Atlantic Division

• If there wasn’t a high opinion of the Devils to start the season, there definitely is a high opinion of the group now, writes Mark Everson.  Zach Parise broke out of his slump because of the improved play of Travis Zajac, says coach Jacques Lemaire.
• Dwayne Roloson was the difference last night for the Islanders and Rob Schremp used his shootout skills to win the game, as the Isles beat the struggling Jackets.  Jeff Tambellini was given a shot in the lineup last night.
• With Vinny Prospal injured, Chris Higgins will be given every opportunity to replace him on the top line.  Ryan Callahan is hoping to get a call from Team USA on Friday.
• The Flyers will only start focusing on the Winter Classic after tonight’s game against the rival Rangers.  Some worry that weather will be an issue on Friday.  Even though the Flyers haven’t really defeated a quality team lately, the team will take any wins it can get.
• The Penguins uncharacteristically blew a 3-0 lead to the Sabres and Dan Bylsma thinks his team lost the game in the first ten minutes of the third period.  “I honestly thought we deserved a better fate tonight,” said Sidney Crosby afterwards.  Today is the day that Jordan Staal will find out if he makes Team Canada.

Northeast Division

• Kevin Paul Dupont talks about how big of a thrill it would be for Tim Thomas to be named to the U.S. Olympic Team.  Claude Julien wants his players to improve their starts.  Tonight the Bruins face the Thrashers, then they can focus on the Winter Classic.
• Drew Stafford was benched the other night, but last night he proved why the team needs his services.  Here are some Sabres notes courtesy of Mike Harrington.
• The Habs are healthier and are starting to gain some confidence heading into the second half of the season, writes Pat Hickey.
• “I’m pretty excited, obviously. It would be a dream come true to be named,” said Mike Fisher about possibly being named to Team Canada today.  These Ottawa Sun writers think Fisher will be there.  In other Sens news, Nick Foligno is expected to return from injury today.
• Damien Cox of the Toronto Star doesn’t expect many surprises from Steve Yzerman this afternoon.  In Leafs news, Viktor Stalberg may return to the lineup tonight.  Tonight’s game against the Leafs is Pat Quinn’s first since being fired a few years ago.  “For lack of a better word, they are retarded. They are from the dark ages,” said Ron Wilson when asked about pre-game skates.

Southeast Division

• The Thrashers are in the midst of their longest losing streak of the season, as they face the Bruins tonight.
• Team Canada take notice, Eric Staal has looked good on right wing as of late, writes Chip Alexander.
• Pete DeBoer likes what he sees from young Panthers defenseman Jay Garrison.
• Tampa Bay is finally receiving the production the organization expected from Alex Tanguay.  Coincidentally, or probably not, Vincent Lecavalier has also picked it up as of late.
• Jason Chimera had to be pretty excited to start out in Washington on a line with Alex Semin and Nicklas Backstrom.  It sure beats playing with Sammy Pahlsson and Freddy Modin.

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Atlantic Diviision

• Zach Parise snapped his twelve-game goalless streak in style last night by scoring two goals, including the game-winner, to lead the Devils to a 3-2 victory over Atlanta.  More good news for the Devils, as David Clarkson finally returned to the team’s lineup on Monday.
• The Islanders are hoping to have Rick DiPietro play a game in the AHL this weekend, writes Katie Strang.  Kyle Okposo is holding his breath that he will be on Team USA for the upcoming Olympics.
• The Rangers have lost Vaclav Prospal for up to three weeks with a knee injury.
• Michael Leighton has played well enough in Philadelphia to warrant starting consideration when Brian Boucher returns from a finger injury.  So far, Leighton has a .932 save percentage.
• The Penguins aren’t overly concerned with the lack of offense lately from their three offensive defensemen, writes Shelly Anderson.  Looking ahead, the Penguins have a difficult road trip on their hands.  Will Bill Guerin make Team USA?

Northeast Division

• “We played one period,” said Marc Savard about the Bruins’ loss to Tampa Bay last night.  By the sounds of it, Milan Lucic may not be back for the Winter Classic.
• Both Derek Roy and Patrick Kaleta will miss tonight’s game for Buffalo against Pittsburgh.
• We all know history means something in Montreal, so historians will enjoy the fact that Mike Cammalleri scored the franchise’s 2000th goal.  So much for Montreal’s five-game winning streak, as the Senators ended that last night.
• Chris Neil is fresh off returning from injury and he was the key to the Senators’ win over Montreal last night.
• Could Ian White be the future Maple Leafs captain?  One thing is for certain, White has entrenched himself among the team’s top-four defensemen.

Southeast Division

• If only the Hurricanes played they did last night all season long.
• Peter DeBoer wants his team to focus on a balanced attack moving forward.  It will help to have Cory Stillman back helping his squad.
• The Lightning took care of business last night against the Bruins.
• Here are some details on the Capitals’ trade of Chris Clark and Milan Jurcina for Jason Chimera.  The Capitals followed that trade with just an awful first period, which ended up costing them the game against Carolina.

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Atlantic Division

• Jacques Lemaire attributed last night’s loss to Washington to his team’s lack of practice.  On the injury front, it appears David Clarkson will return to the New Jersey lineup in the next game or two.
• The Islanders beat the Rangers on the back of Kyle Okposo’s first goal in 18 games, writes Katie Strang.  Arthur Staple of Newsday has some suggetsions for the Islanders and Rangers.
• The crowd at MSG was lively, especially with the play of Sean Avery, but the Rangers could only record one point after an overtime loss to the Islanders.  On the bright side, the Rangers got a late goal from Brandon Dubinsky or there wouldn’t have been one point at all.  Larry Brooks thinks the Rangers lack size and strength.  Meanwhile, Brooks gives out his decade awards.
• Last night’s win in Carolina marked the Flyers first back-to-back wins in five weeks, writes Sam Carchidi.  Ryan Parent sat out last night with back spasms.  If you look at the Flyers lines one through four, there is a lot of potential there.
• The Penguins are a successful bunch on the ice and they give back to the community off the ice too.  The most likable part of Marc-Andre Fleury is that he doesn’t let his success change him as a person.

Northeast Division

• Everyone wants to talk about the Winter Classic, but the Bruins know they have some work to do before January 1st.  Here is the NBC perspective on the Winter Classic.  Dan Shaughnessy tells us that Fenway Park has been host to other significant non-baseball events.
• The Sabres fans were giving it to them at the end of the first period alst night and they know they can blame their horrible first period for last night’s loss.  Lindy Ruff is not ecstatic that his team has to travel and then play tonight at St. Louis but acknowledges that the Blues have the same task in front of them.  In his Inside the NHL piece, Bucky Gleason talks about the NHL’s most overpaid players, among other things.
• With the way Jaroslav Halak is playing, maybe the Habs should consider keeping himself in the fold, as the Habs beat the Leafs 3-2 in overtime.
• Word broke on Saturday that Daniel Alfredsson will be out up to 4-6 weeks so the Senators players played as a group to make up for his absence and defeated the Sabres 3-2 in a shootout.  “We showed a lot of character. We showed a lot of mental toughness,” said Cory Clouston after last night’s victory.  Coach Clouston won’t let the Senators use injuries as an excuse.
• Sound familiar?  The Leafs got off to a bad start and lost in overtime, writes Paul Hunter of the Toronto Star.

Southeast Division

• The Thrashers are a great third period scoring team but that is good and bad, writes Chris Vivlamore.
• The Hurricanes lost last night but at least they had a spirited comeback which earned them a point in the standings, reports Chip Alexander.  Peter Laviolette wants his Flyers to play the type of game his Hurricanes teams played.  Not surprisingly, Paul Maurice is having similar issues to Peter Laviolette.
• Nobody expects Stephen Weiss to be on Canada’s Olympic Team but he is doing a good job of making Team Canada ‘s brass take notice of him.
• The Lightning was very aggressive last night and it paid off.  Kurtis Foster said his season turned around when he was moved to forward.  Here is the latest on the Lightning’s injury situation.
• “I just beat the best goalie in the world. It’s amazing. I used to watch him on TV, so it’s something special,” said Captials rookie Michal Neuvirth.

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• Martin Brodeur has been chosen MVP of the decade by NHL.com.  The Devils hoped to have Paul Martin back in the lineup soon, but the Minnesota native had a setback and will now be sidelined for another month.
• Is there progress being made on keeping the Islanders on Long Island?  On the ice, the Islanders took care of business against the Maple Leafs on Wednesday before the Christmas break.
• The Rangers looked like a real team last night, one that could actually be a threat in the Eastern Conference, writes Larry Brooks.  After the Christmas roster freeze, the Rangers may look to add a seventh defenseman.
• Peter Laviollete is happy to see the Christmas break so he can go see his family in Florida.  When the Flyers saw Blair Betts return to the lineup, the team didn’t expect much offense but that’s exactly what Betts provided in the team’s important win at Tampa Bay last night.  Scott Hartnell and Jeff Carter both refute an internet rumor and confirm that they are the best of friends.
• Evgeni Malkin’s slump is all over, after the Russian center tallied a hat trick.  Prior to last night’s game, Penguins coach Dan Bylsma switched Crosby and Malkin’s linemates.  Mark Eaton missed last night’s game and is expected to be out of action for about one week.

Northeast Division

• Tim Thomas sent a message against Ilya Kovalchuk last night and allowed the Bruins to regain momentum and defeat Atlanta 6-4.  One thing is for certain, Bruins coach Claude Julien doesn’t question the effort or work ethic of his fourth line.  Last night’s game was an interesting study in contrasting styles.
• “We didn’t go to work. You play like that, you’ve got no chance of winning in this league,” said Sabres coach Lindy Ruff after last night’s loss to Washington.
• The Habs have given up at least 40 shots in their last three games but Jaroslav Halak has been a rock and the team is on a three-game winning streak.  Needless to say, Jaroslav Halak is looking forward to some holiday rest.
• The Senators got blown out by Pittsburgh and, more importantly, lost Daniel Alfredsson for “a few weeks” to a shoulder injury.  The score may say differently, but Pascal Leclaire actually wasn’t bad last night.
• “I’m not producing, I’m not playing well, I have to be better,” said Phil Kessel after the Leafs’ loss to the Islanders.  Yesterday was a dream come true for Mikhail Grabovski, as he was named to the Belarus Olympic team.  For all the momentum the Leafs have gathered, the team sits 14th in the Eastern Conference after last night’s tilt.

Southeast Division

• The Thrashers lost to the Bruins last night.  (Note: AP article)
• Eric Staal admits it will be hard to go home for the holidays and not wonder where it all went wrong for the Hurricanes this season.
• The Panthers had hoped to have Cory Stillman in the lineup in a couple days but now New Year’s Eve seems like his likely return date.  Without Stillman, the Panthers fell to the Rangers 4-1 last night, recaps Steve Gorten.
• Rookie James Wright was made a healthy scratch for the first time last night by coach Rick Tocchet.  Zenon Konopka went off last night and said his team is not passionate enough.
• This Nicklas Backstrom can not only pass, but he can score too, writes Corey Masisak.

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The Morning Papers will be on a two-day break for the Christmas Holiday and will return on Sunday morning.

Atlantic Division

• Everybody was focusing on Martin Brodeur’s shutout record, and rightfully so, but the Devils were also very excited to have defated the Penguins for the third time this season–all at the Mellon Arena.
• Newsday has an update on Rick DiPietro’s injury status.
• Rangers veteran defenseman Michal Rozsival has improved his game as of late, writes Arthur Staple.  Another Rangers player has also slowly improved his game, and that’s Brandon Dubinsky.  Looks like John Tortorella has changed his system to become something closer to what the Rangers played under Tom Renney.
• The Flyers coaches and players are thinking a road trip may be just what the team needs to come together.  Mike Richards is hoping that Monday’s players-only meeting will affect the way the team plays.
• Evgeni Malkin has been struggling this season, but he wants people to know that his lack of production is not injury-related.  One Penguins player is injured, as Mark Eaton is expected to be out for a week.  The Penguins hate losing and generally show that by bouncing back after bad losses.

Northeast Division

• As reported yesterday, Milan Lucic wants to return by January 1st, but he will make sure he is 100%.  Marc Savard has been in a scoring slump lately and he thinks one of the reasons why is his lack of skating.
• Tim Connolly has stayed healthy this season, which is why his scoring slump is so unexpected.  Tyler Myers is okay, although he was given a maintenance day by the Sabres coaching staff on Tuesday.
• Marc-Andre Bergeron expects to play tonight for the Habs in what will be Benoit Pouliot’s Montreal debut.  Don’t tell the Habs, but the team hasn’t won a game on December 23rd since 1945.
• Both Pascal Leclaire and Chris Neil return to the Senators lineup tonight.  Bryan Murray was not happy about NHL officiating.
• Tomas Kaberle is one pace to be the first Leafs defenseman to ever lead the team in scoring.  With Viktor Stalberg injured, Rickard Wallin checks back in for the Leafs tonight.  Ron Wilson has an idea why the Leafs haven’t played well in overtime.

Southeast Division

• Tobias Enstrom is quiet by nature, but the young defenseman sits fourth in NHL defensemen scoring and has already set a Thrashers franchise mark on his career.
• With the Hurricanes season basically lost, the team is starting to work in its young players, writes Chip Alexander.
• The Panthers power play and penalty kill hasn’t been that good over the course of the season, but lately it has been one of the driving forces behind the team’s success.  An even bigger factor in the team’s success has been the play of Nathan Horton and Stephen Weiss.
• Lightning coach Rick Tocchet says it is more tiring to coach than it was to play.  GM Brian Lawton gives Tocchet all the control of his roster that he needs.
• The Capitals are doing some nice things for children in the community this holiday season, writes Corey Masisak.  Here is an interesting article on the NHL’s injury disclosure policy.

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• What else is there to say?  Martin Brodeur is the shutout king of the NHL.  “I don’t get nervous, but tonight I was a little nervous,” said Brodeur after last night’s record setting contest.  Zach Parise hasn’t scored in eleven games, but he did tally three assists last night.
• The Islanders continued their struggles last night with a poor third period, explains Katie Strang.  Apparently Rick DiPietro felt good after yesterday’s practice.
• It helped that Brandon Dubinsky played last night without his hard cast, writes Michael Obernauer.
• It used to be intimidating to play in Philadelphia, but they certainly are not right now, writes Sam Carchidi.  When the Flyers fans weren’t booing yesterday, they were chanting for the Philadelphia Eagles.  The Flyers keep talking but nothing is changing.
• “He’s a legendary goalie, and he proves it every year,” said Sidney Crosby about Martin Brodeur.  Marc-Andre Fleury is no slouch either.  The New Jersey Devils have the Penguins’ number, writes Josh Yohe.  Now everyone of the starting six Penguins defensemen has missed time with injury, as Mark Eaton didn’t suit up last night.

Northeast Division

• Tim Thomas didn’t know he was that good against the Senators, but he doesn’t mind being told he has recorded ten wins in a row.  Who knew Shawn Thornton was so concerned about offense?  Speaking of offense, Marc Savard finally got on the board for the first time in six games.  Savard had a new linemate in Steve Begin for last night’s game.
• “We get geared up to play Toronto,” said Derek Roy after scoring the overtime winner against the Leafs at the ACC.  Thomas Vanek hates missing games but he missed second consecutive game last night with an abdominal injury.
• If Jaroslav Halak is being put on display for the rest of the league, then last night’s performance should fetch quite a return, writes Pat Hickey.
• Brian Elliot wasn’t the problem last night in probably his last game as Senators starter for a while, writes Bruce Garrioch.  Did you know that Daniel Alfredsson hasn’t scored a goal in a whopping twelve games?  Zdeno Chara doesn’t understand why fans in Ottawa boo him.
• “Those are pee wee mistakes. They can’t happen,” said Ron Wilson about the overtime winner by Derek Roy.  Viktor Stalberg is one of the Leafs’ only answers for Ryan Miller.  At least the Leafs were pretty good in their own zone, explains James Mirtle.  Dave Feschuk also noticed some positives.

Southeast Division

• “We did exactly what we wanted to do the entire game,” said Thrashers coach John Anderson after his team’s tough loss to the Habs.  Not good news for the Thrashers that contract negotiations with Ilya Kovalchuk have hit a snag.
• No news here, as the Hurricanes lost again last night, this time to the Rangers.
• Bryan McCabe took on Mike Richards and then the Panthers’ top line took care of the Flyers defeating the floundering team 4-1.  Peter DeBoer made sure he had a tough lineup last night.
• After it started so poorly, Tampa Bay ended its road trip on a good note, writes Damian Cristodero.  Rick Tocceht says last night’s game proves what the Bolts can do if his team sticks to the system.  Zenon Konopka is one tough cookie, but Rick Tocchet felt like he needed a break last night.
• Bruce Boudreau thinks the Capitals are being too fancy with the man-advantage.

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• With Paul Martin due to return after New Year’s, Mark Fraser may be playing well enough to stay in the lineup.  Colin Stephenson writes about Brian Rolston’s comeback season in New Jersey.
• If the Rangers are going to succeed this season, coach John Tortorella says they need Henrik Lundqvist to be that good.  Larry Brooks seems convinced that Wade Redden is being put back into the Rangers’ lineup in order to prove himself and thus keep himself out of the AHL.
• Frank Seravalli knows who isn’t being traded from the Flyers roster.  Sam Carchidi documents the team’s awful scoring slump.
• Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette explains to readers why Brooks Orpik and Sergei Gonchar are such a good defense combination.  Jordan Staal admits tonight is a big game for the Penguins.

Northeast Division

• In Boston, Dennis Wideman is on the cusp of returning to the lineup.  Meantime, Derek Morris is questionable for tonight’s tilt.  Let’s be straight, the Bruins’ highly-paid forwards have not gotten the job done as of late.
• Lindy Ruff understands that one of the biggest problems with the Olympic schedule is the lack of practice time this season.
• The Habs spent an extra day in Long Island after the team’s plane decided not to take off due to the snow and high winds, writes Pat Hickey.  Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette wonders how good Andrei Markov can be when fully healthy.
• Mike Brodeur may be getting consideration for the start tonight in Ottawa–however, coach Cory Clouston never reveals his starting goaltender until the day of the game.  Erik Karlsson is starting to show progress for the Senators, writes Allen Panzeri.  Is Mike Fisher engaged?
• The Leafs unfortunately have to face Ryan Miller again tonight–the one player that has been a real thorn in their side.  Ron Wilson has taken notice of Miller’s performance, especially with this being an Olympic year.  Chris Zelkovich takes Mike Milbury to task for his Hockey Night in Canada comments.

Southeast Division

• The Thrashers can score, but they are last in the NHL in shots allowed per game, writes Chris Vivlamore.
• Eric Staal badly wants to play on the Canadian Olympic team this February in Vancouver.
• Tonight is the first time Mike Richards will face the Panthers since he injured David Booth on October 24th.
• “You hate to use the words do or die, but there are games that, as a player, you really look to dig deep,” said Rick Tocchet about tonight’s game at the Islanders.  Tocchet is hoping a six-goal outburst last game will open the floodgates.
• Quintin Lang is tough and his toughness makes him one of the fan favorites in DC.

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• It has been one of those years for New Jersey, as they stormed back after Martin Brodeur was pulled to hang the loss on Atlanta.  Looks like Jacques Lemaire’s line changes worked out quite well.
• Due to a storm in the New York area, the Islanders had under 8,000 fans at last night’s game and the Habs fans outnumbered the Islanders fans.  Martin Biron isn’t playing much anymore for the Islanders.  Meanwhile, Rick DiPietro is slated to practice on Monday.
• Henrik Lundqvist could probably use a benching but the Rangers’ best player was tremendous yesterday afternoon in leading the Blueshirts to a 2-1 win over the Flyers.  New York has sent Bobby Sanguinetti back to the AHL.  Also, the Rangers have recalled Matt Gilroy.  In his weekly Slap Shots column, Larry Brooks unveils his Team USA.
• Paul Holmgren says he will need to watch a few more games before deciding whether to make a big trade.  Chris Pronger critiques the Flyers’ overall performance.  Simon Gagne returned to the lineup yesterday and Peter Laviollete sure didn’t take it easy on him.
• Marc-Andre Fleury has been that good in the shootout this season.  It seems like the Penguins continue to face teams on the second half of back-to-back games.  Maxime Talbot was back in the lineup last night after being a healthy scratch.  This upcoming Olympics is going to be important for Russia, explains Sergei Gonchar.

Northeast Division

• “But I don’t think we tested him as much as we should have. That’s our fault,” said Claude Julien about his team’s offensive performance last night.  Johnny Boychuk is nice off the ice, but just ask Matt Stajan how he is off the ice.  In Kevin Paul Dupont’s weekly Hockey Notes, we get a taste of how good the Kings have been and he tells us that Marc Savard is still on Team Canada’s “watch list”.

• In his Inside the NHL column, Bucky Gleason talks head shots and John-Michael Liles’ availability.  The Sabres can blame their power play for last night’s loss.  Thomas Vanek didn’t play last night due to an abdominal injury.
• That Andrei Markov fellow is pretty important isn’t he, writes Pat Hickey.
• Mike Brodeur copied his relative Martin Brodeur, with a great NHL debut against the stiff Wild, writes Bruce Garrioch.  Garrioch has a ton of rumors in his weekly rumor column, including his report that the Flyers are trying to trade Jeff Carter and the Oilers are shopping Sheldon Souray, Lubomir Visnovsky and Shawn Horcoff.
• It is hard to keep track of the Leafs’ identity, but whatever they were doing last night worked.  Jonas Gustavsson was the story last night.

Southeast Division

• The Thrashers were outplayed by the Devils last night and the game wouldn’t have been close if not for Ondrej Pavelec.
• The Hurricanes actually pulled out a victory last night over the Panthers.
• Cory Stillman could return to the Panthers’ lineup on December 27, reports George Richards.  Florida lost last night because they brought no intensity for the first 30 minutes of last night’s contest.
• Damian Cristodero says the Lightning can learn from the Nashville Predators.  Alex Tanguay has the support of his family to turn it around.  With a storm in the Northeast, coordinating travel plans wasn’t easy for the Ligtning’s director of team services.
• Oilers fans came to see Alexander Ovechkin and didn’t go home disappointed, writes Corey Masisak.

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Atlantic Division

• The Devils weren’t very good last night but they found a way to win anyhow, explains Mark Everson.  Another day, another milestone for Martin Brodeur.
• After being dominated by Florida, the Islanders came back and worked hard to earn a 2-1 win at MSG last night, writes Katie Strang.
• After last night’s game, Arthur Staple of Newsday says it is time for the Rangers’ brass to make a move.  “There has to be something done, and we’ll see along the way here, before tomorrow night’s game, we’ll see where we go with it,” said John Tortorella after last night’s game.  Does John Tortorella talk tough but coach easy?
• It looks like both Paul Holmgren and Peter Laviolette don’t want to see a move in Philadelphia just yet.  In good news, Blair Betts returns to the Flyers’ lineup tonight in a move that should certainly help the team’s penalty kill.
• The Penguins’ young core actually enjoys playing in Philadelphia, although it was a bit of a shock early in their careers.  Bill Guerin will likely play tonight in Philadelphia.  One thing is for sure, the Penguins won’t let the Flyers push them around.

Northeast Division

• As David linked yesterday in On the Beat, the Bruins have lost Mark Stuart for 4-6 weeks with a broken sternum.  The Fenway Park ice rink is not being used by just NHL players.  Milan Lucic hopes to be skating by next week.
• Lindy Ruff knew the Sabres didn’t have much of a chance last night, as he got a call about seven of his players having food poisoning the night before the game.  The Sabres are hoping prospect Luke Adam comes back from the WJC with the same experience as Tyler Myers.
• Martin Brodeur didn’t break the shutout record against Montreal but he got the victory in a very boring 2-1 contest.  Habs prospect Louis Leblanc was one of the final cuts for the Canadian world junior team.
• The Senators played their first game since Jason Spezza’s injury and played a tremendous defensive game, writes Don Brennan.  Bryan Murray says he cannot bring a player to replace Spezza unless someone takes a contract off his hands.
• Damien Cox says the NHL has told the Leafs they do not have veto power.  Paul Hunter says that the Leafs made good fans last night, as they were standing around watching the Coyotes skate around them.  “In hindsight, I wished we had practiced on Tuesday,” said coach Ron Wilson post-game.

Southeast Division

• The Thrashers lost in overtime at Florida last night. (Associated Press piece)
• Ray Whitney made the game more interesting than the Hurricanes players would have liked but they ended up getting the win over Dallas.  The Hurricanes may open next season in Finland.
• The Panthers sure made it interesting last night, as they blew a three-goal lead but scored late to beat division-rival Atlanta.  David Booth was on the ice with teammates for the first time since being hit by Mike Richards on October 24th.
• It appears Vincent Lecavalier’s confidence is growing as he posts more points on the board.  “But I feel that I shouldn’t be the only one that has to sit out for the record we have, and the only one who has to pay the price,” said Alex Tanguay about made a healthy scratch by coach Rick Tocchet.
• Karl Alzner was happy to be called up to NHL, but especially because he gets to play in his home province this week.

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Atlantic Division

• Did you know the Devils have never won the President’s Trophy?  Johnny Oduya has been back in the lineup for five games now, but he’s yet to feel like he’s back in form.
• With a home and home coming up with the Rangers, the Islanders will be looking to put their blowout loss to Florida behind them.
• New Rangers backup netminder Chad Johnson may get the start for the second half of the Rangers’ back to back against the Islanders.  John Tortorella played his top-six forwards 75% of the time in the Rangers’ last game, writes Larry Brooks.
• Scott Hartnell got a harsh reception in Pittsburgh last night–as fans still hold a grudge against him for allegedly biting Kris Letang.  “Right now, we’re not playing with enough heart to have success,” said captain Mike Richards.  The Flyers have claimed backup netminder Michael Leighton off of waivers.  Lots of scouts were at last night’s contest.
• The Flyers’ physical play did not intimidate the Penguins, as Pittsburgh easily handled Philadelphia last night.  With players getting healthy and a lot of depth on the roster, Dan Bylsma has a lot of difficult decisions to make.  Meantime, Kris Letang is trying his best to forget about the alleged bite he received from Scott Hartnell.

Northeast Division

• Tuukka Rask has been solid from the outset this season, so comparisons to Hannu Toivinen do not fit at all.  The Bruins finally placed Milan Lucic on injured reserve yesterday.  Stephen Harris talks about Patrice Bergeron being under consideration for Team Canada.
• The Sabres just never seem to play well against Buffalo, although this time around they are facing the Senators at the right time.
• The Habs are looking to trade Jaroslav Halak and would love to get their hands on Claude Giroux, but don’t expect Philadelphia to give him up, writes Pat Hickey.  Apparently Andrei Markov will be ready to play before Christmas.
• Jason Spezza’s knee injury may keep him out for up to two months, writes Bruce Garrioch.  How are the Senators going to make up for this loss?  Mike Fisher is certainly on Team Canada’s radar for 2010.  The Senators have recalled Josh Hennessey to “replace” Spezza in the lineup.
• Damien Cox of the Toronto Star has the story from the Board of Governors meeting which centered around the Coyotes.  Paul Hunter lists the reasons for the Leafs’ turnaround this season.  Matt Stajan has started to earn more ice-time from coach Ron Wilson.

Southeast Division

• With the style John Anderson promotes, it is no surprise that the Thrashers lead the NHL in defensemen goals.
• Hurricanes defenseman Tim Gleason could have easily played in the 70s, writes Chip Alexander.  The Hurricanes may not be having the best season on ice, but that didn’t stop them from brightening up some the lives of some children yesterday.
• The Lightning didn’t play well last night but at least they played hard, according to Rick Tocchet.  As listed yesterday in On the Beat, coach Tocchet scratched Jeff Halpern and Alex Tanguay last night.
• Mike Green was injured in the Capitals’ easy win at Colorado last night but expects to play on Friday in Vancouver.

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Atlantic Division

• Martin Brodeur is at a point where he can just play a game and set a new record.
• Rick DiPietro may have had a setback in his rehabilitation and won’t start on Tuesday for Bridgeport of the AHL.  Lucky for the Islanders only about 10,000 fans were on hand last night to watch the team get embarrassed at home by Florida.
• The Rangers played well last night and outshot the Thrashers, but couldn’t secure the victory.  The return of Brandon Dubinsky did help, but not enough.  Larry Brooks talks about just how bad Marian Gaborik is in the shootout.  At least Sean Avery was efficient last night.
• The Flyers played a full 60 minutes last night and it resulted in a rare victory, explains Sam Carchidi.  Daniel Carcillo returned to the lineup last night and played on a line with Mike Richards and Jeff Carter.  People need to realize how tough Kimmo Timonen is.
• The Penguins unveiled a new top power play unit at practice yesterday in an attempt to improve their poor play with the man advantage.  Is Matt Cooke the most surprising name on the new unit?  Even with his hot start, Michael Rupp is starting to see his ice-time lessen with some of his teammates returning to full health.

Northeast Division

• “We don’t like to lose two in a row around here. That’s kind of been our slogan since Claude’s been here. This one stings,” said Marc Savard after the Bruins lost 3-1 to Philadelphia.  Dennis Wideman left yesterday’s game with an apparent injury.  Ray Bourque would love to have been able to play in a game like the Winter Classic.
• There was almost a massive clock controversy for the Sabres in Montreal last night, explains John Vogl.  Olympic talk was on the mind of many a reporter in Montreal yesterday.
• Yesterday’s Ottawa Toronto game wasn’t exactly the most exciting, writes Allen Panzeri.
• Penalties have been killing the Habs as of late and that includes last night’s game.  Jacques Martin thought the Habs out-chanced Buffalo and carried the play at even strength.  Forget the Habs, here is a pretty incredible story about one brave Quebec youngster who was hit from behind and is using his positive attitude to ensure that he will walk again.
• The Leafs won a game that featured two teams heading in different directions in the standings, writes James Mirtle.  Ron Wilson is proud of his team and not afraid to talk playoffs.  Meanwhile, during the Olympics Brian Burke expects to keep a low profile, as he knows he will be an enemy to his usual fans.  Expect the talk of a second NHL team in Toronto to be spoken about at the Board of Governors meeting, writes Dave Shoalts.

Southeast Division

• In Carolina, Rod Brind’Amour doesn’t get any more motivation from being scratched by coach Paul Maurice.
• Florida flat out dominated the Isles at Nassau Coliseum last night.  Nathan Horton quietly has 32 points this season.
• Just because the Lightning is struggling and cannot score, do not expect a panic move from management.
• With Michael Nylander in the minors, the Capitals have cap room but right now they do not expect to use all of that room.

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Atlantic Division

• Martin Brodeur is on the cusp of tying Patrick Roy’s games played record for goaltenders.  In really good news, the Devils hope to have Paul Martin back in the lineup by Christmas.
• Islanders coach Scott Gordon wants former first round pick Josh Bailey to start shooting the puck more often.
• Brandon Dubinsky will decide if he can return to the Rangers lineup after today’s morning skate.
• Peter Laviolette doesn’t want to see a trade, he just wants to see his players start to dig in.  “We have to stop looking at other people and hold yourself accountable and prepare for hockey games,” said Flyers captain Mike Richards.  At least the team is getting excited about the Winter Classic.
• Some of the Penguins are admittedly surprised by the Flyers’ struggles.  The Penguins are taking notice of the Steeelers’ struggles–as they know success is not guaranteed.

Northeast Division

• One of the reasons for the Bruins’ resurgence has been the team’s improved penalty kill, which coincided with the acquisition of Daniel Paille.  Milan Lucic could be back on the ice this week.
• After struggling in one-goal games for the past two seasons and just missing out on the playoffs both seasons, the Sabres are finally winning those games, writes John Vogl.
• Andrei Markov probably won’t return tonight but may return Wednesday or Thursday of this week.  Martin Brodeur plays against the Habs this week, and the childhood fan of the club would probably like nothing better than to set the shutout record against Montreal.
• Don Brennan is happy to report that both the Senators and Leafs are playing pretty well, so that means the Battle of Ontario is relevant again.  Compare this start to last season’s start and the Senators are having a very good season.
• Ron Wilson admits that he probably should have made Luke Schenn a healthy scratch earlier than he did.  “Hopefully, it makes me stronger,” said Schenn.  The Leafs are making headway, as the team is taking on Ron Wilson’s personality of paying attention to detail and working hard.

Southeast Division

• Colby Armstrong has continued to work hard in Atlanta and now the bounces are going his way.
• The Hurricanes have placed Michael Leighton on re-entry waivers.
• If both Shawn Matthias and Michal Repik can make a statement, they will stay up with the big club in Florida.
• Same story as usual out of Tampa, as the Lightning couldn’t score last night against Chicago.  At least Victor Hedman is beginning to become more comfortable joining the rush.
• By loaning Michael Nylander to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL, the Capitals have created some cap room.  Nylander just didn’t click with coach Bruce Boudreau.

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Atlantic Division

• Patrik Elias quietly surpassed the 300 goal mark in New Jersey’s win over the struggling Flyers last night.  It looks like Niclas Bergfors has become another Devils gem draft pick.
• Maybe Rick DiPietro should take his time returning this season and make sure he’s healthy long term.
• The Blueshirts are puzzled as to why they keep losing games.  The Rangers didn’t send Matt Gilroy down to Hartford to punish him, but instead to make him a better all-around defenseman.  The Rangers have to make sure they don’t bring Brandon Dubinsky back too early from injury due to desperation.  In his weekly Slap Shots column, Larry Brooks wonders why Jacques Lemaire hasn’t realized he needs to give Martin Brodeur rest?
• The Flyers are playing as if they want to see a coaching change even though one just happened, explains Sam Carchidi.  The Flyers have signed John Grahame to an AHL contract to increase the team’s depth in net.  For the time being though, Brian Boucher needs to play well.  Times are getting desperate in Philadelphia, writes Anthony San Filippo.
• At times, the Penguins have so much talent that they make scoring goals look easy and last night was an example of that, writes Dave Molinari.  Brent Johnson started last night because the Penguins don’t want to overplay Marc-Andre Fleury during the regular season.  Chris Kunitz returned to the lineup last night.

Northeast Division

• The Bruins played a very impressive road game last night, they just didn’t come out on top, explains Kevin Paul Dupont.  Claude Julien doesn’t mind the healthy goaltending competition in Boston.  In his weekly Hockey Notes, Brian Burke talks about his mindset when it comes to building Team USA for the Olympics.
• You know things are going well in Buffalo when Patrick Kaleta is scoring two goals in a game.  Lindy Ruff wants constant movement from his players on the man advantage.
• Jack Todd has a wonderful article wondering why Mike Cammalleri’s name isn’t being tossed around a candidate for Team Canada?  (Writer’s note: I agree.  In fact, I wrote the same thing on Twitter a week or two ago.)  Meanwhile, Red Fisher writes that the return of Andrei Markov could be the big difference between the Habs making the playoffs or missing out.
• Alexei Kovalev indeed does exist, as the super-talented winger scored a hat trick last night at home versus Carolina.  In his weekly rumors column, Bruce Garrioch discusses the availability of Peter Mueller, the possibility of Jeff Carter and Eric Staal moving and Tomas Vokoun being on the block.
• The Leafs have the Capitals’ number this season, writes David Shoalts.  Matt Stajan has a been a point-per-game player since Phil Kessel suited up for the Maple Leafs.

Southeast Division

• As goes Ilya Kovalchuk, so goes the Atlanta Thrashers, writes Chris Vivlamore.
• Hurricanes netminder Michael Leighton passed through waivers and has been assigned to the AHL.
• The Panthers once again took the Penguins to overtime tied at two and once again they lost 3-2 in overtime.
• After reading this article, you’ll wonder why Todd Fedoruk ever fights.  Somehow the Lightning is 26th in the NHL in goals per game.
• The Capitals had a couple built-in excuses for last night’s collapse, but it still shouldn’t have happened, writes Corey Masisak.

• The Devils can’t dwell on their loss to former teammate Scott Clemmensen, as they have the Philadelphia Flyers coming to town.  Sometimes you read a story and it makes you feel old.  Former Devil Viacheslav Fetisov playing a game for CSKA Moscow Friday at the age of 51, eleven years after he retired,  but what caught my attention was that his coach is Sergei Nemchinov. (seems like just yesterday he was playing for the Rangers).
• Pittsburgh’s Jordan Staal says that the Penguins don’t worry about scoring the first goal of the game as they play a style of game he describes as “unflappable”.  Star Evgeni Malkin is currently mired in a five- game goal drought which he attributes to passing too much.  Coach Dan Bylsma said Friday that left wing Chris Kunitz “is getting close” to returning from a lower-body injury that has cost him 13 straight games.
• Might the Rangers look to the past to solve their present woes?  Larry Brooks thinks the team should take a chance on former first round draft choice Dan Cloutier as a possible back-up to Henrik Lundqvist.
• Flyers’ backup goalie Brian Boucher has been in this position before (taking over for Nabokov in San Jose) and he relishes the opportunity for these added starts.
• The Islanders Rick DiPietro, who is on a conditioning stint with the team’s AHL squad, had stopped 13 of 14 shots over two periods tonight but was forced to leave in the 2nd period with minor “tightness”.

Northeast Division

• When Buffalo’s own born and raised Patrick Kane returned to the city he encountered a less than friendly “home crowd” as many fans showered him with jeers.  The Sabres trusted back-up goalie Patrick Lalime in a contest against a tough team and he came through for them, leading Buffalo to a 2-1 win.
• Ever since David Krejci returned from hip surgery, the Bruins seem to have found their game.
• He might need more maintenance days then he used to, but the Senators Daniel Alfredsson is still putting his younger teammates to shame with his excellent play.
• Jonas Gustavsson has rebounded from another heart scare with resolve and optimism, but his Maple Leafs teammate, Rickard Wallin, is anything but surprised.  Leafs coach Ron Wilson sure is a fan of Alexander Ovechkin’s style of play.

Southeast Division

• The risk/reward play of Mike Green continues as he made a costly error in the 3rd period which allowed the Hurricanes to tie the game, but he put home the OT goal to give the Capitals the victory.
• The Tampa Bay Lightning continue to struggle with the shootout, and last night’s loss in Colorado means they have dropped six of seven tiebreakers.
• The Panthers Scott Clemmensen expected it would be “weird” to take the ice Friday night and see the Devils logo on opposing jerseys.  Florida’s game tonight against the Penguins at the Igloo will likely be the last trip the team makes to the venerable Pittsburgh Arena and it holds some great memories for the team.

Atlantic Division

• The Devils have had their share of injuries this year, but Jacques Lemaire is confident in the team’s youngsters who have filled in.  Could the Devils have had a better start to this season?
• Michael Obernauer explains why the Rangers demoted Matt Gilroy.  According to Larry Brooks, the Rangers recently offered prospect defenseman Bobby Sanguinetti to Phoenix for Peter Mueller.
• The Flyers may be in the market for a goalie, but Brian Boucher isn’t the problem right now.  Could Jaroslav Halak be a Flyers target?
• “A game-winner in Montreal is special,” said Pascal Dupuis after scoring in the third period last night at the Bell Centre.  Alex Goligoski returned to the lineup last night.  Martin Skoula was a healthy scratch last night.

Northeast Division

• Tuukka Rask continues to prove to the Leafs that the organization should never have let him go, writes Fluto Shinzawa.  Phil Kessel’s two games in Boston this season remind many Bruins fans why the team let him go.  Claude Julien called an important timeout and it worked quite well.
• Hometown friends and Buffalo natives Patrick Kane and Tim Kennedy will face-off tonight.  Tyler Myers clearly has the confidence of the Sabres coaching staff.
• The Habs weren’t victorious last night but they are making progress in certain areas, explains Pat Hickey.  Here is a feature on the off-ice struggles of former Habs tough guy Chris Nilan.
• Brian Elliot won the battle of backup goalies last night in Philadelphia, as the former 9th round pick shutout Philadelphia.  Whether he is on the Olympic team or not, Mike Fisher is going to get a chance to run with the Olympic torch.  Earl McRae of the Ottawa Sun tries to analyze Alexei Kovalev.
• Phil Kessel was unable to find any room to move with Zdeno Chara matched up against him, writes Paul Hunter of the Toronto Star.  The Bruins and Leafs have developed a very interesting rivalry.

Southeast Division

• Will Maxim Afinogenov’s presence in Atlanta be enough to keep Ilya Kovachuk as a Thrasher?  Prospect Artus Kurda is close to making his way onto the Thrashers roster.
• Scott Clemmensen gets to return to New Jersey tonight, the place where he established himself as an NHL netminder.  “I don’t believe something you can practice or you can coach,” said Peter DeBoer about the shootout.
• Ryan Malone is more likely than Steven Stamkos to play tonight for the Lightning.  The Bolts are just happy the injuries aren’t as bad as initially anticipated.
• Good news out of Washington, as Mike Knuble may return to the lineup tonight.

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• Playing against the Rangers as a youngster taught a young Martin Brodeur to play the game under controlled emotions, explains Mark Everson.  Brodeur didn’t record a shutout last night but the Devils handled the NHL’s worst road team with a victory at the Prudential center.
• John Tavares single-handedly tied the game in the third period at Toronto, but it wasn’t enough as former Islanders forward Jason Blake scored a late goal to give Toronto the victory.  As a result of a couple injuries, Blake Comeau and Rob Schremp got into the lineup last night. (Registration required)
• The Blackhawks dominated the Rangers in an original six matchup last night, so if not for Henrik Lundqvist, the Rangers surely wouldn’t have recorded one point in the standings.  “My concern is the level of competing which was void as far as I’m concerned,” said an angry John Tortorella.  At least Brandon Dubinsky is closing in on a return to the lineup.
• Peter Laviolette made his new players in Philadelphia pay for taking too many penalties at practice on Wednesday.  Ray Emery’s surgery was successful.
• Mike Rupp wasn’t signed to score goals but there he was yesterday playing alongside Sidney Crosby.  The Penguins have had some travel changes this season, as they do every year.  Chris Kunitz will not be ready to return to the lineup for tonight’s game.

Northeast Division

• Tim Thomas says there is a fine balance between time off and playing every other day.  Let’s just hope it doesn’t rain at Fenway Park for the Winter Classic.  Phil Kessel is already back in town to face the Bruins again tonight.
• Ryan Miller proved why he is the best goalie in the world right now, as the Sabres defeated the high-powered Washington offense by a final score of 3-0.  Nathan Gerbe was called up for yesterday’s game and the diminutive scorer brought instant offense.
• Jacques Martin’s Canadiens have been improving as of late, and the team’s penalty killing units have something to do with that.
• The Senators need to stop taking too many men on the ice penalties.  In good news, Pascal Leclaire is hoping to return to the Ottawa net in the next ten days.  Coach Cory Clouston wants his big guns to start taking on “shooting mentality.”
• For all the panic at the beginning of the season, the Leafs continue to improve, writes Damien Cox.  Phil Kessel returns to Boston for the second time tonight but says he isn’t worried about a repeat of last Saturday.  Ron Wilson wants Luke Schenn to be more physical.
• Is a seventh NHL team in Canada on the horizon?  Jean Charest thinks a team is coming to Quebec City.

Southeast Division

• The Thrashers lost at Calgary last night by a score of 3-1. (Note: No beat writer on the road.)
• The Hurricanes continued their horrible road play last night in New Jersey.  (Note: No beat writer on the road.)
• Tomas Vokoun says the Panthers need to do a better job of scoring in dirty areas, as Florida lost 3-0 at Columbus last night.  The Panthers are hoping that David Booth can return to the lineup after Christmas, but George Richards thinks that is too optimistic.
• Not only did the Bolts lose the game to Edmonton last night, they lost both Ryan Malone and Steven Stamkos to injuries.  The Lighning has played at an average of less than half capacity all season long.  Most news isn’t great coming out of Tampa, but the progress of Victor Hedman has been.
• Alexander Ovechkin wasn’t much of a factor last night for Washington, writes Corey Masisak.

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Atlantic Division

• Martin Brodeur may be on the verge of breaking a couple records, but he continues to be modest.  Mike Mottau will be back in the Devils lineup tonight.
• The Islanders were the perfect tonic for the Flyers’ struggles last night, explains Katie Strang.  Brendan Witt is one tough dude, just ask the Yukon that drove into him on the streets of Philly yesterday. (Registration required)
• John Tortorellla thinks Sean Avery has rediscovered his old form and, as a result, the coach has put him on the top line with Marian Gaborik and Vinny Prospal.  Wade Redden may return to the lineup tonight in Chicago.
• Peter Laviollete recorded his first victory as Flyers head coach last night.  Mike Richards backed up all his talk against the Islanders with a three point  performance against the Islanders.  Brian Boucher was good last night, which is important because Ray Emery is out for six weeks with a muscle tear.  Apparently Emery was secretly dealing with this injury for a month.
• Tony Granato has done a great job coaching the Penguins’ penalty killing units this season.  Dan Bylsma went to bat for his assistant coach Mike Yeo yesterday and the troubles the team’s had on the power play.  Off the ice, the Penguins brought some smiles to lots of children’s faces.

Northeast Division

• The Bruins are doing a good job of sticking up for each other this season, writes Fluto Shinzawa.  Coach Claude Julien had the Bruins practice scoring goals yesterday at practice.
• Lindy Ruff is not happy with the lack of production from Tim Connolly and Derek Roy.  Patrick Kaleta has no problems facing Alexander Ovechkin tonight, after superstar forward nailed him into the boards last week.
• Jaroslav Halak was the difference for the Canadiens last night, as the team was outshot considerably at Ottawa, but still came out on top.  Tomas Plekanec continues to flourish in different roles than he’s played in the past.  Matt D’Agostini is in Jacques Martin’s doghouse.
• Coach Cory Clouston wants his defense to get shots through from the point a lot better.  The Senators were horrible on the power play yesterday, and it may have cost them the game.  Alexei Kovalev may want to start shooting the puck.
• David Shoalts talks about the Leafs successfully minding the gap between forwards and defense.  The Leafs held an outdoor practice yesterday for the fans.  Remember that Brian Burke’s self-imposed trade deadline begins tonight.

Southeast Division

• Nikolai Antropov has always been told to shoot more, but he just feels more comfortable passing.  The Thrashers visit the Flames tonight.
• Paul Maurice said his decision to healthy scratch Rod Brind’Amour was not long term.
• What’s the deal with all the bizarre injuries in Florida?  The Panthers have once again waived Ville Koistinen.
• Rick Tocchet indirectly called out his best players on Tuesday.  Check out the new Lightning lines.
• Corey Masisak wonders if Mike Green will make Team Canada?  Former Capitals owner Abe Pollin’s legacy was honored last night.

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