Devils complete sweep of Rangers, Sens finish off defending champs
The Devils knocked the Rangers out their first playoff appearance since the 1996-97 season in a quick four games. Jaromir Jagr missed game 2, played injured in game 3 but was not really a factor, and was knocked out of game 4 early. The Rangers biggest problems were their carefree taking of penalties. They were way too undisciplined. This first round series was not really about what the Rangers did wrong, rather it is about what New Jersey did right. Their defense is back to its very stingy play, and Martin Brodeur has his game back. The power play unit is incredibly efficient and their top forwards, Elias, Gomez, Gionta and Langenbrunner are hot right now. I still stand by this team as Eastern Conference Champs, and if they continue to play the way they did in the first round it will be hard to argue with me! For more on this game and the series visit TSN.ca.
Martin Havlat did it again. Providing the game winner for the Senators in the 3-2 victory over the Lightning last night and finishing off the defending Stanley Cup Champions in 5 games (i predicted a sweep). Ray Emery seems to have solidified the goaltending questions in Ottawa for now, but I'm wondering what will Coach Murray do if Hasek is cleared to play in the later rounds? That's a tough call. Replace your goalie who has carried you through a month and half of regular season and one round of the playoffs so far, with a world class, fresh of the IR, over 40 goalie who hasn't played since early February? Anyone? For more on this game and the series visit TSN.ca.
Edmonton is one game away from winning the series over Detroit. WHAT? After last night's 3-2 win over Detroit, the Oilers now lead the series 3-2 and can finish off Detroit on Monday (hang in there Jeff, I'm sure Detroit will force a Game 7, and how cool would that be!?). For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
Jarome Iginla scored two goals and carried the Flames to victory over the Ducks 3-2 and helped his team to a 3-2 series lead. Are these two teams evenly matched or what? It's a shame that only one can continue on. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Last night's scores:
Edmonton 3 Detroit 2 F New Jersey 4 NY Rangers 2 F
Tampa Bay 2 Ottawa 3 F
Anaheim 2 Calgary 3 F
Tonight's games:
Philadelphia at Buffalo 2:00 PM
Colorado at Dallas 2:00 PM
Montreal at Carolina 7:30 PM
San Jose at Nashville 8:30 PM
Welll alright! All the teams I picked to move on to round 2 appear to be waking up! Dallas thank you for showing up finally! I was beginning to look like a complete jackass for supporting this team as a Stanley Cup finalist (I'm pretty sure I still look like a jackass however).
Niklas Hagman scored two goals and Marty Turco got the Stars going by racing to a puck and slamming into Alex Tanguay. The Stars went on to beat the Avs 4-1 and prevent elimination bringing the series to 3-1. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Rob Brind'Amour scored the game winner last night to help the Carolina Hurricanes defeat the Montreal Canadiens 3-2 last night and even up the series 2-2. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
R.J. Umberger of the Philadelphia Flyers, who one week ago was doing his best Eric Lindros impression, scored the game winner to lead his team over the Sabres 5-4 and tie the series up at 2-2. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
It's do or die time for the Rangers and Lightning today. Their counterparts the Devils, and Senators are prepared to wrap things up today. Enjoy the games!
Last night's scores:
Carolina 3 Montreal 2 F
Buffalo 4 Philadelphia 5 F Dallas 4 Colorado 1 F
Tonight's games:
Edmonton at Detroit 3:00 PM
New Jersey at NY Rangers 3:00 PM
Tampa Bay at Ottawa 7:00 PM
Anaheim at Calgary 10:00 PM
Wings and Ducks draws even, Sens and Sharks prepare to close
Niklas Lidstrom, the heir apparent to this year's Norris Trophy, scored the game winner on a 5-3 to help the Wings beat the Oilers 4-2, and tie the series at 2 games a piece. Holstrom and Zetterberg also tallied power play goals in a game loaded with penalties. Oiler nation seems pretty pissed regarding the officiating in the third (however my buddy Jeff is a happy man today!).....for more on this visit TSN.ca.
The Senators and Lightning game looked very similiar to Game One of the series. Tight play and a very even game until Ottawa finally pounced to break the game open. Heatley, who's having a pretty good playoffs for a first timer, broke the 2-2 tie with a power play goal off a feed from Havlat. Havlat scored shortly after to give the Sens a 2 goal lead. Ottawa went on to defeat the Lightning 5-2 and take a commanding 3-1 series lead. How great has Martin Havlat been? 5 goals and 3 assists! In fact he, Spezza and Heatley have all had a great start to the playoffs. The Senators have really got some firepower up front. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Sean O'Donnell is making me look a little smarter today for picking the Ducks over Calgary. His goal in OT last night gave the Ducks a 3-2 victory and tied the series 2-2 with the Flames. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
It looks like Joe Thornton's playoff beard will continue to flourish, thanks in large part to Patrick Marleau's outstanding play. Marleau deposited a hatrick last night against the Predators and helped the Sharks to a 5-4 win, and 3-1 series lead. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Playoff Leaders:
Jason Spezza 2 Goals 7 Assists 9 Points Dany Heatley 2 Goals 6 Assists 8 Points Patrick Elias 3 Goals 5 Assists 8 Points Martin Havlat 5 Goals 3 Assists 8 Points Mathieu Schneider 1Goal 6 Assists 7 Points
Playoff Beard Leaders: Joe Thornton Kyle McKlaren Robert Esche Peter Forsberg Chris Mason
Freisen Award : Daniel Alfreddson
Last night's games:
Ottawa 5 Tampa Bay 2 F Detroit 4 Edmonton 2 F
Calgary 2 Anaheim 3 F (OT)
Nashville 4 San Jose 5 F
Tonight's Games:
Carolina at Montreal 7:00 PM
Buffalo at Philadelphia 7:00 PM
Dallas at Colorado 10:00 PM
The Habs lost more than a game to the Carolina Hurricanes last night. Apparenlty their captain Saku Koivu will be out for undetermined amount of time due to an eye injury which occurred when he was struck accidentally by Justin Williams stick. He is still in the hospital being tested. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
It's been roughly a decade since an NHL playoff game has been held at Madison Square Garden, and it was obvious that this city missed it. I was fortunate enough to be there last night to welcome back this tradition which has been absent for far too long. I can't remember a time when the Garden was this loud. The stadium was shaking with excitement, with 'Let's Go Rangers!' chants...and one minute and eight seconds into the game there was silence.
The New Jersey Devils did exactly what they needed to do. They removed the crowd from the equation, and played solid, mistake free hockey, capitalized on Ranger mistakes, and calmly sat back as Martin Brodeur brilliantly backstopped them to a 3-0 victory.
Jaromir Jagr did dress last night, but he was more of a symbolic figure on the ice, unable to really produce because of his 'upper body' injury. The Rangers have only been able to score two goals in the 3 games thus far, and have been unable to prevent the Devils from lighting up the scoreboard. Gomez, Elias, Gionta, and Langenbrunner have been outstanding. Matvichuk was outstanding on defense last night, especially down low. He prevented a few Ranger scoring chances last night.
The Rangers and Devils will play again on Saturday, and most likely close out the series. The Devils hold a 3-0 series lead. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
I didn't really see any of the other games, and aside from some scoreboard watching can't really tell you much. It looks like Carolina and Philadelphia finally woke up, and Colorado is getting ready to pull out their brooms on Dallas. Please check out TSN.ca for more on all of these series!
Last night's scores:
Carolina 2 Montreal 1 F (OT) New Jersey 3 NY Rangers 0 F
Buffalo 2 Philadelphia 4 F
Dallas 3 Colorado 4 F (OT)
Tonight's games:
Ottawa at Tampa Bay 7:00 PM
Detroit at Edmonton 9:30 PM
Calgary at Anaheim 10:00 PM
Nashville at San Jose 10:30 PM
April 26th Show
The highs, the lows, the playoffs. We'll be talking about the first round of the playoffs thus far. Who are the surprises?? Who are the dark horses?? We'll tell you our picks. Lyle Richardson from Spector's Hockey will be on to talk not only about the playoffs, but also to talk about the new openings in the coaching ranks. Not only the NHL, but we'll take a look at the playoffs around the minor pro ranks. Also, it's minor league silly season as teams leave, teams come back, and all craziness ensues. All that, plus a whole lot more-- listen in for how much more we can pack in.
Jarret Stoll put a rebound past Manny Legace after stopping Samsonov to help the Oilers to a 4-3 double overtime victory over the Red Wings and a 2-1 series lead. The Red Wings appeared to had it won 15 minutes into the first overtime, but the puck actually slid under the side of the net as Roloson bumped the goal off its moorings. The video replay obviously took some wind out of the Red Wings sails.
It looks like the Red Wings are having some difficulty containing the speed of the Oilers. They are not completely outmatched, but it is certainly an advantage. Dwayne Roloson has been playing exceptionally as well, and perhaps is proving Kevin Lowe right in making the move for him (although I still think he gave up too much for him, but if Rolo can take the Oil on a run.....I'll eat those words). For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
Wade Redden returned (with a goal and 2 assists), and so did the Ottawa Senators, as they slammed the Lighting 8-4 last night and took control of the series 2-1. The Senators brought a physical game along with their offense last night, so much so that Dany Heatley and Zdeno Chara dropped the gloves against their counterparts from Tampa Bay. Chara had Lecavalier pinned to the ice and held the hammer over his head but didn't drop it! Lucky for him! For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Flames roast Ducks! Anything? Anything? Well they did! Calgary went on the road to Anaheim and hammered the Ducks 5-2. I tried to watch this game, but it appeared to be out of hand so I limited my channel jockeying to Sharks / Preds and Wings / Oilers. Calgary has not really been an offensive juggernaut this year but their powerplay seemed to click last night and Giguere was a little soft last night. I wonder if Byzgalov will return for Thursdays match? Calgary now leads the series 2-1. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
The Sharks look like they have found their game. Defeating the Predators at home 4-1, the Sharks took a 2-1 series lead. Patrick Marleau scored 2 of the goals and continues to prosper in the shadow of Joe Thornton. Chris Mason was solid in net despite giving up 4 goals, he really made some nice saves.
Playoff Beard Alert: Three notables in this series. Joe Thornton is already sporting a beauty. This guy goes another round, he's ordering the Roast Duck with the Mango Salsa. Chris Mason is also growing an excellent beard, one that the Amish would be proud of. My favorite, and perhaps complete surprise is Kyle McKlaren! This guy looks like Wolverine right now!
Special teams killed the Rangers last night again, this time however it was John Madden and New Jersey's penalty kill, who provided two short handed goals. John Madden went on to score a hatrick and help the Devils defeat the Rangers 4-1 and give New Jersey a 2-0 series lead over the Rangers. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
The Flyers who I picked, and I'm sure many others did (not you Playoff Moustache) to beat the Sabres are suddenly on their heels after Saturdays double OT loss, and last night's 8-2 rout. Esche got yanked in favor of Nittymaki, but the damage was done after he surrendered 5 goals. J.P. Dumont and Jason Pominville both recorded hatricks in the 8-2 victory. The Sabres lead the series 2-0. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Joe Sakic scored just 5 minutes into overtime last night to give the Avs a 5-4 win over Dallas and take a 2-0 series lead. Again, another team I have cursed by not only picking them to win this series but to meet the Devils in the Finals. The boys in Texas are making Bosh look silly. For more on this mess visit TSN.ca.
Cristobal Huet....I think you can put a down payment on that new house and boat brother. Granted last night's victory had nothing to do with goaltending, you have certainly helped the Habs get where they are and they are obviously playing with a ton of confidence in front of you! Michael Ryder scored less than 3 minutes into the second overtime to help the Canadiens defeat the Hurricanes 6-5 and take a 2-0 series lead. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
This game rocks.
Last night's scores:
Philadelphia 2 Buffalo 8 F Montreal 6 Carolina 5 F (2OT)
NY Rangers 1 New Jersey 4 F Colorado 5 Dallas 4 F (OT)
Tonight's games:
Ottawa at Tampa Bay 7:00 PM
Calgary at Anaheim 10:00 PM
Detroit at Edmonton 10:00 PM
Nashville at San Jose 10:30 PM
For those of you who didn't see Campbell pancake Umberger on Saturday night, here is a great video of it provided by the gang over at DeadSpin.com. They are going to have to rename this the 'Lindros-cam'.
Home Ice Advantage? What's that? All four road teams delivered yesterday, and tied all four first round series at 1 game a piece. Edmonton defeated Detroit 4-2, San Jose took advantage of Nashvilles undisciplined play and won 3-0, Tampa Bay delivered a strong effort in a 4-3 victory over Ottawa, and Anaheim survived a late game rush by Calgary to win 4-3. How sweet was the short handed goal by Lupul from Selanne? Long series anyone? For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Jagr's status uncertain: Reports out from the NY Post say that they expect Jagr to shrug off whatever injury he may have sustained during the Devils game 1 route of the Rangers. However, TSN.ca's is saying that Jagr won't play tonite and may be back for game 3 or 4. I guess we'll find out sooner than later?
Last night's scores:
Edmonton 4 Detroit 2 F San Jose 3 Nashville 0 F Tampa Bay 4 Ottawa 3 F Anaheim 4 Calgary 3 F
Tonight's games:
Philadelphia at Buffalo 7:00 PM
Montreal at Carolina 7:00 PM
NY Rangers at New Jersey 7:00 PM
Colorado at Dallas 9:00 PM
The Rangers first playoff game since the spring of 1996-97 was a rough one. The Devils took advantage of a completely undisciplined effort by their New York counterparts, capitalizing on 6 power play opportunities (technically five, but the PP had ended 1 second prior to the third goal). What made things worse, it appeared while trying to shove Patrick Elias, Jaromir Jagr injured his left arm. With less than 5 minutes remaining in the game, Jagr had to be escorted from the ice. If Jagr is out, New York's chances are very slim. If they commit the number of penalties they did yesterday, it will most certainly be a sweep by New Jersey. The Devils did everything right yesterday, their power play unit was outstanding, and their penalty kill was effective in the 6-1 victory. The Devils lead the series 1-0. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
The Rangers werent' the only team mailing in lackluster performances yesterday. The Carolina Hurricanes got crushed by Montreal 6-1 and Dallas was shelled by the Colorado Avalanche 5-2.
The Buffalo Sabres and Philadelphia Flyers gave us a very entertaining game 1 and a prelude of what is obviously going to be one of the best series in this round. The Sabres won the game on a Briere goal in the 2nd OT last night to give his team the 3-2 victory over the Flyers. Let's talk about physicality....if you missed the hit by Campbell on RJ Umberger last night.....wow....talk about a Scott Stevens flashback. Eric Lindros was quoted watching the game last night "You have to be an idiot to skate through the neutral zone with your head down like that....and I think tomato soup is great." This series is going to get ugly.
Last night's scores:
Colorado 5 at Dallas 2 F
NY Rangers 1 at New Jersey 6 F
Philadelphia 2 at Buffalo 3 F/OT Montreal 6 at Carolina 1 F
Today's games:
Edmonton at Detroit 1:00 PM
San Jose at Nashville 1:00
Tampa Bay at Ottawa 6:00
Anaheim at Calgary 9:00 PM
Ottawa was getting chances last night, but Grahame was stopping everything, until Havlat pulled a sweet move to tie the game, and essentially open the doors. Spezza put a wrist shot past the near post on another powerplay just a minute later. Penalties ended up killing the Lightning last night, even when they were on the Power Play, Schaefer and Fisher combined for a beautiful shorthanded goal. Ray Emery was superb in his first playoff start. Ottawa leads the series 1-0. For more on this visit TSN.ca
PLAYOFF BEARD ALERT: I swear I'm not joking here.....Daniel Alfreddson is sporting the FRIESEN! I almost fell of the couch! This is a must see!
Detroit and Edmonton had to goto a second overtime last night to decide the winner, which came from Kirk Maltby who threw the puck at the net almost blind. It was redirected by an Oiler stick and through the pads of Roloson. Maltby scored twice last night. Detroit leads the series 1-0. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
Darren McCarty, another former Red Wing, had a big night last night by scoring the game winner in overtime for the Calgary Flames! Calgary beat Anaheim 2-1 in OT and now leads the series 1-0. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Nashville got what they paid for when they signed Paul Kariya. He assisted on all 4 goals last night and helped the Predators to a 4-3 victory over the Sharks last night! Nashville leads the series 1-0.
Last night's scores:
Edmonton 2 Detroit 3 F (2OT)
Tampa Bay 1 Ottawa 4 F
San Jose 3 Nashville 4 F
Anaheim 1 Calgary 2 F (OT)
Tonight's games:
Colorado at Dallas 3:00 PM
NY Rangers at New Jersey 3:00 PM
Philadelphia at Buffalo 7:00 PM
Montreal at Carolina 7:00 PM
Finally! After two long miserable years, playoff hockey is upon us! At this time, you should have your razors away, and your Molson packed in fresh ice, remote in hand, and feet up (Salt and Vinegar chips are always a great addition as well).
Here are the games on tonite's card:
Edmonton at Detroit 7:00 PM
Tampa Bay at Ottawa 7:00 PM
San Jose at Nashville 8:00 PM
Anaheim at Calgary 10:00 PM
I'm not going to pick a Game of the night because I think you should watch all of them. If I had to pick one that you absolutely must watch....I think I would have to go with Anaheim and Calgary. Two reasons. When in doubt, always go Canadian. I know I sound like a broken record, but the broadcast quality is far superior. Secondly, of the 8 teams playing tonite, I think Anaheim and Calgary are the most evenly matched. However, the ways these games are scattered throughout the evening, you should be albe to watch large chunks of all three. Anyway, enjoy the games my friends, and enjoy the playoffs.
Top 5 Playoff Beard Picks: (in no particular order)
Robert Esche
Daniel Alfreddson
Sergei Zubov
Erik Cole (if he plays)
Scott Neidermayer
St. Louis Blues win 2006 Draft Lottery, hold first pick
Vancouver, June 24th, the St. Louis Blues will draft first overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. Pittsburgh will pick second, Chicago third, Washington fourth and Boston fifth. Here is a run down of the non-playoff teams draft order:
1. St. Louis Blues
2. Pittsburgh Penguins
3. Chicago Blackhawks
4. Washington Capitals
5. Boston Bruins
6. Columbus Blue Jackets
7. New York Islanders
8. Phoenix Coyotes
9. Minnesota Wild
10. Florida Panthers
11. Los Angeles Kings
12. Atlanta Thrashers
13. Toronto Maple Leafs
14. Vancouver Canucks
The rest of the teams will be decided after the playoffs conclude. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
I guess the writing was on the wall....especially with the vote of confidence by GM Ferguson back in January. Pat Quinn was fired as coach of the Maple Leafs this morning. Quinn spent 7 years behind the bench for the Leafs and was never able to get them to the Stanley Cup finals. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
I didn't do too badly this year during the Olympics (Sweden winning the gold was all me!! Although I did pick Canada to medal, thanks for showing up guys), so hopefully I'll keep that momentum going. So here are my breakdowns of the first round.
EAST Ottawa vs. Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is in the playoffs because Alexander Ovechkin and the Caps made it so. They barely made it to the post season. Against the Senators, they have no chance. Even without Hasek, the Senators will be a very difficult team to beat. Ottawa should make short work of the Lightning. Playoff Beard Prediction: Ottawa in 4.
Playoff Beard Alert:Daniel Alfreddson should begin sporting some scruff in this round. He should be among the leaders this year in playoff beards. Last year Martin St. Louis looked like Grizzly Adams but this season he won't have time to grow one.
Carolina vs. Montreal
Carolina didn't finish particularly strong, and just got edged out by the Sens for first overall in the East. Montreal has been playing well behind some really great goaltending from Huet and Aebischer. I think this could be one of the better series in the first round. Carolina has been really solid all year, and should contend for the Stanley Cup. Playoff Beard Predicition: Carolina in 6
Playoff Beard Alert:Have to give my boys at the Face Off Hockey Show the nod on this one. Erik Cole. If he plays, watch out! His facial hair matches his skill.
New Jersey vs. New York
The Rangers have made it back to the playoffs. However they are going into the playoffs losing 6 straight, and not playing the kind of hockey that got them there. New Jersey on the other hand has to be one of the hottest teams in the league right now. Both of these teams match up well, but New Jersey has so much playoff experience I have to give them the edge. The X-factor here is that Marty has never beaten the Rangers in the post season, so I wonder if little things will get to him. I doubt it though. It kills me to do this, and I hope I'm wrong. Playoff Beard Prediction: New Jersey in 6.
Playoff Beard Alert:Half of New Jersey's lineup will be looking like cavemen this postseason. Keep an eye on Madden, and Pandolfo....especially Pandolfo.
Buffalo vs. Philadelphia
Another great matchup (who am I kidding, they are all pretty good). Buffalo and Philly are pretty evenly matched. I would give the edge in goaltending (slightly) to Buffalo, and the offense to Philly (depends on Forsberg). I can see this one going the distance. Playoff Beard Prediction: Philadelphia in 7
Playoff Beard Alert:Forsberg is already a hairy bastard, and the Flyers should go far into the playoffs, so he will be doing his Cousin It impression soon. Handzus, Gagne, and Hatcher have potential too. The playoff beard master of this team....Robert Esche. This guy is one of my top five. Watch it grow...he's like a human chia pet.
WEST
Detroit vs. Edmonton
Detroit should end this one quickly. There only real uncertainty is in net, but I think they more than make up for lack of experience there, everywhere else. Edmonton has had a great season, but they barely made the big dance this year as well. Playoff Beard Prediction: Detroit in 5
Playoff Beard Alert:Shanahan. This man grows a magnificent chin-mullet, and judging by the strength of this team, he will ample time to groom it.
Dallas vs. Colorado
A playoff rivalry renewed. Colorado is another team that should thank San Jose for smacking the Canucks out of the post season. Goaltending, goaltending, goaltending. Will Theodore be on....or off? Marty Turco is the man and should contend for the Vezina this year. Dallas has had a great season and it should continue into the playoffs. Playoff Beard Prediction: Dallas in 6
Playoff Beard Alert:Turco has potential. Zubov is the man to watch. He is also in my top five and a contender for the Playoff Beard Title.
Calgary vs. Anaheim
Calgary boasts one of the best defenses in the league, and perhaps the best goalie. Unfortunately, their offense is a little stagnant. Jarome Iginla still hasn't found the perfect centerman, and thus hasn't had the kind of season Flames fans have hoped for. Anaheim has been very hot, and barrelled into playoff position over a month ago, after a shaky start. This should be a very evenly matched series. Playoff Beard Prediction: Anaheim in 7
Playoff Beard Alert:The Neidermayer brothers, and Giguerre. I swear these guys are decendants of wookies. Scott Neidermayer is a top 5 playoff bearder, and if Anaheim can go deep, this guy will be signing a contract with ZZ Top in the off season.
Nashville vs San Jose
A month ago I would have said Nashville, but things have changed. Nashville will be without top netminder Vokoun entering the playoffs, and facing two of the hottest forwards in the league. Leading goal scorer Jonathan Cheechoo, and MVP candidate Joe Thornton. San Jose is entering the playoffs hot. Playoff Beard Prediction: San Jose in 5
Playoff Beard Alert:Keep an eye on Thornton. He's never been past the first round of the playoffs so it's hard to say, but I've seen playoff beard potential there.
That's it folks. Those are my breakdowns, and predictions. As for the final two teams. That is a really tough call. I said, along with most people, that it would be Ottawa and Calgary, but many people, myself included have had a change of mind. Here is my call for the final two:
WOW! Down 3-1 to Montreal, the Devils scored three times to defeat the Canadiens and claim the Atlantic Division title! I really have to tip my hat to this team. Since the New Year, they have played some unbelievable hockey, and a month ago, I actually had written them off. What a turnaround! Lou Lamoriello and the rest of this organization is to be commended on always finding a way to keep this machine running. Losing two defensemen of Neidermayer and Steven's calibre and still being able to keep the Devils winning is truly impressive. Congratulations!
Onto the playoffs!
Here are the first round matchups:
East
Ottawa vs. Tampa Bay
Carolina vs. Montreal
New Jersey vs. New York
Buffalo vs. Philadelphia
West
Detroit vs. Edmonton
Dallas vs Colorado
Calgary vs. Anaheim
Nashville vs. San Jose
I'll have my predictions for the first round, Stanley Cup finalists, and of course, best playoff beards tomorrow!
Regardless of what happens, I just want to thank the Rangers for a terrific season! You guys have exceeded everyone's expectations, that everything else right now is gravy! Enjoy the Playoffs guys, you earned it!
Last night's scores:
Buffalo 4 Carolina 0 F
Dallas 4 Columbus 5 F (OT)
Atlanta 1 Florida 2 F (OT) Philadelphia 4 NY Islanders 1 F Ottawa 5 NY Rangers 1 F New Jersey 4 Montreal 3 F Washington 4 Tampa Bay 1 F
Pittsburgh 3 Toronto 5 F
Detroit 3 Nashville 6 F
St. Louis 2 Chicago 3 F (OT)
Sidney Crosby became the youngest player in the NHL ever to reach the 100 point mark in one season. He had three assists last night in the Pens 6-1 victory over the Isles. Sidney Crosby has 38 goals and 62 assists on the season. Crosby tied the rookie scoring record set by Mario Lemieux in 1984-85. Look for great things from this kid in years to come. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
The Penguins and Capitals have some great seasons ahead of them!
Nice headline huh? Ranger fans, the next time you rain boos down upon Kevin Weekes....remember who used to be your mainstay between the pipes.
Mike Dunham crumbled under the pressure last night and gave up two goals less than 30 seconds apart, and was pulled by Coach Marc Crawford in the fourth minute of the game. Ovechkin and the Capitals played huge spoilers last night to the Thrashers who needed the win to setup a post season berth with tonites game against Florida. The Capitals 6-4 win over the Thrashes have finalized the last two spots in the post season for Montreal and Tampa Bay. I'm really not sure who they should thank....Ovechkin, or Dunham.
Dunham returned to the ice after Garnett was injured, and managed to give up the lead for the second and final time. He allowed 5 goals on the night. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
Tonight marks the end of the regular season. The Rangers, Flyers, and Devils are all battling to decide who will take the Atlantic crown this evening, and Montreal and Tampa Bay are fighting for position. Friday, April 21st, the playoffs start, and the shaving stops!
Last night's scores:
Dallas 2 Detroit 3 F
Atlanta 4 Washington 6 F
NY Islanders 1 Pittsburgh 6 F
Colorado 2 Edmonton 4 F
Calgary 3 Anaheim 4 F Los Angeles 4 San Jose 0 F
Game(s) of the night:
Philadelphia at NY Islanders 7:00 PM
Ottawa at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
New Jersey at Montreal 7:30 PM
The Atlantic Division title is on the line tonite. All three of these games are huge! Enjoy the games!
2 spots, 3 teams. Montreal, Tampa and Atlanta, fighting for the 7th and 8th playoff spots. Montreal is in 7th with 93 points, 1 game remaining, Tampa Bay is in 8th place with 92 points, 1 game remaining, and Atlanta sits 9th, with 89 points, 2 GAMES REMAINING!
If Atlanta loses to Washington tonite, it's all over. Mathematically they will be eliminated, and Montreal and Tampa Bay's final games will decide positioning. However if Atlanta wins, they will pull 1 point behind Tampa, and 2 behind Montreal. Keep your fingers crossed for that, because here's what will follow....
All three teams will play games on the final day of the regulation season, and that is going to require some serious remote channel jockeying. Here are the games for Tuesday:
Atlanta at Florida 7:00 PM
Washington at Tampa Bay 7:30 PM
New Jersey at Montreal 7:30 PM
Now, just when you thought it couldn't get any more interesting, the Devils, after defeating the Flyers (thoroughly) 5-1 yesterday, have pulled into a 2nd place tie with them, and both teams are just 1 point behind the Rangers. The last game of the season will decide who wins the Atlantic Division! Here are the matchups for Tuesday:
Ottawa at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
New Jersey at Montreal 7:30 PM
Philadelphia at NY Islanders 7:00 PM
Tonight, all eyes are on Atlanta. If they win, it will be a very exciting Tuesday night! The playoffs are almost here gang!
Last night's scores:
Philadelphia 1 New Jersey 5 F
Toronto 0 Buffalo 6 F
Columbus 3 Chicago 4 F Phoenix 3 St. Louis 0 F
Game of the night:
Atlanta at Washington 7:00 PM
See Above! Enjoy the games!
Toronto showed up, but it was a little too late. Their 5-1 victory over the Senators kept their hopes alive, but only for about 9 minutes as the Tampa Bay Lightning (who Leafs needed to lose to stay alive) went on to defeat the Carolina Hurrincanes in OT 3-2. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
The Rangers may have blown their chances at winning the Atlantic Division by getting thoroughly dominated by the Flyers last night. The Flyers looked like the team everyone thought they would be last night, especially Forsberg, as they easily beat the Rangers 4-1 last night. The Flyers and the Devils both have an opportunity to take the Division now. See the Game of the night!
Last night's scores:
Boston 3 Atlanta 4 F
Minnesota 3 Dallas 4 F (OT)
NY Rangers 1 Philadelphia 4 F
Anaheim 3 San Jose 6 F
Chicago 2 Columbus 5 F Buffalo 4 Montreal 2 F
Pittsburgh 4 NY Islanders 5 F (SO)
Ottawa 1 Toronto 5 F Washington 2 Florida 1 F (SO)
Carolina 2 Tampa Bay 3 F (OT)
Phoenix 1 Nashville 5 F Detroit 3 St. Louis 2 F
Colorado 3 Vancouver 4 F (OT)
Calgary 1 Los Angeles 2 F (SO)
Game of the night:
Philadelphia at New Jersey 1:00 PM
Another Atlantic Division battle. If the Flyers win, they overtake the Rangers. If the Devils win, they pull into a second place tie with the Flyers with 99 points, 1 point behind the Rangers. Enjoy the games!
With Carolina beating Tampa Bay 5-4 in a shootout last night, they have left the door open for the Atlanta Thrashers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. The wildness of the playoff sprint has shifted from the West (which cleared up Thursday) to the East. This may go down to the final games! For more on the game last night visit TSN.ca.
Don't look now, but the New Jersey Devils have turned their season around and after a bad start, and are now just three points out of the Atlantic Division lead. The Rangers who hold the first place spot, are battling Philly and NJ, both with 97. The Rangers play the Flyers today at 2, and the Flyers play the Devils tomorrow at 1! How big are these games! I love this sport!
Last night's scores:
Tampa Bay 4 Carolina 5 F (SO)
Games of the night:
Yeah their are a bunch worth watching, especially after Tampa Bay's loss last night:
NY Rangers at Philadelphia 2:00 PM
Battle for the Atlantic.
Boston at Atlanta 2:00 PM
Buffalo at Montreal 7:00 PM
Ottawa at Toronto 7:00 PM
Carolina at Tampa Bay 7:30 PM
Atlanta, Toronto, Montreal and Tampa Bay are all battling for the final two playoff spots. Enjoy the games!
As the buzzer sounded to end the game last night in San Jose, it also marked the end of playoff hopes for the Canucks as they fell for the second straight night to the Sharks 5-3. The Colorado Avalanche, and the Edmonton Oilers officially clinched the 7th and 8th playoff spots.
What the hell happened? Injuries? Perhaps. They did lose some key defenseman, but their GM made some crafty moves to acquire decent replacements. Was it Dan Cloutier? Perhaps his loss in net was a bigger hole to fill than originally thought?
I think the blame has to fall on the top line of Naslund, Bertuzzi and Morrison. Especially Naslund and Bertuzzi. Both of these guys were a combined -37! Marcus Naslund had an average year with 31 goals, and 47 assists, but much of his scoring was done on the power play with 42 points. He is closing out the year with a -19. Bertuzzi has 24 goals, and 46 assist and 32 points coming from the PP. Bertuzzi is currently a -18. To put it bluntly, Vancouver's top line was such a liability that opponents were more likely to score against when they were on the ice. These two need learn how to back check.
On the bright side, Aanson Carter has found his game, and a home between the Swedish Sedin twins (on any other site, that would be really hot!). Carter will wrap the season up with 32 goals, and 22 assists. The Sedin's had great seasons as well, Henrik has 18 goals 56 assists, and Daniel has 22 goals, 49 assists.
Ovechkin finally got his 50th last night! How great is this kid gonna be for the league!
Last night's scores:
Washington 3 Atlanta 5 F Montreal 4 Boston 3 F
St. Louis 1 Columbus 4 F Toronto 4 NY Islanders 3 F (OT)
Philadelphia 1 New Jersey 4 F Florida 5 Ottawa 4 F (OT)
NY Rangers 3 Pittsburgh 5 F
Minnesota 2 Nashville 4 F Detroit 7 Chicago 3 F
Colorado 0 Calgary 2 F
Anaheim 1 Edmonton 2 F
Los Angeles 0 Phoenix 3 F
Vancouver 3 San Jose 5 F
Game of the night:
Tampa Bay at Carolina 7:00 PM
Only one game tonite, but its a big one. Tampa Bay has only a 2 point lead over the Thrashers, and is barely holding onto the 8th playoff spot. Enjoy the games!
As if this year couldn't get any better for us Ranger fans! Our young stud defenceman, 2005 first round draft pick, and younger brother of sophomore NHL phenom Eric Staal has played himself into the Rangers starting lineup!! We should get a glimpse of our future mainstay on the blue line this Saturday against the Flyers. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
Ok, when I say Game of the Night....I mean Game of the Night! Did that game kick ass or what? The Sharks battled back twice to hand Vancouver a costly 5-4 loss last night! The Sharks tied it up in the third and closed the door on the Canucks, just 34 seconds into overtime on Christian Erhoff's game winner. Joe Thornton was pretty much shut down by the Canucks stingy defence, only allowing him 4 assists. Nice work! The Canucks play San Jose again tonite and if they lose, then their playoff chances are over. For more on this check out TSN.ca.
Sean Avery of the L.A. Kings appears to have shot his mouth off one too many times. Avery has not been suspended, but he is not travelling with the team and will not play in the final three games for the Kings according to officials. Ummm....isn't that a suspension? For more on the second coming of Mike Danton click here.
Last night's scores:
Montreal 1 Buffalo 3 F San Jose 5 Vancouver 4 F (OT)
Game of the night:
Anaheim at Edmonton 9:00 PM
Vancouver at San Jose 10:30 PM
Both of these games are huge, so you are required to watch them both. Come on, after last nite would I steer you wrong? If Vancouver wins, and Edmonton loses, they are in. If Vancouver loses, then it's back to the hash bars with the lot of yous. Enjoy the games!
In 9 days, 16 teams, and over 400 players will take part in a century old right of passage and watch the stock price of Gilette dip slightly. To help simplify the chaos of the playoffs, and the unprecedented hair growth that follows it,we bring you the Playoff Beard Guide to Grading the Beard.
This simple and easy to follow guide will help you grade the Playoff Beards that you will bear witness to starting April 21st. Below you will find the five stages of the Beard during its transformation throughout the four rounds of the NHL playoffs.
STAGE 1: The Kristofferson
Round 1 of the playoffs offers some of the most exciting hockey, and a variety of playoff beards (although at this point they are still in the fetal stage of growth) . Starting with 16 teams, and often going to 7 games, this round gives us a chance to view beard potential, and future beards.... unfortunately, beard potential must also be followed up with skill, determination and teamwork on the ice, or one will find themselves shaving on the golf course....or in this instance helping Wesley Snipes fight Vampires. STAGE 2: The Chaka
Towards the end of round 1 and entering round 2, those who have chosen to go natural will begin to emerge. Many players are beginning to look like the retarded half monkey / half ewok thing from 'Land of the Lost', or like Peter Forsberg does on a daily basis.
STAGE 3: The Mango Salsa
End of round 2, beginning of round 3, we start to see the real playoff beard veterans take center stage. We have officially entered the Ice Age, and players are now really fighting for survival, and for respect with that representative from Geico. At this point, you really shouldn't have much of an appetite. Thank you.
STAGE 4: The Castaway
WILSON!!! In this case however Wilson is not a finely manufactured piece of lawn sports equipment....it is a gleaming beacon of hope symbolized by one Stanley Cup. By the end of round 3, the best teams will be showcasing FedEx quality hair growth. If you think you see Jesus, it's ok, there is no need to call your priest.
STAGE 5: The Chewbacca
The Stanley Cup finals will bring us facial hair growth that only George Lucas could be proud of (and perhaps willing to sue for over copyright infringement). This is the time of year when Rob Neidermayer, and Ray Bourque, stop looking human, and resembled helmets stuffed with hair. Chewbacca would most likely retort with something poetic, only to have the entire cast laugh at him because they don't understand his language and feel more comfortable treating him like a stray dog, than an equal. He only flew the Millenium Falcon for love of pete! I digress,... perhaps the finest Playoff Beards will be on display in the final round. In the past, the legends of the sport, like Esche, Giguerre, and even St. Louis become wookies on ice.
WHEN BEARDS GO WRONG: The Freisen
Oh Jeff. Oh no. Perhaps the worst attempt ever at a playoff beard was the porn star / Wyatt Earp special that Jeff Freisen tried to pull off a few years ago. The effort was there. The genetics however...ooooh......in another line of work, his facial hair could have been put to good use. In the NHL however, it was misplaced. Better luck next time Officer Freisen!
This concludes our lesson folks. Over the next 9 days, you will hear my playoff predictions, the Stanley Cup winner, end of year awards, and perhaps the most coveted of honors....I will give you my picks for Playoff Beard favorites! Stay tuned!
After last evenings 2-0 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, the Detroit Red Wings have clinched the President's Trophy and home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs.
I have to say that I didn't believe the Red Wings would be one of the teams that would adjust well to the new rules. They proved me wrong. A veteran team, but a team nonetheless, and they have once again continued to dominate in this NHL. Detroit has to be considered a legitimate contender for the Stanley Cup this year, and I wouldn't be surprise to see this team emerge from the West.
With about 3 games remaining for most teams in the league, there are still some spots available. New Jersey clinched a playoff berth last night with their victory over Carolina, but the 7th and 8th spots held by Montreal and Tampa Bay are still open. Atlanta and Toronto have not been mathematically eliminated yet. In the West, 6, 7 and 8th spots held by Colorado, San Jose and Edmonton are still available. Vancouver has a legitimate chance, and Los Angeles an outside, but not very realistic shot. GOOD STUFF!
Last night's scores:
New Jersey 4 Carolina 3 F (OT) NY Islanders 3 NY Rangers 2 F
Pittsburgh 3 Philadelphia 4 F
Edmonton 0 Detroit 2 F
Boston 3 Ottawa 4 F (OT) Atlanta 6 Tampa Bay 2 F
Florida 5 Toronto 6 F (OT)
Chicago 0 Minnesota 2 F Nashville 2 St. Louis 0 F
Columbus 2 Dallas 3 F
Anaheim 0 Calgary 3 F
Phoenix 4 Colorado 6 F
Game of the night:
San Jose at Vancouver 10:00 PM
HUGGGGE GAME!!! HUUUUUGE!!! If you don't watch this one, you are on crack......and why the hell aren't you sharing? Enjoy the games!
The force is strong with this one. Sometime today, future Hall of Famer Luc Robitaille will announce his decision to retire. With three games remaining and the likelihood of the Kings making the playoffs almost an impossibility, the Kings will celebrate their star forward. The highest scoring left winger ever in the game and the star of Sudden Impact, has a total of 668 goals, and 726 assists. His career spanned 1,428 regular seasons games and brought him to Pittsburgh, New York, Detroit and Los Angeles. He played in 159 playoff games, tallying 58 goals and 69 assists, and helped the Red Wings to a Stanley Cup victory in 2002. For more on Luc, visit TSN.ca.
Ovechkin broke the 100 point mark last night with a goal in a 2-1 overtime win against the Bruins last night. One shy of 50, Ovechkin has had an amazing season. This kid will clearly win the Calder trophy this year, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him take the MVP next year. He's that good.
Anaheim and the Niedermayer brothers may have crushed Vancouver's playoff hopes last night with a 4-2 victory. Scott and Rob scored early to give the Ducks a 2-0 lead. The win helped Anaheim clinch a playoff berth. Playoff Beard Alert: Thank goodness! Scott Niedermayer is a playoff beard veteran. If the Ducks can last a round or two this guy will look like Jesus on ice!
One final note, to the jackass broadcaster in Ottawa (don't know your name, but you know who you are), Daniel Alfredsson has had a terrific year, but in no way is he even close to having an MVP calibre season. There are 6 guys ahead of him in points, and he hasn't even hit 100, and most likely won't. I love watching your broadcasts up in Canada, but sometimes you color guys get a little too biased on your boys up North. Take a step a back and think before you talk. Saying Daniel Alfredsson is a candidate for the MVP trophy is like saying the French were pivotal in winning World War II.
Since I'm on the topic, here are my thoughts for MVP, it should come down to Jagr, Thornton, and possibly Ovechkin. Strong consideration could go towards Turco and Kiprussoff as well, but I think the points Jagr and Thornton have put up will be difficult to ignore. I'll make my final picks later this week.
Last night's scores:
Washington 2 Boston 1 F (OT)
Ottawa 2 Montreal 3 F San Jose 3 Phoenix 2 F Anaheim 4 Vancouver 2 F
Game of the night:
Edmonton at Detroit 7:30 PM
Edmonton needs this one bad. They hold the last playoff spot with 3 games remaining, and have only a 2 point lead over 9th place Vancouver. Expect the Oilers to battle hard for this one. Enjoy the games!
Three spots are left in the East, and it looks like the current owners of those playoff positions will retain them. New Jersey sits in 6th (and has a very really chance at overtaking Philly who are only two points ahead), Montreal and Tampa are tied for 7th with 89 points. Sitting outside is Atlanta with 83 points and 5 games remaining.....at this point I think Harry Hamlin has a better chance of winning an Oscar than the Thrashers do at making the playoffs.
The West....what a mess....and I mean that in a good way. I feel as though everytime I bring this up, we will get a better idea as to who will make and who won't. Well I think this is going to go down to the final games. 4 spots, 5 teams.....and we have ourselves a million dollar game of musical chairs ahead of us. Anaheim in 5th with 94 points, Colorado in 6th with 92 and San Jose and Edmonton tied for 7th with 91. Vancouver can pull into a three way (nice!) tie with San Jose and Edmonton with a victory over Anaheim (Game of the Night plug) tonight. 5 points separate these 5 teams, so al loss for Anaheim would be devestating as well. I said the playoffs have already started before....and I know thats the type of cheesy thing you would hear out Bill Clement, and Gary Thorne sitting in a hot tub with a cardboard cut out of Stevie Y., but really folks, they are here! Dare I say.....stop shaving today? NO NO!! Soon my friends soon!
PlayoffBeard Alert:
Lot's to come in the next 11 days. As you know the playoffs begin April 21st, and so does the beard. I will have my picks for the playoffs, my picks for beard favorites, a comprehensive guide to grading the beard, as well as my end of the year award picks. Keep it locked it at the Beard!!!
Last night's scores:
Tampa Bay 3 Florida 6 F
Edmonton 1 St. Louis 2 F
NY Rangers 2 New Jersey 3 F Minnesota 5 Colorado 2 F
Dallas 1 San Jose 4 F
Game of the night:
Anaheim at Vancouver 10:00 PM
See above. Enjoy the games!
Jagr becomes Ranger's All time leading Goal Scorer!
Not since Mark Messier has a player come to the Rangers and made himself the face of the team, carried the franchise on his back, and refused to giveup. In doing so, Jaromir Jagr has eclipsed every point mark set by previous New York Rangers forwards, including the goal record of 52 (previously held by Adam Graves) which he finally passed last night with his 53rd in a 4-3 overtime win over the Boston Bruins (that was a record for the longest runon sentence on this website!). Jagr now has 118 points, 53 goals and 65 assists (he got 64 and 65 last night) and is a +35 this season.
The Rangers reached the 100 point mark thanks to last night's win and have added to their lead over the Philadelphia Flyers in the Atlantic Division.
Last night's scores:
NY Rangers 4 Boston 3 F (OT)
St. Louis 2 Colorado 4 F Anaheim 4 Los Angeles 2 F
Carolina 2 Atlanta 5 F Detroit 4 Columbus 2 F New Jersey 3 Montreal 2 F
Washington 0 NY Islanders 5 F Toronto 5 Philadelphia 2 F Buffalo 6 Ottawa 2 F
Pittsburgh 0 Tampa Bay 1 F
Chicago 1 Nashville 2 F (SO) Dallas 3 Phoenix 2 F (SO)
Calgary 2 Vancouver 3 F (OT)
Game of the night:
NY Rangers at New Jersey 7:30 PM
Possible preview of a first round playoff matchup? Could be! Enjoy the games!
It's time to find out if Colorado GM Lacroix's gamble on an injured Jose Theodore will pay dividends. According to TSN.ca, Avs coach Joel Quennville may start Jose Theodore Sunday against the Minnesota Wild. Colorado is desperately hanging on in the 7th playoff spot with 90 points. San Jose is right on their heels with 89 points and Vancouver behind them with 87 points. Judging by Jose's tremendously thick and lusterous lid, Propecia undoubtedly works.....but can it work well enough to save Colorado's season?
Last night's scores:
Carolina 4 at Washington 3
Columbus 5 at Detroit 6 Pittsburgh 5 at Florida 1 Philadelphia 4 at Buffalo 2 Edmonton 4 at Chicago 3
Minnesota 1 at Calgary 2
Game of the night:
Calgary at Vancouver 10:00 PM
If Vancouver wants to make the playoffs, tonite would be a great evening to show it. However, tonite's contest will be no easy task as Calgary is eager to lock up the Northwest and secure a playoff spot themselves. Enjoy the games!
TSN.ca is reporting that Massachusetts developer Lawrence Gottesdiener is interested in buying the Pittsburgh Penguins and relocating the team to Hartford Connecticut.
Anyone who can land the Penguins, will get a diamond in the rough. With perhaps the best young players in the league in Sidney Crosby and Marc Andre Fleury, and the arrival of fist rounder Evgeni Malkin, the Penguins will be a very solid team for years to come.
After a 5-3 victory over Ottawa last night, the Montreal Canadiens have just won their 8th straight! Just 3 weeks ago this team was barely hanging on to the 8th and final spot, but now find themselves tied for 6th overall in the East with New Jersey. The emergence of goaltender Cristobal Huet has to be the biggest reason for this turnaround (even though it was Aebischier who kept the lotion out of the basket last night). This is the longest winning streak for the Canadiens since the 1992 season. For more on this and the Habs check out TSN.ca.
Vancouver is now 2 points out of the playoffs, thanks to a huge 5-0 win by the San Jose Sharks over the L.A. Kings. San Jose has moved into a tie for 7th place with the Edmonton Oilers. San Jose also has a game in hand on Vancouver and Edmonton.
The Rangers pushed their lead over the Flyers to 5 points with a 3-1 victory over the Isles last night. Weekes was outstanding in net last night for his second straight start. The Rangers came out a little sluggish in the first and surrendered the lead to a very energetic young Islander team. Miroslav Satan opened the scoring midway through the first. Weekes kept the pucks out, while his boys found their game. Jarkko Immonen (part of the Leetch trade last year, along with Maxim Kondratiev, who was dealt this year for Petr Sykora), playing his first game in the NHL, and for the Rangers, found the back of the net less than a minute into the game. Straka potted 2 more to help the Rangers maintain their first place position in the Atlantic.
Last night's scores:
Toronto 2 Boston 3 F (SO)
NY Islanders 1 NY Rangers 3 F Montreal 5 Ottawa 3 F
Atlanta 2 Tampa Bay 3 F (SO)
Edmonton 1 Minnesota 2 F (SO) Nashville 3 St. Louis 0 F Dallas 5 Anaheim 3 F San Jose 5 Los Angeles 0 F
Game of the night:
Philadelphia at Buffalo 8:00 PM
All eyes in New York will be on this one. Philly is 5 points behind the Atlantic Division leading Rangers and they need to make up ground. Tough test against Buffalo, who hit the skids a few weeks back, seems to have found their game again, and since clinching a playoff berth, can begin building momentum for the playoffs. Enjoy the games!
Actually they have lost ground. With San Jose's 2-1 win over Colorado last night, the Sharks have moved into a tie with the Canucks for the 8th and final spot for the playoffs in the West. Here's a look at the current standings in the West:
1. Detroit 112
2. Dallas 103
3. Calgary 95
4. Nashville 94
5. Anaheim 92
6. Colorado 90
7. Edmonton 88
8. San Jose 87
8. Vancouver 87
10. Los Angeles 85
Vancouver's biggest problem right now is that they have 5 games remaining. San Jose has 7. Los Angeles also has 5 games left. This team is in big trouble. However, for us (aside from Canucks fans) this is win win. Playoff hockey has clearly started already. There will be some very crucial matches to follow in the next two weeks.
Last night's scores:
Ottawa 4 Buffalo 5 F (OT) Atlanta 5 Florida 2 F Carolina 4 Washington 3 F (SO)
Pittsburgh 4 New Jersey 6 F
NY Islanders 2 Toronto 3 F
Nashville 3 Chicago 4 F San Jose 2 Colorado 1 F
Phoenix 2 Calgary 5 F
Game of the night:
Part of my pre-playoff lineup, here are a few that have some major consequences:
Atlanta at Tampa Bay 7:30 PM
Edmonton at Minnesota 8:00 PM
San Jose at Los Angeles 10:30 PM
April 5th Show
It's crunch time for some teams are we are under 10 games apiece for each team to make their bid for the final playoff spot or for the first Draft pick. We'll be breaking down the teams that are already in the playoffs, as well as the teams that are on the bubble as far as the playoffs go. Brett Carson from the Calgary Hitmen will talk about the Hitmen's playoff success so far and what we can expect the rest of the way from them. We'll also have the latest in news and injuries from the hockey world. Plus, as always-- we'll have Jimmy Chunkybutter go through the paces for the Playoffs in Fantasy Hockey.
Yes my friends! That day has finally arrived, and on the heels of more naysayers and cynics, the likes of which God has never seen (for you Fletcher)! After defeating the Philadelphia Flyers in a 3-2 shootout win, the Atlantic Division leading New York Rangers, clinched their first playoff berth since the 1996-1997 season! Picked to finish dead last, even behind the Capitals, by just about everyone, including John Buccigross (who couldn't stop recommending the trading of Jaromir Jagr) of ESPN, and our own Larry Brooks (who lamented on and on in the off season about what a horrible signing Marek Malik was....good call Larry, you're right he sucked), the Rangers have give everyone the Lou Brown special! Enjoy....it will surely go down smooth.
Kevin Weekes got his chance to shine last night. Although showered with boos in the second period (ummm, jackasses, this guy is as much a part of the revitilization of this franchise as everyone else....will you idiots at the Garden wake up?!?) he held on, making a few huge saves (especially the diving save to stop Jeff Carter) and kept the Rangers in it. He stoned Forsberg, and Handzus in the shootout to close the door on the Flyers, and open the playoff door for the Rangers. This guy is great, and I'm glad he's here.
Regardless of what happens for the rest of the season, I can fold my arms and at the very least enjoy 4 post season contest with my boys in blue. I'm a very happy guy this morning. Thank you Rangers. Thank you for a terrific season!
Last night's scores:
Philadelphia 2 NY Rangers 3 F (SO)
Boston 3 Montreal 5 F
St. Louis 4 Minnesota 5 F (SO)
Los Angeles 2 Anaheim 6 F
Game of the night:
San Jose at Colorado 9:00 PM
Playoffs, playoffs, playoffs. Can San Jose make it in? Should be another great matchup! Enjoy the games!
Buffalo clinched their first playoff birth since 2001 with a 3-2 shootout win over the Leafs last night, but the victory may have been a costly one.
Johan Hecht left the game during the third period after a collision with Darcy Tucker. Lindy Ruff is calling for a suspension of Tucker because he feels the hit was blatant knee on knee contact, and could lose Hecht for the playoffs. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
The playoff race in the East is beginning to solidify itself. New Jersey, Tampa, and Montreal are holding tight to their 6th, 7th and 8th spots. Atlanta, Florida and Toronto are 7 points out, with 8 games to go. It's not looking good Leafs fans.
The West is a completely different story! With a win over Vancouver last night, L.A. pulled into a tie with San Jose for 9th place overal. Both teams are just two points behind 8th place Vancouver, 3 behind Edmonton, and 5 behind Anaheim and Colorado. Vancouver and Edmonton are on very shaking ground. 6 teams are fighting for 4 spots. That is outstanding! Musical chairs anyone? Keep an eye on this race, it's going to go down to the final games.
Last night's scores:
Washington 5 Carolina 6 F (OT)
Atlanta 4 Ottawa 6 F
Florida 1 Tampa Bay 4 F Buffalo 3 Toronto 2 F (SO) Columbus 3 Nashville 1 F San Jose 3 Dallas 2 F (OT)
Phoenix 1 Edmonton 7 F Detroit 2 Calgary 1 F (SO)
Chicago 3 Colorado 4 F
Vancouver 0 Los Angeles 1 F
Game of the night:
Philadelphia at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Los Angeles at Anaheim 10:30 PM
HUGE! Both games have major playoff implications. And how sweet is this? Bosh has selected an early and a late game so you can watch them both! Who loves you? That's right....Bosh loves you. Enjoy the games!
It is a sad day in the land of Bosh......after two successful regular fantasy seasons, my post seasons have torn a page from the Ottawa Senators playoff handbook. Two first round exits. My first place team Boshimus Maximus actually tied, but the win goes to the individual with most goals, who turned out to be my counterpart Overload. My hats off to you sir! Thus, my fantasy team will pull out their fantasy golf clubs a little earlier than expected. However with the real playoffs just around the corner, we will all have our hands full! Get ready to stop shaving!
Last night's scores:
Philadelphia 4 NY Islanders 1 F New Jersey 3 Pittsburgh 2 F (OT) Detroit 3 Minnesota 2 F
Vancouver 2 Anaheim 6 F
Game of the night:
Florida at Tampa Bay 7:30 PM
Let's stay in the sunshine state. Can Florida leapfrog past Tampa? This is gonna be good! Enjoy the games!
Ottawa Senators GM John Muckler, came out swinging yesterday, almost immediately after reports were stating that Hasek was finished for the year. He dismissed the reports as "totally untrue". You can read more about this at TSN.ca.
What's going on with the Sabres? One win in their last nine games, including a 7-0 blowout at the hands of the Leafs last night. These guys are not entering the playoffs on the good foot.
Florida won the first of a must win home and home against the Bolts last night and inched closer to the playoffs. Six points separate the two teams.
The Capitals shutout the Sens 1-0 last night. Goalie Brent Johnson made 46 saves enroute to his 16th career shutout and Alexander the GR8 (oh i feel sooo dirty) had an assist on the lone goal by Dainius Zubrus.
Last night's scores:
New Jersey 4 Philadelphia 1 F
Carolina 2 Atlanta 5 F
Chicago 2 Columbus 5 F
Boston 0 Montreal 2 F
Buffalo 0 Toronto 7 F
Tampa Bay 2 Florida 4 F Washington 1 Ottawa 0 F
St. Louis 1 Nashville 2 F Calgary 4 Edmonton 1 F
Dallas 0 Los Angeles 1 F Phoenix 4 San Jose 3 F (OT)
Game of the night:
Vancouver at Anaheim 4:00 PM
This one is for position. Anaheim has 88 points and Vancouver 87. With only 7 game remaining, the Canucks have not secured their playoff spot, and doing so tonite against a very hot Anaheim team will be a difficult task. Enjoy the games!
Well this one is for my bro Playoff Moustache! TSN.ca is reporting that the Dominator has been dominated by his gimpy groin. Ottawa Senators officials say this in untrue, but as I commented earlier this morning, Rotowire.com was reporting that Hasek only skated in warmups, not in equipment yesterday. Big news out of Ottawa. Looks like Sens fans are on one knee right now, doing there best Princess Leia impressions...."Help me Ray Emery...you're my only hope."
Alexander Ovechkin has been dubbed "Alexander the GR" thanks to a CCM sweepstakes and thousands of fans, who submitted over 4,000 nicknames (and thats the best they came up with?). Yes I'm a little biased, as I submitted one as well (which was far superior) as did many of my friends over at the Face Off Hockey Show Message Boards did, but Ovechkin and CCM apparently thought differently. Regardless, this young man has had an explosive rookie season. In 71 games this season, Ovechkin has 48 goals, 47 assists (95 points), a +4 rating and 48 minutes in penalties. He makes a nice living on the powerplay with 21 PPG, and 24 PPA. Ovechkin will clearly win the Calder Trophy, and will doubt be a runner up for the Hart and Maurice Richard trophies. Ovechkin sits 3rd in the league in scoring behind only Joe Thornton and Jaromir Jagr. Two more goals and Ovechkin will be having tea with Ms. MacGill. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
Last night's scores:
Florida 2 Carolina 3 F Chicago 3 Detroit 2 F (OT) Pittsburgh 4 NY Islanders 0 F Columbus 4 St. Louis 2 F
Colorado 3 Calgary 6 F Minnesota 2 Vancouver 1 F (SO)
Dallas 4 Anaheim 5 F (SO)
Game of the night:
Tampa Bay at Florida 7:30 PM
Tampa blew it against the Canes last night but this is their chance to redeem themselves. Two games against the Bolts. Two men enter. One man leave. Two men enter. One man leave. Two men enter. One man leave. Two men enter. One man leave. Two men enter. One man leave. Two men enter. One man leave. Two men enter. One man leave. Two men enter. One man leave. Enjoy the games!
Reports out from the NY Post say that they expect Jagr to shrug off whatever injury he may have sustained during the Devils game 1 route of the Rangers. However, 
I guess the writing was on the wall....especially with the vote of confidence by GM Ferguson back in January. Pat Quinn was fired as coach of the Maple Leafs this morning. Quinn spent 7 years behind the bench for the Leafs and was never able to get them to the Stanley Cup finals. For more on this story visit 
For my good buddy the Playoff Moustache.....
Not since Mark Messier has a player come to the Rangers and made himself the face of the team, carried the franchise on his back, and refused to giveup. In doing so, Jaromir Jagr has eclipsed every point mark set by previous New York Rangers forwards, including the goal record of 52 (previously held by Adam Graves) which he finally passed last night with his 53rd in a 4-3 overtime win over the Boston Bruins (that was a record for the longest runon sentence on this website!). Jagr now has 118 points, 53 goals and 65 assists (he got 64 and 65 last night) and is a +35 this season. 
