Eastern Conference Semifinal Game 7: Capitals/Penguins

Pre-game Breaking News: Sergei Gonchar is in the Penguins line-up and will start for them tonight.

In game analysis: The Caps have inexplicably not shown up tonight. Out shot 16-5 in the first period. Over 10 turnovers in the first period alone. Two goals in the first two minutes of the 2nd period. Varlamov is getting pulled. His youth was his un-doing in this game. Theodore is in, but is it too little too late?

Penguins/Capitals Post Game Analysis:

I’m shocked that Washington went out so meekly.  I thought Pittsburgh would win but not nearly as handily as they did.  Crosby/Malkin/Staal and Fleury showed that last year was no fluke and the Penguins are going to give the B’s or Canes fits in the next round.  Varlamoz played well above his pay grade but in the end, the more talented team won the series. 

Ongoing Phoenix Saga Daily Tidbit:

• Hamilton council approves Balsillie lease option for Copps Coliseum

Jim Balsillie might not own the Phoenix Coyotes yet, but he has a place to house the team if everything goes his way.

On Wednesday, Hamilton city council unanimously approved an option on a long-term lease for Balsillie on Copps Coliseum.

The deal gives Balsillie until October to bring an NHL franchise to the arena. In exchange, Balsillie is promising to sign a lease for up to 32 years if he secures the Coyotes.

Balsillie is also committing on paper to $5 million Cdn in renovations to the Coliseum by fall 2010.

For complete story, click here.