Hockey for the Ladies

Ladies and Gentlemen, The Real Deal ...

2012-01-26T08:00:00.001-05:00

Jaaaaaaaamessssssssssssssss Neal!!

THANKS to my good friend, Debbie B., for bringing it to my attention that they've posted Nealy's goal call on PensTV (and we can enjoy it anytime we want!)!!

ENJOY, ladies!!

Western Conference Hottie REWIND: Patrik Berglund (St. Louis Blues)

2012-01-25T16:54:00.000-05:00

ORIGINAL POST-DATE:
March 4, 2009

OK ladies, you knew I couldn't stay away from the blond guys forever, so I'm sorry but your just going to have to indulge me. I was watching the horribleness that was the Stars v Blues the other day (well a tragedy for Stars fans, anyway) and he scored the 2nd of STL's 3 goals of the night. Being somewhat unfamiliar with the Blues, I got WAY more than I expected when the camera panned in on him. I could only muster a gape mouth stare.

IMPORTANT HOCKEY STUFF: A first round draft pick of the St. Louis Blues, in 2006, they liked him enough to keep him and it looks like it might be paying off. He's 2nd in points on the Blues. And yes, before you say it I know it's the blues. But you know, they started out pretty well this season, and are suffering the loss of their Captain (not unlike a certain team I have a personal soft spot for.) Actually he's the chief producer of points, right after Brad Boyes who has played 7 more games than he has. So who's gonna gripe. Plus he's keeping awfully good company. He's posted a plus-or-even game in 48 of the 56 games he has played in. Has points in 27 of his 56 games and notched 10 multi-point games this season, 9 two-point games and 1-three- point game. (and remember, this is his first year in the NHL!) He's also responsible for notching the Blues' 10,000th franchise goal on Nov. 1, 2008 vs. Pittsburgh. (On second thought should I really mention that fact on a predominately Penguins blog.) [laughs,] (remember, the pens won so you can't lynch me,) [more laughs].
REALLY IMPORTANT STUFF: Since I already gave it away in the very first sentence of this post, he's my usual "type" of 6'4" 189 lbs. of blond, blue eyed Swede. [yes, Stephanie had to ask me several times what my name was after the sight of him nearly made me faint] [she still doesn't answer to her name]!! Quite honestly, I can't find out much of anything about him other than what he looks like. If you're liked the pictures, you'll probably want to take a VERY close look (and listen if you have the same weakness for Swedish accents that I do) to these 2 videos. (1.) He's the 2nd interview in this VIDEO. (2.) He's also the 2nd interview in this VIDEO. You can fast forward to about 2:28 unless David Perron is your type of thing. He's not really mine, but he doesn't bark, either. Since I can't read Swedish, this area is rather thin on details. However, in my travels on the internet, I did come up with one pretty good quote. "And when I started this year, I was not good at all. But I have to credit our coaches -- all four of them -- for really helping me get better in that area of the game. They got me into the right position on the ice, got me to get my stick down and be facing the way of the puck, toward it. I wanted to work on it, but they really deserve the credit. But I'd be enjoying this a lot more if we were winning more games." Sounds like a promising personality to me.

But for the most part (since this HftL, after all) my goodness, set back and take a look at all the pretty!!! MEOW!!!! [I definitely have to second the Me-OW!!! You guys all know my type is far from blond, but Berglund is a real hottie who just couldn't be ignored -- good choice, Kena!]!!

[VIDEO] TOO CUTE - Kevin Bieksa with Canucks Kids

2012-01-25T08:49:00.000-05:00

I found this on Bob's Blitz blog (who obtained it from the Sami Salo tumblr). Kevin Bieksa is one of my FAV hotties (hottie + kids = panty-melting)!!

This is from the annual Canucks Super Skills competition that was held this past Sunday, January 22, 2012. The adorable kids are, left to right: Makayla Kesler (daddy=Ryan Kesler), Reese Bieksa (daddy=Kevin Bieksa), Anna Hamhuis (daddy=Dan Hamhuis), Oliver and Peppi Salo (daddy=Sami Salo).

The Daddys (if you're not a Canucks fan / familiar with the players):

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT for James Neal

2012-01-24T15:54:00.000-05:00

with a "Team Neal" graphic!!

They chose to include Hartnell over Neal for the All-Stars?? THAT'S RIDICULOUS!!! Neal has moved on and considers it "old news," but that doesn't mean we can't show our support!!! For those of you who haven't read, when asked about Hartnell making the All-Stars team, Neal said (from Josh Yohe's twitter, @JoshYohe_Trib):
"That's old news. I'm not worrying about the all star game at all."
THAT'S OUR NEALY (and one of the many reasons he deserves to be included in this year's All-Star team!)!!

Eastern Conference Eye Candy REWIND: Derek Roy (Buffalo Sabres)

2012-01-23T13:48:00.000-05:00

THIS WEEK'S ECEC "REWIND" IS BUFFALO'S DEREK ROY
(original post date - March 30, 2009)

This week's EC eye candy is part of the Buffalo Sabres. He's not only a hottie, but also an outstanding hockey player. Many would assume that he's related to current player Andre Roy and / or Hall-of-Famer Patrick Roy, but is not. To learn more about him, read on!!

HOCKEY FACTOR:

born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
plays center, shoots left
played with the OHL Kitchener Rangers
named to the 2000 OHL All-Rookie Team as well as the OHL Rookie of the Year
named to CHL All-Rookie Team in 2000
received CHL Awards (2000): Plus/Minus and Most Sportsmanlike Player
part of the Memorial Cup Tournament All-Star Team in 2003
won the Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy in 2003 (Memorial Cup Tournament - MVP)
was Buffalo's second-round draft pick in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft (AND was 32nd overall)
spent first 2 years on Buffalo's AHL affiliate team, Rochester Americans (returned in 2004 during NHL lockout)
made his NHL debut in 2003
re-signed with the Sabres on July 27, 2007 to a reported $24 million / 6-year contract
won a silver medal in the World Ice Hockey Championships (in 2000 and 2008)
current season: led team in scoring, has 9 multi-point games - including three 3-point games, scored points in 27 / 41 games with 6 game-winning goals

HOTNESS FACTOR:
Roy is a blond-haired, blue-eyed Canadian. He's 5'9 and weighs 188 pounds, so he's pretty short for a hockey player. His nickname is "Royzie."

Family and friends motivate Roy and always keeps in mind that:

"There are a lot of kids out there that would love to play in the NHL so I can not take this opportunity for granted."

Although he thinks there's a lot of great players that are / have been a part of the NHL, he respects players like Steve Yzerman, Peter Forsberg and Eric Lindros.

According to SabreSFan.com, Roy has speed, good vision, and is "a budding playmaker with a bit of an attitude. Shifty, creative and determined enough to compensate for his lack of size."

After this was posted to HftL, I received a comment from sabreschic87 who wrote:

Derek Roy is my favorite Sabre. He is the nicest guy too...I have waited out behind the arena after practice for autographs and such and he always stops and signs things for everyone no matter how many people are there. And the pictures of him that are posted on here are nice...but you should see him in
person...it's even better than the pictures :)

THANKS for the "inside info" sabreschic87!!!

It's A Boy!!

2012-01-16T08:30:00.006-05:00

Former Penguins player (currently playing for the LA Kings), Rob Scuderi and his wife, Courtney, welcomed child number three (son number two) to the world on December 21st ... his name is Brett!

CONGRATULATIONS TO ROB, COURTNEY, and THE ENTIRE SCUDERI FAMILY!!

In Honor of Neal's BIG CAJONES - I'm Calling "Dr. Love" Again!!

2012-01-10T15:03:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you ladies, but I think I need a HOUSE CALL again today!!! ; D

CONFIDENCE IS SEXY (Neal's confidence is panty-melting!)!!!! In honor of the "big cajones" he showed today ... here's a song that always makes me think of him (for SOME reason!) ...

[Verse 1]
Just shoot for the stars

If it feels right

Then aim for my heart

If you feel like

And take me away, make it okay

I swear I'll behave

You wanted control

So we waited

I put on a show

Now I'm naked

You say I'm a kid

My ego is big

I don't give a shit

And it goes like this

[Chorus]

Take me by the tongue

And I'll know you

Kiss me till you're drunk

And I'll show you

All the moves like jagger

I've got the moves like jagger

I've got the mooooooves... like jagger

I don't need try to control you

Look into my eyes and I'll own you

With the moves like jagger

I've got the moves like jagger

I've got the mooooooves... like jagger

[Verse 2]

Maybe it's hard

When you feel like you're broken and scarred

Nothing feels right

But when you're with me

I make you believe

That I've got the keys

So get in the car

We can ride it

Wherever you want

Get inside it

And you want to steer

But I'm shifting gears

I'll take it from here

And it goes like this

[Chorus]

Take me by the tongue

And I'll know you

Kiss me till you're drunk

And I'll show you

All the moves like jagger

I've got the moves like jagger

I've got the mooooooves... like jagger

I don't need try to control you

Look into my eyes and I'll own you

With the moves like jagger

I've got the moves like jagger

I've got the mooooooves... like jagger

[Bridge]

You wanna know how to make me smile

Take control, own me just for the night

And if I share my secret

You're gonna have to keep it

Nobody else can see this

So watch and learn

I won't show you twice

Head to toe, ooh baby, roll me right

And if I share my secret

You're gonna have to keep it

Nobody else can see this

And it goes like this

[Chorus]

Take me by the tongue

And I'll know you

Kiss me till you're drunk

And I'll show you

All the moves like jagger

I've got the moves like jagger

I've got the mooooooves... like jagger

I don't need try to control you

Look into my eyes and I'll own you

With the moves like jagger

I've got the moves like jagger

I've got the mooooooves... like jagger

"Moves Like Jagger" - Maroon 5

I Just Fell IN LOVE With James Neal ALL OVER AGAIN!!

2012-01-10T12:26:00.002-05:00

SMILING on an injured foot - THAT'S MY MAN!!!
courtesy: PittsburghPenguins.com

Ladies and gentleman ... THIS IS THE VISION OF A MAN ... NO, A GOD!!! Remember Gary Roberts (and "WWGRD?")?? Well, it would appear that James is taking his place in the NHL!!

James smirks at his foot and it goes from "broken" to bruised ...

WHAT broken foot??!!!!!!!!!!!!

“I want to play and help the team,” he said. “If it can’t get any worse, then there’s no reason why I can’t play. It feels good in my skate and I’ll be ready to go tonight. Hopefully we can get over this little slump we’re in.”

He admitted that it is harder to walk than it is to skate, but no part of his game will be impeded by the injury and that getting to practice this morning helped.

“I’ll be the same way I was every other game,” he said. “It was a couple quick strides this morning to get used to it. I’ll be all right.”

I'm just hoping that it WILL be OK and he's not putting the team before his health!! I'm sorry, but the Cup (and winning) is not worth risking that!!!

Mr. January: Brooks Orpik (Rockin' that Hair!!)

2012-01-04T12:58:00.000-05:00

Am I the only one who thinks this picture is amusing?? DON'T GET ME WRONG, I LOVE me some Brooks Orpik (especially his toughness and leadership on the ice), but this just seems to be so unlike the player we've come to "know" (you know, the guy on the ice).

It also seems to me that he's been becoming "soft around the edges" over the past few years (like the woman in his life is good for / to him) which is really a great thing ... every tough man needs that good woman behind him to keep him in touch with that soft side and balance him out (one of the many sexy things about men in general)!

This picture is (I'm assuming) from the day they took video of the guys for their pre-game, gametime, etc., shots and this one doesn't come close to amusing me as much as the video of him does because ... IDK ... I usually lean over to my husband to add the following commentary (like I'm Brooks speaking during the shoot) because it's always what comes to mind and makes me laugh everytime:

"I'm Brooks Orpik and I friggin' rock this hair. See the curls, I like them - that's right! Don't laugh or I'll kick your ass ... I'm friggin' BROOKS ORPIK!!"

Now, when you attend the next game, please feel free to use that statement or have it come to mind while you watch Brooks during the pre-game video!! ENJOY!

Western Conference Hottie REWIND: Niklas Lidstrom (Detroit Red Wings)

2012-01-04T09:20:00.001-05:00

[Delicious UPDATE thanks to loyal HftL follower, Deanna!!]
I really don't think I have to preface this with much, but Deanna posted a link in the "comments" which revealed the most BEAUTIFUL pics of Lidstrom from the Swedish magazine, Café. CLICK HERE to read the article courtesy of "Google Translate." Um ... thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, Deanna!!! ; )

YOWZA, mommy!!
(wait ... I can't see ...)
LOL!!

I'm guessing that alot of you are missing HftL's regularly scheduled posts as much as I am (aside from the fact that we get new readers / followers on a regular basis who may have missed some of our delectable offerings that have already been "covered"), so I decided that something is better than NOTHING and that I will "REWIND" to those irresistible players that have already been featured here on the blog (when it's a little "slower" around here). I hope none of you ladies have any objections, but I really doubt that you will - who doesn't want to re-explore "conquered" territory?!!

; )

THE FIRST "REWIND" IS DETROIT'S NIKLAS LIDSTROM(original post date - October 29, 2008; written by Kena L. with a few comments of my own thrown in)

Before submitting myself to all of your conjectures, let me reiterate that I am not a Red Wings fan. That being said, I can't help but notice hot guys where ever I find them and now that I've admitted to that, lets get on to the good stuff, shall we? Great.

Here we have Niklas Lidstrom. I think he's the first defenseman we've scrutinized in this series (of articles) so far. Which is kind of strange, considering the fact that one of my favorite things about hockey is watching good defense. Oh well, onward...

IMPORTANT HOCKEY STUFF: It's hard to prove your mettle as a defenseman with numbers, but Nicklas Lidstrom has won pretty much every single honor of distinction available to someone who's specialty is defense. Starting with those 5 (I might be one off in either direction) Norris Trophies, Olympic Gold Medal, several World Championships, etc. He's the only European to ever win the Conn Smythe Trophy. He has 10 appearances in the All-Star game. His coach says that “he's the most professional person (in fact, he's so professional he rarely gets any penalty minutes which is unusual for a player who has caught my eye), I've ever seen,” and “he just doesn't make any mistakes.” When I get to watch, I always see him setting down there, just waiting like a cat to pounce on some unsuspecting forward. Yes, he's that good.

THE REALLY IMPORTANT STUFF: 6'1” 198lbs. Dark blond hair (which he thankfully keeps fairly short), with one of the most dangerous looking blue-eyed stares I think I've ever seen. [This video demonstrates it well - it starts at about 6 sec. in] I mean, the intensity of his stare is highly disconcerting. Kinda makes you want squirm, (and not just in a good way, either). In fact, he actually does make me squirm. I have every confidence that if he were in law enforcement, he could simply stare at criminals and they would confess every traffic ticket they ever received. It's no wonder everyone finds it hard to score on him. I'd really like to try, though (and I don't just mean hockey with that statement either). In other bonuses, he's got 4 beautiful boys (all of which are blond), so I get to be jealous of that too.

I can't imagine what it would be like challenging him on the blue line. Enough can not be said about his leadership capabilities. He leads by example. Nothing ever flusters him (although, again I'd like to try, [sly grin]).

[there's really no denying that Lidstrom is sexy - an attractive older man - distinguished (look at the bottom pictures). Kena will laugh at me for this!]

Crosby and Neal Pictures of the Week: Let's Ring in the New Year Edition ...

2012-01-03T15:01:00.000-05:00

I am tired of being mopey (about hockey and life IN GENERAL), so I thought some pics of my hockey men would help and I figured they wouldn't hurt you ladies either - YOU'RE WELCOME - lol ; P

BTW, if I haven't said it lately (which is likely since I've been "hiding" for the past few weeks) ... I MISS SID and I'd be lying if I didn't add that I'm starting to get a little concerned ...

ENOUGH OF THAT, Stephanie (or I won't be working on one of my MANY new year's resolutions!!!! Do you ladies have any that you'd like to share??? PLEASE FEEL FREE TO POST COMMENTS (you'd be doing be a favor -- I need to take part in some conversation with my ladies - hockey or OTHERWISE!)!!

NOW ... on to the GOOD STUFF (most of them are of my Nealy [THANKS to my good buddy, Debbie!] because, as you are all too aware, Sid is in hiding : ( ) OOPS - there I go again, so I must GET TO THE PICS!!!!

 ENJOY, Ladies!!!

That SMILE, ugh - just HIM (he's PERFECT!)!!
[swoon!]

THANK YOU, Debbie!! I LOVE this one (and I REALLY MISS the fu!)(Debbie doesn't take credit for creating this masterpiece, so if you recognize it LMK and I'll post credit!)

TOO ADORABLE!!
(so WHY do I always focus on his hands???!!!) ...
AND who wouldn't want to have his babies???!!!!!!
Am I the only one who thinks how he wears his cap is sexy??!!!!
OMG - NEXT PICTURE, STEPHANIE!!!

oh, yeah ...
moving to the next picture helped LOTS!!!
This one ... this one I'm blowing up 'life-size,'
putting it up in my bedroom and
my husband WILL JUST HAVE TO DEAL
LOL ; P

Ladies and Gentlemen ... I Present to You "THE MOST POWERFUL MAN IN HOCKEY"

2011-12-23T10:18:00.002-05:00

YESSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!! This is turning out to be ONE GREAT HOLIDAY BREAK for me so far (and it's just started) ... the above is what I found waiting for me in my email inbox just a few minutes ago (see how nice I am to drag my ass up off the floor so I could share it with all of you?!)!!! ; )

That is a whole-lotta-sexy-goin-on right there ... don't even get me started on that "staring at me with those 'looking-at-a-face-off-puck' eyes!" [TAKE ME NOW!!] And THEN they had to make the title "THE MOST POWERFUL MAN IN HOCKEY."

Dear baby Jesus why do you do this to me?!!!

THANK YOU, THN, for finally acknowledging that (1) he IS a MAN and (2) he's the most powerful one in hockey (even if it is for a silly-little-poll!)!! The rest of us know what exactly that really means (and all the layers of the meaning!)!!

Well, I'm off to clean all the [*DROOL*] off my laptop!! ENJOY, LADIES and GENTS!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

In Light of Crosby Being Placed on IR ...

2011-12-20T08:00:00.002-05:00

NO PICS OF THE WEEK ... I'M IN MOURNING!!! :* (

But in his honor ...

Please Come Home for Christmas

BON JOVI

Bells will be ringing the glad, glad news

Oh what a Christmas to have the blues

My baby's gone (my baby's gone) I have no friends

To wish me greetings once again

Choirs will be singing Silent Night

Those Christmas carols by candlelight

Please come home for Christmas (please come home)

If not for Christmas by New Year's night

Friends and relations send salutations

Just as sure as the stars shine above (yes they do)

This is Christmas, Christmas my dear

The time of year to be with the one that you love

Then won't you tell me, you'll never more roam

Christmas and New Year (Christmas and New Year's)

Will find you at home

There'll be no more sorrow, no grief or pain

Cause I'll be happy (happy) that it's Christmas once again

(on a lighter note) ...

Bon Jovi is donating proceeds from their Christmas song,

"I Wish Every Day Could Be Like Christmas"

to the Special Olympics

MERRY CHRISTMAS, ladies!!
*****************

I'm hoping / wishing for something under my tree that alot of us probably are

but none of us may be able to have this year
(or with any consistency for any Christmas to follow)

EVEN THOUGH - I HOPE I'M WRONG!!
: (

GET WELL, SID ...

we miss you
(but your health should always come first ...
it's just not the same without you!!)

how eerily Sid's career echos that of his mentor ...

It's A Boy!!

2011-12-12T21:10:00.000-05:00

LOTS of babies these past few months (funny how the hockey world works in "cycles" - weddings in the summer (off-season) and babies in the winter (conceived around season's end!))!! This one is a few weeks old, but still baby news, nonetheless!!

Detroit's (former Dallas Stars') Fabian Brunnstrom and his wife Sandy welcomed their first child into the world on Friday, December 2 -- a baby boy they named Alexander Noah.

CONGRATULATIONS TO FABIAN AND SANDY!!

Eastern Conference Eye Candy: Brian Gionta (Montreal Canadiens)

2011-12-12T07:30:00.149-05:00

HOCKEY FACTOR:

Brian Gionta learned how to skate when his mother decided to teach all three of her boys one winter

Brian Gionta played hockey in high school for the Aquinas Institute then went on to play for Boston College (1997-2001) helping them win a National Championship in his senior season (while leading the nation in goal scoring with 33 goals).

Despite his modest size at 5' 7" and 173 pounds (he is the second to the shortest player in the NHL - former HftL's ECEC Nathan Gerbe beats him by a mere two inches at 5' 5"), he is often described as "tenacious" as a player which more than makes up for anything he "lacks" in size (they're BOTH taller than I am!). From the Montreal Canadiens webpage:

Short jokes? Gionta has heard them all over the years and the speedy winger isn’t about to let the haters get to him now.

“I’ve dealt with that my whole life,” shrugged the 5-foot-7 Gionta. “It’s really nothing new and nothing to worry about.”

That is unless you’re an opposing defenseman trying to catch him.

In the 1998 NHL Entry Draft, the New Jersey Devils drafted Gionta in the third round (82nd overall). He began playing for New Jersey in 2001-02 splitting his first season between the AHL and NHL roster and ultimately playing in the NHL from then on (and helped the Devils win a Stanley Cup in the 2002-03 season) until he signed a five-year / $25 million contract with the Montreal Canadiens in July 2009 and was later named Montreal's captain on September 29, 2010.

During his NHL career, Gionta earned his 200th goal (February 9, 2011), 400th point (April 2, 2011), earned his 200th assist (November 5, 2011), played in his 600th game (March 5, 2011), and was the only Canadien player to take part in all 82 games in the 2010-11 season; he recently earned his 100th point with the Canadiens also on November 5, 2011.

HOTNESS FACTOR:
Gionta is an American-born player who grew up in Greece (suburb of Rochester), NY with his mom (Penny), dad (Sam), younger brother (Stephen), and older brother (Joe). His dad owns a hardware store (where Brian still works in the off-season) while his mom worked as a dental hygienist. His parents still live in Rochester.

Both of Brian's brothers are / have been involved with hockey. Stephen played college hockey for Boston College before going on to sign an amateur tryout contract for the New Jersey Devils AHL affiliate in 2006 (and continues to play in the NJ system). His brother Joe only played in high school at the Aquina Institute graduating in 1994.

"Watching Brian do amazing things in the N.H.L. definitely inspired me and opened my eyes and the eyes of a lot of smaller players," Stephen Gionta said. "He showed us that it doesn't matter how small you are. The only thing that really matters is how big your heart is."

Brian's middle name is Joseph (as is his son's); is nicknamed "Gio" by his teammates and "the Rochester Rocket" by the media. He admits to eating chicken, pasta, and vanilla ice cream on game days.

Brian is married to wife, Harvest. The couple met in high school when he was a freshman and she was a senior (after having the nerve to ask her out on a date). They have two children; a son, Adam Joseph (pictured below), and a daughter, Leah.

Gionta's wife (Harvest), Brian, and son (Adam)
(not sure who the other people are)

Information found in this post obtained from the following sites:

Brian Gionta Wikipedia
Montreal Candadiens Player Page - Gionta
What is "G"?
Munchkin Is Big With the Devils

It's A Boy!!

2011-12-11T22:30:00.001-05:00

THANKS to Nichole H. for the info!

The Staals (Eric, Tanya, and Parker) welcomed the second boy into their family earlier today -- Levi John who weighed in at a whopping 9 pounds, 5 ounces (WOW!) -- definitely another hockey player!!

From the Carolina Hurricanes twitter:

Congrats to Tanya & capt Eric Staal (+big bro Parker) who welcomed Levi John Staal (9lb5oz!) today in Raleigh!

CONGRATULATIONS TO ERIC, TANYA, AND THE STAAL FAMILY!!

It's A Girl!!

2011-12-11T21:29:00.000-05:00

THANKS to Liz S.and Sara H., for "the tip" on this news!

On Friday (December 9th), Patrick Sharp's wife, Abby, gave birth to the couple's first child - a baby girl they named Madelyn Grace. She weighed 6 pounds, 2 ounces, and was 19 inches long. CLICK HERE to read the article from the Chicago Sun Times.

"When I saw the baby for the first time, it was an unbelievable feeling. You really can't describe it until you go through it yourself." - Patrick Sharp

CONGRATULATIONS TO PATRICK AND ABBY!!

Now You Can Watch Crosby's "Hat Tip" Anytime You Want!!

2011-12-08T12:02:00.000-05:00

Remember THIS? It's one of the sexiest things I've ever seen in my life - my REASON #80 to LOVE Sid (IDK why, but it just makes my knees weak and it has since the very first time I saw it!)!!!

Well, now I [or the rest of you ladies] can watch it (and RE-watch it) anytime I [we] like!

For those of you who don't know (and didn't pre-order it), HBO's 24 / 7 - Penguins/Capitals: Road to the NHL Winter Classic is now out and ready to ship!! If you still have to order yours, you can do so on the HBO internet store and KEEP IN MIND to look on the internet for promotional codes. I used one when I pre-ordered mine and it was enough to cover the cost of S&H which was a pretty good deal!!

I got it in the mail yesterday (and it was a nice surprise) ... I already opened it and watched the first three episodes (and, yes, the "hat tip!")!! The disappointing part is that there isn't anything additional on the disc (no extra footage, no deleted scenes - nothing), so for those of you who look forward to that kind of thing especially with this - you'll be just as disappointed as I was!

Although seeing the "hat tip" whenever I want more than makes up for all of that!! ; D

It's Gone (I Think) ... Wait, WHAT?!

2011-12-02T16:02:00.000-05:00

So I've been waiting for some pics or word that Sid shaved today and ... I THINK he did. I say that only because I have yet to see one of him facing the camera (its all side views). And the "WHAT?!" in the title is because of this picture (I saw that butt and lost track of everything else!)!!! ; D

I never knew that suit pants could cling to a man's ass so nicely, did you?!!

As for his mustache, well, YOU be the judge (I'd say it's still up in the air and we need "face front" picture confirmation - although he looks "clean" to me!!):

[UPDATE] It's A Girl!!

2011-12-02T09:15:00.002-05:00

[UPDATE]Ad'a from Slovakia sent along a second article about Višňovský's new baby girl (who's given name is Liliana Višňovská) and this one comes with a picture (SO ADORABLE!)!!

THANKS to Aďa from Slovakia for letting me know about this recent birth!!

This past Monday evening (November 28th), Ľubomír Višňovský (from the Anaheim Ducks) and his beautiful wife, Katarina, welcomed a baby girl to world. Her name is Lily Alex and she has a big brother, Luke Maxima who was born back in January 2009. If you recall, the proud parents were married back in September (READ ABOUT IT HERE!)

According to Ad'a (who was nice enough to loosely interpret the Slovakian article announcing the birth - THANKS again, Ad'a!), Lily's daddy was secretly hoping for his daughter to be born on November 29th in honor of his dear friend, Pavol Demitra (who's life was lost in the tragic plane crash a few months back). Honestly, in my own opinion, just the thought of his wanting to honor Pavol would seem good / close enough as if she was born on that day - how special!!

And from The Orange County Register:

Injured defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky and his wife, Katarina, welcomed a baby girl Monday night.

CONGRATULATIONS TO Ľubomír, Katarina, Luke, and the entire Višňovský family!!

Where My Ladies At?

2011-12-02T07:58:00.000-05:00

THESE ARE OUR STORIES

(How I Became a [Female] Hockey Fan)!

First of all, I must begin with announcing that I am a born and bred East Texan, but there's little I love more than my Pittsburgh Penguins.

Any die hard Steel City fan knows that we span across the globe. Hell, I saw a Steelers bar when I was in Rome! Needless to say, I am minority in Texas, but when it's hockey season, I bleed black and gold.

My obsession with Pens hockey began when I was still in the womb. I was born very shortly after the Pens won the Stanley Cup, but my mother began to feel contraction during the final game. Now, she should have gone to the hospital, especially when the contractions grew closer together, but she'd be damned if she missed one second of the final game. But when Mario lifted that Cup, my mother finally allowed my father to take her to the hospital, but alas, I was a tricky girl, even before I was born, and decided to stay for a few more days. Shortly after, a brand new Pens fan was born.

Growing up with four brothers only furthered my obsession with the team. I was always right next to them on the couch or in the stands, screaming my head off for someone to just shoot already, or pass goddammit! I could rattle off the entire roster and worshiped Mario. When Mario returned, I could see comparisons to the second coming of Christ. I am die hard, to say the least.

In this acquisition of Lord Stanley, I was watching the final game one day before my birthday. I prayed, I hoped and I wished with all my heart that the best birthday gift would be for the Pens to win the Stanley Cup. My prayers and wishes were answered and I woke up on the morning of my eighteenth birthday all smiles because my favorite hockey team had lifted the Stanley Cup high above their heads the night before.

So no matter rain or shine, win or lose, I love my Pittsburgh Penguins. I wear my Staal and Letang jerseys around my small East Texas town and I wear them with pride despite the funny looks I get.

I am, without a doubt, a die hard, female Penguins fan.

LETS GO PENS!
-Victoria

You go, Victoria! I am also proud of being a fan just as I'm sure every Pens fan is - male or female; but I'm always SO PROUD to see fans from outside of Pennsylvania representing our boys as well! The Penguins are slowly becoming like the Steelers in the fact that no matter where they play, there are Penguins fans in the seats and that is DEFINITELY SOMETHING TO BE PROUD OF!!! So keep wearing your Staal and Letang jerseys (your boys are doing well this season!), screaming in the stands, and rattling off Pittsburgh rosters because you're representing Pittsburgh and we gladly accept you as one of us ... THANKS for sharing your story, Victoria!!

Don't forget, if you wish to submit your story, I kindly ask that you email them directly to me so they don't end up being repetitive for some of the readers. Also, if you don't want me to include your name, please let me know that as well (what I'll normally do is put your first name and last initial if I have it OR just your screen name).

FEEL FREE TO INCLUDE A PICTURE!!

I also want to let you know I LOVE these stories (and so do alot of our readers) - I've always found it interesting no matter who the fan, so I'm enjoying ALL OF THIS IMMENSELY!! KEEP THEM COMING, but I ask that you email them please - THANKS!!!

Also, I ask that you please BE PATIENT as I'm still receiving TONS of stories (they'll be posted in the order I received them, to be fair). If you sent in a story, it will eventually be on the blog - I promise!! ; ) JUST BE SURE TO KEEP THEM COMING (the more the better!)!! AS A NOTE, I'm currently on stories I received back in March 2010!!!

thesteelcitysportsfan@gmail.com

If you haven't, you can READ MY STORY HERE
(how "yours truly" became a [female] hockey fan!)!!

Sid, WHY So Superstitious?! Just SHAVE!

2011-12-01T17:02:00.009-05:00

I genuinely understand hockey players and their superstitions along with how crazy they can be about them. I'm like that to an extent as a fan and I'm sure most hockey fans are. HECK - I just dusted off my Sid jersey to wear to the game he returned (since the last time I wore it about 10 months before)!

But, Sid, that mustache (I don't care how much "better" it's come in since "the last time!") ... IT HAS TO GO ... I actually never thought there would be anything that would make you less sexy / appealing, but I FOUND IT ... that thin, little tuft of hair above your upper lip ... it makes you look like you haven't showered for a few weeks and as much as the THOUGHT of your sweat seems like a good idea to me, the visual aid of the mustache gives me the creeps ... like you're 14 and SO PROUD you can grow facial hair for the first time.

NO, Sid, you don't look adorable there ...
and I refuse to let that mustache "grow" on me
(get your heads out of the gutter, ladies!)!!

I was ok with it for the time-being (for a good cause and all), but I'm SO TIRED of seeing it on your beautiful face ... like a half-dead, raggedy, old field mouse got trapped there.

PLEASE, FOR THE LOVE OF EVERYTHING HOLY IN HOCKEY, SHAVE THAT DAMN MUSTACHE (I sincerely cannot stand looking at you with it for another solitary moment and I highly doubt I'm alone in my opinion!)!!! : ( (but for some reason, that screen-cap I got of you doesn't look half-bad ... see what I've resorted to? A dirty lady in love with a hockey player who has taken on the appearance of a 14-year-old who hasn't taken a shower in a few weeks!)!! UGH!!!

ALTHOUGH, I must admit that your banter with Potash about it today was pretty amusing (you little devil, YOU - lol - you can still make me smile EVEN WITH THAT DAMN MUSTACHE!)!!! ; D

From the Penguins webpage:

As today marks the first day of December, all of the Pens came to the rink this morning with clean upper lips after shaving off the mustaches they grew for November in honor of "Movember." ... All of the Pens, that is, except for captain Sidney Crosby – who's currently on a three-game point streak. We're not saying he's superstitious, but...

ROOT SPORTS' Dan Potash asked Sid following today's morning skate if he's keeping the mustache because of his point streak. Sid's response (with a sly grin...)

"Couldn't find a razor."

2011-12-01T08:00:00.010-05:00

REASON #87

His RETURN and THAT FIRST GOAL
(no one could've written a better story!)

I should've done this a few weeks ago, but since there hasn't been one of these posts in a while I figured it's just as good of a time as any!!!

And how appropriate is it that it's THE 87th REASON?!! I did not plan that -- I DIDN'T!!!

Crosby's return ... could it have been any better?!!! I was lucky enough to be there and witness it in person and it was even more chilling than it could've ever come across on TV, BELIEVE ME (I actually don't remember much from the night -- I think I was literally in shock that the time had finally come and I was actually THERE!)!!

Anyway, my favorite part of it all aside from the first time he stepped onto the ice for pre-game warm-ups was when he scored his first goal - SO EXCITING ... I could've watched his celebration over and OVER AGAIN. In fact, I still get a kick out of watching it and I get just as excited about it as the first time it happened!!!

So here it is ... REASON #87 WHY I LOVE SIDNEY CROSBY (in motion!)!! "FUCK-YEAH!!" -- sorry, I just HAD to do it!!! ; P

SUPER DUPER!

2011-11-30T06:30:00.001-05:00

SO my husband and I were at the game last Friday and when Pascal Dupuis scored his goal, they played a snippet from the movie, "Anchorman" which makes reference to "SUPER DUPER," of course!! I believe they're trying to create themed celebrations for each player who scores on the team which I think would be awesome.
You already know that two HUGE names in wrestling (the former "Mr. Kennedy" and Hulk Hogan) have recorded his own personal celebration calls for Tyler Kennedy and Geno. I think it's really cool and gives the fans / players something extra to relate to when the players score -- it's VERY FUN to hear / watch while you're there.
But "SUPER DUPER" has to be mine and my husband's favorite just because we LOVE that movie to begin with and after seeing it, we just couldn't stop laughing!!

For those of you who may not have yet witnessed it, here ya go (THANK Goodness for YouTube!)!!!

ENJOY!!

Malkin: Pittsburgh Magazine Cover

2011-11-28T15:55:00.000-05:00

Malkin is on the cover of the December issue of "Pittsburgh" magazine (LOVE that they used "The Incredible MALK!"). Pretty decent article too, "Evgeni Malkin Will Speak to You Now" (definitely worth a read!)!! Whether or not you love Geno, you'll love him [more] after reading this article - I guarantee it ... the last two sentences of the article (one of which is a quote from Malkin) may just be enough themselves!

“Tell fans thank you for supporting Penguins and Steelers,” he says. “And sorry for my English.”

Geno’s come full circle. He’s Pittsburgh through and through. He’s caring to a fault. His gruffness is his charm. He bleeds for the things he loves.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to You, Fleury!!

2011-11-28T10:24:00.000-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to one of our favorite goalies ...

Today is Fleury's birthday ... he turns 27!!!

"MERRY SIDMAS" PENS NATION!!!!

2011-11-21T14:28:00.000-05:00

I'm "Calling Dr. Love!"

2011-11-16T11:44:00.002-05:00

This is TOO GOOD not to share!!! One of Mark Madden's tweets after last night's big win for the Pens (the SuperGenius really has A WAY WITH WORDS and I LOVE it!)!!!

"@jneal_18 is getting scoring down 2a science. The puck follows him around & he wears Gene Simmons' shin guards #callingdrlove #iloveitloud"

I don't know about you ladies, but I think I need a HOUSE CALL!!! ; D

While we're on this topic, here's the title of a recent article talking about Neal and last night's game that my good buddy, Debbie B., was nice enough to point out to me: "James Neal stays hot at home as Penguins rally past Colorado 6-3" (and her response: "duh ... really?")!! And while we're on songs ... heard this today and I thought it would be appropriate to include some lines here (it's just a HP thing; and all the confidence that goes with it when he's 'scoring' - nothing SEXIER!! Obviously MM knows what he's talking about - LOL) ---

Just shoot for the stars

If it feels right

And aim for my heart

If you feel like

And take me away and make it OK

I swear I'll behave

You wanted control

So we waited

I put on a show

Now I'm naked
You say I'm a kid

My ego is big

I don't give a shit

And it goes like this

[Chorus:]

Take me by the tongue

And I'll know you

Kiss me 'til you're drunk

And I'll show you

You want the moves like Jagger

I've got the moves like Jagger

I don't need to try to control you

Look into my eyes and I'll own you

With them moves like Jagger

I've got the moves like Jagger

"Moves Like Jagger" - Maroon 5

Rangers / Richards "Good Luck Charm"

2011-11-15T21:30:00.001-05:00

THANKS to my HftL buddy, Jesse, for this juicy tid-bit!! ; D

Well, first, GAG ME (yeah I'm BITTER - with anyone who can snag themselves a HP - lol!!) ... but onto the news!

Apparently James Neal isn't the only one benefiting from a Dallas trade. The big buzz around the hockey / entertainment world is Brad Richards having a new love interest!

According to Us Weekly, several sources have confirmed that Richards and actress Olivia Munn (G4's "Attack of the Show," Comedy Central's "The Daily Show," and NBC's "Perfect Couples" fame) are dating (after the New York Post reported that the two were seen out eating dinner together at Spasso in New York's West Village last Thursday).

"It's pretty new," a Munn pal tells Us. "She's excited. We'll see how it goes."

As for the "good luck charm" reference, well that's coming from the "Just Jared" blog reporting that a source overheard an MSG rep say,
“Brad and Olivia have been dating a couple weeks. Olivia has become the Rangers’ good luck charm as they’ve been on a 6-0 winning streak since they first started dating two weeks ago.”

New Dempster's Video and A Chance for [Canadian Residents] to Meet Crosby

2011-11-15T13:58:00.000-05:00

This commercial began airing in Canada last Friday, November 11th. Along with thr new ad campaign, Dempster's is sponsoring several online and in-store promotions (for Canadian residents only) for a chance to win several prizes - the best of which is a chance to meet Sidney Crosby.

As part of this new campaign, Dempster's is hosting in-store and online promotions that give Canadians a chance to meet Sidney Crosby, and win signed sweaters and merchandise (including a clothes dryer) through an in-store and online promotion. Consumers can compete in an online game to see how many pucks they can get into a clothes dryer. This is a fun take on the story from Crosby's youth where he perfected his shot in his parents' basement, while occasionally hitting their dryer.

In conjunction with the new campaign launch, Dempster's is making a $25,000 donation to the Sidney Crosby Foundation, which supports children's charities throughout Canada, including in Sidney's home province of Nova Scotia.

To read the entire press release, CLICK HERE. To enter for a chance to win some great prizes (if your a resident of Canada), visit Dempster's Facebook page.

Eastern Conference Eye Candy: Josh Bailey (New York Islanders)

2011-11-14T09:24:00.188-05:00

HOCKEY FACTOR:

Like most professional hockey players, Josh Bailey began playing hockey at an early age (started skating at 2-1/2 years old and began playing at 4 years old).

"I think I started skating when I was about two and a half – my dad would take me out all the time. I always said I wanted to go skating and what not. And there is a funny story. I always used to complain, I'd cry when I fell down and hurt myself. So then I'd say I never wanted to skate again. (My dad) just kept putting more padding on me and more padding on me over the years so whenever I fell I'd hop back up. Then after that I took right off. I started playing when I was four."

At age four, Josh played for his first team the Oshawa Minor Generals until age nine when he joined the Clarington Minor Hockey Association AAA League and played for the Clarington Toros through the 2004-05 season.

He was then drafted in the first round of the OHL Priority selection in 2005 and began playing for the Owen Sound Attack (2005-06, part of 2006-07) before being traded to the Windsor Spitfires during the following season (2006-07). While playing with the Spitfires, Bailey was made named as an alternate captain, played in the 2008 OHL All-Star Classic as well as the 2008 Canadian Hockey League Top Prospects game then was ultimately drafted in the first round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Islanders (9th overall).

The Islanders signed Bailey to a three-year contract worth $900,000 in October 2008 before announcing that he would be on their NHL roster for the 2008-09 season; however, due to a pre-season injury, he wouldn't make his debut until November 11, 2008 (missing a total of 14 games). He scored his first goal on January 2, 2009 against the Phoenix Coyotes. Most recently, Josh played in his 200th NHL / Islander game this past season in March 2011.

Bailey is a pretty versatile player although he doesn't use his size to his advantage and could benefit from being a bit more physical. He has described himself as a playmaker with good vision of the ice and that he's more prone to passing the puck and making a play rather than shooting to score a goal. He can play on both ends of the ice as well as special teams. Prior to his being drafted, the NHL's Director of Scouting E.J. McGuire believed the power play was one of his strengths and had this to say about Josh:

"Josh is the quarterback on the power-play, from down low, for the Windsor Spitfires and I think he is going to continue to be that. He is a good play-making centerman with the ability to feed his linemates when he needs to and shoot the puck when the play requires that."

HOTNESS FACTOR:
Bailey is large at a height of 6' 1 and 190 pounds. He was born and raised in Bowmanville, Ontario. His nickname is "Bails."

He wore the number 89 while playing in the OHL for his birth year. And if he didn't play hockey for a living, he would want to be a police officer.

From what I've read, he supposedly has a steady girlfriend named Megan.

FAVORITES:

NHL Team: Toronto Maple Leafs
NHL Player: Joe Sakic
Shootout move: "fake shot backhand five hole"
Goal celebration: "arm in the air"
Practice Drill: "2 on 1's"
Video Game: Guitar Hero
Movie: Superbad
TV Show: Family Guy
Actor: Will Ferrell
Pump-up song: "Love is Gone" by David Guetta
Food to cook: Egg sandwich
Sport (other than hockey): Baseball
Activity away from the rink: Fishing
Place to visit: the beach

Information in this post obtained from the following:
2008 NHL Entry Draft Player Profile - Joshua Bailey
Josh Bailey Wikipedia
New York Islanders Player Profile: Josh Bailey

Lecavalier Wedding - August 2011

2011-11-13T20:26:00.001-05:00

that bouquet is a little close to his head
(almost hides his gorgeous face!)

THANKS to HftL reader, M.H., I just learned that Tampa Bay’s Vinny Lecavalier married his long-time girlfriend, Caroline Portelance, this past August.

He also recently became a daddy for the second time to a baby boy he and Caroline named Gabriel Vincent and his first-born daughter, Victoria, celebrated her first birthday this past May 2011.

Again ...CONGRATS TO VINNY AND THE LECAVALIER FAMILY!!!

Crosby and Neal Pictures of the Week

2011-11-08T13:49:00.000-05:00

SID <3

Do it, do it, DO IT ENGO ... hit him so he's ready to come back!!
IN ALL SERIOUSNESS (to clarify), I want Sid back when he's GOOD AND READY
(but it's HARD waiting!!)

Sid with Coach Dan (and a BIG SMILE!)!
(What could they be talking about? Hockey, no doubt with a smile like that!)

Sid signing a military plane

Sid looking dapper in another one of his SEXY suits (no tie!)!

and ...
NEALY (with that smile!) <3
THANKS to my good buddy, Debbie B., for brightening my day with a few of these!! ; )

SMILING

A "congrats" smile for Engelland (lucky guy!)!

CELEBRATING WITH GENO(another BRO-mance, perhaps? One can only hope!!)

UM ... no words!!!

MORE Hockey Announcements: Babies and A Wedding!

2011-11-06T20:50:00.001-05:00

THANKS to all of my awesome followers / readers for passing along all the great news on our guys!! Another engagement AND baby in the hockey world!!

Patrick Sharp and his wife, Abby, are expecting a baby girl in December (15th, to be exact). According to my good buddy, Debbie B., he was recently on a radio show talking about it. They had a joint baby shower with fellow Blackhawk John Scott's wife, Danielle, who are also having a baby!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO PATRICK, ABBY,
JOHN, AND DANIELLE!!!

I also wanted to mention (because it's been everywhere except this blog!) that Hilary Duff and Mike Comrie are expecting a BABY BOY!! CONGRATS TO THEM (THANKS, Laura - can't forget that!)!! I believe she recently made the announcement on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.

Now for the engagement news, THANKS to D.L. for emailing me that former Pittsburgh Penguins d-man, Alex Goligoski, recently got engaged to his high school sweetheart, Amanda Anderson -- they make such a great-looking couple (it was in October sometime -- 15th or 16th, D.L. didn't know which)!!! No details on the date yet, but you guys know whatever I know that I'll pass it along to all of you!!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALEX AND AMANDA!!

And one other small piece of business to take care of ... my condolences to all you Kaner lovers out there ... i hear from a HftL follower that he's officially "off the market" now has a girlfriend named Grace. CONGRATS to Kaner (and Grace), I guess (do you congratulate people for becoming an "item?").

MANTRACKER: Shane and Brook Doan

2011-11-01T06:00:00.002-04:00

I wasn't familiar with the show, MANTRACKER, until I saw one of them had Shane Doan as a contestant (note to TV shows wanting better ratings, INCLUDE A HOCKEY PLAYER!)!! MANTRACKER is described as "the ultimate game of hide-and-seek."

Two people take off into the bush with a map, a compass and a head start. Mantracker is on horseback, armed with a local guide and an arsenal of forensic skills. The prey have 36 hours to reach a finish line some 25 miles away without getting caught. How they escape is up to them.

And Shane Doan ... I've always thought he's SEXY AS HELL for many reasons (and this is just another one!)!! Although, I think his brother is adopted - LOL!! The ending of this show is really quite touching. Below is a clip from the show which airs tonight at 10 PM and is the premiere of the new season of the show.

"I wasn't tough enough to be a cowboy, so I became a hockey player." - Shane Doan

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from Geno and Sid!

2011-10-31T12:01:00.002-04:00

The Penguins are "off" until their next game on Thursday and what a better way to start it all off than with a Halloween party?!!

THANKS to Evgeni Malkin being super Twitter-saavy (@Malkin71_), we can all enjoy a couple pictures from the team's Halloween party last night.

I know Sid is a gladiator, but what about Geno? Pimp, 70's porn star ... I can't really tell for sure what he's going for. Regardless, I'm loving the chest hair which he no doubt took from his wig (very clever!)!!
Yes, this IS really Geno's official Twitter account (it's verified ) and YES, that really is him and Sid (confirmed by Geno himself - "Geno and sid))))")!! THIS is the stuff I live for as a die-hard fan (as I'm sure alot of other fans do), so I'm posting it to share with all of you to enjoy too in case you didn't catch them last night.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN, Pens nation!!!

And I threw one in for "good measure." The MLF posted this on the FB page today (which I was led to by Twitter this morning):

Happy Halloween! In celebration, check out Mario posing as James Bond for an event back in 2003!

It's A[nother] Boy!!

2011-10-28T10:52:00.000-04:00

Shortly after I posted news on the Howard's new baby son, HftL reader KZ commented that Lecavalier just had his second son recently as well!! THANKS, KZ!!!

WELCOME TO THE [HOCKEY] WORLD, Gabriel Lecavalier!!!

Last Tuesday, October 18, 2011, Vinny Lecavalier's wife, Caroline, gave birth to the couple's second child -- a baby boy they named Gabriel Vincent who weighed in at 7 pounds, 5 ounces. Older sister, Victoria, celebrated her first birthday this past May.

Lacavalier who scored a goal in the first game he played in against the New York Islanders after Gabriel's birth, returned home with a stick for his son.

“I’m going to write on it that it’s his first game,” Lecavalier told the St. Petersburg Times, “and I scored.”

TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE, CLICK HERE!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO Vinny, Caroline, and Victoria!!

It's A Boy!!

2011-10-28T09:17:00.000-04:00

THANK YOU, Diane B, for sharing the link and happy news!!

WELCOME TO THE [HOCKEY] WORLD, James Russell Howard, IV!!!

On Sunday, October 23, 2011, Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard and his wife, Rachel, welcomed a baby boy into this world - the couple's first.

"I've been talking to him while he's in my wife's belly and everything like that, so to finally see him face-to-face and see his blue eyes and the expressions he already has, it's pretty special," Howard said.

Father and son watched the Wings-Blue Jackets game and, said Howard, "The little guy saw himself on television for the first time."

And Friday, the little guy will see his dad on television for the first time, when the Wings host San Jose.

TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE, CLICK HERE!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO Jimmy and Rachel Howard!!

Crosby and Neal Pictures of the Week

2011-10-25T12:01:00.003-04:00

Hockey season really motivates me! Can you tell??!!!

And since I haven't been too much on the ball these past several weeks, some of the pics are older -- the ones toward the end of the post (like the home-opener-kind of old!)!! But they are all really worth posting (you'll see!) -- I meant to have a few of the ones I took, but I haven't "spiffied" them up yet (of course - not too good with pictures either -- in my mind, at least I know I have them!)!!

I also have a few from those of you who were nice enough to send me some of your own -- so hopefully I can be ready and have them up next time (I really appreciate you guys emailing to share with me ESPECIALLY GOOD PICS!)!! ; D

Anyway ... ENJOY, LADIES!!!

My Sid <3

Sid and Geno practice celebrating a goal
(its been a while!)

Sid and Geno BRO-HUG
(I'm tellin's ya ... it's a secret BRO-MANCE!)!!

Sid and Geno
(after the BRO-HUG!)

Sid IN A SNAZZY SUIT for introductions before the home-opener
(almost nothing better!)!!

Sid and Geno during introductions at the home-opener
(I will always believe, in my own mind, that THIS is a secret BRO-MANCE!)

MY NEALY <3 (I DO realize that his nickname is really "Nealer;" however, "Nealy" is MY NICKNAME for him!!! ; )

How adorable is he?!!!(that's rhetroical, ladies) ; P
AND THAT SMILE -- ughhhhhhhh!!!

A Nealy Sandwich -- why, yes please!!(now I'm just amusing myself!)

Again, ADORABLE!!
(my descriptive word(s) for him is "adorably sexy" -- and my buddy Christy says there IS such a thing!)

Neal skating at team practice the morning of the home-opener

This one IS from my own personal collection - I made it my FB profile pic!
(it's either training camp OR the "Town Hall Meeting")

Eastern Conference Eye Candy: Kris Versteeg (Florida Panthers)

2011-10-24T08:00:00.082-04:00

HOCKEY FACTORS:
Kris Versteeg began playing hockey for the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the WHL (Western Hockey League) in 2002 for three seasons (2002-03, 2003-04, 2004-05) before playing with both the Kamloops Blazers and Red Deer Rebels in the 2005-06 season.

He was drafted in the fifth round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins (134th overall). He played with the Bruins' AHL affiliate in Providence for parts of two seasons (2005-06, 2006-07) before being traded to the Chicago Blackhawks making his NHL debut with them in the 2007-08 season. He played at the NHL level for a total of 13 games and tallied two goals and four points during that time. The next season (2008-09) was Versteeg's first full [rookie] season with the Blackhawks and was nominated for the Calder Memorial Trophy (Best Rookie). He went on to help Chicago win the 2010 Stanley Cup Championship.

Two weeks after he won the Stanley Cup with the 2010 Chicago Blackhawks, he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs (he was part of the organization readjusting / eliminating salaries to remain under the cap that off-season). And in February of this year (2011), he was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for first-round and third-round draft picks who then traded him a few months later to the Florida Panthers for a second-round pick (2012 or 2013 - Florida's choice) and a third-round pick in the 2012 entry draft.

Versteeg is currently leading the Panthers with goals (4) and points (8). He reached career milestones this month by scoring his first goal as a Panther (which was also his 150th NHL point) and set season highs with TOI (22:00) and shots (6) on October 15th then tied his career highs for goals and points on October 17th -- both games were against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

HOTNESS FACTORS:

Kris has a younger brother, Mitch, who also plays professional hockey (as a defenseman) in the ECHL currently for the Trenton Titans ~~Kalamazoo Wings~~ <-- last season for Kalamazoo (THANKS to "TaylorGNR" for the update!).

A few days after winning the Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks, Kris got a tattoo depicting "06 • 09 • 10" for the date they won the Cup (pictured above-right).

“I had it done at 4 a.m.,” he said, sheepishly. “A couple days after.”

Versteeg has also been added to a notable, small list of players / teams that have his name incorrectly spelled on the Stanley Cup. It appears as "Vertseeg" (the engraver had switched the 's' and 't' in his last name). According to the older Versteeg, his younger brother predicted the mishap which has since been corrected by the NHL ("I think they just kind of punched (the correct letters) over it, you can tell," he told the Toronto Star after seeing a picture the league had sent him after the correction).

"I may never be one of the biggest names in the game but now it'll go down in history as one of the misspells on the Stanley Cup so I'll take it," Versteeg told the Toronto Star. "It's just a perfect example of my life. Just something crazy and quirky that's always happening to me."

"We were all sitting as a family around the Stanley Cup in the living room looking at all the misspelled names. My brother was like, 'I guarantee they spell our name wrong,'" he said.

It's [Beefcake] Calendar Time, Ladies!!

2011-10-23T12:09:00.000-04:00

That's right -- it's that time of year again!!! The Penguins gave away their annual calendar last night to all the fans in attendance at the game. And, yes, they've outdone themselves once again ... my only complaint is that THERE'S NO NEALY!!! :*(

However, the rest of you who have other Penguin favorites in the calendar will be quite pleased (and I still have my Sid who is looking quite scrumptious, I might add!)!! And, again, this year they're marketing to the females as I said to my husband that I don't think he wants a calendar with a close-up of Tanger's or Staalsy's face hung in his cubicle!!! They all look really attractive!LOL ; P

I give you the 2011-12 Penguins [Beefcake] calendar -- ENJOY, LADIES!!!

OCTOBER - COOKEY

NOVEMBER - LETANG

DECEMBER - ADAMS

JANUARY - ORPIK

FEBRUARY - KUNITZ

MARCH - CROSBY

APRIL - MALKIN

MAY - STAAL

JUNE - DUPUIS

JULY - KENNEDY

AUGUST - MICHALEK

SEPTEMBER - MARTIN

OCTOBER 2012 - FLEURY

FUNNY Crosby Cartoon

2011-10-18T13:39:00.000-04:00

An editorial cartoon from Randy Bish of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review!!

Eastern Conference Eye Candy: Patrick Kaleta (Buffalo Sabres)

2011-10-17T16:17:00.000-04:00

HOCKEY FACTOR:
Patrick Kaleta started out playing both minor (Hamburg Hawks and West Seneca Wings) and high school hockey (St. Francis High School - Athol Springs, NY). It was during high school that he was discovered by the Peterborough Petes of the OHL with whom he played for four seasons (2002-03 - 2005-06).

He was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the 6th round (176th overall) in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft and has been with the organization since (signing a contract back in June 2006). From 2006-07 through 2007-08, Kaleta split his time between Buffalo's AHL affiliate, the Rochester Americans, and the Sabres until the 2008-09 season when he remained on the Sabres NHL roster.

Patrick earned his first point during his first NHL game on February 22, 2007 against the Ottawa Senators.

Kaleta is only the fourth Buffalo-area resident to play for the hometown Sabres in the regular season (Scott Thomas, Randy Burridge, and Tim Kennedy), but of the four, he is the one who has spent the most time and played the most games with Buffalo.

He's small for a hockey player (at 5'11), but he does pack a punch and usually is placed on the Sabres fourth line with other enforcers (he's more of an agitator, but won't hesitate to drop the gloves when necessary); as for the style of hockey Kaleta plays, The Hockey News has called him "an agitating energy winger" and says the following about him:

Works very hard. Likes to antagonize the opposition and is also an occasional combatant. Provides energy and grit to any lineup. Has a decent two-way game.

Patrick played in his 200th NHL career game last season on March 1, 2011 against the New York Rangers.

HOTTIE FACTOR:

Kaleta is another American-born player; he grew up in Angola, NY (a suburb of Buffalo).

His favorite hockey player growing up was Mike Peca who also played for the Buffalo Sabres and wore #27 which is the number Kaleta wore during his time in OHL and AHL.

He is greatly involved in charity work and founded the HITS Foundation (Helping Individuals To Smile) which provides financial, facility and program support for underprivileged children and adults to offer opportunities in activities that would otherwise be unavailable to them. From Buffalo BusinessFirst:

“I’ve always enjoyed being out in the community and helping people,” he said recently while getting ready to tee off at his foundation’s second annual golf outing Aug. 22. “If there is any way I can help someone, I love to do it.”

Hockey Announcements (Baby and Engagement)

2011-10-14T16:09:00.000-04:00

We have both a hockey birth and engagement rolled into one ... WELL, it's not for ONE player, but I'm grouping the "announcements" into one post ... anyway, MOVING ON --

THANKS to loyal follower, Debbie, for bringing it to my attention that this article mentions Brooks Orpik's fiancée ... so we now know that our elite defenseman is engaged (to Erin Lilly) - not sure when it happened or the date of the wedding, but be sure I'll have details / news if I come across them!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO BROOKS AND ERIN!!!

Also (THANKS to another loyal follower, Laura!), Hal Gil and his wife welcomed their third child into the world on Wednesday; a baby boy that I believe is named Talon (haven't confirmed that).

CONGRATULATIONS TO HAL AND THE GILL FAMILY!!

Sid's BACK IN BLACK, Baby!!!

2011-10-13T12:16:00.001-04:00

Ladies, Sid is FINALLY Cleared for "Full Contact!" Um, YEAH (that "full contact" thing -- makes me think naughty thoughts), but ANYWAY ...

Sid confirmed that he has been cleared for "full contact," but that its limited to practices for now ... SO EXCITING (it won't be long before we'll see him playing again!)!!!

"I'm cleared for full contact," Crosby said. "It's a good step in the right direction. We'll see how it goes in the next little bit."

WOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

So ARE ANY OF YOU CELEBRATING??? My friend and I are going for a Chinese lunch buffet ; P IF YOU'RE CELEBRATING, BE SURE TO EMAIL ME ... I WANT TO KNOW HOW YOU'RE ALL CELEBRATING SID'S "RETURN!"

OK ... before I posted the update, O-M-G (I'm listening to my iPhone and it's on shuffle) and "Holding Out for a Hero" came up ... HOW APPROPRIATE IS THAT??!!!!!!!!!!! So now I have to include the lyrics in this post ... ENJOY (can you tell I am?!)!!

BACK IN BLACK, BABY (black helmet)
like everyone else on the ice!!!

**************

Where have all good men gone

And where are all the gods?

Where’s the street-wise Hercules

To fight the rising odds?

Isn’t there a white knight upon a fiery steed?

Late at night I toss and turn and dream of what I need

I need a hero

I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the end of the night

He’s gotta be strong

And he’s gotta be fast

And he’s gotta be fresh from the fight

I need a hero

I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the morning light

He’s gotta be sure

And it’s gotta be soonAnd he’s gotta be larger than life

Somewhere after midnight

In my wildest fantasy

Somewhere just beyond my reach

There’s someone reaching back for me

Racing on the thunder and rising with the heat

It’s gonna take a superman to sweep me off my feet

I need a hero

I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the end of the night

He’s gotta be strong

And he’s gotta be fast

And he’s gotta be fresh from the fight

I need a hero

I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the morning light

He’s gotta be sure

And it’s gotta be soon

And he’s gotta be larger than life

Up Where the mountains meet the heavens above

Out where the lightning splits the sea

I would swear that there’s someone somewhere

Watching me

Through the wind and the chill and the rain

And the storm and the flood

I can feel his approach

Like a fire in my blood

I need a hero

I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the end of the night

He’s gotta be strong

And he’s gotta be fast

And he’s gotta be fresh from the fight

I need a hero

I’m holding out for a hero ‘til the morning light

He’s gotta be sure

And it’s gotta be soon

And he’s gotta be larger than life

...
**************
~ "Holding Out For A Hero" - Bonnie Tyler ~

2012 Penguins & Paws Calendar

2011-10-13T06:00:00.001-04:00

This season the Penguins will once again be offering their "Penguins & Paws" calendar featuring members of the Pittsburgh Penguins with pets or various animals from the shelter.

The cost is $20 each and proceeds will benefit the Pittsburgh Animal Rescue League Shelter and Wildlife Center.

They are currently taking pre-orders!! And WHY PRE-ORDER??

all of those who pre-order will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win an autographed Pittsburgh Penguins item and a FREE calendar, so ...

RESERVE YOUR COPY NOW!!
For more information (and / or to pre-order)
visit the Pittsburgh Animal Rescue League webpage
OR CONTACT ANN YEAGER AT:
412-345-1346
ayeager@animalrescue.org

And JUST IN CASE you need a little incentive to donate, here are a few pics from the 2010 calendar and some HftL LINKS!!

Fleury In the Buff?!

2011-10-12T12:07:00.000-04:00

We could've been looking at Marc-Andre Fleury's "buff" goalie bod, ladies!! NO, I'm not kidding.

I'm not sure how many of you HAVEN'T heard this news already because it's been the talk of the internet for the past few days, but its definitely HftL-news-worthy, so I figured I'd post it JUST IN CASE ...

Did you know that Fleury was approached by ESPN to be in "The Body Issue?" YES - THAT "Body Issue!"

Don't get me wrong, I like Fleury ... he's a cutie with that huge smile of his and his sense of humor is quite charming / attractive, but I'm not so sure he's "Body Issue" material (and he said it himself ... in not so many words, but ...). According to the video interview (with CBC) that was posted by 96.1 Kiss FM's "The Morning Freak Show," it was Fleury's decision not to do it and that the Penguins organization wanted him to most likely for the publicity (that's a little hard to believe, but you never know -- I highly doubt MAF would make that stuff up!)!

Q: Which of your teammates is the best candidate to pose nude for ESPN Magazine?
Fleury: No, actually, they asked me this summer, but I declined ... I guess they're looking for goalies ...

Q: Did Mario shut you down?
Fleury: The Penguins wanted me to do it, I guess to promote the team .. That's not me. I'm not the big, buff guy with the big muscles.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO!!

Why, Mr. Kesler, Don't You Look ... NAKED?!!!

2011-10-05T13:59:00.008-04:00

[UPDATE #2 - MARK MADDEN WEIGHS IN, 10/06/2011]According to "Double-M," the photo is very homoerotic ("not that that's a bad thing") ...

[UPDATE - PHOTOSHOP CHALLENGE?]
EVEN Puck Daddy himself can't deny what a perfect specimen Kesler is (I'd say someone had pizza last night for dinner!)!! He also includes a link to the source (Pass it to Bulis) of all the PHOTOSHOP FUN YOU COULD WANT TO HAVE WITH THIS PICTURE (well, unless you're female --- and then I could think of some other photoshop fun there could be --- and if any of you ladies want to "give that a spin," I'd consider posting a few of them for all the rest of us to enjoy - FIRST EVER HftL PHOTOSHOP CHALLENGE, ANYONE?!)!! ; P

There is NO EDITING needed for this picture (unlike previously)!!

I think I can speak for most hockey-loving [MALE-loving] females out there (if I can even form a coherent sentence right now!) .... I LOVE YOU, ESPN (this is a brilliant concept!)!!!

KUDOS to Mr. Kesler for having the, ummmmmmmm, NERVE to pose for this (GOD BLESS 'IM -- showin' off what his mama gave 'im like that -- maybe I should say GOD BLESS MRS. KESLER [mom and WIFE!] for ALLOWING HIM to show us so we all know most of what she does!!)!!! If you would like a sneak ~~peep~~, I mean PEEK, of the pictures featured in the most recent ESPN's "The Body Issue," CLICK HERE!!

I apologize for the unfinished look of this post, but I'M AT WORK right now (and there was only so much I could do with this picture!) - LOL!!!! Also (this is actually really funny because this really did catch me off-guard and this post is so unlike me because it's so THROWN-TOGETHER!) -- supposedly these photos were "leaked," but seeing as how I linked to them from ESPN, I highly doubt they were leaked (or were so on purpose) ... THIS ISSUE HITS STORES THIS COMING FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7TH!!!

GOOD LORD IN HEAVEN!!! ; D

ESPN's Third Annual "Body Issue"

2011-10-04T06:00:00.001-04:00

I touched on this last week when I used it to write a "sorry it's been so long" post, but I just want to give you a few more [important] details!

ESPN The Magazine is set to release it's third annual "Body Issue." It'll hit the stands this coming Friday, October 7th, so mark your calendars ladies!!

In addition to Ryan Kesler (note the correct spelling!), the LA Kings will be featured in an interview where ESPN "turns the tables" and the writer will be naked while interviewing the players (I haven't seen anything on which Kings took part, but we don't have to wait much longer to find out!). And, as mentioned in the last post, US Women's Olympic hockey player Julie Chu will also be featured in the magazine.

So those of you who are planning to purchase a copy (or will receive a copy in the mail) and are willing to share a half-clad Mr. Kesler with the rest us, please email me and I will gladly post for everyone else to see while giving credit, of course -- we would all appreciate it tremendously!!

It's Been A While, Remember Me?!!

2011-09-29T11:52:00.003-04:00

For those of you who do ... I think I may have to partly thank Puck Daddy for that ... A BIG THANK YOU, sir!!!!

Yesterday he mentioned me in part of his, "Underwear model Ryan Kesler to appear nude in ESPN Magazine" post - imagine THAT, I know!!!

If anything else, I look at it as someone else getting my humor (or maybe not, but DON'T wake me from my big dream, Puck-D ... it's like the first time EVERYtime - lol!)!!! I will stop now ...

One thing you CANNOT DENY is that hockey players have gorgeous bodies (I've created an entire blog honoring that fact!)!! ESPN focusing on a few of them in a special magazine - BINGO, where do I pick up my winnings?!! And, I mean, if guys can do it (in the same Puck Daddy article a few paragraphs down, he states, "we're quite pleased about that," in response to US Olympic hockey player Julie Chen also being in the special ESPN issue) then WHY CAN'T WOMEN --> (Hockey for the Ladies, people!)?!!!

Anyway, I've spent way too much time (from the beginning of it's inception) defending this blog when it stands on it's own merit, so I won't continue with this train of thought and if you don't get it yet then you're obviously not going to so continue making fun of it or whatever else you were doing ...

But COME ON, Ryan Kesler ... GREAT CHOICE for a follow-up, ESPN!!!!!

2011-09-20T10:28:00.000-04:00

I'm still getting interest for this year's FHL. I actually had to start a third league, so I wanted to give you another update just so I can tie up a few loose ends with it. There's still time AND openings ...

I still have invitations pending out there for those of you who told me you were interested, but still haven't joined. I also discovered that there may be a problem with the Yahoo! invites and some of you may not have gotten them, if thats your particluar case, PLEASE BE SURE TO EMAIL ME. If you've encountered any problems at all with anything (not receiving an invite after you asked me to join, not being able to complete the process to join due to any number of errors, or even if you're not sure whether or not I got your initial request or if you just want to check to make sure everything is set for when the season begins) PLEASE EMAIL ME and I will make sure to work things out for you or confirm that things with your team are all set!!

With that being said, if any of you are still interested but haven't had a chance to email me, there are a few more openings still left!! In fact, if those who I sent invites to and haven't acted on them yet don't end up having a team then we will definitely NEED teams (one league has been finalized, the other one needs ONLY ONE MORE TEAM and the third league I recently created has room for AT LEAST 5 more)!

AND I will be closing things out this coming Friday, September 23rd and I will have to finalize all three leagues within that day or the next, so you have until then to decide but after that, I have to make the leagues / teams final (and I'm hoping that we have enough / an even amount of teams for the two remaining leagues). If you guys could help me out with that whether you need to contact me to get things fixed or you just decided to create a team, PLEASE EMAIL ME and we'll get things all set.

thesteelcitysportsfan@gmail.com

Remember, if any of you have questions or concerns, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME!! ; )

JUST MARRIED: Lubomir Višňovský

2011-09-18T20:15:00.000-04:00

THANKS to Aďa O. for sending this information to me!!

Last Tuesday (September 13th), Lubomir Višňovský (of the Anaheim Ducks) married his girlfriend, Kate dlhoročnej Šestákovej. It was a spontaneous decision between the two that was kept very secretive. Only three other people were present - two-year-old son, Maxim Luke, and two friends. Because of this, they are planning a church ceremony for next summer.
This is Višňovský's second marriage.

CONGRATULATIONS TO LUBOMIR AND KATE!!

Crosby and Neal Pictures (and Videos) of the Week

2011-09-13T20:53:00.000-04:00

With hockey season right around the corner and the pictures becoming more abundant, you didn't think I would miss a day of pictures, did you?!! ; D

I have a few for Sid ... after all these weeks, it's really great to be seeing him so much (he's really had lots of scheduled engagements these past couple of weeks!)!!

2011 NHL Player Media Tour

Press Conference

Press Conference

2011 Ticket Deliver Day

How GREAT is it to see Sid "back in action?" It may not be on the ice, but what a breath of fresh air to see him after his being "in hiding" for so long (HOCKEY IS ALMOST HERE!)!! And can I just say that Sid seems to be "glowing" ... I mean he's just BEAUTIFUL - flawless!! LOVE that smile!!

And there's no way I wouldn't post video ... ENJOY!!

2011 Season Ticket Delivery

How adorable is Neal?? I think I say that all the time when I talk about him. He is so quiet and polite, but he has one of the best voices ... and that Canadian accent [*SWOON*]!!! One of my Facebook friends sent me the link to video of his delivering tickets yesterday from the Penguins webpage and I haven't stopped grinning from ear-to-ear (THANKS Deb B.!!)!! As she pointed out to me quite insightfully, I might add, he hasn't found a place yet, so I can definitely offer him a room in my house!!

So let's give Neal some equal video time! ; )

"The right-winger on Sid's line from what I hear."
"I hope so ... it's going to be a good year."

HELL YES, Nealy!!! I LOVE my guys ... WHERE ARE YOU, hockey season (you can't come soon enough!)?!!

THIS JUST IN: Player Engagement!!

2011-09-13T16:18:00.000-04:00

THANKS to Caitlyn A. for this recent development on one of hockey's most eligible bachelors who is now "off the market!"

I'm sorry to inform some of you ladies that Zach Parise proposed to his LONG-time, girlfriend Alisha Woods, last month (August 2011). The wedding is set for sometime next July and will be held in Minnesota according to Rich Chere of The Star-Ledger.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ZACH AND PARISE
(sorry Christine!) : (

Eastern Conference Eye Candy: Marty Reasoner (New York Islanders)

2011-09-13T06:00:00.001-04:00

Since I had already promised it later YESTERDAY AFTERNOON, here's the ECEC I didn't get the time to post to CATCH UP!!! ENJOY, ladies!! ; D

HOCKEY FACTOR
Marty Reasoner is an American-born hockey player who played through high school (McQuaid Jesuit High School and Deerfield Academy) and college ranks before becoming a seasoned NHL veteran. He's also what you would call a "journeyman" being that he's played for (at least on paper) a number of teams throughout his NHL career (a total of seven different teams - Islanders being his seventh; the other six teams include St. Louis, Edmonton, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, and Florida).

Reasoner attended Boston College where he played hockey for a total of three seasons (1995-96 through 1997-98) and was named Hockey East Rookie of the Year his first season and to the Hockey East First All-Star Teams (1997, 1998), the NCAA East First All-American and Championship All-Tournament Team (both in 1998). Also during that time, he was drafted in the first round of the 1996 NHL Entry Draft by the St. Louis Blues (14th overall).

He spent most of his seasons from 1998-2001 with the St. Louis organization between the Blues and their AHL affiliate, the Worchester IceCats (to which he was voted as a starter on their 10th anniversary All-Time team in 2003).

On the first day of free-agency in July, 2001, he was traded by the Blues along with Jochen Hecht and Jan Horáček for Doug Weight and Michel Rieseno of the Edmonton Oilers. And his hockey career has been playing for one team after another ever since.

He spent the majority of the 2003-04 season off of the ice due to a major knee injury playing in only 17 games. During the NHL lockout the following year (2004-05), he played over in Europe after he was signed by EC Red Bull in Saltzburg, Austria.

When he returned to the US, he signed a one-year contract extension to play with Edmonton for the 2005-06 season. He was later traded along with Yan Statsny to the Boston Bruins in March 2006 in exchange for Sergei Samsonov, but only for a few short months (enough to miss playing in Edmonton's playoff run that season) before re-signing with the Oilers for an additional two years (2006-07, 2007-08). He then signed with the Atlanta Thrashers with whom he played two seasons (2008-09, 2009-10) before being traded to the Chicago Blackhawks on June 24, 2010 along with Atlanta's first and second round 2010 draft picks (Joey Crabb and Jeremy Morin) in exchange for Dustin Byfuglien, Ben Eager, Brent Sopel, and Akim Aliu. But due to salary cap restrictions, Chicago traded Reasoner to the Florida Panthers for Jeff Taffe the following month.

Prior to being signed by the New York Islanders this past off-season on July 1, 2011 (while still playing for the Florida Panthers), he earned his 250th career point with a goal against the New Jersey Devils on February 27, 2011 and played in his 700th NHL game this past season (2010-11) on March 27, 2011 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. He also ranked 21st in the league in face-off percentages (54.5%).

Reasoner has also represented the US on a number of occasions participating in international play. He played for Team USA twice in the World Junior U20 Hockey Championships (1996, 1997), and then again in 2002, 2003, 2006 in the World Hockey Championships.

HOTNESS FACTOR
I love American-born hockey players since they are vastly out-numbered by Canadians in the NHL. For me, they have their own brand of attractiveness.

His younger brother, Adam, played hockey for Boston as well (as goalie). In fact, he filled in for Panthers starting goaltender Scott Clemmensen during a team practice at MSG prior to a road game against the New York Rangers back in March 2011.

And just like so many players, he's a family man. He's married to a gal named Katie and they have a daughter named Allie who was born in February 2009 and recently had a second child - a son named Ryan on March 2nd of this year (belated CONGRATS to the Reasoner family!)!!

Information found in this post obtained from the following sites:

Marty Reasoner Wikipedia
Reasoner Florida Panther Page
Reasoner New York Islander Page

ECEC Coming UP ...

2011-09-12T13:09:00.001-04:00

later today, so STAY TUNED!!!

Can't wait and wanna hint?
This puck hottie played for seven teams in the 10+ years of his [NHL] career ...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, STAALSY!!!

2011-09-10T11:59:00.001-04:00

LOVE this ... it's funny as hell (found it on tumblr via strawberryslady)!!!

SOOOOOO .....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JORDAN "F'N" STAAL!!!!!

lol ; D

It's A Girl (Baby Hossa)!!

2011-09-10T10:21:00.001-04:00

THANKS to Liz S. for "the tip" on this news!

According to the Czech newspaper, sport.cas.sk, Marian Hossa and his newly wedded wife (of last July) Jana become the proud parents of a baby girl yesterday. It is the couple's first child whom they named Mia -- SO CUTE!!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO MARIAN AND JANA!!

2011 HftL Fantasy Hockey League UPDATE

2011-09-07T16:32:00.000-04:00

There's been a really great response to the league this year and I definitely have enough for at least two.

This post serves as a "call-out" to those who played with the HftL league last year. I believe I sent you messages directly through Yahoo! giving you the option to re-sign; however, I accidentally deleted the league and had to create another one, so ...

If any of you have been trying to sign back up through that email, but getting an error, please send an email directly to thesteelcitysportsfan@gmail.com, and I'll resend you an invite. I only had word from one person about this issue, so I thought I'd better let the rest of you know just in case there are more second-timers that still want to join but have been having problems trying to rejoin.

Otherwise, things are going great with sign-ups and we'll have at least two leagues this year for sure. If any of you have questions or concerns, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME!!

CONGRATS to Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Miller!!

2011-09-05T06:00:00.001-04:00

This past Saturday, September 3, 2011, Buffalo Sabres star goalie Ryan Miller wed beautiful actress Noureen DeWulf.

CONGRATULATIONS TO RYAN AND NOUREEN!!!

Hockey Players Announcements

2011-09-04T19:37:00.000-04:00

THANKS to a few HftL followers (Alicia S. and Liz S.) for most of these announcements!!

ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT
Cam Janssen
From Andy Strickland, radio host of 590 the Fan and NHL writer (via Twitter - @andystrickland):
Congrats to NHL tough guy Cam Janssen who got engaged last weekend to his longtime girlfriend Kate Bryan

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT
Kevin Westgarth (LA Kings)
This will be interesting news to both Pittsburghers and Steelers fans alike. Last month on August 12th, Kings enforcer, Kevin Westgarth, married the daughter of former Steelers coach Bill Cowher -- Meagan Cowher.

They met in college at Princeton where he played for the hockey team and she played for the women's basketball team.

BABY ANNOUNCEMENT
Patrick Sharp (Chicago Blackhawks)
According to a "Cheer the Anthem" tweet, Sharp and his wife, Abby, are expecting their first child:
And in wish-that-were-me news for our lady #Blackhawks fans, Patrick Sharp & his wife are expecting their first child. Congratulations!

CONGRATULATIONS TO CAM, KEVIN, PATRICK, AND THEIR FAMILIES!!

Join the 2011 HftL Fantasy Hockey League!!

2011-09-01T00:21:00.000-04:00

I've decided to once again extend the FUN we have on this blog into the realm of fantasy hockey and signed up to create HftL's very own fantasy hockey league at Yahoo! Sports. I'm pretty excited about it again this year!! I want to mention that last year was kind of a "dry run" and I ended up not being so involved, but I'm hoping to change that this year --- even trying to post results and standings, etc., AS LONG AS I HAVE TIME (I'm currently in the process of writing for two more blogs in addition to my own, so this year will also have to be "by the seat of my pants," but I WILL TRY very hard to be involved as I can and make it so we all have fun)!

Last year, I ended up expanding the league to accommodate the interest and created two separate leagues, so I decided to keep them both this year as well (hopefully we'll have just as much interest as last year). If you're interested, don't wait because we can only have a total of 26 slots (14 teams PER LEAGUE which includes my team in each league for a TOTAL of 28 teams). I will consider creating another league to accomodate any new interest this year, but we need to have AT LEAST four teams for each league I create.

PLEASE NOTE: the time of the draft is "eastern standard time" (EST) and some of the notes on the Yahoo! page is showing PST, so please be sure to check!

ALSO NOTE that since this is the second year I'm organizing the leagues, I decided to send invitations to previous managers (letting them decide whether or not they want to continue this season). BUT I somehow deleted the second league (FHL2), so if you were a part of that league last season, please email me ASAP IF YOU WANT TO CONTINUE THIS YEAR - thank you!!

The fantasy league's season coincides with the regular NHL season and as of now, the LIVE Draft (to pick up players for your team) is scheduled for Sunday, September 25th at 6:45 PM (est); however, if you join the league and have an issue with this date / time then we can try to juggle it so everyone can be present and pick players during the live draft.

THIS WILL BE FUN ... if you've never taken part in a fantasy league, now is the time!!! Fantasy leagues are alot of fun and combining the blog and it's readers into a fantasy hockey league just seems like a really natural fit ... I, in no way, take the league too "seriously" as some leagues do and this is all for the sole purpose of having MORE FUN!! I've been part of a couple leagues, but I'm in no way an expert; however, if you have any questions or are a little hesitant and would like a little more of an explanation (or are seriously considering but need a little convincing), PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME and I'll try my best to provide the information you need ... it really is fun (and somewhat addictive), I promise - you'll be happy you joined!!

SO IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN CREATING A TEAM AND JOINING THE LEAGUE, PLEASE EMAIL ME at thesteelcitysportsfan@gmail.com (with "FHL" as Subject) AND ONCE I KNOW HOW MANY OF YOU ARE INTERESTED, I'LL SEND YOU AN INVITATION SINCE THESE ARE SET UP AS "PRIVATE" LEAGUES (also note that we need AT LEAST 4 teams to be able to go forward with another league; I have already created teams for each of the two leagues that are currently set up)!!

THE LAST DAY TO LET ME KNOW YOU'RE INTERESTED WILL BE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23rd, so email me soon!!

LA Kings Cupcake Wars

2011-08-30T07:54:00.002-04:00

How come none of my Kings followers ever told me about this?? ; P THANKS to my FB friend, Laurie J-A., for this awesome find (this one went totally under the radar - by me - since December 2010!)!!

Cupcake Wars is another of the Food Network's weekly food show competition where four of the country's best cupcake bakers compete for a chance to win $10,000 and his / her cupcake featured in the "winning gig."

The show is in it's third season, but the episode involving the LA Kings was broadcast during Season 2 back in December 2010. The "winning gig" was a chance to bake the winning cupcake for the LA Kings at the home-opener celebration to kick off the start of the [2010] season. LA alternate captain, Matt Greene, makes an appearance as a guest judge!

I came across Laurie's FB link of this EARLY this morning (I was wide awake at 4:00 AM and no, unfortunately, I'm NOT kidding!), so I wasn't able to "prepare" for this post and didn't actually get to watch it (yet). But THANKS to McSwarley, an LA Kings ["nonsensical disquisition of a life-long los angeles kings fan"] blog, I was able to get some good scoop (and screen-caps) on the episode with the "Cupcake Wars Recap" (AND acquire another great blog resource when I'm needing Kings info - it's a pretty cool blog!).

The major disappointment is that the Food Network decided to cut out any of Greene’s usual comedic wit in favor of this guy making bad hockey puns that none of the contestants understood. Such as: “Cupcake making is lot like hockey except here there’s no penalty for icing.” There’s not really a penalty for icing in hockey, either.

My first question is, why haven't I done a WCH on Matt Greene??!!!! Ladies ... [mental note!] He WAS a WCH (one of our more popular posts, too) -- CLICK HERE TO READ!!! How adorable is HE (look at that dimple!)?!!!

Watch the episode below!!

Where My Ladies At?

2011-08-26T06:00:00.027-04:00

THESE ARE OUR STORIES

(How I Became a [Female] Hockey Fan)!

I've always been a Daddy's Girl. I can't remember how old I was when I started watching hockey with my Dad. Some of my earliest memories with my Dad are times we sat and watched the Kings. I even remember getting my Dad a poster of Wayne Gretzky for Father's Day for his Birthday one year. I'm pretty sure it said "The Great One" and had Gretzky standing next to a bunch of pucks or something. Then my little brother came along and turned out to be a pretty awesome goalie. Hockey became a thing my whole family could enjoy together. We would go to games and even got to meet a few of the Kings players once. A lot of my guy friends have given me a hard time in the past about being a fan of a losing team etc. but I could never stop. Not only have I grown to really love the team and the sport all on my own (I spent my 21st birthday at a Kings game and they won in the most exciting shoot out I've ever got to see!!), it will always ALWAYS remind me of the time spent with my Dad. I'm 24 now and while I know that's not old I'm still a Daddy's Girl and would never ever trade any time spent with my Dad for anything in the world. I love hockey for a million reasons but one of the top reasons is for being a part of the amazing relationship I get to have with my Dad. (The rest of my family too!)

-Meg

P.S. The hot guys helped me get interested a lot when I was in high school. My boyfriend now is a little jealous that I'd drop him in a second for Drew Doughty but he'll just have to live with that! :)

I think I've said it before, but I enjoy the stories that involve father-daughter relationships and how hockey played a role in helping them grow closer - it's a very special thing. THANKS, Meg, for sharing that with us!!

Don't forget, if you wish to submit your story, I kindly ask that you email them directly to me so they don't end up being repetitive for some of the readers. Also, if you don't want me to include your name, please let me know that as well (what I'll normally do is put your first name and last initial if I have it OR just your screen name).

thesteelcitysportsfan@gmail.com

If you haven't, you can READ MY STORY HERE
(how "yours truly" became a [female] hockey fan!)!!

2011-08-25T10:47:00.000-04:00

REASON #86

He FINALLY Spoke Out
(not any information, but at least he spoke - AND we know he's still around!)

Yesterday, Twitter (and I'm guessing most of the internet - I just got all of my info from Twitter) heated up again with Sidney Crosby talk. In fact (I think it's what may have started it to spark up again), Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Dejan Kovacevic posted an article of which JUST THE TITLE stirred the pot for some (and really got things heated) - "Kovacevic: Crosby's silence indefensible"

The majority of Pens nation was upset / angry about it and didn't agree with Kovacevic's opinion at all, BUT (IMO) IT DID make the Penguins organization take notice and must've urged Crosby to finally speak because the article that the Penguins webpage posted later yesterday evening in response, "Crosby Visits Leading Specialists," INCLUDED A QUOTE from none other than Crosby himself!

“I appreciate all the support I’ve received from my family, friends, teammates and fans and from the entire Penguins organization,” Crosby said. “I know they only want the best for my health, and for me to be fully ready when I return to game action.”

But there IS a positive twist to Sid's current 'story' which "The Globe and Mail" published around the same time the Penguins webpage article was posted. CLICK HERE if you want some "feel good" news about Crosby (and HERE if you want to read the post I wrote last night on it)!!

VIDEO: Kris Letang Training

2011-08-25T10:46:00.001-04:00

These videos are courtesy of the Adrenaline Performance Center in Montreal where Letang is currently getting ready for this upcoming season (all I have to say is "WOW!") ... the guy helping him train is the owner of the training center, Jonathan Chaimberg, who has this to say about Letang, "Also a big welcome to NHL all-star Kris Letang from the Pens. He's already a stud. After a summer of training he will be a monster." - haHA and is it ME or does that look like James Neal in the video with them (I think I'm going to think everyone in a Pirates cap is James Neal!)?!!

There is one more video (a short :48 seconds in length) ... CLICK HERE to view!! And ONE MORE HERE (THANKS Holyroller17!)!!

ENJOY THE VIDEOS, LADIES!! Please be sure to LMK what's on your mind!! ; )

Cooke "Throws" First Pitch at Altoona Curve Game

2011-08-25T10:40:00.001-04:00

Altoona, PA is home to the Altoona Curve and a little over 50 miles (45 minutes) away from where I live. Unfortunately I wasn't able to attend this game even though I had originally planned to, but luckily for me (and the blog), my friend Laura who lives near Altoona was there and kind enough to share her story and some pics!!

Hi HftL fans! I had a great opportunity Monday night to meet Matt Cooke, as he was doing an autograph session in my hometown during the AltoonaCurve game. I arrived at the ballpark at 6:00, ready to run to a spot in line. By the time, I got to the autograph line, I’d estimate there were about 900-1,000 people in front of me. The game started at 7:00 with Matt and his son Jackson throwing out the first pitch of the game by way of slapping a puck into a net.

Matt quickly made his way to his table to begin signing autographs for his scheduled 90-minute session. While waiting, I got out of line to go take pictures because I was afraid it would be dark by the time I got to the table, if I even got to the table at all due to the line.

As we were almost to the table, a security guy passed us and I asked if we would make it through the line considering Matt had already been signing for over 2 hours. The security guy replied, not to worry, that Matt had already agreed to sign for anyone who was in lineand waiting. He also said that he estimated there were about 1,500 people in line that night.

Finally, after a 3-hour wait, I made it to the table. Matt was so incredibly generous with his time, making sure to autograph each person’s item and pause to allow them to take pictures with him.

When the game ended a half an hour later, there was still a line of people waiting to get through to meet Matt. I’m not sure what time he finished autographing, but my best guess would be around 10:00 or even later.

Say what you want about him on the ice, but off the ice, he seems like a great,stand up guy!

Many thanks to Rob Eagan, the GM of the Altoona Curve, the rest of the Curve organization, and the Penguins organization to plan such a wonderful night for all of us fans in Altoona! Hopefully this opportunity will continue for many summers to come!

Cooke and his wife, Michelle
courtesy of Trib-Review

MANY THANKS to loyal follower, Laura H., for sharing her story and pictures with us!!

Also, for those of you who were unaware like I was, that Cookey's wife was seriously ill last season (and was near death), CLICK HERE to read Rob Rossi's article about his family's ordeal this past season around the same time he was going through the suspension ordeal for "illegal" hits.

Nick D'Agostino (Pittsburgh's 2008 Seventh Round Draft Pick) by Aubri Covol

2011-08-24T13:37:00.001-04:00

Aubri, a guest blogger who has previously written for HftL, has helped me out once again. The ECEC and WCH have been sparse these past few weeks, so I decided to use a guest post again today.

For those of you who are new to HftL and may not know Aubri, READ HER STORY HERE (and my interview with her HERE). And to read Aubri's previous post, CLICK HERE.

Sid and Aubri (LUCKY girl!)

BIGS THANKS to Aubri, for her most recent post which is about another one of the many up-and-coming hot, young guns in the Penguins organization - NICK D'AGOSTINO (see what you think, but I think he bares a little resemblance to our one and only captain, Sid!).

Most women love men with athletic skills, but usually that comes with the price of them having no brains to go with it. Well, this rising star is currently playing hockey at Cornell University and hopefully will be joining our Pittsburgh Penguins sometime soon.

Nick D’Agostino spent two season with St. Michael’s Buzzards of the OJHL, and in his first season there he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2008 in the seventh round. He was named the OJHL central division’s top defenseman. Along with being the top defenseman in his division, he was also honored by being chosen to represent team Canada East at the World Junior A challenge in 2008-2009, helping them to finish in third place.

In the 2009-2010 season, D’Agostino racked up a total of eighteen points (4 goals, 14 assists), and plus thirteen in his 32 games played. He continued that success into the 2010-2011 season racking up seventeen points (7 goals, 10 assists), but sunk in the plus/minus category ending up being a minus eleven.

Nick D’Agostino is not only a good looking hockey player, he is also is extremely smart getting an education at Cornell University. He has the entire package of being a smart, good looking, and an athlete. Everybody wishes you the best of luck in your upcoming season at Cornell and hope you can join the Penguins organization soon!

Crosby and Neal Pictures of the Week

2011-08-23T16:19:00.001-04:00

You know, I can't win with finding pictures of my guys (I found tons - I've been a little "PI" these past few days over the weekend)!! But when I find LOTS, that usually leaves me with the dilemma of whether or not to post them all or hold off so I can have a few more weeks of posts covered ...

BUT I think I'm going to use all of them because they're just too good of a find and I'm too excited about them!! So, moving on ...

Even though there haven't been many new pictures of Neal pop up until now, it really looks like he's been keeping himself pretty busy this summer ...

Does everyone know that he's on Twitter (@jneal_18)? It was THE talk for a while ... he went "live" on August 12th ... it IS legit (alot of the NHL players already on Twitter are following him and Talbot said so!)!! He's pretty Twitter-saavy already ... he posted a few pics (one below)!

On July 2, 2011, James was one of a handful of NHLers who were paired up with a pro-angler and took part in the annual Fish TV Celebrity Showdown. The charity fishing tournament raises money for the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation and was held in Palmer Park, Port Perry ON. I am LOVING the Pirates hat because I think it shows just how proud / enthusiastic he is to play for Pittsburgh (and that just TICKLES me pink!)!!

August 17th was "Last Rep NHL Day at the Farm" and James Neal attended that too!! Last Rep is a company that creates a training mix made from organic ingredients (that come from The Beretta Family Farm). And "NHL at the Farm" is when a bunch of NHL players get together at the farm to train, but the only notable one (for ME, anyway) is Nealy -- in his muscle shirt and AGAIN with the Pirates hat (he LOVES Pittsburgh, ladies!)!! UGH, this guy - can he get any more adorable??!!!!

Now on to my Sid ...

At the beginning of the month, SportChek started another contest involving Crosby (they also released some more amazing commercials which have also been making their rounds through the internet - do you know I have yet to watch one of them even though I've had plenty of emails about them?!! I'm TOO BUSY!)!!

Anyway, the contest is called "SportChek Sidney Crosby Road Trip" and to enter, you must write an essay about why you want to meet Sid. What do you win? This is an awesome prize package almost too good to be true (I mean, to me, meeting Sid would be plenty, but the rest AND THEN SIGNED JERSEYS - WOW!)!!

a meet and greet with Sidney Crosby
return airfare for 4 to Pittsburgh, PA
2 nights hotel accomodations
4 jerseys signed by Sidney Crosby
$500 CAD spending cash

CLICK HERE TO READ read the rules and regulations (and to ENTER the contest) AND THANKS TO HftL FOLLOWER, Chloe, FOR POINTING OUT THAT THIS CONTEST IS OPEN TO CANADIAN RESIDENT ONLY!!

Why am I telling you this? Because that's where the picture comes from, so I figured I'd also inform all of you of the awesome contest too (and I just threw in another one from REEBOK Sickick III for good measure - it may be old and you may have seen it before, but it's still a good one!)!! ; D

WHY, YES, I did save the best for last!!! : D Honestly, I don't think I need to say more, but I will ... I don't think I got up from off the floor and back into my chair for an hour or so after seeing this one (lost ALL consciousness!)!!! Have any of you already seen this one?! If not, SEE FOR YOURSELVES!!!

from photographer Chris Woods' website

I KNOW, I PROMISED ...

2011-08-23T14:33:00.000-04:00

And I WILL be delivering today's "Crosby and Neal Pictures of the Week!"

I had just a few more finishing touches on it and I've just been working non-stop from the time I got into work today, so I've had no time (until now, my lunch break) to make sure its just PERFECT! ; D

I really think it'll be worth the wait, ladies!! So STAY TUNED ...

It's A Girl ... Talbot Has A NEW Niece!

2011-08-23T00:30:00.000-04:00

From Talbot's Twitter (on Sunday, August 21st):

Talbot holding his niece, Jeanne

CONGRATULATIONS TO FRANK TALBOT, CATHERINE, MAX, AND THE ENTIRE TALBOT FAMILY!!

Taylor Lautner Is A Pirates Fan (In His New Movie, "Abduction")

2011-08-22T23:15:00.004-04:00

It's not directly hockey-related, but I saw it today and I felt like it was HftL-worthy!! And this can make up for no ECEC today (since I DO have pics for tomorrow!).

I'm a big fan of Taylor Lautner (I guess you could say I'm on Team Jacob!)!! I'm not as big of a fan of him as I am of hockey / hockey players, of course, but I told my friend she should definitely watch the Twilight movies just because Taylor "has a body fit for UA" or a.k.a. "UA-worthy" (UA = Under Armor -- and all you hockey and Twilight fans KNOW WHAT I'M TALKIN' ABOUT!)!!

I forgot what I was watching, but I caught a glimpse of Taylor today in his new movie "Abduction," which was filmed in Pittsburgh. He is rockin' a Pirates jersey (quite nicely!)!!

OH, and while searching for pics of him in the Pirates jersey, I found one of him at a hockey game (it just happened to be Game 7 of the 2009 Stanley Cup final WHEN THE PENS WON over the Wings!); unfortunately, he was cheering on the Red Wings since he was born in Grand Rapids (check out the jersey -- GOOD he's a hockey fan; NOT GOOD he's a Wings fan!)!!

NEW HftL tumblr Page Focused on NHL Wedding Pictures / Links!

2011-08-21T14:08:00.013-04:00

I've spent most of this weekend working on hockey player weddings and finding LOTS of great pictures and links which is how I came up with this latest idea.

There have just been so many beautiful wedding pictures of NHL players and their lovely brides / wives that I just wanted to share them with all of you (it was too emense of a project and I see it growing even bigger than just ONE, SINGLE post), so tumblr seemed to be the perfect solution!!

I haven't posted anything much yet (just an introductory post explaining pretty much the same thing I am now), so don't be disappointed if you visit these next couple of days - you're not missing much right now, but be sure to keeping checking it for tons of NHL wedding treasures!!!
I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I've been having fun finding the stuff and creating it!!

ENJOY, ladies!!!

HftL's NHL Weddings tumblr

CONFIRMED: Baby Staal #2 for Eric and Tanya ...

2011-08-20T12:17:00.004-04:00

UGH -- I FORGOT TO INCLUDE A "CONGRATS" DEF a beautiful family, so ...
CONGRATS TO THE [E] STAAL FAMILY (as well as Anthony Stewart, Mike Sundheim, and families!)!!!

THANKS to Lindsay, we can confirm the other "Canes babies" (also from Mike Sundheim's twitter --he happens to be ONE of the expecting daddies!)!!
For now, I can confirm Staal, Stewart & Sundheim babies arriving during 2011-12 season.

THANKS to a "tip" from HftL reader, Nikki, I found the following from Twitter (that's the greatest invention next to hockey and the hockey PLAYER!)!!!

From Mike Sundheim (Carolina's "PR guy"):

It's going to be another big year for Canes babies, including No. 2 for Eric & Tanya Staal, due in December.

Now just to figure out what other Canes are going to be baby daddies!!! LMK if you hear anything, ladies!!

I'm so glad that the "baby bump" was confirmed so I didn't have to look RUDE!!!
And now that I look closer, she does appear to have a pretty glow, doesn't she, ladies?!!

2011-08-18T08:24:00.001-04:00

REASON #85

He Can Cause a Commotion [on Twitter]

(without a single word or action!)
I HAD TO CLARIFY "on Twitter" BECAUSE WE ALREADY KNOW HE CAN DO THAT TO US FANS (i.e., yours truly!) WITH A SINGLE LOOK ; D

[UPDATE]
PLEASE BEAR WITH ME because I've said this plenty of times here before (and I'm sure I'll say it plenty more because it always gets my blood-pumping), but it's always an inspiration to me and ... you know, it's just Sid and the amazing player and person he is ... and every-single-time I hear Bonnie Tyler's "Holding Out For A Hero," I just think of him and how HE IS that song and how tragic it would be to lose him to this F'n concussion even though that's a realistic possibility ... BUT BEFORE I THINK NEGATIVE THOUGHTS LIKE THAT, I will shuffle to that song on my iPod or sing / hum it to myself in my head because we have four more weeks until this season starts getting "serious" and concern about whether or not Crosby will be playing (or when) will creep into our hockey-filled lives and I will BELIEVE that we will once again see Sid on the ice making those amazing plays and skating like a mad-man at CONSOL ... and I want all of you to believe that too ... download this song if you don't already have it and listen to it all day if you have to but let's send GOOD MOJO TO SIDNEY, LADIES ... DO IT!!!!!!

I'm certain, by now, you've all heard about the huge Crosby buzz on the internet earlier this week created by one, single Tweet. If you haven't, then let me explain (this will just be a review for those of us who are quite familiar [and, perhaps, tired of] the whole incident).

It was a typical Sunday evening (August 14th) until an unsuspecting Josh Rimer tweets the following:

Also hearing from 3 sources now that Sidney Crosby won't b ready 2 start season. I hope its not true because the NHL needs its best players!

Then, as you can imagine, ALL HELL BROKE LOOSE!!

That "simple," 140-max-character tweet was retweeted 100+ times by everyone and his brother including the most informed hockey / Pens writers (i.e., my man Rob Rossi - LOL) all across Twitter in a matter of minutes. In fact, it caused such a stir that Ray Shero himself had to schedule a media conference for the next day (and spoke to Rob Rossi who posted an article and blog post about it that same night) to calm the [Pens] masses. The poor guy (Mr. Rimer, NHL Home Ice Producer on SiriusXM Radio) soon learned that the shit hit the fan from the frenzy he inadvertently caused ... I'm sure his thought was simply to tweet information he obtained from THREE SOURCES probably just hoping for a few more followers, but ultimately it lead to an entire controversy which some fans are still talking over and debating about.

I find the funniest thing about this is that not one thing about this whole Crosby progress fiasco had / has changed from prior to this tweet until after (and since)! But because there hasn't been any real word on Crosby's progress up until this point (aside from that single, amateur video posted to YouTube of Crosby skating in Halifax) and everyone (both Pens faithful and Crosby-haters alike) has been waiting on baited breath for any news, a mountain was made into a mole hill.

But prior to this I was, as I'm sure many fans were, happy with just that video. There were no conclusions to be drawn and nothing open for debate; it was just a few minutes of Crosby skating on a rink and something for us to enjoy until the hockey season starts up again. It was neither positive or negative, but it was something and, in fact, it was at least a little more than what we had previously and it was (what all of this always has been since the moment he suffered his concussion) another step toward his return. I was happy to know that much for the moment and not too concerned with the upcoming season (or any thoughts of "what if").

Until that [now] infamous tweet ...

But even now, I'm happy with what I know because it never really changed (the possibilities were just brought to light just a little bit too soon).

So once again, I'll wait. I'll wait until pre-season comes around and the guys file back into Pittsburgh for the start of training camp and then I'll begin to wonder and, maybe, worry about how Crosby has progressed and what that means for his playing or not this season. I will also hold off on any rash judgements or needless panicking until then. And I would suggest the same for you (not only because it's less stressful but also because both Shero and Bylsma have said they are dealing with Crosby's progress similarly); and besides, look what it did for Mr. Josh Rimer.

But, come on, this just illustrates "the power of Sid" and what a huge impact he has on the entire hockey world, doesn't it?!!

[So take your time, Sid, but just get better - hockey isn't the same without you!]

It's A Girl!!

2011-08-16T23:22:00.000-04:00

THANKS to Liz S., for "the tip" on this news!

Mike Cammalleri and his girlfriend, Jennifer, became proud parents of a brand new baby girl over the weekend. I believe they named her Chloe, but that has yet to be confirmed. From Mike's twitter (and tell me his hash-tag isn't the most adorable thing ever!):

Thanks for the nice tweets. My girlfriend and I became proud parents this past weekend. We now have an amazing baby girl. #mynewbestfriend

CONGRATULATIONS TO MIKE AND JEN!!

Another Staal Down (Only Two to GO, Ladies!) - Marc is Hitched!!

2011-08-16T08:59:00.000-04:00

[THANKS go to Melissa A. for the "tip" on this one!!] This past weekend, Marc Staal and his longtime girlfriend, Lindsay, got married back in Thunder Bay. I didn't miss this one ... I was waiting on pics!! I think it was worth it!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO MARC AND LINDSAY!!

I DON'T say this to be rude, but do I see a "baby-bump" on Tanya??

That was the first thought in my head when I saw this pic!

Such a CUTE family!!

Hilary and Mike Celebrate One Year WITH A BABY!!

2011-08-14T15:34:00.000-04:00

This weekend Hilary Duff and Mike Comrie celebrated their one-year anniversary. She recently posted on her official blog, "First Anniversary Announcement" which includes THE ACTUAL ANNOUNCEMENT ...

"We also want to share the exciting news that .... BABY MAKES THREE! We are extremely happy and ready to start this new chapter of our lives."

CONGRATULATIONS TO HILARY AND MIKE!!!

Neal Pictures of the Week (Ontario Autograph Session Edition)

2011-08-09T06:00:00.052-04:00

This week's pictures are fairly "NEW" and courtesy of Sarah W., my new friend I found on tumblr (because we have similar interests in Mr. Neal!)!

Not only did she post a few great pictures of Nealy (below), but she was kind enough to share her story of how she met (and got her picture taken with) James at a recent signing:

James Neal did a signing at AJ Sports World in Vaughan, Ontario on July 26th, 2011. I had heard about it on Tumblr from another Penguins fan I was following.

I arrived at the store an hour and a half early, expecting there to be a huge line up. But I was the only person in the store. My Dad and I had to buy some things for James to sign, so we didn't mind being too early or the only one's there. I bought a James Neal jersey and puck for him to sign. The only problem was that they didn't have any jersey's in the store that I could have right that very moment. So I ordered one that would come in about a week, and they have me the number 8 (out of his number 18) for him to sign.

As I was in the office in the back filling out the form, James Neal walked in with a smile and greeted me and the store owner. Of course, I was freaking out internally, but the owner escorted James to the back where he would wait until the actual signing started. As I walked out of the office and out to my Dad and one of the workers, my Dad said "Sarah, do you realize who that was!?". Good to know my Dad was freaking out more than me.

I stood at the very front of the line as people began to walk in and stand behind me. As time went by I got to talking to the man behind me. He had driven all the way up from Pittsburgh to meet James! He told me that players don't do a lot of public signings in Pittsburgh, especially players like Crosby, Malkin, Fleury and Staal (even though Staal was in AJ Sports in February doing a signing). So, I knew this was worth it.

When 6:30 came around, James walked out in a black t-shirt and jeans wearing a huge smile on his face. He was blushing as he sat down with a employee of the store. Being the very first person to be in line, I walked up to the table and put the number 8 and the puck on the table and gave the yellow tickets to the employee. He attempted to sign the number first, but had difficulty trying to figure out what side of the number to sign. He seemed almost embarrassed, but it was cute. When he finished signing everything, I asked for a picture. He replied with "absolutely" and he jumped to his feet. I put my arm around his back and put my hand on his shoulder. Let me tell you, he has very strong and muscular arms, and to boot he smells amazing.

Corey Perry also did a signing that day (right after James) and when Corey walked in, he wasn't nice like James. He wore sunglasses and didn't greet anyone like James did. It's obvious that he hasn't let his success get to his head, which is refreshing. James Neal is honestly one of the nicest guys I have ever met, and I am very honoured that I got the opportunity to meet him.

Nealy smells amazing ... that just makes my day (he looks like he would!)!! I can only hope to be lucky enough to smell him one day - LOL!! ; P

THANKS for sharing your story and the pics, Sarah (you're so lucky to have met James Neal!)!!

This is an AWESOME picture (he's so darn cute!)!

J. Staal In Action this Off-Season

2011-08-09T05:59:00.028-04:00

OH ... MY ... GOD!!! [this is so delicious that the words need to be spelled out instead of abbreviated!!]

Have you ladies seen this video?? If not, you MUST especially all the Staalsy-lovers out there!!! Needless to say that I was distracted for a few minutes from reading the actual article that went with this video (and he's not even my favorite, but Lord HELP ME, he IS a hockey player and a good-looking one at that!)!!

There's really no need to further elaborate, so I'll just let you ladies ENJOY IT FOR YOURSELVES!!! [is that a black SHOE off to the left in the picture above? PRETTY LARGE shoe!]

2011-12 Penguins Ice Crew Members

2011-08-08T14:03:00.001-04:00

This post is not really to announce the members of this season's Ice Crew, but rather, a RANT (I'll try to make it short!) ...

Once again the female fans are left out ... don't you think WE want to see the male members of the crew just like the guys want to see the female members of the crew (WTF?!)?!! They had a hard enough time getting us females sold on the whole idea to begin with, but now that we've slightly warmed to the idea, they go and do this crap!!

When the women crew members were announced last week, there was a whole bouquet of stimulation for the [male] eye ... a nice group photo of the female crew (with their numbers stategically pinned on their boobs above an eyeful of belly-button - most absent of a ring; you'll have to click on the link above to see it because there won't be any of that here) and even a video (for craps sake, there was a separate video for each of four girls!), but do we females get that when they announce the men? Of course not ... NO video, no pictures, no anything ... just words of a long-ass article (did I read it? YES - I'm not that shallow!)!! But, for some reason, that's the very first thing that struck me about the announcement - NO PICS / VIDEO (because it was the reason I clicked on the link ... TO SEE THE PICTURES!)!! Although, something tells me I'm not missing much because, if I remember correctly, they weren't all that much to look at - I'd much rather spend my time looking at hockey players!!!!

And so began my rant just as, now, it ends! This really isn't a way to sell us females on the whole ice crew business (not really going to make fans out of us that way!)!!

Any other ladies have any thoughts on this?? I'd really be interested in hearing your thoughts to see if I'm the only one who feels this way!

[WATCH ... by the time I post this, they'll have added both pictures and a video or two!]

Eastern Conference Eye Candy: Johnny Oduya (Winnipeg Jets)

2011-08-08T11:10:00.000-04:00

HOCKEY FACTOR
Johnny Oduya has the honor of being OUR FIRST (of MANY, I'm sure!) Winnipeg Jet ECEC (GO Jets!)!

Oduya is considered a "defensive defenseman" and he's hard-hitting on the blue line, but isn't flashy. He's great for the team inside the locker room.

He first played organized [professional] hockey in his hometown of Stockholm, Sweden for the Hammarby IF Hockey playing as a junior (as of 2008, the club no longer exists due to financial difficulties). In 2000, he moved to the US to join the QMJHL (Quebec Major Junior Hockey League) dividing his time between two teams - Victoriaville Tigres and Moncton Wildcats - for a single season before returning to Stockholm (2000-01) to play two more seasons with the Hammarby IF Hockey (2001-02, 2002-03). In the 2003-04 season, he signed on with Djurgårdens IF Hockey which was part of the Swedish Elitserien (Elite league).

During this time, he became the 25th pick of the Washington Capitals in the 7th round of the 2001 NHL Entry draft (221st overall). Prior to the 2005-06 season, the Capitals released Oduya so he returned to the Elite league joining the Frölunda Hockey Club (also known as the Frölunda Indians) back in Sweden.

On July 17, 2006, he was signed as a free agent by the New Jersey Devils making his NHL debut in the season opener on October 6, 2006 against the Carolina Hurricanes (at Carolina). Scored his first NHL goal on December 19, 2006 against the Atlanta Thrashers. He also played in his 300th career NHL game on April 10, 2010 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. He was a role player among New Jersey's core and helped them to maintain a consistent level of play.

After four seasons with the Devils (2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09, 2009-10), Oduya was traded to the Atlanta Thrashers (who no longer exist and have been replaced by the Winnipeg Jets) where he has played for two seasons (2009-10, 2010-11). This past season, he played in all 81 games for the Thrashers and ranked second on the team with 149 blocked shots and fourth in average ice time with 20:47.

Oduya also has some experience with international play. He was on Teams Sweden for both the 2009 World Championship and 2010 Olympics.

HOTNESS FACTOR

Johnny has a diverse family background with his father, George, being from Kenya and his mother, Birgitta, being Swedish. This makes him one of a small number of African American players in the NHL (past and present).

He has an older brother, Fredrik, who also plays hockey and was drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the 1993 NHL Entry draft (154th overall); he was eventually traded to the Calgary Flames in 1999, but never actually played in the NHL (a back injury forced him to retired in 2000).

His full given name is David Johnny Oduya and his nickname is "Johnny O."

His first job was at the age 16 landscaping at a cemetary.

What's on his iPod? He says there's not many songs, "The most that I have on there is '90's hip hop, a little bit of '80's stuff and some dance music from Europe." What famous actress would he date? Jessica Biel. And what are his favorite websites? "My homepage is a Swedish news Web site because that is my Swedish update. I also like YouTube because you can find anything on there." To read more like this on Johnny, visit "Chillin' with ... Johnny Oduya" on nhl.com.

FAVORITES:
Movie - "The Jury"
TV Show - "Entourage"

That's one BEAUTIFUL MAN right there!!

Information found in this post obtained from the following sites:

Johnny Oduya's Winnipeg Jets Player Profile page
Johnny Oduya's New Jersey Devils Player Profile page
Johnny Oduya Wikipedia
Chillin' with ... Johnny Oduya

Another Year of Being PERFECT ... Happy Birthday, Sid!!

2011-08-07T12:21:00.002-04:00

Here's hoping you're "good as new" come hockey season!!

Are YOU celebrating Sid's birthday today or commemorating the day by doing something special in honor of him??? If so, I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU (pictures are always GOOD!)!!

Add Tomáš Plekanec to the List of Uneligible Hockey Players

2011-08-01T13:02:00.000-04:00

THANKS to loyal HftL follower, Susanne, who emailed me links to articles confirming that Tomáš Plekanec of the Montreal Canadiens was recently married to popular Czech singer and actress, Lucie Vondráčková, back in June (CLICK HERE ofr a look at more wedding photos) and the happy couple are now expecting their first child (due in January 2012)!

DOUBLE CONGRATULATIONS TO TOMÁŠ AND LUCIE!!

It's A Girl!!

2011-07-29T08:25:00.022-04:00

THANKS to HftL follower, Holyroller17, for "the tip" on this news!

Oskar with his son, Martin

From the Flyers official Twitter account (@NHLFlyers):

Congrats to #Flyers (D) Oskars Bartulis & his wife Elina who became proud parents to a new baby girl yesterday, they've named her Laura.

Oskar and Elina were married back on July 3, 2009, three months after Elina gave birth to the couple's first child, Martin (who is now a "big brother" to Laura).

CONGRATULATIONS TO OSKARS, ELINA, MARTIN, AND THE ENTIRE BARTULIS FAMILY!!

Are You Trying to Kill Us, Mike Kadar?

2011-07-28T12:57:00.002-04:00

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE (Part 5)

Yet ANOTHER video of Malkin training ... this time he's using weights ("strong like bull!"). And here's a little something I quickly researched after taking notice of a few things (after I stopped looking at his butt - LOL!):

If you notice (see pic below), the orange weight is 25 kg (USA) and 25 kilograms = 55.1155655 pounds. I cannot make out what the black weight is, but I think I can make out a "0" ("zero") and I do think I see "USA" and since it appears smaller than the orange one let's just say for argument's sake it's 10 kg. And 10 kilograms = 22.0462262 pounds.

So that would mean that Malkin is working with A WHOPPING TOTAL OF ABOUT 154.34 POUNDS OF WEIGHT!!!!

But wait ... I think I may have forgot to include the weight of the bar (I do know a little something about lifting weights from my husband, but don't let that fool you - neither one of us are dedicated to working out!)! I checked on this before adding it to the post and it said that you DO include the weight of the bar and that the weight of the average bar is 45 pounds, so ...

THAT WOULD BE NEARLY 200 POUNDS RIGHT THERE!!! So now I'm even more impressed!!!

I guess I could, in fact, be displaying my ignorance right now, but to me, that's alot of weight!!! And here's another thing to think about, right now he's listed as 195 pounds on the Penguins webpage so that would mean he's working with ~~almost 80%~~ nearly 100% of his body weight ... still sounds like a lot to me, but then again walking is the only form of exercise / activity this lady does right here!!! PLUS, he is an athlete so I guess I shouldn't be too surprised (or impressed?)!!!! But I am (it's SEXY!)!! Yet another sexy thing about hockey players!!! ; )

IDK, ladies, what are your thoughts??? Feel free to post them!! : ) OH, and I included the second pic (OF HIS BUTT) simply for "shits and giggles!" ENJOY!!!

July is Letang's Month!!

2011-07-28T10:36:00.000-04:00

WHAT A COINCIDENCE!!

I realize July is practically over, but I just noticed (after all those delicious vacation pictures of him) ...

LOOK WHO'S MR. JULY IN MY PENS CALENDAR!!!

2011-07-28T09:21:00.002-04:00

REASON #84

He Looks Like He Hasn't Missed a Beat
(and can pass himself / catch pucks through chair legs!)

I mentioned this video on here yesterday, but I posted it on my Penguins blog shortly after it began causing a stir on the internet (Tuesday). A TON OF THANKS goes out to CullensVids1 for posting the video on YouTube and allowing all of us fans to have great hope for Crosby's return!

This video is nothing less than INSPIRING (and I wouldn't expect any less from Sid!)!! The guy is amazing. He's skating like he never suffered from a horrible concussion that took him off the ice for half the season ... just like he never left the ice at all!!

This gives me great hope for next season and seeing him back on the ice (I HAVE CHILLS!)!!

He's all heart, he loves hockey, he IS hockey, and that's why he's the greatest player of this generation! YEAH ... I SAID IT (and why I created these posts on this blog - there's SO MANY reasons to love him!)!!!

PART 4? YESSSSSSS!!! From Russia With Love (Part 4)

2011-07-27T15:52:00.002-04:00

HE'S BACK ON THE ICE AGAIN!!

How ADORABLE is Geno?!!!!! And HOW LUCKY is Mike Kadar getting to travel to Russia and help Malkin train?!!!! YOU ROCK, Kadar (THANKS for the great video!)!!

IF ONLY I KNEW THEN WHAT I KNOW NOW, I would do it so differently and gone to college to do something in sports medicine and work with my beloved Pens ... hmmmm, I DO have a BS degree in Biology, so maybe I should consider returning to focus on that ... HUH!

And is it just me or does it look as though Geno wants to give Sid a "run for his money" on the skating thing (maybe he saw the video of Sid practicing last week on YouTube too - CLICK HERE AND YOU CAN SEE IT TOO, if you haven't already!)!!

ENJOY, ladies!!!

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE (Part 4)