Stanley Cup Playoffs, Night 11

We were light on games today since 5 of the 16 teams that made the playoffs have already been eliminated. Tonight, the Dallas Stars forced a Game 7 on the heels of Marty Turco's third shutout of the series and second in as many games. This afternoon, however, wasn't quite as nice. The Flames lost their minds at the end of the game, which they lost very convincingly. Read on.

Red Wings 5, Flames 1
Red Wings lead series 3-2
Well the Red Wings were certainly in control of this game and, if I may say so, the Flames turned into a bunch of five-year-olds about it at the end of the game. Daniel Clearly opened the scoring when he was awarded a penalty shot three minutes into the second period. A short time later, he left the ice after a scary incident of going head-first into the boards. No one pushed him, though. He fell. Seriously. Not one of Detroit's five goals came at even strength. Three came on the power play and two came while shorthanded (including Cleary's penalty shot). Mike Emrick and Eddie Olczyk called the game on NBC in HD.

Now here's where Calgary turned sour today. First, the Flames pulled Kiprusoff after he allowed five goals. Jamie McLennan took over and he wasn't on the ice two minutes before sending a violent slash to midsection of Johan Franzen. Even the NBC commentators couldn't believe what they were seeing. It just kept going. Before the final buzzer, Jarome Iginla basically butt-ended Mathieu Schneider for no apparent reason and then cross-checked him to the ice from behind. The league should hand down suspensions for McLennan and Iginla. Big ones.

These are a bunch of stand-up guys on this Flames team. Or so I thought. Down by four goals, the fact that they lost their cool isn't surprising. It's the way in which they handled it that is. Even Detroit coach Mike Babcock was shocked. All he had was a disgusted look for the Calgary bench. And they certainly deserved it. I sincerely hope Detroit takes Game 6. The Flames deserve to have their season ended as soon as possible.

Stars 2, Canucks 0
Series tied 3-3
I love it! Game 7! That's what the Stanley Cup Playoffs are all about. I was starting to get worried with five series ending in five games or less. And more Kudos to Marty Turco for his second straight shutout and third of the series. The Canucks just can't seem to get anything past him lately. Mike Modano scored early in the first period during a two-man advantage for the Stars. Jeff Halpern got an insurance goal in the third to seal the deal for Dallas. Versus had the game in glorious high definition. Amazing stuff!

Photos: ESPN.com, CBS Sportsline.com

Stanley Cup Playoffs, Night 10

Man, it's just that time of the postseason when team's keep living on the brink of elimination and going home. And more teams went home tonight. As expected, the Sabres finished off the Islanders, the Sharks finished off the Preds, and unfortunately, the Lightning will go into Game 6 with a series to lose. Catch a brief recap of tonight's action underneath.

Sabres 4, Islanders 3
Sabres win series 4-1
Finally, I got a prediction right! But damn if the Islanders didn't put up one hell of a fight at the end of this one to try and force another game. Drew Stafford was responsible for the first goal of the game with five minutes left in the first. Jason Pominville scored 39 seconds into the second and Derk Roy scored No. 3 for Buffalo. Miroslav Satan put New York on the board early but Maxim Afinogenov quickly responded. Buffalo advanced tonight donning their "traditional" third jerseys. Hence the '70s era look in the photo. Versus is broadcasting in HD. You gotta love it.

Devils 3, Lightning 0
Devils lead series 3-2
The Devils will be in Tampa on Sunday and they smell blood in the water. The Bolts are on the cusp of ending their season unless they can re-solve Marty Brodeur, who was, by Dave Mishkin's account, rather brilliant. And despite the Lightning announcer's attempt at jinxing the shutout, Brodeur picked up his career 22nd of the playoffs. Andy Greene scored his first career playoff goal in the first period. Brian Gionta then scored halfway through the second to give New Jersey the 2-0 lead. It's worth noting Scott Gomez had assists on both goals because he scored the empty-netter with less than two minutes left. A veritable nail in the coffin for the Lightning in this one. Dave Mishkin had the call on the radio over the web. Good news! NBC is carrying Game 6 on Sunday! I can't believe it! We better win it.

Sharks 3, Predators 2
Sharks win series 4-1
It was starting to look like overtime for Game 5. But in the end, it wasn't meant to be. San Jose knocked off Nashville in 5. Ryane Clowe scored first for San Jose in period one. Then in the first five minutes of the second, Nashville scored twice in the span of 39 seconds. But Patrick Marleau scored on the power play with two minutes left in the second to tie the game again. Marleau then scored again in the final minutes of the game to give the Sharks the game and series victories. Tonight, the Preds are finished. (Guess they're not winning the Cup this year.) Versus carried the TSN telecast of the game. Not HD, but it's something.

Photos: ESPN.com, CBS Sportsline.com

Isles' Hill Suspended For Violating NHL Drug Policy

April 20, 2007
ESPN.com / Associated Press

Defenseman Hill suspended 20 games

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Islanders defenseman Sean Hill was hit with a 20-game suspension by the NHL on Friday — just hours before New York faced elimination from the playoffs — for violating the league's drug policy.

Hill's ban began Friday night when the Islanders faced the Buffalo Sabres in Game 5 of the first-round Eastern Conference playoff series. The earliest Hill could return to the lineup would be the Stanley Cup finals.

He is the first player to be suspended under this program.

Islanders general manager Garth Snow said the team supported the NHL's decision to suspend Hill.

"The New York Islanders do not support the use of performance-enhancing agents in any form," Snow added. "As for tonight, we have a game an hour away, and that's what we're going to be focused on from here on out."

Snow spoke for 30 seconds, reading from a brief statement, and did not take any questions.

Islanders coach Ted Nolan declined comment outside the team's locker room. Team spokesman Chris Botta said Hill traveled home to Long Island before the game.

New York started the day in a 3-1 hole to top-seeded Buffalo in the best-of-seven matchup.

The 37-year-old Hill signed a one-year deal worth $600,000 last summer and is eligible to be a free agent again in the upcoming offseason. If the Islanders don't play 19 more playoff games this year, Hill's suspension will continue next season without pay.

Hill showed no sign Thursday, before the Islanders flew to Buffalo, that anything was amiss. He joined the rest of his teammates in talking about putting several controversial calls in consecutive home losses this week behind them as they prepared for Game 5.

"If we can use it as a motivational tool, that would be great. If we can't, we just have to put it behind us," he said Thursday. "It doesn't matter what happened in the last game, it doesn't matter what happened in the previous games. We have to focus all our energy on that one game. If we do that we'll have a good outcome."

Hill, who missed only one regular-season game with the Islanders, had one goal, 24 assists and a plus-6 rating in 81 contests. He had no points and was a minus-1 in the first four playoff games against the Sabres.

As part of the new collective bargaining agreement that ended the yearlong lockout in 2005, a player receives a 20-game suspension for a first positive test and is subject to a mandatory referral to the league's substance abuse-behavioral health program for evaluation, education and possible treatment.

Every NHL player can be given up to two "no-notice" tests every year, with at least one conducted on a team-wide basis. Players can be given a "no-notice" test at any time.

Sabres defenseman Brian Campbell said Buffalo players were tested twice during the regular season.

"Who knows what happened?" Campbell said, before the game. "I feel bad for him that it's happened. You don't know what it is until everything comes out. ... You just have to be careful all the time."

Hill, a Duluth, Minn., native, was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the eighth round of the 1988 draft. In 841 career regular-season games, Hill has recorded 60 goals and 229 assists for 289 points.

He played with the Canadiens in the 1991 and 1992 playoffs — winning a Stanley Cup ring during his rookie year — before ever dressing for an NHL regular-season game.

Hill spent the 2005-06 season with the Florida Panthers, following three with the Carolina Hurricanes, before signing with the Islanders. He is the second Islanders player to be given a lengthy suspension by the NHL in just over a month.

Hard-hitting forward Chris Simon received a record ban of at least 25 games that ended his season and could carry into the next campaign, for striking Ryan Hollweg of the New York Rangers with a two-handed swing of his stick.

Simon served the 20th game of the NHL's longest suspension for on-ice violence Friday. He is ineligible to return to the playoffs this year and will have to sit out any remaining games next year should the Islanders fail to play five more this season.

Stanley Cup Playoffs, Night 9

Last night, the Thrashers became the first team to be eliminated this postseason. Tonight, they were joined by the Penguins and the Wild. The Stars, however, managed to hang on and take away a shutout win in overtime! Read summaries of all the exciting action below.

Senators 3, Penguins 0
Senators win series 4-1
Canada's capital city celebrates tonight! Dany Heatley opened the scoring on the power play a minute into the second period. Five minutes later, Antoine Vermette gave the Sens the two-goal pad. Then with two minutes left in the the period, Chris Kelly made it 3-0. And Ray Emery was definitely the star tonight in the Sens' goal net because Pittsburgh wasn't without chances to score. They blew more than their share of power plays. So tonight, the Senators join the Rangers in the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Versus had coverage in HD (despite what their website said).

Flames 3, Red Wings 2
Series tied 2-2
Wow! The Flames had the best home record this season, you say? Who would know? Daymond Langkow finally started playing like he's supposed to but scoring twice, including the first goal and the game-winning goal. Craig Conroy also scored for Calgary. Detroit's power play sucked and despite Todd Bertuzzi tying the game relatively quickly after Langkow's first, it wasn't enough. Like New Jersey/Tampa Bay, this series is going to at least six. They're back in Detroit for the next one. Versus has the CBC telecast. No HD.

Stars 1, Canucks 0, 1OT
Canucks lead series 3-2
The Stars live to fight another day thanks to Brenden Morrow. Everyone predicted that this would be a low-scoring series. Then Game 1 saw nine goals and everyone questioned that assessment. And then it went back to usual. Dallas snapped a six-game OT losing streak in the playoffs. I'd report on other goals — but there were none. Kudos to Marty Turco on his second shutout of the series. Versus joined the game in progress on CBC as called by Jim Houston.

Ducks 4, Wild 1
Ducks win series 4-1
The night started with a brawl — in the warm-ups. So you knew it was going to be a good one. Anaheim got the early lead on a goal from Chris Pronger a minute into the game. In the closing minutes of the second period, Marian Gaborik tied things for the Wild during a penalty kill. But 47 seconds later, Ryan Getzlaf returned the lead to the Ducks on the power play. Midway through the third, Corey Perry scored his first NHL goal to make it 3-1 and Travis Moen popped in an empty-netter in the closing moments to seal the deal. And not a single one of my predictions has been right yet! I'm 0-for-3 for god's sake!

Photos: ESPN.com, CBS Sportsline.com

NBC Tackles 'Law' Review

April 19, 2007
Zap2it.com

Network, Wolf still in talks over 'L&O,' 'CI'

"Law & Order" is getting close to passing the 400-episode mark, a rare feat for a prime-time drama. But there's a chance the show won't get to reach that milestone.

NBC and "Law & Order" creator Dick Wolf have been in discussions over the fate of the venerable series and its younger sibling "Criminal Intent" for the past month, but no deal has been struck. It now appears that the network will hold off on a decision until shortly before it announces its 2007-08 schedule in mid-May.

The central issue, according to the showbiz trade papers, is money. Both the "L&O" mothership and "Criminal Intent" have suffered ratings declines this year — with the original, that's due in no small part to a move from Wednesday to Friday nights. As veteran shows, though, both command fairly hefty license fees.

Wolf has reportedly offered to trim the "Law & Order" budget substantially in order to make the show more financially viable for NBC. He tells the trades that he's optimistic the two sides will find a way to bring both shows back next season.

In a statement, NBC says that "We're in discussions with Dick to explore ways to bring back one or both shows, but no final decision has been made."

"Law & Order: SVU," the third show in Wolf's franchise, has already secured a pickup for next season. It's by far the highest-rated of the three, averaging 12.2 million viewers per week. The other two each draw a little better than 9 million viewers.

Should the original "Law & Order," which wraps its 17th season next month, return in 2007-08, it will pass the 400-episode mark early in the season.

———

Imagine that. Personally, I can't. Law & Order has been on the air since I was six years old. I don't think I can even conceive of it not being on NBC's schedule. But we'll just have to wait until May to see.

San Jose's Shoulder Still A Mystery (To Me)

I know my readership here isn't through the roof or anything, but does anyone stopping by happen to know what the "WAS" stands for on the left shoulder of the Sharks' uniforms? My curiosity is getting to me and I can't seem to find an answer anywhere. I appreciate any comments, helpful or otherwise.

UPDATE (5:04 PM): Thanks to a little extra research and a little deduction, I think I have my answer. A little over a week ago, San Jose's goaltending coach Warren Strelow died at the age of 73. A little guess work leads me to believe his middle inital was A and that the Sharks are wearing the patch in the playoffs as a tribute to him. Sure, I'm no rocket scientist, but there you have it.

Early Look At Round 2 In East

Okay, I know this is way premature, but sue me.

With the Rangers having completed the sweep of Atlanta, the Eastern Conference Semifinals picture begins to come into focus. First, they knocked off a higher seed, so that always makes things ineresting. Here are a few scenarios that we might see for the East next week.

(1) Sabres vs (6) Rangers
(2) Devils vs (4) Senators
This scenario assumes that the higher seeds will win the rest of the series, but New York itself is evidence that's not always the case. Yet it would be interesting as the Sabres would still not be required to leave the state to play away games. Plus I think the Devils/Senators would be one of the most evenly matched series in the entire conference.

(1) Sabres vs (7) Lightning
(5) Penguins vs (6) Rangers
Here I assume the Lightning are able to take the Devils and the Penguins mount an impressive comeback. Anything's possible. What I don't like is the fact that, should the Bolts get past New Jersey, we'll have to contend with Buffalo. On the other hand, a Penguins/Rangers series certainly allows for the possibility of the Broadway Blueshirts becoming a conference finalist this year.

(4) Senators vs (8) Islanders
(6) Rangers vs (7) Lightning
All right, this one is completely wishful thinking, but again, you just never know. Even though the Thrashers did get stomped, I'll tell you why I think the Lightning can beat the Rangers. Because Henrik Lundqvist is no Marty Brodeur. As good as New York was in that series, the fact that the goaltending sucked on the other side is the reason why they won. That and the Thrashers couldn't bury a puck to save their lives. Tampa Bay has the firepower of Marty St. Louis, Vinny Lecavalier and Brad Richards. Again Lundqvist is good but not that good. This scenario could also possibly lead to a rematch of the 2006 quarterfinal betwen the Bolts and Sens. But there is where I worry as the Lightning have always had problems against Ottawa.

Now I know there are other possibilities for the next round, but I didn't want to get bogged down in everything. Chances are the actual second round will look nothing like what I've written here, so it probably doesn't even matter anyway.

Ducks' May Suspended Three Games

April 18, 2007
ESPN.com / Associated Press

TORONTO — Anaheim Ducks forward Brad May was suspended for three games Wednesday for punching Minnesota Wild defenseman Kim Johnsson in the back of the head in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series.

May was given a match penalty and a game misconduct for attacking Johnsson in the final moments of Minnesota's 4-1 win Tuesday night. The Ducks lead the series 3-1.

Johnsson sustained a head injury, didn't make the trip to Anaheim and won't play in Game 5 on Thursday night.

May is out for the remainder of the series — no matter how long it goes.

Stanley Cup Playoffs, Night 8

Get out the brooms! What the Ducks couldn't do against the Wild last night, the Rangers did to the Thrashers. Up 3-0 on Atlanta, New York completed their first series sweep in 13 long years — at home, no less. There was lots more action around the NHL including three 2-1 series. Who took a 3-1 lead and who tied things up? Find out below.

Rangers 4, Thrashers 2
Rangers win series 4-0
The Thrashers are done! Keith Tkachuk gave Atlanta their first lead (ever!) and then Michal Rozsival answered 79 seconds later. Greg de Vries gave the Thrash the lead again only to have it erased by Brendan Shanahan. Matt Cullen scored the game-winner and Jaromir Jagr scored an empty-netter in the final two minutes to secure the series victory and make the Rangers the first team to going to the second round of the playoffs. Game 3: Rangers 7, Thrashers 0 / Game 2: Rangers 2, Thrashers 1 / Game 1: Rangers 4, Thrashers 3

Devils 4, Lightning 3, 1OT
Series tied 2-2
Scott Gomez killed my dreams of a 3-1 Lightning series lead. Down 3-1 in the game at one point, the Lightning came back to tie it 3-3 on a Vinny Lecavalier goal. He needs one more to tie Zach Parise, who led New Jersey with 31 goals this season and now leads the league in the playoffs with six. His second tonight came on the power play. Eric Perrin and Martin St. Louis had Tampa Bay's other goals. I donned the black tonight but it didn't help. I listened to Dave Mishkin and Phil Esposito call the game on the radio online. By the way, the Lightning have scored exactly three goals in every game of this series. Game 3: Lightning 3, Devils 2 / Game 2: Lightning 3, Devils 2 / Game 3: Devils 5, Lightning 3

Sabres 4, Islanders 2
Sabres lead series 3-1
Boy, is Rick DiPietro kicking himself. I know he'd like to have a couple of those goals back. The Isles took the first lead of the game on a Jason Blake goal but that was the last time they'd have the lead. Chris Drury scored a pair for Buffalo, including the game-winner. So it's panic time for New York. If the Islanders can't win when the series shifts back to Buffalo, their season is over. Versus. HD. Game 3: Sabres 3, Islanders 2 / Game 2: Islanders 3, Sabres 2 / Game 1: Sabres 4, Islanders 1

Sharks 3, Predators 2
Sharks lead series 3-1
Milan Michalek gave San Jose the lead three minutes into this game and they never lost it. A minute into period two, rookie Joe Pavelski made it a two goal lead but Jason Arnott quickly put the Preds back within one. Michalek got his second of the night to put the Sharks up by two again with what ended up as the game-winning goal. Nashville was desperate in the final minutes, pulling Tomas Vokoun for a 6-on-4 advantage during a power play. It paid off with one goal by Scott Hartnell but that was as close as the Predators would get in this game. They head back home now and will try to avoid elimination. Dave Strader and John Vanbiesbrouck had the call on Versus in hi-def. Game 3: Sharks 3, Predators 1 / Game 2: Predators 5, Sharks 2 / Game 1: Sharks 5, Predators 4, 2OT

Photos: ESPN.com, CBS Sportsline.com

Brodeur Bummed

There were no pictures of pucks behind Brodeur from the last game, so we'll have to settle for this one tonight. As I write this, I'm celebrating Vinny's goal that ties the score at 3!

Holmqvist Stealing Show From Brodeur In Lightning-Devils Series

April 18, 2007
ESPN.com / Associated Press

TAMPA, Fla. — Surrounded by a pack of reporters in the Tampa Bay Lightning locker room, goalie Johan Holmqvist conceded that he enjoys the attention that comes with being in the NHL playoffs.

"This is what you play the whole year for," the 28-year-old native of Sweden said. "When the media comes around, it's a bonus."

The way he's playing in his first postseason series, Holmqvist may have to get used to it. Goaltending was expected to be the difference in his team's first-round matchup against New Jersey, however most people gave the edge to the Devils because of Martin Brodeur.

But while Holmqvist has rebounded from a shaky performance in a Game 1 loss to help Tampa Bay take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference series, Brodeur has allowed nine goals in the three games.

Holmqvist stopped 30 shots in Tampa Bay's 3-2 victory Monday night, and the seventh-seeded Lightning can push the second-seeded Devils to the brink of elimination by winning Game 4 Wednesday night.

"Everybody has to step up their game including me," Brodeur said. "We're right there. It's just a question of getting ourselves believing that we can do it."

The Lightning's success against Brodeur, a three-time Stanley Cup champion who entered the series with a 1.89 goals-against average in 153 career playoff games, isn't a total surprise. After all, Tampa Bay won three of four regular-season meetings and have a potent offense led by 100-point scorers Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St. Louis.

But Holmqvist's inexperience was considered a liability. He entered with just 52 career regular-season games under his belt, 48 of them this season — his first with the Lightning after spending parts of three with the New York Rangers.

Instead of pointing fingers after the postseason novice allowed five goals on 24 shots in Game 1, the Lightning rallied around Holmqvist and encouraged him to relax and simply play his game.

"We help each other," he said. "I was a little bit too anxious, too nervous, and I didn't go out and do what I was supposed to do. They were just pushing me to go out there and have fun and enjoy it. This is a great time to play hockey."

Holmqvist responded by stopping 34 shots to win Game 2 at New Jersey, then stonewalled the media when he didn't make himself available for interviews in the locker room.

Turns out that was coach John Tortorella's idea. After hearing from the NHL office on the subject, the Lightning have provided access to the goaltender.

"I'm the one who didn't want him talking to you numbskulls. It wasn't him, so I don't want him looked at in the wrong way," Tortorella said before Game 3.

"He needs the experience dealing with (reporters). Every goalie does. But in my mind, I wanted him to get his feet wet a little bit and worry about getting himself back in this series."

Mission accomplished.

Still, both teams stress that it's far from over. New Jersey can regain home-ice advantage by winning Game 4.

And, the Devils do still have Brodeur, one of the most successful playoff goalies in league history.

"I never worry about Marty Brodeur," New Jersey coach Lou Lamoriello said. "Never have. Never will."

Brodeur, who's 7-10 in the playoffs since winning the 2003 Stanley Cup, expects to play better. At the same time, his teammates have to find a way to convert more opportunities against Holmqvist.

"He's giving us chances," Brodeur said. "He's giving us the puck back on rebounds. ... We've just got to bury it more."

———

I like how the media refer themselves as "numbskulls" via the Torts quote. They could have changed it with brackets. I'm a little surprised. Anyway, big game tonight. I'll be wearing my black, of course. Wish I could be there.

Photos: CBS Sportsline.com

Something Fun: The Sequel

Lego Crashing: Overtime on Vimeo
This is the sequel to the first Lego Crashing video. I suggest you watch them in order. Not that they'll make any more sense... but you know what I mean.

Stanley Cup Playoffs, Night 7

Well, we're a week into this sucker and I'm settling in quite nicely. It was a busy night. The busiest one yet — with five games! The only team set up for the series win was Anaheim but the Wild have too much heart to be swept. I may as well say it. It was a wild night! All over!

Rangers 7, Thrashers 0
Rangers lead series 3-0
Pardon me, but what a fucking blowout! This is supposed to be the playoffs. How on earth did the Thrashers manage to win the Southeast Division?! The way they played tonight was hideous. Worse than the Flames in Game 2 of their series. Anyway, the Rangers are now poised to complete a sweep at home. Michael Nylander was undoubtedly the star of this game, being the first Ranger to score a playoff hat trick since Wayne Gretzky in 1997. I should also note that rookie Ryan Callahan scored his first and second career playoff goals in the second period. Atlanta has yet to take the lead at any point in this series and things don't seem to be getting much better. Game 2: Rangers 2, Thrashers 1 / Game 1: Rangers 4, Thrashers 3

Senators 2, Penguins 1
Senators lead series 3-1
Ottawa took the early lead on a crazy-bounce score by Jason Spezza. Then Jordan Staal scored his third goal of the series in the second period. Aside from Anton Volchenkov's game-winning goal for the Senators, there wasn't much action in this game. But a noteworthy fact is that the Sens kept Sidney Crosby completely off the scoresheet for the first time in the series and now go back to Ottawa with a chance at closing out the series. Versus had the game in HD for me and many others to watch. Game 3: Senators 3, Penguins 2 / Game 2: Penguins 4, Senators 3 / Game 1: Senators 6, Penguins 3

Canucks 2, Stars 1
Canucks lead series 3-1
Well in the last two games these teams have fallen back into their old ways. Ending games with a score of 2-1. Mattias Ohlund gave Vancouver the lead almost halfway through the third period. Darryl Sydor followed up to tie the game but Trevor Linden's goal came exactly two minutes later and ultimately became the game-winner. The Canucks can wrap things up back in Vancouver. Game 3: Canucks 2, Stars 1, 1OT / Game 2: Stars 2, Canucks 0 / Game 3: Canucks 5, Stars 4, 4OT

Wild 4, Ducks 1
Ducks lead series 3-1
It looks like the Wild didn't want their season to end quite yet. With the man advantage, Chris Pronger gave Anaheim a 1-0 lead six minutes into the second period but Pierre-Marc Bouchard answered with two minutes left in the period to tie it up. It was Marian Gaborik who gave the Wild the 2-1 lead on the power play three minutes into the third. Then at the midway point of that final period, Minnesota proved to everyone they still deserved to be in the postseason by scoring twice the span of 77 seconds. Brian Rolston and Mark Parrish notched the insurance goals. That must have been an exciting game to watch, especially if you live in Minnesota. Game 3: Ducks 2, Wild 1 / Game 2: Ducks 3, Wild 2 / Game 1: Ducks 2, Wild 1

Flames 3, Red Wings 2
Red Wings lead series 2-1
The Saddledome crowd seemed to have reinvigorated their hometown club. The Flames' Matthew Lombardi scored the first goal of the game for the Calgary in the middle of the second period. It was followed two minutes later by a Kris Draper tally to tie it. Then Draper scored again 39 seconds into the third to give Detroit the lead. But it wouldn't last long as Mark Giordano scored his first career playoff goal. In the end, it was a Jarome Iginla snapshot that spelled victory for the Flames as they managed to hold off the Red Wings until the end. Versus carried the CBC telecast. Game 2: Red Wings 3, Flames 1 / Game 1: Red Wings 4, Flames 1

And finally, you can file this under the category of things you don't see everyday. With 10 seconds to go in the second period of the Detroit/Calgary game, a Red Wing player (can't remember who) slapped the puck down the ice only to have it hit a pane of glass behind the goal net just right. The glass shattered in place and the officials opted to go to an early intermission and allow the pane to be replaced during the break. The final 10 seconds of the period were played after the intermission, followed by the third period. Odd.

Photos: ESPN.com, CBS Sportsline.com

Something Fun

Lego Crashing on Vimeo
I made a silly video the other day. You might get a laugh out of it. Leave a comment to let me know what you think.

Sheer Joy!

My Bolts have the lead in the series! I'm exhibiting my joy through the face of Vinny Prospal (the man behind tonight's game-winning goal).

Stanley Cup Playoffs, Night 6

Tonight was a night of swing games and as of now, there are no tied series. It was an exciting night of hockey in which we saw just how evenly matched most of these first-round playoff series are. I'm a little surprised no one went into overtime.

Yesterday, John at Boltsmag suggested a "blackout" to answer the league-wide, overdone "whiteout" for those of you going to tonight's game at the St. Pete Times Forum. I thought it was a cool idea and even though I couldn't be at the game tonight, I still wore black in support of my Bolts. And I think it worked.

Lightning 3, Devils 2
Lightning lead series 2-1
"Boy, that's a big goal!" said Phil Esposito after Vinny Prospal scored the game-winning goal for the Bolts with just six minutes to go in the game. The Lightning got an early 1-0 lead on a Vinny Lecavalier power play goal. John Madden tied things up with just minutes left in the middle period. And after Brad Richards scored at 1:09 of the third, Zach Parise tied the game. I do not like him. But he and Vinny are tied for the lead in goals with four each in this series. By the way, I got my hopes up prematurely. That free Center Ice channel went away. There was no Lightning hockey on my TV tonight. Online radio only. Game 2: Lightning 3, Devils 2 / Game 1: Devils 5, Lightning 3

Sabres 3, Islanders 2
Sabres lead series 2-1
I was really hoping for an overtime session for this game. Early in the second period, the Sabres jumped out to a 1-0 lead. Then after getting a disallowed goal overruled, Buffalo had a two-goal lead. The Isles answered quickly to get back within one. But then Daniel Briere put the Sabres back by two on the power play. Then with seven seconds left in period two, Ryan Smyth gave hope to the Islander faithful in the building. But it wasn't meant to be after a quiet third period. The game was on Versus. In hi-def. I loved it. Game 2: Islanders 3, Sabres 2 / Game 1: Sabres 4, Islanders 1

Sharks 3, Predators 1
Sharks lead series 2-1
After getting the early lead, things only went downhill for the Predators. The Sharks scored a pair of unanswered goals for the 2-1 lead in the game. Ryan Suter's goal with eight minutes left in the first period was the first time in this series that Nashville scored first. (How many times did I say "first" in that sentence?) Ultimately Patrick Marleau gave San Jose the two-goal pad in the last five minutes of the game to seal the deal. The game was available in Versus HD and watched by yours truly. Game 2: Predators 5, Sharks 2 / Game 1: Sharks 5, Predators 4, 2OT

Photos: ESPN.com, CBS Sportsline.com

Sharks Shoulder Mystery

Does anyone know what the "WAS" is for on the Sharks' left shoulder logo? I noticed it on their jersey tonight and I couldn't figure out what its significance was. If you know, please comment. Thanks!

Television Note

I know I said Friday to expect a bunch of television posts this week about pilots that are in production at the networks. But obviously I've been a little bogged down with hockey. I'll get to it eventually, just consider it postponed. For right now, enjoy some awesome playoff hockey.

Lighting Brodeur's Lamp

I think I'm just going to make a running series out of photos like this. They just ease my mind and make me feel good. Once again, I'm hoping to see more just like it tonight.

Playoff Predictions, Update 1

All right. Everyone has at least two games behind them now so I felt it was time for a regular check-up on how my predictions are faring. I'll do it again after everyone's got four games and then once more at the end of the round.

Here's how it works. I'm listing game results followed by my original prediction. Then I'll decide what the status is of that prediction, whether things are looking up for it or not. Then I'll cast a second opinion (that in no way cancels out my original predictions).

Conference Quarterfinals

Sabres & Islanders
Series tied 1-1
Game 1: Sabres 4, Islanders 1
Game 2: Islanders 3, Sabres 2
My Initial Diagnosis: Sabres in 5
Status: Stable. Things can still work out for me. But the Islanders are going to have to play a lot worse and probably lose Rick DiPietro. Do you imagine Buffalo winning the next three straight? I don't.
Second Opinion: Sabres in 6

Devils & Lightning
Series tied 1-1
Game 1: Devils 5, Lightning 3
Game 2: Lightning 3, Devils 2
My Initial Diagnosis: Lightning in 6
Status: Stable. Things are still looking up for my Bolts. I'm sticking with my original prediction.

Thrashers & Rangers
Rangers lead series 2-0
Game 1: Rangers 4, Thrashers 3
Game 2: Rangers 2, Thrashers 1
My Initial Diagnosis: Thrashers in 7
Status: Stable. With the way the Rangers have been playing, I might be tempted to change my vote, but I'm going to stick with Atlanta. I think they have the experience needed to win the series.

Senators & Penguins
Senators lead series 2-1
Game 1: Senators 6, Penguins 3
Game 2: Penguins 4, Senators 3
Game 3: Senators 4, Penguins 2
My Initial Diagnosis: Penguins in 5
Status: Deceased. With the Sens' second win of the series, it's safe to say my prediction for this series did not pan out.
Second Opinion: Senators in 6

Red Wings & Flames
Red Wings lead series 2-0
Game 1: Red Wings 4, Flames 1
Game 2: Red Wings 3, Flames 1
My Initial Diagnosis: Red Wings in 4
Status: Stable. Things are looking up for the Wings and my prediction. I may be an "idiot" but not about this series. The Flames really need to step up if they're going to have a shot at the next round.

Ducks & Wild
Ducks lead series 3-0
Game 1: Ducks 2, Wild 1
Game 2: Ducks 3, Wild 2
Game 3: Ducks 2, Wild 1
My Initial Diagnosis: Wild in 7
Status: Critical. For my prediction to come true, the Wild are going to have to win the next four straight and complete and upset of pretty massive proportions. The losses have only been by one goal each and they haven't really been outplayed by Anaheim, but I just don't see it happening for them.
Second Opinion: Ducks in 5

Canuck & Stars
Canucks lead series 2-1
Game 1: Canucks 5, Stars 4, 4OT
Game 2: Stars 2, Canucks 0
Game 3: Canucks 2, Stars 1, 1OT
My Initial Diagnosis: Canucks in 6
Status: Stable. It's looking good but for some reason I've been finding myself rooting for the Stars but I still think the Canucks will take this series.

Predators & Sharks
Series tied 1-1
Game 1: Sharks 5, Predators 4, 2OT
Game 2: Predators 5, Sharks 2
My Initial Diagnosis: Predators in 6
Status: Stable. I'll allow for one more San Jose victory but I'm going with the Predators all the way (that is, unless the Lightning return to the finals, in which case you already know who I'm going for then).

Stanley Cup Playoffs, Night 5

Hockey ran for nearly 12 hours today. It was a beautiful thing. The Red Wings and Flames kicked things off at 1 PM and the Canucks took the Stars to overtime and won at nearly 1 AM. It sure kept me happy. Except for the fact that my predictions are flying out the window. Below you'll find today's results.

Red Wings 3, Flames 1
Red Wings lead series 2-0
I really need to go grab that comment reply on the NBC Sports message boards. The guy called me an idiot for suggesting that the Flames might get swept. If they keep playing the way they have been, not only is a sweep possible, but its likely. The game started very badly for the Flames but they seemed to have regained their composure during the second period. They had some good moments, but this one was all Detroit. Want to know how much? The shots were 51-15, Wings. I watched the game on NBC in hi-def as called by Mike Emrick and Eddie Olczyk and it looked like Calgary is ready to call it a season. Game 1: Red Wings 4, Flames 1

Senators 4, Penguins 2
Senators lead series 2-1
Gary Roberts stuffed the puck in the net 52 seconds into the game to give Pittsburgh the early lead. But the Sens tied the game with two minutes to go in the first and tallied three goals in the second period, including a pair from captain Daniel Alfredsson. Then, before the game ended Sidney Crosby managed to score his third goal in as many games. The kid is pretty good. The game was available in bewitching HD on Versus and I enjoyed it very much. I'm a little annoyed the Pens lost though, since I picked them to win in 5. Game 2: Penguins 4, Senators 3 / Game 1: Senators 6, Penguins 3

Ducks 2, Wild 1
Ducks lead series 3-0
Andy McDonald and Rob Niedermayer got goals for Anaheim and it looked like the Ducks would walk away with a 2-0 win. That was until, with 38 seconds left in the game, Petteri Nummelin gave Minnesota a glimmer of hope by extinguishing Ilya Bryzgalov's shutout bid. It wasn't meant to be, though, as the Ducks held off the Wild and took a 3-0 stranglehold on the series. Game 2: Ducks 3, Wild 2 / Game 1: Ducks 2, Wild 1

Canucks 2, Stars 1, 1OT
Canucks lead series 2-1
Luckily, tonight's overtime didn't run quite as late as it did in Game 1. Stu Barnes gave Dallas the lead in the second period on the power play and Jan Bulis tied the game five minutes into the third. It was Taylor Pyatt who decided the game for Vancouver almost eight minutes into overtime. Even though I picked the Canucks to win this series, for some reason I find myself rooting on the Stars. I don't quite know what that is yet. Versus carried the CBC feed tonight so naturally, I watched it. Game 2: Stars 2, Canucks 0 / Game 1: Canucks 5, Stars 4, 4OT

One more quick note. With all teams having now played at least two games, I'm going to take a look at where my predictions stand so far. Expect to see that post sometime early tomorrow.

Photos: ESPN.com, CBS Sportsline.com

Senators' Eaves Leaves Ice On Stretcher

April 15, 2007
NHL.com / Associated Press

PITTSBURGH — Ottawa Senators forward Patrick Eaves was taken off the ice on a stretcher after being leveled by Colby Armstrong midway through the second period of Sunday's playoff game against Pittsburgh.

Eaves was carrying the puck around the net in the Pittsburgh end with Penguins defenseman Josef Melichar tugging at him when Armstrong came from the opposite direction and put a shoulder hit on him.

Eaves appeared to be knocked unconscious on the play, but was seen talking and moving his hands while he was being taken off the ice. No penalty was called, but the Senators' Dean McAmmond and the Penguins' Maxime Talbot fought immediately afterward.

The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation reported Eaves had movement in all his extremities, and was diagnosed with a concussion.

Armstrong was involved in a similar play on Oct. 14. Carolina forward Trevor Letowski was knocked unconscious and sustained a concussion when Armstrong put a blind side hit on him in the Hurricanes' end.

Letowski, who also sustained facial cuts, missed nine games because of the concussion.

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That was pretty scary to watch. I wish I had a photo I could post of Colby Armstrong's face as they wheeled Eaves off the ice. He looked like he was going to puke. Good thing Eaves was all right.

Want To Laugh?

I know it's been all hockey all the time here lately, so let's take a quick break.

If you can watch this video and not wither into hysterics, then you probably do not have a soul. To tell you what it's about would spoil the surprise, so I'll just suffice to say that it's a short titled "The Landlord" and features Will Ferrell.

That's all you need to know. Now go and watch!