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 The Anaheim Ducks shutdown line did it's job for the second straight game against the Senators and then some last night.
Led by Samuel Pahlsson, the Ducks checking line prevented the Senators top line of Dany Heatley, Daniel Alfredsson and Jason Spezza from producing much of anything (only 6 shots in the match) for yet another game. Pahlsson grabbed the puck from Dany Heatley late in the third and put a shot past Sens keeper Ray Emery. The goal stood up as the game winner and gave the Anaheim Ducks the 1-0 win and now carry a 2-0 series lead to Ottawa.
Ducks goaltender J.S. Giguere only had to make 16 saves to record the shutout victory. The lack of chances is not so much a reflection of Ottawa's offence but rather a blaring indication of just how good the Ducks are defensively. They are making the Senators look very ordinary right now.
 Quick Shave:
The Pittsburgh Penguins will announce sometime today the naming of their franchise's newest captain, Sidney Crosby. This is hardly a surprise. Crosby's maturation as both a player and a person over the past two seasons has been difficult to miss, and this kid will undoubtedly lead the Penguins to the promised land.... and a playoff beard. Congrats Cros-beard!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Game 1 certainly delivered! That is a massive understatement.
I'm not sure if the Ottawa Senators have ever faced such relentless pressure as they did last night. While the Sens looked great on the powerplay, and led 2-1 going into the third period on goals by Fisher, and Redden, I really thought the Anaheim Ducks carried the play. Had it not been for their lack of discipline early in the game I wonder if the Ducks would have trailed at all during Game 1. The Ducks gave up 6 powerplay opportunities to the Sens including a 5-3 advantage... and Ottawa cashed in on two of them.
The Anaheim Ducks really pressed the attack throughout the game, especially late. Senators goaltender faced 33 shots in the match, and was finally beaten for the tying goal by Ryan Getzlaf early in the third, and Travis Moen smacked home the game winner off a Rob Niedermayer pass from behind the net with less than three to play. The Ducks completed the win 3-2 to take Game 1 in the series.
The Ducks recieved a solid effort from their fourth line unit led by Brad May, who actually had several scoring chances (and a lovely playoff beard). The Senators looked somewhat ineffective at even-strength, and the Heatley, Alfredsson, Spezza line was kept quiet for the most part (Spezza and Alfredsson assisted on Redden's powerplay score). Anaheim Ducks forward Drew Miller played in his second ever playoff game, and first ever Stanley Cup Final game. His brother Ryan Miller, Buffalo Sabres goaltender was in attendance to lend support. Miller actually helped setup the first Ducks goal by McDonald.
Quick Shave:
The Montreal Canadiens re-signed defenceman Andrei Markov to a four year contract worth $23 million. Markov was one of the Habs big two defencemen headed to unrestricted free agency this summer, the other being Sheldon Souray. It will be interesting to see if the Habs manage to retain Souray as well, or if they are forced to let him test free agency. The Phoenix Coyotes have hired Don Maloney as their new General Manager. Maloney was the assistant GM of the New York Rangers, and his move could perhaps leave the door open for Mark Messier who indicated his interest in taking over the helm in New York after Sather retires...... time will tell.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 I was at a party yesterday, and a friend of mine threw me a question…. “Hey Boshy, who do you like in the finals?”
I began to speak, but unfortunately no words found their way out. How the heck can you pick between these two teams, who appear evenly matched on both sides of the puck, and leave little in the way of a frame of reference, since neither team faced each other this regular season, and haven’t met in over a year and a half?
The Anaheim Ducks have been on everyone’s radar since the big trade on Draft day last summer that saw the Edmonton Oilers send their big defenceman Chris Pronger to the Ducks for Lupul and a handful of prospects and picks. Instantaneously, the Ducks were anointed as the team to beat, and they have really not disappointed. Their goaltending is solid, their defence is probably their greatest asset, and they boast several lines that can score.
The Ottawa Senators were definitely not on the favorite’s list at the beginning of the season, after losing their big defenceman Zdeno Chara to free agency, they came out of the gate uninspired, but late fall, went on a tear that catapulted them up through the standings, and right through their first three opponents in the playoffs. They are lead by the strongest first line in the post season, made up of Heatley, Alfredsson, and Spezza, a stingy defence that allows little, and actively produces offence, and a once backup goaltender who has risen to the challenge to backstop his team to a 12-3 playoff record.
 So who does the Bosher like? I like the Senators. I like the Ducks. I think both teams matchup well in almost every category.
Goaltending, I have to go with Ray Emery. The kid has been outstanding. Granted J.S. Giguere is experienced and has a Conn Smythe (that still belongs to Broduer), but Emery has provided confidence that the Senators have never had in the playoffs before. The kid has three playoff shutouts so far as well.
Defence. This is Anaheim. Any team that has Scott Niedermayer, and Chris Pronger on the blueline, wins the category any day of the week, and twice on Sunday. Don’t overlook Ottawa’s defence. They have stifled the high flying Buffalo Sabres, stopped young Sidney Crosby and crew, and even quieted a New Jersey Devils offence that bloomed in the playoffs.
Offence. Gotta give the edge to Ottawa on this one. Their big guns, are producing at super star levels…. Something they haven’t done in the past. Anaheim has the firepower to match, but thus far in the post season, they haven’t. If the Ducks Andy MacDonald can find his game look out.
 Playoff Beard. This is all Anaheim. The Niedermayer family wins this category for the whole city. I swear they have Yeti in them.
Playoff beard prediction: Ottawa Senators in 7 games.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Anaheim 8:00 PM
Regulation will be on Versus, but if the game goes to overtime it will shift to NBC. Second overtime will shift back to Versus, and any overtime thereafter will be available as an audio broadcast on NHL.com.
Just kidding! ENJOY THE FINALS!!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Even though it was apparent he retired this year, defenceman Brian Leetch made it official and ended an amazing 18 year career.
Brian Leetch spent most of his career with the New York Rangers and helped them to a Stanley Cup Championship in 1994 and became the first American player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy for MVP during the playoffs.
Leetch recorded 1,028 points (247 goals, 781 assists) in 1,205 games played. He will surely be added to the Hall of Fame when the time comes, and see his number 2 jersey hanging from the rafters in Madison Square Garden.
Congratulations on an amazing career Leetchy.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 So we are down to two after the Anaheim Ducks defeated the Detroit Red Wings 4-3 (Wings made it very interesting in the final period) to take the Western Conference Championship in 6 games and move on to face the Ottawa Senators in the Stanley Cup Finals.
The Ducks were predicted to be in the finals by just about everyone (including myself.... however I said they would be facing the Rangers), so really it's no surprise to see them there. The Senators started off the season poorly, and finished strongly.... they started playing much better late fall.... and in the playoffs have been just a shot glass shy of perfect.
The Stanley Cup Finals don't begin until Monday, May 28th, at 8:00 PM, and I plan on taking all that time to drink.... I mean think.... about what team will be our next Stanley Cup Champion. Frankly, I haven't got a clue (other than the brand of beer I will be consuming) as to who will win. What I do know is that this matchup looks outstanding.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
I feel bad for Andreas Lilja today. The Detroit Red Wing defenceman scored the lone goal for his team that nearly stood up as the game winner (until some late power play heroics by Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer), and coughed up the puck in front of Dominik Hasek leading to Teemu Selanne's.... overtime heroics.
To recap quickly, Scott Niedermayer tied the game with less than a minute to play on a powerplay opportunity where the Ducks had pulled Jean Sebastien Giguere (who was outstanding in net for his team last night, shutting down a very strong effort by Detroit) in favor of another skater. The Anaheim Ducks and Detroit Red Wings headed to overtime tied 1-1, and midway throught the extra period, Lilja made his error. Dogged by Teemu Selanne he came out from behind the net, and was forechecked by Andy MacDonald. The puck came loose, and was collected by Selanne, and backhanded high past Hasek. The play was over in seconds, but watching it seemed to last forever. I think there was actually a collective gasp at the Joe last night. Unreal, but fantastic game.
The Red Wings were dominant, unfortunately for them, so was Giguere, who stopped 36 of the 37 shots he faced. The Ducks took the 2-1 victory, and can close the series out in Game 6 back in Anaheim on Tuesday night.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Midway through the first overtime period, Ottawa Senators Captain Daniel Alfredsson (I apologize for the illustration, I've been trying to avoid using it all season since I think it makes Alfie look like a cross between a Hobbit, and a Dr. Seuss character.... nevertheless, the man deserves to be recognized, crappy drawing or not) put a wrist shot past Ryan Miller and closed the door on the Buffalo Sabres with a 3-2 win. The Senators won the series 4-1 and are now headed to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Credit is owed to this club who have shut down every opponent they have faced this season, including the President Trophy Winning Sabres. Daniel Alfredsson has been impressive scoring 4 game winning goals and recording 17 points (10 goals, 7 assists) so far this post season. Dany Heatley leads all players in scoring with 21 points (6 goals, 15 assists) and is trailed by linemate Jason Spezza with 20 points (7 goals, 13 assists) (I know this is off topic, but Mike Milbury actually traded the pick that would become Jason Spezza, and defenceman Zdeno Chara (Bill Muckalt was tossed in for seasoning) to Ottawa for Alexei Yashin..... he should be shot in front of the Colliseum for that move alone.... Islanders fans, Spezza would have been the perfect player for you to build a team around... i really digress). Goaltender Ray Emery has been amazing. 12 wins, and 3 by shutout.... this kid has really answered the bell. Ottawa has lost only one time in each of three playoff rounds and are now within four victories of bringing the Stanley Cup back to Canada.
Quick Shave:
I had a funny thought yesterday while watching the game. The Senators backup goaltender is Martin Gerber, who won a Stanley Cup with the Carolina Hurricanes last season. He was also relegated to backup duty in favor of Cam Ward last playoffs. He is in a position to win his second Stanley Cup consecutively with a different team. The last player to achieve that was Cory Stillman I believe, with the Tampa Bay Lightning, and the aforementioned Hurricanes.
The NHL has got to do something about their broadcast partnership. What happened yesterday is almost unforgiveable. NBC carried the regulation broadcast, but when the game went to overtime, the broadcast shifted to Versus in favor of a horse race, unless you live in the Buffalo area. That is pathetic. Why even put the game on NBC in the first place? Versus has done a terrific job with the NHL, and I would have no issue with them extending their commitment, on one condition. Distribution. Versus must become a part of every basic cable package, otherwise forget it. That is a deal breaker. I can't tell you how many faithful Ranger fans I know who missed precious playoff games, because their cable provider doesn't carry Versus. The Versus network, must correct this, or the NHL must move on. Either way, what happened yesterday is a disaster. It cheapens the product, and destroys what little credibility the NHL has left. Address this issue now.
Game of the Night:
Anaheim at Detroit 3:00 PM
All tied up as we head back to Detroit for a pivotal (love that term too!) Game 5. We get the return of Chris Pronger who will surely have a mean on for this one (and the Canadian media apparently). Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 I've not penned an entry on my boys in a spell, but after last night's game..... I find it difficult to refrain from doing so. The Dragons have had a good season, but last night played like the champion calibre squad of campaign's past. I'm reminded of the words of Conan the Barbarian on the eve of battle:
"Crom, I have never prayed to you before. I have no tongue for it. No one, not even you will remember, if we were good men, or bad. Why we fought, or how we died. No, all that matters is, that two stood against many. That's what's important. Valour pleases you Crom, so grant me one request, grant me revenge! And if you do not listen, then the hell with you!"
Why is this quote so appropriate? Last night the Dragons found themselves with a short bench..... a very short bench. An empty bench.
Five stood against many and while undermanned, and outshot, the boys made it count, and never fell behind. Their efforts produced an incredible 4-2 victory. Hat's off to Mike, Mark, Mike, Bill, and Jose. Solid, solid work last night. Congrats Dragons.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Buffalo 2:00 PM
Buffalo will try to pull of the impossible (the improbable is more appropriate) this afternoon and continue to stave off elimination to defeat the Senators.... who have a choke-hold on the series 3-1. If the Sabres can pull off another win, pressure will begin to shift to Ottawa. The Senators are one win shy of making it to the Stanley Cup Finals.... expect both teams to leave everything on the ice (I love that phrase too). Enjoy the games my fuzzy friends!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Before I get into the game.... how about Teemu Selanne's playoff beard? That is how you groom some facial hair Alfredsson! Well done Teemu, well done indeed sir.
The Anaheim Ducks responded big time last night, after the 5-0 can of butt kick the Red Wings opened up on them in game 3. The Ducks battled without their best defenceman (perhaps second best? who would you rather have... Pronger or Niedermayer?.... I'm going Niedermayer... I digress) to defeat the Red Wings 5-3 and tie the series 2-2 as it heads back to Detroit for game 5.
Teemu Selanne and his magnificent playoff beard potted a goal and two assists, Corey Perry opened the scoring, and Ryan Getzlaf scored the game winner. The Red Wings were unable to capitalize on two, two man advantage powerplays and Dominik Hasek appeared ordinary in net allowing 4 goals on 22 shots.
Game 5 returns to Detroit on Sunday in a series where both teams have split. No home ice advantage so far in this one. The next win will be very important, but I wouldn't be surprised to see both of the teams go the distance.
Game of the Night:
No games tonight folks, it is a day of rest for the NHL. Saturday however, the battle will be back on in Buffalo.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The Sabres stay alive. Finally a ray of hope... and not the Ray that has been stellar in net for the Ottawa Senators all series (and all post season for that matter).
The Buffalo Sabres staved off elimination and forced a Game 5 by defeating (narrowly) the Ottawa Senators 3-2. Derek Roy, Maxim Afinogenov, and Chris Drury scored for the Sabres and Ryan Miller made 31 saves to prevent the sweep by the Senators. Chris Drury's goal was the 15th game winner of his playoff career, and ties the record for first all time (I forget the gentleman who holds it because I am paraphrasing from the broadcast, so I apologize..... it may have been Jean Béliveau, but don't quote me)..... is he Captain Clutch or what?
So do the Sabres have the stones to mount an improbable comeback? How will the Senators respond in Game 5? If the Sabres can win game 5, pressure will certainly shift to the Senators, and I think we will see them panic. However, the Senators have 3 opportunities to close out this series, and the pressure is clearly on the Sabres right now. No mistakes, and once again, adversity is in their faces.
Quick Shave:
Anaheim Ducks defenceman Chris Pronger was suspended for one game by the NHL for his hit to the head on Detroit Red Wings forward Tomas Holstrom in Game 3. Pronger will have to sit out Game 4, and watch his Ducks try to tie up the series. Pronger wasn't very effective in stopping a highly productive Red Wings attack in Game 3 regardless, perhaps that is why he took out Holmstrom before he scored any more goals.... one more and he would have joined the HTC.
Game of the Night:
Detroit at Anaheim 9:00 PM
Oh yeah!!! Game 4 kiddies! Beard on!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Sorry for the long absence folks, but the Bosher has been on the road, and while I've been able to stay informed and watch some unreal hockey over the past few days, I have been unable to deliver my sermon unto you.
Let's talk about last night. The Red Wings hammered the Anaheim Ducks 5-0 in Game 3 to take a 2-1 series lead. Dominik Hasek was superb making 29 saves and recording his 14th career playoff shutout. The big hero of the evening for the Red Wings was heart and soul forward Tomas Holmstrom who scored two goals and set up Valtteri Filppula for the Red Wings 5th goal. Todd Bertuzzi and Johan Franzen also scored for Wings, in what can only be described as a rout.
The big news today following last night's game is the fate of Anaheim Duck's defenceman Chris Pronger. Pronger and forward Rob Niedermayer combined for a hit on Tomas Holmstrom into the boards that forced him from the game briefly to recieve stitches in his forehead. Niedermayer got a 5 minute boarding penalty and a game misconduct, but video reviews of the play show Pronger elbowing Holmstrom to the head. There will be a disciplinary hearing today to determine whether or not Chris Pronger will face a suspension.
Game of the Night:
Buffalo at Ottawa 7:00 PM
What the heck happened to the Buffalo Sabres? The Ottawa Senators that's what. Will the President's Trophy winning Sabres go down in a sweep? Or will they do some staving and force the series back to Buffalo for a Game 5. They are behind the 8-ball right now (another great phrase) and Ottawa is in a choice position to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals by closing it out tonight. Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Adversity. The one thing that can make or break a champion. Resilience in the face of said adversity will often determine who will become that champion.
The Ottawa Senators are proving to be the better at facing and overcoming that adversity. Battling back from a 2-0 defecit, and also rebounding from another superb game tying goal with second to go in the game, the Senators are more determined to go all the way than I have ever seen them.
Losing 2-0, the Senators responded with three unanswered goals to lead 3-2, until Sabres forward tied it with late game heroics that have become standard for Buffalo with less than 6 seconds to play and forced overtime. Senator Joe Corvo scored early in the second overtime to lift his team to a 4-3 victory and a 2-0 series lead.
The Sabres who have showed tremedous resolve in the playoffs this year have their backs against the wall and must rebound hard on the road.... a task that will not be easy. However if any team can pull it off, I believe it is this Buffalo Sabres team.
For the record.... Daniel Briere's playoff beard is worse than that thing that Daniel Alfredsson is trying to grow on his face.... which I am unable to label as a beard.
Game of the Night:
Anaheim at Detroit 7:30 PM
Anaheim will try to find a way to solve Dominik Hasek tonight. Will they bring their 'A' game, play 60 minutes and give it 110%, or will Hasek be equal to the task? Tune in to find out!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
I still remember my boys from Detroit's response in August when the Red Wings signed Dominik Hasek. I think it went something like this:
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Well after last night's 31 save performance, I think they are all saying...
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!
Dominik Hasek is back and playing amazing hockey. Hasek saved all but one of the shots he faced last night including a few mind boggling stops late in the game (Dustin Penner is still in shock) to give the Red Wings the 2-1 win, and a 1-0 series lead over the Anaheim Ducks.
Anaheim outshot the Wings 32-19, but it didn't matter. I had a feeling that this series might come down to goaltending and last night's game was certainly a great indicator of that. These teams are very evenly matched so much so, that it is a push on both sides of the puck. Except in net. I have to give it to the Red Wings. J.S. Giguere is good, but Hasek has been here before, and he is doing it again.
Henrik Zetterberg scored early for the Wings on an off angle shot that was deflected past Giguere (I believe off of Beauchemin's skate) and took the 1-0 lead. Chris Kunitz tied the game for the Ducks in the third on a beautiful play setup by Scott Neidermayer and Ryan Getzlaf. Then late in the game on a powerplay, Nicklas Lidstrom used Tomas Holstrom's head to bank a shot past J.S. Giguere. How great has Holstrom been in front of the net? This poor guys lower back and thighs must look like burger by now.... but he is protected by a gorgeous playoff beard! The Beard is strong with this one.
The Red Wings gave up more shots than they normally do (which is probably because of the loss of Schneider) but Hasek stood tall. The Ducks may have to throw 60 shots on net in game 2 if they want to win.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Buffalo 8:00 PM
Game 2! Buffalo will look to rebound from what was simply an outclassing by Ottawa in Game 1. This team has rebounded well from adversity in the playoffs thus far, so look for a strong effort tonight as they try to avoid going to Ottawa down 2-0. Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The Ottawa Senators bounced out to a quick 2-0 lead early in the first on a short handed score by Mike Fisher, then minutes later on a powerplay goal by Daniel Alfreddson. The Sabres appeared to get back into the game with a goal by Maxim Afinogenov and a tying goal by Toni Lydman midway through the second.
I the third period it was all Ottawa. Oleg Saprykin scored the game winner 7 minutes in to the last period, Jason Spezza added some insurance with Ottawa's second powerplay goal of the game, and Dean McAmmond sealed the win with the late empty netter.
The Sabres looked like they had a lot of trouble penetrating the Ottawa defense which seemed to stand them up on the blue line. The usually strong on the boards Sabres also looked to lose alot of those battles to the Senators. Turnovers. The Sabres can't cough the puck up to this team. The Senators are unlike the Rangers and Islanders, they play error free hockey (or pretty close to it) and are not going to give you many chances, but like the Sabres, if you make a mistake they will make you pay for it. Game 2 will be a gem.
Game of the Night:
Anaheim at Detroit 7:30 PM
I don't need to discuss this. Friday night hockey. Come on, you'll be there. Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
This is the 600th post on playoff beard.com! This site continues to grow like whiskers from Lanny McDonald's upper lip.
Well we are down to the final four.... and what a cadre of teams we have before us. As my colleague and heterosexual life mate Stache posted recently, this is the first time in a few years that we don't have a surprise team making a push. The final four are and were the best during the regular season. The Ottawa Senators defeat of the New Jersey Devils could be called an upset.... but not really.... although they had a better record, the Devils were never in that series.
So now it comes down to my prognostications (which have been far from stellar this post season, so if don't pick your team, please dont' be concerned..... if I do pick your team.... well, worry a little) and try and shed some light on who will be our pair of Stanley Cup Finalists.
 East Conference Finals
Buffalo Sabres vs. Ottawa Senators
This series is going to be great. The Ottawa Senators have man-handled the Buffalo Sabres all year long.... but that ends now. It's hard for me to pick against this club after all they've accomplished, but the Senators need to experience agony one last time before they achieve glory. The Buffalo Sabres are now. With their top two centers facing unrestricted waters, this team has a very small window.... and they payed their dues last year. I can't pick against Chris Drury anymore. The guy has superpowers, and even if the Sabres are down (which they won't be) he will magicly fart the puck into the net. Such is the power of Drury. The Sabres will take this series but I don't expect it to be easy. This one will go the distance.
Bosh's Prediction: Buffalo Sabres in 7 games.
 Western Conference Finals
Detroit Red Wings vs. Anaheim Ducks
I've been battling with this one for a few days now. Both teams are solid.... incredible actually, and the best that the Western Conference have to offer. I don't think this is going to be a quick one either. In fact both series should go the distance. I'm going with the Detroit Red Wings. Yes their defense is depleted with the loss of Schneider, but I think the combination of Datsyuk and Zetterberg will be too much for the Anaheim Ducks..... even with Niedermayer and Pronger..... although those pairs may cancel each other out and leave the scoring to second and third lines (Bertuzzi rising perhaps?). When you scrape away all of the matchups you are left with one. Goaltending. Hasek is back, and this is what the Red Wings were banking on back in August when they signed him. J.S. Giguere is very good.... but he will learn the true nature of the force.
Bosh's Prediction: Detroit Red Wings in 7 games.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Buffalo 7:00 PM
It's on! Game 1, Eastern Conference Finals! Get your drink on, get your beard on! Enjoy!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The playoff hero for the New York Islanders get's his due.
The New York Islanders announced the re-signing of goaltender Wade Dubielewicz to a one year contract. It's hard to argue that without his amazing play in the final games of the Islanders season they would have been playing golf instead of joining the post season. This move most likely spells the end of backup goaltender Mike Dunham on Long Island.
Quick Shave:
Good news for the Toronto Maple Leafs fans as Mats Sundin will not require surgery on his hip. Sundin will also be happy because rumors out of the Canadian media that his injured labrum may be similiar to the career ending ailment that felled Alexander Mogilny, should now be squashed. The New Jersey Devils may have seen the last of Scott Gomez as the young forward plans to test the free agent market when he becomes unrestricted in July. Gomez will be one of the more highly sought after centers this summer, along with Buffalo Sabres' pivots Chris Drury, and Daniele Briere.
Playoff Beard Watch:
Here you go Duges!
With four teams left, there are several beards that are standing out thus far.
The Ottawa Senators Chris Phillips, and Tom Preissing are the Chuck Norris front runners for Canada's last remaining team. The Senators playoff beard average however dips slightly because of the fuzz that Daniel Alfreddson is still trying to produce on his upper lip. Dany Heatley, and Jason Spezza, while gifted offensively, are still have trouble in the chin mane production department.
The Buffalo Sabres have a few beauties, but the standout face mullet on this team has to be defenseman Brian Campbell. The Snow Job award will certainly be his this season (won and graciously accepted by the Edmonton Oilers Raffi Torres last season).
Anaheim Ducks. Scott Niedermayer. Yeah you could throw a bone to his brother Rob as he is also blessed with those same amazing Yeti genes, but Scott has transformed playoff beard growth into an art form. It will be on display in the Hall of Fame in Toronto one day, next to the hedge clippers necessary to trim that beast.
The Detroit Red Wings. This one just breaks my heart. Matthieu Schneider had a playoff beard during the second period of game 1 against the Flames that probably would have taken the cake. A broken wrist has knocked him out of the playoffs. However, if the man stays the course, and the Red Wings do indeed go the distance..... we may have a Chuck Norris Trophy surprise. Forward Tomas Holstrom actually got a phone call from Han Solo during the last series against the Sharks.... details about the conversation are fuzzy at this time, but sources say Solo stated "Chewie! Get us out of here!"
More to come tomorrow kids! Predictions, curses, beards! Does life get better? Oh it certainly does not! Shave not my friends! Especially you Alisson (playoff pits are all the rage afterall)!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The Red Wings sealed the deal on the San Jose Sharks last night with a 2-0 victory, and clinched the series 4-2.
Red Wings forward Mikael Samuelsson scored two in the first period, and goaltender Dominik Hasek made 28 saves to complete the shutout victory, the 13th of his playoff career. The Red Wings depleted defensive corps were anchored by Nicklas Lidstrom and Chris Chelios who played almost the entire game recording 29 and 26 minutes respectively.
So the Red Wings have shrugged off to previous playoff dissappointments and put together a beautiful run that has exposed their grit, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity. Now they move on to the Western Conference Finals for the first time in 5 years to face off against the Anaheim Ducks, the second best team in the West (in points).
The San Jose Sharks dropped three in a row to the Red Wings and will find it difficult to pull anything positive from this playoffs, especially after recording a Conference tying 51 wins during the regular season. Joe Thornton was dominant in the Sharks first 9 playoff games recording 11 points, but was shutdown over the last two. Is this as far as the big guy can carry his team? Perhaps Boston recognized this last year? In any case, the Sharks must learn the agony of losing in the playoffs, and pay their dues before moving on..... just like Ottawa, Buffalo, Anaheim, and even Detroit. Their time will come..... just not now.
The playoffs really haven't thrown us to many surprises, but for that matter, the four remaining teams were four that were at the top of the standings for most of the year.... no Cinderellas this year Edmonton. The matchups are going to be outstanding. The Ottawa Senators and Buffalo Sabres in the Eastern Conference should live up to it's billing, and the Ducks vs. the Wings in the West..... well I have no complaints whatsoever.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 What a great game. What a great series.
The Buffalo Sabres are truly a gifted group of players. Stacked from top to bottom, and cemented in net. This team has destiny written all over it.
The New York Rangers tried desperately to stave (ahhh our favorite term) off elimination and force a game 7 but it just wasn't to be. Caught in a shootout with Buffalo that saw the Sabre score 4 goals in less than 10 minutes, the Rangers were unable to keep pace and eventually fell 5-4. The Sabres got a big game from Jochen Hecht who scored two including the game winner, Chris Drury scored and added an assist, and Daniel Briere set up three, including the series clincher. The Sabres finished off the Rangers 4-2 in the series.
The New York Rangers took a big step forward again this year, considering they were out of the playoffs by a longshot in February. The team battled hard down the stretch to make the post season, and certainly made their presence felt. Henrik Lundqvist move towards becoming an elite level goaltender and his play late in the season help secure a Vezina Trophy nod. Jaromir Jagr is once again playing some of his best hockey, and has helped Michael Nylander to a pair of career seasons. Rookie Ryan Callahan should be a fun player to watch next year as he blossomed in the post season. Lots to look forward to in the years to come for the boys in blue.
For the Sabres, they once again meet up with the Ottawa Senators which should be an amazing Eastern Conference Final Matchup. The Senators were one of the few teams to give the Sabres difficulty during the regular season (the other being the Habs), and this 7 game series should be a beauty!
Game of the Night:
Detroit at San Jose 9:00 PM
The Red Wings can wrap it all up tonight in San Jose and look forward to taking on the Anaheim Ducks who are already waiting for their opponent. The Sharks will look to do some staving of their own tonight and force a game 7. Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Ottawa Senators look like they are on a mission this season. The Sens defeated the New Jersey Devils 3-2 yesterday, clinching the series 4-1 and advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals.
New Jersey took and early 1-0 lead on a goal by Scott Gomez, but came out flat in the second, turning the puck over, and allowing the Senators to gain the advantage. The Senators once again victimized Devils keeper Martin Brodeur with an odd angle shot by Tom Preissing (keep an eye on Preissing's playoff beard..... it starts at his eye-lids..... he must be part Yeti) which was deflected by Antoine Vermette (Brodeur like most keepers is sound when he see's the shot, but change it's direction and he is helpless). Jason Spezza and Daniel Alfredsson (I can't believe that one got by Brodeur) added two more goals to complete the win, and finishe off the Devils.
Senators goaltender Ray Emery made 27 saves and won his 8th game this post season. Emery has also only lost twice during this playoffs, and I think he and the Senators defense deserve a lot of credit. Rarely would he give up a bad rebound, but when he did, the puck was quickly collected by the blue liners and safely removed. The Senators defense also prevented the Devils offense from getting any cycle going, and made gaining the zone difficult if not impossible. While many would attribute their success to their offensive firepower, it's hard to discount the help they have had in the back end.
The Devils expulsion from the playoffs can't be blamed entirely on Martin Brodeur. Was he as sharp as usual. Absolutely not. But neither was the rest of this team. Lou Lamoirello actually replaced Sergei Brylin on the shutdown line with Erik Rasmussen because he too must have realized how ineffective they've been this post season, especially against the Heatley, Spezza, Alfreddson line. Madden, Pandolfo, and Brylin finished the playoffs a combined -20 in the 10 games they played. Granted they did face the opposing team's best forwards, but as a defensive unit, they look like they did little to support Brodeur. Part of the blame falls on this line. The bright spot for the Devils has to be the offense. For the first time I can remember, they have some legitimate firepower. Scott Gomez leads all players (tied with Heatley actually) in scoring during the playoffs with 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) and Brian Gionta and Zach Parise (how great is this kid?) lead the league in goals wit 8 and 7 respectively. Could the Devils be moving towards a more offensive style in the future? I guess we'll see.
Overall it was a decent series, and I think the Ottawa Senators have really gotten over the hump. As much as I would love to see the Rangers make it to the next round, not even I could complain if we saw a Sabres, Senators Eastern Conference Final. I love this game.
 Quick Shave:
Huge win for the Detroit Red Wings yesterday, but what a costly one. The Red Wings dominated the San Jose Sharks 4-1 yesterday to take a 3-2 series lead on a huge game from forwards Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg who each tallied a goal and two helpers. Mainstay on defence Matthieu Schneider was lost for the rest of the playoffs due to a broken wrist he suffered from a hit by Sharks forward Patrick Marleau. Adversity seems to be something the Red Wings are drinking down with a smile this year however, and even though Schneider will be missed (especially from a playoff beard standpoint..... oh did he have a Norris calibre beard going), I think this team will push forward successfully.
Game of the Night:
Buffalo at NY Rangers 2:00 PM
Do I even really need to say anything? I'm still recovering from that devestating loss Friday night, but hopefully the boys in blue are ready to go. This game should be epic. Sabres win and you're in. Rangers win and we get a game 7. Game 7 we all win! Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
I feel like some one just kicked me in the groin.
7 seconds away from taking a 3-2 lead in the series, Buffalo Sabres forward Chris Drury took the wind out of the sails of the New York Rangers.... and made everyone in the NYC area collectively throw up. Drury's goal tied the game 1-1 minutes after Martin Straka beat Ryan Miller for the lone Rangers score. Just minutes into the overtime period Sabres forward Maxim Afinogenov capitalized on a power play opportunity to life the Sabres to the 2-1 win, and a 3-2 series lead.
What a game. Especially by the goaltenders who were beyond brilliant. Henrik Lundqvist, and Ryan Miller strutted their stuff for 56 minutes, not allowing a single goal.
Prior to the game my heart dropped, and I saw a cloud rise over the Rangers, and I'll tell you why. Rangers forward Matt Cullen who was sporting one of this post season's finest playoff beards (so well grown was his face mane that I mentioned on the Face Off Hockey Show just two nights ago) decided to trim said beard into a goatee. Have we learned nothing over the past year folks? Did Michael Peca not teach us that shaving a playoff beard is bad? Well the Playoff Beard curse surfaced last night.... and now the Rangers find themselves in a hole they must climb out of..... otherwise they will be putting little white balls into holes next week.
Quick Shave:
The Anaheim Ducks are back in the Western Conference finals once more after defeating the Vancouver Canucks 2-1 and closing out the series in 5 games (predicted handsomely by the Bosher!). Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer scored the game winner and series clincher early in the second overtime period. The Ducks now wait to discover who their foe will be following the Detroit Red Wings and San Jose Sharks series.
Game of the Night:
San Jose at Detroit 2:00 PM
Ottawa at New Jersey 8:00 PM
New Jersey is on the brink and must battle back from a 3-1 series defecit against the Ottawa Senators. The Sens can wrap things up tonight. Detroit has battled back, and look to take a 3-2 series lead against the Sharks today. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Not with three they can't!
Who says overtime is boring? Well Mike Brophy from the Hockey News does, but after last night's game, I think he may be printing a retraction this week.
The Detroit Red Wings battled from a 2 goals down and found a way to solve (i love that.... solving is almost as cool as staving) San Jose Sharks goaltender Evgeni Nabokov. Wings forward Tomas Holstrom scored with seconds remaining in the second to bring Detroit within one goal. With under a minute to play in the game Valtteri Filppula sprung Robert Lang who put the tying goal past Nabokov and force overtime. Deep into overime, the Red Wings capitalized on a power play opportunity and the marvelous playoff beard of defenceman Matthieu Schneider. Schneider grabbed a bad clear and let fly the game winner in OT. The Red Wings defeated the San Jose Sharks 3-2 and tied the series 2-2.
The Red Wings played with some desperation and were solid throughout, and most importantly never quit. I loved the way, and the way they continue to battle, an attitude that has been missing in previous post seasons. Props to Sharks forward Bill Guerin who is sporting a terrific playoff beard and took a slapshot off the chin from point blank late in the game. That is a tough man.... and you know that playoff beard surely protected his face from serious injury.
Quick Shave:
The Ottawa Senators are one win from reaching the Eastern Conference Finals after last night's 3-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils. The Sens won their second straight game at home thanks to goals from Dany Heatley, Daniel Alfredsson, and the game winner by Mike Fisher. The New Jersey Devils shutdown line of Madden, Brylin, and Pandolfo is a combined -20 during the playoffs! That line was their bread and butter all season when it came to stopping their opponents top line and in the playoffs thus far they have almost become a liability. Add that to Martin Brodeur not playing his best hockey and you have a team that is now facing elimination.
I'd like to send a special thank you out to my boys at the Face Off Hockey Show who invited the Bosher on last night for an in depth discussion on facial hair. To listen to the broadcast click here!
Game of the Night:
Vancouver at Anaheim 9:00 PM
The Ducks, although no longer Mighty, are certainly playing that way. They have and opportunity to close out their series against the Canucks tonight and advance to the Western Conference Finals for the second consecutive season. The Canucks have battled back successfully from 3-1 defecits before, and have the chance to do it once more. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The New York Rangers defeated the Buffalo Sabres 2-1 last night. Barely.
With 17 seconds remaining, New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist made his biggest save of the night, preventing a shot by Daniel Briere from completely crossing the line. A long video review disallowed the would be tying goal. New York got power play goals from captain Jaromir Jagr and Brendan Shanahan. Henrik Lundqvist made 29 saves to complete the win, and tie the series 2-2.
Home ice advantage has been big for both teams in this series. The Battle for New York returns to Buffalo for a Friday night Game 5 matchup. Could Bosh have actually been right in calling this series in 7 games? Probably not, but it is nice to dream.
Quick Shave:
The Vancouver Canucks spirits may very well have been crushed last night. Leading 2-0 in the third period, they watched the Anaheim Ducks storm back on goals by Chris Pronger, and Teemu Selanne (has this poor guy taken a beaten this post season or what? Selanne caught a stick in the mouth last night, and now has more stitches in his face than his jersey) to force overtime. Ducks Travis Moen deposited the game winner two minutes into the extra period and gave the Ducks the 3-2 win, and the 3-1 series lead. The series returns to Anaheim for game 5 Thursday night.
Vancouver finally got a goal from Brendan Morrison, and some production from Markus Naslund as well, but all in a losing effort. What happened to these guys? Naslund looks like he is barely clinging to his last shred of confidence, and Morrison? Do these guys miss Bertuzzi that much? According to the Hockey News, neither is on the Canucks top power play unit.
Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer is certainly sporting a Norris calibre chin right now. Is that a playoff beard or what? He and his brother Rob will be on the Tonight Show this evening with Jay Leno, perhaps to discuss their formidable chin mullets.
Captain Bosh was actually interviewed by the gang over at NBC in Buffalo where playoff beards are growing like the RAGE virus (like that 28 Days Later reference?.... you might even think Bosh is getting kickbacks since the sequel is coming out next week, but you'd be wrong..... I'm just clever, and a big fan of zombies who terrorize London). Josh Boose wrote a lovely article which referenced the playoff beard, and the players and fans who grow them. To check out the story click here!
The NHL Award Nominees were released yesterday, and the list was for the most part free of surprises (well, I guess that's debatable):
Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP)
Sidney Crosby - Pittsburgh Penguins
Martin Brodeur - New Jersey Devils
Roberto Luongo - Vancouver Canucks
No shock here really. Remove these guys from their teams and none of them would have made the post season.
Lester B. Pearson Award (best player voted by the players)
Sidney Crosby - Pittsburgh Penguins
Roberto Luongo - Vancouver Canucks
Vincent Lecavalier - Tampa Bay Lightning
Vezina Tropy (best goaltender)
Martin Brodeur - New Jersey Devils
Roberto Luongo - Vancouver Canucks
Miikka Kiprusoff - Calgary Flames
Henrik Lundqvist - New York Rangers
Yes four options this year, because Kiprusoff and Lundqvist were actually tied for third in voting. I'm actually a little shocked that Hasek didn't get a nod this year. Red Wings look like their old selves with him between the pipes again.
James Norris Memorial Trophy (best defenceman)
Nicklas Lidstrom - Detroit Red Wings
Chris Pronger - Anaheim Ducks
Scott Niedermayer - Anaheim Ducks
Jack Adams Trophy (best coach)
Lindy Ruff - Buffalo Sabres
Michel Therrien - Pittsburgh Penguins
Alain Vigneault - Vancouver Canucks
No love for Ted Nolan? The Islanders were picked to finish 30th in the NHL, and I seem to remember seeing them in the playoffs. Don't worry Teddy, you're back. We know.
Calder Trophy (best rookie)
Evgeni Malkin - Pittsburgh Penguins
Jordan Staal - Pittsburgh Penguins
Paul Stastny - Colorado Avalanche
Los Angeles Kings center Anze Kopitar?
Frank J. Selke Trophy (best defensive forward)
Rod Brind'Amour - Carolina Hurricanes
Samuel Pahlsson - Anaheim Ducks
Jay Pandolfo - New Jersey Devils
Shouldn't their also be an award for the best offensive defensive? Fair is fair.
Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (most gentlemanly player)
Three guys who should be ashamed of themselves
Game of the Night:
New Jersey at Ottawa 7:00 PM
Detroit at San Jose 10:00 PM
San Jose and Ottawa are flexing their muscle. Can Detroit and New Jersey flex back, or will they break? Watch the games and find out!!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
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