The Senators were picked by just about everyone and their mothers to finish first and win the Stanley Cup. Thus far they have done little to dissapoint. They are first in the NorthEast Division with 72 points and are second overal in the league (2 points behind the surprising Carolina Hurricanes, who have been one of the few teams able to solve the Senators this year).

The trade of Marian Hossa to Atlanta for Dany Heatley, has really been one of great success for both clubs. Heatley was the perfect compliment for Alfredsson and Spezza (originally it was slated to be Brandon Bochenski and not Alfredsson, after a ridiculous pre-season, but he froze up in the regular season and was sent down to the minors). Hossa has not lost a step in Atlanta with 61 points and is helping to bring the Thrashers their first playoff birth in franchise history (they are currently 8th overall in the East).

The top line of Daniel Alfredsson (70 points), Dany Heatley (67points), and Jason Spezza (54points) continues to dominate. They are a combined +87, which means, and to quote Ivan Drago's manager from Rocky IV..."Whatever he hits....he destroys!" As if that wasn't enough, the Senators top defensive pairing of Zedeno Chara (29 points, +21) and Wade Redden (39 points, +31) are both having Norris calibre seasons. What's left? Dominik Hasek in goal. Who at the age of 40 still continues to play at an extremely high level (see my fantasy report article to see how much buttocks he is kicking).

Playoff Beard Alert:
Daniel Alfredsson is one of my Top 5 picks for best beard this year. Why? Well in the past, he has shown tremendous skill in the facial hair category, and his lid was so big 2 years ago Michal Handzus was quoted as saying "that guy needs a trim". Given that and the extremely good chances that Ottawa will be playing into the later rounds, I expect to see Alfredsson looking like the Wolfman and ordering the roast duck with the mango salsa.

Last Nights Scores:

Minnesota 3 Columbus 4 F
New Jersey 0 Florida 4 F

Game of the Night:

Detroit at Dallas 2:00 PM

Both teams are humming, and as I said in Thursday's GOTN, you have to beat Dallas in regulation because they don't lose in the shootout. Colorado didn't take my advice and of course, Dallas won its seventh consecutive game on shootout and remain undefeated in it. By the way, if this one does go to a shootout....psssst....Manny....Jussi Jokinen will be going to the backhand. Enjoy the games!

Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh