Stanley Cup Playoffs, Night 35

The Senators could sweep the series but today, they did win it. And that puts them in the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time in their history. It also results in a Canadian team making the finals for the third consecutive year. Go SENS!

Senators 3, Sabres 2, 1OT
Senators win series 4-1
It was a nail-biter to the very end — especially for Ottawa fans fearing the inevitable postseason slump that has often plagued their home team. Not so inevitable now, huh? But actually, Jochen Hecht put Buffalo on the board first — in the second period. It wasn't the first time the Sabres have blown a playoff game lead. Dany Heatley and Jason Spezza each notched tallies in the final minutes of the second period to grab the lead. Maxim Afinogenov, however, saw to it that this game would have extra time, taking full advantage of a 5-on-3 power play opportunity. But it took just half of a single overtime period to decide the game as once again Sens captain Daniel Alfredsson played the part of hero. His 10th goal of the clinched the Eastern Conference for the Senators — a feat never before accomplished by his club.

The sad part is that after an unbelievably stunning season, the Buffalo Sabres have to go home empty-handed. They were good — very good. They deserve a shot at the Cup as much as anyone. But that's what best-of-seven playoff hockey is all about. Who can be the strongest, the fastest — the best! It turns out that the Senators are best in the East. Now it's time to find out who's best in the West. Anaheim and Detroit tomorrow.

Photo: ESPN.com