The Essentials: Boston Bruins edition

(This month, Puck Daddy asked bloggers for every NHL team to tell us The Essentials for their franchises — everything from the defining player and trade, to the indispensable fan traditions. First up: It's Greg and Jon from Days of Y'Orr, with an assist from friend Mike Miccoli from The Hockey Writers, giving us an admittedly post-1970s look at the Boston Bruins' essentials.)

By Days of Y'Orr

Player: Cam Neely

Whenever people say that a certain player would fit the Bruins' style of play, they're making a Cam Neely comparison. Neely broke the mold and defined the role of a true power forward: someone who could score, hit hard and carry the team on his back when they needed him the most. Perhaps his most impressive year came in the 1993-94 season when he scored 50 goals in 49 games played. Injuries may have hampered his career but when you can't think of the Bruins without Neely. (Mike)

Season

Greg: 2008-09 season. To me, that season was what started this whole Bruins run. Prior to that season, Boston had always been mediocre at best. There was always the lingering heartache that Boston pulled every single season and every single post season. They made ridiculous signings (hi, Marty LaPointe) and they blew huge leads (hola, 3-1 lead on the Montreal Canadiens in the 2003-2004 playoffs). Suddenly, the Bruins broke out in the 2008-2009 season, running all over opponents to the tune of 116 points and 1st in the Eastern Conference. From that point on, Boston has been good at playing hockey and without that season, I don't think we see a Cup in 2011.

Mike: 2010-11. This isn't fair, I know it's not. In the 88 years of the Boston Bruins franchise, there have definitely been more important seasons than this one but in my 26 years on this Earth, I can't think of a more essential season for the black and gold. Looking back, from the drop of the puck in Prague to Brad Marchand's final goal in Game 7 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Final, everything clicked. The Cup rejuvenated the franchise, instilling faith where there once was despair and a new championship banner for the first time in 39 years in the rafters of the TD Garden.

Jon: 2009-10. This might not be a popular pick but I think the 2009-2010 season was at least the most definitive of my life time. You would think I'd put the 2011 Cup season here, but I believe the 2009-2010 season formed that team mentally. The Bruins had been teasing us for a number of season, leading fans to believe they were building towards the drought ending team. They entered the playoffs with such promise and were absolutely abusing the Flyers before their epic collapse. As painful as that Game 7 memory still is, without that soul crushing defeat I don't think the Bruins have the mental fortitude to come back from 0-2 deficits against the Canadiens and more importantly the Canucks in 2011.

Game

Greg: Game: 2011 playoffs, Game 7 against Montreal. People overlook this game because eventually Boston went on to win the Stanley Cup, but leading up to this there were so many questions and stories that I remember being nervous until the game was over. People started talking about the 2003-2004 playoff series, they noted that Zdeno Chara has never won a Game 7, they brought up the Philadelphia series the year before and the Carolina Hurricanes Game 7 the year before that.

If Boston loses that game they aren't Stanley Cup Champions (obvious statement is obvious), but it's deeper than that. If they lose that game, its possible that the team Peter Chiarelli put together doesn't exist because it would be three straight disappointing playoff exits in a row. Win that game, win a Cup. Lose that game and who knows who is on the roster in 2012.

Mike: Game 3 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals. After losing Horton, one of their best forwards, the Bruins showed what the entire franchise is essentially about. They grouped together, overcame adversity and pulled off an incredible comeback to win the Stanley Cup. To me, that game is the definition of Bruins' hockey.

Jon: For the new breed of fans, I think it would have to be Game 6 of the 2011 Finals. The way the Bruins just man handled the Canucks and dictated everything that happened in that game, you just knew they weren't losing Game 7. The confidence and drive they gained from that game was incredible. As soon as the puck dropped for Game 7 and you saw that still burning hunger in their eyes from their Game 6 demolition of Vancouver, Boston fans didn't even need to wait that 60 minutes. We knew the drought was over.

Goal: Bobby Orr

Obviously pick? Orr.

Less obvious? Bergeron's tripped from behind, scoring from his belly goal in Game 7 in the 2011 Finals. As much as Orr's goal defined the franchise historically, Bergeron's goal captured the essence of what the 2011 team will always be remembered for. He absolutely battled, refused to give up, refused to look to the ref when he was tripped and just kept fighting for that puck even after he was on his stomach. I guess that also defined the Bruins as a franchise. Rarely pretty, but virtually impossible to beat the fight out of them.

Greg: Bobby Orr flying through the air.

Here's the problem with that goal: I (and the rest of DOY) wasn't around for it. So lets go with something we were able to see live (or live on TV). I think Nathan Horton's Game 7 goal against Tampa Bay in the Eastern Conference Finals is probably one of the biggest goals in franchise history. Nathan Horton proved he was a clutch player with 2 Game 7 winning goals during that playoff run and with that goal, he was able to send the Bruins to the Stanley Cup Finals - the first in about 20 years for the club. Let's be honest, many people thought just getting to the Finals was an accomplishment.

Trade: Joe Thornton to San Jose for Marco Sturm, Brad Stuart and Wayne Primeau

First off, how bad was Wayne Primeau? Wait, I'm getting off topic.

I think this is trade is overlooked a lot when it comes to the Bruins. Thornton signed a huge deal (at the time) with the Bruins. I believe it was 3-year, $20-million dollar contract. That's huge, especially coming from an owner who had Ray Bourque (literally) crying for the team to spend more money so they can contend for a Stanley Cup. If you know anything about Boston before the 2004-2005 lockout, you know that Jeremy Jacobs wouldn't spend anything of his roster.

It was all about saving money since there was (virtually) no salary cap in hockey. So for Jeremy to hand out a contract like that was shocking. Even more shocking? Trading your captain for three scrub-ish players. What came out of that? The next offseason the Bruins signed Marc Savard and some dude named Zdeno Chara. The rest is history. (Greg)

Unsung Hero: Ken Hodge

Hodge spent nine seasons with the B's, surpassing 100 points twice and playing a vital role on the two Cup champion teams in 1970 and 1972. You don't hear his name as much as Orr, Esposito and Bucyk, but he was equally as important on those dominant Bruin teams in the 1970s. The original #8 even racked up a total of 62 penalty minutes in 1972 playoffs. Hodge was an ideal Bruin—a big bodied winger or who could hit, score and fight.

Franchise Villain: Ulf Samuelsson et al

In order: Ulf Samuelsson (WE LOVE YOU CAM!), Phil Kessel, Roberto Luongo, Everyone who has worn a Habs jersey from 1917 to present (sans Michael Ryder), Michael Ribiero's diving coach, Alain Vigneault, Whoever powered the original Boston Garden's electricity and Harry Sinden (oh wait, he was on our side?)

Fight: PJ Stock vs. Stephen Peat

I think there was about 100 punches thrown in 2-3 seconds. I think that fight personified the Bruins in the early 00's. They weren't that good, they weren't that skilled, but they'll stand up to the biggest guy out there and beat their faces until they bleed. (Greg)

Coach: Don Cherry

There have been plenty of forgettable Bruins coaches--Steve Kasper and Dave Lewis, to name a few—but none quite like Don Cherry. Cherry served as a coach for six years, five of which came with Boston. Under Cherry, the Bruins qualified for the playoffs each year and finished first in their division all but once. Though he never brought Boston a Cup like Cy Denneny, Art Ross, Cooney Weiland, Harry Sinden, Tom Johnson or Claude Julien did, his unique approach to the game and personality sticks out. (Mike)

Broadcaster: Fred Cusick

He gave the Bruins a voice but Jack Edwards gave them off the wall insanity, an "I don't care" broadcaster whose attitude matched the team's play on the ice. (Jon)

Arena Behavior/Tradition/Trend: Rene Rancourt Singing the Anthem

Much like Kate and Lauren Smith in Philly, Rene Rancourt singing the National Anthem is a distinct part of the Bruins in-game experience. Rancourt's pipes are still as solid as ever while his appearance and mannerisms haven't changed a bit after all of these years. Be sure to count the number of fist-pumps from Rancourt after the Anthem. If he hits three or more, things might get wild.

Arena Food

Mike: Other. Get a slice at Halftime Pizza before the game and head to the Fours afterwards.

Jon: People can afford food at the TD Garden?

Greg: Jeremy Jacobs owns a concession business and also happens to own an ice hockey team. So naturally JJ would put his own food in the arena where his hockey team plays. So I would say that the best arena food at the TD Garden can be found outside at Half Time Pizza across the street. Huge slices, 32 oz beers and a get in/get out atmosphere. Just make sure you get there early, it gets packed.

Swag (jersey, hat, shirt, gear, etc.)

Mike: Bruins' 2010 Winter Classic Jersey.

Essential? Probably not, but it's the one jersey that almost all Bruins' fans seem to own. Whether they got it as a gift during the holidays right before the Winter Classic or found it at Marshall's discounted for $30 two years later, it's almost a staple at all Bruins games, regardless of it being authentic, a replica, or a legitimate rip-off.  Just please stop wearing the Orr, Neely, Bourque and Seguin variations--pretty sure they weren't on the 2010 roster.

Jon: Bruins' Pooh Bear jersey. 'Nuff said.

Previously On Puck Daddy

The Essentials: New York Islanders edition

The Essentials: New York Islanders edition

Getty(This month, Puck Daddy asked bloggers for every NHL team to tell us The Essentials for their franchises — everything from the defining player and trade, to the indispensable fan traditions. First up: Gary Harding and the staff from Eyes on Isles bring us their essentials for the New York Islanders.)

By Gary Harding, Eyes on Isles

Player: Mike Bossy

There have been so many players that received the ultimate honor of the Hall of Fame -- Bryan Trottier, Billy Smith, Denis Potvin, Clark Gillies. But to us, Bossy was the one.  He averaged 50 goals a season (NO ONE WILL EVER REACH THAT FEAT) for his career; and if his aching back did not get the best of him, could have given The Great One a run for his money for the goal scoring titles.

Season: 1992-1993 (This may not be a popular choice, but …)

Winning four straight cups was outstanding, nineteen straight playoff series victories (ANOTHER RECORD THAT WILL NEVER BE BROKEN), but for me the expectations of 1993 were not necessarily visible, until the last few weeks of the season, when the team just amazingly jelled together. Then came the three overtime victories against the Caps, then the big win in Game 6 that saw Dale Hunter lay a nasty hit on Pierre Turgeon. Then the dramatic victory against the Stanley Cup Champ Pittsburgh Penguins. Darius Kasparitis making Mario Lemieux his little '[expletive]'. Then the pass from Ray Ferraro to David Volek to 'seal the deal'.

This series meant a lot to me (my relationship with my wife began that year), and I enjoyed those two months in 1993 as much as the Cup victories.

Game: April 11, 1975 and May 24, 1980 (tie)

Each of the four of us had a different game, but I am going with April 11, 1975. It only took just 11 seconds in overtime, but J.P. Parise, fresh off a trade from Minnesota, receives a pass from his former North Stars teammate Jude Drouin to stun the Rangers and take their first ever playoff series.  The Isles would go on to do the unthinkable that next series against Pittsburgh and win the series after being down three games to none. They almost did it again in the next round against the eventual Cup champ Flyers, but lost in Game 7.

This game told the NHL that you were now going to have to deal with the young Islanders, and they soon after showed what they were really made of.

At 7:11 of overtime on May 24, 1980, this was simply the goal that officially put the Islanders on the map as champions.

For those who are not sure what I mean: Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals. After the Flyers tied it up in the third period, Lorne Henning gets the puck to John Tonelli (offside?!).  Tonelli gets the puck to Bob Nystrom, who slipped the puck past Pete Peeters, to give Long Island its first of four Championships.

Trade: Butch Goring from Los Angeles for Billy Harris and Dave Lewis

The final piece to the Islanders puzzle.  Goring became the glue that made the Islanders champions.

Unsung Hero: Bobby Bourne

The Isles had their share of heroes, but the consensus pick goes to Bobby Bourne. His speed and ability to score the big "shorty" are attributes that got him in the Islanders Hall of Fame.  He was such an important member of the Cup-winning teams, but did not seem to get the articles and highlights that he truly deserved.

Franchise Villain: Dale Hunter

No brainer here, Dale Hunter for his unnecessary brutal hit on Pierre Turgeon after he gave the Islanders the series victory. The NHL gave Hunter a 21 game suspension, then the longest one to date. Any Islander fan thinks he should have had more.

Fight: Clark Gillies vs. Terry O'Reilly.

Any matches between these two foes were fantastic.

Coach: Al Arbour

His 1,499 (oops, 1,500) games, 739 (oops, 740) victories.  Four Stanley Cups. Enough said. (And NO — NO ONE had any votes for Mike Milbury; and no for Terry Simpson either)

Broadcaster: Jiggs McDonald

He is a Hall of Fame broadcaster, and his smooth, classy calls of games were just brilliant. He also had such a great rapport with Ed Westfall, and they always brought a smile during the call of a game.

Arena Tradition: The Chicken Dance

This was a tough one to come up with.  Not a lot of tradition at the old barn.  But whether the Islanders were playing the Rangers, or the Calgary Flames, whenever there was a break in the action, there was always this little song…

Arena Food: 1990 popcorn

We are talking about the Nassau Coliseum.  The food options are limited, and frankly not so good.  However, I remember years ago that GOAL magazine said that the Coliseum had the best popcorn in the NHL. Yes, this was in 1990. And now — they make it in the bowels on the building and it is not always fresh. Let's just leave it at that.

Swag: The Original Jersey

The Fisherman jersey does not take the top of the list.  Some think that jersey in 1995-1996 was the worst uniform EVER.  The original colors are just right.

The Essentials: Colorado Avalanche Edition

Getty Images(This month, Puck Daddy asked bloggers for every NHL team to tell us The Essentials for their franchises — everything from the defining player and trade, to the indispensable fan traditions. Here's James "Tapeleg" Gralian of Jerseys and Hockey Love, giving us The Essentials for the Colorado Avalanche.)

By James "Tapeleg" Gralian

The main talking points about the Colorado Avalanche over the past few seasons have been their fall from glory. The lack of playoff appearances would have been unheard of before the lockout, which changed a free-spending ownership into one handcuffed by a salary cap, and that saw previous mainstay players like Adam Foote and Peter Forsberg move on to greener pastures.

But the past was filled with glory when the Avs moved from Quebec City and settled down in Denver, CO, perhaps spoiling the fans a little bit. I prefer "building a strong fan base" myself, but hey, I'm biased (if not fair).

When Wysh asked me to take on this post, I could think of one person who I felt I needed on board with me, and that's my co-host and creator of The Avs Hockey Podcast Jay Vean. What he lacks in a nickname, he makes up for in his dedication and knowledge of the Avalanche. I couldn't have done this post without him.

So take a trip back with me though some of the best times and icons of the Avs. You will understand why the fans love them so much.

Player: Joe Sakic

There have been some great players to don the burgundy and blue, but none compare to "Super" Joe.

He leads every franchise record available to him, aside from penalty minutes. He was the captain of the team that all others will be compared to, drawing comparisons to former Red Wings captain Steve Yzerman. He was a first round Hockey Hall of Fame nominee, has eight playoff overtime game-winning goals (which is two more than anyone else in NHL history), is a Conn Smythe winner, an Olympic Gold Medalist and tournament MVP, and a two-time Stanley Cup winner.

Even with all that, Joe Sakic is the epitome of class. He rarely had anything negative to say, he just went out and played, and led by example. People didn't want to just play like Sakic, they wanted to act like Sakic. That's how a player defines a franchise. Joe did it all.

Season: 2000-2001

The Avs won the Stanley Cup in their first season in Denver, and it was a defining moment for hockey in Colorado, washing the bad taste of the Colorado Rockies away. But the 2000-01 season and the Mission 16W post season (for the 16 wins it takes to win the Cup) was simply magical for the fansSweeping Vancouver, being taken to the brink of elimination by the Kings, making short work of the Blues in five games, and the dramatic seven game Final against the Devils, the focus was on one man, Raymond Bourque, who came to Colorado to win a Cup after spending his previous years in Boston in futility. When the Cup was handed to Joe Sakic by Commissioner Gary Bettman, the captain handed it immediately to Bourque to hoist for the first time, and the victory lap. Avs fans still get choked up watching it. I know I do.

Game: Game 4, Stanley Cup Finals. June 10th, 1996. Avalanche 1, Panthers 0

The Avalanche had won the previous games in the series 3-1, 8-1, and 3-2. Game four, played in Florida, was going to be something else. It was a goalie battle. Nothing was going in, and both Patrick Roy and John Vanbiesbrouck played their hearts out.

I remember watching the game in a seedy bar in Denver when a friend called and said he had a seat for me at a downtown bar, game on the big screen. I told him, if the game goes to a third overtime, I was there. At the end of the 2nd OT, I raced to meet him, and shortly after I sat down, there was the goal.

Goal: Uwe Krupp, game winner, Game 4, Stanley Cup Final. June 10, 1996

An awkward backhanded clearing attempt by the Panthers is held in at the point by a defenseman. He winds up and shoots. Nothing has been going in the net, and there is no reason to think this one will. There is no reason to believe it will all end here, four and a half minutes into the third overtime. It seems like this game is going to go on forever.

But good things happen when you put the puck on the net. Sometimes it goes in, sometimes it deflects, sometimes it just sits there, waiting for someone to pounce.

And sometimes, heroes are made.

Uwe Krupp won a Stanley Cup with that goal. Just like the fantasies of children, winning the Cup in overtime with an unlikely shot. It solidified the Avs as the hometown heroes for years to come. If there is a more important goal in Avalanche history, I can't think of it.

Trade: Patrick Roy from the Montreal Canadiens

For all the great players on the roster, the 1996 (and 2001) Stanley Cup wins would not have happened if Patrick Roy hadn't been traded to the Avalanche. After being left in net for a shellacking, Roy came off the ice to tell the owner of the Canadiens that he had played his last game in a Habs sweater. He was traded to the Avalanche along with Mike Keane for Andrei Kovalenko, Martin Rucinsky and Jocelyn Thibault. Two Cups later, one in the same season he was traded, it's easy to say who won this trade.

Runner up: Eric Lindros traded by the Quebec Nordiques to Philadelphia for (via TSN) "Ron Hextall, Peter Forsberg, Steve Duchesne, Kerry Huffman, Mike Ricci, Chris Simon, 1st round selection (Jocelyn Thibault) in 1993, 1st round selection (later traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs, later traded to the Washington Capitals - Nolan Baumgartner) in 1994 and cash." I'll take that trade any day.

Unsung Hero: Stephane Yelle

I have to let Jay have the floor on this one. He nails it. -

"Had to think about this one a bit and I think Stephane Yelle could be the man. Sixth in Avs history in regular season games played, fifth in playoff games played, was on both cup teams, and did all the dirty work so the stars could do what they did best. Every great team has a Stephane Yelle-type player on it and every great team knows what players like Yelle mean to a team. The Avalanche were fortunate to have Yelle with them when things mattered most."

Franchise Villain: Todd Bertuzzi

Is there anyone else? Is anyone even close? After the infamous Steve Moore incident, there was no other person more applicable.

It doesn't get any uglier. Enough said.

Fight: Sakic vs. Gilmour and Roy vs. Red Wings Goalies

The Avalanche have had a few bruisers on the roster over the years, but when the unusual suspects drop the gloves, things get interesting. For instance, Joe Sakic vs. Doug Gilmour. It takes a lot to make Joe Sakic want to punch a guy in the face. But it happens.

But for my money, Patrick Roy fighting Mike Vernon in 1997 (which he lost) and Chris Osgood in 1998 (when he won the fight but lost the wrestling match) is some of the most entertaining fighting you will see. And it didn't hurt that it was against the Red Wings.

Coach: It's a Players' Team

Jay and I talked about this one, and we came to the conclusion that there simply isn't a defining coach for the Avalanche. The top three coaches the Avs had were Marc Crawford (who was the coach of the Vancouver Canucks when the Moore/Bertuzzi incident happened), Bob Hartley and Joel Quenneville (who was an assistant coach during the 1996 Cup winning season). But all of them have been overshadowed by the players and Pierre Lacroix, former GM and current team president. No one shaped the Avs more than Lacroix. Coaches be damned, this is a player's team, for better or for worse.

Broadcaster: Mike Haynes

Jay says …

"He's been around since the very beginning in either radio or television. Fans have to respect his enthusiasm, passion, and approach, especially after his aneurysm. Haynes' most famous line, "How you like them apples Gilmour?!?!?"

"For my money, I'm going with the less attended Marc Moser. He has more enthusiasm and passion for the team than anyone, and doesn't mind showing it in his exciting radio calls. But Jay still nails it."

Arena Behavior/Tradition/Trend: Quiet stoicism until the home team gets a lead

This is, to me, the most annoying part of the arena experience. The fans don't seem to be willing to cheer on the Avalanche until they get a goal. After that, they back the team vocally, but they don't give their love freely. There are fan efforts to change this by people like the Burgundy Brigade, but they have their work cut out for them. I would like to see the fans put a little more of their heart into the games early.

Arena Food: ?????

Bavarian Nuts? Mini-DDDDDDonuts? There isn't anything that really stands out to me. I guess you would have to say Breckenridge Avalanche beer, which has no relation to the team. Beer, that's food, right?

Swag: Burgundy 3rd Jersey

GettyThe third jersey of old has been criticized for being a ripoff of the Rangers style of jersey, and I can see what those people mean. But hockey traditions are born from the past, and the classic styling of the third jersey was complemented by the color scheme that highlighted the best color in the league.

Quite honestly, there just aren't that many people, jersey collectors or not and Avalanche fans or not, that don't like the look and feel of the old burgundy alternates. The point here is proven by the current third jersey, similarly styled to the old version, but with blue being the primary color.

The "Blueberry" jerseys also seem to be cursed, as the Avalanche lost many of their initial games wearing the new version. The burgundy third is dead, long live the burgundy third!

Previously On Puck Daddy

The Essentials: New York Islanders edition

The Essentials: Boston Bruins edition

The Essentials: Boston Bruins edition

(This month, Puck Daddy asked bloggers for every NHL team to tell us The Essentials for their franchises — everything from the defining player and trade, to the indispensable fan traditions. First up: It's Greg and Jon from Days of Y'Orr, with an assist from friend Mike Miccoli from The Hockey Writers, giving us an admittedly post-1970s look at the Boston Bruins' essentials.)

By Days of Y'Orr

Player: Cam Neely

Whenever people say that a certain player would fit the Bruins' style of play, they're making a Cam Neely comparison. Neely broke the mold and defined the role of a true power forward: someone who could score, hit hard and carry the team on his back when they needed him the most. Perhaps his most impressive year came in the 1993-94 season when he scored 50 goals in 49 games played. Injuries may have hampered his career but when you can't think of the Bruins without Neely. (Mike)

Season

Greg: 2008-09 season. To me, that season was what started this whole Bruins run. Prior to that season, Boston had always been mediocre at best. There was always the lingering heartache that Boston pulled every single season and every single post season. They made ridiculous signings (hi, Marty LaPointe) and they blew huge leads (hola, 3-1 lead on the Montreal Canadiens in the 2003-2004 playoffs). Suddenly, the Bruins broke out in the 2008-2009 season, running all over opponents to the tune of 116 points and 1st in the Eastern Conference. From that point on, Boston has been good at playing hockey and without that season, I don't think we see a Cup in 2011.

Mike: 2010-11. This isn't fair, I know it's not. In the 88 years of the Boston Bruins franchise, there have definitely been more important seasons than this one but in my 26 years on this Earth, I can't think of a more essential season for the black and gold. Looking back, from the drop of the puck in Prague to Brad Marchand's final goal in Game 7 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Final, everything clicked. The Cup rejuvenated the franchise, instilling faith where there once was despair and a new championship banner for the first time in 39 years in the rafters of the TD Garden.

Jon: 2009-10. This might not be a popular pick but I think the 2009-2010 season was at least the most definitive of my life time. You would think I'd put the 2011 Cup season here, but I believe the 2009-2010 season formed that team mentally. The Bruins had been teasing us for a number of season, leading fans to believe they were building towards the drought ending team. They entered the playoffs with such promise and were absolutely abusing the Flyers before their epic collapse. As painful as that Game 7 memory still is, without that soul crushing defeat I don't think the Bruins have the mental fortitude to come back from 0-2 deficits against the Canadiens and more importantly the Canucks in 2011.

Game

Greg: Game: 2011 playoffs, Game 7 against Montreal. People overlook this game because eventually Boston went on to win the Stanley Cup, but leading up to this there were so many questions and stories that I remember being nervous until the game was over. People started talking about the 2003-2004 playoff series, they noted that Zdeno Chara has never won a Game 7, they brought up the Philadelphia series the year before and the Carolina Hurricanes Game 7 the year before that.

If Boston loses that game they aren't Stanley Cup Champions (obvious statement is obvious), but it's deeper than that. If they lose that game, its possible that the team Peter Chiarelli put together doesn't exist because it would be three straight disappointing playoff exits in a row. Win that game, win a Cup. Lose that game and who knows who is on the roster in 2012.

Mike: Game 3 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals. After losing Horton, one of their best forwards, the Bruins showed what the entire franchise is essentially about. They grouped together, overcame adversity and pulled off an incredible comeback to win the Stanley Cup. To me, that game is the definition of Bruins' hockey.

Jon: For the new breed of fans, I think it would have to be Game 6 of the 2011 Finals. The way the Bruins just man handled the Canucks and dictated everything that happened in that game, you just knew they weren't losing Game 7. The confidence and drive they gained from that game was incredible. As soon as the puck dropped for Game 7 and you saw that still burning hunger in their eyes from their Game 6 demolition of Vancouver, Boston fans didn't even need to wait that 60 minutes. We knew the drought was over.

Goal: Bobby Orr

Obviously pick? Orr.

Less obvious? Bergeron's tripped from behind, scoring from his belly goal in Game 7 in the 2011 Finals. As much as Orr's goal defined the franchise historically, Bergeron's goal captured the essence of what the 2011 team will always be remembered for. He absolutely battled, refused to give up, refused to look to the ref when he was tripped and just kept fighting for that puck even after he was on his stomach. I guess that also defined the Bruins as a franchise. Rarely pretty, but virtually impossible to beat the fight out of them.

Greg: Bobby Orr flying through the air.

Here's the problem with that goal: I (and the rest of DOY) wasn't around for it. So lets go with something we were able to see live (or live on TV). I think Nathan Horton's Game 7 goal against Tampa Bay in the Eastern Conference Finals is probably one of the biggest goals in franchise history. Nathan Horton proved he was a clutch player with 2 Game 7 winning goals during that playoff run and with that goal, he was able to send the Bruins to the Stanley Cup Finals - the first in about 20 years for the club. Let's be honest, many people thought just getting to the Finals was an accomplishment.

Trade: Joe Thornton to San Jose for Marco Sturm, Brad Stuart and Wayne Primeau

First off, how bad was Wayne Primeau? Wait, I'm getting off topic.

I think this is trade is overlooked a lot when it comes to the Bruins. Thornton signed a huge deal (at the time) with the Bruins. I believe it was 3-year, $20-million dollar contract. That's huge, especially coming from an owner who had Ray Bourque (literally) crying for the team to spend more money so they can contend for a Stanley Cup. If you know anything about Boston before the 2004-2005 lockout, you know that Jeremy Jacobs wouldn't spend anything of his roster.

It was all about saving money since there was (virtually) no salary cap in hockey. So for Jeremy to hand out a contract like that was shocking. Even more shocking? Trading your captain for three scrub-ish players. What came out of that? The next offseason the Bruins signed Marc Savard and some dude named Zdeno Chara. The rest is history. (Greg)

Unsung Hero: Ken Hodge

Hodge spent nine seasons with the B's, surpassing 100 points twice and playing a vital role on the two Cup champion teams in 1970 and 1972. You don't hear his name as much as Orr, Esposito and Bucyk, but he was equally as important on those dominant Bruin teams in the 1970s. The original #8 even racked up a total of 62 penalty minutes in 1972 playoffs. Hodge was an ideal Bruin—a big bodied winger or who could hit, score and fight.

Franchise Villain: Ulf Samuelsson et al

In order: Ulf Samuelsson (WE LOVE YOU CAM!), Phil Kessel, Roberto Luongo, Everyone who has worn a Habs jersey from 1917 to present (sans Michael Ryder), Michael Ribiero's diving coach, Alain Vigneault, Whoever powered the original Boston Garden's electricity and Harry Sinden (oh wait, he was on our side?)

Fight: PJ Stock vs. Stephen Peat

I think there was about 100 punches thrown in 2-3 seconds. I think that fight personified the Bruins in the early 00's. They weren't that good, they weren't that skilled, but they'll stand up to the biggest guy out there and beat their faces until they bleed. (Greg)

Coach: Don Cherry

There have been plenty of forgettable Bruins coaches--Steve Kasper and Dave Lewis, to name a few—but none quite like Don Cherry. Cherry served as a coach for six years, five of which came with Boston. Under Cherry, the Bruins qualified for the playoffs each year and finished first in their division all but once. Though he never brought Boston a Cup like Cy Denneny, Art Ross, Cooney Weiland, Harry Sinden, Tom Johnson or Claude Julien did, his unique approach to the game and personality sticks out. (Mike)

Broadcaster: Fred Cusick

He gave the Bruins a voice but Jack Edwards gave them off the wall insanity, an "I don't care" broadcaster whose attitude matched the team's play on the ice. (Jon)

Arena Behavior/Tradition/Trend: Rene Rancourt Singing the Anthem

Much like Kate and Lauren Smith in Philly, Rene Rancourt singing the National Anthem is a distinct part of the Bruins in-game experience. Rancourt's pipes are still as solid as ever while his appearance and mannerisms haven't changed a bit after all of these years. Be sure to count the number of fist-pumps from Rancourt after the Anthem. If he hits three or more, things might get wild.

Arena Food

Mike: Other. Get a slice at Halftime Pizza before the game and head to the Fours afterwards.

Jon: People can afford food at the TD Garden?

Greg: Jeremy Jacobs owns a concession business and also happens to own an ice hockey team. So naturally JJ would put his own food in the arena where his hockey team plays. So I would say that the best arena food at the TD Garden can be found outside at Half Time Pizza across the street. Huge slices, 32 oz beers and a get in/get out atmosphere. Just make sure you get there early, it gets packed.

Swag (jersey, hat, shirt, gear, etc.)

Mike: Bruins' 2010 Winter Classic Jersey.

Essential? Probably not, but it's the one jersey that almost all Bruins' fans seem to own. Whether they got it as a gift during the holidays right before the Winter Classic or found it at Marshall's discounted for $30 two years later, it's almost a staple at all Bruins games, regardless of it being authentic, a replica, or a legitimate rip-off.  Just please stop wearing the Orr, Neely, Bourque and Seguin variations--pretty sure they weren't on the 2010 roster.

Jon: Bruins' Pooh Bear jersey. 'Nuff said.

Previously On Puck Daddy

The Essentials: New York Islanders edition

The Essentials: New York Islanders edition

Getty(This month, Puck Daddy asked bloggers for every NHL team to tell us The Essentials for their franchises — everything from the defining player and trade, to the indispensable fan traditions. First up: Gary Harding and the staff from Eyes on Isles bring us their essentials for the New York Islanders.)

By Gary Harding, Eyes on Isles

Player: Mike Bossy

There have been so many players that received the ultimate honor of the Hall of Fame -- Bryan Trottier, Billy Smith, Denis Potvin, Clark Gillies. But to us, Bossy was the one.  He averaged 50 goals a season (NO ONE WILL EVER REACH THAT FEAT) for his career; and if his aching back did not get the best of him, could have given The Great One a run for his money for the goal scoring titles.

Season: 1992-1993 (This may not be a popular choice, but …)

Winning four straight cups was outstanding, nineteen straight playoff series victories (ANOTHER RECORD THAT WILL NEVER BE BROKEN), but for me the expectations of 1993 were not necessarily visible, until the last few weeks of the season, when the team just amazingly jelled together. Then came the three overtime victories against the Caps, then the big win in Game 6 that saw Dale Hunter lay a nasty hit on Pierre Turgeon. Then the dramatic victory against the Stanley Cup Champ Pittsburgh Penguins. Darius Kasparitis making Mario Lemieux his little '[expletive]'. Then the pass from Ray Ferraro to David Volek to 'seal the deal'.

This series meant a lot to me (my relationship with my wife began that year), and I enjoyed those two months in 1993 as much as the Cup victories.

Game: April 11, 1975 and May 24, 1980 (tie)

Each of the four of us had a different game, but I am going with April 11, 1975. It only took just 11 seconds in overtime, but J.P. Parise, fresh off a trade from Minnesota, receives a pass from his former North Stars teammate Jude Drouin to stun the Rangers and take their first ever playoff series.  The Isles would go on to do the unthinkable that next series against Pittsburgh and win the series after being down three games to none. They almost did it again in the next round against the eventual Cup champ Flyers, but lost in Game 7.

This game told the NHL that you were now going to have to deal with the young Islanders, and they soon after showed what they were really made of.

At 7:11 of overtime on May 24, 1980, this was simply the goal that officially put the Islanders on the map as champions.

For those who are not sure what I mean: Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals. After the Flyers tied it up in the third period, Lorne Henning gets the puck to John Tonelli (offside?!).  Tonelli gets the puck to Bob Nystrom, who slipped the puck past Pete Peeters, to give Long Island its first of four Championships.

Trade: Butch Goring from Los Angeles for Billy Harris and Dave Lewis

The final piece to the Islanders puzzle.  Goring became the glue that made the Islanders champions.

Unsung Hero: Bobby Bourne

The Isles had their share of heroes, but the consensus pick goes to Bobby Bourne. His speed and ability to score the big "shorty" are attributes that got him in the Islanders Hall of Fame.  He was such an important member of the Cup-winning teams, but did not seem to get the articles and highlights that he truly deserved.

Franchise Villain: Dale Hunter

No brainer here, Dale Hunter for his unnecessary brutal hit on Pierre Turgeon after he gave the Islanders the series victory. The NHL gave Hunter a 21 game suspension, then the longest one to date. Any Islander fan thinks he should have had more.

Fight: Clark Gillies vs. Terry O'Reilly.

Any matches between these two foes were fantastic.

Coach: Al Arbour

His 1,499 (oops, 1,500) games, 739 (oops, 740) victories.  Four Stanley Cups. Enough said. (And NO — NO ONE had any votes for Mike Milbury; and no for Terry Simpson either)

Broadcaster: Jiggs McDonald

He is a Hall of Fame broadcaster, and his smooth, classy calls of games were just brilliant. He also had such a great rapport with Ed Westfall, and they always brought a smile during the call of a game.

Arena Tradition: The Chicken Dance

This was a tough one to come up with.  Not a lot of tradition at the old barn.  But whether the Islanders were playing the Rangers, or the Calgary Flames, whenever there was a break in the action, there was always this little song…

Arena Food: 1990 popcorn

We are talking about the Nassau Coliseum.  The food options are limited, and frankly not so good.  However, I remember years ago that GOAL magazine said that the Coliseum had the best popcorn in the NHL. Yes, this was in 1990. And now — they make it in the bowels on the building and it is not always fresh. Let's just leave it at that.

Swag: The Original Jersey

The Fisherman jersey does not take the top of the list.  Some think that jersey in 1995-1996 was the worst uniform EVER.  The original colors are just right.