NHL Playoff Morning 3rd Round Papers (Holiday Edition): Crosby bring out his best, Cam Ward is the difference, Big hit on Marian Hossa, Adam Burish fine after scare

We here at Illegalcurve apologize for the delay in posting the morning papers.  (Victoria Day today in Canada).  Richard will have the papers back up and running bright and early on Tuesday.

3rd Round Playoff Matchups

Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins (4) versus Carolina Hurricanes (6)

• On one side of this series is Penguins coach Dan Bylsma, and on the other is Carolina Hurricanes coach Paul Maurice.  The status of left wing Pascal Dupuis for tonight’s Game 1 of the Eastern Conference final at Mellon Arena remains a “game-time decision.”  Prisuta: Fleury‘s best will be required.  NHL Playoffs: Penguins’ postseason brings out best in Crosby. Looking ahead to the finals.
• Can Cam Ward make the difference?  Hurricanes vs. Penguins: Who has the edge?  How the Canes can beat the Penguins.  What the Canes next stop in Pittsburgh might look like.

• Seasoned greetings! Veteran Wings give young ‘Hawks a rude welcome.  Big hit on Marian Hossa brings only a scare.   Dan Cleary continues scoring streak for Wings.  Wings’ Andreas Lilja skating hard, keeping hopes high.  Chris Chelios’ parents love the Hawks, root for Wings.
• Blackhawks’ Adam Burish fine after scare.  Memories of day Chris Chelios was traded by Blackhawks.  Quenneville decries ‘all phases of our game’ after strong start.   

The Phoenix situation:

• Phoenix-area sports fans have mixed views on whether the Coyotes can flourish in their state.
• Coyotes’ future concerns these Rockets.