It has been a whirlwind 8 months for NHL hockey fans here in Manitoba.  With the excitement of the NHL returning to Manitoba for the first time in 15+ years and the success of the season ticket drive we actually forgot that this Jets/old Thrashers team was still a young squad in development.  IC made pre-season predictions for both why the Jets would and would not make the post-season this year.

If you will recall the 2010/11 Thrashers were a surprise story of the NHL first half last season as they were competing in the Eastern Conference but faltered down the stretch and finished out of the post season.

But how do the Jets 2.0 compare?  While the December they just had was the best in franchise history was it enough to separate these new Jets from their predecessor Thrashers?

Interestingly the Jets and Thrashers have almost identical records after 41 games.

From game 42 to 61 the Thrashers went 5-11-4 and essentially fell out of the playoff hunt.  So what does this mean?  Are the Jets destined to falter in the same manner that Atlanta did last season?  How do the 2011/12 Jets to the 2010/11 compare to the Thrashers in other areas?

Taking a look at some other statistical categories you can see below that the Jets don’t give up as many shots as they did last season.  While their PP isn’t as effective they do have a better PK than the Thrashers.

Big Buff was well ahead of this season’s current points co-leaders Blake Wheeler and Evander Kane in terms of points.  Interestingly, according to Bill Tiller from the Atlanta Journal Constitution who wrote an article last year from which I was able to get the Thrashers first 1/2 season stats, both Andrew Ladd and Tobias Enstrom had 31 points at this point last year.

How does the Jets #1 tender fare against himself one year later?  He sure has played a lot more hockey this season.  His save percentage, while quite high during his first 25 games last season, cooled off during the 2nd half of the 2010/11 season and finished at .914% in 58 total games.

What does this mean?  While each season is unique and players will say what happened in the past remains in the past, it is interesting to note the improvements and lack thereof from last season to the present.  Will the Jets finish the 2nd half in a similar manner to the Thrashers?  That is entirely within their control but it will be interesting to see how this team plays during the run up to the February 27th trade deadline (23 more games).

What stats, if any, jump out at you?  Let us know your mid-season grades.

The Atlanta Thrashers were a dismal 13th place last season, 17 points out of the 8th and final playoff spot.  This is a franchise that has only made the post season once since its inception back in 1999-2000.  Will they be able to continue the success they showed as last season winded down?  Have they done enough this summer to help them get past the status of perennial non-contender or are fans in Georgia going to have to suffer through a long, uninspired winter?  (on a positive note for Thrasher fans is that the winters are quite enjoyable, temperature wise, in Atlanta).  The good news for the Thrashers is that the Southeast Division, unlike the Central Division, has been won by a number of different teams over the last few years.  The bad news is the Washington Capitals are looking like the class of the division, Tampa Bay has improved and Carolina behind a healthy Cam Ward looks to be in contention once again.  

Forwards:

The Thrashers are led by high flying captain Ilya Kovalchuk who becomes an unrestricted free agent next summer.  The good news for Thrashers fans is he seems to score goals regardless of who he is playing with.  The past four seasons he has scored 40+ goals (twice) and 50+ goals (twice).  If the trend of 50, then 40, 50, then 40 continues, this season he should manage to score 50+ goals again this season.  The Thrashers are still looking to sign the star forward to a long-term contract although he has said that he wants to see Atlanta’s commitment to winning before he will sign an extension.  GM Don Waddell said “I feel very confident that at some point — I don’t know when that point will be — but at some point, we will get a contract done”. 

Probably the biggest question marks for the Thrashers forwards isn’t whether Ilya can score, but whether he can make the other players around him better and whether Atlanta has enough secondary scoring to make them competitive with the other teams in the East?  Apparently when discussing forwards he would like to see on the team, Kovalchuk said “someone like Antropov” (who he played with during the lockout) and fortunately for him they signed Nik as a free agent.  (Adam Proteau of The Hockey News labeled this the 3rd worst free agent signing).  The expectation is that with Antropov on the right wing, Kovalchuk at left, and the reliable Todd White at center (although he could easily be exchanged for Rich Peverley) this line should produce next season.   Antropov was written off, after he had such a heralded start, and if ever there was a time for Nik to produce, it is now.  Not surprisingly the Thrashers thrived on the powerplay (especially Kovalchuk) finishing 11th last season and with big Nik Antropov in front, they should likely improve in this area.

Looking to the issue of secondary scoring the Falconer over at Bird Watchers Anonymous has made a very strong case for why Colby Armstrong will be the most valuable forward during even strength play.  Slava Kozlov, despite his age, is still an asset.  Brian Little had an excellent sophomore season and it should be exciting to watch as his impressive skill-set continues to develop.  Expectations will be high on Rich Peverley who contributed almost a point per game when he arrived from the Predators last January (Don’t expect that pace to continue but he does have some nice offensive skill). 

The general consensus regarding the #4 pick in this past season’s entry draft, Evander Kane, is that he will be starting the season with the big club.  He will likely be duking it out for 3rd line, left wing spot.  Expect him to get around 10 games in and unless he proves to be the next Jordon Staal he will likely be sent down for some more seasoning. 

The Thrashers appear to be lacking that powerful second line that can form a deadly one, two punch for Atlanta.  They have some nice role players and until we see how Kane and some of the other young guns develop, the offence will likely not be enough to give the Thrashers the boost they require.

Young guns Enstrom & Bogosian will shoulder a big load this season. Can they handle it? (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NHLI via Getty Images)

Defence:

The other big acquisition for Atlanta was the team’s trade for Pavel Kubina from the Leafs.  At 32 years of age, the 11 year pro was brought in to add some stability and experience to the young Thrasher defence.  While I question his defensive awareness at times, he is certainly an upgrade over some, for the Thrashers’ back-end.

The lion’s share of minutes would be taken by 24 year old Tobias Enstrom and 19 year old Zach Bogosian.  These two would be followed by Pavel Kubina and Ron Hainsey.  Followed by the final pairing of Boris Valabik and Anssi Salmela.

And what will the primary responsibility of these defenders be?  A number of things; 1) Improving the penalty kill.  Last season Atlanta was second last in preventing power play goals.  (only the Leafs proved more futile).  2) Preventing shots.  The Thrashers stunk in this area last season and it showed as they finished a paltry 27th, averaging 32.7 shots per game against.  Hopefully the steady influence of vets like Hainsey and Kubina will be enough to help the tall task given these young Thrashers defenceman.  However, Kubina and Hainsey are not always the most reliable in their own zone.

All eyes will be on Kari Lehtonen as he needs to seize the reins and show Atlanta that he is a #1 goalie. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NHLI via Getty Images)

Goal:

The goaltending situation hasn’t yet been set by the Atlanta coaching staff.  There will be four goalies competing at training camp for three spots.  Kari Lehtonen, who had unexpected offseason back surgery and is recovering is expected to be the number one goalie of the Thrashers.  Lehtonen’s save % (.911) was significantly better than Johan Hedberg (.886) and Ondrej Pavelec (.880).  GM Don Wadell surprised Thrasher fans by adding Drew MacIntrye, a proven AHL commodity.  Now Lehtonen is signed to a one year ($3 million) deal, which is likely a test to see if he can stay healthy (the most NHL games he’s played was 68 back in 2006-07) and keep the Thrashers in the playoff hunt.  The other three netminders will be playing for the role of back-up.  If the defence can prevent the millions of shots that Thrashers goalies are subjected to and Lehtonen can remain healthy, the goalie position could be the real wildcard for Atlanta next season. 

My Predictions:

Ceiling- If the stars align and Kovalchuk clicks with Antropov, the defence plays above its head and Lehtonen stays healthy and remains effective, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a third place finish in the Southeast Division and an 8th-10th finish overall in the Eastern Conference.

Floor- The Thrashers are likely a few good drafts choices away from really competing as an elite team in the NHL.  If the defence is given time to develop and Lehtonen can establish himself as the unequivocal #1, these guys will be able to challenge for the Southeast division title and could make waves in the playoffs.  However I just don’t think they currently possess enough firepower to compete with teams like Washington, Pittsburgh and Carolina.  So if I had to predict a finish for Atlanta it would be anywhere from 12th-15th in the East.

Thrasher Blogger Predicition:

In addition to the above analysis I thought it would be a good idea to get a quick thought from Thrashers bloggers.  These guys follow Atlanta through the ups and downs of each season, so who better to get a quick hit from them then?

the Falconer from Bird Watchers Anonymous said:
“Should compete for the playoffs and if they stay healthy qualify. Finished 9th in goals scored last season and could finish even higher this year with Antropov replacing unproductive Jason Williams/Erik Christensen.  The critical factor will be the goals allowed.  The Penalty Kill was a disaster zone last season.  Defense should be better with Kubina for Exelby swap.  If the Kovalchuk line can spend more minutes in the offensive zone that will aid the defense considerably.”

Aaron from Blueland Outsider said:
“Two points of definition for this years’ Atlanta Thrashers: chemistry and defense.  The 08-09 Thrashers didn’t click until the last 26 games of last year when they went on a tear of 16-9-1 to end the season. In the run was a pretty amazing (for the Thrashers, anyway) 9-4-0 home record. If they can keep that chemistry alive, the rest of the East needs to watch out. Offense was never the problem – Atlanta finished 7th overall in Goals For. What killed them last year was a total and utter abandonment of anything that even remotely resembled defense. At the beginning of the year, the Atlanta defense looked pretty solid: Schneider, Hainsey, Enstrom, Havelid, Exelby and some kid named Bogosian. This year, three of those names are missing, and Pavel Kubina has been added. Will the D rise up? Or will our goalies look like they just left the wrong end of the shooting range? Only time will tell…”

For a more expanded thought on why the Thrashers will do better this season, be sure to read Aaron’s latest article, Four Reasons the Thrashers will do better this season“.

Lisa from The Thrashers 411 said:
“With the new acquisitions & returning players, I am excited to see how well they come together as a team this season.  With the way the Thrashers ended the season so strong, this has given all Thrashers fans a new sense of optimism.  With the mix of young talent and veterans on the team look fr the Thrashers to have a breakout season.”

• 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.

NHL

• The Thrashers have signed Nikolai Antropov to a 4 year, $16 million contract.  As well, the team also re-signed Chris Thorburn.  A lot of cash to be throwing at Antropov but really not out of line with the ridiculous spending we’ve already seen the past day and a half.  Antropov gets a lock of criticism but he can be a 25 goal scorer and 60 point player in Atlanta. 
• Mark Recchi has re-signed in Boston for 1 year, $1 million.  Good signing for both sides.  It is reasonable and gives Recchi another shot at the Cup.
• The Flames have signed Riley Armstrong and Garth Murray.  Murray is a plugger who will help to fill out the two-way roster.  Armstrong is also a depth player but he has a bit more scoring touch.
• James Gordon of the Ottawa Citizen asks why the Oilers would even want Dany Heatley?  Couldn’t have said it better myself.

Team Canada

• As Neil mentioned early today, Marc Savard has not been invited by Hockey Canada to the team’s training camp in August.   I like Marc Savard as a player but his representation of Canada has not exactly been exemplary.  Additionally, would he slot in ahead of Crosby, Getzlaf, Richards, Lecavalier or Staal on your team?  It is arguable, but I don’t think he would.
• The Hurricanes will be represented at Team Canada’s camp with Eric Staal and Cam Ward in attendance.  Both worthy invites.
• Ryan Smyth and Joe Sakic have been invited from Colorado.  The question is, will Joe Sakic be playing hockey next season?
• Rick Nash and Steve Mason have been invited from Columbus.  As I said yesterday, Nash’s value will sky-rocket after the Olympics, so Columbus better get him signed before.
• Brenden Morrow and Stephane Robidas have been invited from Dallas.  As Heika says, a big boost in confidence for Robidas.
• The injured Brent Burns has been invited from Minnesota.  If healthy, I think he has a real shot but concussions are tricky to deal with.
• Mike Green was the only Capitals player invited.  He better shore up his defense if he wants to be in Vancouver for the tournament.
• No Steve Stamkos invite from Team Canada.  Still too young and too many good centers ahead of him.  He’ll gets his chance down the road.

• Deadline deals from the past two seasons have helped the two Cup finalists, writes Dan Wood.  Good points by Wood.  These deals weren’t “major” but added the necessary ingredients to already established teams.
• The Wings may be up 2-0, but the stats have not been tilted in Detroit’s favor as much as last season’s Cup finals.  The Penguins deserved to be down 2-0 last season, this year they really don’t deserve to be down 2-0.

Everyone else

• Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch takes a look at the Thrashers organization.  Let’s just say the only way to go is up…
• Mike Heika says Dave Tippett’s job should be secure in Dallas…for now.  I think Dave Tippett has done a good job in Dallas, so I like Nieuwendyk’s willingness to give him a chance. 
• Georege Richards recaps Jacques Martin’s time in Florida.  Martin probably feels more comfortable about his Ottawa resume.
• Here is the Montreal Gazette’s article on the hiring.  Expect far more to come once the press conference is complete.

• 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?

• Are the NY Islanders already looking for Free Agents?  Would you sign in Long Island right now?
• Update around the Sens world. 
• Flyers fans are upset with the B’s play by play announcer, Jack Edwards.  His laugh is rather maniacal.
• Preds a lock to achieve key attendance goal.  Impressive that with all the talk of a move, the fans continue to show up.
• Alex Burrows hair pull that’s being heard around the world.  I’ve used this move on my sister.  Works everytime.
• Top Av’s of all time: #6 (on the list) Rob Blake.  I usually think of him as a King first.
• Defending Forest Gump and Sidney Crosby.  In a strange sort of way her argument makes sense.
• A message to Dallas Stars fans. 
• Alexander Semin: “The Playoffs can’t start soon enough”.  It seems like the Capitals are just waiting around for the playoffs to start.
• The Swedish machine that never breaks, Nicklas Backstrom.  Guys a beast.
• Panthers fans are irate with Steve Ott.  Bet lots of NHL teams feel the same.
• The future of the Thrashers is discussed. 

• Apparently Florida fans are happy to see the Kostitsyns reunited.  Now those are twins!!
• Marty Turco is unhappy with his level of play.
• An interesting hockey innovation, Marsh Pegs.  I did not know that.
• Canes beat writer is back on the road.
• Should he stay or should he go?  That is the question many are asking about Darcy Regier.
• Marc-Andre Fleury is a shutout freak, on March 25th.

FINAL		T				FINAL SO		T
	Florida	4					NY Rangers	4
	Philadelphia	2					Atlanta	5
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
The Litter Box Broad Street Hockey						Blueshirt Banter Bird Watchers Anonymous
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL		T				FINAL OT		T
	Calgary	0					Tampa Bay	2
	Columbus	5					Montreal	3
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Matchsticks and Gasoline Light the Lamp						Raw Charge  Eyes on the Prize
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	San Jose	2					Vancouver	2
	Nashville	3					St. Louis	4
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Fear the Fin On the Forecheck						Nucks Misconduct  St. Louis Game Time
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL SO		T				FINAL		T
	Los Angeles	1					Edmonton	2
	Dallas	0					Phoenix	3
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Battle of California Defending Big D						Lowetide Five for Howling
Game Recap						Game Recap

• Blackhawks Eager suspended for three games.
• Caps coach: Ovechkin celebration won’t happen again.
• Brad Richards breaks hand in return.
• Rangers chemistry far from uns-avery.
• Betteman: Ban on fighting ‘not going to happen’.
• No. 1 pick is not Isles priority.
• Elias clears many hurdles to set Devs’ scorig marks.
• Former NHL player Walt Poddubny dies. 
• Jagr confirms Oilers rumors, says he won’t terminate contract.
• Kudos to The Litter Box for bringing us this hockey fan.
• Players react to Ovechkin’s 50th goal celebration.

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	Dallas	2					Toronto	5
	San Jose	5					Montreal	2
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Defending Big D Battle of California						Pension Plan Puppets Habs Inside/Out
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	NY Islanders	2					Buffalo	3
	Ottawa	5					NY Rangers	5
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Lighthouse Hockey  Black Aces						Die by the Blade Blueshirt Banter
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	Washington	1					Columbus	3
	Carolina	4					Florida	1
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Canes Country Japers Rink						Light the Lamp The Litter Box
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL SO		T				FINAL		T
	Atlanta	4					Vancouver	1
	Tampa Bay	3					Phoenix	5
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Bird Watchers Anonymous Raw Charge						Nucks Misconduct Five for Howling
Game Recap						Game Recap

• NHL awards show moves to Vegas. 
• St. Louis Blues say forward Keith Tkachuk is OK after injury scare.
• Martin Brodeur is closing in on another record.
• Hockey surviving, barely, on rebuilding Gulf Coast.

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	Minnesota	0					NY Islanders	4
	New Jersey	4					Carolina	5
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Hockey Wilderness In Lou We Trust						Lighthouse Hockey Canes Country

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	Philadelphia	6					Los Angeles	1
	Buffalo	4					Pittsburgh	4
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Broad Street Hockey Die By the Blade						PensBurgh

FINAL		T				FINAL SO		T
	Detroit	6					Edmonton	5
	Atlanta	3					Chicago	4
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Winging It in Mowtown						Second City Hockey

FINAL		T
	St. Louis	3
	Calgary	2
Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:
St. Louis Game Time  Matchsticks and Gasoline

In other hockey related news congrats to Martin Brodeur who passed Patrick Roy at the Prudential Center this evening in a victory over the Chicago Blackhawks.

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Chicago	0	1	1	2	32	N. Khabibulin
	New Jersey	2	1	0	3	30	M. Brodeur
Scoring Summary:
CHI:  Barker, C. (PPG, Brian Campbell, Patrick Kane), Byfuglien, D. (Matt Walker)
NJD:  Langenbrunner, J. (Zach Parise), Zajac, T. (Zach Parise, Paul Martin), Gionta, B. (SHG, Patrik Elias, Mike Mottau)
Attendance: 17,625
Headlines:
Game Review (Second City Hockey – Chicago)  Game Review (In Lou We Trust – New Jersey) Brodeur sets NHL Win record

FINAL SO		1	2	3	OT	SO	T	SOG	GOALIES
	NY Rangers	0	1	2	0	1 (3-3)	4	42	H. Lundqvist
	Montreal	0	1	2	0	0 (2-3)	3	29	C. Price
Scoring Summary:
NYR:  Antropov, N. (Chris Drury, Wade Redden), Zherdev, N. (Scott Gomez, Marc Staal), Callahan, R. (Brandon Dubinsky), Drury, C. (in SO)
MTL:  Kovalev, A. (PPG, Andrei Markov, Mathieu Schneider), Lapierre, M. (Andrei Markov), Markov, A. (Guillaume Latendresse)
Attendance: 21,273
Headlines:
Game Review (Rangers Report – NY Rangers)  Game Review (Habs Blog – Montreal)

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Buffalo	2	0	0	2	13	M. Tellqvist
	Ottawa	0	2	2	4	36	B. Elliot
Scoring Summary:
BUF:  Lydman, T. (Henrik Tallinder, Jason Pominville), Pominville, J. (Thomas Vanek)
OTT:  Heatley, D. (Jason Spezza, Chris Neil), Bell, B. (PPG, Daniel Alfredsson, Filip Kuba), Alfredsson, D. (PPG, Jason Spezza, Filip Kuba), Bell, B. (PPG, Filip Kuba, Ryan Shannon)
Attendance: 20,053
Headlines:
Game Review (Die By the Blade – Buffalo) Game Review (Silver Sevens – Ottawa)

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Atlanta	1	1	0	2	20	J. Hedberg
	Pittsburgh	2	3	1	6	31	M. Fleury
Scoring Summary:
ATL:  Little, B. (Todd White, Slava Kozlov), Boulton, E. (Chris Thorburn, Eric Perrin)
PIT:  Gonchar, S. (PPG, Bill Guerin, Evgeni Malkin), Kunitz, C. (PPG, Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin), Staal, J. (Tyler Kennedy, Kris Letang), Malkin, E. (Sergei Gonchar, Kris Letang), Malkin, E. (PPG, Sergei Gonchar, Sidney Crosby), Eaton, M. (Sergei Gonchar, Evgeni Malkin)
Attendance: 17,088
Headlines:
Game Review (PensBurgh – Pittsburgh)  Malkin surpasses 100 in Pens’ win.

FINAL SO		1	2	3	OT	SO	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Toronto	0	1	2	0	1 (2-6)	4	39	C. Joseph
	Tampa Bay	1	2	0	0	0 (1-6)	3	22	K. Ramo
Scoring Summary:
TOR:  Mitchell, J. (Jason Blake, Anton Stralman), Blake, J. (Lee Stempniak), Hamilton, J. (Boyd Devereaux, Matt Stajan), Mitchell, J. (in SO)
TBL:  Lecavalier, V. (PPG, Cory Murphy, Martin St. Louis), Stamkos, S. (PPG, Martin St. Louis, Karri Ramo), Pettinger, M. (Martins Karsums, Lukas Krajicek)
Attendance: 18,793
Headlines:
Game Review (Pension Plan Puppets – Toronto)  Game Review (Raw Charge – Tampa Bay) Artyukhin Gaining A Reputation

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Washington	0	1	2	3	27	J. Theodore
	Florida	0	0	0	0	19	T. Vokoun
Scoring Summary:
WSH:  Laich, B. (SHG, John Erskine), Kozlov, V. (Michael Nylander, John Erskine), Green, M. (EN, Alexander Semin, Alexander Ovechkin)
Attendance: 14,650
Headlines:
Game Review (Japers Rink – Washington)  Game Review (The Litter Box – Florida)

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Philadelphia	1	1	0	2	26	M. Biron
	Detroit	0	1	2	3	48	C. Osgood
Scoring Summary:
PHI:  Hartnell, S. (Braydon Coburn), Lupul, J. (Jeff Carter, Scott Hartnell)
DET:  Datsyuk, P. (Johan Franzen), Franzen, J. (Pavel Datsyuk, Brad Stuart), Zetterberg, H. (Mikael Samuelsson, Jonathan Ericsson)
Attendance: 20,066
Headlines:
Game Review (Winging It in Mowtown – Detroit)  Game Review (Broad Street Bullies – Philadelphia)

FINAL SO		1	2	3	OT	SO	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Colorado	0	2	0	0	0 (1-3)	2	26	P. Budaj
	Minnesota	0	1	1	0	1 (2-3)	3	29	N. Backstrom
Scoring Summary:
COL:  McLeod, C. (Ben Guite), Smyth, R. (Wojtek Wolski)
MIN:  Veilleux, S. (Martin Skoula, Eric Belanger), Schultz, N. (Dan Fritsche, Eric Belanger), Zidlicky, M. (in SO)
Attendance: 18,568
Headlines:
Game Review (Hockey Wilderness – Minnesota)  Game Review (Mile High Hockey – Colorado)

FINAL SO		1	2	3	OT	SO	T	SOG	GOALIES
	St. Louis	0	1	0	0	0 (0-3)	1	32	C. Mason
	Edmonton	1	0	0	0	1 (1-3)	2	34	D. Roloson
Scoring Summary:
STL:  Backes, D. (PPG, T.J. Oshie, Brad Boyes)
EDM:  Souray, S. (PPG, Denis Grebeshkov, Sam Gagner), Kotalik, A. (in SO)
Attendance: 16,839
Headlines:
Game Review (St. Louis Game Time - St. Louis)  Game Review (Edmontonoilers.com – Edmonton)

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Dallas	1	0	1	2	26	M. Turco
	Vancouver	1	2	1	4	25	R. Luongo
Scoring Summary:
DAL:  Robidas, S. (PPG, Mike Modano, Steve Ott), Ott, S. (Chris Conner, Mike Ribeiro)
VAN:  Sedin, D. (PPG, Henrik Sedin, Kevin Bieksa), Kesler, R. (Pavol Demitra, Mats Sundin), Sundin, M. (PPG, Kyle Wellwood, Ryan Kesler), Bernier, S. (Mason Raymond, Kevin Bieksa)
Attendance: 18,630
Headlines:
Game Review (Defending Big D – Dallas) Game Review (Nucks Misconduct – Vancouver)  Canucks win 10th straight at home.

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	San Jose	0	1	2	3	36	B. Boucher (L) , E. Nabokov
	Phoenix	3	0	1	4	20	I. Bryzgalov
Scoring Summary:
SJS:  Thornton, J. (PPG, Jonathan Cheechoo, Rob Blake), Thornton, J. (Rob Blake, Jonathan Cheechoo), Marleau, P. (Joe Thornton, Rob Blake)
PHX:  Turris, K. (Shane Doan, Peter Mueller), Turris, K. (PPG, Shane Doan, Dmitri Kalinin), Kalinin, D. (PPG, Kyle Turris, Shane Doan), Doan, S. (PPG, Scottie Upshall, Kyle Turris)
Attendance: 15,563
Headlines:
Game Review (Five for Howling – Phoenix)  Game Review (Fear the Fin – San Jose)

• Here’s how the Bruins lined up at practice today.  They need to get back to their defensive ways.  The Bruins looked out of sorts against Pittsburgh on the weekend.
• Mikael Tellqvist starts tonight for the Sabres.  Surprised it took this long for him to get his first start.
• The Hurricanes figured four lines isn’t enough at practice today.  Most teams wish they had that depth.
• Manny Malhotra not at Blue Jackets practice today.  Chris Gratton on the first line–YIKES!
• Nick Boynton and Anthony Stewart are healthy scratches for the Panthers tonight.  No surprise at all here.  Both these players will find themselves in and out of the lineup–but mostly out.
• Kurtis Foster will make his home debut tonight when the Wild hosts the Avalanche.  Nice to see for this must-win game.
• Some Brodeur quotes from today.  Who feels like he isn’t winning that game tonight?
• The Rangers lines from practice today.  Avery didn’t speak to the media which is not surprising but it is disappointing if you enjoy that type of entertainment.
• Empty Netters previews what the Penguins will go up against tonight.  I’m feeling like that Thrashers streak ends tonight.
• Jose Theodore starts for the Capitals tonight.  Don’t tell me you aren’t nervous Caps fans…

• The Bruins lines from practice today.  Will the Bruins be able to carry some momentum after defeating Ottawa?
• The Sabres feel good about themselves heading into tomorrow’s game versus Atlanta.  If you are a serious playoff contender, you have to beat Atlanta at home.
• Martin Havlat is slated to return to the Hawks lineup tonight versus Columbus.  Will lineup with Bolland and Ladd.
• No Steve Mason for the Jackets tonight.  Wade Dubielewicz gets the start, as the Jackets play four games this week.
• Looks like Jaroslav Halak will start tomorrow for the Habs.  Price was great last night.
• Jason Arnott seems to have a concussion and will sit out Saturday’s game.  He missed last night’s game too, which is a huge loss for a team that can’t score.
• John Tortorella has already benched Nikolai Zherdev.  This certainly wasn’t predictable…

Here is a video I took of the Red Wings powerplay in the 3rd period which ends with Rafalski’s PPG and a roar from the 20,066 fans in attendance. 

My Winnipeg Jets hat was underappreciated except by one hard core hockey fan.  Has it really been that long?  Alas I was unable to start a Go Jets Go chant.  I expected to see a few Wpg jerseys but it appears I was the lone Manitoba resident at the game.

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Calgary	1	0	1	2	37	M. Kiprusoff (L) , C. McElhinney
	New Jersey	0	2	1	3	31	M. Brodeur
Scoring Summary:
CGY:  Jokinen, O. (David Moss, Michael Cammalleri), Glencross, C. (PPG, Michael Cammalleri, Dustin Boyd)
NJD:  Langenbrunner, J. (SHG, Colin White, Paul Martin), Rolston, B. (PPG, Niclas Havelid, Brendan Shanahan), Parise, Z. (Jamie Langenbrunner, Travis Zajac)
Attendance: 14,598
Headlines:
Brodeur moves within 2 wins of record. A summary of the game from Calgary Flames.

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Buffalo	1	0	1	2	29	P. Lalime (L) , M. Tellqvist
	Philadelphia	1	0	4	5	33	M. Biron
Scoring Summary:
BUF:  Afinogenov, M. (Teppo Numminen), Hecht, J. (Paul Gaustad)
PHI:  Hartnell, S. (PPG, Claude Giroux, Mike Richards), Carter, J. (Joffrey Lupul, Scott Hartnell), Richards, M. (PPG, Kimmo Timonen, Simon Gagne), Carter, J. (Joffrey Lupul, Scott Hartnell), Hartnell, S. (Kimmo Timonen)
Attendance: 19,421
Headlines:
Carter dominate in Flyers victory. A summary of the game from the Flyers. And one from Die By The Blade.

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Boston	0	0	0	0	35	T. Thomas
	Columbus	0	0	2	2	34	S. Mason
Scoring Summary:
CBJ:  Torres, R. (PPG, Antoine Vermette, Jason Williams), Nash, R. (EN, Mike Commodore)
Attendance: 16,675
Headlines:
Mason makes 35 saves for 9th shutout. A summary of the game from Puck-rakers. And one from The Bruins Blog.

FINAL OT		1	2	3	OT	T	SOG	GOALIES
	NY Islanders	2	0	0	0	2	30	J. MacDonald
	Toronto	1	0	1	1	3	28	M. Gerber
Scoring Summary:
NYI:  Okposo, K. (Sean Bergenheim, Frans Nielsen), Comeau, B. (Josh Bailey, Mike Iggulden)
TOR:  Stempniak, L. (Jeff Finger, Jason Blake), Ponikarovsky, A. (unassisted), Grabovski, M. (IN OT, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Anton Stralman)
Attendance: 19,041
Headlines:
Grabovski‘s goal drought ends in OT.  A summary of the game from TMLfans. And one from Lighthouse Hockey.

FINAL OT		1	2	3	OT	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Edmonton	0	3	0	0	3	32	D. Roloson
	Montreal	1	1	1	1	4	26	C. Price
Scoring Summary:
EDM:  Cogliano, A. (Steve Staios, Sheldon Souray), Souray, S. (Ales Hemsky, Patrick O’Sullivan), Gagner, S. (Marc Pouliot, Denis Grebeshkov)
MTL:  Tanguay, A. (Mathieu Schneider, Josh Gorges), Metropolit, G. (Mathieu Dandenault), Koivu, S. (Andrei Kostitsyn, Alex Tanguay), Koivu, S. (PPG in OT, Mathieu Schneider, Andrei Markov)
Attendance: 21,273
Headlines:
Habs win Gainey‘s debut.  A summary of the game from the Oilers. And one from Habs Inside/Out.

FINAL SO		1	2	3	OT	SO	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Florida	0	3	0	0	0 (0-2)	3	21	T. Vokoun
	Pittsburgh	1	0	2	0	1 (2-3)	4	50	M. Fleury
Scoring Summary:
FLA:  Boynton, N. (David Booth, Keith Ballard), Kreps, K. (Nick Boynton, Cory Stillman), Ballard, K. (Ville Peltonen, Radek Dvorak)
PIT:  Malkin, E. (Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang), Staal, J. (Matt Cooke, Tyler Kennedy), Crosby, S. (Bill Guerin, Chris Kunitz), Letang, K. (00:00 in SO)
Attendance: 17,132
Headlines:
Penguins rally for seventh straight win.  A summary of the game from PensBurgh.

FINAL OT		1	2	3	OT	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Phoenix	1	0	1	0	2	25	I. Bryzgalov
	Detroit	1	0	1	1	3	43	T. Conklin
Scoring Summary:
PHX:  Hanzal, M. (Brandon Prust, Todd Fedoruk), Doan, S. (PPG, Ed Jovanovski, Steve Reinprecht)
DET:  Filppula, V. (Johan Franzen, Niklas Kronwall), Rafalski, B. (PPG, Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Zetterberg), Franzen, J. (In OT, Brad Stuart, Valtteri Filppula)
Attendance: 20,066
Headlines:
Franzen ties a career high with his 27th in OT. A summary of the game from Detroitredwingsfansite.

FINAL OT		1	2	3	OT	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Washington	0	1	0	1	2	44	J. Theodore
	Nashville	1	0	0	0	1	28	D. Ellis
Scoring Summary:
WSH:  Backstrom, N. (Alexander Ovechkin, Viktor Kozlov), Fedorov, S. (In OT, Viktor Kozlov, Alexander Semin)
NSH:  Suter, R. (Shea Weber, Martin Erat)
Attendance: 16,064
Headlines:
Ellis 42 saves not enough for Preds.

FINAL OT		1	2	3	OT	T	SOG	GOALIES
	San Jose	2	1	1	1	5	23	B. Boucher
	Minnesota	0	1	3	0	4	29	N. Backstrom
Scoring Summary:
SJS:  Thornton, J. (Travis Moen, Christian Ehrhoff), Moen, T. (SHG, unassisted), Thornton, J. (PPG, unassisted), Michalek, M. (Ryane Clowe, Dan Boyle), Ehrhoff, C. (In OT, unassisted)
MIN:  Olvecky, P. (Cal Clutterbuck, Marc-Andre Bergeron), Bouchard, P. (Kim Johnsson), Nolan, O. (Marek Zidlicky, Mikko Koivu), Nolan, O. (Mikko Koivu)
Attendance: 18,568
Headlines:
Sharks blow 3 goal lead but win in OT. A summary of the game from Hockey Wilderness.

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Dallas	0	2	0	2	22	T. Stephan
	St. Louis	3	2	0	5	27	C. Mason
Scoring Summary:
DAL:  Neal, J. (PPG, Mike Modano, Trevor Daley), Ribeiro, M. (unassisted)
STL:  Backes, D. (Alexander Steen, Jay McKee), Perron, D. (Carlo Colaiacovo, Mike Weaver), Winchester, B. (PPG, David Backes, Roman Polak), Perron, D. (T.J. Oshie), Tkachuk, K. (PPG, Brad Boyes, Carlo Colaiacovo)
Attendance: 17,708
Headlines:
Blues continue playoff push.  A summary of the game from St. Louis Game Time. And one from Defending Big D.

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Atlanta	0	2	1	3	36	K. Lehtonen
	Colorado	0	0	0	0	35	P. Budaj
Scoring Summary:
ATL:  Bogosian, Z. (Ilya Kovalchuk, Bryan Little), White, T. (PPG, Slava Kozlov, Ilya Kovalchuk), Peverley, R. (EN, unassisted)
Attendance: 13,608
Headlines:
Lehtonen gets 2nd shutout in last 3 games. A summary of the game from Mile High Hockey.