Game Stories:

Winnipeg Free Press:  Jets earn point in OT loss to Devils.

Winnipeg Sun:  Jets fall 3-2 to Devils in shootout.

Globe and Mail:  Elias’ lone shootout goal helps Devils dump Jets.

NHL.com:  Devils top Jets 3-2 in shootout.

Jets site:  Jets fall to Devils.

The Record:  Devils top Jets, 3-2, in shootout at The Rock.

Star-Ledger:  Patrik Elias goal gives Devils 3-2 shootout win over Winnipeg Jets.

Coach Noel Quotes:

- “how we start like that is unbelievable. To come out like that. Its unbelievable”.

-  “you can’t expect to play that way as a group and expect to get the points”.

-  “we didn’t come out a little flat. We came out a lot flat”.

Player Quotes:

-  Ondrej Pavelec: “It’s kind of a miracle that we stayed in after first period.  That was one of the worst periods we’ve played this year”.

- Andrew Ladd: “We’ve got to start playing better.  Like I said, 1.5 good games out of those 4 isn’t good enough.  This is the time of year when you need to start having your best every night and having your best players showing up”.

- Kyle Wellwood:

Video Highlights:

NHL.com 3 Stars

1.  Evander Kane

2.  Ryan Carter

3.  Mark Stuart

Host Drew Mindell and Analyst Richard Pollock break down the Jets play against the Devils.

Coach DeBoer

Johan Hedberg

David Clarkson

Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images

The following analysis was taken from the show.

Columbus receives: Jack Johnson, a conditional first round pick

Los Angeles Receives: Jeff Carter

Tale of the tape:

Jack Johnson: age 25, under contract until 2017-18 at a cap hit of $4.35 million per season.

Jeff Carter: age 27, under contract until 2021-22 at a cap hit of $5.27 million per season.

This is a trade that must be looked at through two different perspectives. The first is looking at the trade as a single trade. The second view is to look at it on a whole, meaning, Columbus effectively traded Jakub Voracek and the 8^th overall pick (Sean Couturier).

Off the ice, the reasons for trading Carter were about his contract, and his character, says Illegal Curve Hockey Show analyst Richard Pollock:

“I don’t think Columbus did as badly as I thought they would have, because there was no market for Jeff Carter. It was restricted by the fact he has ten years left on his deal, which restricted him to a couple of teams, and other teams were concerned about his character.”

“The market for him was very small, the fact they were able to get the first round pick, and Jack Johnson, who’s game I have concerns about, but does have potential, was fine work by GM Scott Howson on an evaluation of just this trade. If they can nail the draft pick, they can make it look like an all around good deal.”

“Jeff Carter is a good skater, a good stickhandler, he’s got a terrific shot, he can distribute the puck, but he’s not great at it. He’s good defensively, he can play in all situations, he’s an all around really good player.”

Host of the Illegal Curve Hockey Show Drew Mindell added, “he’s a regular 30 goal scorer, which doesn’t ocme easily.”

Pollock continued on Jack Johnson saying, “he’s as good of a skater as Zach Bogosian, good slapshot, good offensive talent, can join the rush. His hockey sense and defensive awareness leave much to be desired.”

In terms of contracts, Johnson’s is more favourable to Carter’s, as it is for less years and money, he is also younger, and defenseman tend to peak at a later age.

Pollock was not in favour of the deal overall, and would not pick a winner. It was a move of desperation for both teams.

Columbus receives: 2^nd round pick in 2012, conditional 5^th in 2013 and Curtis McElhinney

Phoenix receives: Antoine Vermette (age 29, under contract until 2014-15 at a cap hit of $3.75 million per season)

Off the ice: It is interesting to note that this is a salary dump by Columbus, who is assuredly losing money this season, to the NHL owned Phoenix Coyotes.

Antoine Vermette is a limited player offensively, he skates well, and can handle the puck, but is not a point producer (27 points in 62 games this season). Vermette is a player who is better defensively than offensively.

Columbus is shedding a bad contract, at $3.75 million with three years remaining is a lot for a guy who is not a point producer. The value that they are receiving in this deal is in the 2^nd round pick, as well as the removal of his contract on the salary cap. The Blue Jackets can fill the hole left by Vermette with players such as RJ Umberger, Derick Brassard and the return they get for Rick Nash (assuming he is traded before next season).

Curtis McElhinney is a throw in, a back up goalie who’s been injured all year. He is not the answer for Columbus’ goaltending situation.

From a Phoenix perspective, they are getting a player who fits well into their system. Phoenix loads up on veterans who buy into their boring trap style system. Vermette’s speed can create pressure on the opposition and he can play in all situations. He is a “tweener” a 2^nd or 3^rd line player, and on the Coyotes squad he will play a bigger role. He fits the veteran defensively responsible type player that coach Dave Tippett wants.

This is a good move for both teams.

New Jersey Receives: Marek Zidlicky (age 35, cap hit of $4 million until 2012-13)

Minnesota Receives: Kurtis Foster, Nick Palmieri, Stephane Veilleux, a 2^nd round pick In 2012, a conditional 3^rd round pick in 2013 (if New Jersey makes the conference finals this season or next).

New Jersey is filling a need by getting an offensively talented defenseman who can skate and move the puck. From watching New Jersey this season, it is easy to tell they are missing an offensive defenseman. Players such as Anton Volchenkov, Henrik Tallinder and Bryce Salvador are defensive types who can block shots and hit. They did not have a guy with the ability to lead the power play and move the puck out of the defensive zone well enough.

Zidlicky should have no problem fitting into the dressing room with fellow countrymen Petr Sykora and Patrik Elias. He’s signed for next season at $4 million, which is a lot, but offensive defenseman like Zidlicky don’t grow on trees.

Minnesota was in a situation where they were not playing Zidlicky, and he fell out of favor with Coach Mike Yeo.  They receive ex-Wild Kurtis Foster who’s contract comes off the books next season, he is a big body who can chip in with his point shot.

Stephane Veilleux , also an ex-Wild is 13^th forward and his contract expires after the season.

Nick Palmieri has the potential to be a 3^rd or 4^th line player for Minnesota.

Comparing the deal to the Hal Gill deal, the Predators gave up a 2^nd round pick and Blake Geoffrion for Hal Gill. Because the Foster and Veilleux contracts expire at the end of the season, the Devils gave up Nick Palmieri and a 2^nd round pick. If they do reach the conference finals, they will be happy to relinquish the 3^rd round pick.

This is an even trade for both teams.

Colorado receives: Steve Downie

Tampa Bay receives: 1^st round pick from Detroit.

Detroit receives: Kyle Quincey

While this was two separate trades by Tampa Bay GM Steve Yzerman, it should be looked at as one move.

The trades Yzerman has made leading up to the deadline show that the former Detroit Red Wing is ascending up the ranks as one of the top GMs in the NHL.  He is aware that his team is not a Stanley Cup Contender this season and is selling off assets in order to build for the future. As of February 26, 2012, Tampa Bay now has six picks in the first two rounds of the 2012 draft.  The net result of this trade is that Tampa Bay receives Detroit’s first round pick in exchange for Steve Downie.

Detroit adds depth to their defense in Kyle Quincey. Quincey who was drafted by Detroit in 2003 is a player who skate well, can move the puck, but isn’t the most physical. He is brought in to play the 3^rd defense pairing with Jonathan Ericsson, which should take some pressure off of rookie Jakub Kindl. He  fits into Detroit’s system,  and will be an RFA after this season so they will be able to retain him.

Colorado receives Steve Downie who gives their team some much added toughness. He’s a player who can get in your face, go to the net, hit, and move around in the lineup. While he doesn’t have great hands, he can provide 10-15 goals and 30-35 points. Ideally, he’s a 3^rd line right winger. Downey will be an RFA after this season.

A reasonable deal for all sides.

Philadelphia receives: Pavel Kubina

Tampa Bay receives: Jon Kalinski, 2^nd round pick in 2012 or 2013, 4^th round pick in 2013.

This is a depth acquisition by Philadelphia, which may not have been completely necessary, but he is a big body who fits in well with the Flyers team.

Steve Yzerman is stockpiling picks and building for the future.

The bottom line: An even deal.

Florida receives: Jerrod Smithson (age 33, under contract until 2012-13 for $800,000)

Nashville receives: 6^th round draft pick in 2012

Jerrod Smithson is a 4^th line centre who is better than incumbent John Madden. He is a depth acquisition, whose skill lies in winning draws, playing a defensively responsible and killing penalties. Smithson won’t be counted on to provide offense.

Nashville is a well run club and if hey are giving away players for 6^th round picks, this means they have no use for Smithson. His $800,000 salary will come off the books for next season, making this a quasi-salary dump. The Predators are looking to make a run for the cup this season, the trade also opens up a roster spot for additional moves.

This isn’t a significant move, that shouldn’t be overrated.

Tune in to TSN 1290 all day on trade deadline Monday for round the clock coverage. Drew Mindell and Richard Pollock of the Illegal Curve Hockey Show will be on from 12pm-4pm breaking down all the trades, as well as previewing the Winnipeg Jets contest against the Edmonton Oilers.

Bryce Salvador

Patrik Elias

Martin Brodeur

Coach DeBoer

Devils Head Coach Peter DeBoer

The Devils have almost completely shut down the soft spot between the circles, especially when compared to the number of goals they allowed from that same area a season ago.

Is it Lemaire’s system keeping the play on the perimeter? Or is it a matter of Martin Brodeur being a significantly better goaltender than Clemmensen and Weekes, and stopping whatever high-percentage shots the Devils are allowing?

Read the entire terrific article here.

Very good work here by Adam.  Lemaire’s ability to have his team play a style that keeps teams to the perimeter is certainly a testament to his teaching ability and his team’s willingness to buy into what he preaches.  Of course, all those Cups from Montreal and his Cup as Coach of New Jersey go a long way in providing him what that type of teaching platform.  Something tells me his players would not buy into his system as easily if not for his amazing success.

Lemaire is simply a mastermind; why do you think Team Canada named him an assistant coach for the 2010 Olympics?  No one strategizes any better than him and he is a huge asset behind the bench. 

That said, his coaching style isn’t the only one that works.  To be fair, the Devils have 0.4 less goals through 24 games this season than the team did last season under Brent Sutter.  However, it should be pointed out that the team has also scored 0.2 less goals than last season through 24 games.  Now, of course, that is still a 0.2 goal improvement in an NHL that doesn’t see many goals–but Brent Sutter is probably just as effective a head coach as Lemaire, just with a different style of coaching–both in terms of motivation and strategy.

Fans, in general, may prefer Sutter’s style to Lemaire’s, but fans of those respective teams most likely prefer winning with whatever strategy works.

New York Rangers at New Jersey Devils

These teams don’t like each other and never have.  Tonight’s game marks the second of the season for the Devils, after the team was dominated by Philadelphia on Saturday night in Jacques Lemaire’s return to Jersey.  Needless to say, Martin Brodeur wasn’t at his best in the team’s first game (he allowed five goals) and said in the morning papers that he was looking to change a thing or two about his positioning after the opening night loss.

The Rangers started the season by getting defeated in Pittsburgh but then returned the next night and beat Ottawa in the team’s home opener.  In positive news, Marian Gaborik looks healthy and motivated, so the Rangers are going to try and ride the Gaborik train as long as they can. 

Columbus Blue Jackets at Vancouver Canucks

Well, some are already calling this game a “must-win” for the Canucks.  First off, that is absurd, as it is the third game of the season.  Regardless, the Canucks started poorly in Calgary on Thursday and only really started playing in the second half of the game.  Unfortunately for Alain Vigneault and company, his team didn’t fare much better in Colorado on Saturday afternoon and the team is faced with an 0-2 record.  While there shouldn’t be panic in B.C., Vigneault hasn’t wasted any time calling out his non-Sedin lines.  Something tells me the Canucks will be mighty motivated tonight.

As for Columbus, this is a team that defeated the Wild 2-1 on Saturday and is a confident bunch.  Unfortunately for Ken Hitchcock and company, the Jackets play three straight home openers starting with tonight in Vancouver.  That said, Hitchcock will have his much improved team ready to roll.  Expect a higher scoring affair than in the team’s first game of the season.

The New Jersey Devils enter the 2009’10 season with a new (but familiar) head coach in Jacques Lemaire, the same phenomenal world-class goaltender in Martin Brodeur and a boatload of prospects who are trying to make a team that relied too much on their veteran players last year.

While the New Jersey Devils enjoyed plenty of regular season success during Brent Sutter’s two-year stint as head coach, the team’s two consecutive first round exits (including last year’s vomit-inducing last minute collapse against the Carolina Hurricanes) have become annoying and simply unacceptable to President Lou Lamoriello and the rest of the Devils management so this year the pressure to win it all is only higher.

Because the Devils have lost a good chunk of their 2003 Stanley Cup-winning team core, and because the immortal Martin Brodeur is seemingly in the twilight of his career, the time is now for the team from the Garden State to win Cup number four.

Let’s break down this year’s Devils position-by-position.

Forwards:

The Devils scoring attack is clearly led by super-slick left winger Zach Parise, who had a career year last year with 94 points (45 goals, 49 assists).  Parise, who has improved incrementally since breaking into the league as a rookie during the 2005’06 season, can now be labelled a bonafide Top 10 forward in this league after continually proving that he has the ability to single-handedly change the outcome of a game.  Parise has enjoyed great chemistry over the last three seasons playing with center Travis Zajac, although former head coach Brent Sutter lined Parise up with Patrik Elias at times when the Czech forward wasn’t playing the wing.  Zajac has quietly become an excellent two-way forward who can log a surprisingly high amount of ice time (18:38 last year).  Zajac is tenacious and physical (he’ll go into the corners and work the boards for Parise) and reads off of Parise well. You would assume that Captain Jamie Langenbrunner would start the season (and stay there) as the third cog on the “ZZPops” line but Langy is so versatile that he often ends up playing second and third line duties to stretch out the team’s strengths. 

(Image courtesy of njdevilsfanblog.com)

Speaking of Langenbrunner (and I may very well be biased here as a fan of the Devils for the past decade), his play last year was spectacular and a huge reason why the Devils were able to keep it together after a horrendous start. Langenbrunner had 69 points last year and does the little things to make his teammates better.  Always a consummate professional, Langenbrunner has thrived as the team’s captain and may be the hardest working player in the league with the exception of Rod Brind’Amour. 

Future Hall-of-Famer Brendan Shanahan has been lining up with Parise and Zajac early on in training camp and may see significant time on the top line and could even stick there if his combination of leadership/toughness works out with the slippery offensive skills of Parise and Zajac.

Looking at the Devils secondary forward lines, the team is going to need to employ at least two youngsters, especially with the recent injury to Devils stalwart Patrik Elias.  Potentially solid-but-inconsistent Brian Rolston and Dainius Zubrus will man the wings on the team’s second line, but it is unclear who their center will be.  Will 19-year-old Patrice Cormier make the Devils and be given an opportunity on the team’s second line? It seems like that may be asking a little too much of a talented forward who spent last season with the Rimouski Oceanic of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League who has no professional hockey experience.  However, Cormier has impressed the Devils coaching staff with his work ethic and physical play and has been pencilled in by many experts as making the Devils this season.

With the departures of Brian Gionta, John Madden and Bobby Holik, the Devils are suddenly looking very young on forward.  Madden and Holik were staples on the team’s third and fourth lines last year (and over parts of the last decade).

New Jersey’s third line will feature veteran Jay Pandolfo as usual with rapidly-developing tough guy/scorer David Clarkson (who had a solid 32 point campaign last season) but with no Madden.  The Devils feel that Rod Pelley is ready to step into an everyday checking role.

The Devils fourth line will almost certainly feature one scoring prospect, whether that is Swedish winger Nicklas Bergfors (who has patiently bided his time playing for Lowell of the American Hockey League), Alexander Vasyunov or Matt Halischuk.

Defense:

The Devils made very few moves on their back-end during the offseason, bringing in only Cory Murphy, who played for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers last year.  The Devils have a solid group of intelligent defensemen with underrated speed and puckmoving abilities.  Swedish-born defenseman Johnny Oduya has a new multi-year contract with New Jersey and is part of the team’s top defensive pairing along with American college boy Paul Martin. Martin and Oduya have both improved their defensive game over the past two years and play to their strengths, which is positioning and speed.  The duo is not dominating offensively but leads the team by example.

The team’s second unit of Bryce Salvador and Colin White is a shutdown tandem and makes playing in New Jersey very uncomfortable for visiting Eastern Conference forwards. Salvador has been an especially nice fit in Jersey because he has tremendous lateral skating abilities and is an extremely efficient body checker.  White, who graduated from the University of Scott Stevens, is a solid big body presence who rarely makes mistakes in his own zone and who has the ability to chip in the odd goal once in awhile.

The Devils defensive corps is rounded out by Mike Mottau and Andy Greene.  Cory Murphy, who has shown that he can score at the European pro level, will be given a shot to provide an adrenaline boost on the team’s power play.

Goaltending:

Martin Brodeur. And Yann Dannis? You would think that after only playing in 31 games last season and struggling towards the end of the first round of the playoffs last season, that everyone in New Jersey would be talking about the decline of the great Quebecois goaltender.

Not the case.

Martin Brodeur will play 70+ games for the Devils this season and will be the Number-1 goalie for the Canadian Olympic Team in Vancouver.

Oh yeah, and newcomer Yann Danis will be a competent back-up for Marty, replacing Scott Clemmensen. He just won’t play that much.

Prediction:

Ceiling: The Devils can finish as high as second in the Atlantic Division and fourth in the Eastern Conference if they get secondary scoring from their younger players and Marty B. stays healthy all year.

Floor: The Devils may finish as low as 4th in the Atlantic Division and 8th in the Eastern Conference if the team team struggles defensively and goes through a prolonged mid-season slump.

• Boris Valabik has re-signed with Atlanta for multiple years.  No word yet on the term, or dollars but the massive defenseman could become an effecive player with more seasoning.
• Phil Kessel is the only remaining RFA the Bruins need to sign.  A trade still seems most likely, however, it doesn’t appear Chiarelli has received an offer he deems sufficient.
• Alexei Kovalev wants Dany Heatley to stay in Ottawa.  Of course he does, because they are not going to get an equal return on value for Heatley.  Regardless, Kovalev is right here.  Unless the Sens receive a good offer for Heatley, they should stand their ground and keep him.
• The Devils’ full pre-season schedule can be seen here.  Exciting!
• Seth Rorabaugh tells Penguins fans why they’ll be watching each Penguins game in November.  Aside from those reasons called Crosby and Malkin, of course.

• Randy Carlyle is happy with his team’s moves this off-season, especially the addition of a couple scoring forwards, but his main focus will still be team defense come the fall.  He should be happy.  The team has one of the best top-six forward units in hockey, some nice talent on defense and a great young netminder.  Obviously the loss of Pronger will hurt, but the extra offense should help ease that pain.  Expect the Ducks to be a force in the ultra-competitive Western Conference next season.
• Fluto Shinzawa talks (in video form) about the progress of Bruins prospect Joe Colborne.  I know he’s big and I know his name is Joe, but people shouldn’t expect him to become Thornton-like.  Thornton’s skills were far ahead Colborne’s when he was in his late teens.  So, don’t expect the Bruins to rush Colborne–especially considering the team’s depth at forward.
• Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch previews the St. Louis Blues heading into 2009/10.  I think the Blues are going to be better than Columbus next season and could even be the fourth best team in the Conference.  John Davidson, Larry Pleau and Doug Armstrong are running the organization as well as any organization in the NHL.  So yeah, I’m pretty high on the Blues moving forward.
• The Habs were impressed enough with Andreas Engqvist at the team’s development camp that they have signed him to a three-year deal.  Needless to say, not many people know much about this kid.  However, he’s young and has good size and experience playing in a tough league, so there is little, if any, downside to a move of this nature.
• With the Jiri Hudler situation currently under review, John Glennon wonders if the IIHF will show any bite this time around by not allowing his move to the KHL to occur?  Not likely.  As Glennon says, what did the IIHF do last season when Alexander Radulov clearly broke the rules?  Why would we expect things to change?
• Rumor has it Jacques Lemaire is heading back to New Jersey to become the team’s head coach.  Well, that retirement lasted long!  This move really isn’t surprising.  Lemaire and Lamoriello are old friends, and both know what they are getting into.  He’s obviously more than a capable replacement for the departed Brent Sutter and the Devils will be a force to be reckon with next season, yet again. 
• The Hershey Bears have named Mark French as their new coach.  He takes over for Bob Woods, who led the team to a Calder Cup Championship last season.   

Sutter has said that his decision on whether he would return to New Jersey next season would be based solely on family and business commitments in Red Deer.

There has been some speculation that his brother Darryl, the general manager of the Calgary Flames, has been waiting to make a decision on his team’s head coaching opening to see if Brent would be available.

Read the entire article here.

Credit to Rich Chere who had this story in the Star-Ledger this morning.  Anyhow, with Sutter set to announce his resignation from the Devils, the rumors of him heading to Calgary will probably begin in full force.  However, let’s not get ahead of ourselves here.  I would think it is extremely unlikely that Lou Lamoriello would let Sutter walk and pick up with another franchise (albeit a non-Eastern Conference franchise) without compensation.  So, unless there is some sort of package Lamoriello and Brent’s Brother Darryl have agreed upon, I would think that Darryl Sutter is probbaly the most likely head coach of Calgary next season.

That said, Brent Sutter is, in my mind, one of the top five coaches in the NHL and Sutter may believe that he is worth the compensation being asked for.  Obviously I’d have to see that compensation to determine whether I’d believe it to be reasonable or not.  Either way, things should start to work themselves out before the Draft in Montreal.

• Special teams play may decide the Wings/Ducks series.  It most certainly will.  I don’t see the Wings sustaining their tremendous first round power play success, but anything over 20% should spell trouble for the penalty taking Ducks.
• Here was the lineup at Bruins practice today. Nothing new on this front.
• Jarome Iginla talked to the Calgary media on getaway day, but Miikka Kiprusoff did not.  Why are people surprised?  Iginla is the voice of the Flames and Kiprusoff has always been shy and introverted.  Give the guy a break.
• Jussi Jokinen is for real, says coach Paul Maurice.  Another great Lightning transaction.
• The Hart Trophy finalists have been announced.  Russia 2010=scary.
• Here is how Rich Hammond of the L.A. Daily News voted for every award.  I like Hammond’s willingness to publish his voting record. 
• Lou Lamoriello wants Brent Sutter back next season in Jersey.  I bet Sutter will take some time after that loss and make a decision on his future in the next couple weeks.

What could be better than watching Capitals versus Penguins for two weeks?

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• Could Chris Clark return to the Capitals lineup tonight to replace the suspended Donald Brashear?  The Capitals have a chance to redeem last season’s Game 7 heartbreak versus Philadelphia tonight at the Verizon Center, writes Mike Wise.  Nothing like ESPN reporting that Mike Green would be suspended.
• According to coach John Tortorella, the Rangers have absolutely nothing to lose tonight.  Jay Greenberg takes issue with Tortorella’s methods in this morning’s NY Post.  Tortorella aside, the Blueshirts have a chance if Henrik Lundqvist stands on his head.  If hockey was on people’s radars, then maybe there would be a big outcry about the two Game 7s of the NY area being aired at essentially the same time.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Amazingly, Jamie Langenbrunner had knee surgery after Game 2 of this series and somehow came back to play Game 6.  The Devils’ top young duo of Travis Zajac and Zach Parise is nervous but looking forward to tonight’s Game 7.  As Mike Rupp says, the team that is the most relaxed will win tonight.  Stopping Eric Staal may be the key to winning tonight’s game.  Off the ice, Lou Lamoriello is reportedly going to be relieved of his business duties with the team.  That report is now being denied.
• Sure it is Game 7 tonight, but the Hurricanes have learned that every game is important.  Don’t expect any lineup changes by Paul Maurice.

Second Round Matchups

Detroit Red Wings (1) versus Anaheim Ducks (7)

• Kris Draper thinks he will be able to return for the start of Round 2.  Darren Helm, who has picked up the slack in Draper’s absence, played extra physical in the first round.
• Helene Elliot says that last night’s result in favor of Anaheim proves that the regular season means very little.  Ryan Getzlaf led the Ducks from beginning to end, writes Dan Wood.  “I thought we were hungrier,” said Teeme Selanne.  Yesterday’s game was good old playoff hockey.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• If the Canucks were going to take the next step this season, they had to replace Markus Naslund, opines Ed Willes.  Coach Alain Vigneault is confident his entire defense corps will be ready for the start of Round 2.  Speaking of Round 2, the Canucks now know their opponent.  If you think the Canucks are taking it easy at practice, you are sadly mistaken.
• The Blackhawks defeated Calgary on Monday, marking the first time the organization has won a playoff round in thirteen years.  Yesterday’s series victory was an impressive feat for the young Hawks.  Even post-series, Adam Burish claims he was never told by any teammates or coaches to stop yapping.  The Seabrook brothers have a great bond, explains Shannon Ryan.

Boston Bruins (1) versus TBA

• Tim Thomas is now recognized around the NHL as one of the league’s top netminders, so he won’t be surprising anyone anymore.  Earlier this playoffs, Matt Hunwick had his spleen removed, so he’s hoping the Bruins make a long run to enable him to return to the fold.  It doesn’t appear the Bruins will start Round 2 until Friday.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus TBA

• The Penguins don’t know who they’ll play in Round 2, but they know they’ll probably play on Thursday or Friday.  During Dan Bylsma’s day off, he paid a visit to Wilkes-Barre.  More talk on whether fighting can change the momentum of a game.  (Writer’s note: Good points by Starkey, but I still don’t agree in this case.)

Teams that have been eliminated from the playoffs:

• The San Jose Sharks lost in the first round for the first time since 2001.  Mark Purdy says the Sharks never got a hold of the series.
• Jarome Iginla says he didn’t do enough in the Flames’ six-game series loss to the Blackhawks.  Last night’s loss means that the Flames have lost four first round matchups in a row.  Miikka Kiprusoff says fatigue was not a factor in his playoff performance.  Excuses may be for losers, but the Flames did have some valid reasons for losing to Chicago.  Mike Keenan was outcoached, writes Eric Francis.  What will become of the Flames’ pending free agents?
• Steve Mason’s first time in Vegas this June for the NHL Awards should be fun.

Teams that did not make the playoffs:

• After undergoing hip surgery, Niklas Backstrom got some good news yesterday, writes Brian Stensaas.
• If Sabres fans don’t knoiw the name Jhonas Enroth, they should get to know it.
• Apparently the Oilers are interested in Tom Renney for the vacant head coaching position.

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• Did you know Mark Stuart and Shane Hnidy were only on the ice for one Montreal goal against in the entire first round?  For now, the Bruins are just watching the playoffs to see which team they will meet in Round 2.
• Jack Todd of the Montreal Gazette says the Habs are an awful bunch from top to bottom.

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• The Capitals defeated the Rangers at MSG yesterday and now hold all the momentum going into Tuesday’s deciding Game 7.  If Henrik Lundqvist was in the Capitals’ heads earlier this series, he sure isn’t anymore, writes Dan Steinberg.  For a guy who was booed out of New York, Sunday’s four point performance must have been sweet revenge for Tom Poti.  Speaking of defensemen, Mike Green is back on track offensively for the Caps.
• “You look at the score of the last two games, it’s hard to say we worked hard enough,” said Chris Drury.  The Rangers just don’t look very good right now, explains Jay Greenberg.  Subject to an elbow from Donald Brashear, Rangers center Blair Betts will miss Game 7.  Meanwhile, Brandon Dubinsky claims he was bitten during Game 6.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• “One team played like there was no tomorrow; the other team played like there was,” said Devils coach Brent Sutter after his team’s 4-0 loss last night.  You play all season for home-ice advantage and the Devils are hoping that will give them the edge in Game 7.  Home-ice won’t even matter if the Devils’ best players don’t come to play on Tuesday.
• With a terrific performance from Eric Staal, it all comes down to Tuesday night for Carolina.  Has Paul Maurice finally found the right combinations for the Hurricanes’ lines?

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• Evgeni Malkin has had some important fans in the stands to cheer him on.  It was sure important for the Penguins to avoid a Game 7 with the Flyers.  Penguins GM Ray Shero is happy his team has faced some adversity during this season’s playoffs.
• The Flyers seemed at a loss for words when it came to identifying what went wrong this season.  Here is the team’s free agent situation heading into the summer.  Don’t expect the Flyers organization to panic after the series loss, says Comcast President Peter Lukko.

Western Conference

San Jose Sharks (1) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• As long as the Sharks keep sarcifing their bodies, they have a chance to win this series, opines Mark Purdy.  If the Sharks are to win the next two games, they need Joe Thornton to play like he did in Game 5.  Are the Sharks similar to the 2007 Dallas Mavericks?
• Teemu Selanne is keeping a positive attitude, even though he’s only tallied one assist all series versus San Jose.  Having short-term memories really does help the Ducks from game-to-game, writes Dan Wood.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Columbus Blue Jackets (7)

• Here are the teams that the Red Wings could face in Round 2.  The legendary Jimmy Devellano reflects back on his time with the Red Wings.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus St Louis Blues (6)

• Kyle Wellwood has played really well so far this playoffs but he may be even more proud of the way his brother has played in the OHL playoffs.  When it comes to who they may match up against in the second round, the Canucks don’t care.  Ryan Kesler has become a beast for the Canucks, writes Grant Kerr.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

• “We believe we can win in their building,” says Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith.  They may have confidence they can win in Calgary, but the Hawks know it won’t be easy.
• If the Flames want force Game 7, they will have to eliminate their mid-game lapses, writes Eric Duhatschek.  “We don’t want it to be over, and we don’t believe it will be over. We believe we’re going to win that game and force Game 7,” said Flames captain Jarome Iginla.  In injury news, Dion Phaneuf is still listed as day-to-day.

Non-Playoff Teams/Stories:

• Chris Zelkovich of the Toronto Star says fighting isn’t always responsible for changing the momentum of the game.  (Writer’s note: Maybe he’s been reading this site, as I’ve been arguing the same thing for the past two days)
• Not surprisingly, Canada dominated Hungary at the World Hockey Championships.

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe tells us that David Krejci is for real. Some people believe Marc Savard was basically Joe Thornton’s replacement in Boston, and he is sure demonstrating who the better player is this post-season.  In injury news, Patrice Bergeron’s foot is still bothering him, but not enough to hold him out of any games.
• Stu Cowan is critical of some of Carey Price’s decisions in this morning’s Montreal Gazette

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• The Capitals’ win in Game 5 has put some doubt into the minds of the Rangers.  With all the attention given to their forwards, the Capitals defense has quietly become very solid.  The first goal will be huge this afternoon.
• The irony surrounding the Rangers really is amazing, writes Mark Herrmann of Newsday.  Rangers coach John Tortorella has been suspended for Game 6.  Larry Brooks is critical of John Tortorella in this morning’s NY Post.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Jamie Langenbrunner returns for the Devils tonight, however, Bryce Salvador is not expected to play.
• With the recession in full force, the Hurricanes are having trouble selling playoff tickets.  For some reason Versus waited until tonight to start broadcasting the Hurricanes/Devils.  Tonight’s do or die for the Hurricanes.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• The Penguins came back yesterday from a 3-0 deficit and sent the Flyers golfing, writes Dave Molinari.  Evegeni Malkin is looking forward to getting some rest.  Many are saying that Maxime Talbot’s fight turned the game around for Pittsburgh (Writer’s note: Garbage.  Talbot challenged Carcillo and got served hard.  In fact, he was pretty much embarassed and the crowd got jacked up as a result.  Just because the Penguins happened to score a couple fluky goals to tie the game, does not mean Talbot was the reason for that.)
• When you blow a 3-0 lead at home, you do not deserve to win.  With the season complete, expect another goalie controversy in Philadelphia.  Forget goaltending, Jeff Carter is blaming himself for the Flyers’ fortunes.

Other Articles of Interest:

• Kevin Paul Dupont wonders if we will see Bob Gainey step down in Montreal?
• Francois Giguere speaks about his firing with Adrian Dater of the Denver Post.

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• The Bruins have no problems with waiting until late next week to start Round 2.  “You have to take the positive out of it. It gives us an opportunity to rest and we’re actually a pretty healthy team right now,” said coach Claude Julien.  In Round 1, Boston did a very good job of staying out of the box.  Simply, Zdeno Chara is the man.
• Could both Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St. Louis be part of the Habs’ off-season plan?  Dave Stubbs wonders if Saku Koivu has played his last game as a member of the Canadiens?  Here is Red Fisher’s Saturday Notebook.

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• Matt Bradley did not just score once last night, he scored twice, as the Capitals forced a Game 6 back at MSG.  Some guy named Ovechkin was pretty good last night too.  Stephen Whyno thinks the Rangers missed Sean Avery.  It also didn’t hurt that Henrik Lundqvist decided to take off his cape and take a night off from being Superman.
• Make no mistake, the Rangers are John Tortorella’s team.  One of the ways Tortorella has made his mark as Rangers coach was by benching Sean Avery for last night’s contest.  Avery wasn’t against his benching saying, “I totally stand behind what Torts did.”  During the third period of yesterday’s frustrating loss, Tortorella got into a fight with a fan.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• It looks like Devils captain Jamie Langenbrunner will be back in the lineup for Game 6.  John Madden has made it clear that the Devils want to end things tomorrow night.  If this series goes seven games, it really could be an all-time classic.
• Tomorrow is put up or shut up time for the Hurricanes.  Luke Decock of the News & Observer says it is time for Eric Staal to step up.

Pittburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• If the Penguins win today, it will allow them to forget that the Flyers have really been in control the past three games.  Not unexpectedly, Bill Guerin has taken on an important leadership role fo the Penguins.  Speaking of veteran leaders, if the Penguins do win this series, their veterans need to pick up the pace.  A seventh game wouldn’t surprise anyone.
• Forget hockey, one of the Flyers’ scouts actually saved the lives of a mom and child last week.  Meanwhile, Phil Sheridan gives John Stevens some credit for being patient with his team.  The Flyers are doing their best to forget the long odds of coming back from down 3-to-1.  Surprisingly, rugged forward Daniel Carcillo has been one of the keys to the Flyers’ turnaround.

Illegal Curve is now on Twitter and Facebook.

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• After being so injured last playoffs, the Bruins realize just how important rest is during the playoffs.  This Boston team just has a quiet confidence about them.  Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara has been nominated for the Norris Trophy.
• It appears the sale of the Montreal Canadiens this summer is inevitable.  It may be an understatement to say that Bob Gainey is not a fan of the Tampa Bay management.  Carey Price sat and faced the bright lights of the Montreal media on Thursday.  What’s next for long-time Canadien forward and leader Saku Koivu?  If there is talk that Bob Gainey won’t be back next season for Montreal, it doesn’t appear to have come from Gainey himself, as he says he has work to do when it comes to the Habs’ off-season.  Alexei Kovalev has voiced his interest in returning to the Habs.

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• The Capitals have the same difficult task they were faced with last season against Philadelphia, writes Barry Syrluga.  You’d be surprised to know that Alexander Ovechkin reads Capitals message boards.  Capitals defenseman Mike Green has been nominated for the Norris Trophy.  Illegal Curve’s Ari Baum-Cohen calculated the Capitals’ odds of coming back in this series.
• John Tortorella wouldn’t say whether he’d healthy scratch Sean Avery for Game 5 tonight.  Chris Drury has his team pumped up for tonight’s possible clinching game at the Verizon Center.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• After blowing the game late in Game 4, the Devils hung on to defeat the Hurricanes 1-0 yesterday at The Rock.  The Devils are now focused on Sunday’s Game 6.  It is truly amazing how clutch Martin Brodeur is.
• The Hurricanes were shutout by Martin Brodeur last night, but they are holding their heads high.  With last night’s game behind them, the Hurricanes’ focus has shifted directly to Game 6.  Anton Babchuk was a healthy scratch on Thursday night.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• “We didn’t play as well as we could,” said Penguins veteran defenseman Sergei Gonchar about his team’s performance in Game 5.  Petr Sykora was not in the lineup for Pittsburgh on Thursday and was surprised to find out the news.  Give Dan Bylsma credit for making a difficult lineup decision concerning Sykora.  A storm in Atlanta caused many Penguins fans to miss the majority of yesterday’s game on television.
• Claude Giroux is becoming a Flyers fan favorite with his play in the first round.  Giroux is becoming a favorite, but the Flyers couldn’t have won last night without a terrific performance from Martin Biron.  Depth helps; as Flyers fourth liner Arron Asham turned the tide of Thursday’s tilt.  Right now, Philadelphia simply has to focus on one game at a time.

Western Conference

San Jose Sharks (1) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• It will all come down to Saturday for the Sharks, after a terrible performance last night in Anaheim.  The Sharks just are not playing with any purpose right now, opines Mark Purdy.  When are the Sharks going to trade Joe Thornton?
• Anaheim’s performance in Game 4 was their best of the series so far, writes Dan Wood.  Bobby Ryan is playing a ten-year veteran for the Ducks, writes Helene Elliot.  Ryan’s linemates were pretty darn good too.  In surprising news, the Ducks finished with less penalties than the Sharks.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Columbus Blue Jackets (7)

• Not only did the Red Wings sweep the Blue Jackets, but they didn’t even trail in the series once.  The Wings really looked like a well-oiled machine the entire series.  Columbus fans were not happy after a late third period penalty call and actually hit Wings coach Mike Babcock with debris.  In non-playoff news, Nicklas Lidstrom was once again nominated for the Norris Trophy.
• Sure the Jackets were down 3-0 in the series heading into last night’s game, but the way they lost the series may sting for a while, writes Aaron Portzline.  For all the anger from the Blue Jackets team and fans, GM Scott Howson says the officials got the late penalty call right.  Last night’s loss may have been painful, but there is nothing for the Columbus player to be ashamed of.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus St Louis Blues (6)

• Just how important is Roberto Luongo to the Canucks’ success?  Luongo doesn’t have the best record of playing well after long layoffs, but he is not worried about the past.  The Blues were a perfect appetizer for the Canucks, writes Cam Cole.
• Blues defensemen Jay McKee and Eric Brewer will both be undergoing post-season surgery.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

• Eric Duhatschek talks about the similarities of Eric Nystrom to his father.  Andre Roy has been suspended by the NHL for Game 5.
• After a tough Game 4, the Hawks aren’t suddenly going to lose confidence in Nikolai Khabibulin.  For a young team, do not expect the Blackhawks players to panic, writes Tim Sassone.  Interestingly, the Hawks were given Thursday off.  More Chicago players have to play like Kris Versteeg.

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• “We got beat by a better team,” said Canadiens coach and GM Bob Gainey.  The Bruins conquered some of their demons yesterday night, writes Kevin Paul Dupont.  “It was definitely a good feeling to beat your old team here in Montreal and get the last one,” said former Canadiens winger Michael Ryder.  Of course Milan Lucic and Mike Komisarek had a chance to go at it last night.  Any talk about David Krejci being tired should be put to rest, as the young center was tremendous in the series.  Looking to Round 2, Andrew Ference is moving closer to a return to the lineup.
• Pat Hickey says Carey Price has clearly regressed over the past two seasons.  “People were rude, people were unfair, so he stood up for himself. What’s wrong with that?” said Bob Gainey about the Canadiens fans’ treatment of Carey Price.  Red Fisher wonders if Bob Gainey will be back next season?

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• NHL teams that are down 3-1 in a series like the Capitals comeback to win only 8.7% of the time.  Mike Wise says that the pressure is on Alexander Ovechkin to take his team past the first round like his superstar counterpart Sidney Crosby.  The Capitals just were not desperate at the start of Game 4 and it showed.  At least Brian Pothier has played well since being put into the lineup after Game 1.
• Chris Drury is just plain clutch.  For everything the Capitals throw at the Rangers, Henrik Lundqvist is inevitably there to catch it.  “That’s why they pay me the big bucks,” said the netminder also known as the King.  The Rangers now sit only one win away from a huge upset, writes Larry Brooks.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• The Devils have to have a short memory when it comes to the no-call at the very end of Game 4.  Is an angry Martin Brodeur exactly what New Jersey needs?  The Devils most likely will not have Jamie Langenbrunner and Bryce Salvador for Game 5.
• It is impossible to predict what will happen next in the ultra tight Hurricanes/Devils series.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• “A team doesn’t get any more desperate than in a situation like that,” says Sidney Crosby about the Flyers tonight.  Tyler Kennedy knows what it is like to blow a series lead, so he doesn’t want to be on a team that does it again.  Craig Adams has really helped the Penguins in the face-off department.  Do the Penguins need to sit Petr Sykora?
• While the Flyers have probably outplayed the Penguins in three of the four games, the Flyers fans just want results.  Philadelphia has more confidence down 3-1 versus Pittsburgh this playoffs than they did last playoffs.  Let’s be honest though, Marc-Andre Fleury hasn’t been the team’s only problem.

The Western Conference Morning Papers will be a little late this morning. I apologize for the delay.

• The Ducks let the Sharks get their confidence back last night.  Too many stupid penalties by Anaheim.  You’d think at some point the players would stop taking useless penalties to allow the dangerous Sharks power play countless opportunities. 
• Blake Wheeler has not been nominated for the Calder.  He had a good season but wasn’t as good as the top three finalists.  I’ll say this, he certainly surprised me his output this season.  One of Peter Chiarelli’s shrewd moves.
• No Mathieu Schneider tonight for the Habs and Carey Price is starting in net.  This team will look a whole lot different beginning with the draft at the Bell Centre.
• Brent Sutter is happy his team battled back last night, but wasn’t happy with the team’s overall performance.  This series really is too close to call.  It feels like a Game 7 overtime series to me. 
• Bruce Boudreau thinks Mike Green can be better for the Capitals.  He seems to lack confidence right now.
• The Penguins are calling for a white-out tonight at Mellon Arena.  Come up with your own ideas and stop stealing this idea from the former Winnipeg Jets.
• Alexander Ovechkin talks about Sean Avery.  Prediction: Caps 3, Rangers 2 tonight.

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• The Bruins won’t be getting ahead of themselves like they did five years ago, writes Stephen Harris.  The Bruins definitely do not lack depth this playoffs.  They have so much depth that someone who does not deserve to sit will be in the press box tonight.  Steve Montador has fit in perfectly with his new Bruins teammates, proving to them he is the ultimate team player.  The story of Matt Hunwick’s spleen.
• “Everything is possible,” is the message being sent from Habs captain Saku Koivu.  That said, there is little reason to believe the Habs will be the third team to ever comeback from down 3-0, writes Sean Gordon.  Pat Hickey instructs Habs fans to stop booing the U.S. anthem.  If the Habs lose tonight, the cops will be ready.

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7) 

• Since allowing a goal to Ryan Callahan, Simeon Varlamov has made 55 consecutive saves for the Capitals.  Varlamov has developed probably faster than the Capitals organization had anticipated.  Even with a wonky groin, Tom Poti will suit up tonight for the Rangers.
• New York needs to recapture the momentum they earned from winning games one and two.  “No one in this room thought it was going to be easy, and that we were going to win four straight games,” said Rangers defenseman Derek Morris.  A fed up John Tortorella has challenged his team’s top players to improve their play.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• It sure was an eventful game, but Martin Brodeur was furious after last night’s loss at Carolina.  “It’s a tough way to lose with that little amount of time left,” said Brian Gionta after the Hurricanes scored the game winning goal with 0.2 seconds left in the third period.  Not only did the Devils lose the game, but they also lost Bryce Salvador to injury.
• “Huge game, huge win for us,” said Game 4 star Jussi Jokinen.  After being a healthy scratch for the second and third games of the series, Dennis Seidenberg came back into the lineup and made his mark for Carolina.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• So much for any talk about Marc-Andre Fleury not having what it takes, as he stood on his head to almost single-handedly lead the Penguins to a Game 4 victory on Tuesday night.  The Penguins’ face-off taking skills have improved to such a point where they now sit second in the post-season in face-off percentage.  If the Penguins/Flyers is going to turn into a genuine rivalry, the Flyers are going to have to win one of these times, writes Joe Starkey.  Whose fans are louder?
• Generally when you put 46 shots on net, you are likely to win, but the Flyers were out of luck against Marc-Andre Fleury last night.  If the Flyers want to pull a comeback in this series, they need Jeff Carter to get going.  Worry not Flyers fans, the team has pulled off comebacks before.

Western Conference papers are up next…

 Game Notes:

• IC Trivia:  Which are the only two teams to come back from a 3-0 series deficit?
• For the 1st time in the 38 year history of the Canucks they’ve swept a 7 game series.
• Paul Kariya is out for tonight’s game and Mats Sundin is a game time decision.
• Since moving to Raleigh, the Canes have thrived when falling behind 2-1 in the postseason, losing only one out of four series. 
• Chicago Blackhawks’ Patrick Kane says he’s ready for Game 4.
• The hit of the night goes to Detroit’s Brad Stuart who CRUSHED R. J. Umburger in the 2nd.

Final		T				Final		T
	Pittsburgh	3					Detroit	4
	Philadelphia	1					Columbus	1
Game Preview						Game Preview
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Team Game Threads: Pensburgh Broad Street Hockey						Team Game Threads: Winging it in Mowtown The Canon
Game Recap						Game Recap

Final		T				FINAL OT		T
	New Jersey	3					Vancouver	3
	Carolina	4					St. Louis	2
Game Preview						Game Preview
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Team Game Threads: In Lou We Trust Canes Country						Team Game Threads: Nucks Misconduct St. Louis Game Time
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL		T
	San Jose	4
	Anaheim	3
Game Preview
Game Scoresheet
Team Game Threads: Fear the Fin Battle of California
Game Recap

Red Wings vs. Blue Jackets 3 Stars:

• 1st Star:  Dan Cleary:  The Carbonear, Newfoundland and Labrador native got the party started with a big 1st goal (turned out to be the game winner) which took the Columbus crowd out of the game.  He also added two assists and a number of bone crushing hits which helped the Wings take a strangle hold on this series.
• 2nd Star: Chris Osgood:  As I said in my playoff preview “he is a veteran goalie who knows what it takes to win a series” and he is proving me right and his worth to the team having only given up 2 goals in 180 minutes of playoff hockey.
• 3rd Star:  Detroit’s Penalty Kill:  This much maligned group finished the regular season in 25th spot but has only given up 1 power play goals in 11 Columbus opportunities.. 

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• Michael Ryder stuck it to his old team yesterday at the Bell Centre.  Boston did miss Milan Lucic, but Byron Bitz did a terrific job filling in.  For all intents and purposes, this series is now over.
• The Habs had their chances last night but they just couldn’t capitalize, writes Pat Hickey.  Red Fisher says the Canadiens miss Andrei Markov more than anyone thought they would.  Last night’s game was played without Alex Tanguay and Mathieu Schneider.

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• Talk about a bounce back performance, the Captials went into MSG and let it be known the series is far from over.  Simeon Varlamov is as cool off the ice as he is on it.  Nicklas Backstrom was a force for Washington.
• After such a strong start to the series have the Rangers already lost the momentum?  Chris Drury’s apparent hand injury is cutting into his productivity and his ice-time.  “We stunk; it’s simple,” said Rangers coach John Tortorella after yesterday’s game.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Zach Parise has been carrying the Devils through the team’s first three games against Carolina.  We already know Parise is a star, but Travis Zajac is becoming one as well, writes Rich Chere.
• Both David Clarkson and Chad LaRose have worked hard to get to where they are today.  If the Hurricanes want to win this series, they are going to have get their offense going.  If you watched the Devils/Canes Game 3 on DirecTV you missed the overtime goal.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• Did the Penguins struggle in their own zone last game because they haven’t been in their own zone lately?  Sergei Gonchar knows what it is like when teams focus on being physical with a player for an entire series.  One person who doesn’t mind the physical play of the series is Chris Kunitz.  Give credit to Penguins GM Ray Shero for saving the season, writes Joe Starkey.
• Daniel Briere’s line has been a perfect compliment to the top two lines in Philadelphia.  The Flyers want to make sure they play a desperate game tonight.  Hockey is put into perspective when you read about Matt Carle’s brother and the heart condition that forced him to retire from hockey at 18 years old.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• Matt Hunwick got quite the welcoming to the NHL playoffs on Thursday.  Milan Lucic continues to prove he is made for prime time, writes Fluto Shinzawa.  Bruins enforcer Shawn Thornton appears to have grown tired of comments from Georges Laraque.  One player who won’t back down from the Bruins’ physical play is defenseman Mike Komisarek.
• The Habs got a little feisty after the whistle last game, writes Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette.  In injury news, Andrei Markov is back on the ice for Montreal but won’t play in Game 2.  The Habs just want to get over “the hump”.  Meanwhile, Red Fisher talks about the high number of firings in the NHL this season.

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• Jeff Schultz has an undisclosed injury and has been pulled from the Capitals lineup in favor of Brian Pothier.  Washington has noticed the increased aggressiveness of the Rangers since John Tortorella was hired.  Mike Wise of the Washington Post has an interesting article on the career of Sergei Fedorov.
• The Rangers had a huge scare at practice yesterday, as Henrik Lundqvist was shaken up.  With two days between games, the Blueshirts want to make sure they maintain the momentum they created in Game 1.  New York better be good today because Jose Theodore won’t be worse than he was in Game 1, opines Larry Brooks.  In other Broadway news, the team signed highly-coveted young defenseman Matt Gilroy to a two-year deal.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• New Jersey not only lost the game yesterday in overtime but they may have lost captain Jamie Langenbrunner for a prolonged period of time, writes Mark Everson.  Brian Rolston will have to pick it up for New Jersey.  Paul Maurice was happy with his team’s improved intensity after a 4-1 loss in Game 1.
• Eric Staal seemed to create more for himself and the whole Hurricanes team brought an increased intensity in Game 2, writes Chip Alexander.  Everywhere you look there is a Sutter.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• The Penguins knew they had to score on their 5-on-3 in overtime, and they did just that.  Those two penalties on Philadelphia ended up being the difference, writes Shelly Anderson.  (Writer’s note: Penalties should be in quotations because the cross-check they called was absolutely not a penalty in my opinion.) Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette says the Penguins deserved last night’s victory.  Marc-Andre Fleury was clutch.
• At least the Flyers improved over Game 1, writes Sam Carchidi.  Sam Donnellon thinks experience is the difference in this series.  Luca Sbisa is making quite the transition on the fly.

Western Conference papers up next.

• Don’t mess with the Devils.  Hilarious clip.
• Bill Guerin gets his first ever Playoff OT goal in his 17 year career.
• Sundin scores his first playoff goal in 5 years giving the Canucks a 1-0 lead.
• J.D. being interviewed as 3rd period starts.  You hear that voice and you think you’re watching a Rangers game.
• Keith Tkachuk playoff goals: 28.  Remainder of St. Louis Active Roster: 23.  Shockingly he was also the voice of reason holding back Andy Murray at the end of the game when it looked like his coach was going to jump onto the Canucks bench.

FINAL OT		T				FINAL OT		T
	Philadelphia	2					Carolina	2
	Pittsburgh	3					New Jersey	1
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Broad Street Hockey PensBurgh						Canes Country  In Lou We Trust
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL		T
	St. Louis	0
	Vancouver	3
Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:
St. Louis Game Time Nucks Misconduct
Game Recap

Canucks vs. Blues 3 Stars:

• 1st Star:  Roberto Luongo.  Having seen him do it live (in Detroit last year vs. Hasek) and after watching him tonight, he is just unbelievable.  He makes amazing saves look routine.  Shutout.
• 2nd Star: Sedin Twins & Burrows.  Fantastic energy all game long.  Buzzing in all ends of the rink.  (combined 6 points tonight)
• 3rd Star:  Andy McDonald must have hit 15 posts and crossbars tonight.  Best Blue on the ice.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

• The Bruins blew a two-goal lead, but got a huge third period goal from Zdeno Chara and are off to a 1-0 series lead.  Now is the perfect time for the Bruins to capature the Boston marketplace.  The Habs do not exactly look intimidating, writes Kevin Paul Dupont.  P.J. Axelsson does all the important things many fans don’t notice.  Former Bruin Glen Metropolit is playing an offensive role for the rival-Canadiens.
• The Habs didn’t play poorly, but they still need to play a lot better, explains Pat Hickey.  Former Habs coach Claude Julien doesn’t want to take credit for the resurgence of former Hab winger Michael Ryder in Boston.  Roy MacGregor felt like Carey Price looked shaky last night.

Washington Capitals (2) versus New York Rangers (7)

• The question in Washington is who will man the net for Game 2?  It looks like Jeff Schultz will miss tomorrow aftrernoon’s game for the Capitals.  Viktor Kozlov can finally relax after scoring his first ever NHL playoff goal.  Sergei Fedorov’s leadership and experience is helping keep the young Capitals confident and relaxed.
• Coach John Tortorella was very happy with the play of Wade Redden and Michal Rozsival in Game 1.  Wade Redden’s experience is helping the Rangers on the back-end.  Easy on proclaiming a Wade Redden turn-around, opines Larry Brooks.

New Jersey Devils (3) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• “We got some of our confidence back, our swagger,” said Devils captain Jamie Langenbrunner.  The playoff beards are in full force on the Devils’ blue line.  Fear not Jersey fans, Johnny Oduya will be in the lineup for Game 2.
• Eric Staal and Zach Parise have been going head-to-head since they were young kids.  After a poor performance in Game 1, Cam Ward is not down on himself.  Paul Maurice says his team is not tired.

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• Speaking of a Staal brother, Jordan has become a dominant third line center for the Penguins.  Pittsburgh is expecting a vastly improved Flyers team tonight at Mellon Arena.  If this series is going deep, the Flyers need to be far more discplined.  The acquisition of Chris Kunitz has worked wonders for the Pens.  (Writer’s note: That trade has been a great one for both teams.)
• The Flyers have to get off to a quick start in Game 2.  Daniel Carcillo will not be in the lineup tonight due to his one-game suspension.  The stupid penalties need to stop, writes Phil Sheridan.

• Drury has been scratched from the Rangers lineup for Game 1.
• Sidney Crosby scores the 1st goal of the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
• Alex Ovechkin with 6 shots and 6 hits in the 1st period.  Scores 1st goal of series in 2nd.

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	NY Rangers	4					Philadelphia	1
	Wasington	3					Pittsburgh	4
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Blueshirt Banter  Japers’ Rink						Broad Street Hockey  PensBurgh
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	Carolina	1					St. Louis	1
	New Jersey	4					Vancouver	2
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Canes Country  In Lou We Trust						St. Louis Game Time  Nucks Misconduct
Game Recap						Game Recap

A few interesting things to note about the predictions:

1) The New York Rangers might as well not bother to show up. Eight predictors, eight Washington victories predicted.

2) The goaltending disparity between Chris Osgood/Ty Conklin and Steve Mason is weighing heavily on the minds of the predictors.

3) Anaheim is a team to be feared and avoided? Not according to the IC team who feel, by a seven to one margin, that the Sharks will get by their in-state cousins.

4) Four series are to close to call (Car-NJ, Pitt-Phil, CBJ-Det, and Cgy-Chi). Despite this, the only team to receive two votes for Cup champion are the New Jersey Devils, who four predictors believe won’t even get out of the first round.

5) Along the same lines of the Devils winning the cup, Zach Parise receives two votes for Conn Smythe.

6) We invite all of our Illegal Curve readers to submit their own predictions. I would be pleased to add it to the chart below upon receiving them. If we get enough entries, perhaps we will even offer a touque as a prize once I figure out some sort of convoluted scoring method. Please send your predictions to drew@illegalcurve.com . If you don’t want to be subjected to ridicule over bad predictions, but still wish to comment on our predictions (cowards!), please comment below.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) vs. Montreal Canadiens (8)

• According to an EA Sports simulation, the Bruins will beat Chicago in six games to capture the Stanley Cup.
• The Canadiens have been more than just a playoff nemesis to the Bruins, they have flat-out owned the Black ’n’ Gold over the years.
• Considering that the Bruins just delivered their finest regular season in 37 years, how about just giving every player, coach and manager an A-plus.
• Georges Laraque said he’s not surprised that he has been pencilled into the lineup for Game 1.
• Looks like the feisty Habs revel in their new underdog role instead of favorite as they were last season.

 Washington Capitals (2) vs. New York Rangers (7)

• The biggest question facing the Washington Capitals as they prepare to open the Eastern Conference first round against the New York Rangers is whether José Theodore can catch fire.
• Tarik El-Bashir was on Washington Post Live to preview the Caps’ first-round series with the Rangers.
• Maybe there is hope for the Rangers going into their opening-round series against the high-powered Capitals, but if you’re going to think that way, it’d help to have evidence.

New Jersey Devils (3) vs. Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• It could be the bounce in Martin Brodeur’s step, the beneficial result of an injury-shortened season that leaves the Devils goalie well-rested and anxious for the playoffs to begin
• Brent Sutter coached Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward for three seasons of junior hockey at Red Deer (WHL).
• Midseason coaching changes are as much a part of the NHL’s culture as playoff beards.  But how teams respond to the first phenomenon has a lot to do with whether they even get to grow the second.
• There was a time in January when the Carolina Hurricanes looked nothing like a team capable of reaching the Stanley Cup playoffs, much less one that would sizzle during the stretch run of the NHL season.
• Cam Ward has waited three years to return to this stage, this chance to prove what he did last time he was here was no accident.

 Pittsburgh Penguins (4) vs. Philadelphia Flyers (5)

• It is the contemplative aspect of angling that appeals to Pittsburgh interim coach Dan Bylsma, so it doesn’t bother him that no one can corroborate his definitive fish story
• Penguins interim coach Dan Bylsma didn’t rule out using enforcer Eric Godard against rough-and-tumble Philadelphia.

Western Conference

San Jose Sharks (1) vs. Anaheim Ducks (8) 

• It’s not as if the Sharks don’t know the Anaheim Ducks. After all, the two teams knocked heads three times in the last month of the season, twice in its final week.
• Bobby Ryan, Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry have united to help revive the Ducks and form a dominant line.
• The one and only Don Cherry voiced the original opinion that the NHL officials should let the Ducks play.

Detroit Red Wings (2) vs. Columbus Blue Jackets (7)

• The Chris Osgood factor.  The Red Wings, trying to become the first to win back-to-back Cups since they did it in 1997 and ’98, are dangerous if …
• The NHL’s salary cap is a farce.  All you have to do is look at the decade-plus contracts of Henrik Zetterberg and Johan Franzen to know that.

Vancouver Canucks (3) vs. St. Louis Blues (6)

• The Vancouver Canucks were likely preparing to face a different, higher-profile goaltender named Mason in the first round of the playoffs.
• Written off in a brutal slump in January, the Vancouver Canucks are suddenly the hottest ticket in town.
• St. Louis Blues goalie Chris Mason will be playing his 39th consecutive game and making his 34th start in a row Wednesday against Vancouver.
• Although there were indications from the Blues that Paul Kariya could be available for Game 1 Wednesday, he hasn’t made the trip to Vancouver.

 Chicago Blackhawks (4) vs. Calgary Flames (5)

• What has been a tumultuous season for Nikolai Khabibulin could well be his last one with the Blackhawks.
• As the Flames prepared for Game 1 of their playoff series against the Blackhawks, Rene Bourque skated with Jarome Iginla and Olli Jokinen on the top line.
• The smile on Jarome Iginla‘s face fades, ever so slightly, at the mere suggestion his Calgary Flames rank as underdogs heading into Round 1 of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
• As the Calgary Flames get ready for Round 1 of the Stanley Cup playoffs, bar owners, police and residents around the Red Mile are preparing for potential celebrations.

Non-Playoff Teams

• The NHL holds its draft lottery tonight with five teams having a chance at landing the No. 1 pick — and most likely Tavares.  TSN has ranked who they feel with be the top 14 picks.
• It’s not the playoffs in any sport until Las Vegas puts down its odds.
• The questions echoed off the empty locker stalls over and over Monday. What went wrong? What needs to be fixed? How can the Buffalo Sabres return to the playoffs?
• Bryan Murray spoke to the media for one last time this season, touching on everything from the failed campaign to the futures of individual players in Ottawa.
• Four different networks are gearing up to broadcast the NHL playoffs to the masses starting Wednesday and their assortment of experts are already busy making their opinions known.
• Thrashers‘ priorities this offseason: Job No. 2 for the Thrashers this summer is signing Ilya Kovalchuk to a new contract.  That might be impossible unless they complete job No. 1, finding Kovalchuk a few new teammates.
• Andrew Brunette and Mikko Koivu revealed the seriousness of their knee injuries as the Wild packed up for the offseason.
• The voice of the Oilers goes silent for a moment as he packs up his gear and leaves the broadcast booth with a cherished gift, a seat cushion, tucked under one arm.
• The Predators roster that finished the 2008-09 season may look a good bit different than the one that begins the 2009-10 campaign.
• The Dallas Stars will have to plug holes next season on a budget, co-general manager Brett Hull said as the team held exit interviews and physicals with players.
• With numerous free agents, the face of the Coyotes could dramatically change.

(Season Series: Hurricanes 3-1)

New Jersey versus Carolina.

Devils versus Hurricanes.

Number three versus number six.

The upstart Southeast underdogs against the perennially triumphant Atlantic Division aces.

In one of the most intriguing first-round matchups of the 2009 Stanley Playoffs, the piecemeal Carolina Hurricanes will attempt to play the role of super-spoiler beginning Wednesday night as they travel to the Garden State to play the suddenly nervous New Jersey Devils. 

Don’t get it twisted, this series will be tight. These teams are both experienced and have a history, having met three previous times in the playoffs (Carolina coming out victorious on two occasions). For gosh sakes, in 2006, the Hurricanes’ shocking upset of the Devils jettisoned the team to a Stanley Cup championship. 

These are different times however.

The Devils were a dominating club this season (Please see New Jersey’s multiple winning streaks or the final six games of the regular season). The three-time Stanley Cup winners are led by snipers Zach Parise, Travis Zajac, Jamie Langenbrunner and Patrik Elias and are bolstered by returnees Brian Rolston, Bobby Holik and Brendan Shanahan.  The Devils have built their team around grit and balanced scoring and there is no inherent anomaly in their make-up. 

The surprising Hurricanes, however, have tweaked their line-up substantially over the past year and have struggled at times with scattered holes on their bench (mainly on defense).  The Hurricanes have two proven scoring lines and a Conn Smythe winning goalie in Cam Ward but the acquisition (or re-acquisition) of Erik Cole at the trade deadline exposed a perceived lack of depth in the leadership department.

This series will be long, intense and at times, nasty. May the best team win.

Here is a positional break down of the two teams:

Goaltending:

The Devils are backstopped by Martin Brodeur, arguably the greatest goalie of the post-expansion National Hockey League era.  This season, Brodeur missed 50 games with a left biceps/elbow injury and still managed to break Patrick Roy’s all-time wins record.  Marty posted impressive numbers for the Devs this season (31 games played, 19-9-3, .916 GAA, five shutouts) and was surprisingly unaffected by his lengthy layoff.  A phenomenal big-game goaltender, Brodeur has been the quintessential archetype for countless young goaltenders. Though Brodeur missed more games than ever before this season, he was still dominant. Brodeur always steps his game up for the playoffs and was disgusted by the series loss to the Hurricanes three years back. Having Kevin Weekes and his knowledge of the Carolina Hurricanes shooters provides a nice edge for Coach Brent Sutter.

Hurricanes stopper Cam Ward posted the best regular season numbers of his career in 2008’09, winning 39 games, posting six shutouts and proving along the way that he is a top-5 goaltender. Ward is comfortable playing a lot of games and has grown accustomed to a less-experienced Canes defense that takes more chances.  Ward has enjoyed so much success early in his career that it is hard to believe that he is only 25 years old.  There are no flaws in Ward’s game that I am aware of and the Hurricanes will ride him as far as they can.

Edge: New Jersey

Defense:

The Devils have six solid defenseman, but no number one and few with Stanley Cup experience. Veterans Colin White and Paul Martin have been to the big show with the Devils before but rearguards such as Johnny Oduya, Niclas Havelid, Andy Greene and Mike Mottau are Cup neophytes. White is still rough-and-tumble and Martin is dynamic on the power-play but the Devils often struggle when they are caught skating around in their own zone. The Devils have always been a team that plays better with the lead (which team isn’t?) so the Devils would be wise to distribute their ice-time efficiently to avoid mismatches against the high-octane Hurricanes offense.

The Canes also boast six good defenseman, but with no real number one. Joe Corvo had 38 points this season and provides top quality speed from the back end but he is not an overwhelming offensive force like say Washington Capitals defenseman Mike Green. The Hurricanes employ more of a distributive model on the blueline. Anton Babchuk had an offensive outburst in the second half of the season and Joni Pitkanen eventually became more comfortable in his own abilities but the Hurricanes rely on the strength of their forwards for most of their offense. The Top six also includes Devil-killer Niclas Wallin, Dennis Seidenberg and Tim Gleason, players who have varying degrees of playoff experience.

Edge: Draw

Forwards:

The Devils have a small, albeit highly-skilled group of forwards that put up some pretty impressive offensive numbers this season. Zach Parise led the team with 45 goals and 94 points, while seven forwards scored 15 goals or more. Patrik Elias had an undervalued regular season, notching 31 goals and 47 assists, at times displaying the offensive mastery that was so instrumental during the Devils 2000 Stanley Cup run. Travis Zajac, Jamie Langenbrunner, Brian Rolston, Brian Gionta and Dainius Zubrus round out the top two lines and complement the exceptional speed and stickhandling abilities of Parise and Elias. The real dynamo on the Devils though is David Clarkson.  He has turned into one of the most valuable utility forwards in the NHL as he supplies both physicality and offense.  Clarkson registered 17 goals this season and can drop the gloves with the best of ‘em.

The Canes forwards are not nearly as skilled as the Devils, but they are led by one of the game’s best in Eric Staal. Forwards Ray Whitney, Rod Brind’Amour and Tuomo Ruutu were solid for the Hurricanes all year and are exemplary of a well spread-out first two scoring lines. Sergei Samsonov quietly put up 48 points this year while 2006 Stanley Cup winner Erik Cole boosted the Canes offense late in the season after being acquired from the Edmonton Oilers at the trade deadline. Grinders Chad Larose, Scott Walker and Ryan Bayda are gritty, hard-checking forwards who will be effective against a talented team like the Devils, but they are limited offensively.

Edge: New Jersey

Prediction: Devils in 7. This series will be close but New Jersey will prevail because of players like Jamie Langenbunner, Colin White, Brendan Shanahan and David Clarkson, who are willing to do whatever it takes to win.  Isn’t that what it really boils down to?

For Illegal Curve, I’m Ezra Ginsburg.

• Andrew Ebbett has quietly been very productive for the Ducks since being called up from the AHL, writes Billy Witz.
• A number of the Thrashers players are heading to the World Championships.
• Add Chuck Kobasew to the list of Bruins players that are injured, explains Kevin Paul Dupont.  Even though Boston has clinched first place in the conference, they will be geared up to face the Habs tonight.
• With yesterday’s victory at Toronto, the Sabres stayed alive in the playoff race.  Sure they stayed alive, but after reading Bucky Gleason’s article this morning, you will realize they have no chance of getting in.  At least the future looks bright, as Sabres prospect Nathan Gerbe has won AHL rookie of the year.
• The Flames are aiming to ‘get that swagger back’.   Eric Francis tells us the Flames are banking on the return of Rene Bourque and maybe even Rhett Warrener, with all the injuries they have sustained.  It is clear from listening to the Flames players that their goal is the Stanley Cup or bust.  Calgary has had its cap issues, but if you are wondering, no team can go over the cap.
• Little known Chad LaRose has been a bargain of an impact player for the Hurricanes. 
• The Blue Jackets denied the Hawks‘ bid to clinch the fourth spot in the Western Conference.  With the Hawks leading more games, Adam Burish has been involved in less fights. 
• Peter Budaj may be having a difficult season numbers wise, but his attitude is certainly respected in the room.
• “I don’t know if it has quite sunk in yet,”, said Rick Nash after his team clinched the first ever playoff spot in team history.  The fans are just as excited as the players are about the team’s first ever playoff birth.  Meanwhile, coach Hitchcock wants  Jiri Novotny to continue to play hard.
• The Stars must take a hard look at themselves.  J.J. Taylor guaranetees Mike Modano‘s return to Dallas next season.  Learn more about Stars rookie Ivan Vishnevskiy here.
• In Detroit, the Wings are expecting Andreas Lilja to miss the start of the playoffs.  If we are talking matchups, it appears the Wings are hoping to duck Anaheim.  In contract news, the Wings have tabled an offer to Johan Franzen.
• Disappointment was the catch phrase around Rexall Place on Wednesday.  With the Oilers out of playoff contention, Dwayne Roloson is finally going to get some rest.  Sam Gagner is taking the Oilers’ struggling finish to heart.  At least they can bring over Linus Omark….maybe not.
• Florida Panthers coach Pete DeBoer said he is going to make his decision on whether he starts Vokoun or Anderson today.
• In Los Angeles, Kings owner Phil Anschutz should take the Kings’ fate personally.
• Concussions have been an issue in the Wild room this season and a serious one continues to keep a frustrated Brett Burns off the ice.  The youngsters’ struggles in Minnesota may be the reason the Wild is probably going to miss the playoffs.
• Bob Gainey is searching for a winning lineup in Montreal.  Tough economy or not, there are many suitors who are aiming to purchase the Habs franchise. 
• Consecutive wins may not be enough for the Predators to make post-season play.  At least Nashville is not intimidated by Detroit, their matchup tonight.  David Legwand’s hopes of returning for the team’s final two regular season games was taken away when doctors told him his injury is still too fresh.
• The up-and-down Devils can clinch the Atlantic Division title tonight.  Martin Brodeur admits that it is tough getting in a groove when you’ve missed most of the season.
• Bill Guerin has been grateful for the opportunity to move from the Island to Pittsburgh where he has a chance to compete for the Cup.
• If the Rangers defeat the Flyers tonight, they make the playoffs.  The Rangers know they control their own destiny.
• The Senators players were happy for coach Cory Clouston on Wednesday, as he was allowed to smile upon signing a two-year contract extension.  Is Alex Auld going to stick around with Clouston?
• Flyers coach John Stevens gives you his take on a possible matchup with Carolina.  Daniel Carcillo is moving in the right direction.  Former Flyers center Keith Primeau is doing his best to help further concussion research.
• Petr Prucha has been excited about getting more ice-time in the desert as compared to NY.
• Next goal for the Penguins: Some rest, tuning up for playoffs.  Should the Pens have locked up Sid and Geno longer?  Ruslan Fedotenko has really found his game as of late.
• Patrick Marleau and Ryane Clowe are expected to return to the Sharks lineup tonight.  Ray Rotto lays down the gauntlet for the Sharks, saying it is Cup or bust.
• Injury prone defenseman Jay McKee‘s turnaround has really given the Blues a boost.  The Blues are close to throwing a big party, writes Bernie Miklasz.
• The Lightning organization is not any more stable than it was last summer.  Martin St. Louis is a great team guy.
• Cujo, May record milestones, as Leafs fall 3-1 to Sabres.  One Leafs milestone was celebratory, one wasn’t, writes Lance Hornby.  Could the Marlies be getting help from the Leafs for the AHL playoffs?
• In Vancouver, the Canucks are getting back to basics.  The Canucks have to ensure they don’t have a letdown against the Kings, with the division yet to be wrapped up.
• Caps’ Rookie Goaltender Simeon Varlamov wins confidence From Boudreau.  The Capitals have some nice organizational depth between the pipes.
• Lastly, here is an update on injured hockey player, Derek Zike from the NAHL, who appears to be recovering well.

**The IllegalCurve.com Radio Show archives of yesterday’s show with Dan Wood of the OC Register and Eric Duhatschek of the Globe & Mail should be posted on the website early this afternoon**

**Also, special thanks to David who gave a nice helping hand for the morning papers**

• The Ducks could lose the momentum they’ve gained recently because they don’t play until Friday.  Odd schedule, but the rest should only help the key veterans on the team like Niedermayer, Pronger and Selanne.
• It looks like Phil Kessel is close to returning to the Bruins lineup, as he has joined the team on its way to Ottawa.  It really is important for him to get into some game action before the playoffs begin.
• Patrick Lalime is done for the season with a hip injury.  This won’t affect the team’s playoff hopes at all.
• The Stars lines from practice today if you still care.  It really has been a disaster of a season for a team many considered to be Cup contenders.
• No Kristian Huselius again Wednesday because of a concussion.  Not something you want to rush with a possible matchup against the hard-hitting Flames in the first round.
• Craig Anderson gets the chance to continue the Panthers’ chase for the playoffs.  What a pleasant surprise he’s been this year.
• No Mathieu Schneider or Andrei Markov tonight for Montreal.  Only the team’s two best puck-moving defensemen and point-men on the power play.
• The Rangers think Nikolai Antropov will be able to play tomorrow against Montreal.  He is probably this team’s best goal-scorer right now.  Scary thought for the Blueshirt Faithful.
• Brent Sutter prefers not give players rest heading into the playoffs.  Sutter has some great lines in there.
• Simeon Varlamov will start tomorrow night in Atlanta for the Capitals.  Chance he plays in the playoffs?