What Do You Want to Know?

by Ben Rothenberg on Dec 13, 2011 7:01 AM EST in Enhance Your Experience

Unlike Allen Iverson and Travis Hughes, I like practice.

Thusly, I will be at the Flyers morning skate today at 11 at the Verizon Center in Washington, and hope to be able to do another brief interview with a Flyer, like the one I did with Scott Hartnell in October.

Since I talked to him, Scott Hartnell has scored 14 goals in 23 games and publicly embraced #hartnelldown, becoming everything we could have ever hoped for in the process.

So, with my transformative powers in mind, whom should I talk to today? And what would you like for me to ask him? Put your suggestions in the comments below (or if you want you can also tweet them to me at @brothenhockey), and I'll read them before (and during) the skate, and try to use some of them in my interview*.

*I make absolutely no guarantees that I will talk to who you want or ask what you want. But I absolutely do want to get a general feel for what demand is like here.

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Rinaldo

He gets a lot of crap in the press and on this blog. I’d like to hear more about how he likes to play hockey, and how the coaches WANT him to play hockey intersect.

by Bummer161 on Dec 13, 2011 7:32 AM EST reply actions

i wanna know

if he sealed the deal with the chick he brought into my bar last night. haha. zach’s got some game with the ladies.

by 62kirk on Dec 13, 2011 8:51 AM EST up reply actions

Wow, Rinaldo? That is one desperate puck bunny.

I <3 our rookies.

by LeepinLizardz on Dec 13, 2011 9:53 AM EST up reply actions

Low self-esteem.

"I wouldn’t run if there was a fire. I wouldn’t run anywhere. I hate running." - O. Munn

by doubleh on Dec 13, 2011 10:11 AM EST up reply actions

………..

Following Dan Carcillo where ever he may go
Read, Rinaldo and Sestito Flyercrushes until his return

by Cillo stache on Dec 13, 2011 1:20 PM EST up reply actions

Um. No offense.

I <3 our rookies.

by LeepinLizardz on Dec 13, 2011 1:37 PM EST up reply actions

He is a really nice dude actually, and a (no homo) decent looking dude as well. Tips more than well and is a great customer. I can say the same for Matt Read and Harry Z. All cool guys who are very down to earth and can pull some pretty good looking tail. I

I was really impressed with Matt Reid. Kid just loves the game. He was told about Crosby being out indefinitely and he went on to talk about how much it sucks for Sid, and that it is something every hockey player thinks about. Last week or so when they played the Pens, he said his whole family flew out from Minnesota to see him play. He said it was always his dream to play against the best in the world, and when Crosby wasn’t able to play that night, he was really disappointed. Matt Reid is my new favorite Flyer. Plus the dude can pull tail too.

by 62kirk on Dec 14, 2011 3:05 AM EST up reply actions

How about JVR? kid could use something right now

by Dlance04 on Dec 13, 2011 8:06 AM EST reply actions

+1

"Fly Eagles fly..."
"Only the Lord saves more than Bernie..."

by 92-74-99-96 on Dec 13, 2011 8:20 AM EST via mobile up reply actions

Ugh, JVR might be the worst interviewee ever

by mantis toboggan on Dec 13, 2011 8:21 AM EST up reply actions

So many, so little time but thanks Ben!

If Bob, how’s married life?

If Sean, what has surprised him most about being in the big league?

If Jagr, what has surprised him most being back in the States?

Or for anyone, what was their favorite moment this past year?

If Brzy doesn't do right by Bob I'll kick his $51 million ass across the WFC.
And yes, I'm a female redhead.

by BHMB on Dec 13, 2011 8:12 AM EST reply actions

If Bryz, given that the NJ Nets owner wants to run against Putin, which hockey owner he’d like to run for President (either country is ok).

GMAT verbal section question, Philadelphia sports version.
In 2015, which one of the following will prove to be a better investment?
(a) Ilya Bryzgalov's contract (b) Ryan Howard's extension (c) Mike Vick's extension (d) Greek bonds from 2009 (e) Papelbon's bloat deal

by Bud in TN on Dec 13, 2011 11:47 AM EST up reply actions

I read that story also, immediately thought of you. Then began thinking about how his presidential candidacy impacts the Devils franchise.

by mtitanic on Dec 13, 2011 11:56 AM EST up reply actions

Devils = Evil Empire
/Ronald Reagan’d

by Bud in TN on Dec 13, 2011 12:23 PM EST up reply actions

The combination of the caption, and the pic up top, is truly inspiring. How about a couple of “Attaboys!” to Giroux and a few motivational words about how we believe in him to JVR? I’m banking on you working your ispirational magic yet again.

"Fly Eagles fly..."
"Only the Lord saves more than Bernie..."

by 92-74-99-96 on Dec 13, 2011 8:20 AM EST via mobile reply actions

To Briere: what did you do to Laviolette to make him put a rookie between Jagr and Hartnell (whom you’ve worked well with for some time now) instead of you?

Often wrong, but never in doubt.

by A Flyers Phamily on Dec 13, 2011 8:26 AM EST reply actions

To keep some stability betwen the lines?

by Anders Jensen on Dec 13, 2011 8:50 AM EST up reply actions

A thought I considered, but then I realized they are puling a rookie up from the fourth line to fill in on the top line. I don’t expect it to last long.

Often wrong, but never in doubt.

by A Flyers Phamily on Dec 13, 2011 8:56 AM EST up reply actions

OH EM GEE! A ROOKIE!

For all I care the whole league can underestimate the Scooter. He had 2 excellent chances to score last game and himself admitted that he wasn’t quite ready for such good passing. I absolutely believe he will be ready tonight, hence why I replaced Giroux in my fantasy lineup with him.

by kckrebs on Dec 13, 2011 1:00 PM EST up reply actions

Bob would be awesome, but he seems like the kind of guy who wouldn’t talk to any media, at least not in English. But maybe if you work your charms…

I <3 our rookies.

by LeepinLizardz on Dec 13, 2011 8:28 AM EST reply actions

Question: -whatever ben asks –
Answer: “Bob.”

Great interview.

Maxime Talbot - in the Orange and Black ... better than chocolate and peanut butter!

by MaximumTalbot on Dec 13, 2011 10:46 AM EST up reply actions

Nodl. Too soon Don?

Talbot- Are you hoping to not look like Lappy at the end of your 5 year contract?

Pronger- Are you planning to get “LTIR” tattooed on your body?

Walker- Do people walk around you expecting that there wet floor somewhere near you?

"Call me dumb, call me stupid, whatever. I block shots."
#FireRoseman
@boknows71

by boknows71 on Dec 13, 2011 8:49 AM EST reply actions

Ask Couturier about taking over Giroux’s spot on the top line. Pressures, expectations, etc.

by SJPhillyVT on Dec 13, 2011 9:39 AM EST reply actions

and what he wants for christmas (hopefully its his two front teeth)

-tim
Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood. ~ Daniel H. Burnham

by edesjardins37 on Dec 13, 2011 10:08 AM EST up reply actions

Oh its more than just 2 hahaha

by kckrebs on Dec 13, 2011 1:01 PM EST up reply actions

eh its kinda cute

Following Dan Carcillo where ever he may go
Read, Rinaldo and Sestito Flyercrushes until his return

by Cillo stache on Dec 13, 2011 1:21 PM EST up reply actions

Since I talked to him, Scott Hartnell has scored 14 goals in 23 games and publicly embraced #hartnelldown, becoming everything we could have ever hoped for in the process.

So Ben having face to face discussions with the players is the new version of the Rothenboost?

Warning: Arguing the NHL CBA with me could be hazardous to your mental health. Proceed at your own risk.

by DragonGirl0583 on Dec 13, 2011 9:50 AM EST reply actions

Well, I’ve got Hartnell, Simmonds and JVR on my fantasy team. You’ve already worked your magic on Hartnell, so one or both of the others would be nice. JVR probably needs it more.

But a Bryz interview would practically guarantee hilarity.

Lightning strikes once, Hextall strikes twice!
"I think there is virtue in pissing off idiots." - Fehr and Balanced

by hintzy64 on Dec 13, 2011 10:04 AM EST reply actions

I would be most interested in hearing from Simmonds (Wayne Simmonds for Sheriff!), Coultier (ask him about nhl vs juniors), or Rabbit (JVR’s nick from the sadly departed FGSB)

by Th3T1ck on Dec 13, 2011 10:10 AM EST reply actions

Scott Hartnell: Ask how he got so good at sneaking off the ice before the team scores in order to preserve is incredible +/- rating.

-tim
Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood. ~ Daniel H. Burnham

by edesjardins37 on Dec 13, 2011 10:18 AM EST reply actions

Ask Anyone: Who is going to end up mostly on the cutting room floor in HBO 24/7 this year (aka the “Mike Knuble”)?

-tim
Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood. ~ Daniel H. Burnham

by edesjardins37 on Dec 13, 2011 10:20 AM EST reply actions

just show them all pictures or video of katy perry

that way they all score MOAR goals!

by reaper1221 on Dec 13, 2011 10:21 AM EST reply actions

Wayne Simmonds

Ask him how his verticle jump is so horrible. I could get up higher and I am nowhere near a proffesional athlete.

by The Karl Hungus on Dec 13, 2011 10:28 AM EST via mobile reply actions

Jagr

1) Why did he choose to play for the Flyers when so many other teams (including the Pens) made offers?

2) Who does he feel is the heart-and-soul of the team, being a veteran of so many teams?

3) Does he see that the rookies are benefiting from observing his workouts and work ethic? Or has it aided some older players just as much to emulate him more?

4) How has the NHL game changed while he was off playing in the KHL? Has it changed more in those years than it did after the lockout?

5) Since Bundy is in the broadcast booth now, which defenseman seems to really ‘have your number’?

Maxime Talbot - in the Orange and Black ... better than chocolate and peanut butter!

by MaximumTalbot on Dec 13, 2011 10:52 AM EST reply actions

If you interview Bob, I’m curious to know if Bryz has helped mentor him during the season? I think that was a preseason story line and I wonder if it has actually happened.

I would also like to listen to a Matt Read interview!

www.southpawcurve.blogspot.com - check out my baseball blog!!

by JLS89 on Dec 13, 2011 10:56 AM EST reply actions

I’m pretty sure Bob has said no to that question. Something along the lines of “no, he hasn’t…I’m sure he would if I asked, but I’m my own person with a different style and just because he’s Russian doesn’t mean we are the same sort of goaltender.”

Probably one of Teemu’s articles?

Also, wouldn’t Bob answer any of Ben’s questions with a perfectly enunciated General American dialect saying “I don’t speak English” ?

Follow @iJewJitsu

Ecstatic to be joing the Florida Panthers Organization!! Awesome day... Truly a dream come true.

- @ScottieUpshall (July 1, 2011 2:15pm EST)

by iJewJitsu on Dec 13, 2011 11:20 AM EST up reply actions

Yup, Bob already said he’s his own player and hasn’t sought any mentoring.

Lightning strikes once, Hextall strikes twice!
"I think there is virtue in pissing off idiots." - Fehr and Balanced

by hintzy64 on Dec 13, 2011 12:12 PM EST up reply actions

Ask any of the rookies if they really feel comfortable sharing a locker room with so many gingers.

by ohnickels on Dec 13, 2011 11:04 AM EST reply actions

Sean Couturier

1) How do you feel about being thrust into the first line centermen position?
2) Are you nervous to play along side of Vets like Jagr and Harts?
3) How do you compare your game to Gs? What are similarities, differences/
4) Do you see yourself being with the Flyers for an extended amount of time, being the #8 overall pick and all?
5) What has been the toughest moment of your young NHL career so far?

Flyers fan trapped in Arlington Virginia. Invading the Verizon Center twice a year, and road-tripping to Wells Fargo as many times as I can...

by brf132 on Dec 13, 2011 11:06 AM EST reply actions

Sean Couturier

1.) How have you been able to adjust your game so well from juniors to the NHL? Considering you were a league leading offensive threat during your tenure in junior but have now been thrust into a shut down defensive role.

2.) How excited are you to play a full game on a top line with Jeremy Jogger?

3.) You got several chances in the last game thanks to JJ, are you gonna bury one this time around?

4.) Who’s been your best mentor so far this year?

5.) Did you lose all those teeth at the same time?

by kckrebs on Dec 13, 2011 11:07 AM EST via mobile reply actions

Combine our questions and have a super-mega-interview?

Flyers fan trapped in Arlington Virginia. Invading the Verizon Center twice a year, and road-tripping to Wells Fargo as many times as I can...

by brf132 on Dec 13, 2011 11:18 AM EST up reply actions

YES!

by kckrebs on Dec 13, 2011 11:58 AM EST via mobile up reply actions

Simmonds.

That is all.

Follow @iJewJitsu

Ecstatic to be joing the Florida Panthers Organization!! Awesome day... Truly a dream come true.

- @ScottieUpshall (July 1, 2011 2:15pm EST)

by iJewJitsu on Dec 13, 2011 11:23 AM EST reply actions

“As a member of the 1%, do you support having your taxes raised to pay for a payroll tax cut for the 99%?”

“Which of your teammates has the worst personal hygiene?”

“How would you explain Eurovision to a toddler?”

“If you were married to a Kardashian and you got traded to Dallas, would you expect her to move with you?”

“Which of your teammates would be most likely to eat a bucket of worms for $20?”

@BSH_EricT
Writer at Broad Street Hockey

by Eric T. on Dec 13, 2011 11:42 AM EST reply actions 1 recs

Alternately, “if you were married to a Kardashian and then seperated after ‘x’ days, would you attempt to have it annulled as fraud?”

Follow @iJewJitsu

Ecstatic to be joing the Florida Panthers Organization!! Awesome day... Truly a dream come true.

- @ScottieUpshall (July 1, 2011 2:15pm EST)

by iJewJitsu on Dec 13, 2011 12:01 PM EST up reply actions

These are fantastic.

Lightning strikes once, Hextall strikes twice!
"I think there is virtue in pissing off idiots." - Fehr and Balanced

by hintzy64 on Dec 13, 2011 12:13 PM EST up reply actions

actually i dont think theyd be the 1 %…i think thats over 10 million yearly….why you heff to be political?

by reaper1221 on Dec 13, 2011 12:37 PM EST up reply actions

For the sake of accuracy, the top 1% of incomes in the US is anything above about $380,000 annually. (source)

by ohnickels on Dec 13, 2011 12:58 PM EST up reply actions

wow thats wayyyy lower than i thought….not really that much when some people ask some1 in that bracket to pay 70%….well you just reinforced my feelings on that subject thanks

by reaper1221 on Dec 13, 2011 1:38 PM EST up reply actions

i just cant believe some1 who makes like 60k is in the upper 25%

by reaper1221 on Dec 13, 2011 1:38 PM EST up reply actions

You clearly haven’t seen a lot of America.

SB Nation Tennis -- Fuzzy yellow balls.
Broad Street Hockey.

by Ben Rothenberg on Dec 13, 2011 1:39 PM EST up reply actions

i dont get out much..i mean not to throw number out like somekind of dick bag but if that thing is true that chart puts my family in like the upper 20% but its not like we all drive a lexus or a nice car..but i guess with 5 kids and my sisters boyfriend in the house that takes an effect

by reaper1221 on Dec 13, 2011 1:43 PM EST up reply actions