Jay-Bo and the All Stars
I’m not normally overly interested in the All Star weekend and game; simply because when you extract the competitiveness from Hockey – it’s just not Hockey is it? Yet, I must admit the event lived up to its billing this year; with nice tricks, camaraderie and even some thrills in the All Star game itself.
The two first periods followed well accustomed patterns of high scoring bonanza – a goaltenders worst nightmare. But in the third period the goalies were Roberto Luongo and Tim Thomas; two great competitors who didn’t want to let in just any goal. Especially Tim Thomas put on his own show of acrobatic, yoga fuelled saves to delight the crowds. And as the netminders stepped up their game – so did the players.
Toward the end the players’ competitiveness started to show through and as the clock counted down – it became clear – no one wanted to lose this game. Especially not the goaltenders. And it was a patented Jay Bouwmeester step-up that tied the game at 11 and brought on overtime. Bo got three points in the game, and while defenders don’t really get the opportunity to shine in this event, he did just that.
In the ensuing overtime there was even a penalty called – the first one since year 2000 and the tempo picked up another notch. In the shootout it was Thomas that won the contest for the East All Stars and perhaps should have been given the MVP –award for his game winning display, but to the cheers of the Montreal crowd it was home favorite Kovalev that picked up the accolade. A good choice as well, considering he got a couple of goals and looked dangerous on numerous occasions – and scored a beautiful penalty shot.
For Bouwmeester the game was all smiles and he really looked like he was enjoying himself, perhaps more so even than last time around. He generally looks more confident in his ability now; as was evident when he scored the late equalizer in the contest – an assured wrister inside to the top netting. A fine way to cap his weekend before returning here to South Florida for a couple of tough and important games; against Philadelphia and Montreal on Tuesday and Thursday respectively.
Another great experience for Bouwmeester and a good way for him to showcase his considerable talent. Although as a Panther fan you do hope Jay can settle back here in Florida, so we can sign him to another contract soon. While many seem to have given up hope on retaining his services beyond the trade deadline, I refuse to surrender my hopes.
There are some positive signs; he speaks highly of his coach Pete DeBoer, seems to have more belief in the team being able to compete and overall a more optimistic outlook from Bo – when it comes to Florida Panthers Hockey. From this to a new contract being signed there are miles to go, but, at least all is not doom and gloom and let’s not give up on Jay-Bo quite yet.
Heh, I guess we still have that deep hope that Bo will change his mind and stay in Florida. I guess everything is possible!!
I, on the other hand, do enjoy the All Star games. I like seeing the players getting recignition for their talent and hard work, and also having fun! And last night was no different – this gives the NHL players to show us another side of their personality we perhaps don’t get to see to often …
What an exciting game last night’s All Star game! Competitive indeed and very fun to watch! Bo indeed looked like he was having fun, and so did Tim Thomas. The first and second period goalies didn’t look like they were having too much fun – and I don’t blame them! – but Thomas and Luongo both seemed to have enjoyed playing.
Now see kids, this should be a good lesson – DO YOGA!