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 The Washington Capitals might not only make the playoffs, but possibly clinch a post season berth as the three seed in the Eastern Conference.
Following the 4-1 win over the Carolina Hurricanes, the Washington Capitals pulled into a first place tie with the Canes for the Southeast Division lead. Their fifth win in a row, and ninth victory in their last 10 games, the Capitals have been riding the stellar play of their captain Alexander Ovechkin who potted his league leading 63rd goal last night. Regardless of the team's finish in the regular season, he has to be named the NHL's MVP.
The Caps are a team most clubs would dread meeting in the first round as they are riding a wave of momentum right now. If they do manage to win the Southeast they will take the third seed, and possibly bounce the Hurricanes from the playoffs altogether. The Caps also sit just 1 point behind the Boston Bruins, and the Philadelphia Flyers, and 2 behind the collapsing Ottawa Senators.
 Imagine a matchup between the Washington Capitals and the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first round of the playoffs? Or how about a Cap vs. Habs series that would see former number one goaltender Cristobal Huet do battle against young Carey Price who bounced him out of a job, and out of town? Storylines galore!
Quick Shave:
Are the Ottawa Senators going to miss the playoffs? The once dominant Senators (remember how lethal they were at the beginning of the season?) fell to the Montreal Canadiens 3-0 last night. Habs keeper Carey Price made 32 save for his 3rd shutout win of the year and helped his club clinch the Northeast Division title. The win also gave the club 100 points (the first time they've achieved that since their Stanley Cup season in 1992-93) and pulled them into a tie with the Pittsburgh Penguins for the Eastern Conference lead. The Sens are now 2 points from falling into the abyss of a post-season filled with watching, rather than playing (unless you count golf). Bryan Murray's takeover of the head coaching role has done little to motivate this club and the unthinkable is now quite possible.
 It's almost time to put the razors away folks. In case you are need of a refresher, check out the PlayoffBeard.com Guide to Grading the Playoff Beard here. You will learn all you need to know when in comes to the finer art of facial hair. Less than a week away! Playoff Hockey!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Just a few days removed from trading away a pair of character veterans, in Cory Stillman and Mike Commodore, the Carolina Hurricanes lost their team captain and a huge veteran presence Rod Brind'Amour for the rest of the season.
Brind'Amour sustained a knee injury during last night's game against the Pittsburgh Penguins. After being hit by Penguins Nathan Smith and Georges Laraque, Brind'Amour suffered a torn ACL. The Hurricanes captain will be out of action for 4 to 6 months following reconstructive knee surgery.
Brind'Amour leads the Hurricanes with 51 points (19 goals, 32 assists). The Carolina Hurricanes hung on to defeat the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-2.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The trading floor is open folks.
The Carolina Hurricanes and the Ottawa Senators began the trading season with a big one this afternoon, with a huge 4 player swap. The Ottawa Senators sent defenceman Joe Corvo, and forward Patrick Eaves to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for defenceman Mike Commodore (pardon the old portrait folks), and forward Cory Stillman.
Both Mike Commodore and Cory Stillman will both be unrestricted free agents this summer and Stillman agreed to waive his no-trade clause (something many players seem to be unwilling to do this year) in order to complete the deal between the two franchises.
Patrick Eaves will be a restricted free agent come the end of the season, and Joe Corvo has two years left on his contract.
It's hard to find negatives in this deal for either team and find a clear cut winner. The Ottawa Senators get a much needed physical defenceman in Mike Commodore (something they have been missing since the departure of Zdeno Chara), and some scoring depth from Cory Stillman. The Senators also get two very experienced Stanley Cup veteran players... something that will certainly help them this post-season.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 I hope everyone had an excellent Holiday.
Jaromir Jagr asked Santa for a way to break out of his scoring slump. Being that he wasn't on the naughty list, Ole St. Nick rewarded the New York Rangers with not one but a pair of goals in their 4-2 win over the Carolina Hurricanes last night.
The Rangers returned from their Christmas breaks with a sense of urgency last night, after going into their vacation on a very low note, dropping their final three games. The second period was especially nasty last night, as Rangers forward Colton Orr, levelled former Ranger Matt Cullen, and then threw down with Hurricanes defenceman Mike Commodore (Playoff Beard of the year runner up).
Scott Gomez assisted on both of Jagr's goals last night, and the reunion of this line after a failed early attempt at the beginning of the season appears to be bearing fruit. Gomez now has a 10 game point scoring streak. Henrik Lundqvist was stingy in net most of the night, especially later in the match, and made 20 saves for the win.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 This Carolina Hurricanes squad really looks like Cup team from two years ago.
The Ottawa Senators fell for the first time this season (pre-season included, which you have to admit for a team coming off a Stanley Cup Final dissapointment, is very impressive) to the Carolina Hurricanes 5-3 last night. Now if I remember correctly (and that is a scary bridge to entertain) the Hurricanes delivered the Sens their first loss two seasons ago, and also continually dominated them that season, while the Senators themselves owned the rest of the league..... this season is mirroring their Championship campaign more and more each game.
The Hurricanes Erik and Eric line lit the Sens up for 3 goals, (Cole had two, Staal had one, and a pair of helpers), and Rod Brind'Amour and Matt Cullen (who since his return from New York has 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in 5 games played) rounded out the scoring. The Sens rallied from a 4-1 lead late in the game, but ultimately fell short.
Quick Shave:
Aside for the Sens / Canes game it was blow-out city last night. Every game was pretty much over halfway through. The Toronto Maple Leaf pantsed the New York Islanders 8-1, bouncing back from a 7-1 whooping they recieved Tuesday night from the Canes. Captain Mats Sundin scored his 390th goal in a Leafs uniform and passed Darryl Sittler on both the franchise points and goals record. The Buffalo Sabres picked up their first victory of the season hammering the Atlanta Thrashers for the 6-0 shutout win. The Phoenix Coyotes defeated the Nashville Predators 6-3 and the Florida Panthers shutout the New Jersey Devils 3-0.
The Philadelphia Flyers may be looking to get back to their old school days of physically intimidating hockey, but the tough guy players seem to have a knack for getting themselves suspended. Flyers forward Steve Downie who is enjoying a 20 game suspension in the AHL for bodychecking Ottawa Senators forward Dean McAmmond's skull is most likely going to be joined by Flyers tough guy Jesse Boulerice who brushed Vancouver Canucks forwards Ryan Kesler's teeth with the shaft of his stick.
Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne were both on hand the other night for the Anahiem Ducks home opener. Neither seemed closer to returning, and both actually looked closer to retirement. Selanne has not skated since the last game of the Cup Finals, and Niedermayer has laced them up once for a hockey camp. It really looks like the Ducks will be on their own.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Am I a Toronto Maple Leafs fan? No, definitely not. I do however have a vested interest in this club, as I have gambled much like the Leafs themselves, the fate of my fantasy roster on the stellar play of former San Jose Sharks goaltender Vesa Toskala. Needless to say, my goaltending stats are so bad, that I may as well bench the rest of my starters and surrender the netminding categories. In fairness to Toskala, he did face 39 shots.... so where is the defence in Toronto? Where indeed.
 On a plus note for Leafs fans, Mats Sundin setup defenceman Bryan McCabe's first period powerplay goal, and recorded his 916th point as a Maple Leaf tying him with Darryl Sittler for the franchise's scoring record. Sadly that goal, would be the only one for Toronto, and that footnote, the only bright spot last night.
The Carolina Hurricanes torched the Leafs for 7 goals, by just about everyone. Four of the goals came on special teams by Jeff Hamilton, Scott Walker, Cory Stillman (who I dropped today because I thought he was injured.... yeah fantasy guru here), and Matt Cullen. A pretty interesting conversation between the broadcasters during the game stated that GM Jim Rutherford has actually re-assembled 17 of the original players from the Stanley Cup Championship team two years ago in an effort to re-kindle some of that chemistry..... ummm I think it might be working.
The Hurricanes were a vision of their former selves last night, and the Leafs.... well they look like they did last season.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The Montreal Canadiens power play is still humming, even without their quarterback Sheldon Souray manning the point. Habs defenceman Andrei Markov embraced that mantle and setup two power play goals.
Montreal Canadiens captain Saku Koivu scored two power play including the game winner (the second effort by Chris Higgins to get the puck over to Koivu and set up the final score was excellent.... check the highlight film) a little over a minute into the overtime period and helped the Habs defeat the Carolina Hurricanes 3-2.
While much of the talk this week was on rookie goaltender Carey Price making the Canadiens opening day roster it was veteran keeper Cristobal Huet who manned the pipes for Montreal last night. Huet turned aside 29 shots to help his club to the season opening win.
Quick Shave:
The Heat is on in Ottawa. Dany Heatley. Ok that was weak, but what's not is that the Ottawa Senators managed to lock up their star forward at the zero hour to a long term deal. The Sens will have Heatley in the fold for the next 6 years at a humbling $45 million (roughly $7.5 million per season). Heatley then went on to up-end the Toronto Maple Leafs by scoring two goals including the game winner in overtime to lift the Sens to a 4-3 win. Leafs coach Paul Maurice opted to start goaltender Andrew Raycroft in favor of newly acquired keeper Vesa Toskala.... a move that had Toronto media losing their minds (you should have heard Kypreos on the Rogers Sportsnet Radio show at noon yesterday... he made Pierre McGuire seem jolly). In any case, Maurice and the Leafs will be second guessed for the decision as Raycroft allowed 4 goals on 30 shots. Colorado Avalanche forward Paul Stastny put the finishing touches on his first ever career NHL Hat Trick midway through the second period last night. The Dallas Stars mounted a comeback but ultimately fell to the Avs 4-3. The Stars new jerseys.... what's up? Is it me or are they nothing more than practice sweaters? Solid white, with a small green star in the center of the chest? This is not the type of design that is going to have fans in Dallas or anywhere running out to get their new Reebok jersey. The Detroit Red Wings exacted some revenge from the Anaheim Ducks last night in their home opener as Jiri Hudler beat Bryzgalov for the only score in the shootout and help his club to the 3-2 win. Getzlaf, bro.... get a new shootout deke. Don't get me wrong it's cool, and sure it's worked a few times before, but I think keepers are getting an idea of what you are gonna do now pal.
Game of the Night:
Florida at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Philadelphia at Calgary 10:00 PM
These games are all about discovery. I'm super curious to see how UFA additions Chris Drury and Scott Gomez fit in with the Blueshirts, and I'd like to see if my theory that the Philadelphia Flyers will make the playoffs this year holds any water as they face off against an always solid Calgary Flames team..... with a Keenan behind the bench..... fear the Keenan.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Holy Crap.
I can't think of a time where I've felt like a bigger jackass. Not 24 hours after exclaiming that the NHL, free from scandal, had an opportunity available to them, to rise above the other professional sports leagues whose credibility is in freefall. So what do the NHL players do? Add more fuel to the fire.
Carolina Hurricanes forward Eric Staal, and his brother Pittsburgh Penguins forward Jordan Staal enjoyed themselves a little too much at a bachelor party. The brothers and more than a dozen others were arrested for disorderly conduct following the celebration of Eric Staal's upcoming August marriage.
Sigh.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Don Waddell, today you may breathe a sigh of relief. Your gamble has payed off.
Nearly a month removed from the trade deadline acquisition of Keith Tkachuk from St. Louis (where he mortgaged the farm), Waddell lit a fire under his club and helped propell them not only to the franchise's
first every playoff berth, but the team's first Division title.
The Atlanta Thrashers thoroughly dominated the Carolina Hurricanes (who at this point had little to play for other than pride, as they were knocked from the post season several days earlier) 4-1. Star forwards Ilya Kovalchuk, and Marian Hossa responded to their coaches recommendation that this match be treated like a Game 7, and they did just that by notching a goal each. The victory coupled with the Tampa Bay Lightning's crushing defeat at the hands of the Florida Panthers (7-2.... yeah they got old school whooped last night) secured the Southeast Division title for the Atlanta Thrashers.
The Thrashers finish up their season today against the Lightning in what very well could be their first round opponent next week. Certainly today's match will have playoff preview written all over it.
Quick Shave:
How good is the Florida Panthers Nathan Horton? Ask the Tamp Bay Lightning, a team which has owned all season. In 8 games facing Tampa Bay, Horton has racked up 12 points (9 goals, 3 assists), and scored his 9th last night to begin the bleeding. Everyone on the Panthers scored last night (including the mascot and a few fans) as the Panthers pretty much ended the Lightning's hopes of taking the Southeast Division title from the Thrashers during the first period. There may be a battle in the Western Conference after all. The Pacific Division is up for grabs after the Dallas Stars defeated the Anaheim Ducks 2-1 in a shootout last night. The overtime point knocked the Star from title contentions, but the Ducks now only have a narrow two point lead over the San Jose Sharks. Anaheim needs only one point to clinch the division, however should they lose, and the Sharks win, San Jose would take the Pacific, as well as the 2nd overall seed in the Western Conference. The Ducks would drop to 5th place. No pressure.
Game of the Night:
Edmonton at Calgary 10:00 PM
NY Islanders at Philadelphia 1:00 PM
Vancouver at San Jose 4:00 PM
Tampa Bay at Atlanta 7:00 PM
Montreal at Toronto 7:00 PM
NY Rangers at Pittsburgh 7:30 PM
St. Louis at Minnesota 8:00 PM
Nashville at Colorado 9:00 PM
Edmonton at Calgary 10:00 PM
Every single one of these games is crucial, but none will be as exciting or heated as the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. the Montreal Canadiens tonight. In order for the Leafs to get into the playoffs, they must defeat the Habs in regulation. If the Canadiens get a point in overtime, it's off to the golf course for Toronto. Now if Toronto wins, this is where it get's interesting. The Islanders must win their final two games, and if they do, then they will knock the Leafs out of the playoffs. Toronto must win and then root for the Devils on Sunday. The Islanders must win and root for the Leafs. The Habs.... they just need to root for themselves. Got all that?
Ok, next topic. The 8th spot in the West is as coveted as the one in the East. If Calgary loses to Edmonton today, and the Avs defeat the Predators it will set up a playoff deciding match between the two teams. I'm not saying I want to see the Flames knocked out, but how sweet would a 'win and yer in' game be tomorrow night. Game of the Year .... Edmonton at Calgary, 10:00 PM, Sunday.
The rest of the days games are stuffed with matches that will determine positioning, the Northwest Division title, and perhaps the President's Trophy winner. With that, I say enjoy the games my friends!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 It's painfully obvious what happened here. The Carolina Hurricanes were looking past their opponents the Philadelphia Flyers last night, figuring on an easy two points. That was perhaps a large error.
Instead of moving into a tie for 8th with the Canadiens and the Lightning, the Hurricanes ran into a wall. Newly acquired, and recently signed Flyers goaltender Martin Biron stopped 23 of the 24 shots the Hurricanes threw at him, and led his team to a 5-1 win. Flyers defenceman Derian Hatcher is on a tear, potting his second goal this month and the game winner last night! Fantasy Owners, take a look at the big guy if you are looking to bolster your playoff rosters!
The Hurricanes have now lost two straight and are dangerously close to becoming part of the unfortunate club of Stanley Cup Championship teams that fail to make the playoffs in the following season. Carolina is tied for 9th place with the Leafs and the Islanders.
Quick Shave:
The one thing that really sucks about Fantasy Hockey is getting excited over a win by your team and then realizing that your goaltender, who should have been playing didn't start and had nothing to do with the victory. That happened to me twice last night. The Florida Panthers captured a shootout win over the Atlanta Thrashers last night on the heels of a 33 save performance by backup netminder Craig Anderson. The Anaheim Ducks stormed the Chicago Blackhawks 3-1, and recieved some solid goaltending from backup Ilya Bryzgalov who made 20 saves. Unfortunately I started J.S. Giguere in place of Bryzy so no love for Bosh. What is really sad is that I did start Cam Ward last night, whom the Carolina Hurricanes thought they should rest in favor of Grahame..... good idea there Laviolette. So much for the Bosher.
I'd also like to welcome our newcomers Teri and Amy to the fold. Good to have you on beard! I mean on board.
Game of the Night:
Toronto at Atlanta 7:00 PM
Calgary at Minnesota 8:00 PM
Detroit at Nashville 8:00 PM
Detroit and Nashville! How sweet is that game going to be? The Hockey Gods are pleased with us! Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 What happened yesterday? Defense was thrown out the window and goaltending..... well there wasn't much of that to be found on the ice either.
Let's start off with the biggest shocker. Martin Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils may have delivered the worst game of his life yesterday afternoon. The Carolina Hurricanes pounded the future Hall of Famer for 4 goals on 12 shots, and he was immediately pulled in favor of backup goaltender Scott Clemmensen, who allowed 3 more. The Hurricanes defeated the Devils 7-2 and moved into sole possession of the 7th seed in the East. The good news for New Jersey is that when Brodeur falters like this, he rebounds rapidly and for lengthy periods of time. Expect several shutouts next week.
 Tell me the New York Islanders aren't missing Rick DiPietro. Since he's been out with a neck injury the Islanders have allowed 18 goals in three games. Backup goaltender Mike Dunham gave up 6 goals on 33 shots last night to the Florida Panthers. Panthers keeper Ed Belfour didn't fare much better but fortunately for him, he only allowed 5. The Panthers won the game 8-5, as captain Olli Jokinen scored a pair in the third to break the game open and help his team into 12th place with 73 points, just 6 points out of the playoffs. The Islanders, unable to keep pace are now tied for 9th, with Toronto and Montreal with 78 points.
 At Madison Square Garden, the Bruins had a rough evening last night as well. They started off the game looking good, peppering New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist with 13 shots in the first.... till the wheels came flying off in the second. Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas was yanked after giving up three consecutive goals and was replaced by Joey MacDonald..... who let in four more, and was replaced by Thomas..... everyone got that? The Ranger defeated the Bruins 7-0 and took control of the 8th spot in the Eastern Conference. Henrik Lundqvist made 30 saves on the evening for his 6th career shutout.
I n Phoenix (thats pronounced PUH - HO - Nixx), Curtis Joseph was lit up for 6 goals as the Colorado Avalanche had their way with him and the Coyotes. Captain Joe Sakic scored two goals, as did rookie Paul Stastny, who is really starting to give Pittsburgh Penguins rookie Evgeni Malkin a run for the Calder Trophy. The Avalanche won the game 6-3 and continued their recent playoff push. They are now 6 points out of the playoffs behind the Calgary Flames.
 Dominik Hasek and the Detroit Red Wings had an off evening as well. Usually the Red Wings don't allow more than 20 shots, and in some case less than 15. The rest Hasek takes care of. The Vancouver Canucks launched 38 at the Red Wings keeper, and put three past him (wasnt' there a game earlier in the season where they were only able to put 11 shots in total on net the entire game?). The Canucks won the game 4-1 on a 33 save performance by Roberto Luongo and kept their control of the Northwest Division over Minnesota by 1 point. Detroits loss combined with Nashville's win dropped them back into 4th place in the West but still with the second best record in the League.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Pittsburgh 7:30 PM
The last time these two teams faced off it was awesome! Ottawa had the game in hand, so I turned it off. Pittsburgh of course waited till they knew I wasn't watching and came back to win the game in the shootout. I'd expect a similiar offensive treat. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The New York Rangers waited till the end of the regular season, but they seem to have finally discovered some fortitude. The Rangers hung on in a tight match against the Carolina Hurricanes who held a one point lead over them in the standings, and managed to leave with the 2 points.
Jaromir Jagr set up defenceman Marek Malik (who really made a sweet play to split Carolina's defence, shoot, collect his rebound and backhand the puck past Cam Ward... who left the game in the second to recieve stitches after being cut over the knee from Isbister (i believe) skate after he was knocked down in the crease), and later in the shootout, potted the game winner past backup netminder John Grahame for the 2-1 win. The Rangers have now won four out of their last five games, and are now tied for 8th with the Carolina Hurricanes. They welcome the Ottawa Senators to the Garden on Tuesday.
 Quick Shave:
Teemu's kung fu is strong. Anaheim Ducks forward Teemu Selanne scored twice and an assisted on another (his linemate Andy McDonald did the same thing as well) to help lift his club over the red hot Vancouver Canucks 4-2 last night. Selanne also became the first NHL player over 35 years of age to have consecutive 40 goals seasons. New York Islanders forward Chris Simon finally recieved word on his suspension yesterday, and the news probably anticipated. Simon won't be back on the ice for the Islanders till next season. He is suspended for the remainder of the regular season, and the playoffs. If the Rangers play less than 10 playoff games his suspension will continue into next season. Speaking of suspensions, it appears NHLPA Executive Director Ted Saskin will finally be on his way out. This guy has been under a cloud since he took over for Bob Goodenow and it appears his actions may have finally sealed his fate. To read more about it, visit TSN.ca. San Jose Sharks goaltender Evgeni Nabokov is putting his playoff game on the ice early. Hopefully he will have some left for the post season. The Sharks keeper made 22 saves against the Edmonton Oilers to capture the 3-0 shutout win. The shutout was his third in the last four games.
Fantasy Playoffs Begin!
First off, I'd like to congratulate the Playoff Beard .com Fantasy GM's for a great regular season. Unfortunately for myself, and Stache, we will not be making the post-season dance this year..... the two guys who eat hockey for breakfast, lunch and dinner, 7 days a week..... we suck. However, props are due to our top six, and they are as follows:
1- Slue_Foot
2- 6th Degree Assault
3- Pittsburgh Penguins
4- Jacq Wazz
5- It's Not a Toomah
6- FroztFire
For them and everyone else in the Fantasy World the playoffs begin tonight! Goodluck and congratulations again!
Game of the Night:
St. Louis at Calgary 9:00 PM
Most of the games on tonight are pretty weak. Calgary, and Atlanta are the only two playoff bound teams on the card tonight, so that's why I'm picking this one. Really it's more because of St. Louis. They have refused to quit, and have actually played better since the trade deadline when they dumped Tkachuk, and Guerin. Calgary won't have an easy go of it this evening. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 It's been a while since I called out this guy's name, but Cam Ward is worthy of the attention today.
The Carolina Hurricanes have been dropping like a rock for weeks and were in desperate need of a win. Coach Laviolette let his squad take two days off to rest and the results were quite obvious..... whatever he hits, he destroys. Sorry Rocky IV flashback. The Hurricanes responded with a big effort. Goaltender Cam Ward made 25 saves for the 3-0 win, his second career victory by shutout. The Canes also moved into sole possession of 8th place in the Eastern Conference, after sharing that spot with the Rangers and Leafs.
 Quick Shave:
The Vancouver Canucks have really turned things around. Remember earlier in the season when they couldn't buy a goal (my buddy Jeff and I watched them get destroyed by the Predators 6-0 on Thanksgiving Day... as we got destroyed on a case of Canada's finest). That issue, along with goaltender Roberto Luongo's shaky start to the season has apparently been corrected. Luongo made 25 saves and Henrik Sedin scored the game winner in overtime to lift the Canucks over the San Jose Sharks last night 2-1. The win was a franchise record for the Canucks new goaltender. The Edmonton Oilers are done. Kind of sad when you consider this team was 60 minutes from winning the Stanley Cup last season. Last night they were man-handled by the Anaheim Ducks 5-1. Ryan Getzlaf scored twice for the Ducks, and has really had a nice season for his team..... he Penner, and Perry were the only returns teams wanted to trade for at the deadline, which is probably why Burke didn't make a deal .... good on him. Dallas Stars goaltender Marty Turco was another keeper in the spotlight last night. Turco made 30 saves to lift Dallas over the Columbus Blue Jackets 3-0 and record his 29th career shutout win. The Minnesota Wild stunned the Buffalo Sabres 5-1 last night on a two goal evening for Dominic Moore (scooped up at the trade deadline for a late pick) and a 35 save performance by rookie goaltender Josh Harding. Harding has stopped 90 of 92 shots in four games! I wonder if Manny Fernandez is worried about his job now that Harding and Backstrom seemed to have filled in very nicely for him during his absence. Mikael Samuelsson returned to the Detroit Red Wings starting lineup last night for the first time in over a month and scored the game winner to help his club defeat the Los Angeles Kings 3-2 in overtime. Dominik Hasek was also back in net and had 24 saves on the night. Hasek was out for 3 games because of tightness in his thigh (TSN.ca), and my question is why was he in the game last night? Hasek should be resting. Tightness in the thigh is a precursor to the infamous groin injury that has felled him in the past. The Red Wings need to proceed cautiosly if they expect the aging netminder to carry them to the promised land this year. Play Osgood for love of beard!
 The Countdown Begins!
Alright lads, this is it! The Playoff Beard Clock has started, and its time to start prepping the facial follicles for launch. We are now 30 days away from retiring our razors (or playing golf, depending on your teams plans prior to April 8th), and letting our chin mullets roam free across that blank canvas we call a jaw. We have a variety of veterans who will be making their triumphant return to the Playoff Beard arena, as well as a host of newcomers.... some of which may not even shave yet! CAN YOU DIG IT!
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at Pittsburgh 1:00 PM
New Jersey at Buffalo 7:00 PM
Ottawa at Toronto 7:00 PM
Atlanta at Florida 7:30 PM
Tampa Bay at Calgary 10:00 PM
What game isn't a game of the night at this point in the season? There are so many matches that require our attention it becomes difficult to choose. The meetings in the Eastern Conference are especially important as everyone is fighting for the final two spots. Of course I will be watching the Blue Shirts tackle the Pens this afternoon, but I really am looking forward to the Devils / Sabres matchup tonight. The Devils are in position to dethrone the the Sabres for top spot in the East. The Maple Leafs will be looking to respond to the beating Ottawa layed on the a few nights ago in their rematch, and the Panther who refuse to quit, will be taking on the Atlanta Thrashers who are trying to keep pace with the Tampa Bay Lightning..... who also have a tough test against the Calgary Flames this evening. Enjoy the games brothers and sisters of the beard!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Sidney Crosby became the youngest NHL player ever to reach the 200 point mark last night during a 3-2 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes.
The 19 year old scored his 27 the goal, and 98th point of the season last night in the loss. Crosby is just 2 points shy of his second consecutive 100 point season (last seaon he scored 102 (39 goals, 63 assists) in 81 games last year). Can he be one of the youngest to be sporting a playoff beard this season? Can he grow a playoff beard? Does he shave? All this and more are sure to be discovered very soon.
Game of the Night:
Nashville at Anaheim 8:00 PM
The big boys clash tonight. Anaheim is 3 points behind the Nashville Predators who lead the Western Conference with 90 points. Should be an epic clash! Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Anson Carter is changing zip codes once again!
The Carolina Hurricanes have acquired the winger from the Columbus Blue Jackest for a fifth round draft pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. In 53 games with the Blue Jackets, Carter has scored 10 goals and 17 assists.
While Carter isn't having the year he would have liked following his productive 2004-2005 campaign riding alongside the Sedin twins in Vancouver, he is still a decent pickup for the Canes, and especially at that price. His price tag is considerably lower than what St. Louis will be asking for if they trade Bill Guerin and Keith Tkachuk. The Hurricanes were probably looking to plug the hole left by recently injured Erik Cole.
Game of the Night:
Edmonton at Detroit 7:30 PM
Boston at Tampa Bay 8:00 PM
Anaheim at Dallas 8:30 PM
Light night in the NHL, but as we wind things down in the regular season, more and more of these games will become very important....thus Games of the Night...in my opinion. The most important one, is probably the Boston vs. Tampa game. A loss or win, could determine whether the Bruins clean house or stay put prior to Tuesday's trade deadline. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Calgary Flames forward Daymond Langkow scored within the first minute of last nights match and effectively ruined the first game of the Carolina Hurricanes roadtrip. Langkow's goal would be all the Flames needed (even though they got two more) as they shutdown, and shutout the Hurricanes 3-0.
Flames goaltender Miikka Kiprusoff made 23 saves to get his fourth shutout of the season. Langkow's goal and assist on Iginla's empty netter later in the game extended his point scoring streak to six games, and the Flames win streak to three games. Daymond Langkow now has 8 goals and 15 assists in 25 games, and is a +2. He is probably still available in most leagues (I've seen him in mine) and is definitely a great roster replacement for that sentimental Jeremy Roenick pick up.....man that stings.
 Quick Shave:
Buffalo Sabres forward Daniel Briere joined the NHL HTC for the first time in his career last night. Briere's three goals, helped the Sabres easily put down the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-1 last evening. Costly win for the Ottawa Senators? The Ottawa Senators are officially back, and starting to win game in bunches (and against quality opponents) and last night took it to the New York Islanders 4-2. Unfortunately, they lost their captain Daniel Alfredsson to a leg injury in the third period. The Toronto Maple Leafs blew a 2-0 lead over the Atlanta Thrashers last night in the third period and lost 5-2. Maple Leaf fans are still booing. Goaltending controversy in Columbus? Backup Fredrik Norrena started his second game in a row over Pascal Leclaire and stopped 42 Colorado Avalanche shots to give the Columbus Blue Jackets the 3-0 shutout victory. His second shutout in two games (he prevented the Oilers from scoring in the Saturday evening 4-0 win).
Game of the Night:
Montreal at New Jersey 7:30 PM
Carolina at Edmonton 9:30 PM
Nashville at Anaheim 10:00 PM
These all look pretty tasty to me. Especially the last two. The Carolina Hurricanes return to Rexall Place for the first time since the Stanley Cup Finals, and the second place Nashville Predators face off agains the first place Anaheim Ducks. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
While it wasn't a natural hat trick, it was a hat trick none the less. Eric Staal put the icing on the cake for the Carolina Hurricanes as they beat the Dallas Stars 5-4 in a wild and exciting game.
The Dallas Stars who put themselves behind early by taking repeated penalties, gave the Hurricanes ample opportunity to capitalize as Eric Staal converted two of the power play chances. The Hurricanes held a 3-1 advantage at one point in the game till Dallas fought back to draw the game even. With less than 7 minutes remaining in the third period Justin Williams snapped a beauty from the left circle over the near side of Turco to give the Hurricanes a 4-3 lead. Staal closed the door on the game, and his hat trick with an empty netter late in the game. Dallas actually got a late goal with 1 second remaining from Jaroslav Modry, but it was way too little, and much too late. The Carolina Hurricanes took the match 5-4.
Quick Shave:
Ok, let's talk some Alexander Frolov. The Los Angelse Kings forward in the last three games, has scored 2 goals in each game. That is outstanding! This kid has three opportunities to join the HTC, but has missed in three chances. He's knocking at the door! For the third consecutive game, Frolov added two tallies and this time, had some help from Craig Conroy to help lift the Los Angeles Kings over the Phoenix Coyotes 5-3. Yeah Cristobal! Huet is making a huge statement of late that he should the Montreal Canadiens number one goalie as he made 39 saves last night to hand the Atlanta Thrashers their fourth straight loss 3-1. SInce Huet is my boy, I hope this happens. Il est un tres bon goalie! Are the Ottawa Senators back, or are the Buffalo Sabres falling apart? In their game in 4 days against the Sabres, the Senators have fought back to defeat their opponents twice. Last night by a score 4-1. The Sens beat Buffalo 4-2 on Wednesday evening. The New York Rangers pretty much handed the game to the Pittsburgh Penguins last night, serving on a slue of penalties, and three two-man advantages. The Penguins capitalized on two of the powerplays and buried the Rangers 3-1. Mark Recchi scored two of the goals. The Boston Bruins won their fourth game in row defeating the Washington Capitals 3-1 in OT last night. Glen Murray seems to be rebounding from his loss of Thornton this season, and scored the game winner in OT on the powerplay for the B's. Martin Brodeur is once again the man. This guy can have an awful game, and the next team he faces will pay the price. Last night, the Leafs were the unfortunate victims of 'bounce back' Brodeur and he made 33 saves to lift the New Jersey Devils over the Leafs 2-1. Sometime today, Ken Hitchcock will be putting on his Sunday best, waxing his playoff moustache (no copyright infringement I hope), and officially interviewing with the Columbus Blue Jackets about their head coaching position. This interview should last all of 10 seconds, with one question asked of Kenny. When can you start? The Blue Jackets lost again last night to the Nashville Predators 4-2. According to TSN.ca the Phoenix Coyotes may be trying to deal defenceman Ed Jovanovski to the San Jose Sharks for goaltender Evgeni Nabokov. The only problem with said deal, is the Nabokov has a no-trade clause to waive. Will he do so to join the lowly Yotes? I doubt it.
Game of the Night:
Tampa Bay at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
I'm going homer here. The Ranger have lost two straight, and have only scored 2 goals in those two games. The Lightning have won 5 in a row (i think, Sam Rosen was talking about how great they have been playing, so I'm paraphrasing a touch here) and will look to continue that streak against the boys in blue. Enjoy the games my bearded friends!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Some of Game of the Night huh? Well if you are a Hurricanes fan that is.
The Carolina Hurricanes took on the Washington Capitals last night who have been playing some outstanding hockey led by their young superstars Alexander Ovechkin and Alexander Semin. The Carolina Hurricanes responded with an equalizing effort from a pair their young superstars. Cam Ward stopped all 20 shots he faced, and forward Erik Cole joined the NHL Hat Trick club with three goals to help the 'Canes take the 5-0 win easily.
After a rough start, the Carolina Hurricanes have begun to re-discover their Stanley Cup Winning form, and now sit second in the Southeast behind on the Atlanta Thrashers (who are unstoppable right now, and have 27 points on the season...they are first in the East!).
Quick Shave:
The Anaheim Ducks crushed the Vancouver Canucks 6-0 last night and set an NHL record for remaining unbeaten in regulation time for 16 straight games. Is this team everything we'd thought it would or what? Jean-Sebastien Giguere got the shutout and counterpart Roberto Luongo got pulled after letting in 3 goals on 6 shots. Before I go further, allow me to also welcome Patrick Marleau to the NHL Hat Trick Club (I was reprimanded for leaving Kozlov's 3 goal evening unmentioned, so I am loathe to repeat that mistake) which was just a small contribution to the San Jose Sharks 7-3 win over the Los Angeles Kings. Jonathan Cheechoo added a pair of goals, and rotating keeper Vesa Toskala made 35 saves on the night. The Dallas Stars were only able to penetrate the rock, solid, desert blueline of the Phoenix Coyotes once, on a tally by Brendan Morrow. Marty Turco was able to hold on for the mostt difficult shutout of his career by stopping a relentless 13 shots. I'm laying the sarcasm on so thick here I'm ready to choke. What the hell is going on Phoenix? Cujo made 34 saves, and you guys couldn't even get him a goal? Blow this team up. While you are at blow the Flyers up, and what the heck, nuke the Sens. Enough is enough. Ok, nobody really expected much from the Coyotes, but 13 shots? Calgary puts more on net than...oh wait no they don't. Speaking of the Philadelphia Flyers...they lost again. The New York Islanders responded after a few rough outtings and slapped the Flyers around 3-1. It's funny how the Flyers have become the team, that other teams use to get back on track. Provided he is healthy, Forsberg will be traded to a contender by the deadline, if not sooner.
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at Atlanta 7:30 PM
Can the New York Rangers topple the Southern Juggernaut! I hope so! There actually a bunch of great games on tonight which is rare for a Friday night, but since the Thrashers are playing so well, I'm curious to see how my blueshirts stack up against them. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Cristobal Huet and Habs exacted a small amount of revenge from the Carolina Hurricanes last night by shutting down the reigning Stanley Cup Champs 4-0. Carolina knocked the Canadiens out of the first round of the playoffs last year in 6 games. Huet knocked the Canes out of the building in 60 minutes. Cristobal Huet made 31 saves en route to his first shutout of the season over the Hurricanes.
The Canes were coming off a 5-2 win over the Thrashers, the evening prior, and when the Habs jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the second, the wind seemed to come out of their sails. Defenceman Mike Komisarek opened the scoring, and Saku Koivu, Mike Johnson and Tomas Plekanec also recorded goals, in the shutout victory.
Quick Shave:
Either the Buffalo Sabres are that good....or the Boston Bruins just suck. The Bruins had the game wrapped up, with a 4-2 lead, with 8 minutes to play in the third.....and let the Sabres tie the game, force OT, and the eventual shootout where Buffalo rolled over Boston to get the 5-4 victory. Right now, the Flyers fans are laughing at Boston. Or are they? The Philadelphia Flyers got their clocks cleaned by the Tampa Bay Lightning last night 5-2......at least they are consistent. Kevin Weekes in his second straight start for the New York Rangers, defeated his second straight California team. Two nights ago he helped the Rangers to an overtime win over the Ducks, and last night stopped 29 shots and get the 3-1 win over the San Jose Sharks. Goaltending controversy in New York? Probably not. I told you guys Tom Renney would start benching players, and Lundqvist who has been incredibly average so far this season, has earned some time on the pine. The New York Islanders look good. They owned the Devils last season, and looks like this year that trend will continue. The Islanders hammered the New Jersey Devils 5-2 last night, and Rick DiPietro only had to make 14 to saves for his team to get the win. The Islanders who started off the season shaky have gone 6-1-2 since losing their first 3 games, and now sit in a three way tie for first with the Rangers and believe it or not...the Penguins. The Minnesota Wild are also looking very good. After falling behind on two quick goals by the Canucks, the Wild stormed back, and got the win 5-2. Brian Rolston had a penalty shot during the game and rather than try and fancy dekes, he powered a slapshot past the flat footed Luongo who had little chance on the puck. That has to be one of the coolest things I've ever seen. The St. Louis Blues goalie Manny Legace shut the door on the Colorado Avalanche last night making 44 saves and helping his club to the 4-1 win. Bill Guerin scored 2 goals in the game. After not being re-signed by his former club, Eddie Belfour showed the Leafs why that may have been an error in judgement last night. Belfour stopped 23 shots, and his new team the Florida Panthers went on to defeat the Leafs 4-2.
Game of the Night:
Dallas at Edmonton 9:30 PM
There's alot of history between these two clubs, and both teams are definitely on top of their games so far this season and should be a terrific matchup. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The NHL Hat Trick Club added two new members last night. The first coming from Tampa Bay Lightning forward and former NHL MVP Martin St. Louis. St. Louis broke the team record (which he set) for the fastest hat trick scored. St. Louis scored the three goals during the second period in 6 minutes and 17 seconds, and helped his team defeat the Carolina Hurricanes 5-1 (which look like they are having some troubles....and Cam Ward is looking very ordinary.....). The Tampa Bay Lightning have been a team under the rumor focus as of late, especially with the Great Purge in Philly.....could John Tortorella be on his way out if the Lightning don't start getting it done? For more on these rumors check out Spector's Hockey.
Our second addition to the NHLHTC (nice right?) is young Dany Heatley of the Ottawa Senators. Another team who's awful start was overshadowed by the play of the Philadelphia Flyer, has certainly seemed to turn the corner for good. Since blowing out the Devils 8-1 last Saturday, the Senators offence is on fire. The Ottawa Senators crushed the Toronto Maple Leafs for the second game in a row 7-2. Dany Heatley scored three goals for the hat trick, and Jason Spezza who has also left his scoring slump behind had 5 points on the match. Coach Bryan Murray, and GM John Muckler are certainly breathing a little easier after this week, for if the Sens hadn't straightened out their play, they could be playing golf with Hitch and Clarke by now.
Quick Shave:
The Buffalo Sabres have tied the record for most wins in a row to start a season, set by the Leafs in 1994 with 10. While their 10th win came against the punchless Islanders (perhaps Dunham should return to the crease), the Sabres show no sign of letting up. They can break the record with their 11th win, on Saturday night if they can defeat the Atlanta Thrashers....a team that is beginning to look and play alot like the Sabres. Game of the Night all over that one! After a couple of rough outtings, New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur responded with 29 save performance and helped his team shutout the Florida Panthers 3-0. The shutout was Brodeur's 82nd, which ties him with Jacques Plante for fourth overall on the shutout list. Peter Forsberg and Simone Gagne helped the Philadelphia Flyers to their second win of the season, and perhaps the turning point of the club under new head coach John Stevens. The Flyers defeated the Thrashers 3-2 in the shootout. Coach Hartley of the Thrashers pulled netminder Hedberg in favor of Lehtonen for the shootout (Kari Lehtonen, prior to last night was 6-1 on the shootout....but I believe he was the goalie in net during the game, not in relief), while on paper it may have looked like a good move, Lehtonen appeared cold, and was only able to stop one goal. It appears the sleeping giant in the desert has awakened! The unstoppable, playoff bound, Stanley Cup Contending Phoenix Coyotes mauled the Edmonton Oilers 6-2 last night. Most of the last sentence was nonsense....other than the score....the Oilers actually did lose to the Yotes. San Jose Shark's goalie Vesa Toskala lost his first game of the season to the Nashville Predators last night 4-3. Predators rookie Alexander Radulov scored his first career NHL goal....is it fantasy pick up time yet.....no not yet, but I'd put him on your watch list.
Game of the Night:
Anaheim at Minnesota 8:00 PM
Two powerhouses do battle in the West. Minnesota looks stellar so far, and playing the Ducks should be a solid bench test for them. Enjoy the beard!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The answer right now. No. Nothing short of conventional weapons will stop this hockey club. The defending Stanley Cup Champs, the Carolina Hurricanes tried for the second time, and missed again by a goal. Buffalo Sabre's goalie wasn't as solid as he has been, and the Hurricanes were able to put 4 pucks past him. However, Carolina's goalie Cam Ward let 5 go by.....so they lost (that is commentary!)....5-4.
Maxim Afinogenov continues to be a threat on the ice, and is finally becoming the superstar forward everyone thought he would be. His finishing skills are now catching up to his super hero like speed. Afinogenov had a goal and two assists against the Hurricanes last night, and is 2nd overall in the NHL in scoring with 12 points (4 goals, and 8 assists).
Quick Shave:
The Anaheim Mighty Ducks are the first to solve the Minnesota Wild! The Minnesota Wild were the only other undefeated in the NHL, off to a franchise record 6-0 start. Anaheim goaltender J.S. Giguere made 27 saves to help the Ducks drop the Wild 2-1. The Chicago Blackhawks may have lost more than a game to Dallas last night. Martin Havlat, the leading NHL scorer injured an ankle during the game and will be evaluated today. No break was visible following an MRI, so that's good....this is where the nay-sayers start singing the 'I told you' so about Havlat's injury history. Perhaps it's true, but I bet everyone in Ottawa still wishes he was a Senator.
Game of the Night:
Colorado at Montreal 7:00 PM
Detroit at Edmonton 10:00 PM
Jose Theodore returns to Montreal? Could be interesting, although I can't imagine the Habs fans giving him to much of hard time. But who knows. Either way, he will probably be on top of his game trying to shove it in Gainey's face this evening. Detroit gets a small opportunity to give Edmonton a little payback in this round 1 rematch from last year's playoffs. Detroit has had a rough road trip so far, and could use a game like this to ignite the engines again. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The New York Rangers hoped for big things from Brendan Shanahan, and he has failed to dissapoint thus far. Shanahan has been the bright spot on a team that is still trying to recover from last seasons free fall and total playoff collapse. In his sixth game as a blue shirt, Brendan Shanahan delivered his league leading seventh goal, and helped the Rangers break free from their 3 game losing streak, and hopefully right the ship.
The Rangers defeated their cross river rival the New Jersey Devils 4-2 last night. In what is usually a game that helps to jump start the Devils, this time the Rangers may have found the launch pad needed to re-discover the discipline that propelled them last year. They face a big test against the re-tooled Nashville Predators who have shown signs of improvement following their sluggish start on Wednesday night. Henrik Lundqvist also found his game last night stopping 34 Devil shots and being named the first star of the game.
Quick Shave:
The Stanley Cup Champs are playing like Stanley Cup Champs again. The Carolina Hurricanes playing off another solid outing by goaltender Cam Ward, who made 34 stops, pounded the Tampa Bay Lightning 5-1 last night. Justin Williams joined the ever growing NHL Hat Trick club by putting the lotion in the basket three times. Yes another hat trick! What the heck is going on with Mike Dunham? I have to give this guy credit. After a couple of average season's with the Rangers, and a lackluster year with the Atlanta Thrashers (including the game that he collapsed against the Caps last year that saw the Thrashers miss their first playoff appearance by 2 points), Dunham was floating in limbo uncertain that he would be playing again. After being offered at tryout with the Islanders, making the roster, and taking over for Rick DiPietro with a groin injury, Dunham has shined. In three starts, the New York Islanders remain unbeaten in regulation, 2 wins, and last nights shootout loss to the Preds. Mike Dunham stopped 32 shots, and ensured the Islanders get a point in the standings for their effort. The Chicago Blackhawks look pretty good so far....don't they realize they are supposed to suck? Perhaps Martin Havlat didn't get that memo, because he's leading the league in scoring with 12 points (6 goals, 6 assists).
Game of the Night:
Philadelphia at Buffalo 7:00 PM
Dallas at San Jose 10:30 PM
An early game and a late game, so you can watch both...that is how generous the Bosher is. Philadelphia is off to a very slow start with only 1 win so far, and Buffalo is well....in the words of Ivan Drago's manager from Rocky IV..."whatever they hit....they destroy!" Buffalo took care of the Flyers in the first round of the playoffs last year, and I bet R.J. Umberger is still shuddering from the skull crushing hit he recieved from Brian Campbell. How much you wanna bet his head will be up when enters the neutral zone? This should be a great test for the Flyers, and another chance for the Sabres to show everyone they are the real deal. Dallas and San Jose? Do I really need to explain why this game should be accompanied by a large cooler full of ice cold Labatt Blues? Enjoy the games my razor hating friends!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
It had to happen sooner or later. The Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes finally got their first win last night against the red hot Atlanta Thrashers. Thrasher's netminder Kari Lehtonen prior to meeting the Hurricanes had only allowed 3 goals in 3 games. Carolina came out and solved him early on a pair of goals by Craig Adams, and made the score 3-0 late in the first on a score by Eric Staal.
The Thrashes came back to tie, and looked as though they might deny the 'Canes their first victory, until Ray Whitney buried the game winner with less than a second remaining in the third. The Hurricanes won the match 4-3. Captain Rod Brind'Amour got his first points of the season, assisting on 3 of the Hurricane goals.
The Hurricanes have allowed 18 goals prior to this meeting, and really need to shore up their defensive play. Sophomore keeper Cam Ward needs to find the game that earned him the Conn Smythe Tropy during the playoffs last year. Ward stopped 31 of the Thrashers shots last night, so he appears to be off the skids.
Quick Shave
The Tampa Bay Lightning need to find their spark (nice right?) as well. The lost their third straight last night to their cross state rivals the Florida Panthers 3-2. Lecavalier got his first goal of the season, but it did little to help his team's effort. Pittsburgh Penguins rookie Evgeni Malkin has been practicing with his team for the past few days, and yesterday took part in contact drills. The young forward could make his debut for the Pens next week. Great news. The Penguins by the way, look outstanding. They need to tighten up their defense more, but their offence looks like it can compete with anyone. They are making Captain Bosh look pretty smart right now! The Sabres look outstanding (they actually looked awful in this one, but rallied back)! They appear to be this season's Dallas Stars....meaning, if you can't beat them in regulation, you are going to lose to them in the shootout. They beat the Red Wings 3-2 for their third shootout of win of the season, and remain undefeated.
Game of the Night:
Columbus at Minnesota 8:00 PM
There are a ton to watch tonight, including a great one between the Sabres and Rangers, and the Flyers meeting the Devils. Montreal is also hosting the Senators for their home opener. So why choose Minnesota and Columbus? Two reasons. Neither really gets the respect they deserve, and secondly, both are quietly making waves and joining playoff calibre teams. The Wild and Blue Jackets should both make the playoffs this year, and can no longer be taken for granted by their opponents. Both are also loaded with some of the best young talent in the league. Oh yeah, neither has lost in regulation. Time to get familiar I think, because I will be mentioning them alot this season. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Do you think Todd Bertuzzi had something to prove last night? He certainly silenced some of his critics last night with his 4 point night which included the first goal of the season for himself, and for the Florida Panthers.
The game was close till the second period, then the Panthers went on a goal parade, scoring 5 unanswered tallies to defeat the new look Boston Bruins (new players, same great taste) 8-3.
Alex Auld who came over in the trade with Bertuzzi was outstanding, stopping 34 shots. The Panthers spread the scoring around as Mike Van Ryn, Juraj Kolnik, Nathan Horton (fantasy owners, keep an eye on this kid, I think this is gonna be his year), Chris Gratton, Olli Jokinen, and Joe Niewendyk all potted goals. Niewendyk's goal was his 561st, and passed Guy LaFleur on the NHL scoring list....he now sits 19th. Boston's Zdeno Chara was an even rating for the night and did provide 2 assists for Boston, while their other big name acquisition, Marc Savard got his first point on an assist the Bruins.
Quick Shave
The Devils spanked the Hurricanes last night, using the same tactic the Cane's used in the playoffs to defeat them. Deflection, deflection, deflection. Every goal on Cam Ward last night was redirected in front of him and easily found the back of the net. Brodeur recorded his first win by way of shutout 4-0 over the Hurricanes. Watch out for the Sabres! As Playoff Moustache said the other day, this team looks like they are still playing playoff hockey. Last night was no different. Discouraged (actually furious) by some third period penalty calls, the Sabres rallied from a two goal defecit against the Habs on scores by Captain Daniel Briere and Maxim Afinogenov to tie the game late in the third. Ryan Miller and the Sabres went on to defeat the Montreal Canadiens for their second win of the season, again by shootout. The Sedin twins are at it again for Vancouver. Daniel and Henrik Sedin combined to tie the game 2-2 against the Columbus Blue Jackets, and got together once more to finishe the game less than a minute into extra time. Roberto Luongo recorded his second win of the season for Vancouver. Blue Jackets goalie Pascal LeClair was solid stopping 41 of 44 shots. The Anaheim Ducks still have a little rust to work out, but hints of what the scariest powerplay in the NHL were clearly apparent last night. Watching Selanne and Pronger bomb shots from the points was impressive, and the way the forwards in front were able to cycle, retrieve and get the puck back to them to reload was outstanding. J.S. Giguere was outstanding in net, stopping 41 shots, as the Ducks beat the L.A. Kings 4-3.
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at Philadelphia 7:00 PM
Buffalo at Ottawa 7:00 PM
Saturday night is great! There are a ton of games to choose from, but I feel these two, especially the playoff rematch between Buffalo and Ottawa will be outstanding. Buffalo looks terrific, and despite the criticism, I like the new jerseys. I love the players numbers on the right breast, it gives them a 'soccer' look and feel. Hopefully Spezza will score a goal for Stache tonight. The Flyers are coming off a humiliating defeat against the Pens two nights ago, and should be ready to go against their hated rivals the Rangers tonight. I expect this game to be nasty....however no Brashear, and a possibly scratched Darius Kasparitus (coach Tom Renney has been unhappy with his conditioning and scratched him the first game, which Kaspar was pissed about, but guess what buddy....this is the new Rangers...no more free rides! I hope Renney continues to lay down the law like this) may not be as ugly as previous engagements. Enjoy the games my fellow bearders!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 On a night where the Carolina Hurricanes raised their Stanley Cup Banner to celebrate their 2005-2006 season, the Buffalo Sabres were only thinking about how they fell one game short to the same team only months ago in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The Buffalo Sabres weathered an early storm (no pun intended) of shots by the Hurricanes on opening night, till Pomminville opened the scoring for the Sabres halfway through the first. Staal evened the score minutes later for the Hurricanes. Both teams traded goals on scores by the Hurricanes Erik Cole, and Buffalo's Chris Drury. After that it was all goaltending.
Buffalo's Ryan Miller made 32 saves while Cam Ward stopped 30 shots, till the game went to OT, and the inevitable shootout. The Sabres Daniel Briere scored the only goal during the shoot out, and Ryan Miller shut down the Canes to take the first win of the NHL season 3-2.
Senators level Leafs
The Maple Leafs need goal scoring. They also need defense, and perhaps goaltending. The only Leafs goal was provided by Mats Sundin on a penalty shot. Other than that it was all Ottawa. Patrick Eaves, Chris Neil, Christoph Schubert, and Daniel Alfredsson all recorded tallies in the 4-1 victory over the Maple Leafs.
Dallas stuns Colorado
WOW! Dallas looked horrible all game, and in fact didn't even show up till the third. If not for Turco, they would have been down far more than 2-0 to the Avs. In the third however, Theodore didn't show up, and let two quick goals by in the opening minutes. The game went to OT, where the Avs started on a power play which they failed to convert. As the penalty ended, Turco fed a sweet pass to Darryl Sydor who was just out of the sin bin and broke free to wrist one over Theodore's right shoulder and help Dallas to a 3-2 OT victory!
Game of the night:
Vancouver at Detroit 7:00 PM
Calgary at Edmonton 10:00 PM
I give you two, because I'm generous. I'm really interested to see the new looks of all four of these teams. Vancouver's new goalie in Roberto Luongo, and will Naslund lineup with the Sedin boys? How will Detroit fare in the post Yzerman / Shanahan era.....and how will Hasek be in net for the Wings? In Calgary, has Iginla finally found the scoring linemate he has so desperately been seeking in Tanguay, and how will Edmonton respond after coming within a game of winning the Stanley Cup? All these questions will be answered tonight! Probably not all tonight, but some perhaps. Regardless, both matches look to be the most exciting ones on the card! Enjoy the games!
Hockey is back!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The 2006-2007 NHL Season officially begins tonight, and what better way to kick start than with a rematch of the Eastern Conference finalists Buffalo Sabres, facing off against the team that beat them in game 7 and went on to become the Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes? Both teams have had some turnover during the off season, but the core players that took them to the promised land last season remain. Eric Staal of the Carolina Hurricanes will look to improve upon his 100 point (45 goals, 55 assists) regular season in 2005-2006, and help his team defend their title. Staal led all player in the playoffs last season with 28 points (9 goals, 19 assists).
The Buffalo Sabres spent most of the summer battling arbitraters and for the most part came out on top. Daniel Briere will be out to prove that his $5 million arbitration award was deserved and help bring his Sabres over the hump. This should be an awesome matchup and the launchpad for one of the newest rivalries. I'm definitely calling this one my Game of the Night!
Also on the card this evening is Ottawa travelling to meet the Leafs in Toronto. No Hasek? No Chara? No Problem. A younger squad of Sens will surely test the new blue line corps of the Leafs tonite, and see if all that money they threw at Hal Gil, and Pavel Kubina was worth it.
The late game is another playoff rematch from last season between the Dallas Stars, who were handily whipped by the Colorado Avalanche in the first round. All eyes will be on Stars goaltender Marty Turco, to see if he can shake off the sting of yet another dissapointing playoffs. Keep an eye on Marek Svatos of the Avs....the kid can fly and hopefully won't fall into a sophomore slump.
Tonight's Games:
Buffalo at Carolina 7:00 PM
Ottawa at Toronto 7:30 PM
Dallas at Colorado 10:00 PM
Tonight's Show:
October 4th Show
Drop the puck, it's time to go. The NHL season gets underway tonight and we'll give you the latest from the first night of hockey. Lyle Richardson from Spector's Hockey will join us to talk about Lou Lamoriello's deal with the Devils and the moves on the last week of camps. Michael Dolan from FHM Magazine will join us to talk about the FHM NHL Preview, the happenings on the website, and how much damage the crew did at the FHM/NHL Party last Wednesday. All that, plus the beginning of the FOHSHL Report and more from the WHL in the WHL Report. We're chocked full of action and it's just night one.
TONIGHT AT 9PM EST!!
Click here to listen.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Unwilling to sign with the Hurricanes for the past two season, defenceman Jack Johnson, the 3rd overall pick from 2005 was dealt to the L.A. Kings along with defenceman Oleg Tverdovsky, in exchange for defenceman Tim Gleason, and Eric Belanger.
The Hurricanes were left with a depleted defence corps, after losing Aaron Ward to free agency, and the recent injury to Frantisek Kaberle, were in need of fresh bodies. Their #1 pick from 2 years ago, Jack Johnson, has refused to sign, preferring to remain in college. Rumors were abound that he would be dealt, but no appealing offers were apparently to be had. Until today.
The Hurricanes aquire an average defender in Tim Gleason, with tremendous offensive upside. He scored 21 points for the Kings (2 goals, 19 assists) last season and center Eric Belanger who scored 37 points (17 goals, 20 assists) should help to lessen the loss of Cory Stillman. Slightly. However, they get two NHL ready players for one, and an untested rookie who would never have played for them.
The big question is, can the Kings lure Johnson from Michigan (i think that's where he plays), sign him to a pro contract and get him in the line up. The bigger question is, can Johnson play at the NHL level. Bigger still, can he grow a playoff beard? Can the Kings make the playoffs!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The pre-season has been tough on a lot teams so far. Injuries are abound and the season hasn't even begun yet. So far it appears the groin is the most popular ailment. Here's a list of the wounded:
Toronto Maple Leafs
Kyle Wellwood - groin
Michael Peca - groin
Darcy Tucker - unknown
Ben Ondrus - unknown
Wade Belak - groin
Tomas Kaberle - unknown
Brendan Bell - bone bruise
San Jose Sharks
Jonathan Cheechoo - groin
Joe Thornton - bruised foot
Nashville Predators
Jason Arnott - groin
Atlanta Thrashers
Vitaly Vishnevski - groin
Steve Rucchin -groin
Buffalo Sabres
Daniel Breire - hip flexor
Carolina Hurricanes
Oleg Tverdovsky - groin
Chicago Blackhawks
Tuomo Ruutu - knee
Michal Handzus -shoulder
Mikael Holmqvist - groin
James Wisniewski - back
Dallas Stars
Eric Lindros - groin
Detroit Red Wings
Danny Markov - knee
Greg Johnson - heart (abnormal EKG)
Florida Panthers
Ville Peltonen - shoulder
Philadelphia Flyers
Antero Niittymaki - hip
Ummmm, does anyone stretch before they play hockey anymore? Come on guys! Either that or the NHL needs to look into getting some better trainers. This is ridiculous!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Carolina Hurricanes signed Brad Isbister to a one year deal worth $600,000. The contract is two way, which means if he is sent down to the minors the Hurricanes will only have to pay him $95,000 (not sure how this effects their salary cap, but I can only assume that it will free up $505,000 for the Canes). If Isbister puts up the numbers he did last season (6 goals, 17 assists) it is almost a certainty he will taking a bus trip upon the return of Cory Stillman, who had a monster season for the Hurricanes scoring 75 points (21 goals, 55 assists) and was an integral part of helping them win their first Stanley Cup (he scored 26 points 9 goals, and 17 assists, which was second best only to teammate Eric Staal).
Sabres re-sign Dmitri Kalinin
Lou Lamoriello should take some lessons from Buffalo GM Darcy Regier, who has had the most difficult task of holding onto his core team that blossomed last season and rode the momentum to the Eastern Conference Finals. The Buffalo Sabres have re-signed defenceman Dmitri Kalinin to a 2 year deal worth $4 million. Kalinin was unfortunately part of the IR parade of Buffalo defenceman that eventually derailed the train, but had a solid season and playoffs prior to breaking his foot in round 2 against Ottawa. Kalinin had 2 goals and 16 assist and was the team leader in plus / minus with a rating of +14.
The Sabres attention now turns to their star goalie and lone restricted free agent Ryan Miller. With over $5 million available under the $44 million salary cap the Buffalo Sabres are in a good position to keep the netminder within the fold for next season, and more than likely many to come.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
WOW! Talk about pre-draft blockbusters! The Florida Panthers have shipped goalie Roberto Luongo to Vancouver in exchange for power forward Todd Bertuzzi! Florida also traded Lukas Krajicek and their 2006 6th round pick and received Bryan Allen and goaltender Alexander Auld from Vancouver. A five player deal!
Luongo has been rumored to be on the block all season, and speculation really heated up this week when the L.A. Kings made a pitch for the goalie. The Canucks have been looking to dump Bertuzzi and his baggage for some time, and also were in dire need of #1 goalie (no offense Dan). Bertuzzi flourished under Keenan's eye in Vancouver and should fit in nicely with the Panthers, as well as playing in the East, he can remove himself from some of the controversy that follows him after his cheap shot on Steve Moore that ended the player's career.
I think this is a terrific trade for all parties. Vancouver gets a superior goaltender. Luongo gets traded to a potential contender. Bertuzzi gets a fresh start, and Florida gets a great power forward, if he can find his pre-lockout game again.
The only question is will Vancouver's GM Dave Nonis be able to sign Luongo to a long-term contract and make him the mainstay between the pipes. He can also move Dan Cloutier to free up salary cap room as well as fill other needs throughout his club.
Rod Brind'Amour signs a five year deal with the Hurricanes
Busy day. Selke Trophy, and Stanley Cup Winner Rod Brind'Amour just signed a five year deal with the Hurricanes worth $18 million. Not a bad way to wrap up the 2005-2006 campaign. The 35 year old centre will be in Red till he is 40 years old.
Pronger to be dealt today?
Rumors are abound that Chris Pronger of the Oilers has requested a trade. Kevin Lowe has called bravo sierra on this one, but even he can't deny the legs this story has. It started somewhere. I guess we'll find out later today.
2006 NHL Entry Draft
I can't really give you much on the draft, because unfortunatley, minor league hockey doesn't get it's due coverage here in Central Jersey (sometimes I feel the NHL doesn't here either, but that's a whole other story). TSN.ca has a terrific rundown on the top 30 picks, that I've been checking out. If you want to learn more about the draft and the potential players to be picked check this out. There is also a terrific breakdown by TSN Analyst Bob McKenzie, that you can check out here.
Here is the first round draft order:
1. St. Louis
2. Pittsburgh
3. Chicago
4. Washington
5. Boston
6. Columbus
7. N.Y. Islanders
8. Phoenix
9. Minnesota
10. Florida
11. Los Angeles
12. Atlanta
13. Toronto
14. Vancouver
15. Tampa Bay
16. Montreal
17. Minnesota (from Edmonton)
18. Colorado
19. Anaheim
20. San Jose
21. N.Y. Rangers
22. Philadelphia
23. Washington (from Nashville)
24. Buffalo
25. New Jersey
26. Calgary
27. Dallas
28. Ottawa
29. Detroit
30. St. Louis (from Carolina)
The 2006 NHL Entry Draft is tonight at 6 PM! See you there!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 I think everyone would have to agree that this years crop of playoff beards was very impressive. Players entering the playoffs for the first time seem to look forward to the experience of not shaving. Henrik Lundqvist of the New York Rangers was quoted as saying he couldn't wait to start growing his playoff beard (sadly for us Ranger fans he shaved his a week later). New comers and veterans alike put their best chin forward and truly gave us a parade of jaw fur we are not soon to forget.
Deciding on this year's Norris Trophy winner was difficult at first, but looking back to when I first noticed it, I realized this guy had it in the bag two weeks ago. This playoff beard was so thick that it looked like the gentleman sporting it, was actually wearing a bandana over his face. Lips seemed to be optional, and as I pointed out yesterday, he began losing parts of his equipment within his chin mullet. All this considered, my decision eventually became an easy one.
Please join me in congratulating Bret Hedican as this years 2006 Chuck Norris Trophy Winner!!
The NHL Awards ceremony is this evening so I've reposted the nominatees as well as my predictions.
Hart Memorial Trophy (League MVP)
Joe Thornton - San Jose
Jaromir Jagr - New York
Mikka Kiprusoff - Calgary
Playoff Beard Prediction: Jaromir Jagr. Without Jagr at the top of his game, the Rangers were a different team, this was clearly evident in the playoffs. Jagr helped resurrect the Rangers, and bring them to the playoffs for the first time in 7 seasons.
Lester B. Pearson Award (most outstanding player as voted by the NHL Players' Association)
Joe Thornton - San Jose
Jaromir Jagr - New York
Alexander Ovechkin - Washington
Playoff Beard Prediction: Alexander Ovechkin. I'm trying to get in the heads of the players here, but from what I've heard, the amount of admiration for this kid is overwhelming. I wouldn't be surprised to see him get the nod.
Vezina Trophy (Top Goaltender)
Mikka Kiprusoff - Calgary
Martin Brodeur - New Jersey
Henrik Lundqvist - New York
Playoff Beard Prediction: Mikka Kiprusoff. This guy must have had 20 shutouts this season and I think he was only scored on 3 or 4 times. Maybe 5. But no more than that.
James (The Other) Norris Memorial Trophy (Top Defenseman)
Nicklas Lidstrom - Detroit
Scott Niedermayer - Anaheim
Sergei Zubov - Dallas
Playoff Beard Prediction: Nicklas Lidstrom. I said this a few months ago, but I think it's time to rename this award the Lidstrom trophy.
Calder Trophy (Top Rookie)
Alexander Ovechkin - Washington
Dion Phaneuf - Calgary
Sidney Crosby - Pittsburgh
Playoff Beard Prediction: Alexander Ovechkin. See above.
Frank J. Selke Trophy (Top Defensive Forward)
Rod Brind'Amour - Carolina
Mike Fisher - Ottawa
Jere Lehtinen - Dallas
Playoff Beard Prediction: Rod Brind'Amour. This guy is a face off master, if you play that category in your fantasy leagues, grab this guy quick!
Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct)
Pavel Datsyuk - Detroit
Patrick Marleau - San Jose
Brad Richards - Tampa Bay
Playoff Beard Prediction: Who cares.
Jack Adams Award (Top coach)
Peter Laviolette - Carolina
Tom Renney - New York
Lindy Ruff - Buffalo
Playoff Beard Prediction:Tom Renney. I'm going homer here, but I gotta give the love to a guy who helped bring my Rangers to the promised land. Frankly, I would give this award to all three of these guys if I could. Whoever wins this, will be a good choice. I still think Lou Lamoreillo should be up for this as well.
What a year Peter Laviolette had huh? I still stand by my pick, but as I said, all of these coaches had amazing seasons behind the bench.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Congratulations to the Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes!
Wow! What a game! What a series! Game 7's rarely dissapoint and this one sure didn't. I'd like to congratulate both teams on an amazing playoffs and for helping to bring life back into this sport that was lost to us for a year. Thank you Edmonton, and Carolina you both did us proud!
Carolina need all 7 games to close this one out, and finally found their stride again after an embarrassing one sided game 6 loss in Edmonton. The Hurricanes took the Oilers game to them, and knocked them all over the ice. Cam Ward, was sensational (and was Captain Bosh's pick for the Conn Smythe by the way, click here if you don't believe me) and once again backstopped his team to yet another amazing win. The Hurricanes finished off the series with a 3-1 victory.
Nothing can be taken away from the Oilers. What a surprise, and what playoffs this team had. Led by Dwayne Roloson (he would have been my Conn Smythe pick for the Oilers, regardless of his injury shortened playoffs ) till Game 1 of the finals this team had championship written all over it. Kevin Lowe deserves a ton of credit for building a team within the new rules, and salary cap model that excelled beyond expectations. I only hope that he can keep the core together so they can make another run. Sign Samsonov, Pisani, and Roloson please!
Congratulations again to the Hurricanes and thank you for an amazing series. Thank Stanley hockey is back!
Tomorrow I will announce the finalists for the Chuck Norris Trophy and Wednesday we will announce the winner so keep checking back! Thanks for all the support!
Last night's scores:
Edmonton 1 Carolina 3 F
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Well, I guess Master Blaster does, or did rather. But tonight, in the spirit of possibly the worst movie sequel ever, two teams enter, and one team leaves. This is what hockey is all about! You couldn't have written a better script (neither could the producers of Mad Max3). A Game 7 Stanley Cup Final matchup! Get your Molson's on ice, and your beer pretzels at the ready.....your dots are about to be agitated!
Tonight's game:
Edmonton at Carolina 8:00 PM
Playoff Beard .com has received a lot of press over the last week, thanks mostly to the very generous Paul Newberry, who wrote an article about the playoff beard and our love for it. Thanks to him, we have lots of new visitors, who we welcome with open beards.
Some of my Playoff Beard regulars (Jeff from Detroit, Playoff Moustache from the Carolinas, and Wazz from Calgary) have suggested I repost the Playoff Beard Guide to Grading the Beard, to help familiarize you before the awarding of the Norris Trophy. The Norris Trophy as most of you know, is named after the father of the beard, the great Chuck Norris, and is given to the player with the best playoff beard.
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!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 "And I looked, and behold, a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Clay Aiken, and Carolina followed with him."
-From the Book of Norris
Doug Weight will not play tonight for the Carolina Hurricanes. He sustained an injury (to one or both shoulders) during game 5 when he was double-teamed on hit led by Raffi Snow Job Torres. This is a huge loss for Carolina. Weight has been a big contributor when they needed clutch plays, and his playoff beard is one of the best I've seen. The Hurricanes are leaving the door open for him to return in game 7, but I think they would prefer to close things out tonight.
Thus far, I haven't heard anything on Aaron Ward. He was also injured in game 5 but returned to the bench with Weight in the third. Ward did play a few more shifts in the third where as Weight did not. He played the Teppo Numminen role that night.
Even though the Oilers face elimination, I think the pressure has clearly shifted to the Hurricanes. Carolina will need to have all it's stars step up, especially Rod Brind'Amour to close this out tonight. Game 5 was terrific, so I expect a battle tonight. Game 6 should be amazing.
Playoff Beard Prediction: If you remember, I called Carolina Hurricanes in 6. Tonight's the night, and I stand by that prediction. It won't be easy, but the Hurricanes will take the trophy tonight. If they lose tonight however, then I was just kidding.
Do you think if they made Pierre McGuire's sin-bin half as big, he'd be twice as angry? I think there is a mathematical formula for that somewhere.
Tonight's game:
Carolina at Edmonton 8:00 PM
Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Cory, Cory, Cory. Buddy. My grandmother could have made a better pass than that, and the woman has been dead for 13 years. Cory Stillman's pass was picked off by Fernando Pisani just a few minutes into the overtime period, and he quickly skated in free on Cam Ward and roofed it into right corner to give the Edmonton Oilers the 4-3 win. The Oilers now trail the Hurricanes 3-2 in the series as the return home to Edmonton for game 6 (which is where I said the Canes would finish the series, sorry PM) on Saturday night.
This had to be the best game I've seen in the playoffs so far. The Oilers were playing with desperation, and the Hurricanes seemed like they were as well. The Hurricanes were able to convert 2 powerplay opportunities, Eric Staal was fantastic scoring two goals (how great is his post-goal dance? the kid looks like he loses all ability to skate), Mike Peca was brutal, hitting just about everyone (he still shouldn't have trimmed the playoff beard)
Carolina began to lose players, as Aaron Ward left in the second period and Doug Weight got crushed on a sandwich hit that was led by Raffi 'Snow Job' Torres early in the third which forced him to leave for part of the period. Both returned in the third, which seemed to spark the Hurricanes (I wonder if this was in an effort to close the series out, because this team appears to be battered and fear losing a long to attrition). If not for Stillman's turnover (granted he was being harassed by Snow Job Torres, but I think he still could have put a little more on that pass.....and another thing....how often did we get yelled at by our coaches about long passes over the middle in our own zone?) I think the Hurricanes would have won last night. Stillman's pass actually was the breakout before a powerplay that could have put the icing on the cake.....or the shaving cream on the chin. For more on the game click here.
When playoff beards collide:
Snow Job Torres and Mark Recchi were slamming into each other all night. There appeared to be some sort of grudge match going on between the two. These two guys shared such intimate contact last night that I think one of them owes the other a dinner this evening. Snow Job appeared to get the best of Recchi late in the game, as their last meeting, Recchi's gloves were knocked off (and I think he lost some playoff beard as well) as he was pancaked to the ice.
I'd like to thank Paul Newberry from the Associated Press for making mention of Playoff Beard .com. You can read his article by clicking here.
I'd like to welcome all of you newcomers to the land of the unshaven. Please feel free to join in the discussion. To help familiarize yourself with Playoff Beard .com, I'd like to refer you all to Our Playoff Beard . com's Guide to Grading the Beard. Thanks for dropping by and for all of the support!
Playoff Leaders:
Eric Staal 9 goals 18 assists 27 points
Cory Stillman 9 goals 16 assists 25 points 1 really bad turnover
Chris Pronger 5 goals 16 assists 21 points
Daniel Briere 8 goals 11 assists 19 points
Chris Drury 9 goals 9 assists 18 points
Rod Brind'Amour 12 goals 6 assists 18 points
Shawn Horcoff 6 goals 12 assists 18 points
Last night's score:
Edmonton 4 Carolina 3 F (OT)
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Game 5. The Carolina Hurricanes have 3 wins, the Oilers 1. The Hurricanes could hoist the Cup tonight at home in a very loud RBC Center in Raleigh. It would be great if the Oilers could extend the series, and take it to 7, but I don't think it's going to happen. I do think there will extra pressure on the Hurricanes tonight to close it out, even though the Oilers are facing elimination. I think Playoff Moustache may have called this one on the money. Carolina in 5.
In case the Hurricanes do win tonight, we need to talk Conn Smythe. A lot of people are talking Rod Brind'Amour (who appears to be the front runner), and TSN.ca is calling out for Cory Stillman to receive some recognition. You could also make a case for young super star Eric Staal who along with Stillman share the playoff points lead with 24. My call however, is Cam Ward. This 22 year old has solidified a terrific Hurricanes defense and provided must needed saves when the Hurricanes weren't playing their best for periods. He's stolen several games throughout the playoffs, and has even responded well when yanked during the Buffalo series. Playoff Beard Prediction: Cam Ward - Conn Smythe Trophy.
Tonight's game:
Edmonton at Carolina 8:00 PM
Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Mark Recchi and his fabulous playoff beard scored the game winner last night in Edmonton, to give the Carolina Hurricanes the 2-1 victory, and a 3-1 series lead. The Hurricanes can take it all Wednesday night when they return home to Raleigh.
Another tight game, and a very exciting one. Even though the score was low, the chances and opportunities were there. These teams really match up well with one another, and I think game 3 and 4 were examples of what I was expecting when they met. I think Jussi Markkenen has done an outstanding job filling in for Dwayne Roloson, unfortunately he hasn't been able to get the goal support needed to secure the wins. Cam Ward has been a wall for the Hurricanes, but he also benefits from a team that really shields him from the puck...very similiar to the 90's Devils and Martin Brodeur. For more on the game visit TSN.ca.
I would love to see this series go 7, but I don't think that's gonna happen. The Hurricanes really could have swept, as I think they were in a great position to win game 3, but they return home tomorrow with a ridiculous amount of momentum, and Bill Clement. What else do you need? The desire to win the Stanley Cup at home has got to be overwhelming. Could be added pressure for the Hurricanes, but I still think they will wrap things up Wednesday. Moustache's 5 game prediction is looking pretty sweet right now!
 Oh and by the way I found a photo of Raffi Torres....or perhaps it's Mike Commodore? We may never know unless he removes that handsome parka he's sporting! My apologies for not putting Commodore in the playoff beard watch list yesterday......my goodness is that guy woooly!
Last night's score:
Carolina 2 Edmonton 1 F
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Cam Ward. If there is one thing you will remember. It is Cam Ward. This kid is good. He stopped 25 shots last night and to help the Hurricanes to a 5-0 shutout win over the Oilers, and take a 2-0 series lead in the Stanley Cup Finals. Was it all him? Certainly not. But it started in net and went out from there. I can't remember seeing a more selfless group of players in my life. Clogging the passing lanes, and laying down in front of shots (the number of blocked shots last night by Hurricane players was ridiculous, Glen Wesley has to be playing on broken legs right now) the Oilers were unable to establish any presence on the power play, and the shots that did get through, were quickly absorbed by Ward.
The Oilers didn't play a bad game. Actually I thought they played really well. So did Jussi Markkanen, who won the Oilers goaltending sweepstakes and started game 2. Unfortunately the Oilers didn't play mistake free hockey, and a couple of turnovers and undisciplined penalties were quickly converted by a Hurricanes offence that was clearly on fire. The Hurricanes powerplay was superb last night, converting 3 of their odd man opportunities.
Late in the game, obviously frustrated, the Oilers began to play more physical. I guess this was an attempt by MacTavish to wear down the Hurricanes for the later games, but really all it did was create a parade of Oilers players to the penalty box and provide more practice for the Hurricanes on their power play. In theory I guess it was a good idea, but in execution it was lacking.
The Hurricanes take their show on the road to Edmonton Saturday night for game 3. The Oilers have been down two games before, against the Sharks, so this isn't new ground for them. Perhaps some home ice will help get them in gear. The layoff blues should be over by now, so I would look for them to respond. For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
Last night also marked the final broadcast of OLN's coverage of the NHL. It also marked the last time as hockey fans we will see the channel called OLN. Moving to it's new name Versus (which I actually think is kind of cool) in the fall, they will continue to cover the NHL. I want to thank OLN for a job well done. They took on a product that nobody really wanted, and embraced it. They adapted throughout the season to provide better coverage (remember when the scoreboard was on the bottom of the screen?) every game. In the tent with Clement was actually great, (now that he is separated from his heterosexual lifemate Gary Thorne) along with his co-hosts Keith Jones (who I think is terrific), Brian Engblom, and occassional guest analysts Rick DiPietro and Mike Knuble. All in all it was a great season.
The only drawback is distribution of this channel. The NHL really has to lead the charge to get Versus (OLN) available to wider audience. Other than that, carry on.
Last night's scores:
Edmonton 0 Carolina 5 F
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The two best team in the East, certainly gave us the best playoff series to date. It's a shame only one of the two could advance, but if you have to go out, this is the way to do it. The Hurricanes defeated the Sabres 4-2 and won the series 4 games to 3. Losing 2-1 headed into the third period, Doug Weight tied the game, to make it 2-2. Following a delay of game penalty, Rod Brind'Amour pounced on a loose puck to score the eventual game winner. Justin Williams later added an insurance goal and the Hurricanes are onto face the Oilers.
Buffalo has nothing to be ashamed of. What an amazing run. With a depleted lineup they still managed to stretch this series to 7 games and look at who they beat! Ottawa and Philly! Ottawa was everyone's pick to be in the finals, and Philly was certainly a favorite after picking up Forsberg. Way to go Buffalo, great season!
What I find ironic is that Buffalo lost the game on a Delay of game penalty. All season long, I heard people bitching and moaning about the call (an automatic 2 minute penalty will be assessed to any player who deliberately, or inadvertantly shoots the puck into the stands) and even remember hearing that this was gonna cost a team in an important game in the playoffs. It breaks my heart that it had to be Buffalo. After they got hosed on the Brett Hull call 6 years ago, they get screwed again. The funny thing is that they did away with the crease rule after that season, and I'm willing to bet that the 'delay of game' penalty will be removed, or altered, perhaps to ref's discretion rather than an automatic.
Thanks for a great series guys!
Carolina and Edmonton face off Monday night at 8:00 in Raleigh. I'm looking forward to another great series, as I'm sure you all are!
Last night's scores:
Buffalo 2 Carolina 4 F
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Hurricanes and Sabres face off for what could be the final time tonight. Carolina leads the series 3-2 and could finish off the Sabres and head to the Stanley Cup Finals for the second time in 4 years (I think it's been 4 years....against Detroit) and meet the Edmonton Oilers. However, I said this series would go 7 and be won by Buffalo, so tonight's game, I expect the boys from Western New York to do me proud and keep hope alive!
Laviolette is either a madman or a genius, but he is getting the very best from both of his goaltenders. Tonight will see Cam Ward between the pipes, the same man who was yanked and benched just 2 games ago. However his stellar performance may have been the difference between the Hurricanes being up 3-2 rather than being down 3-2 in the series.
My fellow 'PlayoffBeardians' have been bringing up some terrific points lately. The one comment I think that needs to be addressed was by Scotty, regarding Edmonton and the long layoff. I think it's going to hurt them. The one thing this team hasn't had is rest, and time to think. If the Sabres Hurricanes series goes 7 games, I suspect the Oilers will be very sluggish in the first game (and perhaps the second), much like Colorado, New Jersey, and Anaheim were.
I'd also like to give OLN some recognition. I think they've been doing a pretty damn good job on covering the NHL playoffs. They've also really embraced hockey. The hockey specials they've been broadcasting before and after the games have been terrific! I actually don't mind Bill Clement anymore either, and enjoy him as moderator between the periods (he and Gary Thorne used to make my ears bleed during their ESPN in game commentary). My only hope is that more people will be able to get the channel. I have a few friends that haven't seen most of the games, (except for the Saturday afternoon games on NBC) because OLN isn't part of their cable package. Other than that, keep it up!
Tonight's game:
Carolina at Buffalo 7:30 PM
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Two games after being replaced by Martin Gerber, Cam Ward found himself in a familiar position....coming in for relief again. This time it was possibly his biggest game. Gerber allowed 3 goals on 11 shots, and was yanked early in the second after surrendering the third goal on a breakaway to Lyndman. Ward came back in and stopped all 15 shots he faced, and allowed the Hurricanes to mount a comeback, to tie the game, and carry the team to OT.
Overtime. Cory Stillman scored on a powerplay goal, 8 minutes into the OT period to give the Hurricanes the 4-3 win, and 3-2 series lead. The Hurricanes can finish off the Sabres in Buffalo on Tuesday night. For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
How amazing is Eric Staal? What a season this kid has had. After last night's game, Staal had another assist which made his playoff point scoring streak 15 games. I'm happy to see that he has carried his amazing regular season play into the post season. Carolina has got a star on their hands.
Last night's score:
Buffalo 3 Carolina 4 F (OT)
Playoff Leaders:
Eric Staal 7 goals 13 assists 20 points
Daniel Briere 7 goals 10 assists 17 points
Chris Drury 9 goals 8 assists 17 points
Shawn Horcoff 5 goals 12 assists 17 points
Chriss Pronger 4 goals 13 assists 17 points
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
And the puns just keep on coming! Ray Whitney had another multi goal playoff performance and helped the Carolina Hurricanes to a 4-3 win and a 1-1 series tie. The Hurricanes looked sharp last night, and very fast. The Sabres however still managed to keep the game tight, by capitalizing on their powerplay opportunities 3 times. The Sabres really have a knack for weathering storms and taking advantage of their opponents errors, and finishing. Look at what they did to Ottawa! For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
Did anyone see that save by Glen Wesley? That may have saved the game for the Hurricanes last night.
Last night's scores:
Buffalo 3 Carolina 4 F
Tonight's game:
Anaheim at Edmonton 8:00 PM
Enjoy the game!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
As usual there was a ton of action before 3PM yesterday. Perhaps more than expected, due to the new CBA and salary cap restrictions.
The Edmonton Oilers, were among the busiest. They got their number 1 goalie in Dwayne Roloson (although he did little to help against the Sharks last night) and very fast winger in Sergei Samsonov. If he can stay injury free and fullfill some of his potential then Kevin Lowe did a terrific job yesterday.
The Vancouver Canucks were hemorraging defenseman with injuries to Jovanoski, Salo, and Ohlund, so they did a great job in filling that need. Vancouver was probably the busiest team during the last 24 hours acquiring defencemen Ketih Carney, Sean Brown and Eric Weinrich, as well as a support goaltender in Mika Noronen. They definitely addressed their issues.
The Carolina Hurricanes were unfortunately forced to make a deadline move because of a sever and regular season ending injury to star winger Erik Cole. Otherwise I believe they would have stood their ground. However, all things being equal, they went out and acquired Mark Recchi from the Pens. He's definitely not the player that Cole is, but will provide solid second line support.
I absolutely love what the Rangers did. They had a serious hole on the powerplay, and needed a solid puck moving defenceman, and one who could quarterback the powerplay. The Rangers got that and more in Sandis Ozolinsh.
Mike Milbury. Once again you have dismantled and destroyed another team. Well done sir. At least you are consistent. Islander fans, I'm sorry, I really think your team could have made a push for the playoffs. Be thankful that this is the last season Milbury will be driving the train.
We're in the final stretch people....prepare to toss those razors away....the beard is almost upon us.
Last night's scores:
Montreal 3 Boston 0 F
Tampa Bay 5 Buffalo 8 F
Phoenix 4 Columbus 5 F
Los Angeles 3 Detroit 7 F
Colorado 2 Chicago 1 F
Dallas 0 Calgary 1 F
Nashville 3 Vancouver 2 F (OT)
Edmonton 2 San Jose 5 F
Game of the night:
New Jersey at Washington 7:00 PM
Just watch Ovechkin. He has sublime buttocks....seriously this kid rocks. Get used to hearing his name.
Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Carolina Hurricanes have acquired Mark Recchi from Pittsburgh for forwards Niklas Nordgren and Krys Kolanos and a 2007 2nd round pick.
The Vancouver Canucks have acquired defenceman Keith Carney from Anaheim for a draft pick and prospect to be named.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Bad news for the Carolina Hurricanes....their star winger Erik Cole suffered a compression fracture in his neck Saturday in a win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. Cole was hit from behind by defenceman Brooks Orpik. Cole will miss at least the remainder of this season. For more on this story check out TSN.ca.
Last night's scores:
Columbus 3 Anaheim 2 F (SO)
Nashville 2 Edmonton 3 F (OT)
Dallas 7 Chicago 2 F
Colorado 3 Minnesota 5 F
St. Louis 4 Vancouver 1 F
Game of the night:
Carolina at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Even with the injury to Cole, the Hurricanes are still stacked offensively, with players like Staal, Weight, Brind'Amour and Ward. This also an East Coast matchup of two of the conferences best. The Hurricans are first in the East (as well as the NHL) and the Rangers are in third (5th in the NHL). Lundqvist should return in net for the Rangers tonite as well. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Even
WOW! Team Switzerland has been getting outstanding goaltending. Martin Gerber just finished a 49 save performance to upset Team Canada 2-0. Paul DiPietro had both goals for Team Switzerland. The Swiss Team has no upset two favorites in the Olympic Tournament, the first being the Czech Republic.
There was some controversy in the game, with an apparent goal by Rick Nash being dissallowed (Gerber's glove was definitely driven behind the line, and it should have been a goal), but Canada was stopped the rest of the way, by Martin Gerber. He has continued his excellent play that has helped the Carolina Hurricanes to first in the East.
Sweden vs. Latvia IN PROGRESS
Sweden coming off an old school whooping at the hands of Team Russia is rebounding nicely against Latvia. Currently leading in the second period 5-0 Team Sweden has been powered on goals by Samuel Pahlsson, Nicklas Lidstrom, Daniel Alfredsson, Per Johan Axelsson, and Henrik Zetterberg. Peter Forsberg declared himself fit to play and obviously wasn't kidding as his return has sparked his team. Forsberg has 2 assists in the game thus far. More to come!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The strong get stronger....The Carolina Hurricanes are really going for it this year!
Just reported by TSN, Doug Weight the St. Louis Blues leading scorer with 44 points and Erkki Rajamaki are headed to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for three draft picks and three players.
Rumors were abound that Weight would be headed to Ottawa or Vancouver, and would have to waive his no-trade clause to be dealt. He obviously felt, along with everyone else, that the Hurricanes are headed in the right direction this season.....if they weren't a favorite to win the Cup before today, they are now. Playoff Beard Alert: Doug has shown potential in the past, and now that he is on a team that will make the playoffs this year....its roast duck with mango salsa time!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
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