On this past Saturday’s Illegal Curve Hockey Show, Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province came on the show to discuss the latest on the Vancouver Canucks.

On the Cody Hodgson trade for Zack Kassian

“I think everyone got what they wanted, Cody Hodgson was in a pretty awkward situation here, he’s the third line centre, and he’s playing behind an Art Ross Trophy (Henrik Sedin) winner and a Selke Trophy winner (Ryan Kesler), he’s going to play ten to twelve minutes per night, he’s on the second power play unit, but he has sixteen goals. What do you do with the guy? He’s a natural centre, you can’t really play him on the wall (wing).”

On Hodgson’s relationship with Coach Alain Vingeault

“It was an uneasy relationship with the coach, if you go back to the ‘09 training camp, Cody Hodgson had a back injury, he had one point through six or seven preseason games, he had a lot of back pain, a lot of sciatica nerve, he couldn’t push off, couldn’t play very well. The coach framed it publicly at the time that Cody was using the injury as an excuse for a poor training camp. I don’t know about you, but if a coach said that about me, as much as you may try to put it in some perspective, I’m sure that was always simmering on the back burner.”

On David Booth’s ability to drive the net

“Corey Schneider has a great quote the other day, “we didn’t have that in the playoffs last year, we didn’t have a guy who could come off the wall and go hard to the net and finish.” By finish, that’s either shooting or scoring on your initial shot. A lot of David Booth’s goals are on rebounds he’s diving, he’s flopping and banging home rebounds. If you think about today’s NHL that’s how a lot of goals are scored, I think there’s a real attractiveness about David there.”

On the acquisition of Marc-Andre Gragnani

“He was on the second power play unit the other night against St. Louis, he gives them a nice option of a guy he’s 24, and he’s been around for a bit. He skates well, he moves the puck well. The Canucks have to realize they better have another option back there. Their big weapon on defense is Sami Salo on one of their power play alignments. Outside of Zdeno Chara he may shoot the puck as hard as anybody in the league. You always worry about a guy who’s getting on in age, and injury problems and the fact that you’re going to lose guys in the postseason. The interesting thing about Gragnani is that he gives them another option as another guy who can move the puck.”

On potential first round match-ups

“I don’t think they are salivating about any match-up, there are six or seven teams in this conference that are going to cause anybody grief. From what I have seen recently, in Phoenix, Dallas or St. Louis, it’s already playoff hockey, you’re basically playing the trap, waiting for one turnover, and all these low scoring games. The Canucks can play those kind  of games and it’s good that they can, because you’re going to see it in the postseason. We’re already getting a taste in March what it’s going to be like in April, May and maybe into June. To the Canucks credit they are tailor to play that kind of game. I’m a little concerned about their offense right now. Coming out of the conference it’s one land mine after another, the reason they made those moves at the deadline is they might lose a body or two along they way and you better have some depth.”

On the Canucks defensive depth

“That’s where it really falls off in a hurry here, you have Hamhuis and Bieksa as their shutdown pairing, and then Edler regularly pairs with Salo. The nice thing about Edler is that he’s really getting his physical game back, he’s throwing some devastating hits out there and he’s got a pretty good shot. But after that, Ballard’s out right now with a concussion. If Salo were to go down…Keith Ballard’s getting paid like a top four guy, but he’s not playing like a top four guy. That’s where they run into a problem. That’s where you wonder, guys like Aaron Rome, they are third paring guys. When they’ve had injury problems here they’ve paired (Aaron) Rome with (Andrew) Alberts on the third pairing and they’ve struggled. That’s why they called (Chris) Tanev up because they think the kid who’s only 22 can play. He’s challenged physically, but he’s extremely smart in moving the puck. The problem is if Salo goes down, can Ballard handle that load, that’s what we’re going to find out in the playoffs.”

The entire interview is available here at Illegal Curve, or subscribe to the podcast on iTunes.

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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Kesler now has 16 points in 16 games and leads all American players in the NHL.

It was just two training camps ago when he talked about taking a bigger leadership role. He’s done that, and can now dictate how the Canucks play.

“I think everybody in this locker room wants to go on the ice and wants to be a game changer,” Kesler said.

“Every time I step on the ice, that’s the only thing on my mind. A couple of seasons ago it was defence, defence, defence. Now, I’m trying to push that offence really hard.”

It was only last season that Ryan Kesler agreed with his teammate Alexandre Burrows that certain Canucks players would have to take less to keep the current core of the team together.  While I know Kesler somewhat backed off those comments, we will see how honest he was really being when the time comes this upcoming summer.  That is because Kesler is an RFA after this season and is only making $1.75 million in 2009/10.  With Willie Mitchell the only really other significant free agent next summer, the Canucks almost have $41 million already tied up for 2010/2011.  Clearly the team will do what it can to keep Kesler but the days of him taking less have probably passed by.  The rugged American center leads the team in scoring, and has improved in the points-per-game department in each of his six NHL seasons. 

The question is: How much is Kesler going to get paid?  The player that most comes to mind as a comparable for me is R.J. Umberger.  Both players are big American centers that are able to play a two-way game and are very physical in the process.  Over his career, Umberger has posted 171 points in 323 games; whereas, Kesler has posted 153 points in 335 games.  So, Umberger has a points-per-game of .529, while Kesler has a points-per-game of .456.  Taking into account the fact that Umberger signed his contract last summer, he was the same age that Kesler will be this summer.  Umberger currently makes $3.75 million (cap hit) per season on a four-year deal.  Something tells me that Kesler’s agent will be shooting for $4.00 million this summer.

Taking less sounds good when you say it, but not when you have a chance to sign that big contract.  Time will tell, but something tells me there is no way Kesler takes less.  And you know what, who can blame him?

New York Rangers at New Jersey Devils

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

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

Columbus Blue Jackets at Vancouver Canucks

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

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

Forwards:

Is Sergei Shirokov Vancouver's secret weapon?

Though the Canucks were not one of the highest scoring teams in the league last year, their surprising offensive output was one of the reasons for their success. They averaged 3 goals/game, 5th in the Western Conference. The Canucks are led offensively by Daniel and Henrik Sedin. Both were re-signed shortly before becoming free agents. Daniel led the team in goals with 31, and Henrik led the team in assists with 60. Both players amassed exactly 82 points in 82 games.

Daniel and Henrik have been incredibly durable over their careers. Daniel has missed 14 games in 8 seasons while Henrik has missed only 8 games in 8 seasons. At 29, it is unlikely to expect an increase in production from the twins, but they are certainly capable of being point-per-game players this year.

It has yet to be determined who will line up alongside the twins. Reports earlier out of Vancouver training camp had Samuelsson as the early favorite. The former Red Wing has never eclipsed 45 points in a season but could easily see new career highs if he plays with Daniel and Henrik. He brings grit, size, skating ability and a solid shot.  Recent reports, however, have Samuelsson playing on a line with Ryan Kesler and Sergei Shirokov.

Alex Burrows is an excellent two-way forward who broke out offensively last season. Burrows significantly improved his career bests with 28 goals and 23 assists. If Burrows lines  up alongside the Sedins, he should  eclipse those totals. He was also a +23 and registered 150 penalty minutes. He is a hard-worker and an agitator and is major all-around contributor to the team.

Ryan Kesler is another Canuck that had a breakout season last year. The 25 year-old Kesler registered 26 goals and 33 assists last year. Though he struggled in the post-season, Kesler should rebound nicely and at least match last season’s offensive output. He should enter the season as Vancouver’s second-line centre.

Pavol Demitra can still be one of Vancouver’s offensive leaders, but durability is a concern. The oft-injured Demitra has missed at least eleven games in each of the last five years and will miss the first month of the season after undergoing major shoulder surgery.

After an impressive 39 game rookie campaign with the Sharks, Steve Bernier has been a disappointment. Bernier has failed to become a scoring threat for Vancouver despite spending time on a line with the Sedins. Another 24 year-old, Mason Raymond will be counted on to contribute more. Raymond will likely be paired on the second-line with Ryan Kesler.

Kyle Wellwood is the favorite to be Vancouver’s third-line centre. The much-maligned Wellwood is reportedly in much better shape this year and may have found a home in Vancouver. Competing with Wellwood is potential Calder candidate Cody Hodgson. Hodgson, the 2008 10th overall pick is a high-scoring forward. He will play centre or right wing if he makes the team. Hodgson may not begin the season with the team, however, as he has already been called out for his poor play by GM Mike Gillis.

Sergei Shirokov debuts with the Canucks after spending considerable time in various Russian leagues. Shirokov has potential to make a valuable offensive contribution. Face-off specialist Ryan Johnson, tough guys Rick Rypien, and Darcy Hortichuk, and Jannick Hansen will be competing for the final roster spots.

Defense:

The Canucks lost Mattias Ohlund to the Lightning in the off-season but signed Mathieu Schnieder and acquired Christian Erhoff, and Brad Lukowich. The 40 year-old Schnieder may not play every game and probably will not be ready to start the season. Schnieder’s most valuable contribution comes as a quarterback on the power play. Newly acquired Christian Erhoff will probably also play a role on the power play. Erhoff recorded 25 of his 42 points with the man-advantage. At most, Brad Lukowich will be relied on as Vancouver’s seventh defenseman.

Alex Edler looks to improve on an impressive 2008-2009 campaign

Kevin Bieksa is the Canucks #1 defenseman. He will not spend as much time on the power play this year, but logged almost 25 minutes of ice-time en route to a 43-point campaign. Alexander Edler had a career best 37 points and was a pleasant surprise for the Canucks. Edler is only 23 and could become one of the NHL’s better offensive defensemen.

Though Willie Mitchell set a career high in points last year, his role is firmly entrenched as Vancouver’s top shutdown defenseman. Like Mitchell, Shane O’Brien is a stay-at-home defenseman. He will probably play only in Mathieu Schnieder’s absence.

The oft-injured Sami Salo is back for another season on the Canucks blue-line. Salo has the potential to be an above average offensive defenseman, but injuries and reduced power play time this year could leave Salo vulnerable to a career low (with Vancouver) in points.

Goaltending:

What can you say about Roberto Luongo? The 30 year-old continues to put up stellar numbers. Last season he was 33-13 with a GAA of 2.34. Luongo missed time due to injury last year, but has been relatively durable over his career. Luongo is one of the top goaltenders in the league, and the Canucks’ success will be dependent on their captain.

Win or lose, it's Roberto Luongo's team

Andrew Raycroft will be counted on to back up Luongo. Raycroft has been shaky since an incredible 2003 with the Bruins. Cory Schneider is clearly the Canucks goaltender of the (distant) future and should Luongo get injured, it is Schneider that will likely play a majority of the games.

Prediction:

Ceiling – The Canucks are one of the favorites for the Northeast Division. They could easily win the division as long as their key components stay healthy. 1st in division 3rd in conference.

Floor – An injury to Roberto Luongo or a prolonged offensive slump could put this team on the playoff bubble in a competitive Western Conference. 4th in division, 10th in conference.

• 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.

First off, I’m thankful that something hockey–not law–related was actually at the forefront of all hockey webpages around the world.  For the first time in a while, an NHL story can actually be analyzed for its on-ice merits. 

With that said, let’s analyze the Canucks’ recent acquisitions.  Before analyzing each player, let’s set forth their respective contracts. (The figures are courtesy of NHLnumbers.com)

Mathieu Schneider: 1 year on his contract at $1.55 million.

Christian Ehrhoff: 2 years remaining on his contract;  2009/10–$3.15 and 2010/2011–$3.4.

Brad Lukowich: 1 year remaining on his contract at $1.8 million.

It certainly says something about the current free agent market when Brad Lukowich is actually going to make more money than Mathieu Schneider.  That aside, the three acquistions didn’t really cost the Canucks much–aside from money cap room and two lower-tier prospects.

In Schneider, the Canucks get a player who has obviously seen his best days; however, that does not mean that Schneider cannot be a helpful player on the Canucks’ back-end.  Schneider brings tremendous puck-moving skills, specifically an ability to effectively quarterback the power play.  In 23 games with Montreal last season, the veteran American blueliner tallied an impressive 17 points (14 of which were on the power play).  Additionally, he logged over 20 minutes of action per night. 

While he doesn’t possess the defensive ability he once did–nor the mobility–his smarts, along with the number of Canucks’ defensemen ahead of him on the depth chart (Mitchell, Bieksa, Edler) who can eat up the tough minutes against the opposition’s more talented and challenging offensive players, makes this a very astute signing.

In Ehrhoff, the Canucks have added a two-way defenseman who possesses solid offensive skills and sometimes questionable defensive skills.  His 42 points in 77 games was an impressive total for the 27 year old defenseman.  Unfortunately, Ehrhoff was -12 for the Sharks last season, which was 15 +/- points lower than the next worst Sharks defenseman (Alexei Semenov +3).  So while his offense took a step forward last season, his defense took a step back.  In Vancouver he’ll be counted on to help the team’s speed and size on the back-end, but if he continues to struggle in his own zone, his playing time will be limited to less time than he saw in San Jose.  If that is the case, he’ll prove to be overpaid.

As for Lukowich, the Canucks are getting a smooth skating veteran defenseman who knows his role and can adequately fill in if need be.  On the Canucks, Lukowich figures to slot in behind Salo, Bieksa, Edler, Schneider, Mitchell and Ehrhoff on the depth chart.  Additionally, the team has Aaron Rowe and Shane O’Brien on the back-end, so Lukowich should see himself as the 7th/8th defenseman on the team.  Luckily, the 33 year old B.C. native is a profesional player and should be a solid addition to the locker room.  His skating is his biggest asset and his defensive awareness is solid, but he won’t be counted on by the Canucks who boast a deep defense corps.

All in all, the Canucks have done well to shore up the team’s defensive depth.  Clearly GM Mike Gillis figured he could not count on Sami Salo to play a whole season and saw the opportunity to create team competition for defensive playing time, as well as an ability to get younger (Ehrhoff) and more skilled (Ehrhoff and Schneider) on the back-end.  Obviously helping the team’s middle-of-the-road power play (17th in the NHL) was a factor too.

Give Gillis a thumbs-up for these moves; however, something tells me the move for Schneider will be more significant than the move for Ehrhoff and Lukowich.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Bruins attempt to finish the rally tonight.  Net worth in game 7 as goalie‘s are key factors to winning the series.  Claude Julien reiterated yesterday that Marc Savard will be able to play in Game 7 tonight.  As last night’s Illegal Curve Radio show guest and Boston Herald Bruins beat writer Stephen Harris said, when Savard, during Game 6,  came onto the ice to test whatever was ailing him, he didn’t last long.  Stephen then writes about the unique perspective that Andrew Ferrance has to view the B’s erratic performance.
• Are the Canes loaded for bear because they’ve got a big bad Bruin in their sights and if they don’t step it up they are in for a mauling.  Canes coach Paul Maurice said there could be an adjustment on defense and with the lines for Game 7 against the Bruins.  Carolina Hurricanes’ captain Rod Brind’Amour, then (2006) and now, didn’t have to say much to make his impact felt, but when he thought something had to be said, he said it.

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Tarik El-Bashir discusses how the Capitals’ Nemesis took control quickly and closed an otherwise thrilling series with an easy win.  In the end, Crosby was the better player opines Mike Wise.  After last night’s loss, the Caps have nothing but praise for Simeon Varlamov.  What some of the Caps players did to keep their minds off game 7.
• Game 7s, like the one the Penguins and Washington played last night to determine the winner of their second-round playoff series, are always special.  Game 7, the drama, became a comedy or a tragedy depending on your rooting interest with Sidney Crosby as the hero.  The Pens never stopped believing, not after they fell behind two games to none and not after they were beaten at home in Game 6, a 5-4 Capitals victory that necessitated Wednesday night’s Game 7.  With a swipe of his glove, goalie Marc-Andre Fleury sent a message to everyone who doubted his abilities.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• A little nastiness to end Game 6, now Game 7 to decide which team keeps its Stanley Cup dreams alive and which one’s season ends abruptly.  What more can you ask for?  The Wings’ response should be to do what they do, which is show poise and experience and skate the feathers off the Duckies.  As I’ve been saying for quite some time, after an MVP-quality regular season, Pavel Datsyuk has slumped at a bad, bad time for the Red Wings.  Detroit’s most dependable distraction, Tomas Holmstrom, is suddenly nowhere to be found.  There isn’t much to hate about Hiller, except this: he is quite capable of standing on his head (figuratively), winning this series (literally) and ripping the Wings’ hearts out.
• To defeat the Red Wings, Ducks will need to outsmart them, and not rely on passion alone.  Could this be the Ducks’ most impressive playoff series victory. Ever.  The Ducks prepare for game 7 and all that entails.

Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• All the Blackhawks and their fans can do is sit back and watch as the other Western Conference semifinal series plays out to determine who the team will face in the conference finals and then try and figure who they’d rather face.  What do the Blackhawks do with all those hats thrown on the United Center ice?  Chicago Blackhawks’ Patrick Kane now understands Denis Savard firing.  GM Dale Tallon talks hockey, golf, pressure.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Predators General Manager David Poile came away from a recent meeting with Alexander Radulov believing the talented Russian forward does want to return to the NHL.
• Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke appeared on Toronto radio station AM 640 on Wednesday afternoon to dismiss rumours he was looking to move up in the NHL Entry Draft by making a deal with the Tampa Bay Lightning.  A serious error has been committed by Sports Illustrated in judging the Maple Leafs ownership to be the worst in the NHL.
• The Monreal Canadiens have signed defencemen P.K. Subban and Andre Benoit, GM Bob Gainey announced on Wednesday.
• They packed their bags, shook hands, and for some Vancouver Canucks, walked out of the dressing room for the last time yesterday.
• Of all of the coaches in Calgary Flames organization — at the National Hockey League level, at the American Hockey League level — only Mike Keenan has another year remaining on his contract.  Yet it’s his future, above all others’, that seems most uncertain.
• While the Avalanche remains without a general manager and intrigue surrounds its head coaching position, the team did manage to sign a couple of top prospects Wednesday to pro contracts.
• Comcast Corp. has no plans to sell its majority ownership stakes in the Sixers and Flyers because of the weak economy.
• The Atlanta Spirit were named one of the five worst owners in the NHL in a recent ranking by Sports Illustrated’s Web site.
• The Sharks are paying the price for their first-round playoff exit. The team, in a packet to season-ticket holders that included a letter from CEO Greg Jamison calling the loss “disappointing and embarrassing,” announced that season-ticket prices will remain the same for 2009-10.
• As soon as Willie Desjardins told his wife, Rhonda, he’d been chosen head coach of Canada’s next junior team, her reply was: “‘Well, we’ll have to win six.”
• India’s women’s field hockey team have cancelled their tour of Canada this month because of fears over the H1N1 influenza outbreak.

The Phoenix situation:

• Hamilton council approves Balsillie lease option for Copps Coliseum.
• Coyotes can’t be sold to Balsillie, Arizona city says.
• The provincial government is doing the old spinarama when it comes to financial help for BlackBerry billionaire Jim Balsillie’s bid to bring the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes to Hamilton.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• The Bruins performance last night allows for fans to see one of the great events in sports, a seventh game at the Boston Garden.  Marc Savard left yesterday’s game as a precautionary measure, but is expected to suit up for Game 7.  Mark Recchi’s leadership and clutch play are making Peter Chiarelli look good.  Meanwhile, Patrice Bergeron really came to play on Tuesday.  Boston was a motivated group last night.  So much for Carolina’s home-ice advantage.
• “I believe in this hockey team, I really do,” said Paul Maurice after his team’s home loss last night.  With the series heading back to Boston, the Hurricanes are once again the underdogs.  Boston was winning the one-on-one puck battles on Thursday.

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Tonight’s game is only the tenth Game 7 ever hosted by the city of Washington.  If Capitals want to win this Game 7, then they will have to stay out of the penalty box.  Combine staying out of the box with solid secondary scoring, and Washington should be in business.  Winning tonight would conquer a lot of Pittsburgh demons for Capitals fans.
• Pittsburgh fans are unhappy with the play of Marc-Andre Fleury.  Game 7 is Fleury’s time to prove just how good he is, writes Joe Starkey.  Sergei Gonchar could possibly be in the lineup tonight against the Capitals.  Experience could be a big benefit for the Penguins tonight.  Off the ice, the Penguins have done a tremendous job marketing their product.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• The Wings are going to need Pavel Datsyuk to step up on offense if they want to win Game 7 tomorrow night.  Speaking of Datsyuk, Jonas Hiller turned aside his shot late in regulation, along with 37 others, as he kept the Ducks in yesterday’s game to force Game 7.  Detroit had a slow first period and it took them a while to get going, opines Bob Wojnowski.  Meantime, Niklas Kronwall reflects back on just how valuable his time in the AHL was to his current development.
• A healthy Ryan Getzlaf helped turn his team around yesterday, explains Helene Elliot of the L.A. Times.  Anaheim is doing a good job of keeping Pavel Datsyuk in check, writes Lisa Dillman.  Here is a description of the game play-by-play.  Will the Wings now feel the pressure by hosting Game 7 at home against an eight seed?

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• What’s next for the Vancouver Canucks?  Cam Cole isn’t sure that spending $8 million on a starting goaltender is the right way to do business in the salary cap era.
• Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune wonders if he can change his prediction that the Canucks would win the Round 2 series against Chicago?  Patrick Kane is the real deal and many Chicagoans are finding that out one game at a time.  Tim Sassone says he doesn’t buy the talk that the Hawks don’t care who they face in Round 3.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch profiles Ohio State product and Washington Capitals center David Steckel.
• Apparently the Wild want to arrange for second interviews before naming the team’s new GM, but is has become difficult to schedule these interviews with a number of the candidates still involved in the playoffs.
• Johnny Oduya is that good, just ask his agent.
• Tampa Bay players better be ready for training camp, says coach Rick Tocchet.
• Brian Burke has shot down an absurd rumor about what he may possibly give up to move into the number two overall slot in the draft.
• Eric Duhatschek wonders if Canadian teams are going to win the Cup anytime soon?

The Phoenix situation:

• Wayne Gretzky is backing Jerry Reinsdorf’s bid to purchase the Coyotes.
• The Coyotes are asking to see what the possible terms were for a sale to Jerry Reinsdorf.
• Apparently the NHL wants to keep this deal quiet because it is not a high offer.
• Also, if you are in the Phoenix area, the Coyotes’ rally has been relocated.
• Apparently Jim Balsillie will want taxpayers to pitch in for the Copps Coliseum renovations.
• Want more information on the Coyotes situation?  Stephen Brunt of the Globe & Mail has a chat about it later today.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Aaron Ward is questionable for tonight’s game.  The Bruins are hoping that Blake Wheeler can learn a lot from watching the game up in the press box.  If the Bruins want to win, they will need another monster game from Zdeno Chara.  The Hurricanes haven’t been in this situation this playoffs but know how important it is to close the door at home.  The in Carolina hasn’t been very good this series.
• Carolina need to take care of business tonight.  If you didn’t read yesterday, Scott Walker was fined but not suspended.  Will Walker’s punch unnecessarily motivate the Bruins?

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• “He’s a big-game guy,” said Bruce Boudreau about Capitals checking line center David Steckel.  Steckel wouldn’t have had the ability to score the overtime winner, had it not been for Viktor Kozlov’s two big goals.  FSN Pittsburgh recorded the best rating ever for a FSN regional hockey broadcast.  It’s a shame this series has to only go seven games.
• Game 7 should be a classic.  Why are the Penguins being so secretive about Sergei Gonchar’s injury?  The Penguins have been very happy with the play of Hal Gill and Rob Scuderi against Alexander Ovechkin.  Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin have been as good as advertised.  The Game 7 ending is going to be fitting, writes Mike Prisuta.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• Drew Sharp says that the Wings have been physically intimidating the Ducks.  Henrik Zetterberg has turned up his game lately.  Zetterberg’s been good, but he’s no Mule.  Brian Rafalski will be a game-time decision for tonight’s tilt.
• The Wings’ depth is one of the big advantages they have over the Ducks.  This Wings team is built to go on a Cup run.  Which Ducks team will show up tonight?  Anaheim does have a lot of players who have never experienced playoff intensity like this before.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• Roberto Luongo took the blame last night and placed it squarely on his own shoulders.  The Blackhawks were better than the Canucks in all the important categories.  The Hawks’ speed and youthful exuberance seemed to intimidate the Canucks.  Daniel Sedin says the better team won.
• Patrick Kane took over the United Center last night.  Apparently Kane was fired up by some comments made by Willie Mitchell.  What a night, writes Dan McGrath.  Canucks coach Alain Vigneault says he has a lot of respect for the Blackhawks’ defense.  Meanwhile, Tim Sassone recaps what was a memorable night at the United Center.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• What the heck is going on in Colorado?
• The NHL is hiding its game by putting it on Versus, writes Bob Hunter of the Columbus Dispatch.
• Mike Modano is returning to the Stars next season.
• Philadelphia should forget about signing Ray Emery, writes Ed Moran.
• The Lighning have made Rick Tocchet the team’s official head coach.  The team also had an open forum yesterday.
• Jonas Gustavsson is currently with his ailing mother, so Brian Burke and the Leafs have decided to give the young man some space.

The Coyotes situation:

• The city of Phoenix is holding a rally to save the Coyotes.
• Are the Stars going to follow the Coyotes and also file for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?
• Apparently Hamilton is close to an arena deal.
• What do Canadians think about Balisillie’s bid?
• Some legal experts expect Balsillie to lose his court battle.
• Even if he loses, Balsillie has set the wheels in motion for another team in Southern Ontario, writes Stephen Brunt.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• “I don’t know that they keep time of possession stats, but if they do, you’ll definitely see a major difference between tonight’s game and the previous three games,” said Bruins netminder Tim Thomas after the Bruins’ impressive 4-0 home victory.  Boston gave its fans what they deserved last night, writes Bob Ryan.  Game 5 looked a lot more like Game 1 than any of the games in between, opines Kevin Paul Dupont.  It didn’t hurt that Zdeno Chara was back to his dominant ways yesterday.  The momentum was already in Boston’s favour, but the massive hit by Milan Lucic on Dennis Seidenberg got the crowd into the game.  The Bruins were mad about a couple cheap shots yesterday.  (Writer’s note: I am not one to defend cheap shots but c’mon here.  Jokinen didn’t exactly two-hand Chara hard.  I mean, the guy is like 6’7 and 260 pounds, a tap like that isn’t going to injure him.  Secondly, Aaron Ward was going after Matt Cullen (who has a bad concussion history) and Scott Walker, one of the more well respected players in the league, stuck up for his player.  Ward, the veteran defenseman that he is, has to be ready to defend himself.  What did he think Walker was going to do?  You go after a player with concussion issues, you are going to have to defend yourself and Ward isn’t exactly a soft player.  It is unfortunate that Ward may have a broken orbital bone, but I didn’t think it was a “sucker punch.”)
• “I think we got sucked into their style of game,” said Hurricanes netminder Cam Ward.  Carolina should not have been surprised with Boston’s performance Sunday night at the Garden.  Claude Julien and Paul Maurice both have their opinions on the alleged cheap shots.

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• “And we have to believe that it’s capable of being done, and it is capable of being done,” said coach Bruce Boudreau about coming back against the Penguins.  The Capitals head into tonight’s game confident that their play in must-win games has been very strong.  Who as we kidding? The rivalry between these two teams is personal.  Has Mike Green played himself off the Canadian Olympic team?
• “I don’t think there’s going to be a letdown. We know we’re going to face a team that’s good, that’s dangerous and that’s going to be giving everything they’ve got,” said Penguins coach Dan Bylsma.  The Penguins’ defense has done a great job of blocking shots in front of Marc-Andre Fleury.  Miroslav Satan has come back from the AHL and played very well in this second round series.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• Last night’s scoreboard was closer than the play on the ice, writes Steve Schrader.  Johan Franzen’s scoring in the playoffs has been astounding.  The Wings are now playing this series the way the wanted to all along.  “Depth can wear on you over a seven-game series,” said Dan Cleary.
• “We’ll fly home. We’ll re-energize, re-focus. We’ll visit on the things that we have to do and emotionally try to charge ourselves. We weren’t emotionally involved enough on a consistent basis,” said coach Randy Carlyle.  Bobby Ryan wants his team to finish more checks.  Was it the flu that was the reason for Ryan Getzlaf’s post-season point streak ending at eight games?  “We had no business out there. They were better in every area and there’s no excuse,” said Teemu Selanne.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• If the Canucks are going to comeback from down 3-2, they are going to need their veterans to step up.  Willie Mitchell does have experience mounting comebacks.  “Yes, there will,” said Alex Burrows when asked if there is going to be a Game 7 in this series.  Down on the farm, Cody Hodgson has been assigned to the Manitoba Moose.
• The Blackhawks realize they are one win away from playing in the Western Conference Finals.  Even though they are one win away, Chicago knows Vancouver is going to bring its best game on Monday.  Brian Campbell’s play this playoffs has made critics forget his play during last season’s playoffs.

Teams that are not in the playoffs:

• There will be a Town Hall Meeting for Lightning fans today in Tampa.
• With his play in the World Championships, did Jason Spezza move his way into consideration for Canada’s 2010 Olympic Team?

The Coyotes situation:

• Does the NHL need to keep the Coyotes in Phoenix because of the market size?
• Did the NHL start running the Coyotes in return for cash?
• Hamilton continues to focus solely on working with Jim Balsillie.
• Apparently a deal between Hamilton and Balsillie could be completed as early as this week.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

•  A tremendous Bruins season has come down to the need to win three straight games, writes Fluto Shinzawa.  Bob Ryan is wondering where Jussi Jokinen has come from?  “Our team has picked the worst time of year to play their worst hockey,” said coach Claude Julien.  Meantime, Blake Wheeler continued to struggle yesterday.  The pressure is on Zdeno Chara to step up his game.
• The Hurricanes are not getting ahead of themselves even though they are only one game away from the Conference Finals.  For all the talk before the series about Zdeno Chara shutting down Eric Staal, Staal is proving that certainly is not the case.  Jussi Jokinen has been playing so well the crowd has been chanting his name.

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• The confidence the Capitals had coming into Pittsburgh is now gone, as they head back to Washington for tonight’s Game 5 all tied at two.  Simeon Varlamov picked a bad time to have his worst game of the playoffs.  Where has Alexander Semin been?
• Pittsburgh made it an even series with a 5-3 home victory over the Capitals on Friday.  The Penguins were not happy with Alexander Ovechkin’s hit/knee of Sergei Gonchar.  In terms of Gonchar’s playing status for tonight, while it is up in the air, it looks likely that he won’t play.  At least both sides agree the ice during this series has been terrible.  In other news, Sidney Crosby commented on the Alexander Ovechkin threat.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• The Wings returned to Motown brimming with confidence, writes Helene St. James.  They may be confident, but they’ll have to play Game 5 without Tomas Kopecky.  Both Kris Draper and Brian Rafalski will miss Game 5.  Good thing Marian Hossa is playing his best hockey of the season at just the right time.
• How will Randy Carlyle react to Mike Babcock’s changes in Game 5?  The Ducks are happy there are two days off between games.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• If the Canucks want to win Game 5, they will need to get more shots on Nikolai Khabibulin.  Don’t worry Canucks fans, Kevin Bieksa is going to play in Game 5.  Here is some bulletin board material the Canucks can use.  If Vancouver wants to win this series, their best forwards need to step up.
• “Now we’re going there tied and with a confidence boost. We can get in there and get at them right away,” said Hawks center Dave Bolland.  Andrew Ladd has been clutch for Chicago.  Hawks fans should not expect the Canucks to sit back again in Game 5.

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Coach Claude Julien gave his players the day off with the hope that time away from the rink will help shake the Bruins from their two-game slide, writes Fluto Shinzawa.  Game 3 was a bad deal from the start, as evidenced by Bob Ryan’s notes and he feels that fate is swaying Carolina’s way.  Marc Savard takes responsibility for his penalty on Cam Ward after reviewing the video.
• Two players who were deemed expendable on other teams played a large part in helping the Canes defeat the Boston Bruins in Game 3.  It wasn’t just fans who erupted in celebration when the Canes made the 2nd round, so did bar owners, hotel managers, store clerks — even high school band parents.  On a lighter note, it appears some people don’t love the music being played during the Canes games.

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• The relationship between Caps coach Bruce Boudreau and Pens coach Dan Bylsma dates back more than 15 years.  While Gary Bettman is distracted in Phoenix, Washington Capitals General Manager George McPhee voiced his displeasure with the officiating in his team’s second-round series with the Pittsburgh Penguins.  Dan Steinberg tells us that for their first 33 years of existence, the Washington Capitals never played two playoff games in consecutive nights in different cities. Credit the organization as a whole for putting the team in position to get the most out of its success.
• Max Talbot knows his role on the team. That’s one of the reasons the Pens have been successful. Pens fans wonder if Gonchar needs to be on the power play since it appears he’s lost a step.  The teenager who was questioned in connection with the death threat against Ovechkin has not been charged.  Penguins defenseman Kris Letang follows a ritual before every game, he showers, then stretches, then sits alone in silence inspired by the memory of his friend.  Both the Capitals and Penguins were not exactly ecstatic to hear they were playing back-to-back games in Round 2.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• The Red Wings earned the result they wanted, even if it started off on the wrong note, writes Ted Kulfan.  However, this time there were no controversies or premature stoppages of play, as Marian Hossa finally lived up to his reputation.  The entire Wings team contributed to yesteday’s victory although what was probably most encouraging to Wings fans was the play of the team’s stars.  Don’t expect the highly coveted Jim Nill to end up taking any of the current GM openings around the NHL.
• “Our team didn’t play very well,” said Ducks coach Randy Carlyle after yesterday’s loss to Detroit.  James Wisniewski was seething over being elbowed in the head by Tomas Holmstrom while he was reeling from the shot.  Helene Elliot’s questions for the Ducks now is whether they can silence the Detroit offense after it awoke with a roar on Thursday.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• The Vancouver Canucks lost a game, momentum and maybe a key defenceman Thursday night.  Iain MacIntyre laments on how the Canucks were within three minutes of building a 3-1 series lead against the Chicago Blackhawks.  If you don’t shoot, you can’t score.  Rose Dimanno thinks Mats Sundin is a good fit as a support scorer.  Dimanno also writes about the tragedy that Taylor Pyatt deals with everyday.
• The Blackhawks came to life at exactly the right time on Thursday.  “We had good chances all game and I thought we deserved to win tonight,” said Duncan Keith.  The emotional swings of the NHL playoffs are something else.

Teams that did not make the playoffs:

• Patrick Roy is in Denver today meeting with Pierre Lacroix.
• Pierre McGuire would be the Wild’s gain if they decide to hire him for their open GM spot, opines Bruce Dowbiggen.

The Coyotes situation:

• Who controlled the Coyotes and for how long?
• It won’t matter in a court of law, but Jim Balsillie has much support in the court of public opinion.
• The date to circle on your calendar is May 19, writes Craig Harris of the Arizona Republic.
• Dave Perkins says the owners aren’t going to welcome Balsillie to their club.
• “We were up against a time frame by the NHL that a decision had to be made, this was the only option,” said Jerry Moyes.
• Don’t underestimate Gary Bettman.
• Stephen Brunt of the Globe & Mail tries to figure out how Phoenix got to the point of bankruptcy.
• Here are the arguments of both sides.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• The Bruins are at their best when they are not looking for the perfect play.  “We would just throw pucks at the net. We weren’t patient with it. We didn’t hold onto it. That’s a big key to our game,” said veteran forward Mark Recchi.  That impatience also translated to poor special teams play, writes Steve Conroy.  Over on the other side, Ron Francis is still having a great effect on the Hurricanes organization.
• “I don’t think we have the kind of hockey team right now that thinks this season has been good enough,” said coach Paul Maurice about his Hurricanes squad.  The Bruins are beatable, but it won’t be easy, writes Luke Decock.  What are some ex-Whalers/Hurricanes doing these days? 

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• This matchup is somehow living up to all the hype, writes Tarik El-Bashir.  “Thus, in the series’ first two games — both won by Washington — unmatchable hype is being matched, because the two best players have four goals apiece and are delivering the kind of performances that forge true rivalries,” opines Barry Svrluga of the Washington Post.  “I think it’s great for our sport,” said Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau after yesterday’s contest.  Hockey historian Joe Pelletier tells us just how rare two hat tricks in the same playoff game has been.  Simeon Varlamov did a good job of holding onto the lead as well.  Tyler Sloan filled in on the back-end for the Capitals last night and did a solid job.
• Where have all the Penguins’ secondary scorers been?  Chris Kunitz doesn’t think his struggles are due to a lack of chemistry with Sidney Crosby.  If you think Sidney Crosby can’t score goals, you haven’t been watching these playoffs.  Simeon Varlamov is frustrating the Penguins with his solid play.  Are the Penguins running Varlamov?

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• Wings coach Mike Babcock isn’t concerned at all about Pavel Datsyuk’s point struggles so far this series.  Not surprisingly, the Wings did not have a hard skate on Monday.  Dave Dye of the Detroit News says the Wings need more secondary scoring.  With so many veterans on board, Detroit isn’t going to let the downer of Game 2 carryover into Game 3.  Speaking of veterans, both Brian Rafalski and Kris Draper have been ruled out for tonight’s game.
• The Ducks have complete confidence in the goaltending ability of Jonas Hiller.  Even if the veterans on both sides are tired, they won’t be telling the media anyhow, writes Dan Wood.  “Ryan Getzlaf is the best, I really believe that,” said teammate Teemu Selanne.  Meantime, Randy Carlyle wants a better performance from Bobby Ryan tonight.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• “We don’t want to trade chances with them,” said Canucks winger Alex Burrows.  Sami Salo won’t be dressing tonight for Vancouver.  Do not expect the Canucks to panic after one loss.  Big Dustin Byfuglien is having a huge impact on the series thus far, opines Eric Duhatschek.
• As Duhatschek pointed out, Byfuglien is doing his best to irritate Luongo.  Jonathan Toews has denied rumors that he has a shoulder injury.  The Canucks know they have to limit Chicago’s speed.

Teams that have been eliminated from the playoffs:

• Current televison color commentator and former NHL All-Star Danny Gare has been let go by the Blue Jackets organization.
• Darryl Sutter says he isn’t looking to change up the core of his team in Calgary.
• Markus Naslund was a class act that was never the same after the Todd Bertuzzi incident, writes Larry Brooks.
• Flyers GM Paul Holmgren has confirmed reports that he’s interested in signing Ray Emery.

Teams that did not make the playoffs:

• Short-time Sabres netminder Mikael Tellqvist has signed overseas.
• The top two candidates for the Wild GM post appear to be Pierre McGuire and Chuck Fletcher, explains Michael Russo.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Kevin Paul Dupont says the Bruins faced a far different Hurricanes team than they faced in Game 1.  Carolina was just the better team last night.  Even though they lost, the Bruins did catch a break at the end of the second period, although Tim Thomas thinks the NHL got the call right.  While people wondered whether that goal went in, Cam Ward didn’t let anything get close to the goal line for the Hurricnaes.  After leaving Boston and having trouble finding a home, former Bruin Sergei Samsonov looks comfortable in Carolina.  Meanwhile, Dan Shaughnessy tells us that Whalers fans still exist.
• Any pre-game obstacles that had existed for Carolina were overcome during Game 2, writes Chip Alexander.  “We haven’t had much luck against these guys going back to the regular season, and this is a big confidence booster,” said Hurricanes star Cam Ward.

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Over the past few months Simeon Varlamov hasn’t changed, but the circumstances around him sure have, explains Barry Svrluga.  George McPhee seems to have made the right decision by keeping his young assets at the deadline, including Varlamov.  Varlamov’s success has brought about a role reversal for Jose Theodore.  The Capitals need to put their nerves aside and come out with a good start in Game 2.  In other Capitals news, Matt Bradley has fit in great on the team’s third line.
• Evgeni Malkin says he will be better in Game 2.  With a veteran laden team, do not expect Pittsburgh to panic down 1-0 in the series.  The Penguins are actually taking a lot of good things from Game 1.  One of the aspects of their game they are looking to improve is the power play, writes Rob Rossi.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• After yesterday’s marathon affair, Drew Sharp of the Detroit Free Press tells Wings fans to expect more overtime in this series.  “We have to put that behind us and come out and be ready for the next game,” said Nicklas Lidstrom.  Detroit is hoping Ryan Getzlaf begins to tire in this series from playing too many minutes.  However, before worrying about Getzlaf tiring, they need their big guns to step up.
• For Jonas Hiller’s first marathon contest of his career, he definitely looked calm, cool and collected, writes Helene Elliot.  Randy Carlyle’s roster moves ended up paying dividends.  “The guy that made the play was really Rob Niedermayer driving the middle lane,” said coach Randy Carlyle about Todd Marchant’s overtime winning goal.  You think overtime is hard, try one of Carlyle’s long practices.

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• The Canucks believe they lost Game 2 because of poor breakdowns.  In injury news, Sami Salo didn’t travel with the team yesterday to Chicago.  Elliot Pap says the Canucks need at least one win in Chicago.  The Sedins have made themselves a lot of money since the playoffs began.  If the reports about Markus Naslund are true, will Vancouver retire his number?
• Chicago wants to carry the momentum of Game 2 onto home ice tomorow night.  Steve Rosenbloom says the Hawks know how to beat Roberto Luongo.  One thing is for certain, Chicago will continue to go to the net hard.

Teams that have been eliminated from the playoffs:

• Is Ray Emery going to sign with Philadelphia?  The link is broken on the Ottawa Citizen page but that’s the headline.

Teams that did not make the playoffs:

• The Denver Post’s Adrian Dater already crowns the Red Wings with the 2009 championship.  (Writer’s note: I remember Dater picking Anaheim for the Finals, and then came upon his blog entry from last night admitting such.)
• Damien Cox talks about the possibility of Pierre McGuire being hired by the Minnesota Wild.
• Chris Zelkovich says having a broadcaster stand between the benches has been a great move by NBC.

Eastern Conference

Boston Bruins (1) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• Kevin Paul Dupont predicts the Bruins win in six games.  Former Hurricanes defenseman Aaron Ward knows just how good some of the Carolina weapons are.  So far this season, Zdeno Chara has shutdown Eric Staal.  Here are the Canes that Bruins fans have to watch for.  Also, here are the five keys to winning for the Bruins.
• It is hard not to fall in love with the Hurricanes at playoff time, writes Luke Decock.  Decock also provides Carolina’s three keys to winning this series.  That said, there is no secret who the Canes will be relying on to win this series.  Here is a breakdown of the team’s four regular season matchups.  Finally, Decock says Boston in seven.

Washington Capitals (2) versus Pittsburgh Penguins (4)

• Corey Masisak of the Washington Times previews every aspect of this series.  (Writer’s note: He did the same on the IC Radio Show this week.  Click here to listen to the show, and fast-forward to the 30 minute mark to hear Corey.)  After dispatching the lowly Rangers attack, Simeon Varlamov’s task gets a lot more difficult.   Ryan O’Halloran thinks a quick start for Washington is imperative.  Check out this interesting profile on Capitals defenseman Mike Green.  Finally, there was even more rest for Ovechkin on Thursday.
• Crosby versus Ovechkin is going to be as good as people are making it out to be.  Since his return from injury, Sergei Gonchar has a been a steadying force on Pittsburgh’s back-end.  Gonchar’s countryman wants the Cup as bad as anyone.  This series is going to have so much intensity, it will be a fan’s dream.

Western Conference

Detroit Red Wings (2) versus Anaheim Ducks (8)

• The Wings are hoping they get to Jonas Hiller just like they did Steve Mason.  Mike Babcock isn’t pulling any punches, as he wants all penalties called this series.  Helene St. James breaks down the series position by position.  What is Kris Draper’s injury status? Here are predictions for the series from the Detroit Free Press staff.
• Not surprisingly, Ducks coach Randy Carlyle wants his team to cutdown on its penalties coming into Detroit.  Speaking of Carlyle, there is a clear mutual respect between him and Mike Babcock.  The Ducks are aware just how dangerous the Red Wings are.  Here is a recap of the season series between the two squads this season.  So, who is going to win?

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

• The Canucks pulled out a wild 5-3 win at GM Place on Thursday night.  Ed Willes cannot get over how strange yesterday’s game was.  Leafs fans may not recognize this Kyle Wellwood, but he was a game-changer last night.  Vanouver will take the win, but they know they can be a lot sharper in Game 2.  Meantime, the Canucks have added Jeff Cowan to the team’s playoff taxi squad.
• “It’s tough to lose like that, especially with a minute left,” said Blackhawks sniper Patrick Kane.  The Hawks blew a pretty good chance yesterday, opines Steve Rosenbloom.  Even so, there is a lot that Chicago can take from this game.  In fact, Neil Hayes of the Chicago Sun-Times thinks yesterday’s performance was a strong statement from Chicago.

Teams that have been eliminated from the playoffs:

• Two Blue Jackets, Jan Hejda and Alex Picard, underwent wrist surgery on Wednesday.
• Jeff Carter was playing in the playoffs with a separated shoulder.  (Writer’s note: He really didn’t look right, so this doesn’t surprise me.)
• The city of San Jose and the entire Sharks organization is mourning the passing of Frank Jirik.
• Sean Avery believes that Rangers coach John Tortorella will make him a better player.  Just how similar are Avery and Tortorella?  Speaking of Tortorella, he came out yesterday and apologized for his water bottle incident. “It was a terrible year, not only the way the team ended, but personally,” said Scott Gomez.
• “We’re 48 hours away from the most devastating loss I’ve had as a coach or a player,” said Devils coach Brent Sutter.  Brian Gionta is an UFA this summer and he says he wants to comeback to play for the Devils.  Meantime, Zach Parise is just plain tired of losing.

Teams that did not make the playoffs:

• Dan Bickley wonders if the city of Phoenix would miss the Phoenix Coyotes in this morning’s Arizona Republic?
• “And if I ever got there (back to the NHL), they would be my No. 1 pick because they showed me the interest first. I never forget that. I respect that and they would be my first pick,” said Jaromir Jagr about the Edmonton Oilers.
• Ilya Kovalchuk has been playing great over at the World Championships.
• Panthers winger Richard Zednik has left the NHL to sign with the KHL.
• Leafs prospect Dale Mitchell has become a bit of a cult-hero in Windsor.  Hey Toronto, remember Paul Maurice?

• Detroit/Anaheim
• Vancouver/Chicago
• Boston/Carolina
• Washington/Pittsburgh

FINAL		T
	Vancouver	5
	Chicago	3
Game Preview
Game Scoresheet
Team Game Threads: Nucks Misconduct Second City Hockey
Game Recap

In the lost city of the left-coasters, at a faceoff time adjusted with the potential viewing audience in mind, the crown jewel of the second round begins. OK, it’s the only stone out there tonight; and that’s a good thing because it’s also the forgotten series. Check out any second round preview splash in any medium: Canucks and Hawks are last on the list and least in the cover. Let’s be fair, I wasn’t able to hear the IC show live last night and it hasn’t been archived at this moment so our boys may have given it some props; and it’s way behind the Champs vs the Underdogs and Sid vs OV and the Cardiac Kids vs the Big Bad Bruins in terms of glitz.

But still…let’s have a look.

Goaltending

Let’s start here because Vancouver will win this series and the reason will be Roberto Luongo.

It isn’t just that head-to-head he’s better than Nikolai Khabibulin, though he is; or that he’s younger, though he is; or that he’s more rested, though he is; it’s that he’s playing the best lights-out goal on the planet right now.

His team has complete faith in him and that allows them to play with confidence. They believe they will win.

Very soon, the Chicago Blackhawks will believe it too. They’ll try to run him, but that’ll only motivate him and bring his teammates closer together to defend him. He’s waited a long time for this chance with this team and the look in his eye says he’s not going to let it go.

Edge: Canucks, not even close.

Defense

I like the Blackhawk D. They’re young, mobile, gritty, tough, and determined. They play well together and there’s a lot of them — good depth. Seabrook, Barker and Campbell can bring it on O; and Keith and the rest are solid on D. I think Campbell’s still too soft for my liking with that team, and his contribution on O can stand some improvement; but he fits in well with the others. They played well most of the time against the Flames but there were some real lapses. They won’t get away with that against the Canucks — a lot of speed there.

I like the Canuck D. They’re solid, experienced defenders who can play it any way you want. Banging game? No problem. Wanna go? Ask Kevin or Willie or Shane. Power play points? Ask Kevin or Sami or Alexander or Mattius. The Canucks allowed 5 goals in 4 games vs the Blues, and yes that was in large part due to RL, but he and the D are so comfortable and in tune with each other they make a tough unit to beat. They move the puck up ice very well and can skate with anyone, and one through six they’re quality is higher than the Hawks’.

Edge: Canucks, but closer than the Goaltending.

Forwards

Here’s where it gets interesting.

Chicago’s young guns are fast and talented and are just that — young. They’ve got spirit and young legs and hands and hands and hands. Nothing in the way of NHL Playoff experience though and that could be interesting as the pressure mounts. The Hawk “vets” like Havlat (who would have believed a full year — except cynical Richard — from him?) and Sharp have played well, and Eager and Byfuglien are always ready to nail the opposition to the wall and drop ‘em. The acquisition of Sammy Pahlsson has added an element of stability that only comes with experience and savvy. He’s a lot like P.J. Axelsson of the Bruins that way: what used to be called a utility player.

The Canucks’ forwards are in a groove. It looks to me like Burrows is reading the twins and they him a lot like Gretzky and Kurri did. They’ll kill you if you blink, and did you notice — Henrik is getting downright cranky! OK, maybe not cranky. Feisty? Yeah, feisty. Can’t be a bad thing. I’m always worried about Sundin and Demitra and their various wonky body parts, but Demitra has looked solid for quite a while and Sundin is reported by his coach to be skating the best he has since his arrival. They’re always two winces away from the IR, those two, but what they bring to the table while they’re there is big. Sundin isn’t what he was but his presence is significant to his team, I think. As for Ryan Kesler — he’s a warrior. He’s on my team any day.

The most intriguing player on both teams to me is Kyle Wellwood. I think he just may have started along the most amazing journey of remaking himself since Stan Mikita did it as a Blackhawk. He’ll never be the star Mikita was, but his reinvention of himself as a Canuck is nothing but good news for his team. He’s my X-factor this series and the next. Look for him to play a significant role.

Edge: Close, but again, Canucks.

Coaching, Special Teams, Et cetera

I like Joel Quenneville. He’s classy and smart and I think his team plays hard for him. Alain Vigneault is a complete mystery to me. I can’t ever remember a head coach who survived a GM/President change for a whole season. And prospered. Without much in the way of rumours. In Vancouver? No way. Oh yes. So it looks like he can handle pressure.

PP: Edge to Vancouver.

PK: Slight edge to the Hawks with Pahlsson.

Home Ice Advantage: Big for Vancouver. Chicago can win on the road, but should it come to that, can they play from 2 games back? I think they might have to.

Edge: Canucks

So?

So in the first round I was good. Seven of eight. Where did I miss? You can go back in the IC archives and look it up if you want. Nah — it was Vancouver. I thought the Blues would just roll over them. Hey Canucks — won’t get fooled again.

Prediction: Canucks in 6 (but 5 wouldn’t surprise me).
We shall see. That’s why we watch.

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

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

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

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

Second Round Matchups

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

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

Vancouver Canucks (3) versus Chicago Blackhawks (4)

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

Boston Bruins (1) versus TBA

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

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus TBA

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

Teams that have been eliminated from the playoffs:

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

Teams that did not make the playoffs:

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

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

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

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

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

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

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

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

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

Western Conference

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

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

Non-Playoff Teams/Stories:

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

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

• The Sharks’ top line all scored one time, as San Jose managed to stay alive by defeating the Ducks in overtime last night.  Marleau, Thornton and Setoguchi wanted to be reunited and coach McLellan granted their wish.  After yesterday’s performance, there is no doubt as to who the number one unit is in San Jose.  Evgeni Nabokov was sharp yesterday.
• Anaheim was not happy with the overtime goal scored by Patrick Marleau.  Even though they lost, the Ducks still remain confident heading home. 

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

• Chris Osgood is ready to roll for Round 2.  Meantime, fourth line center Darren Helm has added a nice element to the team’s fourth line.
• The Blue Jackets season in review courtesy of Aaron Portzline.  Looking forward to next season, the Jackets need to look to add depth.

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

• Ryan Kesler is fast becoming the favorite Canuck player for many of the team’s fans.  In encouraging news, Mats Sundin had another good practice yesterday.  Speaking of injuries, Willie Mitchell took some of practice off due to general soreness but should be alright.
• With players returning from injury next season, the Blues’ power play should be much improved.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

• The Blackhawks plain dominated the Flames yesterday night.  The Flames were just stupid last night, writes Steve Rosenbloom.  “We want to keep some gas on the pedal,” said coach Joel Quenneville.  Here is an interesting profile on Dustin Byfuglien.
• Miikka Kiprusoff doesn’t really know why he was pulled in last night’s game.  The man who pulled him, Mike Keenan, took responsibility for last night’s loss.  The Flames are now on the brink of elimination.

Illegal Curve is now on Twitter and Facebook.

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

• Rest assured, if the Sharks lose Game 5 tonight, the team will look a lot different come next season.  When asked about the Sharks’ playoff struggles this season, coach Todd McLellan had a very interesting answer.  Wasn’t this Sharks team put together to avoid this type of first round result?
• The Ducks’ top three forwards are doing a terrific job of mucking it up against the Sharks.  One of the reasons for the Ducks’ success has been their success in the face-off circle.  The pressure really is squarely on San Jose to prove the critics are wrong, writes Dan Wood.  Mid-season acquisition Ryan Whitney is someone Ducks fans should get to know because he will be with the team for a long time.  Bobby Ryan isn’t only a young man, he is the man in Anaheim.

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

• Helene St. James thinks that the Wings would defeat the Ducks in six games if the teams meet in the second round.  For these Wings, playing on the road doesn’t really matter.  Be smart and don’t mess with the Johan.
• He had a terrific rookie season, but the Blue Jackets admittedly overplayed Steve Mason.  Rick Nash loves Columbus, but he was non-commital yesterday when it came to talking about his future.  (Writer’s note: Let the Leafs rumours begin…)

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

• For his Canucks teammates, it was nice to see Taylor Pyatt back on the ice yesterday.  Meantime, Mats Sundin may not be ready for the start of the second round.  Roberto Luongo is not talking about dehyrdation.  Ryan Johnson is getting credit on a pretty cool national platform for his solid defensive play.
• Keith Tkachuk is a pending UFA, but he says he wants to return to St. Louis next season.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

• Chicago players know they have to clamp down on Jarome Iginla and Olli Jokinen.  Nikolai Khabibulin is not going to replaced in net by Cristobal Huet.
• Dion Phaneuf has been less noticeable for the Flames through the first four games of this series and that is actually a good thing, writes Steve Macfarlane.  If Calgary wants to win this series, they have to win a game on the road.  It looks like the Hawks woke up a sleeping giant in Jarome Iginla and are regretting it.  Apparently the Hawks claim they aren’t getting worn down by the Flames’ physical play.

Illegal Curve is now on Twitter and Facebook.

Boston Bruins (1) versus Montreal Canadiens (8)

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

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

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

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

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

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Philadelphia Flyers (5)

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

Western Conference

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

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

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

• Patrick Marleau has to bring his “A” game into tonight’s criticial Game 4 contest, writes Mark Purdy.  No question that the additions of Dan Boyle and Rob Blake have improved the Sharks’ power play immensely.  Meanwhile, Torrey Mitchell had a hand in his return.  If the Sharks win this series, it will be because their support cast has given Joe Thornton some support.
• In shocking news (sarcasm alert), penalties have been the achilles heel for the Ducks.  The winner of this series may be determined by which team’s top defensemen play better, explains Dan Wood.  Ducks rookie Bobby Ryan has been nominated for the Calder Trophy.

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

• In Columbus, Red Wings Brad Stuart and Chris Osgood save their talking for the ice.  Marian Hossa summed it up perfectly when he said that “winning is fun.”  It may surprise you that Detroit has not had much success with sweeping teams out of the first round.
• The Blue Jackets have nothing to lose tonight, so they may as well play like it.  Ken Hitchcock does not think his team is out of gas.  The Wings’ puck possession style has been too much for the inexperienced Jackets.

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

• The Canucks players and coaches think the team’s upcoming break can only be seen as a positive.  Did Roberto Luongo get in the Blues’ heads?  Luongo was the best player for Vancouver in round one, but the Sedins have vastly improved from their past playoff performances.  Sure the Canucks won’t say who they want to face, but they would not mind home-ice advantage.
• The Blues can take a lot from their loss to the Canucks, writes Jeremy Rutherford.  Both David Backes and T.J. Oshie are heading overseas to play for U.S. at the World Championships.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

• After an impressive comeback, the Hawks fell short in Calgary and Chris Kuc thinks this series is bound to go seven games.  Here are some Blackhawks notes.
• Eric Nystrom is becoming a cult hero in Calgary with his clutch playoff play.  Mike Keenan gave credit to Eric’s dad Bobby for his ability to come through when it matters most.  Nystrom was great, but Olli Jokinen also brought his top game yesterday.  Flames fans were pumped up and relieved at the same time, after the Flames took Game 4.  If the Flames advance in the playoffs, Wayne Primeau could return to the lineup.

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

• Last night, the Sharks came out to play when they had to most, writes Mark Purdy.  Everything they set out to accomplish in Game 3, they did just that. Torrey Mitchell returned to the San Jose lineup last night for the first time all season.
• “It’s ridiculous. It’s almost like hitting yourself in the head,” said Teemu Selanne about his team’s penchant for unnecessary penalties.  “We’re still in the driver’s seat,” said Corey Perry after last night’s 4-3 home loss.  All Anaheim players need to do for Game 4 is pretend they are playing on the road.

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

• The Red Wings rained on the Jackets playoff parade about one minute into Game 3.  This series is basically over, writes Drew Sharp of the Detroit Free Press.  Bob Wojnowski of the Detroit News calls this series a “giant mismatch.”
• “We’ve let the fans down, we’ve let ourselves down and we’ve let the coaching staff down,” said Blue Jackets netminder Steve Mason.  Even though they are getting dominated, the Blue Jackets fans are just happy to be in the playoffs.  Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch pronouncing this series over.  At least it was a fun party inside the arena.

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

• Roberto Luongo turned aside 47 shots and led the Canucks to a sweep of the youthful Blues.  Alexandre Burrows says last night’s win was for the late Luc Bourdon.  Will this break actually hurt the Canucks?  The Canucks fans were partying hard after last night’s win.  Sami Salo did not suit up for yesterday’s game.
• The Blues dressing room was silent for about 15 minutes after last night’s loss.  The goal that was called back last night may have cost St. Louis the series.  Even though they lost, this season has been a great learning experience for the young Blues.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

• The Flames and Blackhawks are going at it on the ice and off of it.  These teams just plain do not like each other.  Patrick Kane will return to the Blackhawks lineup tonight.  Former Flames and Blackhawks forward Theo Fleury is enjoying sober life. 
• The Blackhawks are trash-talking Jarome Iginla hard, and it appears that only motivates the veteran right winger.  Most of the Flames players believe Iginla plays better when he’s angry.  The NHL has told both teams to ease up on the trash-talking.  “I think, in the last two games, we showed we can dominate them and came up on the short end of the stick because we didn’t play a full 60 minutes,” said Eric Nystrom.

 Game Notes:

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

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

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

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

Red Wings vs. Blue Jackets 3 Stars:

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

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

• For a team that cannot score any goals on the ice, at least the Sharks are doing well when it comes to television ratings.  San Jose just has to continue sticking with the process and ramp up their intensity a little bit more, says GM Doug Wilson.  Travis Moen is not talking to any of his former teammates until the series is over.
• The Ducks were not very good at home this year.  The Ducks have to make sure they don’t let the Sharks realize their potential.

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

• Mike Babcock says he has enough players to matchup against Rick Nash, so he isn’t overly worried about not having last change.  Perhaps Detroit has learned from last year’s first round series against Nashville, that you can’t take road games lightly.  Jiri Hudler, for all his talent, doesn’t get much attention outside of Detroit.
• The Blue Jackets are hoping the crowd will be the seventh man on ice tonight.  If Columbus has a chance in this series, they better start getting after Chris Osgood.  Fear not Jackets fans, Steve Mason still has confidence in himself.

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

• Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province says Mason Raymond has been great in his team’s first round series.  Don’t expect Mats Sundin in the Vancouver lineup tonight.  Tony Gallagher wonders how the Canucks will play when they face stiffer competition?  The Canucks know they are good team.
• If only every Blues player could play like Andy McDonald.  Here is how the Blues have fared in the playoffs as compared to the regular season.  The Blues may be down 3-0, but they aren’t done yet.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

• The Blackhawks blew a 1-0 lead yesterday to lose 4-2 at Calgary.  The Hawks most definitely missed Patrick Kane on Monday.  If Nikolai Khabibulin does falter, Cristobal Huet is ready to go.
• Olli Jokinen answered his critics yesterday with a solid game.  Calgary’s role players were the key last night.  Todd Bertuzzi played a very physical game.  Mike Cammalleri’s play during the playoffs may have a significant effect on his next contract.

Western Conference

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

• Interestingly, Joe Thornton and Ducks netminder Jonas Hiller are good friends.  The Sharks’ veterans are doing their best to keep the team’s young players from getting down on themselves.  Tim Kawakami says Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau need to pick it up.
• More on on the unknown netminder Jonas Hiller from Helene Elliot of the L.A. Times.  Do this Ducks team remind you of another Ducks team?

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

• Dan Cleary says the Red Wings are making the Jackets do things they are not comfortable doing.  As of now, Datsyuk and Zetterberg will continue to play on different lines.  Ken Hitchcock is claiming the Red Wings cheat on face-offs.
• The Blue Jackets were very happy with the play of Rostislav Klesla in Game 1.  Ken Hitchcock is in his element when coaching during the playoffs.  Here are the Blue Jackets’ probable lines for tonight’s tilt.

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

• Roberto Luongo is proving he is the best goaltender in the world with his play so far in the Canucks/Blues series.  Andy Murray was not happy with the Canucks bench at the end of yesterday’s game.  Vancouver is paying the price to win.
• Andy Murray is not worried about the Blues’ ability to handle pressure.  Down 2-0, the Blues are pumped up to be coming home to a raucous crowd.  The “Kid Line” was kept intact for yesterday’s game.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) versus Calgary Flames (5)

• Mike Keenan had some entertaning interactions with Chicago Tribune beat writer Chris Kuc.  The controversy from Game 1 may linger into Game 2.  With such a veteran team, the Flames aren’t panicking down 1-0.  The Hawks understand that Calgary is a physically imposing bunch.
• Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun said the referees got the call right in Game 1.  Cory Sarich remains day-to-day for the Flames.  If the Flames want to win this series, they need Jarome Iginla to be Jarome Iginla.

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

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

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

Canucks vs. Blues 3 Stars:

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

Western Conference

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

• The Sharks’ power play cost them on Thursday going 0-for-6.  Only nine of San Jose’s 35 shots were recorded within six feet of the crease.  The pressure is squarely on the Sharks’ shoulders now.
• Jonas Hiller was terrific last night, turning aside 35 shots as the Ducks upset the Sharks 2-0.  Scott Niedermayer was tremendous for Anaheim all night.  “We still played a pretty good game, but we know they’re going to step it up next game,” said Chris Pronger.

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

• He may get criticized a lot but Chris Osgood has confidence in himself and that was evident last night.  Steve Mason did not seem phased by the rowdy Detroit crowd.  Blue Jackets coach Ken Hitchcock was not happy after yesterday’s loss.  Jonathan Ericsson played extremely well in his first NHL playoff game.  The Wings’ third line played like the team’s first line.
• The Blue Jackets played a solid first period, but it was ugly after that, writes Aaron Portzline.  Give Chris Osgood credit for playing well yesterday.  Columbus gave the Red Wings too much help, by putting two pucks in their own net.  “They got the bounces tonight, and we didn’t get a one,” said Rick Nash.

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

• Due to a donation from Save-On-Foods, the Canucks/Blues games in St. Louis will now be aired in high definition.  In terms of the actual series itself, Roberto Luongo is not fazed by the Blues’ attempts to get under his skin.  If you looking from information from the Canucks’ assistant coaches, that is not going to happen.  Vancouver is a very confident team at five-on-five.  Having Sami Salo in the lineup has been a great benefit for the Canucks.
• Andy Murray was only happy with the performance of seven of his players in Game 1, so he is encouraged for Game 2.  Andy McDonald is claiming his snowing of Roberto Luongo was not intentional.  Patrick Berglund admits he did not play well on Wednesday.

Chicago Blackhawks (4) verses Calgary Flames (5)

• The Blackhawks gave their fans a lot to cheer about in the first playoff game in Chicago in seven years.  The roar of the United Center was back last night, writes Rick Morrissey.  Even Joel Queneville was nervous for Game 1.  The Hawks’ youthfulness was apparent early on but it did not cost them.
• The Flames just could not hold on to their two leads on Thursday.  Calgary was not happy with the no-call on Andrew Ladd’s goalie interference.  Without three regulars on defense, it was evident that the Flames were having trouble in the defensive zone.  If the Flames want to win this series, they have to turn around their awful power play.  The Blackhawks’ youth did not show for long.

The Eastern Conference playoff morning papers will be posted a little bit late today.

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

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

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

A few interesting things to note about the predictions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eastern Conference

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western Conference

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Non-Playoff Teams

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

• 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**