Ken Holland – The increase in scoring coming out of this seasons lockout.  The similarities of the retirements of Yzerman and Lidstrom and how they effected the team.  How the recently retired Tomas Holmstrom was such an effective player.  Taking the time to fully develop a player.  The evolution of Mike Babcock as a coach.  Lengthening overtime.  Playing games outside of their own time zone.

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.

Central Division

• If this is just Marian Hossa’s adjustment period, it will be scary to see what he can do at full steam, writes Chris Kuc.  “I think we can learn off some of the things he does with and going into puck areas. A lot of good things happen when he’s on the ice,” said coach Joel Quenneville about Hossa’s presence.
• Derick Brassard lacks a bit of confidence so far this season, explains Tom Reed.  One of Derek MacKenzie or Mike Blunden could find themselves going through waivers this week.  Here are the Blue Jackets’ projected lines for tonight’s game.
• Valtteri Filppula had his cast removed on Tuesday and is slated to return later this month.  With many injuries on the team, Justin Abdelkader has been given more responsibility and coach Mike Babcock has been happy with his play.
• Martin Erat recorded a hat trick last night, which prompted Barry Trotz to talk about the value of getting shots on net, as the Predators defeated the visiting Canucks.  Meanwhile, the Predators are hoping Jerred Smithson’s penalty on Alexandre Burrows is rescinded.
• Many Blues have had scoring trouble this season, so coach Andy Murray had his team practice hitting the goalie and going to the net on Tuesday.

Northeast Division

• Playing without Robyn Regehr has been the Flames’ downfall in the past, so Flames fans have to be hoping that his injury isn’t serious.  Colby Armstrong will have many family members in the Saddledome tonight when the Thrashers visit the Flames.
• Joe Sacco was happy enough with his club on Tuesday that he gave them the day off, explains Terry Frei.
• Jim Matheson answers reader’s questions in the Edmonton Journal.  Lubomir Visnovky and Ladislav Smid have developed some nice chemistry on the Oilers’ back-end.  Jeff Deslauriers has played well enough that he’s made people stop asking when Nikolai Khabibulin is returning to the lineup.
• Mikko Koivu was many people’s pick for Wild captain prior to the season and he is sure proving his worth in that position, explains Michael Russo.
• “Right now we have guys who can play a lot better, who have to play a lot better,” said an angry Alain Vigneault after yesterday’s loss to Nashville.  Mikael Samuelsson was so unhappy after the game that he refused to talk to the media.  When is Cody Hodgson going to return from a back injury?

Pacific Division

• Just when you had the Ducks written off, the team stormed back from a three-goal deficit and pulled out an important overtime victory at home against Dallas, writes Eric Stephens.  With Teemu Selanne injured, both Bobby Ryan and Joffrey Lupul will be counted on to carry the load.
• “That can’t happen, it just can’t happen,” said Stars captain Brenden Morrow after the team blew a 3-0 road lead to Anaheim.  Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News likes what he’s seen from youngster Ivan Vishnevskiy.
• Wayne Simmonds has taken advantage of the opportunities that coach Terry Murray has provided for him this season in Los Angeles.
• There are a number of reasons why the Coyotes are surprising the NHL, but strong penalty killing is definitely one of them.
• After some early season struggles, Ryane Clowe has found his game in the Bay Area.

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The Detroit Red Wings last season were one game away from repeating as Stanley Cup Champions.  The wounds from that loss are still fresh and should serve as motivation for this season.  They would have been the first team to repeat since the Red Wings of 96/97 and 97/98.  GM Ken Holland has been very busy all summer ensuring that the Wings will be back on top of the Central division this season.

And quite the busy summer it has been for the GM.  The Wings lost a ton of scoring; Marian Hossa left for Chicago (40 goals), Jiri Hudler left for the KHL (23 goals), Mikael Samuelsson went to Vancouver (19 goals) and Tomas Kopecky, who joins Hossa in Chicago (6 goals). 

However GM Ken Holland did what he could to stem the tide as he added a couple of former Wings Todd Bertuzzi & Jason Williams, Patrick Eaves, Doug Janik and two Leafs prospects in Jeremy Williams, Kris Newbury.

Now the Wings lost a lot of scoring (88 goals from the above listed players) and while the new additions are not even in the same stratosphere in terms of scoring, you don’t make the playoffs every year since 1989/90 and win 13 Central division titles (technically 12, as 1 was a Norris) by not learning to use the resources you have at your disposal.

So the Wings have some big questions to answer this upcoming season, namely;  1) How will the loss of all that scoring power be offset?  2) Can they regain a top tier penalty kill? and finally 3) Can the improvements by their Central Division competition, knock them from the top?

Forwards:

While the loss of Hossa, Hudler and Samuelsson has diminished the scoring depth of the Wings, Detroit doesn’t exactly have a bare cupboard at forward. 

Now I could speculate on line combos but courtesy of an interview today by Chris McCosky of the Detroit News this is what the Coach had to say regarding his potential line combos:

“A key battle would be for the third center position. He has Helm penciled in as the fourth-line center. Zetterberg, Datsyuk and Valtteri Fippula are the team’s three top centers.  Babcock is hoping that enough wingers emerge so that he doesn’t have to use Datsyuk and Zetterberg on the same line.”

So it would appear that he will be splitting Zetterberg and Datsyuk (haven’t we heard that before?) to spread out the offence and give the Wings more depth.  Both are top NHL centers/winger and can dominate a game when they choose.  It is actually interesting to see both these players at work, as Datsyuk is a little bit more flashy with his tremendous stick-handling ability and puck possession skills; but Zetterberg is probably equally difficult to knock off the puck and is maybe the best two-way player in the NHL today. 

Johan Franzen’s production continues to rise over the past three seasons and this trend should continue for the man known as “The Mule.”  He just has a nose for the net, which is obviously helped by his ridiculously good shot–he scores from angles most players only dream of.  Furthermore, Franzen is willing to go to the dirty areas to score, so as long as he stays healthy, he should continue to score at the levels he has in the past.

While they might be split up during Even Strength play, will Pavel and Henrik continue to scare the opposition during the power play? (Photo courtesy of mlive.com)

The heavy lifting is going to have to come from the shoulders of some pretty big men.  Daniel Cleary is going to have to improve on his 14 goals from last season, a healthy Todd Bertuzzi will need to generate more than 15 and even Valtteri Filppula is going to need to step it up in the absence of Hossa’s goal scoring.

Of the three, Filppula possess the most god-given talent and he has the ability to take his game to the next level.  Cleary just needs to continue going to the net and will have the motivation of a possible Team Canada spot pushing his first-half play.  As for Bertuzzi, he was not impressive in Calgary last season, he struggled immensely defensively and was really only serviceable on the power play, but the Wings are hoping his veteran presence puts pressure on the youngsters to step up their games to earn ice-time, and vice versa.

Jason Williams is a useful player that can skate and play the point on the power play, as well as add some nice offense from the wing.  He is not a great two way player but he seems to post respectable point totals wherever he ends up.

Another off-season acquisition Patrick Eaves brings a cheap, physical presence to the wing–as he is a very strong player along the boards.  He actually has decent hands too, and he could very well be the most productive of the team’s off-season pick-ups.

With Jiri Hudler gone to the KHL, expect Ville Leino to eat many of Hudler’s lost minutes.  Hudler was a tremendously efficient offensive player but his defensive deficiencies cut into Mike Babcock’s trust, so if Leino proves responsible at both of ends of the ice, his offensive game will see more ice-time.  He is capable of scoring over 20 goals this season if he stays healthy.

Of course we would be remiss if we left out old reliable Tomas Holmstrom.  Of course you can find him taking a beating in front of the opposing team’s net and there is no reason to believe this season will be any different from the rest.  Holmstrom has become a leader on this Wings squad and will continue to serve the team well.

On the depth lines, the Wings boast the speedy and active Darren Helm, veteran face-off specialist Kris Draper and veteran penalty killer Kirk Maltby.  Helm is on his way up, while the other two are closing in on the final seasons of their respective careers, but all three will be important in any prolonged Detroit run in the post-season.

Finally, it appears that Michigan fans won’t have to worry about hearing the MSU fight song played too often at ‘the Joe’ as playoff sensation Justin Abdelkader is expected to play in the minors to continue his seasoning.  But when he does finally arrive, here is some of what the Wings get to look forward to:

One of the things I thought the Wings were missing last season was some grit.  It has been said that you can never have too many skill players but perhaps Detroit was missing some of that bang and crash, and with the additions they have made, it will hopefully open it up for the skill players like Zetterberg and Datsyuk.

Defence:

In that same Detroit News article, Coach Babcock made an important declaration which takes us to the 2nd part of the question as to whether the Wings can continue to dominate the West and that was;

“Maybe if we don’t let so many goals in this year, we won’t have to score as many. We have to find a level there.”

The Wings probably have one of the top D cores in the NHL and they will need to be if the Wings are expecting to succeed this season.  Ken Holland said as much during an interview with George Malik of the Snapshots blog when discussing the scoring the Wings had lost back on August 20th,

“We’re not going to be able to replace them all, but hopefully we can replace about 50-60 of them, and we’re going to have to be better defensively.”

Will Wings captain Lidstrom be raising his arms in victory this season? (Photo courtest of cbc.ca)

The starting five of Nicklas Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Niklas Kronwall, Brad Stuart and Jonathan Ericsson are set.  That is a terrific looking group. 

What else can you say about Lidstrom?  He has been the best defenseman in the NHL for so long, that we have become used to his tremendous play–even as he closes in on 40 years old.  Lidstrom is arguably the best positionally sound defenseman of his era and moves the puck as well as anyone who plays rearguard.

In Rafalski, the Wings have another supreme puck-mover; however, his defensive skills aren’t at a top pairing level (he was beaten numerous times during the playoffs last season).  In fact, the team’s second best defenseman is most likely the young, hard-hitting Niklas Kronwall.  The big Swede can skate like the wind (especially for big player) and hits harder than maybe anyone since Scott Stevens.  Moreover, he has terrific puck skills.

Kronwall will be joined on the team’s 1B pairing with smooth skating Brad Stuart.  Stuart has found a home in Detroit after moving around the NHL (San Jose, Boston, Calgary) and has become a more aggressive player over the years.  He also make a good first pass, but doesn’t possess the power play quarterbacking ability–however, that isn’t necessary in Detroit anyhow.

The youngster Ericsson was actually drafted as a forward.  He is big, uses his long stick to his advantage and plays a mean game.  His youth was evident at times during the playoffs, he took some penalties he probably won’t take in two-to-three years, but his talent is unquestionable.

The final member of the Wings top six would normally be Andreas Lilja who will likely start the season on the long term injured reserve as he is still suffering from post concussion symptoms from this punch to the head delivered by Shea Weber. 

So who will be Detroit’s 6th and 7th defenceman while Lilja recovers?  It would appear that the Wings favour Lebda for the final pairing and Winnipeg’s Derek Meech as number seven.  If Lilja returns he would be the sixth defenceman for the Wings and since GM Ken Holland has declared that the Wings won’t carry 8 defencemen, it would appear that Derek Meech (unless he wow’s Babcock during training camp and beginning of season) will be extraneous and likely traded.

Hopefully for the Wings, Ericsson is ready to step up in his first full season with Detroit.  Expectations are high and playing with Lidstrom and Rafalski should help with his development.

The most important area for the Wings defence to improve collectively as a unit is on the penalty kill.  Since the lockout the PK has seen a steady to rapid decline in effectiveness.  From a lofty 3rd spot in 2005/06 (85.5%), which was followed up in 2006/07 with the Wings falling to 6th overall (84.6%), to 8th in 2007/08 (84%) and finally all the way down to 25th last season, killing off a measly 78.3%. 

If there is one area in which they will have to improve it is during the penalty kill if they hope to offset the loss of scoring.

Will Osgood be left to fend for himself this season? (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Goal:

The goaltending situation in the ‘D’ always seems to make fans nervous.  Chris Osgood is the Rodney Dangerfield of hockey; he just can’t get ‘no respect’.  Despite this, he will be the #1 goalie for the Wings next season. 

With the departure of Ty Conklin to the Blues, the goalie of the ‘future’ (for the past 5 years), Detroit’s 64th pick in the 2003 draft, Jimmy Howard is ready to assume the mantle.  Well, the mantle of Osgood’s back-up as he gets some more NHL seasoning.  However he probably shouldn’t get too comfortable in that back-up role as Dan Cloutier is attempting to resurrect his career.  After taking a year off from hockey he put in a call to Wings GM Ken Holland to request a training camp invite.  Opinion is divided as to whether Holland really wants Cloutier as a back-up or if he is at camp to push Howard. 

The key to success (at least in the future) is what is coming up from the Grand Rapids Griffins.  Last season Daniel Larsson went 22 W with 12 L with a 2.76 GAA and a SV % of 0.907 backing up Howard and is expected to be the starter for Grand Rapids.    His backup will likely be 22 year old Jordan Pearce (University of Notre Dame free agent signing) and if this ‘hockey business’ doesn’t work out he has offers to go to medical school, which he has put on hold until he sees how his hockey career develops.  In the Wings stable of goalies, 19 year old Thomas McCollum (2008 draft, 1st Round, 30th overall) is seen as a ‘sure thing’ (of course so was Howard 5 years ago) and will be battling Pearce for the back-up role in Grand Rapids.  Pretty much one of these three will be the goalie of the future in Detroit.

However Wings fans can rest assured that, despite the fact that Chris Osgood has played 131 games (regular & playoff) over the past 2 seasons, his GAA went up a full goal last season (from 2.09 to 3.09) and his save % has gone from .914 t0 .887,  he should have enough in the tank, with one of the most solid defensive groups in front of him, to lead Detroit to another central title and a long playoff run.  And just in case that isn’t enough, recall this save he made in Game 1 of the Finals versus Malkin with the score tied a 1.

Class of Competition:

Which leads us to the final question for the Wings this season; Can the improvements by their Central Division competition, knock them from the top?

Chicago Blackhawks – These guys will be the one team that can catch Detroit but the biggest question mark for me is can Huet replace Nikolai Khabibulin?  For a game or two he did a good job in the playoffs (none bigger than this save on Franzen during Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals).  Lost Havlat, added Hossa.  Should be interesting.

St. Louis Blues – Only big free agent addition was Ty Conklin (if that can be called big).  Now last season’s big run to the playoff’s was all the more impressive in that it was accomplished without Erik Johnson, who was out for the season following a pre-training camp knee injury, Eric Brewer who required surgery to his back which ended his season in December and even Paul Kariya, who had surgery on his hips.  I think the Blues might be the team that surprises everyone next season.

Columbus Blue Jackets – From IC’s Ari here are his thoughts on the Jackets ceiling; Columbus has the potential to finish second or third in the Central division and be the team that no one wants to face in the first round of the playoffs. Anywhere from 4th to 6th is possible as long as Mason plays as well as last year. Columbus has basically the same team as last year, including many young players that should only improve.  And most recently we have Coach Hitchcock calling for the Wings blood.

Nashville Predators – Just has a solid team.  Nothing flashy.  But as Andreas Lilja learnt last season, they have the grit to punch you in the mouth as well as enough grind to score some solid, but not flashy goals.  Very good coach.  Question mark as to which goalie will be #1.

My Predictions:

Ceiling- While the Wings have lost a big chunk of scoring, and the Hawks have improved (at least at forward), they still have enough character to win the Central division (although I expect it to be closer than last season’s 8 points), finishing either 1st or 2nd in the Western Conference.  I could see them making it to the Western Conference finals, where age and fatigue might finally catch up to them.  They are still a threat to win the Cup.

With this core healthy, the Wings should go far. (Photo courtesy of mlive.com)

Floor- Could age and fatigue finally catch up to the Wings?  Well I don’t anticipate it doing so (this season) but if it does, we could see them slip to 2nd in the Central (behind the Hawks) and perhaps a loss in the 2nd round of the playoffs.  We know the Wings have lost some punch and the biggest question to be answered is, has the rest of the Central caught up to them? 

Wing Blogger Thoughts:

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

Casey from Winging it in Mowtown said:
“The Red Wings will be fine if they are able to return the defense to its old form. They need this to happen instead of hoping it will happen after the departure of 88 goals from last year’s roster. This year’s team will likely be more physical which I think will eventually open up the ice for the playmakers to get their work in. The biggest question for me is Jimmy Howard’s ability to be a fulltime back-up to Chris Osgood. Other than that, the Wings will be back in the playoffs. I’m not calling a division title yet, or anytime soon, with the number of pick-ups the Blackhawks made but I
would truly be shocked if this squad didn’t make the playoffs.”

Kris from Snipe Snipe Dangle Danlge said:
“I expect them to be perfectly fine.  If they can stay healthy, there’s no reason they can’t go deep into the playoffs again.  They’ve got more than enough skill and motivation to get the job done.  The whole team is going to recommit itself to defense, and that will be the key to their success this year.  Most people outside of Detroit have been having fun this summer predicting the downfall of the Wings, but they’ve failed to account for two things:

1)Those same predictions have been being made for the last ten years or so, and not a single one of them has come true.  It’s the same “too old” “too slow” “washed up” nonsense that I’ve been scoffing at since before I knew what the word “geriatric” meant. 

2) Despite the fact that a lot of offense left the team thanks to free agency and the KHL, the guys who are being promoted from Grand Rapids are more than able to pick up the slack.  There’s a lot of excitement around Hockeytown about the prospect of seeing full seasons from Darren Helm, Jonathan Ericsson, and Ville Leino.  These guys aren’t your average rookies.  They’ve all been through a lengthy playoff run (in Helm’s case, two), and didn’t look at all out of place on hockey’s biggest stage.  I would think that if the hockey world had learned one thing over the last decade, it would be to never doubt Ken Holland and the Red Wings’ development system.”

Tyler from The Triple Deke said:
“As the summer has worn on, and the Wings have done what they could with their limited cap space, I’ve grown increasingly optimistic about 2010.  My level of concern for how this team will hold up over the course of a 4th straight deep playoff run has subsided a somewhat.  Of course I worry about Zetterberg, Kronwall and Franzen being a bit injury prone, and I worry about Osgood, Lidstrom and Rafalski’s age — but I just don’t think that’s going to be a deciding factor.  It was sickening after Fleury made that last save in Game 7, and I think that losing on home ice like that is going to drive them for the next 9 months.  I wouldn’t be surprised if they have a better season than last year despite losing Hossa, Hudler and Samuelsson.  (Note: I usually I feel obligated to throw Kopecky in that group, but after watching him have little impact as a Wing and then laughing when the Hawks gave him $2.4 million, it feels a little frivolous.)  People who don’t watch the Wings regularly already know about the big guns, but guys like Valtteri Filppula, Ville Leino, Darren Helm and Jonathan Ericsson are going to play a bigger role this year.  Filppula has a world of talent coming off of an excellent playoff run, and he could take a leap forward in 2010.  His career high in points is only 40 (last year), but he has some 20 goal / 40-50 assist seasons in him — it’s just a matter of when he puts it all together. 

Also, I just don’t think the other teams in the West got that much better, so on paper at least, the Bertuzzi and Williams downgrades don’t seem so bad.  The Flames bolstered their blue line and lost some scoring; the Hawks have a few months of Hossa and still have Huet in net; the Sharks couldn’t do a whole lot; the Ducks added Koivu and Lupul but lost one of the top 3 or 4 defenseman in Pronger; and so goes the story of salary cap.  I’m 100% biased, but I still say the Wings have the deepest crop of forwards and defenseman, plus maybe the best coach.  So for the umpteenth year in a row, it’s another Red Wings season where expectations are all-or-nothing.”

Matt from On the Wings said:
“I expect the Wings to be great this year. They’ll have plenty of motivation and should be playing with a chip on their shoulders. The Game 7 loss won’t be forgotten and while they certainly have no need to prove anything to anyone, they will want to show that they can get right back there. They took some hits in the off-season personnel-wise so they may not be the best in the league in the regular season, but you can bet they’ll be tops when it comes time for the playoffs. Despite the majority opinion in the hockey world this summer, I wouldn’t bet against them this year. ”

Chris from Motown Wings said:
“For the Wings this season, it’s all goign to come down to consistency on defense. Despite losing a solid chunk of scoring to free agency, the Wings have patched the holes enough to make up some points, but nothing can substitute for solid defensive play. I look for Brad Staurt, Niklas Kronwall and Jonathan Ericsson to step their games up and learn to play a stingier, more hungry defensive style, and for Nicklas Lidstrom to set the tone for the blue-liners with his consistent play and savvy leadership skills. 

• Landon Ferraro has impressed so far at Wings prospect camp.  It’s in the bloodlines, plus you always have to trust anyone that the Wings’ brass believes worthy of a high draft pick.
• Here is a look at Nikolai Khabibulin’s new Oilers helmet.  Nice looking mask.
• The Canucks don’t want this travel issue to affect the team’s already ridiculous travel schedule.  I see this situation getting worked out.
• Capitals prospect Joe Finley has apparently been injured on the first day of Capitals camp.  No word on the severity of the injury for the massive defenseman turned forward.

“The story’s over. He’s going to play in Russia,” Holland said. “We’re waiting on the terms (of the salary arbitration case) he has to (honor) if and when he returns to the NHL.”

Read the story here.

This story broke earlier on Sportsnet, with the opposite being reported.  However, this now clarifies the issue.  Hudler is gone to the KHL and the Wings have a big hole to fill now that his offense will be missing from the lineup.  I think most would agree that he was seen as a very good replacement for much of Marian Hossa’s offense. 

• 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.   

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Red Wings defenseman Brad Stuart says it is “kind of surreal” to have your season success determined by just one game.  Wings GM Ken Holland says that in this situation, you cannot let your mind wander off.  Pittsburgh coach Dan Bylsma really doesn’t remember Mike Babcock’s Game 7 speech from 2003.  Drew Sharp says that the Wings have all the pressure tonight.  Speaking of pressure, it does not bother Chris Osgood.  Wings defensemen Brian Rafalski is a favorite in his home state.  Not only is Rafalski the favorite son in Michigan, but he is also very experienced in Game 7s.  The distance in this game tonight is between never and forever, writes Mitch Albom.
• Evgeni Malkin has been dreaming of holding the Cup with Sidney Crosby.  With Game 7 only hours away, the talk does not matter anymore; all both teams have to do is play.  Once the puck is dropped, adrenaline should carry the players through the entire game.  All the numbers in favor of Detroit winning tonight do not mean anything to Pittsburgh.  The Stanley Cup has a special place in Dan Bylsma’s mind.  Mario Lemieux has full confidence in his Pittsburgh players.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• It appears that long-time Avalanche checker Ian Laperriere has one foot out the door.
• People in Minnesota believe that Todd Richards is still the favorite to be hired as the new coach of the Wild.
• John Gonzalez of the Philadelphia Inquirer wonders if Ray Emery brought his baggage with him back from Russia?
• Ray Ratto of the San Francisco Chronicle examines the Sharks’ outlook for next season.
• Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal says Dany Heatley is exactly what the Oilers need.  In other Oilers news, the team has let go Pete Peeters as goaltending coach.
• The province of Quebec is willing to give a loan to any Quebec based groups interested in buying the Canadiens.

The Marc Crawford hiring

• “His biggest asset is the way he holds all his players accountable,” said Stars center Brendan Morrison, who played for Marc Crawford in Vancouver.
• Joe Nieuwendyk went about hiring Crawford the old school way, writes Mike Heika.
• Here is a recap of former Stars coach Dave Tippett’s tenure in Dallas.
• Most people in the game, do not believe Dave Tippett will be out of work for long.

The Coyotes situation

• “If the Buffalo Sabres’ silence means that they are working against Hamilton’s bid, then Hamilton and the surrounding area residents should join in boycotting the Buffalo Sabres along with the Toronto Maple Leafs,” said a Hamilton city councillor.
• Jim Balsillie is convinced that a June 22nd auction is good for his efforts to bring the team to Hamilton.
• Can the city of Hamilton afford an NHL team?
• Stephen Brunt of the Globe & Mail questions the NHL’s due diligence process.

AHL Calder Cup Final

• Gary Lawless of the Winnipeg Free Press sets the stage for tonight’s Game 6 of the Calder Cup.  With so many veterans on the roster, the Moose are not panicking.  Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun explains that the Moose organization didn’t set up the team’s homecoming at the airport two days ago, rather, it was the Winnipeg Airport staff.  (Writer’s note: Nice gesture by the airport staff to get behind the local team.)

Stanley Cup Final

• Penguins fans are calling this “The Shift 2,” courtesy of Brooks Orpik.  The Penguins’ entire defense corps really is underrated.
• Here are the lines from the Wings’ last practice of the season.  Datsyuk still with Zetterberg.

Everyone else

• Mike Heika has Dave Tippett’s reaction to his dismissal.  I don’t think Tippett will be out of a job for long. 
• Heika also provides us with Marc Crawford’s career coaching record.  Not being saddled with Sakic and Forsberg down the middle sure makes life more difficult doesn’t it?
• The Sabres are expected to put forward a statement regarding the Coyotes situation once a decision in court has been made.  They can’t be in favor of such a move, and who can blame them?  Obviously they will want a lot of money to allow for the move to happen.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Writing for USA Today, Jacques Demers likes the Wings in Game 7.  (Writer’s note: Kelly Hrudey also picked the Wings last night on the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show.)  (Second writer’s note: You figure if Demers is submitting a piece to USA Today, they could at least spell his name right!)  If Detroit wins on Friday, Helene St. James thinks Chris Osgood is a shoe-in for the Conn Smythe.  Meantime, Michael Rosenberg disagrees with Wings coach Mike Babcock and says Marian Hossa is indeed pressing.  Drew Sharp of the Detroit Free Press thinks Friday night will be a showcase of the next great hockey rivalry.  Good thing for Wings fans that home-ice has been a huge advantage in past Game 7s.  That said, in Game 7s, it is just 60 minutes of play, so predictions carry very little weight.  If people are wondering, Chris Chelios has no intention of retiring at season’s end.
• Tomorrow night is Dan Bylsma’s shot at Game 7 redemption.  Look for Petr Sykora to miss tomorrow night’s game.  Penguins fans ask Dave Molinari if the Penguins can win in Detroit?  Many of the players have already played Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final in their imagination as little kids.  Sidney Crosby has gone two games without a point, but has never gone three post-season games in a row without getting on the scoreboard.  Winning in Detroit may be hard, but the Penguins are optimistic.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• This year’s rating for Game 6 of the Final were down from last season, however, last season’s game did not go up against the NBA Finals.
• Ducks goaltending coach Francois Allaire has left the organization to join the Leafs in the same position. 
• Meanwhile, Paul Hunter provides the Toronto perspective of the Francois Allaire hire.
• Brian Burke was not done with the hire of Allaire, as he made some other staff changes yesterday.  Here is more on those changes from Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun.
• The Molson Brothers have bid on the Canadiens.  “We think our offer has all the ingredients to be well received by the potential seller and the National Hockey League,” said the Molson family. 
• One thing is for certain, buying the Habs will not come cheap.
• Apparently Cory Clouston is not Dany Heatley’s only issue with the Senators organization.

Stars fire Tippett

• Tim Cowlishaw of the Dallas Morning News points out that Tippett’s expected replacement, Marc Crawford, has not had any more recent playoff success than Tippett.
• The truth is, the Stars have not finished higher than third in their division over the past three seasons.

Flyers sign Emery

• Apparently the Flyers brass holds Ray Emery in very high esteem.
• “I don’t view it as a big gamble“, said Flyers GM Paul Holmgren about Emery.

The Coyotes situation

• Former Coyotes executive Jeff Shumway has accused the Glendale City Manager of trying to destroy a document, which would be illegal under Arizona law.
• If the Coyotes were to stay in Arizona and possibly be viable, they’d need concessions from the City of Glendale.
• The NHL may be looking to add an indemnity fee to the requirement for a relocation fee.
• Mary Ormsby of the Toronto Star takes a closer look at Judge Redfield T. Baum.
• Damien Cox wonders if maybe the Leafs should cut a deal with Balsillie now, so the organization doesn’t risk getting low indemnity payments handed down by the Court.
• David Shoalts tells us that a team in Hamilton would be worth at least $300 million, and some think a whole lot more.
• Word out of Phoenix is that if Balsillie’s bid fails, the Coyotes will be put up for auction.
• Jeff Blair of the Globe & Mail tells Balsillie to just cut the cheque and prove to everyone that you are for real.
• Toronto aside, the Buffalo Sabres are worried about the possibility of a Hamilton franchise.

AHL Calder Cup Final

• Scott Arniel does not want his Moose players to feel content about bringing this series back to Winnipeg, he wants their focus strictly on forcing a Game 7.  Paul Friesen wonders why Moose fans were so giddy yesterday, when the team hasn’t won anything yet?  Mark Fistric luckily only lost clear vision in his eye for about ten seconds, after taking a Karl Alzner shot to the face.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Drew Sharp says that Chris Osgood was really the only Wing that came to play last night in Pittsburgh.  Ted Kulfan disagrees and has some high praise for Henrik Zetterberg.  Detroit played like a team that could lose yesterday, opines Mitch Albom.  Bob Wojnowski agrees with Albom but says that the Penguins deserve credit for their performance last night.  Helene St. James reminds readers that the Wings have only lost one game at home all playoffs.  Game 7 will be the ultimate hockey game, explains Dave Dye.
• Marc-Andre Fleury made the biggest save of the series last night on Daniel Cleary.  Jordan Staal is one of the main reasons there even is a Game 7, writes Shelly Anderson.  Joe Starkey compares Game 6 to an NFL contest.  Petr Sykora checked back into the lineup yesterday for Pittsburgh.  Here are some notes about the Penguins.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• Gordie Howe was a tough character on the ice, but he is admittedly having a tough time since his wife passed away, writes Larry Lage.
• Some of the Thrashers players took batting practice yesterday with the Braves.  In other Thrashers news, the team has agreed to terms with forward Andrew Kozek.
• The Columbus Blue Jackets are close to naming a new goalie coach, a coach who has a personal relationship with Steve Mason.
• In Dallas, Mike Heika tells us that this particular Stanley Cup Final is exactly what the NHL needs.
• A deal has been reached between Ray Emery and the Flyers, reports Ed Moran.  “We think Emery’s a better goalie than Marty,” said an anonymous Flyers executive.

Brent Sutter’s resignation

• Brent Sutter endorses Paul MacLean as the next coach of the Devils.
• Steve Politi of the Newark Star-Ledger believes it is time for MacLean to lead the Devils too.
• Devils captain Jamie Langenbrunner was disappointed to see Brent Sutter step-down.
• Sutter says his family is very happy about the decision he made to head back home.
• Devils owner Jeff Vanderbeek was disappointed to see Sutter go.
• Sutter says he made his decision on Monday, after his first good sleep in a long time.
• With the decision made, Darry Sutter is now expected to contact Lou Lamoriello regarding Brent Sutter’s availability.
• The Flames job does really seem tailor-made for the former Devils bench boss.
• “There’s no guarantee he would get more out of the team than Keenan did. It’s still up to the players,” said an NHL insider to Alan Maki of the Globe and Mail.

Dany Heatley’s trade request

• Dany Heatley has apparently asked to be traded because he doesn’t have a good relationship with Senators coach Cory Clouston.
• Ken Warren goes over possible destinations and returns for Heatley.  Bruce Garrioch does the same.
• Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen has a very interesting piece on Heatley in this morning’s paper.

The Coyotes situation

• Paul Waldie says Gary Bettman gained the upper-hand with yesterday’s news.
• Some may think it is a victory for Bettman, but Bruce Arthur of the National Post thinks that the extra $100 million fee is definitely worth it.
• The issue of relocation fees stole the spotlight at yesterday’s hearing, writes Carrie Watters of the Arizona Republic.
• Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star runs down the possibile rulings that Judge Baum could hand down.
• Here is a video of Scott Morrison with the latest on the story.
• No wonder Judge Baum is stalling, explains Randy Turner of the Winnipeg Free Press.

AHL Calder Cup Final

• Hershey played a strong game, but Cory Schneider shut the door, so the Moose and Bears are headed back to Winnipeg to play Game 6 on Friday.
• The Moose have one person to thank for forcing a Game 6 and that is Cory Schneider, after the young netminder stole the show in Hershey last night.
• Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun says that without Schneider, the Moose had no business being in yesterday’s contest.

**Tonight is the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show with guests James Mirtle (Globe & Mail and From The Rink) and Kelly Hrudey (former NHL netminder and current Hockey Night in Canada analyst for CBC).  The show starts at 7pm Central Time and runs until 9pm Central Time.  To read more about IllegalCurve Radio, click here.**

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• There are a few special Red Wings that have been apart of the team’s Cup victories since 1997.  Michael Rosenberg of the Detroit Free Press warns fans not to take the Wings’ success for granted.  Last year he played in zero playoff games, but this year if the Wings hoist the Cup, Jonathan Ericsson will feel more of a direct contribution to the team’s success.  In injury news, Pavel Datsyuk didn’t seem to be showing any ill-effects on Monday after playing his first game in a couple of weeks.  Former Red Wings captain Steve Yzerman says he really admires this particular Red Wings team.
• Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review says Game 6 will be a defining moment for Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby and Marc-Andre Fleury.  If the Penguins want to extend this series, they need a great performance from everyone on the roster, writes Dave Molinari.  Ducks coach Randy Carlyle has some advice for the Penguins if they ask for it.  Could Petr Sykora see his first finals action in Game 6?
• U.S. television ratings on Versus are up 42% over last year. 

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• The Thrashers have re-signed center Marty Reasoner to a two-year deal.
• In other signing news, the Ducks have signed winger Mike Brown to a two-year extension.
• As linked yesterday, there will be no changes to the Hurricanes coaching staff for next season.
• In Columbus, Stefan Legein is going to get a clean slate from coach Ken Hitchcock and GM Scott Howson in 2009/10.
• Brent Sutter says he talks to Lou Lamoriello on a daily basis, but has yet to make up his mind as to whether he will return to coaching next season.  However, Rich Chere is reporting that Sutter is expected to announce today that he will not return to Jersey next season.
• Former owner of the Islanders Roy Boe has sadly passed away.
• Apparently Ray Emery and the Flyers are still negotiating a contract and a deal has not yet been finalized.
• Jacques Lemaire has turned down an offer from the Lightning to be a team consultant.
• The Leafs are not going to bring back Curtis Joseph next season.
• Tim Wharnsby thinks Mike Babcock should be head coach of Canada’s 2010 team at the Olympics.

The Coyotes situation

• Could the ruling today force both sides to come to some sort of agreement?
• Here are the arguments both sides will be presenting in court today.
• Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star recaps what has happened so far in this case.
• Did you know the Leafs have made money over the Copps Coliseum before?
• Could this case take almost two years to come to a final resolution?
• The city and Jerry Moyes obviously disagree over the viability of the Coyotes franchise.

AHL Calder Cup Final

• Washington coach Bruce Boudreau thinks that playing in the AHL playoffs is a great learning experience for the organization’s young players.
• There is a lot riding on Game 5 for the Manitoba Moose franchise, writes Randy Turner.  Sensing a tired group, Scott Arniel gave his players the day off on Monday.  The Moose hope to use their experience to their advantage tonight.

Stanley Cup Final

• Compared to their other championship teams, this Wings squad has faced the most significant injuries.  Good point by Wilkinson.  This is obviously a testament to the Wings’ depth.  Consider that they can insert Ville Leino or Justin Abdelkader into the lineup and get solid production, as well as see players like Valtteri Filppula take on more responsibility and their depth truly is impressive.
• Bruce Garrioch wonders if Marc-Andre Fleury can find his game when he needs to most?  I believe he can, but I may be in the minority.
• Seth Rorabaugh links up the CBC’s opening for Game 5.  CBC’s ratings may be down, but their ability to dominate the headlines with eye-catching openings is probably the best it’s ever been.

Everyone else

• It is expected the Carolina Hurricanes coaching staff will be the same next season.  Good work by Rutherford to bring back the same group.  They clearly did a tremendous job with the club they had, and with a full season under this coaching staff, the Canes are surely aiming to finish higher than the sixth seed next season.
• The Blackhawks have signed four prospects.  Nothing overly significant, or surprising about these moves.
• Michael Russo thinks Derek Boogaard could find himself on the move this summer.  He is one of the most physically intimidating players in the NHL and a player that would fit well on a number of teams Russo mentioned. 

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Mike Babcock made few, if any, adjustments for Game 5, writes Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe.  Dan Bylsma tells readers what Babcock does that makes him so successful.  If the Wings do win the Cup, Marian Hossa’s move to the Motor City will be justified.  Pavel Datysuk’s return to the Wings lineup has made this an even fight, writes Mitch Albom.  Wings GM Ken Holland was never worried about Chris Osgood.  Drew Sharp tells us that there is no such thing as momentum in this series.  The Red Wings’ discipline is something to behold.  Is Larry Murphy hoping for Detroit or Pittsburgh?
• The Penguins are motivated by the fact that they don’t want to see Detroit skate around the Mellon Arena again with Lord Stanley’s Cup.  Bill Guerin, knowing this may be his last chance at a Cup, doesn’t want the season to end on Tuesday.  If people think the Penguins have lost confidence in Marc-Andre Fleury, they are wrong.  Joe Starkey wonders if Marc-Andre Fleury can be the reason the Penguins comeback in this series?  Dan Bylsma doesn’t want this series to mirror the series he lost to New Jersey as a player in 2003.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• So far in these playoffs, television rating are up in the United States and down in Canada, writes Chris Zelkovich.
• In some great news, Brent Burns is back working out for the Wild and has been symptom-free for a month after suffering a bad concussion late in the season.
• Ed Moran of the Philadelphia Daily News says goaltending is always the story in Philadelphia.
• Jack Todd of the Montreal Gazette figures Jacques Martin will lead the Habs no farther than the second round of the playoffs, then eventually be fired for not taking them to the next level.

The Coyotes situation

• Don’t be surprised if Jim Balsillie wins this case, writes Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star.
• Here are some of the arguments from both sides.
• Gary Loewen of the Toronto Sun wonders if Bettman will be at Game 6 tomorrow or the court room?
• Both sides are going back and forth at each other with the case soon to be decided, writes Paul Waldie of the Globe & Mail.
• Apparently Balsillie’s camp is relying largely on the argument that this case is very similar to the one that saw the Seattle Pilots baseball team move to Milwaukee.
• Stephen Brunt tells readers to not take the alternate bids for the Coyotes, that would see the team stay in Phoenix, at face value.
• Anyone interested in purchasing the team, should realize just how much money its lost.
• Some think Judge Redfield Baum doesn’t want to decide this case, and would obviously much prefer these two sides come to an agreement on their own.

AHL Calder Cup Final

• A too many men on the ice penalty proved costly for the Manitoba Moose on Sunday, writes Tim Campbell.  Down 3-1 in the series, the next game is win or you’re out, says Mike Keane.

Stanley Cup Final

• Pavel Datsyuk will play tonight but Matthew Barnaby thinks he’s having trouble turning.  Starting him on the wing is a good move from Babcock.  Protect your star until he proves he can handle more responsibility.
• Daniel Cleary is questionable for tonight’s game.  His attributes aren’t easily replaceable, especially his net presence, so his loss could really hurt.
• Has Niklas Kronwall been better than Nicklas Lidstrom in the Final?  Kronwall has been this good for a while now, so it’s nice to see he’s finally getting some credit.
• Mike Lange’s goal calls from Game 4.  Scratch my back with a hacksaw…
• Elliotte Friedman examines something I asked yesterday: Should the Wings start shadowing Malkin?  Well-written piece.
• Kevin Allen says the Wings need to do these five things to win today.  I think Hossa is the key from that list.

Everyone else

• Karl Alzner is expected to play in Game 3 of the Calder Cup Final tonight.  That’s certainly going to be  a nice boost to Hershey’s chances, as Alzner is a very good defensemen, with excellent puck-moving skills.
• From this morning’s Bergen Record, Tom Gulitti says Brent Sutter has had enough time to decide his future. I feel like he isn’t going to return to Jersey.  (Thanks to reader 95Crash for the heads-up)

Other stories

• Jonathan Willis chimes in on the reported discord from the Oilers’ locker room this season.  It will be interesting to see how many roster changes we see from Steve Tambellini this off-season.  He has already put his stamp on the team with his coaching hires, so you’d have to expect a few roster changes as well.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Some of the Wings players believe the team has not yet played its best in the Final.  Others may be worried, but Mike Babcock is confident in his team and feels good about Game 5.  Drew Sharp wonders who much the Wings have left in their tank?  If fans think Nicklas Lidstrom’s leadership qualities have changed as captain, they are wrong.  Pavel Datsyuk’s return is going to really help the slumping Marian Hossa.  The fact that Detroit controls the matchups tonight will be vitally important.
• This Pittsburgh writer believes Marc-Andre Fleury’s performance is the key to Game 5.  Detroit will continue to have trouble, if they can’t score on the power play.  Here’s a number of Penguins tidbits from Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.  The Penguins made sure to get some rest on Friday, with few regulars opting to take the ice.  Meantime, Evgeni Malkin’s parents are the most popular parents in Pittsburgh.  Bob Errey saw some significance in Jordan Staal’s big short-handed goal in Game 4.

Teams that have not made the playoffs

• With Chuck Fletcher in the GM seat, the Minnesota Wild are looking to deal.  As well as sifting over other rosters, Fletcher also plans on hiring a coach before the Draft.
• Devils fans are apparently eager for Martin Brodeur day.
• Is there finally some good news coming from the Islanders’ efforts for a new arena?
• As you probably already know, the Rangers are raising season ticket prices for next season.
• Dave Perkins of the Toronto Star mocks this new Toronto group trying to secure an NHL expansion franchise.  This whole attempt is foolish, writes Sean Fitz-Gerald of the National Post.
• Staying in Toronto, the Leafs have let go AHL Marlies coach Greg Gilbert.
• Corey Masisak profiles Capitals prospect defenseman John Carlson.

The Coyotes situation

• Jim Balsillie told ESPN Radio that he doesn’t think another team in Southern Ontario would hurt Buffalo.
• In a court document, the other three professional sports leagues penned their concern over a bad precedent being set.
• Tuesday is decision day in this case.
• Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star calls Judge Redfield Baum the most powerful man in sports.
• According to Paul Waldie of the Globe & Mail, the Argos owners are interested in purchasing the Coyotes.

AHL Calder Cup

• It is amazing how so many hockey people can be connected in some way, writes Tim Campbell.  On the ice, Scott Arniel says his team’s goal is to win at least one game on the road to ensure a return to Manitoba for Game 6.  Many people think the Moose/Bears series is pretty much even.  Meanwhile, Chris Bourque may be Ray Bourque’s son, but he is good enough to have made it without that name on the back of his jersey.

Now, I realize that part of this dominance is due to the fact that, for the most part, he hasn’t been faced Zetterberg and Lidstrom/Rafalski, but should the Wings start looking for that matchup?  Or are the Wings okay with their current ability to limit Sidney Crosby and fear that making that switch would just allow Crosby to go off as Malkin has?

Certainly tough questions to be asking, and ones that Detroit better find an answer to.  It sure helps that two of the next possible three games are at home.  But what if the Penguins start loading up Malkin with Crosby again?  You’d have to expect that to happen and we know that no team has an answer for that. 

Let’s just say that Detroit desperately needs Pavel Datsyuk for Game 5 because sometimes the best defense, is a good offense.

Now here are some evening links:

• An “explanation” for why the Rangers raised tickets prices.
• NBC and CTV won’t fight over Pierre McGuire at Olympic time.
• Allan Muir doesn’t like what’s going on in Colorado.
• A chat with Don Cherry, from Puck Daddy.
• Chuck Fletcher is looking to deal in Minnesota.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• “We weren’t good at all defensively,” said Chris Osgood after his team’s 4-2 loss in Game 4.  For all the talk about the Wings’ penalty killing being poor, the team’s power play has been awful in this series.  The challenge of stopping Crosby and Malkin together proved to be too much.  The Wings organization is saying that Pavel Datsyuk is close to returning to the lineup.  Without Datsyuk in the lineup, the Wings are having a hard time keeping up with the Penguins’ fire power.  Steve Schrader of the Detroit Free Press wasn’t very impressed with the officiating.  Are the Wings wearing down?
• Sidney Crosby delivered last night, writes Eric Duhatschek.  Crosby elevated his game but so did Evgeni Malkin.  So Crosby and Malkin elevated their games, but what about Jordan Staal’s momentum changing goal?  “That definitely changed the game,” said Maxime Talbot.  The Penguins have full confidence in netminder Marc-Andre Fleury and he proved why last night.  Pittsburgh is winning because the players are playing their game.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• The NHL and NBC are said to be close to agreeing on a two-year contract extension.
• An NHL executive says the Islanders are going to select Victor Hedman with the number one overall pick.
• The Thrashers have re-signed Anssi Salmela, the defenseman they received in return for Niclas Havelid.
• David Krejci’s hip surgery was deemed a success.
• Mario Tremblay will not be back as an assistant coach for the Wild next season but did say he’d love to have the same job with the Canadiens if possible.
• Islanders center Doug Weight was impressed with John Tavares during their time together on the Island.
• Here are the details on the other group that wants to bring another hockey team to Southern Ontario.
• Jim Matheson gives Oilers fans the latest on Craig MacTavish’s next job, possible assistant coaches for Pat Quinn and Tom Renney and what Edmonton might do in net.
• In Vancouver, GM Place is going to undergo some renovations.
• Over in Montreal, here’s the latest on George Gillett’s finances.
• According to Bruce Garrioch, the Tampa Bay Lightning only plan on spending to the salary cap floor next season.

The Avalanche’s new coach

• Mark Kiszla of the Denver Post thinks Joe Sacco has been hired to absorb some losses until Patrick Roy is ready to come aboard.
• Sacco has learned coaching techniques from Ron Wilson and Jack Parker, but he wants to be himself too.
• Sacco’s players in Lake Erie of the AHL think he will do a good job in Colorado.
• Here is an article profiling new Colorado GM Greg Sherman.
• One of Sherman’s first responsibilities is to figure out what’s next for Joe Sakic.
• Don’t expect a power struggle in the front office, writes Terry Frei.

The Coyotes situation

• Jim Balsillie answers three questions for the Arizona Republic.
• NHLPA boss Paul Kelly thinks the NHL’s time in Phoenix should come to an end.
• Some experts think that no matter which way Judge Redfield Baum rules, that either side will appeal.  (Writer’s note: Balsillie has said he won’t appeal if he loses, but who knows.)

AHL Calder Cup Final

• Randy Turner of the Winnipeg Free Press gets the sense that the fans really, really care about the outcome of the Moose games, when maybe they once did not.  Blow outs–not the Moose’s forte, but close games are.  Hershey coach Bob Woods promises that his team’s fans will be loud too.  Meanwhile, Bears defenseman Bryan Helmer cannot believe how long it’s been since he won the Calder Cup.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Since Pavel Datsyuk has been out of the lineup, Henrik Zetterberg has been counted on even more.  In fact, Mike Babcock says that Zetterberg has been overused.  By the sounds of it, Datsyuk will be back in the lineup tonight.  Although nothing is for certain as of yet. (Writer’s note: Bob Duff said on the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show last night that he expects Datsyuk to be in the lineup and that he looked great at practice on Wednesday.)  The Wings are hoping that Game 4 continues to be Marian Hossa’s lucky game tonight.  Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press says one of the reasons the Wings have struggled on the penalty kill is the injury to Andreas Lilja.  Here is a Q & A with Ken Holland.
• It may be a 2-1 series score like last season, but the Penguins feel different this year, writes Dave Molinari.  If the Penguins continue to say that things are different this season, then Joe Starkey says they have to go out and prove it.  Pittsburgh’s maturation from last season to this season has been very evident in the Final.  Evgeni Malkin is showing his comfort level with the media now, with his constant jokes and more relaxed demeanor.  Meanwhile, Penguins fans asking for more emotion from Dan Bylsma shouldn’t hold their breath.  Liyun Chin tells us the value that a hockey team provides to the businesses surrounding the team.  These days, Mario Lemieux is as engaging as ever.  Apparently Bill Guerin’s brother John doubles as Superman in his spare time, as he helped a lady get her stolen tickets back.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• Television ratings in the U.S. have been up on NBC.
• Even though he is undergoing hip surgery today, the Bruins feel very comfortable having David Krejci signed to a contract extension.  Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald says many see Krejci as a potential 100 point scorer.
• After undergoing two surgeries, Sabres netminder Patrick Lalime says he feels good now.
• More details on the prospective sale of the Florida Panthers.
• Todd Richards, Craig MacTavish and Peter Laviolette have been mentioned as being coaching candidates for the Minnesota Wild.
• If Lou Lamoriello has a contingency plan in place in case Brent Sutter heads back to Alberta, he sure isn’t telling anyone.
• The Flyers feel Ray Emery is worth taking a chance on, writes Ed Moran.  Are the Flyers set to target Jay Bouwmeester next?
• In Tampa Bay, Brian Lawton is getting to know each of the projected top three picks for this month’s Entry Draft in Montreal.
• Did the Leafs get a steal in the 4th round of last year’s Entry Draft?  Brian Burke has stated he wants to move up to draft John Tavares, but if he can’t, he is interested in Brayden Schenn.
• Randy Turner of the Winnipeg Free Press thinks it could be a very messy summer for the NHL.

The Avalanche coaching and management moves

• Terry Frei tells us that the Avalanche never really considered going outside the organization to fill the GM seat.
• Woody Paige suggests the Avalanche hire current Manitoba Moose coach Scott Arniel to become the next Colorado head coach.
• In the midst of his exit, Tony Granato handled himself with class, the way he always does.
• Pierre Lacroix’s health issues are luckily under control, but the Avalanche President remains in the hospital.

The Coyotes situation

• The other big three professional sports leagues know the precedent that could be set in the Coyotes’ case.
• Suddenly Jim Balsillie is conducting polls now too.
• Jim Balsillie and Gary Bettman are disputing the value of his bid to purchase the Coyotes.

AHL Calder Cup Final

• The Winnipeg Free Press lists the biggest goals in Moose franchise history.  Moose defenseman Zack FitzGerald may have saved the series for his team when he blocked a puck going right for an open cage in Game 2.  Hershey and Manitoba are just so evenly matched it is difficult to pick out significant differences.

Stanley Cup Final

• Curtis Zupke of the OC Register with five thoughts on the Final so far.  I think Fleury gets more flack than is warranted.
• Ever heard of the Dave Dye jinx?  The Wings better hope Dye starts writing about something else for the rest of this series…
• Some great pictures from in and around Game 3, courtesy of Seth Rorabaugh.  Lots of good stuff there.

Everyone else

• Here are some details on the Panthers sale.  Is Tony Tavares everywhere these days? How many teams is he rumored to be running?
• Has Serge Savard pulled away from his original interest of purchasing the Habs?  More importantly, are the Habs even for sale?!?!?!?!

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Detroit played extremely well at five-on-five last night.  However, the team needs to solve its penalty killing problems, writes David Shoalts.  Mitch Albom believes last night’s game turned when Pittsburgh scored its second goal.  Bob Wojnowski thinks the Wings let a great chance slip away.  Marian Hossa wasn’t cheered on Tuesday, but it wasn’t as harsh a reception as anticipated.  You may see Darren McCarty on television being interviewed but his name won’t be on the Cup if the Wings win this time around, explains Bob Duff.
• The Penguins were due for some bounces to go their way, and they did last night, writes Joe Starkey.  Penalty killing has been a problem for Detroit, and the power play has been a strength for Pittsburgh, explains Dave Molinari.  After three assists last night, it is fair to say that Evgeni Malkin is making up for his poor performance in last year’s Final.  With Game 4 up next, now the series gets serious and it is going to be up to the superstars to decide who wins, explains Mike Prisuta.  Marian Hossa wasn’t exactly welcomed back to the Mellon Arena last night.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe has the details of David Krejci’s contract extension.  (Writer’s note: I feel like Chiarelli did very well in these negotiations.  By maybe even that second year, Krejci could prove to be a very big bargain.)
• The Stars have signed two goalies in their system to one-year, two-way deals.
• With a new owner coming to town, Greg Cote of the Miami Herald says nothing can be worse than the Alan Cohen era.  Here are more details on the proposed sale.
• Head shots? What head shots?  Read Brian Burke’s take on this situation.
• Pending unrestricted free agent John Madden says there has been no contact between him and the Devils.
• Looking for hints of which way Islanders GM Garth Snow is leaning for the number one pick?  Well, he’s not giving any.  Meanwhile, here is the latest on the Islanders’ Lighthouse project.  (Writer’s note: If you have any questions on either Islanders topic, send it into our mailbag because we are scheduled to have Greg Logan of Newsday on the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show tonight.)
• The renovations scheduled for Madison Square Garden have been pushed back to 2012.
• Former Rangers broadcaster and current Blues executive John Davidson has been selected to receive the Foster Hewwitt Memorial Award from the Hockey Hall of Fame.  (Writer’s note: He’s done a terrific job in St. Louis but he is definitely missed in the broadcast booth.)  “It’s a tad overwhelming,” said Davidson.
• Comcast Cable has come to an agreement with the NHL Network.
• The Lightning have begun the search for a new assistant coach.
• Speaking of the Lightning, Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun says Vincent Lecavalier is readily available via trade.
• In Toronto, the Leafs are expecting a visit from highly-coveted free agent netminder Jonas Gustavsson within the next two weeks.
• One of the proposed owners of the Habs, wishes Bob Gainey had waited some time before selecting his new coach.

The Coyotes situation

• Here are a club official’s reasons as to why NHL hockey does not work in Phoenix.
• June 9 is the important date coming up.
• If the Coyotes do move to Hamilton, Balsillie’s group assumes they’d be playing in the Western Conference.
• Apparently Jim Balsillie has 22 letters of reference.
• John Davidson says Balsillie should follow the rules.
• Is Balsillie’s offer not actually $212 million?
• How are the Coyotes going to rebuild the team’s name if they stay in the desert?

AHL Calder Cup Final

• A late goal from Jason Jaffray allowed the Manitoba Moose to split the first two games of the Calder Cup Final with three games in Hershey on the horizon.  “That’s the biggest goal I’ve ever scored,” said Jaffray after last night’s contest, in which he scored a hat trick.  Cory Schneider was very sharp last night, writes Randy Turner.  Alain Vigneault was at the MTS Centre last night to watch the Moose play and talked about his time in Manitoba.

**Remember that tonight is the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show from 7pm to 9pm Central Time.  Our guests are: Bob Duff (Windsor Star), Greg Logan (Newsday) and George Richards (Miami Herald).**

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Even though they are up 2-0 in the series, the Wings are confident they can still play better.  Marian Hossa knows what kind of reception he will be receiving tonight.  Dave Dye discusses the fact that Chris Osgood is probably the odds-on favorite to win the Conn Smythe after a sub-par regular season.  Kris Draper is ready to suit up if he’s called upon, but if he isn’t, the Wings may dearly miss his face-off presence on the road.  If Draper doesn’t get into the lineup this Final, what could be next for the long-time Wing?  Don’t expect Pavel Datsyuk to play tonight in Pittsburgh.  With Datsyuk absent, Henrik Zetterberg has been tremendous and one has to think he may be the next captain of the Wings when Nicklas Lidstrom retires.  Finally, Drew Sharp has an interesting column calling out the fans and media for the criticism of LeBron and Crosby.  (Writer’s note: I agree with Sharp.  These two players receive too much unneccesary criticsm.)
• The odds may not look great, but the Penguins remain confident in their chances.  Remember that Pittsburgh has both out-chanced and outshot the Wings through two games.  Some contributions from non-superstars would be welcomed as well.  The players in the Pens dressing room know they have be strong on the draws against a puck-possession team like Detroit.  The Penguins are not letting the lack of penalty calls bother them.  He doesn’t garner too much attention, but Rob Scuderi has turned into a rock on the Penguins’ back-end.  In some nice news, Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is going to be recognized by the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Montreal coaching hire

• Sean Gordon of the Globe & Mail tells us that Bob Gainey was looking for a defense-first coach who values discipline and Jacques Martin brought exactly those qualifications.
• This is the first time Montreal has hired a coach with past head coaching experience since 1992, writes Pat Hickey.
• Dave Stubbs chimes in on Martin’s boring coaching style.
• Questioning Martin’s playoff record, Red Fisher of the Gazette wonders why Bob Gainey was in such a rush to name Martin his new head coach?
• Now that Martin has been hired, many other decisions must be made.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• The US television rating were up for Game 2 over Game 1.
• In Canada, CBC’s ratings have held steady.
• J.J. Taylor likes the move to bring in Joe Nieuwendyk as some semi-fresh blood.  It is no guarantee that Dave Tippett coaches the Stars next season, explains Chuck Carlton.  Nieuwendyk plans to build this Stars team through the draft.
• George Richards discussess possible replacements for Jacques Martin in Florida.  Meanwhile, David Hyde is skeptical of the Panthers’ ability to hire a capable replacement.
• Devils prospect Petr Vrana has signed on to play in the Czech league.
• Sticking in New Jersey, Brent Sutter knows that he needs to decide whether he is returning to coach the Devils in the near future.
• The Rangers have unbelievably raised ticket prices in this economic climate.  (James Mirtle had a good piece on this yesterday)
• Injured Blues defenseman Eric Brewer expects to be ready for training camp next fall.
• Sabres prospect Marek Zagrapan has signed a two-year deal with a KHL team.
• The Oilers have signed draft pick Milan Kytnar.

The Coyotes situation

• Here is a very interseting article on the thoughts of Gabe Macaluso, someone who has attempted to bring an NHL team to Hamilton before.
• As David linked last night, Jim Balsillie has filed a relocation application.
• The city of Glendale appears ready to help a purchaser willing to keep the team in Arizona.
• Let’s just say Wayne Gretzky could lose a lot of money depending on what happens with this sale.
• Finally, an article by Jim Balsillie himself.

Calder Cup Final

• With a 2-3-2 format for the Final, the Moose can ill-afford to be down 2-0 in this series heading back to Hershey.  Just because they lost Game 1, doesn’t mean the team is suddenly losing confidence.  Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun thinks special teams is the key for tonight’s game.  In injury news, Alex Bolduc hopes to suit up for Manitoba tonight.

**Tomorrow night is the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show from 7pm CST through to 9pm CST.  Tomorrow’s guests include Greg Logan of Newsday who will breakdown the Islanders’ draft possibilities and George Richards of the Miami Herald who will breakdown the Panthers’ GM situation and discuss Jacques Martin’s exit from South Beach.**

• 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.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• If they get a little luck, Mitch Albom wouldn’t be surprised at all to see Pittsburgh tied up this series back home.  Albom also wonders where Sidney Crosby has been?  Detroit fans know where Evgeni Malkin has been, as he went after Henrik Zetterberg at the end of last night’s game but did not get suspended.  Speaking of Zetterberg, he has been driving Sidney Crosby crazy.  Jonathan Ericsson isn’t playing like someone who had surgery just a few days ago.  There is a reason Darren Helm is the new fan favorite in Motown.  Steve Schrader of the Detroit Free Press tells readers about Don Cherry’s entrance to Game 2.  (Writer’s note: Some thought it was cheesy, but personally I found it pretty funny.)
• As much as things are different from last year, the fact that the Penguins are down 2-0 in the series makes things very much the same.  Marc-Andre Fleury says he has to be better next game.  He sure does because Chris Osgood has been the star of the series, opines Joe Starkey.  Meanwhile, the Penguins got lucky that Evgeni Malkin wasn’t suspended.  Apparently some think Mike Babcock was out to play headgames with Sidney Crosby.  (Writer’s note: That’s taken out of context in my opinion.  If you watched Babcock’s press conference when he said that, it was matter-of-factly and he didn’t really seem to have much of a problem with it.)  Still with Crosby, former power forward Kevin Stevens loves the way he plays.  Are the Penguins better than they were last season?

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• New Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk says he learned a lot from the likes of Cliff Fletcher, Bob Gainey and Lou Lamorieollo during his playing days.  Tim Cowlishaw thinks Tom Hicks is hoping for a Nolan Ryan-like effect from Joe Nieuwendyk on the Stars organization.  Brian Burke thinks Nieuwendyk will do a good job.
• While the team may be a bit of a mess now, there are certainly some nice pieces in the Avalanche organization, writes Adrian Dater.
• Chris Zelkovich comments on how odd it was to not hear Bob Cole’s voice calling Game 1 of the final.
• The United States television ratings on NBC were down from last year and Jason Brough of the Vancouver Province is wondering why the ratings story was the only story not working on nhl.com

The Coyotes situation

• Bruce Dowbiggen of the Globe & Mail thinks everything is personal when it comes to Gary Bettman.

Calder Cup Final

• The atmosphere in the MTS Centre for Game 1 was absolutely electric.  Moose coach Scott Arniel wants to limit the team turnovers.  Finally, here is an interview Wiebe conducted with Moose forward Mark Cullen.  On the other side, Hershey sniper Alex Giroux is happy with his trade back to the Bears.  (Writer’s note: Is Ken Wiebe superhuman? That’s four articles for one morning.)  A lack of experience cost the Moose in Game 1, explains Gary Lawless.

**Remember that the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show has changed time slots and can now be heard live from 7pm Central time through 9pm Central time.  This week’s guests include Greg Logan of Newsday who will be on the show to breakdown what the Islanders are looking to do with the number one selection in this summer’s Entry Draft.**

Not overly surprising considering the quick 24 hr turnaround here.  If these two players were not able to go last night, there probably wasn’t much chance they were going to be ready to go today.  A few people are saying expect Datsyuk back for Game 3, but I guess we will just have to wait and see.

• Luck played a factor in yesterday’s result, writes Mitch Albom.  With Game 2 tonight, Albom believes the Penguins saw many signs that gave them confidence heading into Sunday night.  Last night had to be frustrating for Pittsburgh, explains Bob Wojnowski.  Dave Dye says Marc-Andre Fleury wasn’t as sharp as Chris Osgood.  Jonathan Ericsson probably wouldn’t have played had this been a regular season game.
• The Penguins probably deserved to win on Saturday but a few bad bounces led to a Game 1 loss, writes Dave Molinari.  Pittsburgh needs to be a lot better in the face-off circle.  Penguins coach Dan Bylsma made sure to reinforce to his team that they should not be in awe of the high-powered Red Wings.  In a rare appearance, Mario Lemieux spoke to the media yesterday.  (Writer’s note: Mario looks like he can still play.)  The Penguins’ fans sure travel well.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• Terry Frei says that Avalanche coach Tony Granato would be fighting a losing battle if he coached the team next season.
• Damien Cox likes the fact that the game can take some of the spotlight away from the NHL’s off-ice problems.
• Gary Bettman wants to see stronger drug testing in the NHL, writes Corey Masisak of the Washington Times.

Sunday special articles

• Fluto Shinzawa subs in for Kevin Paul Dupont in this week’s edition of Hockey Notes from the Boston Globe.
• Bucky Gleason warns the Blackhawks of possible salary cap problems down the road. 
• Larry Brooks says Gary Bettman needs to drop his personal issues with Jim Balsillie and negotiate with him to take the Coyotes to Hamilton.

Coyotes situation

• Gary Bettman addressed the Coyotes situation at his league news conference yesterday.
• The city of Glendale has seen some hope in the results of the court hearings so far.
• Chris Chelios is in favor of another team in Ontario.

Calder Cup Final

• Last night, Alex Giroux demonstrated why he was the MVP of the AHL this season, writes Ken Wiebe.  Paul Friesen says last night’s game had all the action one could have hoped for.  “Our pain was self inflicted. We had a number of guys that didn’t bring their A-game,” said Moose coach Scott Arniel.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• The Red Wings are not exactly happy that television scheduling needs have given them less time off than usual this year.  Mitch Albom chimes in with his take on this odd scheduling.  With so little time between games, the Wings are just trying to get some rest right now.  He made the summer switch, so Marian Hossa is hoping his move to Motown will pay off.  Helene St. James breaks down the series from all angles.  Ken Holland says he expects Nicklas Lidstrom to play tomorrow.  Bob Wojnowski is right when he says this series will be a classic.
• Sidney Crosby is confident that this year will be different than last.  The Penguins have no problems meeting the Red Wings when they are a little injured.  Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette thinks the early start to the final is a good thing.  David Shoalts analyzes the two opposing netminders.  What if Sidney Crosby went to college?

That are not in the playoffs

• Doctors are trying to figure out what’s wrong with Pierre Lacroix’s leg, but luckily the team is saying the problems are not life-threatening.
• The Blue Jackets organization is in a fight over beer tax.
• Flyers winger Simon Gagne has underwent successful hip surgery.
• After a poor season, Vincent Lecavalier is looking to get into the best shape of his life this summer, writes Damian Cristodero.
• It is official, Bob Cole will not be calling the Red Wings/Penguins series for CBC.
• Today is combine day for the NHL prospects.
• Bruce Arthur of the National Post thinks steroids in is inevitable.  (Writer’s note: I disagree.  Again, I don’t think the benefits are there for hockey players–aside from goons.)

Coyotes situation

• The lawyers for Jerry Moyes now want a new emergency hearing by June 3.
• Jim Balsillie is going to unveil his plan for renovating Copps Coliseum today.
• Apparently the Coyotes organization is set to lose approximately $17 million over the next few weeks.

Calder Cup Final

• The Washington Capitals organization doesn’t lack for goaltending, as Hershey Bears starter Michael Neuvirth is certainly making a good name for himself.
• The Manitoba Moose would be surprised if the team doesn’t sell out the entire MTS Centre for Game 1 of the Calder Cup.
• Randy Turner tells Moose fans to enjoy watching Cory Schneider and Cody Hodgson because they will be starring in the NHL very soon.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Chris Osgood was tremendous last night for the Wings, writes Mitch Albom.  Darren Helm is becoming a cult hero in Detroit.  Marian Hossa is going to try to limit the distraction that is going to be his return to Pittsburgh.  In good news, the Wings expect to have Jonathan Ericsson back in the lineup on Saturday.  Here are the Penguins that Wings fans should know about beginning Saturday
• The Penguins have been generating big television numbers in the Pittsburgh area.  Those ratings should continue to soar now that the Penguins face the Red Wings in a rematch of last year’s Finals.  Coach Bylsma gave his players the day off on Wednesday.  People don’t realize how much the Penguins have learned since last year’s playoff experience.  Veteran winger Bill Guerin is just happy to have been given the opportunity to join this team mid-season.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• The Blackhawks’ season ended last night, but they enter the summer feeling good about themselves.  They have to realize they lost to the best, writes Steve Rosenbloom.  It looks like Nikolai Khabibulin has played his last game as a member of the Blackhawks.
• Ken Hitchcock thinks the Oilers hit a home run with their new coaching selections.  While people may love the Quinn/Renney hirings, it will still be the players that determine whether the Oilers turn their fortunes around or not.  Meantime, there are rumblings that the Oilers have re-signed Dennis Grebeshkov at approximately $3 million per season.
• If Don Waddell has yet to lead the Thrashers organization to a playoff victory, then why should fans believe this time is different?
• Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs says his GM has permission to spend up to the salary cap next season.  In other news, Jacobs expects the next outdoor game to be played in Boston at Fenway Park.
• Adrian Dater of the Denver Post with the details of Patrick Roy’s decision not to coach the Avalanche next season.
• New Minnesota GM Chuck Fletcher wants to meet with the entire Wild staff before making any decisions on who will return and who will be let go.
• Former Islanders forward John Tonelli has been arrested for DWI.
• Former Rangers radio play-by-play man, and current Islanders television play-by-play man, Howie Rose recounts the classic “Matteau” call he made fifteen years ago.
• Phil Sheridan has a very well written piece this morning commemorating the late Peter Zezel.  “It obviously is way too early for a man to die at 44 years old. The tragedy surrounding it is just horrific for any of us who knew Peter,” said Bobby Clarke.
• The Sharks’ current routine is going to lose its charm quickly, writes Ray Rotto.
• Lightning GM Brian Lawton has been working hard studying draft prospects.
• Could there be more than one Schenn in the Leafs organization after draft day?
• Maybe the Niedermayer brothers will end up on different teams next season?
• The Canucks have re-signed Rick Rypien.

Steroids issue

• Capitals players have fully participated in the NHL’s random drug testing program, and at no point has a Capitals player tested positive,” said Capitals team President Dick Patrick about yesterday’s steroids rumors.
• Capitals players don’t seem to think any of their teammates are on steroids.  (Writer’s note: I agree with Steve Eminger’s comments in this article.  It isn’t like most of the players in hockey are bulky or ripped.  I really don’t think there is a steroids issue in hockey at all.)
• Meanwhile, Bruce Arthur of the National Post wonders if this is the NHL’s first real drug problem?
• The NHL needs to get serious about steroids, writes Dave Feschuk of the Toronto Star.

Coyotes situation

• As reported yesterday, Judge Redfield Baum has moved up the relocaiton hearing in the Coyotes case. 
• Yesterday Judge Baum also ruled that Jerry Moyes will run the club day-to-day until a sale decision has been made. 
• Apparently Tony Tavares was not interested in making an offer for the Coyotes.

Calder Cup Finals

• If the Manitoba Moose want to win the Calder Cup, here are their keys to victory, courtesy of Gary Lawless.  Guillaume Desbiens wants to drink from the Cup again.

Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Pittsburgh is the first team to return to the Finals with two different coaches since the Pittsburgh teams of 1991 and 1992.  Getting close to the Cup and losing is not a pleasant experience, so the Penguins don’t want to repeat that once again.  Hurricanes winger Scott Walker says the Pens are playing at a very high level right now.  Last year they lost the Finals, so this season the Penguins had no problem holding up the Prince of Wales Trophy.  Evgeni Malkin reminds Paul Maurice of Jaromir Jagr.  Don Cherry loves the way Sidney Crosby plays these days.
• Just because they lost quickly in the third round, it should not take away from the Hurricanes’ playoff run, writes Chip Alexander.  Yesterday marked the first time that Cam Ward has ever lost a NHL playoff series.  It did not take long for Luke Decock to wonder what is up next for Carolina this off-season.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• The Red Wings play their own kind of tough hockey, writes Helene St. James.  Throwing Patrick Kane’s mouthguard away amused some Red Wings.  Both Pavel Datsyuk and Nicklas Lidstrom are game-time decisions tonight.  See, if you look at the Red Wings dressing room, Swedes and Finns can get along.  Jonathan Ericsson has provided a great boost for the Red Wings in so many different ways.
• Cristobal Huet seems most likely to get the start tonight for Chicago.  “It’s going to be 60 or more minutes that’s going to decide our future,” says Huet.  The Hawks aren’t focusing on the 9% chance they’ve been given to win this series.

Teams that are not in the playoffs

• Darryl Sutter says he’s the best candidate to coach the Flames right now, but has not yet named himself coach of the team.  Eric Duhatschek touches upon the likelieness of Sutter returning to coach the Flames.
• Mr. Hockey in Minnesota, Lou Nanne, will be honored by USA Hockey early next month.
• Peter Laviolette is interested in the Minnesota Wild head coaching position, writes Michael Russo.
• Are the Habs becoming a religion in Montreal?
• Staying in Montreal, the Molson family is apparently interested in buying the Canadiens.
• There are apparently some legal issues regarding seating for the New Jersey Devils.
• The Hall of Fame is not going to change Al Arbour’s plaque to account for his one new coaching win from 2007.
• The Rangers have signed defenseman Michael Del Zotto to an entry-level contract.
• The latest on the Phoenix saga, courtesy of Craig Harris of the Arizona Republic.  Safe to say that the sides are squabbling yet again.
• The Blues have re-signed Jay McClement to a three year, $4.3 million contract.
• Could there be a steroids controversy about to hit hockey?
• The Capitals are facing big-time competition from the KHL when it comes to re-signing their free agents.

Edmonton Oilers coaching hire

• Pat Quinn stayed humble during his time away from coaching in the NHL, writes Damien Cox.
• Quinn will have the chance to win the Stanley Cup, one of the only titles he has yet to win.
• Steve Tambellini really liked the experience and versatility of his new coaching hires.
• Terry Jones with all you need to know about Pat Quinn.
• Tom Renney as the strategy guy has worked well in the past.
• Kelly Buchberger is the only member of the Oilers’ coaching staff that will return from last season.
• Derek Van Diest gets the reaction of a number of Oilers players to yesterday’s hirings.  (Writer’s note: Van Diest will be on the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show tonight to discuss the hiring and what’s next for the Oilers this summer.)
• It takes two special personalities for this coaching arrangement to work, writes Robert Tychkowski.
• The Oilers look to be an attacking team next season.
• Pat Quinn was a safe choice for Steve Tambellini, writes Eric Duhatschek.

Remembering Peter Zezel

• Rich Hofmann of the Philadelphia Daily News remembers the classy Zezel from his time with the Flyers organization.
• Peter Zezel was the kind of guy that would literally give you the shirt off his back, writes Paul Hunter of the Toronto Star.
• Zezel played on a lot of teams, and all of his teammates loved him.
• Allan Maki tells readers that Zezel wasn’t just a great hockey player.

AHL Playoffs

• The Moose are a round away from reversing some of the bad playoff luck from past seasons, explains Tim Campbell.

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Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar is feeling better every game he plays.  Probably not coincidentally, the Penguins’ power play has been dominant as of late.  Meanwhile, Maxime Talbot is not getting down on himself for missing a couple golden scoring chances while playing alongside Malkin.  Speaking of Malkin, he wants to and has proved his critics wrong.  Planning on stopping them is one thing, but the Penguins are just that good, says Cam Ward. 
• Carolina knows it has to be more physical with Malkin and Crosby.  They may be down 3-0, but the Hurricanes believe they can comeback.  Any chance of that happening depends on Cam Ward.  Caulton Tudor doesn’t believe the Hurricanes will comeback, but he does believe they have no reason to be embarassed about that.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• Experience is paying off for Detroit this round, writes Ted Kulfan.  Valtteri Filppula has been quietly terrific for the entire playoffs so far, explains Dave Dye.  The Wings are hoping to have both Pavel Datsyuk and Nicklas Lidstrom in the lineup tomorrow night.  Looking at these two franchises make one imagine that ownership may just be the most important aspect of running a successful franchise.  Some believe that Brad Stuart and Niklas Kronwall have been the best pairing this playoffs.  Detroit is hoping to win tonight, even though the Wings lost twice in the same situation last season.
• “We can’t win three games at once,” said Patrick Sharp in the most classic cliche teams down 3-1 have to say.  Wednesday night will be the Blackhawks’ first elimination game of the playoffs.  It doesn’t help that the Hawks are 3-5 on the road this playoffs.  By all accounts, it appears unlikely Nikolai Khabibulin will suit up tomorrow for Chicago.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Terry Frei wonders if Patrick Roy is playing the Avalanche versus the Habs?
• Islanders coach Scott Gordon thinks Kyle Okposo could crack the 2010 USA Olympic hockey team.
• Eric Duhatschek examines who may start in Canada’s net in 2010.
• Could Team Russia be the favorite?
• Blues defenseman Erik Johnson is back on the ice three times a week working with Al MacInnis.
• The latest on the Coyotes saga from Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star.  David Shoalts of the Globe & Mail also has more on the myriad of issues each side is dealing with.
• Lance Hornby provides us with an update on Peter Zezel’s condition which apparently isn’t very good.   (Writer’s note: Wishing Peter the best.)
• Jonas Gustavsson, the highly coveted free agent Swedish netminder, has put his NHL dreams on hold as he deals with the passing of his mother.

AHL playoffs:

• The Manitoba Moose have advanced to the AHL Calder Cup Final.
• The Moose will be up against the Hershey Bears for the Cup, as Hershey defeated Providence yesterday to take the Eastern Conference title.

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Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• “That would definitely be really interesting,” said former Penguins winger Marian Hossa about meeting the Penguins in the Stanley Cup Final.  It is hard to believe Dan Bylsma could have imagined things would have come to him this fast.  While most think the series is over, Pittsburgh still knows there is some work to do.  Meanwhile, Sidney Crosby’s beard is leaving much to be desired.  Speaking of Crosby, with extra time off between games two and three, coach Bylsma was able to get his two superstars some extra ice time.  They are up 3-0 in the series, but that doesn’t mean Brooks Orpik is satisfied.
• Needless to say, the Penguins aren’t anticipating that the Hurricanes have thrown in the towel quite yet.  Luke Decock thinks the Hurricanes have looked completely worn down in Round 3.  Obviously coach Paul Maurice sees a bigger issue and that has been the Hurricanes’ poor defensive coverage.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• The Blackhawks were embarassed on home ice yesterday afternoon, writes Dave Dye of the Detroit News.  Embarassed by a team without its captain and leading goal-scorer no less.  Keep in mind that Detroit players were very surprised to be without Nicklas Lidstrom on Sunday.  Chicago was clueless yesterday, writes Steve Schrader of the Detroit Free Press.  Marian Hossa had a lot to do with yesterday’s dominating performance.
• “We witnessed probably the worst call in the history of sports [Sunday] at the end of the [first] period there,” said coach Joel Quenneville about the call on Matt Walker at the end of the first period.  Rick Morrissey thinks Quenneville knows the Red Wings are just too good.  Meantime, Steve Rosenbloom of the Chicago Tribune cannot get over how bad Sunday’s game was.  It is fair to say people were pining for Nikolai Khabibulin after Cristobal Huet’s performance.  “We can’t win three games at once, so we just have to worry about Wednesday’s game in Detroit,” said Patrick Kane, as he tries to put Game 4 behind him.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Bruce Dowbiggen thinks Hockey Night in Canada condones head shots.  (Writer’s note:  I think Dowbiggen is getting carried away here.  That may have been interference, but it was certainly not a head shot.)
• Adrian Dater tells us that reports out of Montreal have Patrick Roy being offered the head coaching position and the open GM position of the Avalanche.
• Perhaps the Lightning will decide to keep the number two overall selection in the NHL Entry Draft instead of trading it?
• Gary Loewen of the Toronto Sun says, among many other things, that the NHL’s third round has been a dud.
• Who is ready for the Don Cherry movie?
• Heather Schroeder sure loves her Phoenix Coyotes.
• Top Capitals prospects Karl Alzner has not been able to suit up for Hershey in the AHL playoffs the past two weeks because of a concussion.

AHL Playoffs

• Even though they’ve dropped two consecutive games to Houston, the Moose are not panicking at all, writes Gary Lawless.
• The Providence Bruins blew another 2-0 lead in Game 4 and now trail their best-of-seven Conference Finals 3-1 to the Hershey Bears.

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Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• The Penguins themselves are in awe of both Crosby and Malkin.  Pittsburgh has held its own it the face-off circle this series.  Good teams have that killer instinct, and that is exactly what the Penguins demonstrated last night.  Joe Starkey of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review thinks the Penguins are better this season than last.
• “This isn’t going to be a four-game series,” said Hurricanes defenseman Tim Gleason after his team fell behind 3-0 in the series.  Cam Ward has not been at his best in this series.  The combination of Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby is proving to be overpowering.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• The Red Wings are going to do their best to get to Cristobal Huet.  Dave Dye of the Detroit News thinks it is doubtful that Pavel Datsyuk will play today.  Kris Draper is also doubtful.  The aftermath of Niklas Kronwall’s hit should make this series more heated.  Remember when Chris Chelios said he’d never play for Detroit?
• The Blackhawks are still mad about Kronwall’s hit.  Even though he was hit hard, the Hawks are hoping Havlat can play today.  If Martin Havlat cannot dress today, Colin Fraser is expected to take his place.  Here is an interesting profile of Hawks forward Patrick Sharp.  “What’s going on in Chicago is fantastic,” said NBC boss Dick Ebersol.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Here is Kevin Paul Dupont’s Sunday notes article.
• Bruins defenseman Aaron Ward has been taken aback by the harsh feelings towards him in Carolina.
• In Bucky Gleason’s Inside the NHL, he discusses Scotty Bowman’s time in Chicago.
• Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch is calling for an annual best GM trophy to be presented at the NHL Awards Show.
• In his Wild Insider, Michael Russo tells us that new Panthers GM Chuck Fletcher really values draft picks.  Lou Nanne thinks the Chuck Fletcher hire is a great one.  Fletcher already has permission to interview Todd Richards for the Wild head coaching job.
• Larry Brooks says the Devils should let Brent Sutter out of his contract.
• Rich Chere talks about the falling cap levels expected the next two seasons.
• Jim Matheson wonders whether Kevin Dineen could be the next coach of the Oilers?

AHL playoffs:

• Having blown a 3-0 series lead, and now only being up 3-2, the pressure is on the Manitoba Moose, writes Tim Campbell.

Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• The Penguins should be ready for Cam Ward’s best tonight.  It works to the Penguins’ advantage that they continue to outshoot everyone.  Well, that and the fact Evgeni Malkin has been a dominating force lately.  Additionally, the Penguins should anticipate one of the loudest crowds they’ve ever played in front of tonight.  Even though he hasn’t played in a game for a while now, Pascal Dupuis is keeping a good attitude.  Off the ice, the Penguins have named Jason Botteril new assistant GM.
• Paul Maurice has changed some since his first tenure with Carolina.  What about coach Maurice’s contract?  Luke Decock with a funny cliche filled article.  If the Hurricanes want to win, they have to slow down Evgeni Malkin.  Slowing down Evgeni Malkin is important, but Eric Staal stepping out his game is probably most important.

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• Michael Rosenberg gives the Blackhawks credit for their resilience.  Nicklas Lidstrom’s stick breaking was the key that led to Patrick Sharp’s goal.  Niklas Kronwall’s hit was legal, says Detroit.  The hit was illegal, says Chicago.  Meanwhile, Mike Babcock knows Brad Stuart’s game takes a step up at playoff time.
• “We’re a pretty confident group. Our third period was one of the strongest we’ve played all playoffs,” said overtime hero Patrick Sharp.  The Blackhawks just don’t know how to win without excitement.  Cristobal Huet was perfect in the third period and overtime after coming in to replace Nikolai Khabibulin.  Apparently Khabibulin has a lower-body problem.  If the Hawks don’t have Martin Havlat for Game 4, that is a huge loss for Chicago.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Here is Eric Duhatschek’s weekly notebook, easily one of the best reads of the week.
• Bruins defenseman Matt Hunwick made a lot of progress this year and was very much missed against Carolina.
• Apparently prized free agent Jonas Gustavsson is considering signing in Colorado.
• New Minnesota Wild GM Chuck Fletcher wants the WIld to play an up-tempo style next season.  Read Cliff Fletcher’s take on his son’s hiring.
• Mark Everson is reporting that Bobby Holik is going to retire.
• Steve Stamkos really proved himself at the World Championships.

Mike Keenan firing

• Former Flames GM Craig Button says Mike Keenan isn’t the only one to blame in Calgary.  Flames center Craig Conroy was surprised by the move.  People are still calling for Darryl Sutter to return behind the bench.  Robyn Regehr thinks Keenan was a coach better off in the 80′s and 90′s.  Brent Sutter feels bad about Mike Keenan’s firing.  “Our team did not meet expectations,” said Darryl Sutter.
• Brent Sutter has told the NY Post that Mike Keenan’s firing will not affect his decision to return to the Devils or not.  Sutter has also told Rich Chere of the Newark Star-Ledger he doesn’t want to work under his brother.

The Coyotes situation:

• What if the City of Winnipeg followed the Green Bay Packers model?
• The largest creditor of the Coyotes supports Jim Balsillie’s bid.

The AHL Playoffs

• The Manitoba Moose are heading home to play a sixth game against the Houston Aeros, after last night’s overtime loss at the Toyota Center.
• The Providence Bruins blew a big lead last night and lost Game 3 to Hershey.

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Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Evgeni Malkin was that dominant on Thursday, explains Dave Molinari.  The Penguins’ other supersatar tied a record last night.  Nice to see the Staal brothers bickering over face-offs.  What was Chris Kunitz’s play like before he finally scored last night?  For all the success of the Penguins’ stars, where have the Hurricanes’ best players been?  Last night’s game was more intense than Game 1.
• “We’re just finding a hard time finding that push,” said coach Paul Maurice after last night’s game.  The Canes just could not stop Evgeni Malkin.  In good news, Erik Cole said he felt good after playing last night.  Meanwhile, Ryan Bayda may get suspended for his late game actions.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• Jeremy Roenick is claiming that Mike Babcock doesn’t like Chris Chelios and American players in general.  Speaking of Chelios, Mitch Albom quizzes the veteran defenseman about Chicago compared to Detroit.  It appears Pavel Datsyuk could possibly miss Game 3.  If that is the case, Detroit’s depth will become that much more important.  Some are wondering if the Wings can keep playing this well without their top scorers performing at normal levels? Meantime, the Wings players know that the United Center will be as loud as ever tonight.  For whatever reason, journeymen players always look great playing for the Wings.
• Rocky Wirtz says people still don’t really know what Versus is.  On the ice, Patrick Kane knows it is time for him to improve his play dramatically.  The Blackhawks defense has to stop with the uncharacteristic turnovers immediately.  As well, Nikolai Khabibulin has to outplay Chris Osgood tonight.  Chicago was physical in the first two games of this series, but they hope the home crowd makes them even more physical in Game 3.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Should we take Todd Richards’ name off the list of possible candidates to coach the Oilers next season?
• Phil Kessel is expected to be out of commission for 4-6 months after undergoing successful shoulder surgery.
• Andy Vuong of the Denver Post thinks the Avalanche are going about their next coaching hire the wrong way.  Staying in Denver, Adrian Dater reminds us that greatness on the ice is certainly not a guarantee of success behind the bench.
• Jim Souhan of the Star Tribune says the Wild made a good choice for GM.  Sid Hartman says the Wild got its first choice, a much better deal than the Timberwolves were able to pull off.  Chuck Fletcher is a tremendously qualified candidate, writes Michael Russo.  Here is his portfolio.  (Writer’s note: This really is a great hire.  I thought Fletcher probably should have been considered the favorite from the outset because of his vast experience in so many different areas.  Look for Fletcher to do a great job in the land of 10,000 lakes.)
• Niclas Havelid isn’t playing in the NHL next season.

The Coyotes situation:

• Randy Turner of the Winnipeg Free Press wants Jim Balsillie to be a little bit more honest about his dream of a seventh franchise in Canada.
• Some NY Senators oppose the Coyotes relocation to Southern Ontario.
• What about the Coyotes’ lease?

The AHL playoffs:

• Providence netminder Tuukka Rask thinks he is ready for the NHL.

Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Evgeni Malkin has almost already surpassed his playoff point totals from last season.  Sidney Crosby affects the game in so many ways it is scary.  Just as their parents would want it, the Staal’s were 50% against each other on face-offs in Game 1.  Dave Molinari touches on the Penguins’ defense and its propensity for scoring goals this playoffs.  Rob Scuderi may not get on the scoresheet, but he does all the little things that his teammates notice.  The NHL has chosen not to suspend Matt Cooke.
• Luke Decock of the News & Observer says the Hurricanes have to be better in every facet of the game tonight.  That task could be a lot more difficult, as it appears both Erik Cole and Tuomo Ruutu could miss tonight’s game.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• Mikael Samuelsson just scores big goals, writes Helene St. James.  Samuelsson may be clutch, but Chris Osgood is a salary cap MVP, explains Drew Sharp.  Mike Babcock was sure to give his team Wednesday off.  After being a healthy scratch for the past three games, it looks like Kirk Maltby will be checking back into the lineup for Game 3.  The odds of winning this series seem pretty good for Detroit.  Are the Wings destined to repeat?
• The Blackhawks may have lost in overtime on Tuesday, but Versus won with big ratings in the Chicago area.  “It’s a goon game now“, says the great Glen Hall about today’s game.  Chicago may be down 2-0 but they feel like they were better in Game 2 and still have room to improve.  Tim Sassone says the Hawks need to stop turning the puck over so much.  Barry Rozner tries to scare Chicago fans by warning them that the Wings haven’t played their best game yet.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Pierre McGuire really wants the GM spot in Minnesota.
• In Boston, Manny Fernandez may be backing off his mid-season comments about retirement being a distinct possibility.  Staying with the Bruins, Peter Chiarelli has been selected Executive of the Year.
• The more you read, the more you think Patrick Roy is on his way to the NHL, probably with the Avalanche.
• Jim Day will apparently no longer be a part of Fox Sports Ohio’s Columbus Blue Jackets coverage next season.
• Mike Richards comments on the difficulties of having two shoulders surgically repaired in the same summer.

The Coyotes situation:

• The National Post tells you everything you need to know about the Coyotes issue.
• Mediation 101 courtesy of the National Post as well.
• Looks like there could be a local buyer in Phoenix that could bid on the team if given the chance.  (Writer’s note: After looking at these numbers, I’m not so sure anyone would want to do that.)
• Phoenix versus Canada.
• This whole Coyotes situation reminds Damien Cox of the Saskatoon controversy from years back.
• Regardless of what everyone else is saying, Balsillie sure seems confident that his dream will come true. 

The AHL Playoffs:

• The Moose’s ten-game winning streak came to an end last night, as the Houston Aeros won Game 4 of the Western Conference Final by a score of 5-4.
• A rib injury will keep Byron Bitz out of the Providence Bruins lineup for the remainder of the AHL playoffs.

Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Pittsburgh coach Dan Bylsma was impressed with the Hurricanes’ performance in Game 1.  The Penguins need some offensive production from Chris Kunitz.  One of the keys for Kunitz breaking out of his struggles, is to put more shots on net.  Brooks Orpik comments on his on-ice rivalry with Erik Cole.  The Penguins’ power play is rolling right now.  Who is former Steelers coach Bill Cowher hoping for in Round 3?
• “I do not think it looks good for either player,” said Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford about the playing statuses of both Tuomo Ruutu and Eric Cole for Game 2.  The conspiracy theorists are out in full force for this series.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• “You need your goalie to win games for you in the playoffs, and Ozzie did today,” said Henrik Zetterberg about Chris Osgood’s performance last night.  Drew Sharp of the Detroit Free Press is already prononcing this series over.  Mitch Albom thinks the Hawks missed their best chance to make a dent in this series.  It is amazing the Wings are playing this well, even without goals from the team’s big-time scorers.  “We need two days in between games so bad, it’s not even funny, just to re-energize,” said Wings coach Mike Babcock after Game 2.
• “It was a brutal loss today,” said Chicago coach Joel Quenneville after yesterday’s heartbreaker.  Brian Campbell says that he’d make the same play at the blue line again, even though his turnover led to the Wings’ winning goal.  Campbell should have known better, writes Barry Rozner.  Rick Morrissey thinks the Hawks are probably done.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Here are the top 10 highlights from the Ducks’ season.
• It appears Phil Kessel could find himself on his way out of Boston this off-season.  Speaking of Kessel, both he and David Krejci are set to undergo off-season surgery that will most likely see them miss the beginning of next season.  Meanwhile, Bruins rookie Blake Wheeler already wants to get back on the ice and prove his worth.
• Mark Kiszla of the Denver Post says that if Patrick Roy is smart, he won’t take the Avalanche coaching job.  Find out what Patrick Roy’s mom thinks of the situation.
• Daniel Briere’s eye surgery was deemed a success.

The Coyotes situation:

• Craig Harris of the Arizona Republic updates readers on what happened during yesterday’s court hearing.
• The City of Glendale is now getting involved in this mess.
• Both sides can find reasons to be optimistic after yesterday’s results, writes Kevin McGran.
• Jim Balsillie’s lawyer took yesterday’s hearing to be a plus for his side.
• Damien Cox explains to readers what judge Redfield Baum was like yesterday.
• Bob Hunter of the Columbus Dispatch finds himself rooting for the Coyotes to move north.
• Regardless of the outcome, this is a zero-sum game for both sides, writes Bruce Dowbiggen.
• Don’t expect a successful appeal of Judge Baum’s final ruling.
• While the case continues in the desert, Winnipeg politicians chime in on the possibility that a NHL team may one day return to Winnipeg.  (Writer’s note: Somebody tell Hugh McFadyen that teams plays 41 home games not 80.)

The AHL Playoffs:

• For whatever reason, Jason Krog always finds himself playing for a league championship at the end of most seasons.  Kirk Penton of the Winnipeg Sun says the Moose can play better.

**Remember to listen to the IllegalCurve.com Radio Show tonight from 8pm CST until 10pm CST.  Tonight’s guests include Allan Maki of the Globe & Mail.**

Here is a picture passed along to me late this afternoon by a Chicago fan.  Should be a good one tonight.

• Luke Decock of the News & Observer thinks Tuomo Ruutu will play on Thursday but Erik Cole will not.  His offensive numbers haven’t been strong this playoffs, but Cole’s loss is still very significant.
• Tim Sassone says the Hawks may very well learn more from losing their current series against Detroit than they did beating either Calgary or Vancouver.  If the Hawks have a chance in this series, Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook will have to play ten times better than they did on Sunday.
• People who see Pavel Datsyuk as only a goal-scorer are missing the big picture.  Agreed.  This guy is about as good an all-around player as there is in the game today.
• Maybe Miroslav Satan’s playoff performance shouldn’t be surprising people as much as it is.  Interesting piece.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• In Anaheim, Chris Pronger knows it is possible he could be moved this summer.  It will be decision time for Bob Murray this summer.  On one hand, he could choose to ride out Pronger’s remaining year and go for a Cup run.  On the other hand, he could trade Pronger while he still has a year left on his deal before possibly losing him for nothing.  Should be an interesting summer in SoCal.
• It seems like Manny Fernandez is seriously considering retirement.  If you’ve been reading his comments all season long, retirement kind of seems likely at this point.
• In other Boston news, Claude Julien has won Sporting News Coach of the Year.  They may have lost out in the second round, but few predicted so much success for Boston this season and that’s a testament to the job Julien did.
• Erik Erlendsson gained a lot of respect for Mark Recchi this season.  He’s a veteran leader for sure.

Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Shelly Anderson with a quick recap of Game 1.  Many of the Penguins were giving credit to Marc-Andre Fleury for keeping the team in last night’s contest.  Apparently Pittsburgh Tribune-Review columnist Joe Starkey felt the same way.  Fleury was good, but two unlikely contributors were also the key for Pittsburgh on Monday.  “He was cutting across the middle. I turned sideways to hit him, and he turned the other way. I almost fell over, too,” said Matt Cooke about his hit on Erik Cole.  (Writer’s note: Let’s call a spade a spade.  Matt Cooke is a dirty hockey player and has been for sometime now.  He continually makes cheap plays and last night’s hit on Cole was no exception.)   Penguins fans unfamiliar with Tuomo Ruutu should realize his game is very different from his brother’s.
• He was very, very good but last night Hurricanes fans realized that Cam Ward is, in fact, human.  It is not like the Canes haven’t been down 1-0 before this playoff season.  Scott Walker has more important things on his mind than hockey, but it helps that his wife is tougher than his teammates.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• Mike Babcock wants his Red Wings players to improve in the puck control department for Game 2.  Having been a veteran of so many playoff battles, do not expect Tomas Holmstom to panic because of his current goal-scoring drought, writes George Sipple.  Superstitions are running rampant in the Wings dressing room.  Even though he’s been a Red Wing for a while now, Chris Chelios still has a place in his heart for Chicago.
• Can Patrick Kane bounce back from a poor Game 1 performance?  Jonathan Toews will also try to do the same.  It will certainly help if they leave Game 1′s performance behind him like the rest of their teammates have done.  WIll Wings fans want to fight Bob Probert after hearing that he’s rooting for Chicago?  Many Blackhawks fans probably remember Daniel Clearly from his days with the Hawks, and boy, has he come a long way.  “The thing is against him is you need to be hungry to keep the puck and not give it up,” said Jonathan Toews about playing against Nicklas Lidstrom.  Mike Imrem of the Chicago Herald wonders why Dale Tallon doesn’t get more credit for the job he’s done in Chicago?

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Here is some video on the possibility of Teemu Selanne retiring from the OC Register.
• What’s next for the Bruins?  Meanwhile, Bruins netminder Tim Thomas is going to try not to agonize all summer long over the Game 7 overtime goal he let in.  Sure they had a heartbreaking loss, but at least the team is trying to learn from this setback and move forward.  In other Boston news, long-term Bruins forward P.J. Axelsson may have played his final game for the franchise.
• Patrick Roy may deny it, but Adrian Dater is reporting that the choice is up to him whether he coaches the Avalanche next season or not.
• Michael Russo gives readers an inside view at the personality and perspectives of Minnesota Wild acting GM Tom Lynn.
• In Philadelphia, Flyers center Daniel Briere has decided to undergo corrective eye surgery.
• Some notes about the Sharks, courtesy of John Ryan.

The Coyotes situation:

• Could Jim Balsillie be stuck with the Coyotes in Phoenix?
• David Naylor elicits help from Bankruptcy experts in an attempt to predict which way the court will rule today.
• Apparently if Balsillie loses the court ruling, he won’t appeal.
• Winning cures everything, writes Paolo Boivin of the Arizona Republic.
• Craig Harris of the Arizona Republic has an interesting piece examining whether the Coyotes really are viable in Phoenix.
• Did only 7,000 homes tune into Coyotes games on television in the Phoenix area last season?
• One thing is for certain, the other professional sports league are supporting the NHL.

AHL Playoffs:

• The Manitoba Moose have taken a commanding 3-0 series lead over the Houston Aeros in the Western Conference Final.

Goaltending

Experience versus Experience.  Osgood was drafted in 1991 and Khabibulin was drafted in 1992.   Osgood was a member of the Stanley Cup Champion Detroit Red Wings in 1997, 1998, 2008 (as starter in 1998 and 2008).  Khabibulin won as the starter in Tampa’s 2004 run to the Stanley Cup.  Both goalies are solid, technically sound and know what it takes to win. 

Edge: Even

Defence:

The Detroit core of Lidstrom, Rafalski, Stuart, Kronwall were incredibly solid in front of Osgood in the first 2 rounds.  They continue to limit the shots he faced (3rd best in the playoffs at 27.5 per game).  Lidstrom continues to show that he is not only the best defensive defenceman on the Wings but also the most potent weapon on offence (#1 points overall for defenceman).

The Hawks defence has continued to improve throughout the playoffs.  Keith and Seabrook are both playing over 25 minutes per game.  Brian Campbell is quietly putting together quite an impressive playoff run.  He has the most points for a Hawks defenceman and is a +5 which is 2nd only to the Wings Lidstrom(+6).  As with the Hawks forwards, nobody told the defence that they aren’t supposed to be ready to be playing at this high a level but they continue to impress. 

Edge: Hawks

Forwards:

If I asked you who provided a significant portion of the scoring for the Wings through two round’s my guess is you would say Datsyuk, Zetterberg, Franzen and Hossa.  Well you’d be partly right and partly wrong.  The Wings scoring machine was led by Franzen (5th overall in points) and Zetterberg (8th) but the next in the Wings attack were Dan Cleary (26th) and Jiri Hudler (28th).  The Wings come at you with all 4 lines and any one player has the ability to lead Detroit on any given night.  I expect Hossa and Datsyuk to step up in Round 3 and really display the true firepower in the Wings arsenal.

The names speak for themselves; Havlat, Kane, Toews, Versteeg, Sharp and Bolland.  Add in solid role players like Byfuglien and Burrish round out this list of young talent who have taken the Hawks soaring to unimaginable heights.  None of the Hawks are in the top 10 for points but they have spread out the scoring to create a balanced attack that the Wings defence is not going to enjoy facing.  As stated in the breakdown of the Hawks defence, these guys have everyone telling them they will be good in a few years, but continue to show that they are ready for the big show right now. 

Edge: Slightly Detroit

Special Teams:

We’ve played two rounds of playoff hockey and from the Wings we continue to get the same old thing.  Fantastic powerplay and anemic penalty kill.  I’m not sure what the disconnect is, but if they can limit the chances for the Hawks and continue to capitalize on the opportunities they are given, then the Wings should be ok. 

Similar to the Wings, the Hawks have an even more sizzling power play (1st overall) coupled with a cold as ice penalty kill.  Common sense would suggest that the best thing the Hawks can do is stay disciplined against this Veteran Detroit team and use their speed when on the power play to do some damage.

Edge: Even

Past Playof History:

If you’re a Hawks fan you want to remember 1991/92 when the Hawks led by Carmen, Manitoba’s Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Belfour, swept the Wings on their way to the Cup finals versus the Penguins. 

If you’re a Red Wings fans you want to look back at 1994/95 when the Wings beat the Hawks in double OT to win the series in 5.  (if any IC readers can find video of the Game 5 Double OT goal I would appreciate it)

Interestingly both teams (91/92 Hawks and 94/95 Wings) were swept in the Stanley Cup Finals.  (Hawks by a Mario Lemieux led Penguins and Wings by a young Martin Brodeur).

Bottom Line:

This is the 15th time that the Red Wings and Blackhawks have met in the post season.  With the exception of the goalies we have a young, up and coming Hawks teams versus a wily, veteran Wings team.  Detroit’s players with the exception of Hossa and Conklin have rings.  The Hawks only have 3 rings on the team (Andrew Ladd, Sammy Pahlsson and Nikolai Khabibulin).  In the end I feel that experience will win this series and ultimately the team from the Motor City will be victorious.

Winner:  Detroit in 6.

TSN’s Maggie the Macaque feels differently;

Maggie the Macaque has not had a great playoff run thus far in 2009, but Canada’s favourite predicting primate has high hopes for her picks in the Conference Finals.

Maggie sits at 4-8 after the first two rounds and on Friday spun the wheel to determine her selections for the Detroit Red Wings-Chicago Blackhawks Western Final and Pittsburgh Penguins-Carolina Hurricanes Eastern Final.

In the West, Maggie is going with Patrick Kane and the exciting young Blackhawks to knock the defending Stanley Cup Champion Red Wings from the playoffs.

As always feel free to share your thoughts with us on who you expect to prevail in the battle between Chicago and Detroit.