not least because of all the uncertainty they had gone through that summer.
Dylan Larkin had worked extremely hard throughout the season and the results had left little to be desired. It was fitting that he received the Ted Lindsay award in addition to his second Art Ross. Philip Tomasino undoubtedly deserved the Conn Smythe and Lady Byng trophies - the Red Wings would never have won the cup without him. The Calder trophy going to Anton Lundell was a testimony to his persistence. He had exceeded all expectations playing his defensive role like a veteran despite his young age of 22.
The Red Wings were highly decorated indeed. Ockey didn't want to spoil the occasion for others despite his own inability of enjoying the success. In all honesty it was a bit over the top with all the awards. But with the same honesty it wouldn't have been right to have it any other way. Jeff Blashill, if anyone, did deserve the Jack Adams award. If the Stanley Cup run wasn't enough then at least he should be rewarded for his dedication and all the hard work. Especially considering what he had to face at work every day. Or rather more specifically who he had to face.
Erik Brännström's second Norris trophy met with less criticism than his first. Point production of defensemen had been on a general decline for quite some time. And though Brännström had seen his fair share of controversy being pretty much all offense, he did lead the league in points scored by a defenseman once again. Finishing the long list of Red Wing trophies was Anthony Mantha with the Bill Masterton trophy. And indeed it was the effort he put into his game that was even more impressive than his scoring ability.
...
Of the other major trophies Igor Shestyorkin of the Rangers deservedly won the Vezina while the Hart Trophy went to Vladimir Tarasenko of the Blues. And even though the star forwards of the Red Wings and the Oilers had been dominant, none stood out as a team MVP quite like Tarasenko who had been pretty much the entire offense of the St.Louis Blues that season.
-
TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
Towards the Season 2024-2025: Sixth Season.
Of Leaves and Coyotes
The UFA market in the summer of 2024 was exceptionally busy. There could have been all kinds of opportunities to be had. 'Could have' was indeed the theme for Harrison Ockey. Just like with the entry draft, Ockey was late with the free agent market. Having focused his efforts on securing his own future with the Red Wings, his preparation for the task at hand had suffered as a result.
Defenseman T.J.Brodie had left and try as he might, Ockey could not find a real replacement. Some other team always seemed to snatch the good candidates. And even though there were plenty of big name players on the market, there was only one top end center - Auston Matthews. And as the autumn drew closer, mr.Ockey would curse his luck despite not believing in luck to begin with.
At the time everyone knew Matthews was going to sign with the Arizona Coyotes. It had been an open secret for years. Commentators said it was a done deal and only some minor details had delayed the signing. What a difference Matthews could have made for the Wings.
Ockey found it curious how all his rival teams seemed to be able to hold on to their key centermen. All but the Maple Leafs. For Matthews it seemed Toronto was never going to be an option - not after Babcock had retired. With Arizona though, he was certain to have the respect he deserved.
None were more shocked than Harrison Ockey when it turned out that Matthews had signed with the Minnesota Wild instead. What really made his day was when he found out that Matthews' cap hit was not thirteen million but ten and a half - and with maximum term. On that crisp late summer morning mr.Ockey kicked himself. And he did not do so in a figurative way. Suddenly he realized Matthews had been open for offers all along. Ockey had been an idiot.
One for the price of five
By the time the Matthews deal was announced many weeks had already passed since Ockey had made his own move. Four long years he had been looking for that elusive center. On one hand Ockey couldn't blame any of the young players who had stepped up and helped the team all the way to the Stanley Cup. But on the other hand he knew the Wings had been lucky. It was one of those things that would always nag Ockey. He knew their playoff series could have ended in the first round - and it very nearly did.
With the UFA market apparently devoid of top centers, Ockey chose a more creative approach. He had not forgotten the lessons of late. He knew he was facing an impossible job so he decided to take on a different job entirely. Five jobs actually if one was counting. Ockey needed a strong center. He needed forward depth. He also needed more defense, some veteran experience and some playmaking ability. For a moment he felt like a genius when he came up with his plan of getting those five pieces for the price of one. However, that's not quite how things would turn out.
Ockey's solution was to sign RW Elias Lindholm, 29, for seven years at 9.9 million per. He was well aware that was one steep cap hit. But Lindholm was a sought-after player. And at the time the deal made sense to Ockey. Lindholm could play a two-way game. He could make plays. He could kill penalties - and he could play center. And most importantly, he was a proven top six forward and there weren't many of those around despite the busy market. And not every player would negotiate with Ockey despite the Wings being the reigning champion.
Of Leaves and Coyotes
The UFA market in the summer of 2024 was exceptionally busy. There could have been all kinds of opportunities to be had. 'Could have' was indeed the theme for Harrison Ockey. Just like with the entry draft, Ockey was late with the free agent market. Having focused his efforts on securing his own future with the Red Wings, his preparation for the task at hand had suffered as a result.
Defenseman T.J.Brodie had left and try as he might, Ockey could not find a real replacement. Some other team always seemed to snatch the good candidates. And even though there were plenty of big name players on the market, there was only one top end center - Auston Matthews. And as the autumn drew closer, mr.Ockey would curse his luck despite not believing in luck to begin with.
At the time everyone knew Matthews was going to sign with the Arizona Coyotes. It had been an open secret for years. Commentators said it was a done deal and only some minor details had delayed the signing. What a difference Matthews could have made for the Wings.
Ockey found it curious how all his rival teams seemed to be able to hold on to their key centermen. All but the Maple Leafs. For Matthews it seemed Toronto was never going to be an option - not after Babcock had retired. With Arizona though, he was certain to have the respect he deserved.
None were more shocked than Harrison Ockey when it turned out that Matthews had signed with the Minnesota Wild instead. What really made his day was when he found out that Matthews' cap hit was not thirteen million but ten and a half - and with maximum term. On that crisp late summer morning mr.Ockey kicked himself. And he did not do so in a figurative way. Suddenly he realized Matthews had been open for offers all along. Ockey had been an idiot.
One for the price of five
By the time the Matthews deal was announced many weeks had already passed since Ockey had made his own move. Four long years he had been looking for that elusive center. On one hand Ockey couldn't blame any of the young players who had stepped up and helped the team all the way to the Stanley Cup. But on the other hand he knew the Wings had been lucky. It was one of those things that would always nag Ockey. He knew their playoff series could have ended in the first round - and it very nearly did.
With the UFA market apparently devoid of top centers, Ockey chose a more creative approach. He had not forgotten the lessons of late. He knew he was facing an impossible job so he decided to take on a different job entirely. Five jobs actually if one was counting. Ockey needed a strong center. He needed forward depth. He also needed more defense, some veteran experience and some playmaking ability. For a moment he felt like a genius when he came up with his plan of getting those five pieces for the price of one. However, that's not quite how things would turn out.
Ockey's solution was to sign RW Elias Lindholm, 29, for seven years at 9.9 million per. He was well aware that was one steep cap hit. But Lindholm was a sought-after player. And at the time the deal made sense to Ockey. Lindholm could play a two-way game. He could make plays. He could kill penalties - and he could play center. And most importantly, he was a proven top six forward and there weren't many of those around despite the busy market. And not every player would negotiate with Ockey despite the Wings being the reigning champion.
Last edited by TurboJ on Wed Apr 01, 2020 1:28 pm, edited 2 times in total.
-
TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
Season 2024-2025: Sixth Season, Part 1.
There's Room Enough
Naturally Ockey had to make changes to open up cap space for the Lindholm deal. T.J Brodie's cap hit was off the books now so after having traded Niederreiter on the draft day, relatively small moves could solve the problem. But for many, cap space was not the real problem. Ockey's big signing did not have the full support of the board. He'd wagered far too much on a single bet, they said. And they weren't entirely wrong.
Andrew Shaw went to Winnipeg for a 4th rounder. Joseph Veleno found a new home in Vancouver in return for a 3rd. Both had at one time been important pieces bringing some of the much needed depth to the Wings' roster. But when the playoffs were on, both had been healthy scratches for most of the time. Ockey knew not the reason, but those two had just taken a deep nose dive in the last season. Some things you just can't explain. And Ockey being the control freak that he was never did get along with that fact.
Although Ockey would never stop complaining about how the NHL had not increased the cap limit since 2019, he had been successful in squeezing under 81.5 million again. Future would spell big trouble though. Ockey could not see why they had frozen the limit like that. Clearly the league was making more money than they could spend. Something about evening out the odds - that's what some had said. And maybe they had a point.
Meanwhile, the rumors had been circling around ever since the '24 finals - rumors regarding the future of Alexander Ovechkin. After winning the second Stanley Cup of his career, many expected Ovechkin to call it a day. He had not discussed the subject publicly and he alone knew about his plans. There was speculation whether he even had a clear plan. Whatever the case, the Alex Ovechkin story was not yet finished. He would return for one more year and fulfill the term of his contract with the Wings. There was a strong sense of fulfilled promises about the whole thing. Ockey had given Ovechkin a guarantee of a top line role for the entirety of his contract. And he had kept his word. While other players had been switched around as needed, every single game #8 had played for the Wings had been on the first line - and on the first power play. It is not known whether Ovechkin felt some responsibility towards the Wings in making his decision. Most would always assume it was his love for the game that eventually tipped the scales.
Ranking the Camp
Detroit was ranked at #17 - the New York Rangers were again #1. Clearly the analysts didn't believe the Wings had any chance of repeating their last season success. Erik Brännström was still ranked #1 defenseman though. And two Red Wing forwards were mentioned within the top ten. Philip Tomasino appeared #10 on the list of right wingers. And Erik Larsson (Ockey's 2021 1st round pick) was ranked as the #1 NHL prospect.
September 2025
Harrison Ockey didn't look at the '24-'25 season with the same eyes as did some of the more optimistic fans. Surprisingly such a breed of fans had indeed appeared following the Red Wings winning the Stanley Cup. Ockey knew very well his defensive core wasn't what it used to be. And the most pressing issue was that six of his forwards had expiring contracts. And with Veleno gone Ockey was again one center short.
Arturs Irbe appeared in Ockey's office one day. "Yaroslav is ready. There is little else I can teach him." he said. "Keep an eye on that shoulder and all will be well." Ockey was far from sure about Askarov's health. But he could not deny that Irbe had done an excellent job training him. He thought Irbe's services could still have been very useful. But Ockey could understand there was a time for everyone to call it a career. And Irbe was perhaps smart to take his leave when things were still looking bright.
Right before the training camp Ockey made one of 'those' signings again. The kind that nobody else would understand. He brought in Owen Blocker to play center on the 4th line. Owen...who? That was the question. The 24-year-old Canadian was one of those undrafted players Ockey seemed to have a habit for signing. An aggressive power forward who was not half bad at faceoffs - that part made sense. But Blocker had had an average of about 9 points per season both in the WHL and in the AHL. Apparently his skating was the reason. To the board chairman Ockey even gave a comment. "The kid is strong as a bull, he hits like a train and and he has no fear." The chairman was not convinced.
Bizarrely the training camp was riddled by the same problems as last year. Complacency. Lack of fitness. Low morale. "So they didn't learn from last year after all" was Ockey's thought. And following the last year's script, the Red Wings would not play one single exhibition game that autumn either. "That'll teach them" said Ockey to himself.
There's Room Enough
Naturally Ockey had to make changes to open up cap space for the Lindholm deal. T.J Brodie's cap hit was off the books now so after having traded Niederreiter on the draft day, relatively small moves could solve the problem. But for many, cap space was not the real problem. Ockey's big signing did not have the full support of the board. He'd wagered far too much on a single bet, they said. And they weren't entirely wrong.
Andrew Shaw went to Winnipeg for a 4th rounder. Joseph Veleno found a new home in Vancouver in return for a 3rd. Both had at one time been important pieces bringing some of the much needed depth to the Wings' roster. But when the playoffs were on, both had been healthy scratches for most of the time. Ockey knew not the reason, but those two had just taken a deep nose dive in the last season. Some things you just can't explain. And Ockey being the control freak that he was never did get along with that fact.
Although Ockey would never stop complaining about how the NHL had not increased the cap limit since 2019, he had been successful in squeezing under 81.5 million again. Future would spell big trouble though. Ockey could not see why they had frozen the limit like that. Clearly the league was making more money than they could spend. Something about evening out the odds - that's what some had said. And maybe they had a point.
Meanwhile, the rumors had been circling around ever since the '24 finals - rumors regarding the future of Alexander Ovechkin. After winning the second Stanley Cup of his career, many expected Ovechkin to call it a day. He had not discussed the subject publicly and he alone knew about his plans. There was speculation whether he even had a clear plan. Whatever the case, the Alex Ovechkin story was not yet finished. He would return for one more year and fulfill the term of his contract with the Wings. There was a strong sense of fulfilled promises about the whole thing. Ockey had given Ovechkin a guarantee of a top line role for the entirety of his contract. And he had kept his word. While other players had been switched around as needed, every single game #8 had played for the Wings had been on the first line - and on the first power play. It is not known whether Ovechkin felt some responsibility towards the Wings in making his decision. Most would always assume it was his love for the game that eventually tipped the scales.
Ranking the Camp
Detroit was ranked at #17 - the New York Rangers were again #1. Clearly the analysts didn't believe the Wings had any chance of repeating their last season success. Erik Brännström was still ranked #1 defenseman though. And two Red Wing forwards were mentioned within the top ten. Philip Tomasino appeared #10 on the list of right wingers. And Erik Larsson (Ockey's 2021 1st round pick) was ranked as the #1 NHL prospect.
September 2025
Harrison Ockey didn't look at the '24-'25 season with the same eyes as did some of the more optimistic fans. Surprisingly such a breed of fans had indeed appeared following the Red Wings winning the Stanley Cup. Ockey knew very well his defensive core wasn't what it used to be. And the most pressing issue was that six of his forwards had expiring contracts. And with Veleno gone Ockey was again one center short.
Arturs Irbe appeared in Ockey's office one day. "Yaroslav is ready. There is little else I can teach him." he said. "Keep an eye on that shoulder and all will be well." Ockey was far from sure about Askarov's health. But he could not deny that Irbe had done an excellent job training him. He thought Irbe's services could still have been very useful. But Ockey could understand there was a time for everyone to call it a career. And Irbe was perhaps smart to take his leave when things were still looking bright.
Right before the training camp Ockey made one of 'those' signings again. The kind that nobody else would understand. He brought in Owen Blocker to play center on the 4th line. Owen...who? That was the question. The 24-year-old Canadian was one of those undrafted players Ockey seemed to have a habit for signing. An aggressive power forward who was not half bad at faceoffs - that part made sense. But Blocker had had an average of about 9 points per season both in the WHL and in the AHL. Apparently his skating was the reason. To the board chairman Ockey even gave a comment. "The kid is strong as a bull, he hits like a train and and he has no fear." The chairman was not convinced.
Bizarrely the training camp was riddled by the same problems as last year. Complacency. Lack of fitness. Low morale. "So they didn't learn from last year after all" was Ockey's thought. And following the last year's script, the Red Wings would not play one single exhibition game that autumn either. "That'll teach them" said Ockey to himself.
Last edited by TurboJ on Wed Apr 01, 2020 4:19 pm, edited 7 times in total.
-
TurboJ
- Drafted
- Posts: 194
- Joined: Mon Jan 14, 2019 12:08 pm
- Favourite Team: TPS
Wings have fallen. Harrison Ockey to the rescue!
Season 2024-2025: Sixth Season, Part 2.
Starting Lineup for 2024-2025
Ovechkin - Larkin - Larsson
Lundell - Lindholm - Tomasino
Bertuzzi - Hayton - Mantha
Gutik - Blocker - Athanasiou
Brännström - Vatanen
DeKeyser - Nemeth
Hronek - Bodák
1.Askarov 2.Gauthier
Notes on new players for '24-'25
Elias Lindholm (RW): Had been really good for the Flames. For the Wings he was expected to add skill and dependability along with a strong 200-foot game. The big question was if he could be the top center that was so desperately needed. After all, Lindholm's preferred position was on the right wing and not in the center. Adding to the gamble was his cap hit - almost everyone thought he was far too expensive.
Erik Larsson (RW): When Ockey drafted him it looked like a huge waste of a 3rd overall pick. Limited skill and even more limited experience, they said. And they were right. After three long seasons in the AHL Ockey decided to give him a shot at NHL. Larsson had finally developed his skating and technical skills to an acceptable level. Playing him with Larkin and Ovechkin should reveal if the young Swedish playmaker would ever make it.
Owen Blocker (C): Despite focusing heavily on speed and offensive skill, Ockey did always try to have some grit on the roster. And grit was what Owen Blocker had. Many argued that he wasn't really an NHL talent. A dark horse he might have been but Ockey had a plan for him nevertheless.
Martin Bodák (D): The Slovakian offensive defenseman had been dominant in Europe. But there was more than a little uncertainty whether he could ever translate that into NHL success. He had skill aplenty but he was not a quick skater. And the critics weren't wrong in pointing out that he might not fit the Red Wing system very well.
Starting Lineup for 2024-2025
Ovechkin - Larkin - Larsson
Lundell - Lindholm - Tomasino
Bertuzzi - Hayton - Mantha
Gutik - Blocker - Athanasiou
Brännström - Vatanen
DeKeyser - Nemeth
Hronek - Bodák
1.Askarov 2.Gauthier
Notes on new players for '24-'25
Elias Lindholm (RW): Had been really good for the Flames. For the Wings he was expected to add skill and dependability along with a strong 200-foot game. The big question was if he could be the top center that was so desperately needed. After all, Lindholm's preferred position was on the right wing and not in the center. Adding to the gamble was his cap hit - almost everyone thought he was far too expensive.
Erik Larsson (RW): When Ockey drafted him it looked like a huge waste of a 3rd overall pick. Limited skill and even more limited experience, they said. And they were right. After three long seasons in the AHL Ockey decided to give him a shot at NHL. Larsson had finally developed his skating and technical skills to an acceptable level. Playing him with Larkin and Ovechkin should reveal if the young Swedish playmaker would ever make it.
Owen Blocker (C): Despite focusing heavily on speed and offensive skill, Ockey did always try to have some grit on the roster. And grit was what Owen Blocker had. Many argued that he wasn't really an NHL talent. A dark horse he might have been but Ockey had a plan for him nevertheless.
Martin Bodák (D): The Slovakian offensive defenseman had been dominant in Europe. But there was more than a little uncertainty whether he could ever translate that into NHL success. He had skill aplenty but he was not a quick skater. And the critics weren't wrong in pointing out that he might not fit the Red Wing system very well.