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lordabovehelpme · 4 years ago

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AHHHHHHH! I just read A Day at the Lake!🥺😭 I swear that was the cutest thing I’ve ever read!😭 I need to go reread it!

Other than thaaaat... if u make another part... what if it’s twins?! Like a boy and a girl bc Din would lose it and it would be so freaking adorable! Ahhhh! I have baby fever now thank u😂

Delivery Day- Din Djarin x Reader

A/n: Please, you can’t do this to me. I kinda went overboard but I hope you like it!!! I am so happy you liked Lazy day and a day at the lake. I had so much fun writing them! Also yes, baby fever is deadly! So your welcome for infecting you ;)

Amazing moodboard by @jedi-jesi I love this one!!!!

Warnings: Pregnancy, birth, and children

This is the third part to my Lazy day fic. You can find part one here and part two here. :)

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You twist and turn in front of the mirror. A frown is plastered on your face as your hands trail over your swollen stomach.

“Din, do I look bigger than usual?”

The mandalorian looks up from where he was cleaning his blaster. His helmet tilts and soon he arises from his seat. Two large hands press and rub over your taut skin. “Cyare, you’re pregnant.”

“Really? I didn’t notice.” Glaring at him through the mirror, you sigh, “No, I just feel like… I don’t know… bigger.”

His hands leave your stomach to quickly pull off his helmet and attach his lips to your neck. “Hmmm, well I think you look amazing.” The vibrations from his voice travel down your spine and send tingle throughout your body.

Smiling, you turn your head and press a kiss to his cheek. “Thanks love.”

“It’ll be alright, don’t worry.” Stopping his attack on your neck, he rests his chin on your head and peers down at your stomach. “I’m so excited for him to arrive.”

A loud laugh breaks from your lips at his certain belief of your unborn child being a boy.

***

Reeza, your daughter, has sat herself on the counter near the sink. She peers out the small window longingly at her father and her brother.

Din has decided that Myles, your firstborn son, is finally old enough to begin his mandalorian training. Most mornings are now spent with you, Reeza, and Grogu setting up breakfast while your husband and Myles will train outside.

“Mommy?”

“Yes dear?” You look up from your sizzling pan of vegetables.

“When do I get to start training? I want to be a warrior too.”

Sighing, you wipe your hands on the towel that was draped over your shoulder. Walking over to her, your hand cups her cheek and you press a kiss to the top of her head. “Well, it's up to your father, but probably next year.”

“Next year!” Her arms fly up into the air in distress and she buries her head in your chest. “I can’t wait that long.”

Looking down, your brush through her long brown hair. Both of your children are carbon copies of your husband. “Maybe if you ask nicely, Myles will tell you what exercises he does and you can copy them. Then maybe Daddy will notice and he’ll start you early.”

“Good idea Mommy!” She releases you and turns to carefully watch them again.

Smiling, you go back to your pan and add some species. “Ree, could you go tell them that breakfast is ready.” She nods and jumps off the counter, running outside the hatch.

You set five plates down on the small table, and walk over to Grogu who was focused on memorizing his metal ball. He looks up and coos at you, arms lifting into the universal sign for “up.” Frowning, you peer down at him.

“You know if I get down, there's no way I’m getting back up.” His arms lower and he walks over to his seat at the table, before pulling himself up onto the chair. He looks at you and babbles something. Shaking your head you jokingly wave a finger at him. “You just wanted to see if I would fall for your tricks, didn’t you.”

Before he can respond, arms are wrapped around your middle and a helmet is shoved into the crevice between your head and your shoulder. He chuckles at your soft squeak of surprise, “Smells good, mesh’la.” Giving you one last slight squeeze, he releases you and sits down at the head of the table.

Smiling, you start dishing up three plates and setting them in front of your children. “Thanks Mommy.” “Thank you.” and “Gaa!” Reeza and Grogu sit next to each other while Myles sits across from them, your husband sits at the head and you sit at the other end.

Reaching for Din’s plate, he swats your hand away, “Go sit down, I’ve got it cyare.” Taking his helmet off and setting it on the floor next to his chair, he smiles and presses a kiss to your lips.

“Ewww, stop it!” Myles complains and Reeza makes a gagging sound, Grogu just giggles at them.

Breaking away you look at your children who all look disgusted. “How do you think you little rascals were made?”

“DIN!” You slap his chest with your towel and he just grins at you. Turning to your children, you exclaim, “Don’t listen to your father!”

“Mommy, what does Daddy mean?” Sweet little innocent Reeza asks.

Glaring at your husband you walk over and brush her hair away from her forehead, “You ask Daddy that in a few years, okay?” You can tell she is confused by the way her head tilts, mirroring the frequent habit of your husband perfectly. Albeit, she just nods and shoves another spoonful of vegetables into her mouth.

Sending Din one last glare, you sit down and start at your own plate. “Myles, stop playing with your brother. Eat your food.”

His head whips to meet your own, shock written all over his face that you caught him. Recently, Myles and Grogu have been playing the game of “levitating food.” Myles will point at a specific piece of food and Grogu will try and lift it into his mouth. Pouting, he looks down at his plate and stabs an unsuspecting pepper.

Silence is a foreign term in the Djarin residence, and today is no different. As soon as everyone settles down, the child gives a hard kick to your ribs. A whine falls from your lips as your hand flies over your stomach. The mandalorian instantly is at your side, rubbing and massaging whatever skin his hands can reach.

“Sorry, they’re just kicking hard.” Giving your worried family an apologetic smile, you try and laugh it off.

Your husband’s eyes frantically watch your features, checking to see if you are in any pain. When he finds no signs, he places a hand over your stomach in a protective manner. Turning to his children he sighs, “Your mother and I have made a decision.”

All three children stop eating and look at him. They all look so serious. You have to bite back a smile at how they all sport the same serious face their father uses, even Grogu has started making the same expressions as his father.

“We’ve decided that we are going to travel and spend the next month and a half at the covert. That way the child will be born safely there and Myles you can get your first helmet.”

“I want a brother!” Myles shouts before the idea of his own helmet even processes.

“Not fair, you have Grogu. I want a sister!” Reeza sticks her tongue out at Myles.

“Wait!” Myles turns to his father, eyes as large as the moon. “I get my own helmet?” With a proud grin, your husband nods and Myles yells out in delight. “When are we leaving? Can we go now?”

Din turns to look at you and asks, “Well should we go now?”

You nod your head and everyone jumps into action. Reeza grabs plates and brings them to the sink. Din and Myles practically run to the cockpit and start the procedure for liftoff. Even though it’s only been seven months, your stomach has already surpassed the size of your last pregnancy. They do say that every pregnancy the child is bigger than the last, but this is alot bigger than you expected.

***

“Din? No way. How have you been? I haven’t seen you in years man.” Paz Vizsla envelopes your husband into a large hug and they both pat each other backs. They talk back and forth for a while before Paz finally sees you walking down the hatch. “I see you’ve been busy.” He throws your husband a glance before walking over to also hug you.

You stand at the base of the hatch, Grogu attached to your hip while Myles holds your other hand. Reeza, a tad shocked at the size of the man, hides behind your legs and clutches your skirt. “Fancy seeing you here.” You toss the familiar helmet a wide smile and he walks over to hug you.

“My my, Reeza you’re so big! Last time I saw you, you fit in the palm of my hand.” Still unsure of the warrior, she slowly makes her way from behind you. “And Myles, I heard you are coming for your helmet. I’m so proud of you.”

Your son smiles at Paz and lets the man pick him up. “Thanks, I’m super excited.”

“You should be, you’ve been the talk of the covert recently.” Din walks over to your side and Reeza runs over to him, wanting to be in her fathers arms. Picking her up, you all walk into the covert.

As soon as you make it through the doors, everyone is greeting you. Women coo at the large swell to your belly and the men pat Din on the back, your children have run off with the other covert children.

Shortly the armorer greets you, “Welcome back. Your room is ready, right next to the med bay.” She gives you a nod and goes back to her duties. It took awhile for her to warm up to you since you are not mandalorian. But as the years have gone on and the more children you produce, she seems to have now taken a liking to you.

The women pull you away from the main group to sit by the fire. “You look like you could pop any second! How far along are you?” Beti, one of your friends, asks.

“It’s only been a little over seven months.” All the women gasp in shock and hands fly over your stomach.

“No way, the baby is supposed to grow the most in the next couple months! You can’t grow much more.”

“I know!” Seeing Beti’s look of question, you sigh, “Yes, I’m sure it’s only been seven months.”

She throws her hands up in defense. “You know, Mirta was huge, about as big as you are, and she had twins.” Women nod and make sounds of agreement.

All the sudden, the dots start connecting. You thought you remembered less activity from your other pregnancies and now it makes sense. Your hand flies to cover your mouth that has hung open in shock. But your mind rejects the idea and you shake your head. “There’s no way.”

***

The bed dips as your husband crawls under the covers with you. “Hey handsome.”

He nuzzles up against you and presses a kiss to your shoulder. “Mmm cyar’ika.” You let out a giggle as his scruff tickles your neck. All at once, pain erupts from your stomach. “Cyare?”

“Din…” A pathetic wail falls from your lips and you roll off the bed, standing and clutching the edge of the bed for stability, “the baby.”

His features flood with panic before they fall back into his stoic facade. “Alright, let’s get you to the med bay.” Nodding, you grab his shirt and clench your teeth as another wave of pain passes through your body.

Your eyes widen when water runs down your thighs. “Din, my w-water-” A groan interrupts your own voice.

He scoops you from your feet. “It’s okay, cyare, I’ve got you.” His voice soothes your nerves a little, but there is little you can do to a woman in labor.

As you enter the med bay, the doctor instantly starts informing you both on the procedure and plan however you can’t focus on what she’s saying. Din lays you down on the medical bed and moves to clutch your hand.

After many excruciating hours of pain and yelled curses you finally hear the wail of a child. You catch your breath as the doctor informs you that you’ve had a healthy baby boy. Handing your son to you, she nods before closing a curtain around you both.

Din rips his helmet from his head and instantly presses a kiss to your forehead and then to his new son. “Oh mesh’la.” His voice cracks with emotion and a tear falls onto his cheek.

But before you can respond another wave of pain travels through your body. “DIN!” Handing your son to him, you clutch the blanket. Instantly, he throws his helmet on and flings open the curtain to find the doctor.

“Somethings wrong!” You can hear the panic in his voice as he beckons her back to you. “This has never happened before. Please, help her.”

She takes a look at the spot between your legs before glancing at your husband. “She’s having another.”

“Kriff, another?!” You should have known, Beti told you so. A nurse walks over to Din and takes your son from his arms, needing to clean him.

“Alright cyare, you got it. I’m right here. Come on, cyar’ika.” You don’t miss the way he grimaces when you squeeze his hand.

After what seems like seconds and yet hours, another cry is heard and finally the pain subsides. Din gasps as he leans forward, trying to catch a glimpse of his child leaving your body. “Congratulations, you have a healthy baby girl.”

The nurse arrives back with your son, handing him to Din, and the doctor hands your daughter to you. Once again, she nods before closing the thick curtain.

Pressing a kiss to her head you peer up at your husband who hasn’t moved since the nurse offered him his son. He seems frozen, you’re not even sure he is breathing. “Din?”

It takes him a second to slowly turn his helmet to meet your gaze. One shaky hand lifts up his helmet, his eyes as wide as saucers and swirling with unshed tears. The helmet makes a loud bang as it falls from his grasp onto the floor. That same hand reaches over to your daughter and caresses her head. “They’re perfect.” A tear falls from his eyes, “Kriff, you’re perfect.”

He falls to his knees, but makes sure to keep his new son secure and safe. His head leans on your shoulder and finally all his tears fall. Loud sobs echo throughout the small enclosed space.

“I’m so happy.” The twins have both fallen asleep, one on your chest and the other in his embrace. He chokes on a tear before offering you a kiss, teardrops falling from his eyes to mix with the ones you are now shedding. “You’re amazing.”

One of your hands moves over to lightly trail over your son's figure. You meet his eyes and a loud cry breaks from your lips at the twinkles of love and softness in his.

“I love you.” He rests his forehead against yours and you both close your eyes. “You’re too good for me.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Next Part: Daylight

Okay so now I have the deadly case of baby fever. (because I obviously didnt have it before)

Anyway, I had alot of fun writing this one and I hope you guys liked it!

Love you all, Lordy :)

Masterlist

Taglist: @ficthots @along-the-lines-of-space

If you want to be added to my taglist, just give me a holler! :)

#din djarin #din djarin x you #din djarin x reader #mando #mando x reader #mandalorian x reader #the mandalorian #the mandalorian x reader #anon reply #baby fever #tw: child #tw: pregnancy #tw: birth

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cilldaracailin · 4 years ago

Text

Crazy Little Thing Called Love

Hello my Tumblr Lovelys!

Yeah I haven’t posted twice in a row in a very long time, but I missed posting one of the days this week so I am making up for that.

Thank you as always for all the wonderful comments, love, likes and reads. They are all so very much appreciated!

Hope you all enjoy this one too.

Suze xx :)

“That's the problem with best friends. Sometimes they know you better than you know yourself.”

His nap was perfect and when he woke up, he was curled up against Robyn, his head on her lap as she sat on the corner of the couch, her legs stretched out in front of her. Her hand was curled around his waist and he could feel the tight grip with which she held him and he had no complaints about it at all. He could feel his cheeks tint a little when he felt his new sleeping position on her, realising he must have moved in his sleep and his left arm was now across her legs, his hand flat on her upper thigh under her skirt. It was just a little bit overly intimate for him and he moved his hand in what he was hoped was a not too obvious speed, using a long stretch and yawn as an excuse to move fully from her, a light groan coming from him as his body woke up.

“It will take more than a three-hour nap for you to look any less tired.” Robyn commented as he ran his hands over his face as he settled to sit beside her.

“Robyn this is a look you are going to have to get used to seeing over the next two months and I know you don’t like it but unfortunately it’s gonna be my face for a while.”

“I like your face I just don’t like these.” She reached over and traced the dark circles under his eyes.

“They come with my face and my face has to go on tour with me so it is just the way it has to be. Please be forewarned that at the premier, I am going to be tired. London is the last one and last part of the promotion so I will hit a wall quickly once the after party is done.” He smiled at her frown. “Just the…”

“Way it is, yeah I know.” She sighed. “Well at least you can sleep all day Saturday.”

“I am not going to lie, it is probably what I am going to do. The Monday after, I am straight into filming for the new movie.”

“You never stop do you.”

“Not really no.”

Robyn sighed again. “Do you know where you are filming yet?”

“Matthew has some people out scouting locations at the moment but right now I have no idea where we are going to end up.”

“It’s very selfish of me to say, but I hope it’s not too far away from Kilcreen.”

“So not America.”

She shook her head. “No not America. I still want to be able to come and see you.”

“Well I shall have a word with Matthew for you.”

“Thanks Taron and we are going to have to get you a new shamrock for your cheek.” She dragged a finger down the tear stained shamrock on his cheek.

“You too.”

“So shall we go and do that and get ready to go for dinner?”

“Sounds like a plan.”

Once they had freshened up and tattoos had been replaced, they left Robyn’s home, Taron with his flag around his shoulders again, and walked towards the small gap in the hedge to get into Kilcreen GAA grounds. Robyn said hello to the people she knew as she walked by, Taron keeping close to her nodding to those Robyn greeted. Kilcreen GAA club house was almost heaving with excited punters, enjoying their national holiday. Thankfully though, even with the larger crowd, Robyn and Taron had no problems finding a table in the lounge, Taron quite relieved it was a table for two right at the back in a little corner and he sat in beside Robyn on the soft furnishings so he could watch everything going on around him. He still felt comfortable and not worried about being overly noticed and as always he felt safe with Robyn. He picked up the menu from the table and scanned over the options, feeling his stomach grumbling. It had been a long time since his breakfast of Irish pancakes and he was ready to for some food.

“So, what is good here.” He asked her.

“Everything.”

“That’s not helpful Robyn.”

“Well because it is St Patrick’s Day and as you want to have a thorough Irish experience, you should get the bacon and cabbage. Proper Irish food though the…”

“Sold. Bacon and cabbage it is.” Taron put his menu back down.

“That easy huh?”

“Yep. So what are you going to have?”

Robyn scanned the menu. “Think I am going to have the lasagne.”

“That is Italian food not Irish food.”

“Taron, I can have bacon and cabbage whenever I want. I just need to go home to my mam’s house and volá, Irish dinner.”

“Lasagne is not Irish food though.”

The server came over and once they had ordered, Taron making sure to get his drink of choice in too, they sat back against the seat, close together watching the customers in front of them enjoying the evening out.

“So I gave you some warning about my friends, do I need something similar?”

“Well you already met Claire.”

“Aww yes Claire. She liked to smell my hoodie.” He replied with a grin.

Robyn didn’t answer straight away as the server came back with Robyn’s glass of water and bottle of cider and Taron’s Guinness.

“All of the rules have been covered now chicken.” Taron took a drink from his glass. “I wore green, I didn’t say any stereotypical catchphrases and I got my Guinness.”

“And you had a duck in the race.”

“And won!”

“And won.” Robyn repeated as she took a drink from her own glass. Every time they saw each other, they went on a serious emotional roller coaster. One minute they were laughing with each other and the next one of them either cried or needed a serious hug and pep talk and Robyn was finding it hard to keep up with it all but she was so thankful for him. She couldn’t have asked for a better supportive reaction from him once he had learnt about her failed relationship and as he sat right beside her, his left leg was snug against her right and she didn’t know if it was because he felt a little nervous being so out in the open in a very busy pub or because he wanted to just keep her close to him and whichever reason it was, she was glad for the closeness. She had said it to herself so many times but the man sitting beside her was becoming a tidal wave in her life and every moment she spent with him, she was willing to have him wash over her and she was feeling still a little emotional charged so slipped her hand into his under the table, smiling at the squeeze he gave her.

“So I am already on my guard about Claire possibly smelling my shirt, anyone else I should be wary of?”

“You have already met Emma.”

“Briefly.”

“Well Emma will be there and her husband Tommy. I don’t think you need to be worried about her. She forgave me for going to see you in New York.” Robyn took a quick intake of breath when she realised what she had said and grimaced as she took in his face of surprise. “Ahh shit.”

“Ahh shit? What have you been keeping from me?” He felt her reach over and used her free hand to encase his hand that she was already holding and rubbed over his knuckles using her thumbs. “And hand massages are not going to distract me. Robyn, tell me because if Emma is going to look at me weird for the whole evening I should probably know why.”

“I told Emma I was sick and at home in bed when I was actually getting on a plane to go and see you in New York and obviously because she is Emma and my manager, she found out. Wasn’t super happy with me.”

“Is that why one of the terms and conditions on my voucher book was to make sure I gave you enough notice so you could take time off work if we did something together?”

“Pretty much.”

“Robyn…”

“You don’t have to say anything Taron. Emma said enough and she is not going to look at you weird. It was a lecture I was given the next day in the office and it wasn’t mentioned again. Emma knows all about you and me and what happened between us and she understood why I did what I did and was a supportive friend but as a manager, she had to have her say too. There is going to be no weirdness at the céilí, I promise and I have been the best employee since.”

Taron didn’t look too convinced but he nodded. “Ok so two more women I need to look out for.” Robyn frowned at him and he smiled at her. “So Claire, Emma and Tommy. Anyone else?”

“Shane and Darragh.” She heard him repeat the two names. “Shane is a childhood friend of mine and Claire’s and Darragh is his husband. Such a gorgeous couple. Good fun and always up for a laugh. I think you will get on well with them.”

“Ok Shane and Darragh.”

“And then there is Nick, who is Claire’s current crush.” A wonderful wicked smile filled Taron’s face. “And I am so glad you are on the same page as me with this one. She is disgusted at me that I asked him to come along but I know I am going to enjoy the evening a lot.”

“Oh me too Robyn and you know Nick how?”

“He’s in the gospel choir. He’s a good friend of mine.”

“Are you up to some match making this evening?” Grinned Taron.

“Maybe a little bit. Hoping you might help me.”

“With pleasure.”

“I am sure just like your friends, there is going to be that teasing element at the beginning and a few smart remarks thrown in for good measure too but they are a good group of friends and have been good to me over the last few years.”

“I have some comebacks in my back pocket for when I need them. Now we need to talk about the dancing.”

“The dancing.”

“I am not a great dancer.”

“Do I really need to go back to the Rocketman movie to prove you wrong? Or mention New Year’s?”

“That was scripted and taught dancing and New Year’s was just dancing. I am not a great dancer.”

“You don’t need to be.”

“Robyn you are bringing me to a céilí which is a very specific kind of dance.”

“It is so easy Taron. All the dances are based on a four four timing and it’s just a lot of spinning and crossing places and moving in circles and don’t look at me like that. I know you understand what four four timing is.”

“Yeah that’s the part I understood. The rest I am a bit unsure of.”

“Not every Irish person comes out of the womb with the ability to Irish dance. Most of the people going will never have been to a céilí before and there will be instructions for each dance too. You won’t be expected to stand up and know what to do. Even I don’t know what to do.”

“You are a bad liar.”

“There is one go to céilí dance that every Irish person has an idea of but honestly, I haven’t a clue otherwise. I just know it’s going to be a whole load of fun and very Irish and I intend to fully deliver on my promise of a thorough Irish day and experience for you.”

Taron was ready to respond and tell her she had most definitely so far fulfilled the brief of being Irish for the day but the server came over to their table with their meals and he was completely distracted as his food was placed in front of him.

“Need anything Robyn?”

“No thanks Sally. We are all good.”

“Well enjoy your meal.”

“Do you know everyone in this town?” Asked Taron as he unfolded his knife and fork.

“It’s a small town.”

“But yet everyone is so respectful.”

“What do you mean?” She asked him as she shook some salt over the chips that came with her meal, pushing them between herself and Taron knowing he was going to want some.

“I haven’t missed the looks I have been getting.”

“Looks?”

“A lot of people either know who I am or just find you with a man very interesting.”

“I am going to go with that second option. Like I said small town. Kinda hard to keep your private business that private but then again, I have already told you that the Irish are very civil towards celebrities. Wouldn’t normally go up to them.”

“I like it here.” Taron tried some of his dinner. “And oh my goodness this is delicious.”

“As I told you earlier Taron. Kilcreen is your little bubble.”

She only saw Taron nod from the corner of her eye and concentrated on tucking into her own dinner. She was so glad she came from a small town and that she could give Taron complete peace of mind when he came to see her, knowing that he was safe from prying eyes and those who did question it, kept it to themselves and if they did recognise him, didn’t take it any further than knowing who he was and leaving it at that. It was something she had always wanted for Taron and knew although he might not say it out loud, very much appreciated the freedom he had with her just to be himself and not worry about being approached.

Just before nine, Taron was happily finishing off his second glass of Guinness and waiting for Robyn to return from the bathroom. The lounge had emptied a little, a lot of the customers heading to the céilí but the tables were still pretty full, the chat loud and happy around him. Apart from being home in Aberystwyth or a private event, sitting comfortably in a pub was not something he got to experience so peacefully very often and he was very much taking in the easy-going atmosphere and mood. He saw Robyn heading back his way but she was stopped at a table three down from where they were sitting to talk to the people sitting at it. He watched her interaction with them, her face in a smile, then a grin and then a full laugh and it made him smile. He liked it when she was happy.

“What are you grinning at?” She asked him as she walked over to the table.

“You.” He answered honestly.

“Me?”

“Yep.”

“Care to elaborate?”

“Nope.”

Robyn raised an eyebrow at him and watched as he drained the last of his drink. “Ok well are you ready to get those dancing feet going?”

“As I will ever be.” Taron shuffled out of the seat bringing their jackets and his flag with him. “Just need to pay for dinner.”

“Already done.”

“Robyn.” She heard the warning tone in his voice.

“I used the money from the duck race.”

She took his hand on her left shoulder as she walked through the lounge as a sign of agreement and made her way to the double doors and out into the hallway before taking a right turn towards the gymnasium. Once out of the lounge, Taron had let go of her shoulder and walked beside her, both stopping at the table in the hallway.

“Hey Robyn.” Greeted the man at the table.

“Hey Ray.”

“Two?”

“Already have my tickets.” Robyn routed the green tickets from her bag and handed them over. “Here ya go.”

“Perfect.” He stamped the inside of their wrists with a little green shamrock stamp, Robyn watching from the corner of her eyes at how Taron’s face lit up at the stamp. “Just so you can come and go as you please. Sit where you want, though I am sure I have already seen Claire inside.”

“Thanks Ray.”

Taron opened the door for her, letting her into the gymnasium of the club house first. “Seriously Robyn. You know everyone in this town.”

She just smiled at him as she walked by and once they were inside the large gym, she could hear the chuckle come from him. The white awning that was used for parties and wedding receptions had been set up and green lights flooded the place, making the white glow bright green. Irish flags and bunting covered the uppermost edge of the awning and that traditional Irish music was playing through the speakers. The tables were arranged all around the walls so there was a large space in the middle of the floor for the céilí to take place and each table had a centre piece with an Irish flag and green, white and orange helium balloons.

“Well I have stepped into every stereotypical Irish movie ever!” He grinned. “So now I get to use all those phrases!”

“Absolutely not!” She replied. “Only the Irish can get away with this, otherwise we take full offense.”

“Well me and my flag fit right in!”

With a shake of her head, she took his hand and led him around and through tables and over towards where she had caught a glimpse of Claire. The table her friend had picked was at the back on the left hand-side, a snug little table set up for eight people, just as Robyn had asked her to do, wanting to make sure that if he needed, Taron could have a table away from the dance floor and crowds.

“Robyn!” Claire cried getting up with her arms out ready to hug her friend. It was a tight little hug and her friend kept her mouth close to her ear so she could whisper to her. “He actually came?”

“Of course he did.”

“How is he?”

“Tired.”

“And…”

“And he learnt about Keith this evening.” Claire let go of Robyn and stared at her, her mouth dropping open. “And that is a wonderful impression of a fish there Claire.” Robyn turned a little and reached for Taron’s hand and he came to stand beside her. “You already know Claire.”

“Well hello again.”

“Hello to you too. So, we have moved on from flour to an all green look?” Questioned Claire, dropping the sudden news Robyn had just given her, knowing she would have to wait until she was alone with her friend to talk to her about it.

“It’s St Patrick’s Day.” He answered simply.

“Do you have any control over him?” Claire asked her friend.

“None what so ever and moving on.”

Robyn walked Taron around Claire so they could stand at the table of people who were waiting their turn for an introduction. “And this is Emma who you have already met and her husband Tommy.”

“Hi Emma.” Taron moved over to her and leaning forward took her in for a quick hug and kiss on her cheek. “Sorry about New York.” He whispered into her ear. “It’s nice to see you again.”

“You too Taron.” Emma didn’t reply to his whisper but lingered with a return kiss to his cheek instead, glad when he was giving a smile as their hug ended.

“Tommy.” Taron reached over to shake his hand.

“And then on the opposite side, Shane and Darragh.” Robyn had her male friends warned to keep their hands to themselves and as Taron walked around to greet them, she gave Shane a look that screamed behave and she frowned at the wink he gave back to her.

“Nice to meet you both too.” Taron wasn’t really surprised by the hugs and kiss on his cheek he got from them and was sure Shane’s hands were lower than was needed for an initial meet but he let it slide.

“And then there is Nick.”

It was a more manly handshake he got from the last person at the table. “I saw you in the crowd earlier when the choir was preforming.”

“Yeah I was there. You did a wonderful version of Tiny Dancer.”

“Thanks so much. Not too sure if it compares to yours though.”

“Thanks Nick but really not much of a comparison. Two different takes on the song.”

Robyn came to stand beside him. “And that is everyone.”

“Well this was a much more civil introduction compared to when you met my friends.” He said as he put their coats on the back of one of the chairs, folding the flag over them.

“Oh just give it time Taron.”

As Taron took a seat next to Nick, Claire decided it was the perfect time to drag Robyn away, using the excuse of needing to get a round of drinks in at the bar.

“Just let me make sure he is…”

“He is grand Robyn. Shane will look after him.”

“Jesus Claire, did you see how low his hand went on Taron’s back?” Robyn had no choice but to be pulled along by her friend, taking a glance back to Taron who smiled at her and nodded, turning his attention back to Nick who had sprung up a conversation with him.

“Oh I saw but what I need to know is, how low have your hands have gone.”

“Fuck’s sake Claire, are you really asking me that?” Robyn stopped on the middle of the dance floor so she could glare at her friend.

“Friends share.” Claire grabbed her hand once more and they made their way to the bar.

“And my hands have not touched that man.” Robyn and Claire stood stopped to stand in the line waiting to get to the bar. “Well actually that’s not entirely true.”

Claire turned so suddenly; Robyn had to grab her shoulders to stop her friend from falling over on her heels. “Robyn Quinn, you give me more details now or I go back there and grill him about everything.”

Robyn chuckled but also knew her friend was serious. “I gave him a shoulder massage in London last month. He had a bad fall on set a few days before and was a little tender.” Robyn had filled her friend in on most of the details with her weekend with Taron but had left some out.

“You gave him a massage!”

Robyn gave her friend a little push as the line for the bar moved. “He brought a voucher with him.”

Claire grinned. “Oh, so he is using that book to his full advantage. I need more details Robyn. What does his skin feel like?”

“Claire…” Robyn’s tone was playful but she knew where her friend was quickly going with her questions.

“Get a new blusher?” Claire asked her grinning. “Your cheeks a little pinker than normal.”

“Soft and warm.” Robyn said quickly and then she sighed. “And oh Claire… I could feel the tightness of his muscles under my hands, the strength in his shoulders and arms and every now and again he would make this sound when I rubbed a particularly tender spot.”

“Keep talking.”

“Then I pulled his body back to me so he could just lean against me and I got to his head again.”

“You and his bloody head and hair.”

“Not just his head. Forehead, eyebrows, nose and cheeks.”

“Jesus Robyn, I want one of those.”

Robyn smiled. “It’s his favourite thing in the whole world and I love giving them to him because I can just see him visibly relax under my hands.” Robyn bit her lip and looked to her friend. Claire had been her best friend since they were kids and they told each other everything, the brunette being a huge crutch for her over the last few years. She knew she could trust her with the most personal details of her time with Taron. “He just happened to be shirtless during that head massage and I might have run my hands down his chest too a few times.”

It took Claire a few seconds to answer her. “Did he say anything to you?”

“Nope. Let me do it.”

“You know he is absolutely crazy about you Robyn.”

“He let me do it because he knows it’s where my hands were last year when I gave him the CPR.”

“And?”

“Details!” Claire said excitedly.

Robyn slightly rolled her eyes at her friend. “I just like feeling his heart beat under my hands.”

“Yeah and touching his body.”

Robyn could feel the heat in her cheeks. “Fine and touching his body. You know what his outfit on New Year’s Eve did to me. That boy knows how to dress but Claire, even the skin on his chest is soft and warm. The whole man is just like a soft and warm blanket.”

“And the chest hair?”

Robyn didn’t answer Claire and avoided her eyes for a few seconds, stepping around her as the line for the bar moved again.

“I will get an answer from you eventually about that chest hair Robyn. You know I will.” Claire came to stand beside her friend. “So, has he enjoyed his day?”

“Fucking won the duck race!” Robyn groaned, making Claire laugh. “And yeah I think so. He is just knackered.”

“He looks it and I heard about the duck race. I met Jane down the town. She was a little excited to have and I quote her ‘met that sex God that is utterly in love with Robyn’.”

“I am so glad I dragged Taron away from her.” Robyn said, ignoring the second half of Claire’s sentence.

“So, you told him about Keith then.” The two girls were three customers away from the bar and Claire couldn’t hold the topic in any more. She had to know.

“That was my mother, not me.”

“Called him a fucker?” Asked Claire.

“Yep.”

“How did he take it?”

“Pretty well actually but at the same time Claire it was horrible and not because Taron wasn’t disgusted at Keith. Believe me he was but because he felt so guilty for what happened with the media and me going to New York and was so worried that his actions had opened up healed feelings for me. He was so upset. He is still carrying so much guilt over it all but we talked it through again and I think at last we have put it behind us.”

“Not something he was expecting to hear. Keith the fucking gobshite.” Fumed Claire.

“No I think not and although I saw the flare of anger in his eyes, it honestly did not last long at all. That man is still traumatised by what happened in New York.

“Robyn you flew to his set and confronted him, yelling at him. Of course he is.”

Robyn cringed. “I don’t want him to feel like that anymore. I have told him so and we have done so much together since New York, I thought he had put it behind him. I pray he listened to me this time. I really don’t want to see those puppy dog eyes from him again or the tears in them.”

“Tears?”

“He’s wears his emotions on his sleeve with those he fully trusts and to be honest I think he is just so exhausted that he couldn’t help himself. I would say on another day, the anger would have come to the forefront but instead today it was him going over how much he had hurt me.”

“Have I told you yet that he loves you?”

“He does not.”

“Yes, he does. He put his anger for what that bastard did to the side and instead concentrated on how his reaction to the media hurt you and when he heard about Keith it just pushed him over the edge a little and he became concerned that he had further upset and hurt you.”

“A little concerned.”

“And he loves you.” Claire frowned as the blonde scoffed at her. “Robyn that man hasn’t taken his eyes off you since we joined this queue. I can see him from here looking at you. You pulled out the short skirt and cropped top for him?”

“It’s my St Patrick’s Day skirt. It’s green.”

“I have never seen you in this skirt before. I don’t even think I have seen this skirt before and you in a crop top? With a pair of high waisted jeans, sure but with some skin on show? You Robyn Quinn are as head over heels in love with that man as much as he is with you and don’t shake your head at me. Robyn, he came over to see you for two nights! You went to him for New Year’s Eve and you kissed him!”

“He kissed me.”

“No, you kissed him.”

“In Aber yeah but he kissed me this evening.”

Claire stood staring at her friend. “So, what is that four now?”

“Five.” Robyn whispered quietly.

“Please explain to me once again about his kisses. Let me live vicariously through you.”

Robyn automatically bit her bottom lip, her hands running through hair. “So soft, very quick and almost reluctant and even his lips are warm.”

Claire dramatically placed her arm on her forehead. “Oh, dear God you are killing me.” Claire took her arm away from her forehead and looked to her friend very seriously. “If you don’t go over there, sit on his on lap, grab him by his collar and kiss him hard, while dragging your hands through his hair, I am going to scream at you. That man needs to be kissed stupid and you need to be the one to do it.”

“Claire…”

“Oh, don’t Claire me! Blah blah blah, we are friend’s blah blah blah. Shut the fuck up Robyn. I know you and I know you are so guarded when it comes to the opposite sex but Taron, he is someone you can absolutely trust.”

“I do trust him.”

“Then fucking go and kiss him!” Claire’s voice was a little louder than she intended and Robyn groaned, praying her words didn’t carry to Taron. “Forget about the distance, forget about his job and media and think about him and what he deserves and needs and what you absolutely need. I just want you to be happy.” Claire threw her arm around Robyn, giving her a squeeze. “He would make you so happy Robyn.”

“He does.”

“And it could be so much more.” Robyn sighed against her friend. “He is going home tomorrow.”

“Yep.”

“When do you get to see him again?”

“He is coming to see me in RENT and then he invited me to go to his premier for Kingsman yesterday. That’s the end of April.”

Claire let her friend go and grinned. “Fucking hell that man is keen. Another fancy dress with a low neck line?” She winked laughing as Robyn rolled her eyes. “Hey you told me he was the one who picked that dress for you and you wore it.”

“And he has been warned. Stella, his stylist will be helping him.”

Claire shook her head but smiled at her. “Life of luxury now Robyn.”

“It is not about that.” Robyn replied a little sternly.

“I know that Robyn and I know you would never take advantage of him. You have done nothing but look after him and he had better be doing the same for you.”

“He does. It just so happens that his life is a little more extravagant than mine in some ways but Taron loves nothing more than a cuddle on the couch.”

Claire chuckled. “Had your cuddle yet today?” She asked as they reached the bar.

“In fact, I did. Taron had a little nap before we came out for dinner.”

“And where did his head end up?”

Robyn didn’t answer her friend but gave her order of drinks to the barman, ordering a bottle of corona for Taron, a cider for her and two pint glasses of water. Despite her teasing, Robyn knew Claire only wanted the best for her and always had her best interests at heart and as she spoke jokingly about Taron, she had the upmost respect for him and as she felt Claire hug her from behind, she knew it was just a bit of banter between them.

“You deserve a man who will love everything about you and Taron is that man. I can see it. I just want you to be ridiculously happy and if that sex God can do it, then I am routing for you both.”

Robyn took Claire’s hands away from her waist and turned to look at her. “I know Claire and thank you but please don’t call him a sex God to his face.”

“Even if you are thinking it.” She winked.

“And while we are on the topic of sex God’s, how’s Nick?”

“I am still pissed at your for inviting him but he is so gorgeous in his green shirt and jeans and he has his hair in that sideways part and…”

“And you need to go and sit on his lap and kiss him stupid.” Laughed Robyn. “You know I have the inside scoop Claire. Maybe he might be feeling the same.”

“Don’t you even tempt faith.”

“Only returning the advice.” Robyn said handing her money over to the barman as he brought back her drinks. “Hey Claire. Speaking of faith and ya know the good old tradition of Irish slagging, can you go easy on Taron please? Normally he would be up for a good laugh but he is so tired and running on empty let’s take it down a notch ok? I already have to be on my guard with Shane, I need you helping me. I actually want him to come back for a visit, not run for the hills.”

Seeing the slight begging in her eyes and knowing Robyn was prepared for some teasing over Taron, Claire nodded. “Sure. I’ll tone it down.”

“Right down Claire. I happily would have left him sleeping but neither him or you would have agreed to that.”

“I promise Robyn. I know how much he means to you and I can see it on his face that he is tired.”

“Thanks Claire.”

“But…”

“No buts. I have a Nick to threaten you with.”

Claire’s eyes opened wide. “Ok so I have your back with Taron then.”

“Thank you. Claire you do realise you and Nick are going to have to be partners for the dancing right? I mean Emma has Tommy, Shane has been giggly with excitement since we got the tickets to dance with Darragh and well Taron is with me, so that only leaves Nick for you.”

With a wink to her friend who only then realised the position she was in, Robyn picked up her four glasses and made her way back to the table, a small smile on her face as she walked thinking over Claire’s words, happy she was going to give the teasing and slagging a rest. It meant she really only had to keep a closer eye on Shane throughout the night, knowing he was going to come out with all guns blazing, having just the smallest crush on Taron, despite being married to the love of his life for the last three years.

#Taron Egerton #Taron Egerton Fanfiction #Taron Egerton Fanfic #Taron Fanfic #Friends #Love #Cuddles #Sleep #St. Patrick's Day #Guinness #Céilí #Dancing #Friendship #Girl Talk #Laughter #Robyn and Taron #being irish

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jamesworrell007 · 4 years ago

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Best Restaurant to Eat in with Family in Bangkok

Bangkok has consistently been a foodie heaven, with knockout dinners on pretty much every square. While the road food here is still best in class, the city has likewise rethought itself as of late with an extraordinary cluster of top notch food alternatives and incredible connoisseur choices from around the world. Indian Chef Garima Arora will astonish your sense of taste with lovely takes on Asian charge utilizing the freshest privately sourced fixings at the honor winning Gaa, while Thai cook Bee Satongun has won culinary expert of the year respects just as being granted a Michelin star for her brilliant real Thai manifestations at Paste. Mezzaluna, set 65 stories up at the Lebua, has Bangkok's best view, however it additionally has 2 Michelin stars and the honor winning food of Japanese cook Ryuki Kawasaki. Other really great Thai-impacted spots incorporate the interesting manifestations at Canvas and the extraordinary Thai tasting menu at Saawaan. For valid elusive Thai dishes at exceptionally reasonable costs, both Supanniga and The Local are the best places around, and on the off chance that you need Isaan northeastern flavor, head to consistently packed Baan Som Tam.

It's not just Thai food that guests are coming to Bangkok for the time being however. Notwithstanding Gaa, Japanese highlights profoundly on the Bangkok menu. For innovative sushi, Isao will take your breath away and is most likely the lone eatery in Bangkok that has a line out the entryway 365 days per year. There are a large number of Italian spots to look over, however for a genuine trattoria, head to Appia. For French, Le Normandie not just serves the best haute food French for a significant distance, yet it additionally has two Michelin stars. You most unquestionably will not be going hungry in this city.

Also Check out Bangkok Pet Friendly Apartments for Rent

Canvas - THONGLOR

Material, granted a Michelin star in the most recent (second) release of the Michelin Bangkok Guide, features privately sourced Thai fixings, a considerable lot of which coffee shops may not be comfortable with, presenting great six and nine-course tasting menus of nearby top choices that have been given a global contort utilizing reformist cooking techniques. The eatery additionally features the incredible culinary abilities of Chef Riley Sanders, who along with a heavenly and efficient group, runs an amazing open kitchen, getting burger joints one of Bangkok's best gastronomic encounters.

Sanders hails from Texas, and after a stretch at the famous Uchiko Japanese combination café in Austin, went to work with 3-star Michelin Chef Laurent Gras at the eminent L20 in Chicago. Be that as it may, following this he shunned ascending the conventional stepping stool and rather got a position cooking on a personal ship, where he was given free imaginative reach in the kitchen, permitting him to sharpen his specialty considerably more. All the more significantly, the work gave Sanders both the time and cash to travel, his other energy, and he left out traveling all throughout the planet, tasting his way through business sectors, road food, and fancy foundations everywhere on the globe.

Material is the result of Sanders being attracted to Bangkok and its astounding culinary culture, and he's raised neighborhood and regularly exceptional fixings higher than ever. Take the soy-smoked ruler mackerel arranged sous vide and presented with an orgasmic glue made of subterranean insect eggs, dill, and horseradish. Sanders says that this was enlivened by Western "shrimp and steak" menus, just here transforming the mackerel into the "surf" joined with one of Thailand's most unordinary inland fixings, the subterranean insect eggs.

Sitting at the open counter here is a delight, as you will watch Sanders and his group in real life, just as being given the story behind each dish and its fixings as they are served. You discover that the heavenly frog comes from a homestead in Khao Yai and that the palatable blossoms presented with it are from Samut Prakhan (a territory adjoining Bangkok), and that the most delicious nectar you've at any point tasted (served on new gooseberries in season over sorbet) comes from stingless honey bees that are from Chantaburi, and produce an exceptionally thought sweet nectar.

Supper here is an otherworldly occasion where no one can tell what's coming straightaway. Take the "rice bread." Served as a modest canapé, this is really one of the menu knockouts and will leave you wishing you had a portion to bring home. Produced using natural rice from Surin Province, it's presented with earthy colored margarine and yellow stew emulsion, and finished off with salted egg yolk and toasted tacky rice. Light and delightful, Sanders says the thought behind it was to serve the Thai staple of rice as a variant of the Western staple of bread.

Most suitably named, Canvas includes a cook whose craftsman's range is a melange of tones, ensured to leave your sense of taste asking for additional, and is a most meriting passage into the Bangkok Michelin guide and foodie feasting scene that has cleared the city.

Suggested for Best Restaurants since: Canvas highlights Thai-impacted imaginative food made by a rising star youthful American gourmet specialist and is genuinely one of Bangkok's ideal.

Dave's master tip: Take the BTS Skytrain to Thonglor and afterward either stroll up Thonglor (Sukhumvit Soi 55) ten minutes to arrive or probably snatch a taxi. The café is soon after Thonglor Soi 5 on your lefthand side.

Glue BANGKOK - PATHUMWAN

Exemplary Thai food is eminent world over, yet once in a while does one discover it introduced in a particularly imaginative manner as at Paste. Glue Bangkok is the brainchild of Australian honor winning cook Jason Bailey and his Thai accomplice Bongkoch "Honey bee" Satongun, who got approval for their Thai cafés in Australia and afterward migrated to Bangkok, carrying innovative and quality food with them. Bailey presently centers around the business end and undertakings for Paste, while Satongun runs the kitchen, zeroing in on unique Thai flavors and surfaces, with fixings sourced straight from the producer and best business sectors in the country. The eatery got a Michelin star and Satongun has won gourmet specialist of the year praises to go with a large group of different honors. Customary Thai food is done here with lovely inventive turns and an absolute regard for taste blends enough to wow the most insightful coffee shop. Attempt the impeccable Andaman lobster with fresh fish skin or the watermelon and ground salmon with betel leaves and shallots, both are sublime. The café used to have a branch over on Sukhumvit 49, yet has moved to the luxurious Gaysorn Plaza, carrying some refined genuinely refined feasting to Bangkok's most exquisite mall.

Suggested for Best Restaurants on the grounds that: For genuinely creative and legitimate high end food Thai cooking, Paste sticks out.

Dave's master tip: Paste is situated on the third floor of the Gaysorn Plaza. Bring the immediate passage into Gaysorn from the Chidlom BTS skytrain station. Reservations are fundamental.

MEZZALUNA - BANGRAK

Mezzaluna is Bangkok's most chic eatery, and eating up here 65 stories over the Chao Phraya River and the Bangkok horizon is one of the top encounters one can have while around, particularly as the café has been granted two stars by the Bangkok Michelin guide, and highlights the sense of taste boggling cooking of gourmet expert Ryuki Kawasaki, who has monitored Michelin kitchens in France, the U.S., and his local Japan, and was named Chef of the Year by the Escoffier Society while working at Twist by Pierre Gagnaire in Las Vegas.

Assuming control over the rudder at Mezzaluna in 2015, Kawasaki has joined his standout French cooking procedures with the absolute most only sourced fixings to be found in Asia. Take the Niigata Murakami Wagyu meat for instance, which Kawasaki brings only to Thailand from Japan. The hamburger comes from a little variety of painstakingly chose, top notch calves from Niigata Prefecture, which are raised on rice straw, roughage, and premium compound feed, giving the meat a smooth surface and totally soften in the mouth taste. It is served here at Mezzaluna with dark truffles and barbecued over binchotan charcoal, and is the mark dish featuring an extraordinary seven-course tasting menu

Everything about the feasting experience at Mezzaluna is done to most extreme flawlessness. A flock of staff drifts around your table, never neglecting to see whether you need more bread or water, continually bringing sense of taste boosts before dishes, and giving itemized clarifications of the multitude of enamoring manifestations. A specialist sommelier comes out to clarify each wine matching presented with the food, giving the causes of each container, however praising its features and flavor profiles, and the basement here is one of the best taking all things together Bangkok, with a few of the wines served being select to Mezzaluna.

The menu at Mezzaluna is occasional, changing like clockwork, despite the fact that dishes like the Wagyu meat are constantly highlighted. Gourmet specialist Kawasaki says, "My enthusiasm is to make encounters that rouse and leave enduring recollections for individuals I share them with, and our culinary excursion at Mezzaluna comprises of different surfaces, flavors, artisinal occasional items, and cooking procedures."

This is a whole eating experience at its best, from gourmet expert to worker to table to the mood. Now, the sky (and potentially even a pined for third star) is the breaking point for Mezzaluna and its elite player culinary expert.

Suggested for Best Restaurants in light of the fact that: For Bangkok's most exquisite high as can be Michelin-granted greatness, you can't top Mezzaluna

Dave's master tip: Reservations are fundamental here, and it merits coming right on time for a nightfall drink at the Distil Bar, found just beneath the Mezzaluna.

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highbuttonsports · 4 years ago

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PREVIEW: NHL’s Scotia North Division

The 2021 NHL season is finally here, and it will be special for Canadian hockey fans. All seven teams are loaded into one division to abide by government mandated travel restrictions. This means we will have intense rivalries renewed 8-10 times this year, and I can’t wait for the chaos. So let’s take a look at how I see each team faring, and the storylines to watch as this unprecedented 56 game schedule begins.

Ottawa Senators

Rank: 7th

MVP: Brady Tkachuk

Best Off-Season Addition: Evgenii Dadonov

Biggest Off-Season Loss: Anthony Duclair

Sleeper Star: Matt Murray

The Sens are coming off a tough 25-34-12 season that ranked second worst in the NHL. There were not a lot of positives other than landing Tim Stüzle with the third overall pick in the draft. This season I expect to see them take a step forward as they continue to rebuild, but unfortunately they are stuck in a division that is loaded with win-now teams and it will be tough for them to win on a consistent basis.

Forwards

Up front Tkachuk and Dadonov will provide a solid offensive output, and Stüzle brings a lot of potential, but once again, depth is an issue. There is potential for some surprises if Alex Galchenyuk somehow finds his game and becomes the player he was once hoped to be, and Derek Stepan could return miraculously to his prime and perform to the standard his contract says he should, but I find that hard to see happening.

Defencemen

Their biggest question mark lies on the blueline, as after the top pair of Chabot-Gudbranson, there is not much. Chabot is a stud and I expect to compete for Norris trophies in his career, but unfortunately he can’t play sixty minutes a night, and with a condensed schedule he will likely see the ice even less per game.

Goalies

Ottawa’s GM Pierre Dorion did make a solid move this offseason acquiring Stanley Cup champion Matt Murray to guard their crease. Murray posted a .899 save percentage last season which needs to be improved upon if the Sens have any chance of stealing some games this year. If he can return to the Matt Murray he was before injury problems, however, he could be an X-factor for the Sens. Behind him will likely be Marcus Hogberg who posted a .904 save percentage and a 3.12 GAA last year in 24 games with the Sens. Those numbers aren’t outstanding but if he can improve off of that he will be a great backup and potentially a starting goalie in the near future.

Who to Watch

Without a doubt Tim Stüzle is the player to watch this year in Ottawa. He will likely be in contention for the Calder, and if the World Juniors were any indication, this kid is the real deal. Physicality of the NHL may be a potential weakness, but it will certainly be interesting to see how it plays out.

Edmonton Oilers

Rank: 6th

MVP: Connor McDavid

Best Off-Season Addition: Tyson Barrie

Biggest Off-Season Loss: Andreas Athanasiou

Sleeper Star: Jesse Puljujarvi

Oilers fans certainly will not be happy with being ranked this low. Connor McDavid is often considered the best player in the world, Leon Draisaitl is coming off a season where he won the Hart Trophy as league MVP. Surely that would be enough to finish higher than sixth in a division, right? No. There are too many question marks everywhere to be considered a legitimate contender, very average depth and below-average goaltending. I could be wrong, and if any team surprises me this year I expect it to be Edmonton, however as of right now, I have many doubts.

Forwards

Draisaitl and McDavid are one of the best one-two punches in the league, but this year they’re expected to do so on different lines. With Kyle Turris as their third line center that is the position which they show the most depth and promise, but unfortunately that is the only depth. Jesse Puljujarvi is returning from Finland and sliding onto the top line with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, however neither of those guys have proven they can produce at the rate you want a 1st line to produce. Playing with McDavid will certainly help, and they are both former top five picks in the draft, but McDavid cannot carry the team by himself if they expect to make the playoffs. The second line consists of Dominik Kahun and Kailer Yamamoto on Draisaitl’s wings, and once again, it’s one superstar between two unproven wingers.

Defencemen

The Oilers are thin on the blueline with Oscar Klefbom out for the season. Darnell Nurse is solid but not a top pairing guy just yet. He’s forced into Klefbom’s top spot alongside either Ethan Bear or Tyson Barrie, both have potential to have breakout seasons, as Bear is still 23 and Barrie is out of the limelight that the Leafs put on him, looking to return to the production and success he had in Colorado. Kris Russell and Adam Larsson make up the third pair, which is actually a solid shutdown tandem, but paying 8 million to your bottom two D-men is not ideal. To sum up this defensive core: Good, not great, top to bottom.

Goalies

Koskinen and Smith are not good enough goalies to win games. They are both at best backup goaltenders in this league, and with the schedule’s series-like format they will likely split most games, and that is a big concern for Edmonton, and ultimately what I see as their downfall.

Who to Watch

Kailer Yamamoto alongside Leon Draisaitl could turn into something special. Coming off a season where Yamamoto scored 31 points in 53 games, he could potentially improve on those numbers with a 56 game season. Anywhere above the 40 point plateau would be a success.

Winnipeg Jets

Rank: 5th

MVP: Connor Hellybuyck

Best Off-Season Addition: Paul Satstny

Biggest Off-Season Loss: Dustin Byfuglien

Sleeper Star: Josh Morissey

Last year the Jets finished 37-28-6, a record that would have been much worse without their netminder Connor Hellebuyck. It’s very rare to see a goalie in the Hart Trophy conversation but Hellebuyck brings exactly that. An elite top six forward group is what carries the offence, however the defensive core is weak, and Laurent Brossoit is a question mark on whether or not he can maintain consistent play as Hellebuyck’s backup. Depending on the Patrik Laine situation, they could turn him into a solid defenceman and end up winning the division. Time will tell.

Forwards

The Jets top line of Scheifele between Wheeler and Ehlers is elite and will steal them some games. The offence is deeper than that too. With a full schedule last season Kyle Connor would have finished with 40 goals, and as it sits right now, he plays on a line with former 40 goal scorer Patrik Laine. This high powered offence will surely be a key to their success.

Defencemen

Josh Morissey and Neal Pionk will have to have stellar seasons in order for the Jets to find success and make the playoffs this season. They don’t have a true #1 defenceman as of right now and their depth isn’t all that great either. It is possible that each defenceman in their top 4 have breakout years, but that is unlikely. Hellebuyck will likely be hung out to dry this year, and Jets fans better hope he’s ready.

Goalies

Connor Hellebuyck just won the vezina, and he may just have to do it again. With a weak defensive roster in front of him, he may be the Jets only ticket to the playoffs. It remains to be seen how much Paul Maurice will use Brossoit with the amount of back to backs on their schedule, but there’s no question his role will increase, and the Jets can’t afford to throw away games every time he’s between the pipes.

Who to Watch

The never-ending Patrik Laine saga continues in Winnipeg. He once had 44 goals in a season, but since then has struggled to find consistency. Rumblings of him wanting out of Winnipeg continue to flood the media and ultimately may serve as a distraction to the Jets the longer it goes on, similar to Byfuglien last season. It may be in their best interest to flip him for a defenceman now, or decide firmly that they’ll keep him and hope for 40 goals per year. They should stop delaying their decision, whatever it may be.

Montreal Canadiens

Rank: 4th

MVP: Carey Price

Best Off-Season Addition: Tyler Toffoli

Biggest Off-Season Loss: Max Domi

Sleeper Star: Josh Anderson

Les Canadiens had a pretty busy offseason headlined by the Max Domi for Josh Anderson deal. Marc Bergevin did what he could to make his team tougher and a legitimate contender this year. A pretty solid forward group in front of a great top 4 on the back-end, not to mention Carey Price in goal, this team could surprise some people this year. If they do get into the playoffs, Carey can easily steal four rounds and they could find themselves hoisting a cup. He’s that good.

Forwards

The Habs have no superstars up front but they’re loaded with grit and have a few players that could blossom onto that star level. Johnathan Drouin is still too young to count out, and has shown flashes of greatness before, Nick Suzuki is their best prospect, Josh Anderson could sneakily put up 20 goals, same with Toffoli. Not to mention they’ve seen Gallagher put up 30 goals twice in his career. This is a very deep forward group that has the potential to be elite, but also could fail to find the back of the net. One or the other.

Defencemen

Ben Chiarot and Shea Weber are a great top pairing. Weber may not be the Norris candidate he once was, but he’s still an elite shut down guy who has all the tools to compete and bring leadership. Adding Joel Edmunson was a fantastic move, and Jeff Petry is coming off of a career year. With Romanov and Kulak rounding out the D-Core, there are a few unknowns, but once again, plenty of potential.

Goalies

Carey Price. That’s all I’ll say about him. Jake Allen has been a number one guy in the past and during the condensed regular season they can give Price some nights off to avoid overworking him in years past and prevent injuries. Depth will be key this year and the Habs arguably have the best tandem in the league.

Who to Watch

Josh Anderson’s seven year contract was scrutinized by hockey fans around the league (myself included), it will be interesting to see if he can live up to the 5.5 million AAV. If he can evolve his scoring touch, I think there’s a chance that this quietly becomes a steal because of the physical element he brings.

Vancouver Canucks

Rank: 3rd

MVP: Elias Pettersson

Best Off-Season Addition: Braden Holtby

Biggest Off-Season Loss: Jacob Markstrom

Sleeper Star: Brock Boeser

Another team that was busy this offseason, the Canucks lost several players but Jim Benning was very quick to replace them. Chemistry on the blueline could be interesting to see develop because of all the new faces, but I feel people are generally sleeping on this team. A young forward group that provides a little bit of everything, scoring, grit and it has remained mostly the same from their success last year, with a defensive core that is different, but still very good to go with it. On paper the roster may not scream contender, but they have all the tools to make up a great hockey team in my mind.

Forwards

Elias Pettersson is a top 5 scorer in this league and I will stand by that. He leads this offence that is very good. Bo Horvat broke out in the bubble and if that was any indication of what kind of player he truly is, Canucks fans are in for a treat. J.T. Miller was an all-star last year and despite starting the season on the COVID list he should produce upon his return. If Brock Boeser can return to what he was in 2017-19 scoring 25+ goals, the Canucks will have no shortage of goals to lead them to victory.

Defencemen

Quinn Hughes was runner-up for the calder last year and already is one of the league’s best D-Men. He will likely be paired with Nate Schmidt or their most recent signing Travis Hamonic, both of whom are good pickups by Vancouver. Alex Edler is quietly still a great shutdown guy as well. The only blemish on the blueline for the Canucks is Tyler Myers and his contract. He doesn’t need to get big minutes and can hide behind the other defencemen in front of him.

Goalies

Braden Holtby signed a 2 year contract with an AAV of 4.3 million this offseason, which some fans saw as an overpay after seeing Thatcher Demko shut the door for an injured Markstrom in the bubble last year. The reality is Demko hasn’t played a lot of games yet as he’s only ever been a backup. Signing Holtby, who despite a career-worst season last year, has been an elite goalie for nearly a decade. I expect Holtby to start as the number one guy, but worst case scenario, Demko gets molded into the go-to keeper by the end of the season.

Who to Watch

Quinn Hughes was elite last season and showed promise to become a future Norris Trophy winner. I’m curious to see if he runs into the dreaded ‘sophomore slump’ that many before him have. His success will likely have a huge impact on the Canucks success as a whole.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Rank: 2nd

MVP: Auston Matthews

Best Off-Season Addition: T.J. Brodie

Biggest Off-Season Loss: Kasperi Kapanen

Sleeper Star: William Nylander

The Maple Leafs are likely the most criticized franchise in the league and have one of the wildest fanbases. The reality is, they are good. This year they look more complete than they ever had in the Auston Matthews era, and their defencemen have improved via free agency and Frederik Andersen is still an all-star goalie. They have proven in the past they are solid in the regular season, but with the added leadership of Simmonds and Thornton they might have what it takes to win in the playof- Er, at least win a series.

Forwards

Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, John Tavares. One of the best “big threes” that the NHL has as far as forwards are concerned. William Nylander has a big contract, yes, but he quietly had 31 bingos last year, and I expect him to keep up, if not improve that scoring pace. Wayne Simmonds adds grit that this Leafs roster has needed so badly for years, and with additions like Jimmy Vesey and Jumbo Joe Thornton to round out their top nine, this roster finally looks like it’s deep enough to win.

Defencemen

Morgan Reilly may not have had his best season last year but he is still a top defender in the league, and now he finally has a partner. Although they didn’t get the right-handed shot they wanted, they got T.J. Brodie who plays the right side to complement Reilly’s offensive game style. Jake Muzzin will continue to be their stay-at-home guy, and with expected development of Dermott and Holl, the Leafs may finally have a decent top six here.

Goalies

Frederik Andersen is still an elite goalie despite Leafs fans trying to drive him out of town. He is the reason the Leafs won many games last year and I expect that to be the case this year. With upgrades in front of him and a solid backup in Jack Campbell to share the load of games, the netminders are far from a concern for Toronto. We’ve come a long way from the Bernier/Sparks tandem folks.

Who to Watch

Although he falls outside the lineup right now, with injuries expected this year I would keep and eye out for Nick Robertson to sneak in and compete for the Calder Trophy.

Calgary Flames

Rank: 1st

MVP: Matthew Tkachuk

Best Off-Season Addition: Jacob Markstrom

Biggest Off-Season Loss: T.J. Brodie

Sleeper Star: Elias Lindholm

The Flames are coming off a 36-27-7 season. Pretty good, but nothing spectacular. This year I’m expecting a huge jump for them. They added Jacob Markstrom who was nominated for the Vezina last year, Johnny Gaudreau should bounce back from a down year, (by his standards, otherwise solid) and their defensive core remains solid despite losing T.J. Brodie. They have a deep roster that brings toughness each night, similar to Montreal, but the Flames have more stars. This prediction is admittingly a bit of a reach, but I’m anticipating big seasons from Sean Monahan, Dillon Dube and Elias Lindholm. If that happens, the Flames are cup contenders.

Forwards

Matthew Tkachuk is absolutely electrifying. The touch of a goal scorer, the physicality of an enforcer, an all-around great player. On a line with Monahan and Gaudreau I expect all three of them to produce big numbers. Sam Bennett is arguably the best 4th line center in the league and that speaks to their depth, if they can get a breakout year out of Dillon Dube they will be a threat to score 5 every night.

Defencemen

Mark Giordano may be aging but as of today he is an elite defenceman. Rasumus Andersson is continuing to develop into a great top-pair guy, with Noah Hanifin right behind him. People often seem to forget Noah Hanifin is only 23, and isn’t even entering his prime yet. He will be an all-star one day and I believe this will be a big year for him. Another underrated add is Chris Tanev who will help lock it down to close out their top 4.

Goalies

Jacob Markstrom was nominated for a Vezina with Calgary’s division rival Vancouver Canucks just last year. He’s one of the most promising goalies in the league and without a doubt be the franchise guy the Flames have been searching for since Mikka Kippursoff. Behind Marsktrom is David Rittich, who also was an all-star last year, and as I’ve said throughout the article, with this schedule, a good backup goalie is crucial. WIth Rittich playing less games, I expect him to be more effective, and I predict the Flames GAA to be amongst the best in the NHL.

Who to Watch

Sean Monahan put up 48 points in 70 games last season. He is a great two-way forward but I would expect the Flames to lean on him more offensively, especially on the powerplay. Look for him to have his most productive season.

That’s it! Those are my predictions! Let me know what you think and WHY you think it! Regardless of opinion, I think it’s safe to say we are all happy hockey is back. So buckle up Canada, you’re in for one hell of a season. Let’s go.

Aidan Robertson

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linkacct-blog · 6 years ago

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Link Accounting

What As stated by the Australian Accountants Directory they're,"a professional of accountancy or bookkeeping, that is the measurement, disclosure or provision of assurance about financial advice that helps investors, managers, tax authorities and many others make decisions about financial resources"("About Accountants"). As you might already know, different regions of the planet have different specialist bodies of bookkeeping.

Link Accounting

For Example, not each state utilizes the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). As its name implies, that is only utilized in the USA. Australia, nevertheless, has three lawfully recognized local expert accounting bodies; the institute of public accountants (IPA), CPA Australia (CPA), and the institute of chartered accountants of Australia (ICAA).

Link Accounting

The IPA Has Existed since 1923 and Continues to increase in the business now. After 90 years it now sits over 26,000 members and pupils across 64 countries and is rated in the best professional accounting bodies on earth ("Institute of Public Accountants"). They obtained a complete membership of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) at 2005 and the Confederation of Asian and Pacific Accountants (CAPA) at 2011. They're actually working towards building connections and measuring knowledge abroad. They're innovative in everything they do since they are known among the top 20 in BRW's most advanced companies in Australia listing for 2012. The IPA has three degrees of membership, Associate (AIPA), Member (MIPA), and Fellow (FIPA). An Associate membership requires you to possess a Australian Advanced Diploma of Accounting or a Bachelor's degree in Accounting which may be equivalent in character. MIPA membership demands Australian Advanced Diploma of Accounting, two decades of pre-IPA program fulltime job experience in accounting or related disciplines along with also a mentored experience application. A FIPA membership necessitates seven years' MIPA standing or equivalent and 10 years' experience in bookkeeping the previous five years need to be in a senior level ("Institute of Public Accountants").

According To CPA Australia, they're among the world's biggest accounting bodies using a worldwide membership of over 150,000 members operating in 120 countries around the world, and more than 25,000 members working in senior leadership positions ("Around Us"). They supply instruction, training, technical assistance and advocacy. They had been also an early entrant in the Asian Market, in which their participation started in the early 1950s and aimed at strengthening and developing the accounting profession from the area. As of now nearly one-quarter of CPA Australia's members live out of Australia, with over 35,000 in Asia. They now have nineteen staffed offices around Australia, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, New Zealand and the united kingdom. To be a member of the program candidates must maintain a postgraduate award that's recognized by CPA Australia, and demonstrate proficiency in the necessary knowledge areas and, in just a six year period, successfully complete the CPA Program ("Around Us"). They need to also have three decades of professional expertise in finance, or accounting for company. To provide public accounting services, CPAs should also finish CPA Australia's Public Practice program, which entails distance learning plus a residential element, and has to maintain a Public Practice Certificate in compliance with the CPA Australia's by laws.

The Australia. They now have over 50,000 members and 12,000 pupils ("News and Updates"). To Be Able to become a part of this institute, one Must finish the Chartered Accountants Program that includes analysis of Graduate degree In Chartered Accounting (GradDipCA) and three decades of practical experience. But those holding non-accounting levels may also be allowed Entrance after further requirements are satisfied. If a person does become a Chartered Accountant they need to complete a total of 120 hours Continuing skilled Education every 3 decades. Founding member of the Global Accounting Alliance (GAA). Members of the Alliance are part of this global accounting coalition of this Planet's highest accounting figures. Chartered Accountants audits 100 Percentage of the top rated ASX-listed firms in Australia. They're Recognized by the global accounting bodies of this top Financial centers of the world. At November 2013, the ICAA merged Together with the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants and are currently Called"Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand"("News and Updates").

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highbuttonsports · 4 years ago

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Friesen: Shaky in net, trouble scoring and a losing skid - week 3 recap of the Ottawa Senators

It has been a lengthy 15 days since the Ottawa Senators last win. A win that came in season opener against the North Division favourite Toronto Maple Leafs on a Friday night. It feels like only yesterday that a young Auston Matthews strolled into the Canadian Tire Centre for his first career game and amazingly netted 4 goals to kick off his career - a memory that Sens fans across the nation revisit each home opener that includes a visit from their Ontario rivals.

January 15th was a fun night against a good team. The Sens showed structure, poise and coach DJ Smith’s favourite – defensive responsibility. Since that night, things have not been so fun. Ottawa has dropped seven straight and earned only one point by taking the Winnipeg Jets to overtime in their first meeting of the year. Most recently, the Senators were handed the broomstick and were easily swept out of Vancouver. Lets dive in..

Goal scoring

If there is one thing I am most certain about, it is that you can not win games in the NHL without scoring goals. During their 3 game visit in Vancouver, the Senators were outscored 16-3 including going 1/14 on the powerplay. Scoring goals at this rate has left them 28th in the NHL, ahead of only Anaheim, the Islanders and Detroit. Ottawa simply does not score enough goals to support their lackluster defensive ability – currently sitting dead last in goals allowed and is averaging a whopping 4.50 GA/GP so far this season. The powerplay has not improved, it is still early however the addition of so called powerplay specialist Alex Galchenyuk has been a healthy scratch more often than not – and when he is in the lineup he has not been making an impact. Coach DJ Smith praises hard work and responsibility, something Galchenyuk has been criticized for not having enough of in previous markets. To be fair to coach Smith, Galchenyuk’s metrics do not support a responsible NHL player as he has consistently posted a CF% below 50%. It is still very early in the season, and there are lots of young players still figuring things out and I have hope. Over the next few games we need a bounce back – and I’m looking at guys like Batherson, Connor Brown and new addition Dadonov to find a spark for this team.

I finally feel good about Colin White

Colin White has played in 4 of Ottawa’s 8 games so far this season. It came as a surprise to many to see White sitting in the press box for the season opener instead of on the bench with the team. White has been pegged as a centrepiece of this rebuild, as highlighted by the 6 year 28.5 million dollar contract Dorian signed him to a year ago. Nonetheless, Whitey returned in game 2 of the 3 game set. He logged over 16 minutes of ice, was ok on draws and even saw over 2 minutes on the PP. White also had a tremendous scoring chance that is not on the score sheet and I’m sure he wants back. White did what he needed to do to stay in this lineup. He skated hard, he was on pucks and bodies in both zones and was a pest in the nuetral zone. It may have taken a short adjustment period but perhaps White has finally realized that he is not the fastest or most talented player on the ice. However, if he continues to show responsibility on the defensive end and doesn’t take any shifts off – he can be a staple of this lineup for years to come. And frankly, that’s exciting. Lets keep and eye on Colin White for the next week.

Goaltending – Yikes

We’ve been over lack of producing offence, and we can all agree that if you are outscored 16-3 over the course of three games you will not be winning said games. With that being said, the Senators goaltending – largely Matty Murray – has not been doing the skaters any favours. The Senators goaltending currents sits at rock bottom of the league in both GAA (4.48) and SV% (.858). It is safe to say this is not the Matt Murray that Pierre Dorian thought he was bringing in, and certainly not the Matt Murray that had a large part in multiple Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Hogberg has not been good either. On paper the two goaltenders are both equally struggling and are posting very similarly poor numbers. FWIW – from a few eye tests conducted by none other than myself, Hogberg has been between the pipes for 2 of the Senators 3 worst defensive performances including the 7-1 loss this week in BC. At time I struggle with the validity of some advanced goaltending metrics because goalies are very subject to QOT (quality of teammate) that some metrics do not take into account. In saying that, the Senators goaltenders are currently performing far below the NHL average. Murray currently sits at -8.34 GSAA (goals saved above average) meaning he has given up more than 8 goals fewer than an average NHL goalie would have at the same shot against rate – that is not good. During his cup run seasons with the Pens, this number was +14.48 and +14.67. As mentioned, these are tough measurements to make a concrete judgment against a goaltender due to the poor defensive play in front of him but there is something to be said for numbers measured against NHL averages at the same rate of poor defence. I’m looking for Murray to steal a game against Connor Mcdavid and the Oilers this weekend to get back on track.

This week

Well…. It doesn’t get any easier. The Senators remain in western Canada for two against the always tough match up Edmonton Oilers and swing back through the red hot Canadiens de Montréal. All this team needs is a bounce, a break and spark.

We’ll chat this time next week.

#ottawa #ottawa senators #nhl news #hockey #sports

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backroomblogs · 7 years ago

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The Bruins Are Going to Win The Stanley Cup - Jimmer

Some may think the title of this blog is me exaggerating or trying to be funny, but I quite literally could not be more serious. This team has everything that a Stanley Cup winner needs. Between the veterans who have been there before, the young players who are hungry to win, and a Vezina caliber goalie, the Bruins truly have it all. Coming off a huge 2-1 victory over Montreal last night (with goals from Jake DeBrusk and and Brad Marchand in OT), the Bruins sit at 40-15-8 and in 2nd place in the Atlantic Division.

The chemistry and balance of this team all season has been something that has stuck out to me. I give a lot of credit to Bruce Cassidy and his staff for finally doing what Julien and company neglected to do, and allowing some of these young guys to come up and make an instant impact. Guys like Jake DeBrusk (13-21-34), Charlie McAvoy (7-25-32), and Danton Heinen (12-27-39) have performed above expectations all year long. Cassidy has pulled all the right strings so far.

The emergence of the young players has worked in tandem with fantastic play from some familiar faces. It all starts with the top line of Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron, and David Pastrnak. Undoubtedly, this has been the line that really sets the tone for the Boston offense this season.

Marchand has proven that last season’s career year was not an outlier, as through 50 games played he has registered 25-36-61. 21 year old David Pastrnak has also continued on the path toward super star status in his young career, as he has put up 23-35-58 in 63 games. Bergeron, although currently on the shelf for at least 2 weeks with a broken foot, has been as consistent as ever. Bergeron leads the team with 27 goals, along with 27 assists and a 56.9% face-off percentage.

As I mentioned before though, this team has serious depth.

The second line looks like, barring injury, it is set for the stretch run. After battling an early season injury David Krejci has put up 14-19-33 in 45 games. Lately he has looked great (hat trick against Pittsburgh), and that has a lot to do with him playing in a spot where he has excelled before, between two big, power wingers. Newly acquired Rick Nash (20-11-31) brings a scoring ability and big frame to match with DeBrusk on the opposite wing, mirroring the Horton/Krejci/Lucic line from 2011-2013.

The strength of the third line has been a very welcomed surprise this season as well. Rookie Danton Heinen has far exceeded expectations. I think the Bruins really have something with him that not even they could have seen coming. David Backes has been strong since returning from injury, putting up 11-16-27 in 46 games. I think the element that Backes brings to this team is very underrated. He is a guy that has been top 6 for the majority of his career, and probably could be on several teams still. With the makeup of this Bruins team however, he can slide into a wing spot on the 3rd line and make the top 9 much stronger. Riley Nash has also had a big year setting career highs with 12 goals, 20 assists, and 32 points in only 62 games. You couldn’t ask for more from a third line in terms of production.

The fourth line of Sean Kuraly, Tim Schaller, and Noel Acciari has given the Bruins confidence in their 4th line. The depth acquisitions of Tommy Wingels and Brian Gionta give more options as well.

On the back end there are a ton of options as well. Despite aging and having lost a few steps, Zdeno Chara has looked better than I expected. All in all he has been solid, and is a perfect pair with Charlie McAvoy. He is passing the number one defenseman torch to Chuckie Bright Lights right before our eyes. (Side note I really really really hope McAvoy’s injury is nothing serious). Torey Krug has improved defensively and once again been a force on offense, with 11-32-43 through 59 games. With Brandon Carlo, Kevan Miller, Matt Grzelcyk, Nick Holden, and Adam McQuaid there is a great deal of options on the blue line and I wouldn’t be surprised to see different pairs get a shot down the stretch to set the playoff lineup.

Rask has been great between the pipes putting up a 26-11-4 record with a 2.27 GAA and a .919 save percentage. He also has 2 shutouts. Anton Khudobin is 14-4-4 as the back up, and has put up a 2.34 GAA with a .921 save percentage, and a shutout.

I have no idea how many words this blog is to be honest, and I really don’t even care. Yeah it’s kind of long I get that, but I wouldn’t have sat down and wrote it over the course of 2 days if I wasn’t 1 million percent sure the Bruins are going to win it all. Look at the facts and the numbers. This team is absolutely filthy, and has the perfect balance. I have zero doubts. Hopefully come June for the parade we get some awesome weather. Fire up the Duck Boats.

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mitchbeck · 4 years ago

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CANTLON'S CORNER: HOCKEY NEWS AND NOTES OFF SEASON VOLUME 12

BY: Gerry Cantlon, Howlings HARTFORD, CT - The world is slowly approaching normalcy. Sports news is becoming more and more prevalent as ALL sports are moving closer and closer towards returning into the daily lives of its fans. AHL AWARDS The American Hockey League announced that forward Gerry Mayhew of the Iowa Wild has been voted the winner of the Les Cunningham Award as the AHL’s Most Valuable Player for the 2019-20 season. Mayhew scored a league-best 39 goals – the most by an AHL skater since 2011-12 – and finished third with 61 points in 49 games, leading Iowa to the team's best regular-season record in franchise history. 10 of Mayhew’s goals were game-winners and logging 11 multiple-goal performances, including a natural hat trick in a 3-0 win over the San Diego Gulls on Feb. 14. Mayhew tied a franchise mark with a ten-game scoring streak from December 12th to January 10th. Mayhew earned CCM/AHL Player-of-the-Month honors for January after he totaled 12 goals and 19 points in 11 contests. Among Mayhew’s 39 tallies were 13 power-play goals and two shorthanded markers. He also led the Wild in plus/minus rating at plus-16. Iowa was 26-7-1-2 in games when Mayhew registered a point. Mayhew represented Iowa at the 2020 AHL All-Star Classic in Ontario, CA, and was voted a Second Team Left-Wing AHL All-Star for 2019-20. He also made his National Hockey League debut this season, notching two goals in 13 games with Minnesota – including a goal in his first appearance on October 15th in Toronto. 2020-21 SEASON When it starts, where it starts still remains to be seen at the NHL or AHL level. The NHL has agreed-upon a framework to return to play, but several major details are still being worked out. While questions remain how it will all play out, signs point to a resumption of hockey sometime this summer. The AHL season start will not be in October, with the most likely start being some point in November. The October 9th scheduled date for the home opener for the Hartford Wolf Pack is almost certainly going to be rescheduled. One of the many side issues is the pending expiration of player contracts at the end of June but of the contracts of teams' hockey staff at the end of the month. “They’re running out of runway here and a lot of people are in limbo,” one source said. "It isn’t only players, its all the hockey ops people, GM, Assistant GM, Head Coaches, assistants, equipment managers, trainers, and scouts are all sitting around wondering a lot about this. What I’m hearing is the likelihood is that they will slide contracts forward say 60-90 days, then, announce a Draft Day and then a free agency period. The other big issue is, of course, the salary cap and what we're hearing is a freeze on the cap at this year’s level ($82.1M) for the next two-to-three years until the economy recovers. In principle, both sides are happy. They have areas of interest they want to clarify moving forward, but a ten-year extension for the CBA is being bandied about. It's in discussion but nothing's finalized.” The business of hockey is a large and expansive one with many pieces of the financial puzzle still to be resolved. PLAYER MOVEMENT A big coaching opportunity has opened up after the Los Angeles Kings announced on Saturday that they will not renew the contract of Ontario Reign head coach, Mike Stothers, whose contract is set to expire on June 15th. Stothers has led the Kings’ affiliate for the last six seasons, including five with the Reign (2015-20) where he earned the Louis A.R. Pieri Award as the AHL’s outstanding coach and won a Calder Cup championship with the Manchester Monarchs in 2014-15. “We appreciate everything Mike has contributed to the organization,” said Rob Blake, Vice President and General Manager of the Kings in a press release. “He has played an important role in helping develop our players and we want to thank him for his years of service and guiding us to a Calder Cup Championship in 2015." San Diego's Chris Wideman heads to the Torpedo Novgorod (Russia-KHL) and Frank Corrado of the Belleville Senators signs with MODO (Sweden-Allsvenskan). Lukáš Radil, who split the year in San Jose between the AHL Barracuda and the NHL Sharks signs with Spartak Moscow (Russia-KHL) while Carter Camper of the Utica Comets has his eyes on Sweden or perhaps Russia for next year. 23 players have now signed in Europe. 16 of the 31 AHL teams have lost at least one player to a European signing. Ex-Pack, Kodie Curran, turned down a KHL deal with Avangard Omsk (Russia) to sign a two-year, one-way deal at a $1M/year with the Anaheim Ducks. He will likely be in San Diego to start the season. He played with Rogle BK (Sweden-SHL) last year earning high marks as the top defenseman in the SHL and the Golden Helmet Award as the regular season MVP. Nice story on Curran in the Calgary Herald. Read it HERE. A pair of ex-Wolf Pack players were swapped for one another in a two-for-one deal in Russia. Defenseman, Alexei Bereglazov, winner of two Gagarin Cup titles, and forward, Ilya Kablukov, depart Mettallurg Magnitogorsk (Russia-KHL) for Avangard Omsk. Going back the other way in the deal is right-wing, Taylor Beck, an ex-Sound Tiger. Ryan Verbeek, the nephew of former Hartford Whaler and New York Ranger, and current Detroit Red Wing Assistant GM, Pat Verbeek, returns to France to play with Elite Magnus League HC Briancon next season. He split this season with Pensacola and Huntsville of the SPHL. Calvon Boots of the American International College (AHA) leaves the Springfield, MA school for the Rochester Institute of Technology (AHA) in the fall. AIC goalie, Zacharias Skog completes his four years and signs a pro deal back home with Vasterviks IK (Sweden-SHL). His movement makes 31 college players signing in Europe. Goalie, Ryan Edquist, after just 21 games in four years with the Boston College Eagles (HE) has grad transferred back home to the Minnesota State-Mankato Mavericks (NCHC). He will be the backup to next season's likely Hobey Baker finalist, Dryden McKay, who had a 1.31 GAA, tops in the nation in his sophomore year. He is the son of one-time Whaler, Ross McKay. Edquist's transfer makes for 16 Division I grads moving to new schools. Andrew Mancini, (Canterbury Prep-New Milford) drafted as the first-ever draft pick by the Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks in the NAHL Supplemental Draft has opted to sign with the P.A.L. Islanders (NCDC) which is closer to his Long Island home for next season. Cam MacDonald (Selects Academy of South Kent Prep) who was a Boston College (HE) commit for 2022-23 has elected to head home and signed with the Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL). He spent last season with the Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL). Max Coyle becomes the fourth University of Alabama-Huntsville (WCHA) player to transfer from the program that was slated to be eliminated. He heads to Bowling Green (NCHC). Read that story, next. TALBOT, A SAVE AND A BEAUTY The University Alabama-Huntsville Chargers were on the verge of extinction until a former Wolf Pack goaltender got involved. In just ten days' time, the Chargers' program received an astounding $500K in donations allowing the University to continue to have their team play in the WCHA conference. The conference formally reinstated the program on Wednesday. The conference is losing seven schools after the 2020-21 season as they form the new CCHA conference. UAH may apply so they have a more travel-friendly schedule according to now-former head coach Mike Corbett, who stepped down on Wednesday, along with Assistant Coach, and long time AHL player, Gavin Morgan. The other assistant coach Lance West was named Interim Head Coach. West played at UA-H in the early 1990s, three-of-the-four years at Division II. He was an assistant coach for ten years after graduating before spending the next eleven seasons at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks (WCHA), the first ten of them as an assistant coach. He returned to the program two years ago. A fundraising campaign to support the continuation of the Alabama-Huntsville hockey program was successful in raising the critical monetary gifts from numerous individual donors, according to UA-H Athletic Director, Cade Smith in a story on AL.com. The dollars were matched by two separate gifts of $125,000 each. The gifts came from long-time hockey supporters, Taso Sofikitis, and Sheldon Wolitski, who played on the school’s Division II national championship team. The total amount of more than $750,000 in private dollars will allow the Chargers to continue to compete at the Division I level during the 2020-21 season. This total philanthropic contribution is the largest athletic campaign contribution in the history of UA-H. One of the school's biggest program supporters and who helped spearhead the drive was its most famous former Charger, and current Calgary Flames and ex-Wolf Pack netminder, Cam Talbot. He took to his own Twitter page to express why people should donate to the cause. “This program gave me a chance that nobody else would. Without my time spent @UAHuntsville, I would not have got the opportunity to be where I am today. I want those opportunities to continue for more young players for years to come!” Talbot was named to the advisory board. In addition to the private dollars, UAH president, Darren Dawson, committed money from the university to cover the balance of the hockey team’s operational costs during the upcoming season. “We are thankful from the loyal support that has been demonstrated this week by the fans and alumni of Charger hockey,” said Dawson in a press release statement. “We are hopeful that this support will translate into a sustainable funding model that will allow the UAH hockey program to rise again to high levels of success,” “The university is fully committed to the upcoming season,” Smith added. “The university will work with the supporters of the UAH hockey program and a newly formed hockey advisory board to develop a plan that will allow the Chargers to thrive in the 2020-21 season and beyond. UAH is committed to building a world-class Division I hockey program with a permanent conference home that will allow the Chargers to continue past the 2020-21 season.” The school has already allocated money and cleared space for a brand-new, on-campus arena before the pandemic hit looking to take the Chargers from the larger, off-campus site, the Van Braun Center, which is the home of the local SPHL team, the Huntsville Havoc, to a more manageable facility. The WCHA conference will be strengthened and could become the first fully functioning West-Coast-based Conference as they are likely to add Arizona State, whose brand new on-campus arena is expected to be ready in 2021. The two Alaska schools in Fairbanks and Anchorage are likely to merge in the near future because of state budget cuts. The conference will likely then add other major West Coast Division I colleges and universities such as Los Angeles-based USC, and UCLA, Colorado-based, Air Force, who will likely switch from the AHA conference, and perhaps UNLV, and Utah, who are currently ACHA Division I club programs. Despite the good financial news, the Chargers program lost another player to transfer when Bailey Newton announced he will leave after his sophomore season and head back to Canada and the University of Western Ontario Mustangs (OUAA) QMJHL The last Canadian major junior Draft is this weekend. The QMJHL Draft will be done remotely for the first time with the first round scheduled for Friday on the league’s YouTube channel. Rounds 2-14 will be on Saturday starting at 9 am with selection results on the league website. The QMJHL U.S. Draft will be held on Monday, June 8th with results on the league's website. The states with eligible players in the US Draft are from are; Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. A strong rumor is that the QMJHL will start it's 2020-21 season on October 1st, regardless of what the other two major junior leagues, the OHL and WHL, do. In part, it will be because they have no US-based franchises. The only issue will be European players' participation based on provincial and directives from Ottawa regarding COVID-19 and the US border for American players which of course by mutual consent is still closed. “The feeling is they want to get back to a regular order of business starting a month later is OK, but they want to get back on track,” commented a reliable hockey source with knowledge of the situation. Having fans in the buildings are necessary for franchises to survive, but Health Canada will have the final say on when the puck is dropped. The NAHL has pushed its Draft Day to July 21st. The CHL Import Draft that normally takes place after the NHL Draft and no date has been set for either. COLLEGE HOCKEY The Dartmouth head coaching opening was filled with a familiar name to followers of Connecticut college hockey as Reid Cashman, who spent four years as a defenseman with the Quinnipiac Bobcats (ECACHL) in their rise to national prominence, was named the new head coach for the Dartmouth Big Green (ECACHL) on Monday. He becomes the 22nd coach in school history and replaces the all-time winningest coach, Bob Gaudet, who stepped down after 23 years year in the top spot. “I feel like I have been given the opportunity of a lifetime to be the head coach of the Dartmouth men’s hockey program,” Cashman said in a press release statement. “For 114 years, Dartmouth has competed at the highest level and has produced Olympians, All-Americans, and NHL players. Along with the great history on the ice, Dartmouth College has been one of the finest institutions in the world for more than 250 years. It is truly an honor to be given this prestigious opportunity.” Cashman has been on a fast track professionally. He was an assistant coach for two years with the Hershey Bears (AHL) and has spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach with the Washington Capitals, with his portfolio being the Caps powerplay and defense. He also coordinated their development camps and participation in the Traverse City, MI annual prospects tournament. He won’t start this new position until the NHL playoffs for the Capitals concludes, whenever that may be. Cashman played 151 games for the Hamden-based university. In 151 career games, Cashman tallied 23 goals and still holds the school record of 125 assists for 242 total points. He was an NCAA (East First-Team, All-American in his senior year in 2006-07. He was a second-team honoree in his junior in 2003-2004. In Quinnipiac’s last season in the AHA conference, he was named to the First Team and led the conference in scoring. He was named Player of the Year. In addition, Cashman was a Hobey Baker Top 10 finalist before the Bobcats were elevated to the ECACHL conference. Cashman played five years of minor professional hockey with his last year in North America winning an ECHL Kelly Cup championship with the Cincinnati Cyclones in 2010. Cashman’s last pro year was spent in Austria skating for EHC Linz in Erste Bank Eishockey League (EBEL). The Red Wing, MN native was undrafted but played in the AHL for Toronto, Wilkes Barre/Scranton, and Milwaukee. In the ECHL, he played for Columbia, Wheeling, and Cincinnati After retiring from active playing, he returned to Quinnipiac and became an assistant coach to Rand Pecknold for five years (2011-2016) and went to two Frozen Four Finals. Quinnipiac lost to first to their conference, and in-state rival, Yale University, in a 4-0 shutout in 2013 and again in 2016 losing 5-1 to North Dakota. Thomas Maia is another Division I player heading to the Canadian Junior A ranks while still retaining his NCAA eligibility. Maia, who suffered a broken fibula without playing a game for R.I.T. (AHA), heads to the Victoria Grizzlies (BCHL) after he was traded from the Oakville Blades (OJHL). Speaking of Yale University, they announced its 2020 freshmen class of seven which includes head coach Keith Allain's son, Nik (North Branford/Taft Prep) from Boston (NCDC). He was a UCONN commit at one point. Ryan Stevens joins his brother Luke who is already with the Bulldogs. The boys' father is Kevin Stevens, the former NHL'er with the New York Rangers. Stevens, the elder, won two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The other announced players include Reilly Connors (Madison/Loomis Chaffe), and goalie Nathan Reid, from Sioux Falls (USHL). LIU named its first head coach last week, and this week their first batch of LIU Sharks recruits with the first-ever recruit signed being Jordan DiCicco of the Brooks Bandits (AJHL). He was followed by nine others including, Connor Szmul, from the Chippewa (WI) Steel (NAHL), Daine Dubois of the Bonnyville Pontiacs (AJHL), Robert McCollum Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL), no relation to ex-Wolf Pack Tom McCollum. Also, Nolan McElhaney, who missed all of last year with an ACL injury, transfers from the University of New Hampshire Wildcats (HE), and a second Division I transfer, Mitch Meek, from Michigan Tech (WCHA). Madoka Suzuki of the Kemptville 73’s (CCHL), Marty Westhaver of the Victoria Grizzlies (BCHL), Aaron White of the Amarillo Bulls (NAHL), and Gustav Muller of the Madison Capitols (USHL). TRIVIA What was Wayne Gretzky's last non-99 uniform number? He wore number 26 for three games with the Peterborough Petes. Last month was the 25th anniversary of the Quebec Nordiques' last game. It was at MSG against the Rangers in the Stanley Cup playoffs. The Rangers won the series in six games with the last goal in Nordiques history was scored by Peter Forsberg. The Nordiques were the first WHA team that merged with the NHL that was moved. Read the full article

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yahoo-puck-daddy-blog · 7 years ago

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What we learned about Canada in WJC preliminary round

What we’ve learned from Canada so far: Carter Hart might be the best starter its had since Carey Price. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Mark Blinch)

After blasting Denmark 8-0 on Saturday, Team Canada grabbed 10 of a possible 12 points and wrapped up top spot in Group A with a near blemish-free 3-0-1 record through the preliminary round at the 2018 world juniors. A relatively smooth first four contests yielded wins against Finland, Slovakia and the Danes, while a shootout loss to the U.S. during the outdoor game — after giving up two, two-goal leads — was the club’s only scuff on its record so far.

The real tournament begins when the medal round does and, just as most predicted prior to the event, Canada finds itself alongside Team USA, Finland and Sweden as the standout contenders to take gold. A few questions have been answered for Canada, factors that will continue to be the keys to its chances of climbing back to the top of the WJC podium.

Here are three things we’ve learned about the Canadians, and their place in the 2018 WJC so far:

For the first time in a long time, goaltending isn’t a concern

(THE CANADIAN PRESS/Mark Blinch)

It seems the largest cloud hanging over Canada’s gold medal chances every tournament the past decade or so is its goaltending. Carey Price was the last true No. 1 they’ve had entering the tournament and, since then, the position has proved at times to be the country’s Achilles heel. This time around, however, Carter Hart gives Canada the best starter in the tournament and one who came into the 2018 event as the hottest junior-aged goaltender on the planet.

The Philadelphia Flyers’ second-rounder has posted mind-bending numbers through his first 17 starts with the WHL’s Everett Silvertips, boasting a minuscule 1.32 GAA and an obscene .961 save percentage. His economy of movement and calming influence in the crease is exactly what Canada was hoping he’d bring when handing him the starter’s spot, and he cruises into the medal round with a 2-0-1 record, one shutout and a .940 save percentage.

The team’s offence starts from the back end

The last-minute addition of Montreal Canadiens rookie Victor Mete was a huge boost after Canada already looked to have, top-to-bottom, the most offensively-talented blue line in the group, if not the tournament. Coming in with point-per-game guys like Conor Timmins and Jake Bean, along with Kale Clague’s 47 points and an uber-talent (but slightly overlooked) Cale Makar, it was expected that a lot of Canada’s goal-scoring would be initiated from the back end.

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That’s proven true so far, with Canada’s D-corps posting 14 points in the four preliminary-round contests, and Makar emerging as the hot-hand with two tallies. They’ve shown an uncanny ability to get shots on net through traffic and their zone entries as a whole have been smooth and efficient. They don’t have the household name like Sweden does with surefire 2018 No. 1 overall pick Rasmus Dahlin, but they have seven guys who are pretty special – especially with the puck on their stick.

With no clear favourite, the field is wide open

Though Canada dropped a tight one in a shootout during blistery conditions at the first-ever outdoor game at the world juniors, the club showed it can certainly compete with the pre-tournament Group A favourite Team USA. Aside from that test, Canada cruised to (expected) victories over Slovakia and Denmark after a tight one with Finland en route to locking up top spot. Slovakia pulled off the shocker of the opening round and one of the bigger upsets in recent memory with a thrilling 3-2 win over the Americans, proving that the Stars and Stripes do have vulnerabilities.

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Sweden, as expected, have looked solid right from the get-go and sit atop Group B, outscoring opponents 16-4 through its first three contests. Alongside the U.S., Sweden boasts star power with Alex Nylander, Vancouver Canucks No. 5 overall pick Elias Pettersson and aforementioned Dahlin. The Czechs and Russians have looked solid so far, too, while a pesky Swiss club is always a candidate to provide an upset in a sudden death format like the medal round.

Canada will likely draw Switzerland in the quarters and will likely have to get through two of Team USA, Sweden and Finland to capture its second gold medal since 2009. Goaltending and offensive output from the blue line will determine if it can make that happen or not.

More hockey coverage on Yahoo Sports:

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#2018 World Junior Championship #_author:Kyle Cantlon #_revsp:21d636bb-8aa8-4731-9147-93a932d2b27a #_lmsid:a077000000CFoGyAAL #_uuid:c14f868b-fa64-37bc-b838-63e8e6d56fd7

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artisticbent · 5 years ago

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Found the Westcrest pub where I spent my childhood after watching my dad play football (to Americans - soccer) and hurley for the GAA. ~ It’s been renamed, the pool table and Donkey Kong game are gone, and there’s no Irish music playing. ~ It smells the same somehow and I swear I can see the ghosts of my memories sitting around the bar talking in Irish brogues. ~ Since I wasn’t allowed to drink in here as a kid I’m raising a Guinness now - to my dad, his teammates, our community and our country. Up the ‘Ra - here’s to 32!!! #momlife #westcrest #irish #irishpub @guinness #ireland #irishmom @officialgaa #guinness #guinessbeer #gaelic #memories #memoriesforlife #christmas #christmaseve #december #2019 #tuesday #holiday #houston #texas #tx #unitedireland @sinn_fein #patriot #freedom #free #winter #night #nightout #beer #beerstagram (at Molly's Irish Pub & Sports Bar West Side) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6enQ3OACLl/?igshid=15qxwgitlz3zf

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221bshrlocked · 8 years ago

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Who I Want to Be

Pairing: Sebastian X Reader

Words: 945

Warnings: Angst.

Anon asked “Hey, it’s the anon who requested ‘so far’.. I wanted to ask if you can do another imagine where the reader and Seb have been best friends since forever and they both have feelings for each other but don’t act upon it and they get into a heated argument and Seb sees how important the reader is in his life and idk what else.. thank you”

A/N: This got a bit out of hand! I switched it up a bit if you don’t mind! It’s first day of the quarter and I don’t want to study already. Sorry this is super late. There is a second part. Let me know if you want to be tagged!

Next part

Well this was not what you expected you’d be doing on a Friday night. Sitting in your pajamas and drinking wine, you were in the middle of watching John Wick when you heard a knock on the door. Looking at your watch, you saw it was 7 and wondered who the hell would be bothering you right now. Getting up, you opened the door to find Seb in a tux going through his phone.

He turned to look at you and couldn’t help but take a deep breath through his nose. Even in the DC pajamas you looked beautiful. No, this was not happening now.

“What the fuck are you doing?” He walked in.

“You can come in…” Sitting on the couch you turned the volume louder and he grabbed the remote and shut it off.

“What the f- I was watching that!”

“Did you forget about tonight?? I reminded you like 10 fucking times Y/N.”

“What is toni- Oh my GAa- THAT’S TONIGHT?”

“YASS go gET reaDY NOW!”

“But I didn’t buy a dress I thought it was next week!” You stood up sprinting to your room to find a decent dress.

“I knew you would say that…here.” He opened the bag he had with him and threw the dress at you.

“Omygod Seb I cannot wear this.”

“Why not? It’s your size.”

“No you bought this I can’t-”

“You are seriously not fucking saying that right now. Go.get.dressed or I will get yelled at.”

You ran into the bathroom to wash your hair quickly and put makeup on. “When does it start again?” He heard you yell through the bathroom.

He sat on your bed and yelled “in an hour and half. Hurry up!!”

“Alright alright.”

After a couple of minutes, you walked out with nothing but your panties and a strapless bra. He tried so hard to not look at up but failed.

“Seriously couldn’t you dress inside. Jeez….” He covered his eyes and you laughed.

“Really Seb you’ve seen me in bikinis before I don’t see what the problem is. Besides, you’re my best friend so hey…”

He cringed when you called him that..

But I want to be more than that.

You put the dress and asked him to zip you up. When he got up, he trailed his hands down your back and you felt his breath on your neck.

Why can’t you see me more than a friend Seb?

You tried to focus on anything but his warm hands on your back. Once he finished, you turned around and he took a good look at you. You felt so vulnerable under his eyes..like you were naked and he was just taking you in. Moments passed and both of you felt the awkward atmosphere so he coughed and told he he’s waiting outside. He shut your bedroom door on his way out.

You took a good look at yourself in the mirror.

“God Seb why can’t you just stop this? Why is it that I always go with you to these stupid parties? Just take someone else for once..” you sighed and walked out telling him you’re ready to go.

An hour later, he held the door as you walked out of the car you’re in.

“Remind me what this is for again?” You smiled as pictures were taken of both of you.

“Oh it’s for a friend of mine. He just debuted his first movie. A director that is…”

“Okay…and you just happened to be invited?”

“Well it is more publicity for him. Just helping out.”

You giggled and looked at him. Placing a hand on his chest, you laughed and said “oh you are such a good friend!”

For the second time that night, he had to force a smile and look back to the cameras.

A friend huh. That’s all I’ll ever be to you.

After a couple of hours of socializing with him inside, you noticed how he completely dove into a conversation with one of the blonds who worked on the movie.

Seeing as he forgot you existed and had no problem with getting her a drink, you walked out to the balcony with a drink in your hand.

Someone covered your eyes and you smiled thinking it was him.

“Seb cut it out you know my contacts are so fucking itchy.” Turning around, you frowned when you realized who it was.

“Well Seb never told him his girlfriend is this pretty.” Seb walked in hearing him call you pretty but you didn’t notice him.

“Oh hi ya I’m not his girlfriend.”

“Well in that case, can I have your number?” He walked a little closer than to your liking and you stepped away.

“Uhhh I’m sorry I’m not really looking for a relationship right now. Your movie was fantastic however.” You tried to change the subject but noticed the smell of his breath and knew you were in trouble. He drank too much apparently.

Rubbing your shoulder, he walked closer and you tried to find a way out of the situation.

Seb was watching all of this and couldn’t help but feel so hurt. Like his heart was broken in front of him.

Not his girlfriend. Not looking for a relationship.

“Hey Y/N there you are!” He walked to you and grabbed your waist roughly.

“I see you met the master behind this movie.”

“Ya he was just telling me about how amazing it was to finally direct.”

Why are you lying to me?

Forcing a smile once more, he excused himself from his friend and told him it was time for you guys to leave.

#sebastian stan #sebastian stan imagine #sebastine stan x reader #sebastian stan fanfiction #sebastian x reader #bucky imagine #sebastian imagine #mywriting

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allyharrismedia · 6 years ago

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2016 QMJHL Playoffs: Round One Preview

By Ally Harris

If there’s one word to describe the Charlottetown Islanders right now, it’d be confident.

The Islanders enter the postseason as one of the hottest teams in the league, with a seven-game winning streak on the go.

And unlike the Islanders of years past, the team doesn’t just have its sights set on winning a playoff round. This team is preparing to go all the way.

“We’re gonna look to make it a couple of rounds this year and go for the championship,” said goaltender Mason McDonald. “I think we have the team to do that, especially the way we’ve been playing in the second half.”

But before they can do that, they have to advance past the first round. The Islanders will open the playoffs on Friday on the road against the Rimouski Oceanic.

“It’s a good matchup for us,” said McDonald. “We got the team we wanted and now we just have to execute. We’ll have a good week of practice, go to Rimouski and be ready for game one.”

“This is the most confident we’ve been all year,” said forward Keith Getson. “Everybody knows in our room we’re playoff ready and we’re excited to embrace the challenge.”

Regular Season

The Islanders faced off against the Oceanic twice in the regular season, allowing just one goal in regulation in the process. As things worked out, it was Matt Welsh who was the goaltender in both games.

The first game between the teams was in Rimouski back in October. That game was scoreless through regulation and overtime, and took a six-round shootout before Hunter Moreau finally put one in the back of the net to give the Oceanic the 1-0 win. Welsh also stopped a pair of penalty shots in that game.

When the teams met again at the Eastlink Centre in January, it was the Islanders who this time came away with the two points in a 3-1 victory. Jake Coughler, Brad Kennedy, and Mitchell Balmas scored for the Islanders in that contest as Welsh turned away 26 shots.

Home and Away

The Islanders did everything they needed to do to try and earn home ice at the end of the regular season, but the Oceanic did everything they needed to do to stop them.

While home ice would have been nice for the Islanders – they are 13-1 in their last 14 home games – being on the road for the extra game isn’t the end of the world. The Islanders have also been impressive on the road lately: they are 7-3-0-0 in their last 10 away from the Eastlink Centre.

For the Islanders, it doesn’t matter whether they’re at home or on the road. The end goal is still the same.

“Either way it’s the same thing,” said Getson. “We’re gonna go into another team’s barn, we’re gonna get two points.”

Rimouski have also been winning at home recently, going 7-2-1-0 at the Colisée Financière Sun Life in their last 10 games there. On the season, they have an impressive 23-8-3-0 record at home. On the road, they are 13-17-2-2.

Goaltending

Goaltending was the number one story of the playoffs last year with McDonald getting injured in game three of the first round.

The Islanders hope it’ll be a different story this year.

Goaltenders can be the difference maker in the playoffs and the Isles have all the confidence in the world in McDonald, who has had a strong end to the season.

“Mason is as sharp as I’ve seen him, rounding into form at the perfect time,” said Head Coach Jim Hulton.

McDonald, meanwhile, is just doing what he does best.

“I’m just doing what I do all the time: going out there and playing hockey. (I’m) not thinking about numbers, not thinking about wins, losses – just going out and playing.”

And if lightning does strike twice, it doesn’t hurt that the Islanders have a solid backup in Matt Welsh.

For Rimouski, Louis-Philip Guindon appeared in 57 games this season, posting 32 wins, a 2.81 GAA, and a 0.905 SAV%.

Defense

The Islanders have tightened up defensively in the second half. In their past 12 games, they’ve given up more than three goals just once.

Hulton said the most impressive thing about the Islanders’ last seven wins was the way they’d won those games.

“In particular, this last seven have all been tight-checking, low scoring games. And that’s what playoff hockey is all about.”

In the first half of the season, and even early in the second half, the team was struggling in close games where they needed to defend a lead. That hasn’t been the case lately.

“We’re comfortable now with the lead,” said Hulton. “We kind of got over that rough patch where we blew some leads and we seem to be comfortable now in a lot of different situations, and that’s what playoffs are all about.

“You can expect the unexpected, and you have to be prepared for anything and everything.”

Offense

Offense hasn’t been a problem for the Islanders since Christmas. With the addition of guys like Daniel Sprong and Samuel Blais on the roster, the Isles have scored 131 goals in 33 games – just under four goals a game.

What Hulton was most impressed with about the Islanders’ last two games of the season was the fact that none of the goals were scored on the power play.

“There was a stretch of time there where we seemed to (depend) on our power play to create any momentum offensively. We understand now that we have to be able to grind some teams down 5-on-5.”

Blais led the team in scoring with 82 points (33 goals and 49 assists), ahead of Brad Kennedy with 56 points (25 goals and 31 assists) and Filip Chlapik with 54 (12 goals and 42 assists).

For Rimouski, Antoine Dufort-Plante led the way with 63 points (23 goals and 40 assists), followed by Dylan Montcalm with 59 points (23 goals and 36 assists) and Tyler Boland with 54 (26 goals and 28 assists).

Special Teams

Although the power play didn’t score over the weekend, that doesn’t mean they haven’t been hot this season.

The Islanders had the league’s third-best power play over the regular season, clicking at 24.9%. Rimouski’s power play was 7th, at 22.8%.

Their penalty kills are the other way around. Rimouski’s penalty kill is third in the league and has an 81.1% success rate. The Islanders rate of 78.6% is 8th overall.

“We’re looking to be a couple more months going here,” said Hulton. “We want to continue to be in that mindset and that process is to come and get better every day and now we can just focus on one opponent and playing the game the right way.”

#Feature #Preview #playoff preview #charlottetown islanders #sports #print

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