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.

Guillaume Latendresse – Scoring a goal.  Playing in 1st game back since concussion.

Cal Clutterbuck – Thoughts on the game.  Playing through injuries.  Talking about the Bogosian hit.  Wild turnovers.  MTS atmosphere.

Coach Mike Yeo – Talking about hit.  Game summary.  Soft plays with puck.  Maintaining focus.  Thoughts on Latendresse play.  MTS Centre atmosphere.  Setting tone for good rivalry.  Preparing for Chicago.

Mikko Koivu – How the Wild have had success.  What Mike Yeo has brought to the table.  Close-knit team?  What Dany Heatley brings to the squad.  What Antti Miettinen will bring to the Jets.  What the guys know about the Jets team.  Talks about MTS Centre.

Dany Heatley - What has led the Wild to being so successful.  What the Wild are like.  Developed chemistry quickly.

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

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

Read the entire terrific article here.

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

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

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

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

Wild Scrimmage

Minnesota Wild Scrimmage II

Wild Scrimmage III

Wild Training Camp IV

Wild Scrimmage V

Wild Scrimmage VI

Forwards

Under Jacques Lemaire’s trapping system, he emphasized the use of one forechecker pressuring the puck, while the other forwards focus on taking away passing lanes.  Lemaire’s system is actually quite restrictive for centers, as he prefers that one of the two wingers forecheck and has the center stay high in the system virtually all the time (yes, even in the offensive zone). 

Well, expect lots of change to the Wild’s forechecking and offensive zone strategy under new coach Todd Richards.  The former head coach of  Wilkes-Barre Scranton of the AHL, wants to push the pace of play (think Tortorella in Tampa and New York) and increase scoring in the land of 10,000 lakes.  While his style is welcomed by many Wild fans, it may take sometime for the personnel to catch up with the systematic changes the team is currently undergoing.

The Wild’s top all-around forward is Mikko Koivu.  Koivu has good size (6″2, 205 pounds”), skates really well, is strong positionally and has very good offensive instincts.  He, as a center, was certainly restricted offensively by playing under Lemaire–granted he was a favorite of Lemaire’s for his two-way prowess.  In any event, Koivu lead the Wild in scoring last season with 67 points and considering his age (26), expect his point totals to increase this season.

Mikko Koivu could breakout this season with more offensive freedom. (Picture courtesy of sportsnet.ca)

With the loss of Marian Gaborik (I’m sure Wild fans must be quietly smirking at word that Gaborik is already “sore” in Rangers camp), the team is hoping to replace his lost offense with that of Martin Havlat.  I have to admit, I’m a Havlat fan.  He has tremendous skill, is arguably a top-five NHL stickhandler, can shoot the puck and brings it when it matters most.  Unfortunately, his biggest drawback, like Gaborik, is that he is injury prone (190 games played over the past four seasons).  If he stays healthy, which he did last season in Chicago (although some would point to his pending free agent status as one reason for that), he can produce at a clip similar to that of Gaborik–especially at even strength where Gaborik’s loss was always so crippling to the Wild’s chances.

Koivu and Havlat and Pierre-Marc Bouchard are the team’s most dangerous offensive players.  Bouchard (25 years old) is a diminutive player who possesses more offense talent than his numbers have indicated over the years.  He can skate like the wind and has a terrific shot.  Of course, his size is a detriment to his ability to battle for pucks, but his awareness should be able to sufficiently offset that drawback.  Last season, Bouchard was in the first year of a new contract and struggled to return to his 2007/08 form.  With a new more offensive coach and more ice-time as a result (he played under 17:00 minutes per contest last season), Bouchard could very easily exceed his previous career highs.

After the top three, the Wild’s roster is composed of a combination of veterans and unestablished youngsters.

The veterans include Andrew Brunette, Owen Nolan and Antti Miettinen.  Brunette is getting up there (36 years old) but is still strong on the boards, can complement offensive players by playing a responsible two-way game and can throw in 20 goals for good measure.  Additionally, his presence in the locker room should not be understated.

Nolan brings a different veteran presence to the table.  He is rough around the edges, plays a mean game and has a terrific slap shot.  The former number one overall pick has certainly lost a step over the years, but he was still the Wild’s fourth leading scoring at even strength last season.

Antti Miettinen was a nice off-season signing by the old regime last summer.  He contributed on a line with Brunette and Koivu for a large part of last season and contributed some respectable offensive totals (15 goals).  Unfortunately for Wild fans, Miettinen is more of a third line player than a top-six forward–the role in which he was primarily used last season–so, if the Wild is to have success, Miettinen’s role probably cannot be anymore than it was in 2008/09 (18:00+ minutes per game).

If the Wild is to make a step forward this season, the performances of James Sheppard, Colton Gillies and Cal Clutterbuck will have a lot to do with that.

Sheppard was drafted in the top ten of the 2006 Entry Draft and has yet to demonstrate  (on a regular basis) why he was so highly regarded.  He played in all 82 games last season and posted an ugly line of 24 points and a -14 rating.  While he only played just over 15:00 minutes per game, he was given equal time on the penalty kill and the power play and was anything but productive at even strength.  Luckily he is only 21 and has the offensive talent to far exceed last season’s totals; the 2009/10 season will be a big one for the former QMJHL star.

Colton Gillies came along last season and impressed many onlookers.  He get much ice-time or post high point totals but for a 19 year old to crack a Lemaire coached team, you have to be doing something right.  Gillies is big and uses his size to his advantage.  Given time, he will turn into a very productive power forward, however, next season may be a little bit too early to predict a breakout season.

Cal Clutterbuck became a cult hero in Minnesota last season.  The man is a wrecking ball and had a whopping 258 more hits than the next closest player on the Wild (no that was not a typo).  Clutterbuck actually led the entire NHL in hits last season with 356 and contributed a respectable 11 goals, as well.  He is only 21, so expect him to be a crowd favorite in Minnesota for a long time.

Among the veterans, let’s not forget Eric Belanger.  He was second on the Wild in face-off percentage (52% win rate) and played significant time (over 2:00 minutes) of both power play and penalty kill time per game.  At 31 years old and with the Wild in somewhat of a rebuilding mode, I expect Belanger’s ice-time to come down a bit from last season where he saw the ice more than 17:00 minute per game.

Filling out the team’s fourth line will be newly acquired Kyle Brodziak who played the last few seasons with the Edmonton Oilers.  Brodziak is your typical fourth line center, he won over 50% of his face-offs in 2008/09 (51.6%), plays a responsible two-way game and is fairly limited offensively. 

Along with Brodziak, the Wild has arguably the most intimidating fighter in the NHL in Derek Boogaard.  The Saskatoon native is 6″8, 257 pounds and plays bigger than that.  Seriously, he may hit harder than anyone I have ever seen and his presence on the ice is evident in the way opposing skill players play when he is around on the boards. 

The Wild is also hoping for Benoit Pouliot to prove his worth, as he, like Sheppard, was once upon a time a top ten draft selection.  Pouliot did not really see eye-to-eye with the old regime, so maybe the new cast in town will instill a breath of fresh air into the skilled forward. 

Finally, the Wild has just recently brought in Petr Sykora on a tryout contract, but Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune says it is basically a done deal that Sykora signs on for a one-year deal.  If so, Sykora should add a nice scoring element to the Wild’s forwards.  He is not especially fast but is a smart player with a good shot.  His addition should help the power play, but anything more than 16-20 goals should not be expected.

All in all the Wild boasts a respectable forward group; however, it is nothing spectacular and is probably going to be the reason that the Wild misses the playoffs again this season.

Defensemen

After talking up Brent Burns all last summer, the multi-talented defenseman went through a rough 2008/09 season making me look a tad foolish.  After a prolonged stint at forward (still do not understand that) and concussion issues, Burns had a very difficult season.  Coming into this season, he appears refreshed and ready to once again take over as the Wild’s go-to defenseman.  When healthy, Burns can be a shutdown defenseman because of his skating and defensive awareness.  Additionally, he has the ability to alter the course of a game with his offensive skill.  In fact, if he starts off the season well, I would not be surprised at all to see him make Team Canada 2010.

If Brent Burns returns to his 2007/08 form, he could be wearing the Maple Leaf in Vancouver. (Picture courtesy of tsn.ca)

Joining Burns on the back-end is another puck-mover in Marek Zidlicky.  The smooth-skating former Predators defenseman had a bit of an up-and-down transition to Minnesota in 2008/09.  At times he looked great and others he looked lost.  Overall, he logged over 22:00 minutes a night and was a key member of the team’s power play.  His offensive skills are evident, he led the Wild defense with 42 points in 76 games last season (17 at even strength) and makes a terrific first pass.  Unfortunately, he has his drawbacks in his own zone, as he can get caught out of position at times and his size sometimes allows him to be pushed around in the corners. 

Along with the two offensive defensemen listed above, the Wild has stay-at-home defenseman Nick Schultz to play against the other team’s top offensive players.  Schultz is limited offensively, but is physical (led the team’s defensemen with 78 hits), blocks shots (led the team’s defensemen with 152 blocked shots) and can log over 20:00 minutes per game (3:20 per game on the penalty kill).  Schultz is a very important cog and is a leader for this group, as well.

So far, three Wild defensemen have been listed, yet the team’s leader in ice-time last season, Kim Johnsson, has yet to be discussed.  Johnsson skates extremely well and can play in all game situations (24:00+ minutes per game).  His offensive game isn’t what it once was when he played in Philadelphia and New York but he still added a respectable 24 points in 2008/09 (16 of which were at even strength).  Also, his ability to make a strong first pass helps the Wild’s transition game.

The aforementioned four defensemen were obviously with the team last season, so Greg Zanon is the first newcomer we will breakdown.  Zanon is one of my favorites.  He logged over 20:00 minutes per game on a very deep Nashville defense last season.  Moreover, he blocked shots, laid hits and was an underrated presence on the Nashville back-end.  At $1.7 million this season, Wild fans will grow to love Zanon as a real bargain.

Fighting for the team’s final starting defense spot will be the likes of John Scott and Shane Hnidy, although with the depth listed above (all five aforementioned defensemen played over 20:00 minutes per game last season) this spot isn’t overly significant.

As a group, I really think the Wild is strong on the back-end.  There is a good mix of veterans and players in their primes.  If the team is to make the playoffs, these defensemen need to contribute at both ends of the ice and stay relatively healthy.

Goaltending

The Wild has no issues in between the pipes.  Niklas Backstrom had a .923 save percentage last season and was nominated for the Vezina Trophy.  The Finnish netminder is a stalwart for the Wild back there and posted an impressive eight shutouts last season.  Barring a poor decision by Finnish hockey, Backstrom should be starting for his home country in the 2010 Olympics.  Also, if you are concerned that Backstrom is a one year wonder, don’t be; he posted a .920 save percentage in 2007/08 and .929 save percentage in 2006/07.  Yes, he is really that good.

Niklas Bacstrom is the real deal. (Picture courtesy of sportsnet.ca)

Backing up Backstrom is Josh Harding.  Harding would be a starter on most other NHL teams but unfortunately for the Ontario native he is locked in behind Backstrom.  Harding will most likely see himself traded–once the Wild receives what Fletcher believes to be a fair market offer–because Backstrom just signed a new four-year, $24 million deal.  So, Harding and his .929 save percentage and 2.21 G.A.A. is probably not long for Minnesota. 

Prediction

Ceiling: The Wild gets stellar goaltending as per usual, stays healthy on defense and adjusts well to the new coach.  3rd place in the Northwest Division and 8th place in the Western Conference.

Floor: The Wild still cannot score on a consistent basis, doesn’t play razor tight defense like they did under Lemaire and struggle at special teams (were 9th in power play last season and 2nd in penalty kill).  4th place in the Northwest Divsion and 13th in the Western Conference.

NHL

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

Team Canada

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

Once again, I am rather blown away by the term here.  Six years for a fragile forward like Havlat seems like a lot.  But, as Chuck Fletcher probably knew going in, if you are going to make a play in free agency, then you have to be willing to go long-term. 

Here are Havlat’s games played stats from the past four NHL seasons since the lockout:  18, 56, 35, 81 (total 190).

So, the Wild has rid themselves of one injury-prone forward in Marian Gaborik, and has replaced that injury-prone player with Martin Havlat. 

Here are Gaborik’s games played stats from the past four NHL seasons since the lockout: 65, 48, 77, 17 (total 207).

For all that’s written about Gaborik, he’s been more durable than Havlat over the past four seasons and is arguably the most productive player in the NHL at even strength.  So overall, the Wild may have actually gotten a bit worse with today’s news (losing Gaborik and gaining Havlat), but at least they didn’t lose Gaborik and not replace him at all.

Todd Richards will be the second coach in Wild history, multiple sources around the NHL tell the Star Tribune.

Sources say an official offer has been made, negotiations are underway and a news conference could come as early as Tuesday to introduce Richards, an assistant with the San Jose Sharks.

Read the entire story here.

No real surprise here.  Chuck Fletcher, the new Wild GM, has a good relationship with Richards from their days in Pittsburgh together and is said to think very highly of him.  In fact, Richards was really the favorite from the outset.  After a successful stint as coach of Wilkes-Barre in the AHL, Richards moved on to coach with the Sharks and Todd McLellan last season and was not expected to be an assistant in the NHL for long.

By all accounts, Richards is a rising star  in the coaching fraternity.  He is still young at 42, coaches an aggressive system (the new way in the NHL) and is a Minnesota native to boot.  In reality, he is the perfect hire for the Wild moving forward. 

Now, Fletcher’s next job is to get Richards the personnel that will work in his system.  That, unfortunately for Wild fans, is a lot harder than hiring a head coach.

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. 

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.

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

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

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

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

Second Round Matchups

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

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

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

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

Boston Bruins (1) versus TBA

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

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus TBA

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

Teams that have been eliminated from the playoffs:

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

Teams that did not make the playoffs:

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

• As much as San Jose didn’t bring their “A” game last night, the Ducks most certainly did.  Just a great performance by the veteran group.
• Sergei Samsonov’s status for Game 6 has not yet been decided.  They could use him in Game 6, but I don’t see it being the determining factor.
• More reaction to the penalty call late in the Jackets/Wings game.  Straight up, that was a penalty.  It really wasn’t close Jackets fans.
• Both Jamie Langenbrunner and Bryce Salvador are questionable for Game 6.  With a Game 7 back home, I don’t see the Devils pushing it here if it is too close to call.
• Have trade deadline acquisitions paid off in the playoffs?  Great piece.
• An interesting interview with John Davidson.  We miss JD in the booth, but he has done a tremendous job turning that organization around.
• Taylor Pyatt has returned to the Canucks and issued a statement.  Hockey has to be the last thing on Pyatt’s mind.
• It is going to be a wild one tonight at the Verizon Center.  Desperation will definitely kick in tonight for the Caps.

Plus, some other NHL stories from around the league:

• Eric Duhatschek thinks Bob Gainey has probably closed the window on Vincent Lecavalier if he publicly called out Brian Lawton yesteday.  Great point by Duhatschek.  He mentions Briere as a possible trade candidate for Montreal.
• Elliotte Friedman isn’t convinced the Lecavalier to Montreal window has closed.  Tampa is desperate to get rid of salary, so that point is well-taken.
• Could Pierre McGuire end up being the next Wild GM?  Would be an interesting choice, as there are few who know as much about the game as McGuire.
• Rogers and TSN2 may finally be close to an agreement for GTA customers.  Stupid situation from the outset.
• Sharks fans just wanted to see some passion from their favorite team last night, but they didn’t get it.  Just an awful performance from San Jose.  They brought nothing to the table.
• Chris Higgins has been added to the U.S. squad for the World Championships.  I’m sure he’s trying to end his season on anything but the sour note that was the Habs’ “playoff run”.
• Damien Cox on video talking about the possibility of two NHL teams in Toronto.  Again, this makes too much sense for the league.  Whether there is ever any progress on this matter is another story.

Things have been action packed in Minnesota since the season ended, with Jacques Lemaire resigning and Doug Risebrough being fired.  So, there should be lots to talk about tomorrow night. 

If you have a question for Michael drop it in our mailbag and we’ll try our best to get to it.

Wild GM Doug Risebrough has been fired by owner Craig Leipold, in a surprise decision annouced by the team today.

The Wild, in an annoucement released to the media just after noon, said Risebrough’s contract will not be renewed “beyond the 2008-2009 season.”

“The entire Minnesota Wild organization is forever indebted to Doug for his substantial efforts in establishing this franchise’s solid foundation and winning tradition,” said Leipold in the statement. “The positive impact of Doug’s service will be felt for many years to come. We wish Doug the very best.”

For complete story click here.

Guess its a surprise that he was let go considering that Gaborik’s injury was a big reason they didn’t make the playoffs but it seems that Minnesota fans are ready for a change and it starts at the top.

• As linked on IC yesterday, apparently Jay Feaster has an interest in the Colorado GM job.
• Mike Heika wonders whether the Stars franchise will continue to move forward with a two-GM arrangement?
• The Oilers fired Craig MacTavish on Wednesday and Robert Tychkowski is calling the franchise a mess right now.  Many changes are on the way.  Derek Van Diest has the reaction from Steve Tambellini’s press conference.  Decisions have yet to be made on the team’s assistant coaches.  Don’t expect MacT to be out of a job for long.
• Here is a post-season chat Michael Russo had with Wild fans about the team’s disappointing season.
• More layoffs from Lightning ownership on Wednesday.
• Brian Burke is already burning up the phones lines trying to move up in the draft, writes Paul Hunter.

Eastern Conference

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western Conference

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Non-Playoff Teams

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

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

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

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

• Anyone ever wonder what its like to cook with Evgeni Malkin? 
• Madden and Gionta want to remain Devils.
• The Thrashers are dealing yet again with another early spring.
• After last night’s shootout loss to Anaheim, Nashville‘s choice of shooters are analyzed.

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	Florida	3					Minnesota	6
	Buffalo	5					NY Islanders	2
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
The Litter Box   Die by the Blade						Hockey Wilderness Lighthouse Hockey
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL		T				FINAL		T
	Ottawa	1					Calgary	0
	Carolina	2					Pittsburgh	2
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Silver Seven Canes Country						Matchsticks & Gasoline Pensburgh
Game Recap						Game Recap

FINAL SO		T				FINAL		T
	San Jose	5					Anaheim	7
	Chicago	6					Colorado	2
Game Scoresheet						Game Scoresheet
Game Threads:						Game Threads:
Fear the Fin Second City Hockey						Battle of California Mile High Hockey
Game Recap						Game Recap

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Ovechkin practices, ready to face Crosby, Penguins.
• Tocchet will return to Tampa with extension.
• Claude Lemieux: Injury Leaves Sharks Thin

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Chicago	0	1	2	3	35	C. Huet
	Boston	1	2	2	5	39	T. Thomas
Scoring Summary:
CHI:  Toews, J. (PPG, Patrick Kane, Cam Barker), Versteeg, K. (Matt Walker, Andrew Ladd), Kane, P. (PPG, Brian Campbell, Jonathan Toews)
BOS:  Recchi, M. (Chuck Kobasew, Patrice Bergeron), Krejci, D. (Andrew Ference, Dennis Wideman), Recchi, M. (Dennis Wideman, Patrice Bergeron), Kessel, P. (Marc Savard, Milan Lucic), Axelsson, P. (EN, unassisted)
Attendance: 17,565

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	New Jersey	0	2	1	3	38	M. Brodeur , K. Weekes
	NY Islanders	3	3	1	7	28	J. MacDonald
Scoring Summary:
NJD:  Gionta, B. (Colin White, Mike Mottau), Langenbrunner, J. (Bryce Salvador, Zach Parise), Elias, P. (PPG, Paul Martin, Bobby Holik)
NYI:  Martinek, R. (Dean McAmmond, Jeff Tambellini), Okposo, K. (PPG, Josh Bailey, Frans Nielsen), Tambellini, J. (Mark Streit, Joe Callahan), Bergenheim, S. (Mike Iggulden, Jack Hillen), Comeau, B. (PPG, Josh Bailey, Andy Hilbert), Bergenheim, S. (Mike Iggulden), Bergenheim, S. (EN, Jack Hillen)
Attendance: 15,524

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Minnesota	2	0	1	3	24	J. Harding , N. Backstrom
	Los Angeles	2	2	0	4	24	J. Quick
Scoring Summary:
MIN:  Nolan, O. (Andrew Brunette, Kim Johnsson), Veilleux, S. (James Sheppard), Belanger, E. (Andrew Brunette, Dan Fritsche)
LAK:  Quincey, K. (unassisted), Calder, K. (Jack Johnson), Kopitar, A. (Michal Handzus, Matt Greene), Purcell, T. (PPG, Alexander Frolov, Kyle Quincey)
Attendance: 18,118

The Minnesota Wild have locked up a big piece of their franchise as they have signed goaltender Niklas Backstrom to a four-year contract extension.

The deal is worth $6 million per season and ends all speculation that the Finnish netminder would be on the move at the NHL’s Trade Deadline on Wednesday.

Read the entire story here.

All the speculation that the Wild loves Josh Harding and saw him as the replacement for Niklas Backstrom after this season can be put to bed.  Backstrom has signed a $24 million contract with the Wild and will be a cornerstone in the net for years to come.  As much as there were rumors that he may be dealt, it appeared Backstrom was always going to remain with the Wild.  While some question his worth, considering Minnesota’s defensive style and propensity to sometime inflate goaltender statistics, Backstrom has proven this season just how important he is to the Wild’s cause.  Coach Jacques Lemaire has played him more than last season and many people would say he is the reason the Wild still has a legitimate shot at a playoff spot.  I like this contract for both the team and the player.

Now the Avery situation….

From TSN:

He’s baaaack!

As expected, the New York Rangers claimed Sean Avery on re-entry waivers today and the super pest is back in the NHL.

The Rangers are responsible for half of Avery’s remaining contract - another three years with an annual cap hit of $3.875 million. The Dallas Stars are responsible for the other half.

Read the entire story here.

I am not going to change my tune now.  I don’t see the point of taking Avery on, even at that salary.  To me, the biggest risk is the length of his current deal.  He has three more seasons after 2008/09 and has never proven that he can stay in a place for a long period of time without alienating his teammates.

His relationship with John Tortorella should be entertaining, but I don’t see how his skills help a team that is in dire need of goal scoring forwards and better defensemen.

Caught part of the Detroit/Nashville game and behind the power of Jason Arnott’s 8th career hatrick, the Preds took it to the Wings powering them to an 8-0 victory.  Amazingly Nick Lidstrom managed to stay even despite the 8 goals scored against the Wings.

FINAL OT		1	2	3	OT	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Washington	1	1	1	1	4	32	J. Theodore
	Boston	1	1	1	0	3	37	T. Thomas
Scoring Summary:
WSH:  Backstrom, N. (Alexander Semin, Mike Green), Ovechkin, A. (Matt Bradley, Milan Jurcina), Fleischmann, T. (Brooks Laich, Tom Poti), Semin, A. (in OT)
BOS:  Hunwick, M. (Marc Savard, Phil Kessel), Kessel, P. (Marc Savard, Matt Hunwick), Chara, Z. (Mike Green, Jeff Schultz)
Attendance: 17,565

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Florida	0	1	1	2	17	C. Anderson
	New Jersey	2	4	1	7	46	M. Brodeur
Scoring Summary:
FLA:  Peltonen, V. (Jassen Cullimore, Radek Dvorak), McCabe, B. (Keith Ballard, Radek Dvorak)
NJD:  Parise, Z. (Jamie Langenbrunner, Paul Martin), Parise, Z. (unassisted), Shanahan, B. (David Clarkson, Brian Rolston), Zajac, T. (Zach Parise, Patrik Elias), Rolston, B. (Brian Gionta, Colin White), Clarkson, D. (Brendan Shanahan, Johnny Oduya), Zubrus, D. (Patrik Elias, Brian Gionta)
Attendance: 16,256

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Anaheim	2	0	2	4	18	J. Giguere
	Dallas	0	2	1	3	33	M. Turco
Scoring Summary:
ANA:  Niedermayer, S. (Andrew Ebbett, Bobby Ryan), Ebbett, A. (Chris Pronger, Bobby Ryan), Perry, C. (Ryan Getzlaf, Drew Miller), Selanne, T. (Andrew Ebbett)
DAL:  Ribeiro, M. (Steve Ott, Darryl Sydor), Niskanen, M. (Mike Ribeiro, Stephane Robidas), Ribeiro, M. (Steve Ott, Jere Lehtinen)
Attendance: 18,171

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	San Jose	0	2	0	2	48	B. Boucher
	Montreal	3	0	0	3	21	J. Halak
Scoring Summary:
SJS:  Pavelski, J. (Milan Michalek, Dan Boyle), Thornton, J. (Patrick Marleau, Christian Ehrhoff)
MTL:  Markov, A. (Tomas Plekanec, Mathieu Schneider), Gorges, J. (Matt D’Agostini, Saku Koivu), Koivu, S. (Andrei Markov)
Attendance: 21,273

FINAL OT		1	2	3	OT	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Toronto	2	0	1	1	4	38	C. Joseph
	Ottawa	0	2	1	0	3	32	B. Elliot
Scoring Summary:
TOR:  Mayers, J. (John Mitchell, Tomas Kaberle), Stapleton, T. (Jason Blake, Dominic Moore), Kubina, P. (Nik Antropov, Mikhail Grabovski), Kubina, P. (Ian White, Matt Stajan)
OTT:  Shannon, R. (Jason Spezza, Dany Heatley), Ruutu, J. (Mike Comrie, Shean Donovan), Alfredsson, D. (Mike Fisher)
Attendance: 20,050

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Buffalo	0	0	0	0	31	P. Lalime
	NY Islanders	0	1	1	2	34	Y. Danis
Scoring Summary:
NYI:  Bergenheim, S. (06:13 in 2nd), Bergenheim, S. (17:58 in 3rd)
Attendance: 14,198

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Colorado	0	1	0	1	24	A. Raycroft
	NY Rangers	4	1	1	6	30	H. Lundqvist
Scoring Summary:
COL:  Smyth, R. (Milan Hejduk, John-Michael Liles)
NYR:  Callahan, R. (Brandon Dubinsky, Chris Drury), Zherdev, N. (Lauri Korpikoski), Prucha, P. (Lauri Korpikoski, Paul Mara), Gomez, S. (Marc Staal, Nikolai Zherdev), Drury, C. (Scott Gomez, Markus Naslund), Naslund, M. (Scott Gomez, Dmitri Kalinin)
Attendance: 18,200

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Carolina	2	0	1	3	35	C. Ward
	Atlanta	0	1	4	5	32	K/ Lehtonen
Scoring Summary:
CAR:  Ruutu, T. (Eric Staal), Samsonov, S. (Jussi Jokinen, Patrick Eaves), Babchuk, A. (Tuomo Ruutu, Eric Staal)
ATL:  Kovalchuk, I. (Todd White), Peverley, R. (Marty Reasoner, Ilya Kovalchuk), White, T. ((Ilya Kovalchuk, Bryan Little), Peverley, R. (Ilya Kovalchuk, Slava Kozlov), Kovalchuk, I. (Ron Hainsey)
Attendance: 17,796

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Detroit	0	0	0	0	30	T. Conklin, C. Osgood
	Nashville	5	1	2	8	23	P. Rinne
Scoring Summary:
NSH:  Koistinen, V. (Shea Weber, Cal O’reilly), Legwand, D. (Jerred Smithson, Joel Ward), Ward, J. (unassisted), Pihlstrom, A. (Jordin Tootoo, Kevin Klein), Arnott, J. (Ville Koistinen, Ryan Jones), Arnott, J. (Steve Sullivan, J.P. Dumont), Weber, S. (Steve Sullivan, J.P. Dumont), Arnott, J. (J.P. Dumont, Steve Sullivan)
Attendance: 17,113

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	St. louis	0	1	2	3	30	C. Mason
	Phoenix	0	0	1	1	27	I. Bryzgalov
Scoring Summary:
STL:  McClement, J. (Alexander Steen), Perron, D. (David Backes, Patrik Berglund), McDonald, A. (Keith Tkachuk, Brad Boyes)
PHX:  Jokinen, O. (Keith Yandle, Peter Mueller)
Attendance: 15,893

FINAL		1	2	3	T	SOG	GOALIES
	Minnesota	2	0	0	2	45	J. Harding
	Edmonton	1	2	0	3	30	D. Roloson
Scoring Summary:
MIN:  Brunette, A. (PPG, 06:14 in 1st), Miettinen, A. (PPG, 19:25 in 1st)
EDM:  Hemsky, A. (12:47 in 1st), Stortini, Z. (05:03 in 2nd), Gilbert, T. (15:22 in 2nd)
Attendance: 16,839