hot oil

5 years later, #Stilloilfans

2011-04-03T00:39:00.005-04:00

A lot has changed in the past five years.

The Oilers are no longer that team that got to game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final. Two players remain from that team (unless you count JF Jacques who did draw in for a handful of games during the 2005-06 season) and both are currently injured.

I'm no longer that new-to-Vancouver waitress making my way back to school. Two years of broadcast school and I'm a news anchor in a major market. I talk little about my favourite team, having to fake enthusiasm and hide my disgust for the Canucks on a daily basis.

Hot Oil is not much more than memories of Ulanov, Roloson, and of course, my Marty.

But tonight, as the worst team in the league, beat the best team... I was proud once again. (The Canucks in the number 1 spot is also troubling, but I remember what position the Oilers were in when they made it all the way in 2006.)

I haven't watched a lot of games this season. In fact, the Oilers are probably 50-50 when I tune in. Maybe I should have tuned in more often.

Despite the bad moves over the last five years, my dissatisfaction with the people of Edmonton being forced into paying for an arena, and the piss poor results we've seen since the cup run - I'm still an Oilers fan.

Next Sunday, Oiler fans in Vancouver are getting together to mark the final game of the season.

From the Facebook event:

Wanted: Displaced Oilers fans in need of friendly faces.

The last game of a long season is almost upon us. You've been suffering alone long enough - mosey on down to the Black Frog as YOUR Edmonton Oilers end their season against the Avs and spend a Sunday with people who get you.

Black Frog opens at 11:30. Game starts at noon.

Be there or be square.

Tweeting not required, though encouraged. (#stilloilfans is the hashtag. Use it. A lot.)

If you just feel like getting tipsy on a Sunday, feel free to stop by, but no mocking or jerky comments about the season, the Oilers or Edmonton.

Tell your friends!

(Really, tell your friends, we'd love to have a full house, just like we did at the Frog, 5 years ago.)

The Oilers have a lot of things to be thankful for, including a storied history, a relatively recent cup run and a lot of good young players. The end of this season has been painful, not because of all the losses, but because we're not part of the run. Battling for 8th is a lot of fun. I don't need a Stanley Cup to enjoy my team. I just don't want one in the hands of the Canucks or Flames.

(I'd say the Leafs too, but c'mon.)

Happy Halloilerween!

2009-10-29T23:15:00.002-04:00

Without fail the Oilers come up with something hilarious every Halloween.. remember when Horc went as Gene Principe a few years back?

This year is equally as good.

By the way, I <3 Smid, even if he has Hamthrax.

Yowzers!

2009-10-09T20:20:00.003-04:00

Do we need to have a hot off this year? I think I know who the three finalists will be.

The picture is from ESPN's body issue that came out today.

#BarfOilers

2009-09-10T21:44:00.002-04:00

I'm on twitter. I think my updates are over on the side there ->

When I saw the news of Mike Comrie's return to Edmonton, I found every funny tweet regarding the move and re-tweeted it with the tag, #BarfOilers.

Okay, I know the money is good. I know that he's probably done a lot of growing up since he left town. I know that on rare occasion, I carry a grudge. I'm looking at you, Jamie Langenbrunner.

I don't have a huge problem with Mike Comrie. That was eclipsed by the CFP incident. But what this indicates is a disconnect with management.

Bringing in Mighty Mouse doesn't move this team forward. It may prevent us from falling backwards due to the overwhelming lack of guys who can play centre. But that's not good enough. So, in the face of having a team that not just fails to make the playoffs but fails to compete, I feel we're just not gaining ground.

I feel like I should warn Hilary Duff (who I'm psyched to see on Gossip Girl this fall). Once you get the city on your side, we've got your back. But this is a town that doesn't forget. That Rich Boy on your arm, he hurt us last time around. 30 games, sitting out, and for what?

By all accounts, Duff was a fan favourite in Ottawa, where she made regular appearance watching games, often with regular fans, unlike Carrie Underwood who hid from the public.

I wish I could say the prodigal son has returned home to bring prosperity to the Oilers family. But I'm afraid he's just not enough. And his return shows the dire state this team is in.

How to cover the Canucks without shooting myself

2009-04-22T14:54:00.004-04:00

Some of you may know that I work as a news reporter in Vancouver... My shifts are evenings and weekends - prime timing for Canucks games. Unlike the sports reporters, I don't get to go to games and hear cliched answers from dreamy eyes Taylor Pyatt. During this playoff run, I get to talk to the fans. Not only do I have to go live from some sports bar every half hour all evening, I have to talk with Canucks fans at their worst. Drunken.

Part of me was happy to hear of the Canucks' sweep last night - otherwise this Friday night I would've spent my evening dealing with fans who would argue this is the best team hockey has ever seen. In 2006, every round the Oilers won, I expected it to be the last. Yet Canucks fans believe the cup is already en route.

I'll give the Canucks credit. It's a good *TEAM*. Before this round started I figured they'd do some damage in the playoffs. I don't want them to, and am praying for them to lose the next four as quickly as they swept through the the first round.

I don't want to go to another bar. I am trying to come up with ideas for how to cover a Canucks game from the fan perspective... I already did families/children. I wanted to pitch an idea where I search the city for the elusive St.Louis fan. Where should I go next?

Goodbye Silver Fox

2009-04-16T03:32:00.004-04:00

Walter & Craig MacTavish, Salvation Army Skybox
Originally uploaded by ron_zima

I like Craig MacTavish. I think he's a good coach who will find work elsewhere. I think his time here was done but there were some really fine moments. I wish him all the best elsewhere. It is, on some level, unfortunate that the Oilers will no longer have the hottest coach. But I digress...

I watched Tambellini's presser today and was pleased by a lot of the things he said. Sure, he's all practiced up and knows the right thing to say but what stuck with me is the fact that he did not absolve the players of their craptastic play this season. Regardless of the holes I know this team had, regardless of the coach that may have lost the room, this team underachieved.

Subpar Oilers teams have made the playoffs before, clawing their way in like the St.Louis Blues did, only to lose in the first round. (Which I anticipate will happen for them too.)

Those are the Oilers teams I miss. The ones that may have lacked skill but worked like dogs.. or like the underdogs they were.

I'm hopeful more changes are made. I'm hopeful this is the end of hiring the old boys club. I'm hopeful this team can move in the right direction.

I'm hopeful.

...and I'll miss MacT.

(my other blog has thoughts on jumping on the Canucks bandwagon)

5 games left: My pre-emptive look at a failed season.

2009-04-02T12:28:00.003-04:00

Like Lowetide, I'm not putting all of the blame on MacT for what happened this season. Should he quit or be fired at the season's end? Yes. He made some dangerous gambles (from position shifting to the stick call) but had any of them worked out, we could still be talking about post season chances (which are now at 8% and require the Oil to pretty much win-out the season). I commend him for trying things that other coaches wouldn't have attempted, but maybe he shouldn't have been put in particular situations by management.

In the off-season, the Oilers lost Stoll in the Lubo trade (I <3 Lubo), and Reasoner (a million dollar man) for free. Both could win faceoffs and kill penalties. No one was brought in to replace either. PK has gone from 5th to 27th. Stoll (now at 57%!) and Reasoner (53%) continue to win faceoffs for their respective teams and instead we see Shawn Horcoff taking all faceoffs. Seriously. He's done an admirable job at 54%, taking more than anyone else in the LEAGUE. Hot Rodz also is above 50% but just barely. I think the heavy reliance on Horcoff has been another factor in the mediocrity of the team. Dude is tired.

Horcoff fills the role of the top line centre on the Oilers. Would he do that on other teams? Very few. He's what I would call a "very good roleplayer". Hardworking, able to do a lot of things right, but not going to many (if any) all-star games. And he has been worked this year - leading Oilers forwards with 21:31 in ATOI per game. Yet his production will be around 50 points on the season.

The Oilers have enough skill to roll four lines, the problem with the skill is that it comes in small packages. Don't get me wrong, from what I've seen of Patrick O'Sullivan, I really like. And Liam Reddox plays much bigger than his frame would indicate. But the JFJ/Stortini's of the Oilers feel pretty one-dimensional right now in that they are AHL players in big bodies. The guys who legitimately have NHL skills tend to be small. Sure, Dustin Penner was brought in for his size and the numbers guys tell me he's still excelling, but he's hard to watch. His shuffle through the lineup and into the pressbox gives me the indication MacT wants to use him, but the team makeup isn't right.

That's the biggest issue that I can gather... a disconnect from the top to the front line. I commend the moves made to get the defensive corps that we have and while I'd rather see Strudwick take a 7th man role and Staios be 4 years younger, those are small issues when the team is just not clicking.

I listen to a lot of games and only see a few, but even the play-by-play seems to indicate a disconnect. Are there issues in the room? Is it the right mix of personalities? Or is everyone just really frustrated? I know I am.

The nail in the coffin was the recent "cheer for us, fans" video. Outside of Strudwick who had a certain charm to him and Grebs who just seemed sincere, it was awful. Awkward and not heartfelt speeches from Horcoff, Gilbert and Gagner. If you're trying to make us care (and most of us wouldn't be watching stupid videos on the Oilers website if we didn't already) you're just making a fool of us. We want to cheer. That's what makes the video so sad. Give us a reason to support the team because we're not going to accept losing. For the amount of money we pay to the organization, for the amount of money the players are taking home, they should be grateful we're still here despite some pathetic efforts as of late - when it matters most.

How about instead of doing it for the fans, do it for Dwayne Roloson? The man has kept the Oilers in almost every game in the second half of the season. It's so frustrating to listen to games where he is averaging nearly 40 saves yet the Oilers can't even forecheck.

This isn't going to be just a failed season, but one of the most frustrating I've dealt with as a fan. And it's not just because I'm stuck in Vancouver watching a team win games based on effort, good goaltending and performances from unlikely sources. It actually reminds me of a certain Oilers team in 2006.

Le Sigh.

Laddy Smid: What's to like?

2009-03-24T18:20:00.003-04:00

I was surprised to see that Ladislav Smid is a popular guy, even just among the dozen replies I got to my question. He was on more lists than anyone else, getting more points (based on my 5,4,3,2,1 system) than anyone else and averaging a placement of 3rd on everyone's lists.

What is it about Smid that we like?

His three goals ever in the NHL?
The fact that he's been thrown in as a winger this season?
His original nickname?

You tell me!

P.S. The rest of the voted top five would be Gagner, Horcoff, Lubo, and O'Sullivan.

Who are your favourite three current Oilers?

2009-03-22T13:10:00.005-04:00

I was thinking about this when Marty was recently in town... who is left for me to cheer for? Reasoner is long gone and not coming back. I had a soft spot for the Thoresens, the Hejdas...

Who are my top three now?

1. I <3 Lubo
2. Patty O'Sullivan (Number 19 lives on)
3. Pantsani

Now, I realize these pics go against my usual form of "underdogs" so I'll add honourable mentions to Liam "The Lion" Reddox and Laddy Smid.

Hell, just make it a top 5!

How about you? Even though this is Hot Oil, I'm not talking looks. Vote in the comments!

Hot Damn. 8-1!

2009-03-20T16:16:00.003-04:00

Oh snap.

2009-03-13T00:31:00.002-04:00

Just scroll to the last 20 seconds.

Guess what today is?

2009-03-12T13:28:00.005-04:00

My boy is back in town! (Not Smyth, though his appearance in that picture is great.)

Sure, I'm not, but still..

Am I the only one who misses his clips? Just look at some of the stuff in this recent Jim Matheson story:

When Atlanta centre Marty Reasoner signed with the Thrashers last summer, he held onto his house here, but not because he was hoping his old club might get him back at the trade deadline.

"I'm looking to sell ... tell anybody who wants to buy, I'll give them two tickets to the game (today)," joked the former Edmonton Oilers forward. "I'd like to close on it before the game starts." Reasoner, who is having a very good season in Atlanta -- 23 points, plus- nine on a team solidly minus -- will be wearing a Thrashers sweater tonight and may also have brought a cardigan on the road. He did check the weather here before he checked his bags. When he found out it was sunny, but frosty, he shrugged. "All these years I spent in Edmonton, I never could figure out what they meant when they said, 'You know it's cold, but, hey, it's a dry cold,' '' said Reasoner.

Reasoner's sense of humour, not to mention his work in the faceoff circle and killing penalties, left a hole the Oilers haven't been able to fill this season.

Reasoner and Matt Greene were the dry wits in the dressing room.

"Geez, I'd rather they miss me as a player on the ice, rather than off it," he said.

Sigh.

Maybe I do wish he'd been traded to the Canucks?

O'Sullivan and Kotalik: Reasons to not talk about Marty

2009-03-05T03:16:00.002-05:00

I spent several hours glued to my computer today. Despite my Marty Watch, I was more intent on seeing what the Oilers would do. It would take until the final moment, long past the final minute, for something to come through.

Lets start with the negatives:
1. We become a bit smaller, a bit less gritty.
2. Erik Cole seems like a classy dude.

And the positives?
1. This is likely a wash: 20 games of Cole becomes 20 games of Kotalik
2. A 2nd or 5th round pick (depending on where I read) becomes Patrick O'Sullivan.
3. Both of these guys are hotter than Cole. Sorry Cole.

If you aren't familiar with the story of Patrick O'Sullivan, read it. You can't help but want him to succeed.

He's also the key to this whole thing and I commend Tambellini for working this deal out. The more I read about the numbers.. he's a shooter, he's still young, he might be small but he puts up a hit a game...

I really want it to work out.

I really just wanted to write about O'Sullivan. But Kotalik is here too, so, enjoy!

Marty Reasoner Watch: 24 hours to the deadline

2009-03-03T13:28:00.004-05:00

From Sports Illustrated's Darren Eliot:

Blackhawks

This fun, fast, young bunch out of the Windy City is "ahead of schedule" according to GM Dale Tallon in terms of rebuilding. They will get much-needed experience with this spring's appearance, putting them in the same category as the Bruins, Caps and Flyers from last year -- rising teams that made the playoffs and used that to accelerate the maturity process. The Blackhawks need a centerman with some grit who can win faceoffs -- an area in which they've struggled all season. Players such as Dominic Moore or Marty Reasoner make sense here.

Canucks

GM Mike Gillis played his hand early by bringing Mats Sundin into the mix. At this point, with goaltender Roberto Luongo rounding into form, tweaking is probably the course of action come Wednesday. Players already mentioned -- Kuba on the blueline and Reasoner up front -- are of the ilk Gillis is likely to target.

From Globe and Mail:

Meanwhile, Atlanta still has some depth forwards to peddle before they become unrestricted free agents.

Centre Marty Reasoner has 10 goals and is on pace for a career high. He wins face-offs and is plus-nine on an awful team. Eric Perrin can play all three forwards positions and, like Reasoner, he kills penalties. Perrin wants out of Atlanta, according to the Journal-Constitution.

I'll update today as I find stuff.

Loxy out.

Where does my man go?

2009-03-02T21:12:00.002-05:00

Marty Reasoner won't likely be an Atlanta Thrasher after the trade deadline. He's a UFA at the end of the season and is a good depth guy who can win faceoffs and kill penalties. He's also my favourite player.

Duh.

Anyways, a friend of mine mentioned the potential of him coming to Vancouver. If I watch that happen on Wednesday, I will have no idea what to do.

None.

Wanna know how I feel about tonight's game?

2009-02-27T03:10:00.001-05:00

Breaking NEWS: Marty Reasoner reads

2009-02-15T13:51:00.002-05:00

From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution:

Reader and movie watcher Marty Reasoner flew a lot last season when he played for Edmonton, a long way from other NHL cities. The Oilers took two two-week road trips and two one-week road trips every year.

I get too stressed watching or listening to Oilers games this season to write anything... but I'm just letting you know I'm still here.

It's like a shout out

2009-02-01T13:38:00.002-05:00

I never feel good about Sunday afternoon games. I'm sure there is probably a statistical explanation for this, but hot oil isn't the place for real depth game coverage.

Things I'm hoping for this game:

1. Roli plays decently. In other words, he stops 9 out of 10 shots. He shakes off his helmet at least once. He gives out a few hits with his blocker. I don't like when Roli gets TOO much on a roll, things fall apart after that. I just want "good enough" right now.

2. A good effort. I don't think it's much to ask of a team to put in the effort that they are paid to give. Too often this Oiler team is up and down. Just some sustained roll would be nice.

3. Ethan Moreau doesn't try too much. I'm scared he's starting to think he's an all-around player. Just don't take the stupid penalties and I'll be happy with just your pretty face.

Off to cover a Chinese New Year parade. Hopefully I can catch some of the online banter in the comments at Lowetide later.

Goilerz!

Clap clap!

Not Hot

2009-01-28T21:40:00.003-05:00

I didn't watch last night's game.
I didn't watch any of the replays.
I didn't even find out the final score.

But if it happens again, no one comes out hot.

All Star Festivities

2009-01-24T21:22:00.002-05:00

I'm trying to watch but I'm quickly falling asleep. Right now, it's the shootout competition (not the fancy one where Ovechkin put on a hat) but the straight-forward one. It's down to Hejduk, Doan and Savard. It entertains me as long as I'm on my computer doing other things.

Update: Down to Doan and Savard.

Earlier I watched Cogliano win the fastest skater. That was fun, for the 3 minutes it lasted. Oh, and I missed the hardest shot. Souray came third. The TV may have been on, but I don't remember watching. (That's how exciting this stuff is)

Update: Shane Doan wins.

Random fact: Shane Doan and Carey Price are cousins.

I've been reading a lot about how to make the NHL All Star game better. The best suggestion would be to have it in a tropical location. While I realize there's an interest in having it in NHL cities so that fans can meet the players, but the guys are going to be more hyped if it's like a holiday. (Though, for me, Montreal is a place I would holiday, but I'm not an NHL player.)

Anyways, on my other blog I'm gonna do an NHL themed Marry Boff Kill. Enjoy!

Oh, and what are the rest of the oilers doing right now?

The Clip

2009-01-19T12:40:00.000-05:00

Thanks Andy!

Did anyone see the locker room interviews tonight?

2009-01-18T23:50:00.001-05:00

Surreal.

Welcome to left field.

2009-01-17T11:24:00.004-05:00

Au revoir, Mathieu Garon. I'm still not sure that this isn't a hallucination resulting from my hangover. Saturdays aren't just for cartoons anymore, Oilers fans.

GOCANADA!

2009-01-06T18:59:00.003-05:00

Hey there! I hope you all had a great holiday! I just thought I'd put up a quick post to congratulate Team Canada on their 5th straight gold medal at the IIHF Juniors -- especially the Oilers' own Jordan Eberle, who had an amazing tournament. And who is also hot . Nice work, fellas!

You vo-eted for Lubo!

2008-12-25T02:55:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Lubomir Visnovsky, 2008 Hot Off Hot Oiler!

(with the first part of his prize)

Happy Holidays!!

(watch this video and fall in love with Lubo all over again)

Your finalists

2008-12-24T00:40:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

REMEMBER TO VOTE IN THE SIDEBAR.

You have until Christmas to vote ->

2008-12-22T13:56:00.003-05:00

Some reasons to vo-et!
For Lubo:

Oh Lu Visnovsky, you are the love of my life!
Oh Lu Visnovsky, I'd let you shag my wife!
Oh Lu Visnovsky, I wish I were as hairy as yooooou!

He plays hockey the way 7 year olds play, puck pursuit all the way. It's fun.

...bringing care packages to his old teammates is just an ever so thoughtful thing to do. He'd definitely call you after, anyway.. :)

For Shelly:

....because I know that's who my mom would vote for.

Sheldon Souray is mantastic. I want to vote for him. There is not competition as far as I'm concerned.

The Edmonton Oilers are kicking Loxy out of the press box for exceeding the shirtless-Souray quotient.

It's a Christmas Miracle!

2008-12-22T00:36:00.003-05:00

There will be a new winner of the hot-off this year. He's got a big contract, he's not a longterm Oiler, he plays defence and produces more points than most of our players.

But is it Sheldon Souray or Lubomir Visnovsky ?

I'll be posting pictures until Christmas day when the winner is announced. I want official votes, so we'll be going with the poll on the right side bar.

This one is for all the marbles.

Parting thoughts for Scarneck can be left below.

Someone needs to go.

2008-12-19T12:41:00.004-05:00

In order to determine the final two I will get you to rank the three men and the guy with the lowest total gets cut. (First gets 2 pts, Second gets 1 points, Third gets no points)

Last time I got all creative on your asses, but I'm sick as a dog, so I'm just going to ask you to please vote in the comments.

Thank you.

The tribe has spoken.

2008-12-16T12:42:00.003-05:00

Hemsky, Souray and Lubo.

There's your top three.

Now if I can get a bit editorial on your asses, I think the lack of eliminating Hemsky when y'all had the chance means he'll take this thing. Yes, this past round was a cleverly created rouse to get rid of the kid. But you didn't take it and as with the number of men that visit this site.. Hemsky wins again.

Yes, I think Hemsky is a terrific talent. He's even kind of cute. But really. He's better looking than Brodziak? Who is better looking than Moreau? I constantly date younger men, but pre-pubescent?

Needless to say, I didn't need the Hot Rod to win this thing. But if Hemsky is truly the hottest person on the Oilers, we have an UGLY UGLY team. Frankly, Hot Oil is supposed to celebrate the "hot" and this thing is proving once again, that we are NOT.

Anyways, the next round will take another form. TBA tomorrow.

An Oilfan in Vancouver

2008-12-14T20:09:00.002-05:00

Dear friends,

Last night's win made me SO incredibly happy. I can't even explain it in words.

So instead, I'll leave you with the video I made earlier in the day where at one point I'm wearing three pieces of Oilers gear. People who visit my personal site and facebook have already been inundated with it, but why not show the rest of the world what a dork I am. (It's a lipsync of a Flight of the Conchords song for a contesty thing.)

And remember, if you haven't voted an Oiler off the island. Do so below!

Loxy!!

Oiler Survivor

2008-12-12T14:40:00.006-05:00

To go from four to three, I'm asking you to vote someone off Oiler Island. So, unlike every round in every hot off thus far, you vote for the person you LEAST want to go forward.

I've compiled some stats to help you compare options:

Name: Kyle "Hot Rod" Brodziak
Alternate nicknames: Dick as a Watch
Age: 24
Hometown: St. Paul, Alberta (LOCAL BOY!)
Random Facts: Favourite subject in school is Math. Math is hot right? And his favourite video game? Microsoft golf '98.
Mad skillz: Scoring overtime fluke goal against league's best team
Unbearably Cute Picture: Working at Tim Hortons
Picture with: Greatness
Unfortunate decision: Hair choice

Name: Ales "Scarneck" Hemsky
Alternate Nickname: Hemmer
Age: 25 (yeah, right)
Hometown: Pardubice, Czech Republic
Random Facts: My car is named Ales.
Mad Skillz: All
Unbearably cute picture: Baby Ales
Picture with: Greatness
Unfortunate decision: Media Guide Picture

Name: Sheldon "Baywatch" Souray
Alternate Nickname: Shelly
Age: 32
Hometown: Elk Point, Alberta (LOCAL BOY!)
Random Facts: Wishes he had invented alcohol and a cure for cancer
Mad skillz: Not getting hurt yet this year (knocks on wood)
Unbearably cute picture: With Child
Picture with: A D-lister
Unfortunate decision: Handlebars

Name: Lubomir "Vo-et for me" Visnovsky
Alternate Nickname: Lubo
Age: 32
Hometown: Topoľčany, Czechoslovakia (Slovakia)
Random Facts: Likes the snow
Mad Skillz: Smiling
Unbearably cute picture: Anytime he smiles
Picture with: Matching Ladyfriend
Unfortunate decision: That outfit

Voting over.

And then there were FOUR.

2008-12-09T13:50:00.003-05:00

Voting will start TOMORROW with a more comprehensive post.

Some comments on the players that didn't make it on... The battle between Hot-Rodziak and Moreau was right to the wire, but my timely posting the night of the San Jose win may have had something to do with it. New blood in the final four right?
Speaking of which, props to Slava Trukhno (I can never figure out where the "h" goes in that name) as being the only non-roster player to squeeze into the elusive eight.
At one point, I thought Dustin Penner was going to give Ales Hemsky a run for his money. That would've been amazing. I don't like the same guy winning this thing over and over.. and frankly the only way to stop it is to get more ladies to vote. How can you resist the smile of Brodziak or Lubo?
Nilsson got a few votes. He may have been hampered by his Oilers picture but I think it was more a matter of how great Lubo's is. You feel his smile coming through.

Lets do this. The road to the final four.

2008-12-07T00:12:00.005-05:00

You will need to vote for FOUR people.

1. Ales "Scarneck" Hemsky vs. Dustin "The Juggla" Penner

2. Ethan "Man of the year 2006" Moreau vs. Kyle "The Hot Rod" Brodziak

3. Lubomir "Vo-et for me" Visnovsky vs. Robert "Arm Candy" Nilsson

4. Sheldon "Baywatch" Souray vs. Slava "Slava" Trukhno

An even 50 comments seems like a good time to stop...

Things that are "sick"

2008-12-05T13:27:00.000-05:00

At the 3:00 mark, I remember that time I met Robbie... New Years Eve three years ago.

The last matchup of the second round

2008-12-04T17:15:00.005-05:00

So, we're finally going to find out the top 8. I'm a little preoccupied with the return and possible stay of Hockey Jesus/Captain America. This battle is more about pride than anything else as two guys fight to go down to Sheldon Souray in the next round. And while I'm not always happy with your guys' choices, I think we've got a pretty decent group left (as shown in the side bar on the right).

I'm also eager to finish this whole deal before Christmas and while I'm super busy, I'll try to take one for the team. I'll also try to watch more games, having seen the game last night, the Oil is 7-3 when I watch. Conversely, the Canucks are 3-5 when I tune in. (I need to watch more hockey... especially with those two teams facing off three times in the next month!)

Anyways, here are your final two. Slava Trukhno and Steve MacIntyre.
(Reminder it's a hot off. If you have to put a paper bag over his whole body when you are making sweet love to him, it doesn't count.)

It goes to Slava.

He's BAAAACCKKK

2008-12-01T22:44:00.003-05:00

Get the chastity belts ready. Swallow the key.

Epic! Young vs Old.. Hot vs. Hot

2008-11-29T19:30:00.005-05:00

Sheldon Souray vs. Sam Gagner

Vote via the comments, if you can even pay attention to what you are doing here.

Sorry Sam, you're not enough of a man, yet. Souray wins.

Hockeys Future describes the next two competitors

2008-11-24T22:22:00.004-05:00

Most experts agree that Nilsson is one of the most talented Swedish players since the Sedins and at draft time was on par with Peter Forsberg and Markus Naslund when they were Nilsson's age. It should be noted however that Naslund and especially Forsberg developed their games dramatically the year after they were drafted and Nilsson's development has come along slower.

Nilsson is extremely gifted offensively. He can do pretty much anything with the puck and combines a great skating technique with fine technical skills, excellent passes and tremendous hockey sense. He is more of a play-maker than a sniper but is still capable of putting the puck in the net.

A bit of a sucker for punishment, Cornet often finds himself digging for the puck in the corners and along the boards and battling against players much larger and stronger then he is. To his credit, he takes his knocks and always gets up and tries again when he gets outmuscled and knocked down. When he does get the puck, he has the ability to thread a pass that has no business getting through, thanks to his on-ice awareness and soft hands, but his lack of strength reduces his effectiveness.

The Nils takes it!

Lubo vs. Poulo

2008-11-20T15:07:00.003-05:00

Loxy commentary:

These are two guys I've considered for my new favourite Oiler. While it's been nearly six months since Marty left, I still haven't been able to attach myself to a new guy. Pouliot has the underdoggedness (combined with very untimely illness before the cup run) and Visnovsky has the slight comic timing of a charming soul. Maybe combined they could be my man, but separate, I'm not yet convinced. When you are judging this and any other competition, I remind you to look past the pictures I post. I'm lazy and often don't find the best of both worlds.

Lubo has the cuter smile, but I'm a big fan of Poo's sweater.

YOU vo-eted for LUBO!

Wordledmonton!

2008-11-20T03:24:00.002-05:00

Create your own wordle!

Goaltenders get the girls, but he's up against the Hot Rod.

2008-11-18T03:27:00.004-05:00

Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers vs. Kyle Brodziak

As expected, this wasn't even close. The Hot Rod wins.

Former Champ takes on Guitar Hero

2008-11-14T18:16:00.003-05:00

Ethan Moreau:

Jason Strudwick:

Vote in the comments! NOW!

The round that Penner wins

2008-11-12T16:35:00.005-05:00

Chris Vande Velde is good at spouting off hockey cliches.

Dustin Penner is funny, but I couldn't find a good clip to show it.

Vote in the comments.

What did I tell you Lord Bob? Penner wins. Easy peasy japanesey.

What Monday? Right?

2008-11-10T11:02:00.003-05:00

Ales Hemsky random fact, brought to you from wikipedia:

Hemský returned to the Czech Republic to play 47 games for HC Moeller Pardubice during the 2004 NHL Lockout. During that time, he scored 13 goals and 31 points, fifth on the club. Pardubice won the Extraleague championship for the first time in 16 years, and Hemský was named playoff MVP for his efforts.

While in the Czech Republic, Hemský was slashed on the left side of his neck with a broken beer bottle by an unidentified assailant in a Czech bar. He still has the scar.

Andrew Cogliano random fact, brought to you from wikipedia:

On March 7, March 9, and March 11 of 2008, Cogliano set an NHL record by scoring overtime goals in three consecutive games against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues. His stick and gloves were subsequently sent to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Cogliano grew up in Woodbridge, Ontario. During the winter, he and his older brother played hockey and during the summer they played soccer.

In round two, you vote in the comments. Anonymous does not count.

HEMSKY TAKES IT. BLURG.

Round 2 starts Monday

2008-11-01T13:43:00.003-04:00

The polls were fun in round 1 but now it's time to be seriously dedicated. To vote, you'll have to leave a comment. Anonymous posters will not be counted.

And we'll be starting with a battle of epic proportions... here's how everyone stacks up.

Yay for screen captures!

And if you can't wait for Oilers content, a friend of mine is video blogging about the team - at Trent's Art.

Day 16: The last of the first round (though none of these guys are first round picks)

2008-10-28T14:08:00.003-04:00

From top left clockwise: Spurge, Trunks, He who would kill Pleasure Motors, and some kid named Quist.

Day 15: Who?, who?, who?, ew, and WHOO!

2008-10-26T11:53:00.008-04:00

Teemu Hartikainen

Who?

Tim Sesito

Who?

Theo Peckham

Who?

Tom Gilbert

ew.

Steve MacIntyre

WHOOOOOOOO!

Don't vote. Mac Attack already beat your ass.

Day 14: Souray's Battle to Lose

2008-10-22T19:25:00.008-04:00

Hello! Today we watch as the Oilers' best dressed player takes on old man Staios and two dudes who didn't make the team. Vote at will, friends!

Sheldon Souray

Steve Staios

Stephane Goulet

Taylor Chorney

SOURAY WINS.

Day 13: Back to your regularly scheduled Hot Off

2008-10-20T14:30:00.002-04:00

GAGNER, er, GAGNE

Ass kicking!

2008-10-19T00:47:00.004-04:00

Suck it Calgary!

I may be upset with the organization, but I'm still happy with my boys.

(P.S. Can you name the 4 in the pic? It's pretty easy, but worth comments.)

I don't want the press pass and other musings.

2008-10-18T14:02:00.005-04:00

The story of a blogger kicked out of the press box has now travelled outside the Oilogosphere and into the world.... here, here, here and here and now here- just a selection of some of my faves.

Yesterday, I ranted. Today, I'm still pretty annoyed.

I'm not annoyed that they kicked him out. He was probably going against the stipulations of his press pass - possibly unknowingly. But who wants to go through that? Professionally or personally.

I believe there are three main points that are addressed in this story.

1. A double standard - He was told he couldn't live blog, but others were doing so.
2. A lack of policy - The reasons for his removal changed
3. The role of the blogger - The Oilers don't need to encourage it, but why discourage it?

David Staples, a member of the mainstream media (and blogger?), gets it best in my mind. Scroll down past his game review to see him address the subject.

THE FUTURE IS WITH THE BLOGS
4. The organizations that will thrive in the future are the ones that will not only embrace the new platform of the Internet, they will master it. It's going to evidently take some time for mainstream organizations and thinkers to master the new platform, and mistakes are going to be made along the way.
The Oilers' mistake right now is to not have a coherent policy about "live" blogs from the press box. They should take the time to come up with one that makes sense, one that allows for "live" blogs from top columnists and credible bloggers so that Dave Berry and others can get on with their work.

So, what can you do?

Spread the message around. If you have a blog, put it up there, encourage discussion. What role does the blogger play? By forcing DMFB to delete the post, was he being censored?
Write the Edmonton Oilers. Ask them about their policy. Ask them about their double standards on live blogging.

P.S.
Here's the address:
Edmonton Oilers Hockey Club
11230 - 110 Street
Edmonton, Alberta
T5G 3H7

Office: 780-414-4000
Fax: 780-409-5890

Email: http://oilers.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NHLPage&id=3677

If you kids with your google-skills can find more contact info, pass it along in the comments.

And don't worry, I will get off my soap box and continue the hot-off. Nobody likes an asterisk year.

Thanks for nothing Edmonton Oilers organization.

2008-10-17T19:19:00.007-04:00

On Sunday, I was following the Oilers blogging on Covered in Oil and Lowetide. During the intermission, the live-blog that Pleasure Motors had been doing disappeared. In other comments threads we joked about him getting in trouble for writing about the game from the press-box. We didn't know that was actually the truth.

If you haven't already, read his account of the evening.

This is disappointing on so many levels.

As a member of the media, I am not surprised by their actions because it happens all too often.
As an oilers blogger, I am hurt that the support the oilogosphere generates seems to be ignored.
As a huge fan of the team, I am angry that they would treat such an equally huge supporter so poorly.
And as a human being, I am saddened that they feel they need to censor us.

I mentioned it in the comments over at CIO, but I'm hoping for your suggestions here. How can we spread the word about this? Should we do a blog blackout? And turn the blogs off for a week? Should we ban Oilers Nation until they abide by the same rules? Should we spam the Oilers website?

Ideas please...

For those being linked here from other blogs, here is the newest post.

Day 12: Will Schremp be "robbed" of another Hot Off title?

2008-10-16T02:39:00.003-04:00

Why should you vote for each of these dudes?

Robert Nilsson: Because you're a gay man or overly European.

Robbie Schremp: Because you have a heart that beats, eyes that see and an insatiable hunger to find out what picture I could possibly reveal in the next round.

Robby Dee: Because you love bad music and you assume that he must be a radio DJ counting down your top-40 hits.

Ryan O'Marra: Because you believe in education. (And maybe you're secretly hoping he eventually makes it against all odds at this point.)

VOTE!

I miss Reasoner... not just because we are terrible at faceoffs

2008-10-16T01:03:00.000-04:00

Movie review

2008-10-15T16:34:00.002-04:00

Most of this Oilers website video sucks. It's Sam Gagner (who I have to admit is totally cute, even if he's about a decade my junior) humming and hawing and thinking back to what cliches the press guy says he's allowed to use, it's eagle eye (not eyed because he has one eye of an eagle and one of a bear) Shawn Horcoff talking forever but barely saying anything, and then just before the halfway point, we see Dustin Penner.

I'm by no means a Dustin Penner fan, but he just got a +1 in my books. (A long way to catch Marty at +99)

Day 11: An all prospects bracket

2008-10-15T12:52:00.004-04:00

Cornetto Cone wins! (Likely because he was wearing an Oilers jersey!)

Day 10: Mmm

2008-10-13T18:30:00.004-04:00

I'd put my money on Garon, because ladies love goalies, but this is probably the hottest that MAP has looked in a while. Especially after that one terrible roster picture. You know the one. His looks are.. uh.. looking up?

Decided by only one vote, MAP wins!

Season ON!

2008-10-12T20:38:00.001-04:00

What a start! Scorcoff! From HO2007 and Grebs!

82!

2008-10-11T04:47:00.002-04:00

82 goals this season!! And doesn't he look dapper?? :)

Hot Oil's Where are they now? Brock Radunske

2008-10-10T14:09:00.005-04:00

He garnered a "Cute Prospect Alert" and was #4 on the "Hot-Oil Hot Prospects List" (which was topped by the illustrious and still Hot Rodziak).

So, whatever happened to Brock Radunske?

Selected 79th overall by the Oil in the 2002 Draft. He left college after year 3 to pursue a pro career and that's where things went downhill.

He got a few chances in the AHL but played most of the next 3 years with the GRRRROWWWLLLLL. Those three years and whatever money came with it dried up, and so he left for Germany. He had an "okay" season with them, 8th in team scoring but beat out by a bunch of no-namers and a 5'6" Norwegian.

It wasn't enough to stay there...

Where is Brock Radunske now?

Anyang Halla! Say what?!

South Korea! Anyways, the season doesn't seem to have started yet and I doubt he's the property of the Oil yet... but I sense a comeback. Or at least his new roster picture makes me want him to come back to North America!

Random fact: It's the same team Esa played for as well as Petr Nedved's brother!

Oh baby.

2008-10-09T15:44:00.002-04:00

Clearly, our team hotness is going to increase exponentially this year with the addition of the old-school "third" jerseys. What's sexier than garish orange and blue together? NOTHING, that's what.

Day 9: "L" is for the way you look at me

2008-10-09T12:59:00.006-04:00

LL Cool Lubo.

(Wins)

I know who wants you to vote for them.

VOTE in the sidebar.

Career Backup Once Again Relegated to Backup

2008-10-09T10:15:00.004-04:00

It appears that the writing is on the wall for my $3 million boyfriend Dwayne Roloson. Only 2.5 years after finally, FINALLY! being assigned to a #1 goaltending slot at the age of 36, Roli will be starting the 2008/09 season as a backup once again, some more. Mark Spector has a nice article about the situation here. My squees are with you, Roli. Now take off your pants.

Day 8: The Day Alana Learns to Count

2008-10-07T09:07:00.007-04:00

Today's battle pits three relative unknowns against Hot Oil favourite Kyle Brodziak.

VOTE NOW!

Josef Hrabal

Kyle Brodziak

Jordan Eberle

Jordan Bendfeld

NO CONTEST. IT'S HOT RODZIAK.

DAY 7: "J" is for "just who are you again??"

2008-10-05T04:30:00.004-04:00

No banter because I know nothing about these dudes.

JDD WINS!

Day 5: The Stud versus the Dessert

2008-10-03T12:34:00.006-04:00

Welcome to Day 5 of the 2008 Hot-Off! We've got four competitors in this bracket, but let's be honest: real estate salesman Paukovich and meathead-esque JFJ don't have a chance. This is a battle between Jason "Studwick" Strudwick and Gilbert "Creme" Brule.

Strudwick is Edmonton-born, can grow a kickass moustache, is willing to rock out to Bon Jovi, and likes to spaz.

Brule is also Edmonton-born, pronounces his name "Jill-bear," has dreamy eyes, and the XBox version of him can do nifty tricks.

Here are those other two clowns, if neither of the above rock your boat:

Geoff Paukovich

Jean-Francois Jacques

46% STUDWICK!! 43% BRULE!!

Because I'm posting this every place possible.

2008-10-03T04:05:00.002-04:00

...and if MC79 can post political content...

I have watched this nearly two dozen times already. It's as addictive as...

Day 5: In those moving pictures

2008-10-02T02:52:00.004-04:00

Sorry guys, I didn't mean for it to work out like this. Any of these guys could've won the last fight. A good battle right?

Dwayne Roloson:

Erik Cole:

Ethan Moreau:

Fernando Pisani:

Suggest your favourite videos in the comments!!

SHOCKER: MOREAU WINS.

Day 4: A Vote for DP is a Vote for Cheeseburgers

2008-10-01T10:00:00.006-04:00

Here we are at Day 4 of the 2008 Hot-Off, and we have entered the realm of the Ds. You're all familiar with Dustin Penner (above), who will appeal to the ladies who find slow, out of shape "athletes" attractive, but what of the rest of this bracket? Let's have a look, shall we?

David Rohlfs

Who the hell is this guy? Apparently he's a blueliner, and was acquired by the Oil because he's a big dude (6-foot-3, 234 lbs). He's a college boy (U Michigan), so your parents would probably like him. Is that hot?

Denis Grebeshkov

Denis, here, has actually seen some ice time with the Oil so that gives him a bit of an advantage. He also brings about fond memories of MAB getting shipped out of town, and once played for the Lokomotiv, the Prez's favourite Russian team. What's not to like?

Devan Dubnyk

Devan is a ridiculously tall (6-foot-6) goalie who's been in our system for ages and probably won't be seeing any play this year, once again. He also sort of reminds me of Winchester. Are you into ladylike giants? Vote for Devan.

DUSTIN PENNER WITH 72% OF THE VOTE

Some things I stumbled upon

2008-09-30T15:25:00.003-04:00

And this: Hockey players that look like celebrities (or vice versa)

DAY 3: Maybe the first battle where one person doesn't take all the votes?

2008-09-29T13:01:00.005-04:00

I'm sure you have no idea who these four guys are... I sure as hell had to do research to ensure the pictures matched the names and the names matched the Oilers prospects.

Top Left: Carl Corrazini
He had a blog for the Grand Rapids Griffins. He misses being away from his wife. That's where I stopped reading it.

Top Right: Chris Vande Velde
There was an interview with him on HF. Nothing interesting in there.

Bottom Left: Cody Wild
Not only is the photoshop job to black out the background a little cheesy, but so is the fact that he kinda looks like Dustin Diamond. Sorry kid.

Bottom Right: Colin McDonald
I really have a jonesing for an Arch Deluxe. I know McDonalds hasn't made them in like ten years, but that peppered round piece of bacon? Mmm...

Vande Velde takes it!

How do you feel about Bryans?

2008-09-27T17:39:00.011-04:00

Welcome to day 2 of the 2008 Hot-Off! Today's battle pits three relatively unknown Bryans against one Mr. Andrew Cogliano. For your consideration:

Le Cogs

Bryan #1 (Lerg)

Bryan #2 (Pitton)

Bryan #3 (Young)

COGS WINS!

You're fit but don't you just know it.

2008-09-27T13:18:00.005-04:00

So the Oilers have released their ~~hotness~~ fitness testing results from training camp. And of the 50 or so guys there... the man above is your winner. Who is he? Other then some guy who was seemingly at the Capital Ex (Klondike Days? Whaaa?)...

It's Edmonton born Tyler Spurgeon (or I hope it is). Stamina is a bit of a turn on, right? In his acceptance speech, he even gives a shout out to two favourites here at the HO:

“I was training out at Athlete’s Nation,” Spurgeon explains. “Fernando was there and Kyle Brodziak. We just did a lot of Olympic lifts and also just getting that conditioning up so that you’re ready to go with lots of power, lots of speed.”

~Edmontonoilers.com

Rounding out the top 5: Bryan Young, Jake Taylor, Ladislav Smid, and Guillaume Lefebvre.

(Bold indicates a player who actually matters.)

Here we go: HOT OFF 3.0!

2008-09-26T13:32:00.009-04:00

Following in the footsteps of Ethan Moreau and Ales Hemsky, we search for the next Hot Oiler. This year, many of the prospects are in the running, just so that you have an eye on what is in the system.

Of note, I didn't put Igor Ulanov or Marty Reasoner in the competition because not only does it make it unfair, but I am announcing their placement in the Hot Oil Hall of Fame. They join the "Hottest Oiler of All-Time" (and current coach) Craig "The Silver Fox" MacT with their best team picture in the rafters.

Now, onto the how to...

As you saw, I posted the format. In the first round, we'll be cutting a quarter of the players... going from 48 to a sweet sixteen. In this first round, you'll vote in the side bar (hopefully every day). But your comments still count. In the case of a tie, the winner will be decided by who gets the most (and hilariousest) comments.

So, here we go...

HEMSKY WINZ!

The hot off is happy... Lets think about that.

2008-09-24T04:25:00.001-04:00

Starting soon.

Sad.

2008-09-23T04:53:00.002-04:00

Tragedy strikes Markkanen family

That's rough.

Sigh.

Jussi was one of my faves. I hope his family makes it through this tough tough time.

Hot Oil is NOT dead. I repeat Hot Oil is NOT dead.

2008-09-15T14:02:00.004-04:00

I think this shirt (worn by none other than Oiler defenceman Sheldon Souray) is pretty perfect considering how little content we've written the past few months. We just haven't given any love to the Oil.

Don't you worry.

The hot-off is being prepared.

And this year, it's gonna be huge.

(And if it's immediate content you want, my other blogs, here and here, offer more regular musings. Cross-promotion, ya!)

Old News

2008-08-26T04:48:00.003-04:00

Moreau in hit and run in Vancouver.

That's not cool.

But it is a reason to put up old Moreau pictures.

Gone but not forgotten: Marty Reasoner

2008-08-18T03:57:00.002-04:00

reasoner
Originally uploaded by dreamofcolors

I know, more Marty content.. I can't help it. The new season will start and I'll know something is just not right. It's cause Marty isn't there.

Anyways, I stumbled upon this (how come I didn't think of a Marty Slide show first?) at Staple's Cult of Hockey. And you know me... Anything I find Reasoner related, goes on this page.

Number one fan. 4eva.

Another one off the market

2008-08-15T03:39:00.004-04:00

Watch the video to see which Hot-Oil favourite has said his vows this summer.

Where have all the wild and crazy young single Oilers gone? Me want photos from the paps! Will I have to start posting Hilary Duff-Mike Comrie rumours?

Here comes the bride

2008-08-13T12:30:00.002-04:00

He's no longer an Oiler, but he once played one on TV. Jarret Stoll has asked his lady friend of the last two plus years, Rachel Hunter, to be his wifey. I remember back when their coupling was just new. The Oilers were in the Stanley Cup Finals, I was in Edmonton in the will-call line behind her and she was tall.

A lot has changed since that day - but she remains tall.

His trade to L.A. was probably all they needed to seal the deal, but watch out honey, three years from now she'll be vetoing trades to everywhere from Calgary to Minnesota. I hope she's less of a Mrs. Chris Pronger than say, Mrs. Chris Pronger. Truthfully, I kinda like her. Older woman, younger dude... Not afraid to be curvy.. Not afraid to come to Edmonton after dating Stoll for only a few months...

A toast, to their engagement, may his head be in it, long after it leaves hockey.

(Glove tap to Leah)

Who is this dude? NHLer? I doubt it.

2008-08-07T02:37:00.003-04:00

Story:

Dear Hot-Oilers. A friend of mine (true story, I don't have time to date) was checking up on her POF profile and started checking on those who were checking on her. Kind of like reverse stalking or something.

Anyway, since I'm the hockey fanatic, she messaged me a profile asking if I know who this dude is.

He claims he's an NHLer, living in Vancouver.

The pictures show him wearing a Dallas Stars uniform.

I couldn't pick him out from Adam but figured you smart cookies would be able to figure out who he is.

If he's a former "star" we can probably make fun of his emo pics.

Oh, I suppose I should attach the link:

http://www.plentyoffish.com/member6034949.htm#in

How hot is our new GM?

2008-07-31T13:45:00.000-04:00

I know Alana likes the 'stache and I don't think I can resist those eyes...

But the best part of it all, taking something from the Canucks.

Your favourite Marty memories

2008-07-21T13:21:00.003-04:00

My favourite Marty memory was just before last season, we went camping up near Lake Waskepetoo. It was a nice little getaway just me, Marty, his dog Dr. Teeth and the former cast of The OC. The long weekend was nice, but the best moment was when the car ran out of gas on the way home. He had to make it back for training camp, so he pulled us and the car, all the way back to Edmonton, from North Dakota. Such a nice guy, that Marty Reasoner.
Thinking back on it, he was pretty tired the next few months... wonder if that affected the first 20 games or so of his season.

Oh well!

What's your favourite Marty memory?

I have a new blog...

2008-07-14T00:20:00.001-04:00

And today there is a picture of MacT on it.

So I thought I'd give the Hot Oil readers a heads up:

Marry, Boff, Kill.

Moustache ride, anyone?

2008-07-12T18:17:00.002-04:00

I think I want to have Jason Strudwick's babies. From the 'stache to the terrible singing, he's working hard to replace Roli as my number one. Nice pickup, Lowe!

Oilers acquire Jason Strudwick

2008-07-10T14:27:00.001-04:00

SC3398
Originally uploaded by Dustin Hall

And I'm too lazy to look for good pictures.

Thoughts?

Better than average generic looking guy?

Desperately Seeking Team

2008-07-08T03:55:00.004-04:00

According to Mirtle's List - The 12th best point scoring forward is still up for grabs...

And obviously I don't mean CFP.

Also, while I'm here and writing.. count me on the side of glad that the NHL has told Lowe and Burke to shut the hell up. I wish it didn't have to get to that, but they are both being babies - and their name calling hasn't even been that funny.

Who's Your (Sugar) Daddy?

2008-07-04T20:23:00.003-04:00

Even though the ownership deal is weeks old, the ladies of Hot Oil would be remiss if we did not take a few moments to comment on the relative hotness of our new Big Boss Man, Darryl Katz. Power and money can be sexy, right? And free over-the-counter medication? HOT. It's a good thing Mr. Katz has those things going for him because he's no Dwayne Roloson in the looks department, if you know what I mean.

That's not to say I would kick him out of bed if I had on some cough-syrup-goggles. May cause drowsiness? Rawr. Bring over a case of extra-strength Robitussin, Mr. Rexall, and let's see where the night takes us.

Out vs. In

2008-07-01T12:33:00.003-04:00

Out: Ginger Kids and Ogres

IN: Ugly people
EDIT! That's probably an unfair statement this early in the game. I just had a lot of problems coming up with a photo for Cole that didn't have a Stanley Cup in it, which made me sick to my stomach. And I can remember the hard-on people in Vancouver had for Brule a few years ago... now they have probably forgotten his name. Cough*bandwagon*cough.

Well if Marty doesn't come back, I have a new fave player...

2008-07-01T02:52:00.001-04:00

Jarret Stoll: Rachel Hunter-bound

2008-06-29T23:27:00.004-04:00

Apparently it takes a trade like this for me to get off my ass and blog for a change. Just as I was warming up to Matt Greene's ~~lovable~~ tolerable on-ice follies, he gets shipped to Los Angeles for that Eastern European treat (Slovakia is close enough to Russia for my taste). Visnovsky will make more per year than the ladies' favourite hair gel-abuser, Souray for the remainder of Souray's contract here. I hope someone has carefully inspected Visnovsky's shoulder.

Rachel Hunter will undoubtedly be pleased about the shorter commute.

Fresh Meat

2008-06-22T13:56:00.002-04:00

Oh, hello. I'm dusting off this here blog to welcome yet another infant to the team: Jordan Eberle. I have to commend the powers that be -- Mr. Eberle is kind of hot. And also an Oilfan, which is always attractive. Too bad he's, like, 12.

What do you guys think of the new addition?

NHL All-Rookie Team welcomes an Oiler...

2008-06-15T12:59:00.001-04:00

Gilbert boys -- Cory, Tom, and Dan
Originally uploaded by Aaron Bailey

It's old news, but hey, I'm just yearning for content on this site and haven't received anything from my new tryouts...

So, despite all the love for Cogs and Gagner, Tom Gilbert came out the only Oilers winner during the NHL award season.

Robbed... Pantsani.

It's kinda crappy to argue who had a crappier year.. but based on that definition.. I'd really argue for Fernando.

Now accepting submissions.

2008-06-03T02:46:00.002-04:00

You may have noticed an absence in blogging here at Hot Oil. You may have also noticed an absence of the Oilers in the playoffs. There may be a connection.

With the playoffs wrapping up in the very near future, it's time to start looking towards next year and the future of Hot Oil.

It's time to add a new recruit.

If you are interested, please submit the following information in the comments:
1. Name
2. Favourite Oiler
3. Reason why you think you'd make a good blogger.
4. Short bio about yourself
5. Will you be a guest on my resurrected podcast?
6. What is your nickname?
7. What clever nickname have you come up with for an oiler?
8. If you were having drinks with Shawn Horcoff, who would pick up the tab and what would be on it?
9. How are you related to an Oiler?
10. If you were trapped in a burning building, which Oiler would save you?

We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not pay, unless you can figure out a way to make money off this. Yes, boys are welcome to submit an application.. in fact, I think Hot Oil could use a little bit of sausage.

Mr. Glass Sighting!

2008-04-05T09:45:00.002-04:00

I just received this email from reader Terrie:

"I just ran into Ethan at the Billiard's club and asked him if he got his Hot-Off care package. He said that he was proud that he won the first Hot-Off and asked if the ladies from Hot Oil where at the bar. I unfortunately had to say no. I am a longtime reader so I hope this info will be of interest. I also bugged him for a picture as evidence. (I feel bad as he seemed kinda annoyed that I bugged him a second time to get the picture.) The pic was on a friend's camera so it is pending."

Rad! Thanks, Terrie!

"Just Doing Some Visualization Stuff"

2008-03-30T12:32:00.003-04:00

It's not often that "Sexypants" Roloson speaks directly to his eccentricities (read: weird-ass behaviour), but in this clip he confirms that he is "just" doing some visualization exercises during those bizarre mid-game meditation sessions. Whatever. Keep it up, pal -- two games to go!

There ain't no party like a popularity party cause a popularity party don't stop.

2008-03-28T14:13:00.004-04:00

On April 1st, the Oilers will be giving out their end of the year awards. It'll likely be the last home game (though if we don't make the playoffs, please let us take the Canucks down with us) and a moment of reflection on the year that was.

So, I'd like to take this time to remind everyone, vote for your Oilers, give at least one nod my man Marty. Remember, he would vote for you too:

http://oilers.nhl.com/fanzone/awards.htm

Team Reasoner

2008-03-23T11:06:00.004-04:00

Oh, hi there. It's been a long time, hasn't it? Lucky for you, I've been guilted into posting today by my visiting die-hard Oil fanboy brother. He seems to think this team might make the playoffs. I say NO CHANCE. Nevertheless, the Oilers remain the funniest team in the league, as evidenced by the below clip of Reasoner and Greene talking about last night's allowed goal. Funny = sexy, no?

Happy Easter, y'all! Eat lots of chocolate.